DIY Vanity Chair Seat Cushion

I am so behind in my home projects. The last crafty/DIY project I did was reupholstering my office chair which you can read about here. For my birthday my mom bought me a beautiful vanity chair for my bathroom. It needed a seat cushion though. So, I knew that I had to reupholster my office chair and decided to just buy some extra fabric. Well, my birthday was six months ago! I woke up with a migraine today and was in bed for a good part of the day. Once I drugged myself enough I got up and decided to work on my chair since I did not have to work. Working full time really does not allow me any extra time for this sort of thing...so I was happy to be able to finish this project.

I am no expert in upholstering. This required no sewing so, I knew that it was not going to be that hard. The hardest part would be the round shape of the seat. Also, I chose a chevron pattern and needed to make sure that stayed straight. Here is a little beginners try at adding a round seat cushion to a vanity seat. Enjoy!

Before: Not so comfy

My dad cut out a round wooded seat..great having a Carpenter for a Dad!

Used foam, batting, my upholstery fabric(found at Joann's) and a staple gun.

Pretty basic: I cut out the foam with a serrated knife.

 Then added the batting and started to stretch and staple.

In order to prevent getting too many folds I tried to stretch the batting as much as possible. The same process was done with the fabric. You want to stretch and pull as much as possible without distorting the pattern of the fabric.

This is how it looks with just the batting. A few folds but not too bad for this beginner:)

Found this cute model!

Taadaa! The seat is finished. It only took about 20 minutes tops!

Ahhhh...look at all that comfiness!

Now I have a place to sit while I do my makeup!

200th Post!!!! Summer Lovin: Natural Products

***Update-The facial cleanser and moisturizer did end up bothering my sensitive skin. I was so bummed. I get a million little bumps all over my chin when something irritates my skin and that happened:(. Not sure if it was the cleanser or the moisturizer or both??? But wanted to leave an update. I am putting in another Vitacost order right now, so I may try another cleanser...but I really just think my face loves Olay!

This is my 200th blog post!!! I am so excited to write more this year. I am on track...being that this is my third post this week!

The last few months I have tried to introduce more natural products into my home. Both in cleaning products and beauty/personal products. In this post I am going to share some of my beauty/personal natural products that I have used and love. I do have some cleaning products I want to share with you too, but there are a few that I have yet to use that I purchased and want to include those. So, for now I will share with you a few natural products I have purchased and am loving.

I have yet to find any DIY natural recipes that really do anything spectacular. So, I was glad to find that these few products are either 100% natural or mostly natural and they work great! I follow a girl on YouTube also named Summer. She turned me onto Vitacost. If you are not familiar with Vitacost (this is my referral link, you can get 10.00/30.00 purchase, but don't feel like you have to use it) I highly recommend you check it out . They have so many natural products ranging from cleaning products to vitamins to beauty products. I was glad to hear that Summer highly recommended this first product by Andalou.It is the Meyer Lemon Creamy Cleanser. I was happy with my current facial cleanser by Olay and have used it for years. I was not happy though with all the added junk thrown in. I was a little afraid to switch as my skin is so use to the Olay cleanser and usually doesn't like change. I was pleasantly surprised that I had no reaction and my skin loved it! The lemon smell is so yummy. Being that it is natural I was tempted to eat it! I also loved the fact that it was brightening because of the lemon. I have only used it a few times but I really like it so far. It is a little more pricey($8.69) than my Olay but only by like $3.00. It is an ounce smaller as well. Natural products do tend to be more expensive and I am ok with that. It is a non GMO product, gluten free, paraben free(super important), sulfate free, vegetarian and cruelty free. I am new to the whole natural living, so I am learning the importance of not having these items in my products. As I learn more I will be sure to share!

Next is another item Summer recommended (thanks girl). It is a moisturizer by derma e. It is a refining vitamin A wrinkle cream. I don't have wrinkles yet...but I do have fine lines and vitamin A will definitely help with that. I tend to have dry skin, but I don't like a super thick moisturizer. They usually get a bit oily. So, when I opened this jar of moisturizer up I was so happy to see it was the perfect consistency. Think thick whipped cream. It also smells like candy...again tempted to eat my face products!!! This product is 100% vegan, cruelty free(kind of wondering how many of my products are not) and paraben free. Besides the vitamin A it also contains Safflower oil, sunflower oil, vitamin E, avocado oil and soybean oil. It did have a few ingredients that I have no idea what they are but that doesn't mean they are not natural. For instance, vitamin E is Tocopheryl Acelate! I will definitely be buying this again. It is 4 ounces and was $9.62. Again, this is more pricey, but it is natural and fighting my wrinkles, that my friends is priceless!

The next few products are less exciting but I am super happy I bought them. First, this is a product I have used for about 6 months. It is the Dickinson's Original Witch Hazel. It is 100% all natural. I use this as my toner and it works wonders. My skin loves it as it is very gentle. This is great for all skin types. It is oil-free and also it is non-drying. So, a win-win for dry or oily skin. I just apply it to my face with a cotton round after I have cleaned my face and it gets rid of anything that my cleanser did not take off. Toner is also meant to balance your skin. It is just a great natural product. I got my 16 oz bottle at Vons. It actually had a try me for free coupon on it so I paid nada for it!!! I believe it was not too expensive??? I will leave links to where you can purchase everything down below.

Last up is toothpaste! Ooooohh so exciting. I heard about this from Summer as well. She uses the Spry brand for herself as well as her children. It has no sugar(why does toothpaste have sugar in it??? Had no idea!!!) It does contain Xylitol(this is a natural sweetener). Again still learning about all this natural business...but I read Xylitol is great at adding minerals back into your teeth. This toothpaste also has no fluoride.Again, not an expert but fluoride is not good for you. I just had the dentist put a fluoride treatment on Shane's teeth too! Oh well, I am sure the dentist has a good reason as to why we need it??? Shane's toothpaste is a gel. It is safe for 3 months and up. It is all-natural and safe to swallow. He likes the taste(which is original). It is 2 ounces and is 4.39. My toothpaste is the peppermint one and is 4 oz for 3.96. With Vitacost you do have to pay shipping. I also buy cleaning products and vitamins through their site so I like to make one big order and get the free shipping. It usually comes in 1-2 days.

That concludes my natural beauty/personal products that I am loving right now. Please let me know of items you love. Before I posted this blog I wanted to try one more DIY Pinterest inspired treatment. You may have seen it. It claims to wipe out any dead skin from your feet. You mix a mixture of warm water, mouthwash and vinegar and place your feet in it for 10 minutes. So while I worked I used a small tub and made the mixture. I had to triple it to make it touch half way up my feet. It started to make my feet itch, which I thought that meant it was doing its magic...but no. After 10 minutes I had clean... vinegar smelling feet. No dead skin came off. Such a bummer. I was really hoping it would work because my feed are in need of some pampering.

 

Thanks for reading my 200th post! I appreciate everyone who takes the time to read my posts.

Products mentioned:
Andalou Meyer Lemon Creamy Cleanser
derma e Vitamin A Cream
Dickinson's Original Witch Hazel this is the Amazon link. It is over 8.00 which seems high, but I can't say for sure what the price would be at a grocery store or drugstore.
Spry Peppermint Toothpaste
Spry Original Kids Toothpaste

Summer Lovin: Top 5 Interior Designers

What? Another blog post? Can you believe it? I can't, but I am trying hard to stick to my New Year Resolutions, so here you go! Yesterday, I wrote about finding your design style. I mentioned looking through magazines and online, but another great way is to follow Interior Designers that have a similar style.

I came up with a list of my top 5 Interior Designers. I have been stalking following these designers for years. They each have their own unique style that I really appreciate. There were many other honorable mentions but these ladies(yes, all ladies) are my faves!

Up first is a designer who started it all. She is the reason I am addicted to HGTV. Her name is Candice Olson. If you have not watched her shows (Divine Design and Candice Tells All) or read her books... stop what you are doing now and watch/read them and them come back and read this post. She is a designer in Canada(which most of my favorites come from there). Her design style tends to be more on the Modern side..but like many others she can do it all. I love her style because she always throws in some glamour. She has her own wallpaper line that is simply stunning. I went into a shop last year where they had her wallpaper book and I sat down and drooled over each sheet of wallpaper. I will have wallpaper very soon in my home! She always incorporates so many textures into her design. She is also very talented at sketching her room designs. Being able to envision your design is a great talent and she is definitely a pro at it.

 

Next, is another designer I have followed for years and saw first on HGTV. Her name is Sarah Richardson. She has a few shows as well on HGTV (Sarah 101, Design Inc and Sarah's House). I love her personality. She is so down to earth, much like Candice. She is also in Canada. Her style is more Farmhouse/Country. You may think Country is old fashioned and picture chickens and gingham...but her country is so beautiful. I love her use of old architectural pieces. While Candice uses mostly new products, Sarah uses many antique pieces. There is nothing I love more than to watch her go shopping, with her sidekick, Tommy,. Together they find the most unique pieces. She also has a modern side. She has designed some beautiful bathrooms! I can't say enough about her. She is just the best! P.S. I joined a live chat once with her and she talked to me twice...EEKKKK!!!!

 

Sabrina Soto is someone you probably have heard of. She is a home style expert for Target and has really stepped up Target's Home Decor. She is a young designer, based in New York. She does it all. If you watch her show The High/Low project, you will see her getting her hands dirty and building things. The premise behind her show is to design a high end look for her clients and then reproduce that look for whatever her clients' budget is. She always does a wonderful job and it is hard to find any differences between the high and low look. She also has a guy helping her, named Chris. Oh my word...if I had an assistant I would want him. He can build ANYTHING. He is so talented. Together they make pure design gold! P.S. She responded to me on Facebook...lol...it's the little things...to me those were big deals talking with my favorite designers.

 

Another oldie but goodie is the beautiful, Genevieve Gorder. Again, have watched her shows forever. She is the host of "Dear Genevieve' and wow...she is amazing. Her style is really influenced by her travels. She designs the most beautiful Moroccan and Turkish Baths! Her tile choices alone make her one of the best. I love all the different textures and patterns she introduces. She lives in NY and she uses all that town has to offer. I love seeing her go to these small shops and using local resources for her design jobs. Love...love...love her.

 

Last, but not least, is Emily Henderson. Oh my goodness she is a quirky...sweet thang! I first saw her on my favorite show "Design Star". She won and soon after got her own show: "Secrets from a Stylist". She is an amazing stylist. The way she groups items is such a talent. She is always on the search for unique items. You can find her searching Craigslist, Estate Sales and Flea Markets. Another girl I would love to go shopping with. Seriously, if I could just follow one of these ladies around I could die happy. Emily, just had a baby boy and moved into a new home. She has a wonderful blog that she keeps up to date with her latest design jobs. She uses some MCM pieces which really make me happy! Oh, and I believe she lives in L.A.

There are so many more designers that I could list. These are my favorites and have taught me so much. I also follow many designers who may not have their own tv shows but are still super talented. I will leave a link to their blogs below. They range from Farmhouse to Modern and everything in between. Like I said in my last post. I love all design, making my home beautiful for my family brings me joy. Learning from these designers also brings me a ton of happiness. Make sure to check them out and let me know who you love! I can always use more designer love in my life:).

Honorable Mentions:
Layla: http://theletteredcottage.net/
Kirsten: http://6thstreetdesignschool.blogspot.com/
Caitlin: http://caitlinwilson.com/blog/
Chris http://chriskauffman.blogspot.com/
Emily: http://emilyaclark.com/
Emily: http://jonesdesigncompany.com/
Sarah: http://sarahmdorseydesigns.blogspot.com/

Design for Beginners

If y'all didn't know I love interior design! I am in no way a professional, but I am constantly stalking my favorite designers on their blogs or reading their books to gain more knowledge. I was going to go to school back when I was preggo with Shane, but they ended up canceling the class because of lack of interest. I have a feeling if they offered it now there would be more than enough interest. I still from time to time look to see if they are offering the course. In the meantime I try to cram in as much design goodness as I can. Looking through magazines is a classic way to develop your eye for design. Back before Pinterest, I use to tear out magazine pages and store them in a binder. Now most of the images are available online.  

I thought it would be fun to talk about a few ways you can sharpen your design skills. First off, you need to know your style. You don't have to have just one. I have many and they change year to year. My home is Mid Century Modern. I have always loved antiques and vintage furniture but I was not an expert on this style. Over the past six months I have just fallen in love. There are even different design styles within Mid Century Modern design. For instance, there is a more funky and vibrant style called "Atomic". I am not super into bright colors so this style scares me a bit. I like the more muted tones MCM design offers. I love the warm wood tones of teak wood and the tapered legs that many MCM pieces boast.

So, how do you figure out your design taste? You probably have a pretty good sense already. There are many different styles but most of those fall into these categories: Modern, Contemporary, Traditional,Transitional and Eclectic.

A great way to figure it out if you are completely lost is to take a quiz. There are so many, but HGTV has a good one http://my.hgtv.com/style-finder/stylefinder.esi. I like this quiz because it has many options to choose from(except I didn't like any of the kitchens!). I took it and surprise my style is:

Your style is Mid-Century Mod

Open, airy, organic spaces, all about form and function. Sophisticated and sleek yet approachable, alluring. My home is Mid-Century Modern.
   

Now, before when I took this, years ago, it is was Modern Coastal. I like clean lines but not hard/sharp lines. I do not like contemporary design because it tends to be cold and has bright vibrant colors which I usually do not care for(unless in a child's room). I do like a clean simplified look which is more Modern...with a splash of vintage. I think that is why I feel in love with MCM because it is Modern and Vintage!

 

So.......what design style are you? I love all design....truly! Well, that is a lie...I despise Victorian...but I can appreciate the craftsmanship of a Victorian house. Once you have figured out your design style...start slipping through a magazine or search that design style on Pinterest. A few sites I highly recommend are HGTV and Houzz. They are filled with so much information. If you lean more towards warm colors and comfy furniture pieces you are most likely going to fall into one of the Traditional design styles like: Beach/Coastal or Farmhouse/Country/Rustic. If you like a more vibrant look with unique pieces you most likely will be more Contemporary or Eclectic. Some eclectic styles can even tend to be more of a world traveler look which can be Contemporary or traditional.

 

It may seem confusing but it really is about what you like. I have always had a wide variety in my home but Coastal pieces had a big presence in my home. My bathroom now is the only place you will see two lonely starfish that made the cut into my new favorite style of MCM.

 

Hope you gained a little more insight into the design world. Up next I will be talking about my favorite designers and share links to their blogs/websites!

 

 

Modern:Clean and Simple

Contemporary: Hard lines and splashes of color

Traditional: Warm and Comfy

Transitional: Mix of Traditional and Modern

Eclectic: Unique pieces/mix of patterns

 

2014 Resolutions!

 

I am an all in or nothing kind of gal. Mainly because I have no self control. So, if I choose to do something, I have to go all in or I have a hard time completing my goal. For example, when I decided to quit drinking Dr.Pepper I couldn't just say I would stop for a short time and then just drink a bit here and there. I had to stop drinking it....forever! I know for some that might seem crazy, but that is the only way for me. For now.

I also speak in definites. For example: I will never ever do that or I hate that. It is not a "I will try to not do that, or I will think about it, or I don't really care for that". Not really sure why I am wired this way but I like to speak the truth. "Maybes" are hard for me. That means there is a chance for a different outcome and I like to know right away what is going to happen. This may make no sense to some but those of you who are crazy  similar to me will get it.

So, when writing my 2014 resolutions, I like to make resolutions of things I will completely give up. It is hard for my brain to keep to something that will allow my lack of self-control to mess up. The ever so popular losing weight always makes my list. My losing weight resolution usually consists of completely eliminating something like sugar or bread. However, that usually has a very short run. Eliminating Dr.Pepper is the only thing I have conquered(so far it has been 1.5 years). Which is huge for me. It was my happy juice. I realized this "all in" mentality is not necessary a good thing. I became so depressed when I kept failing at not meeting my goals. Some lasted months and others only hours(like the sugar one). This year my resolutions are pretty lofty goals, but not too many require me to completely give up something.

I love the New Year. It means a fresh start. For me right after Christmas I start on the mission of getting my house organized during my usual Christmas vacation. This year I tackled Shane's room first and it took two days. TWO DAYS! After completing that mission I added another resolution to my list : stop buying so much stuff(particularly kid's meals...so over all those little toys that seem to find their way to the bottom of the toy box). But in all seriousness, I really want to focus on only bringing things into my home that I really need. I again found myself thinking about never buying anything that isn't necessary, but that would just be no fun! I definitely want to get a hold on the amount of stuff that comes into our home.

Another resolution was to get off Facebook. GASP!!! I know crazy, right. How will I go on not knowing everything someone did in a day or wonder what exactly someone's vague post meant!!! I love Facebook. I love reading everyone's posts. Seeing their pictures. Keeping up with old friends or those who have moved. I love all the pages I follow. But...there are a few things that have caused me to really dislike people. That made me sad. When people over share or you see a little more into someones life that you never really saw before, it can cause some dislike(hate) towards those people. So, it is not a "I am better than everyone and I am so righteous" decision, but a decision based on some bad thoughts on my part of some people. Also, people say things on social media or through email that they would not say to your face. Once that email is sent or that comment is posted you can't delete it(well you can but usually that other person already saw it). Sooooo, yeah, taking a break from FB. It is the best for my sanity and family.

I will however be trying to step up my blogging game. There are so many features that I do not know how to use. I would love to post more. I also want to learn how to write better. I have written about that so many times. It was on my 2013 resolution list. I am not the best at sentence structure and punctuation. It drives me crazy. I need to work on it. As I have mentioned before I love writing and it is my therapy. I can't write every day like some bloggers. I have to be inspired. I am excited to write more in 2014!

I always like to throw in a few Wild Card Resolutions:). They usually consist of learning something new. So this year I threw in: Sharpening my Culinary Skills and Learning a little French. Learning French will actually help with my Culinary Skills. There are so many great French Chefs and I love learning from them. I think they do the whole Culinary thing right! So, I don't expect to fluently learn French although that would be amazing...but I would love to be able to read some French and pick up some French cookbooks. Now, this has me wanting to go to France! Travel is always on my to do list and just never happens. We do have a few trips planned already for 2014, so maybe a trip to France will have to wait until 2015:) Au revoir!

What are your 2014 resolutions/goals? I would love to know!

Grace Abounding

Don't you love grace? I sure do! I need it daily. From others and God. It is something I don't give too freely though. I think the Christmas season brings the worst out of some and the best out of others. Just try going shopping any time after Thanksgiving. The Christmas spirit fills many. From the music to being able to enjoy a hot beverage, it fills many up with joy. Others do not have the joy inside of them, but rather the devil!  For example, Black Friday...need I say more.

I have to admit I have not had much grace to give this year. I have become a bit of a Scrooge. I went to a Christmas Party recently and I was so irritated with everyone...for no reason. I can not give you one(except I was taking some new herb that is suppose to help regulate my hormones...but instead it turned me into a fire breathing she-devil) so...there's that. I do have very bad mood swings. All hormonal. One day I love you and the next I would cut you...dead. I hate blaming it on hormones though. It is a part of it..but I think it is also a heart issue. More specific a grace issue. I found myself not giving grace, but wanting it in return. How selfish and hypocritical. 

I love the song that has the line: "If grace is an ocean, we're all sinking". The song is talking about how much God loves us.His grace is overflowing. There is never a lack of grace. In my life though my grace bank was empty. I was being stingy. I was looking for a grace handout, but not willing to return the favor. When I pray I always end it with: "Thank you for your love, grace and mercy". Love, grace and mercy are my favorite things to receive. Being the Christmas season I started to reflect on all the gifts God has given me.I truly am blessed. I have received so much and have not handed out too many gifts back in return.

Each new year I try to take a look at the past year and see what I need to work on. So, for 2014 I am working on showing more grace. I recently was able to put grace to work. I was going to an event where I had to see someone I have had no grace for. In fact I hated that person and they had no idea! It was just minutes before I had to leave for the event and I was hit by a thought(love when God does this). I decided to pour grace on this person. Not in a condescending way, but real grace. I decided that I had held onto the hate I felt toward this person and it was only effecting me. There was no reason for it. I arrived at the event and guess what I was sitting right next to this person(God, you are hilarious). This person was so sweet and guess what...so was I. I asked God to take away the bad thoughts about this person. This person had grown up and  I am sure not proud of the person they were. We caught up and had a great conversation. Grace abounding!

Another example of grace abounding in my life happened around the time of the previous story. Do you have a person in your life that you have be praying for...for years? I have one. Every time my Pastor asks if there is a person that needs prayer, this person pops up every time. I have a soft spot for this person, even though they fail time after time and make immature decisions. I pray for this persons' salvation. For God is the only one who is going to change them. I recently gave up praying for them though. We had a few arguments and I was just done! I became so angry. I had no grace to give this person. Finally, I had another thought, similar to the one before, that I just needed to let go. Not to let go of praying for this person, but to let go of the anger. This person needs to be shown love. They need to know that someone has their back. That despite all their faults and mistakes that someone loves them. This is what grace looks like. This is what God's love looks like. I have to say I am more joyful than ever. I love the Christmas season. I love it because it is a time of reflection about God's greatest gift, Jesus. At church we recently read through the Fruits of the Spirit...but before that we read through some qualities that were the opposite of the Fruit of the Spirit (Vegetables of the Spirit?? sorry that was horrible). Actually they were acts of our flesh. They included:sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions  and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like.(Galatians 5:19-21). Wow...this sounds like an episode of The Real Housewives! When we react to these acts of the flesh there is never a good outcome. But when we respond in love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,  gentleness and self-control we get a much better outcome!

Last week at church we also talked about The Ministry of Reconciliation. As my Pastor spoke I was like wow...this is for me! It was exactly what I was struggling with. The Ministry of Reconciliation, found in, 2 Corinthians 5:11-21, talks a lot about grace and humility. I liked that correlation between grace and humility. Because that is really what grace is all about. Being humble in front of someone who you may not feel deserved it. But in that humbleness you will receive grace and give it. It may not be immediate or it may never be given, but God sees and his grace is upon you.  I encourage you to think of someone who may have hurt you or you have any ill feelings toward and pray that God shows you a way to reconcile with them. Maybe it is a family member you will be seeing this Christmas. Show them grace. It may be the only time they see it. It is so hard to forgive someone, but the burden and ill thoughts you carry around are so much greater. I like being a cheerful person, far more than being a bitter, angry person.  Be in The Ministry of Reconciliation. Show abounding grace. After all, God sent His son, Jesus, to be born and then to die for our sins...so that we may have everlasting life. This is His greatest gift and one that was meant to be shared. When we share the love of Christ with others they take note and hopefully they too want that gift. 

Merry Christmas!

3:Our perfect Number

I have always wanted two kids. Seemed like a sensible number. I come from a family with three children. The Hubs from two. I think it is awesome that people have large families. A big family was never something I desired though. Once I saw how awesome it was to have our son, how could I just want one? Well truth is that is what God had planned for our little family. Sometimes, it doesn't make sense and other days I am totally at peace with it.

I am at the age in my life where all my friends are having babies. I can name about 10 friends who have had babies just in the last month. Babies are everywhere! My sister is due in a little less than two months. Which is good. I will get to love on a baby girl and then hand her back when she cries or poops. It is a glorious thing!

I think we all get that question after we get married of :"when are you going to have a baby?" Then once you have the baby it is: "when are you having your next child?" I am not the type to get upset with that question. It is only natural to expect a couple to have another child. What gets me going is the response back when I say we are only having one child. Here are just a few:

"What? But Shane will be so lonely"
"Only children are spoiled brats usually"
"Don't you like kids?"
"No, you have to have more...you will regret it"

I understand... really, I do. I would think some of these things too. But, that is the key..I would think them...LOL. People like to express their thoughts about how they think you should live your life. I hear it with people with multiple children. I have a friend with 3 boys and someone had to nerve to say to her: "oh, so were you trying for a girl". As if she just kept popping kids out hoping one would be a girl!

I came across this picture once and thought it was so funny and true

Each family is unique in their own ways. I have prayed and prayed about having only one child. Thankfully, God has given me a peace. Do I still question it? Yes. It is hard. I do think about Shane being lonely...not having siblings. I am very aware of him being spoiled. I try to make sure we do our best to not make him spoiled and to be a thankful child. It is easy to do though when you can give all of your attention to one child and you can spend all your money on one child. It is something I will always have to be aware of.

I have talked to many "only child" adults. Some say they loved it! Others hated it. So we take the risk. We make sure he has plenty of friends and family around that he never feels lonely. I think about when we are gone...who will he have? Sometimes, brothers and sisters never get along. They have their differences and probably wish they were an only child! It is a hard thing to decide but, for so many reasons...we will be a family of three,

What are those reasons??? I know you probably want to know. I am writing this also to be encouraging to those who only have one child and are struggling with it. I have searched high and low for some encouragement and it is not easy to come by. As I mentioned before, we always wanted two children and that was the plan before I had to spend my last month or two of my pregnancy in and out of the hospital. My doctor told me that if I wanted any more that I would have to lose weight. Well, yeah......that did not happen. In fact, I did the opposite. If I were to get pregnant at the weight I am now, I could risk the life of my baby and my own. I had such high blood pressure with Shane. I would most likely be put on bed rest and would not be able to care for Shane, as I should. I feel very guilty about not losing the weight and therefore not being able to have another child. It is my fault. But, I love my little family and am blessed to have one child. Some are not able to even have one and that is how I look at it. I was able to have a child with just a few hiccups at the end. I am blessed. Even though it isn't the "norm"...it is our norm.

Flea Market Finds

The Hubs and I had another wonderful day together at the Long Beach Flea Market last weekend. It really is so much fun when your husband is in on your treasure finding adventures. We had a few more small pieces we needed for living room before it was complete and we found them both from one vendor! I have been on a mission to find a cluster of orange grapes. You know the ones your Grandmother had(if you are my age). The ones that were sold at garage sales and thrift stores for a few dollars because no one wanted...just a few years ago. Yeah...those now are super duper expensive. Our colors in our living room are orange and green. So, I was so excited when I spotted this beautiful cluster of grapes:

 

We also spotted some brass and wood geese(I think they are geese???)! These guys have been on our radar since we moved in. Our walls are now complete with the addition of our new friends.

We usually have a pretty good idea of what we want when we go to these flea markets. Sometimes we purchase a few items that we did not intend on buying and are usually our favorites. The Hubs spotted the Zenith AM/FM radio below. The seller told us some cool info about the radio. He said the small triangles on the radio were the war stations. People would just turn the dial to the triangle and could be updated on the war. The Hubs and I used our ninja flea market bargaining skills to talk this guy down a bit. We have become pretty good at figuring out the whole flea market business. They always start out super high. We never act like we are super interested or they wont go down. We have found a few who are fair from the beginning but those are hard to come by.

The hat was a great deal for only 10.00. The lady who sold it to me was so sweet and said it was from the 40s. It is the start of my vintage hat collection. It has fur on it so I was sold. There were so many fur coats at the flea market I was in heaven. I want one soooooo bad. It just really isn't a necessity...especially in SoCal...so maybe one day. 

The last piece was a no brainer for us. First, it was sold to us by one of our favorite vendors. The owner always is super nice to us and gives us such great deals. All of his pieces are amazing. I wish I could be a picker. The thrill of it would never get old. Lucky for us he is close to us and delivered the beautiful credenza below to us. When he brought it I could not believe how perfect it fit in our room. The size and wood tone were perfect! I immediately had to style it. The picture in the frame most likely won't stay but, I loved the frame and it was only a few bucks at Goodwill. I have such a hard time not decorating everything in the room at once. I have learned with Mid Century Modern design it has to be a slow process. Each piece is so unique and takes time to find. The great part is MCM design is very minimalist so there are not a ton of pieces to buy. We are still on the hunt for a headboard, some night stands and lamps.

It was a great day with my man. Can't wait to go again!

Local Shop Love

Every year... around this time, my Mom, Sister and I go to a Holiday Open House put on by some local antique/gift shops. It is my kick off to the Christmas season. I always find so many treasures. In years past it was a combination of shops all around town. This year they were just a few shops in one area. They also used to provide a limo... taking the shoppers from one shop to the next. It was super fun! There are a few new shops that recently opened up in the same area so, I think there wasn't a need to have it open to all the shops who previously participated. Those were downtown and they ended up having a separate open house on another day. We honestly could not have fit in one more store so, it worked out for us. We first stopped at my newest fav- Embellished Nestings. It was filled with so many pretty serving pieces. I love glasses, plates and platters. If I had more room to show it off I would have more pieces. I really liked this store because I found a few Mid-Century Modern pieces! It is such a popular thing now. Which is a bit of a bummer because with fame comes a hefty price. However this shop had amazing prices on everything! Many times small shops really jack up their prices and it just isn't worth it to me to pay so much. I like to be the one to find treasures for a great deal and not pay someone else for looking. This shop was fairly priced on all their pieces. Their displays were all well done and the people who worked there were super helpful. I hope they are around for many years. I hate seeing cute shops like this go. I think with great prices and unique pieces they have a great future. Stop by soon if you are looking for some cute Christmas gifts! They are located on 3756 Elizabeth Street, Riverside, 92506.



This picture is from their facebook page which I linked above:). Isn't it beautiful?





I found these plates and instantly fell in love. They are super retro. I don't know anything about them. They have a little circle indentation that appears to look like a spot for a cup. I would love to have the matching cups! They also had a clear set that I am tempted to go back to see if they still have. I got the four of these for 20.00.

Next up is a shop called Vintique Alley. Such a cute name! The shop owner is super sweet and always there to help.  She has a large section outside that was filled with vendors the night of the open house. One of the vendors had vintage hats that I was drooling over. We talked about how we wish women still wore hats. We decided we needed to bring them back! Although I was super bummed because I made a rookie mistake and didn't bring any cash. DUH!!! So I was not able to purchase one of her beautiful hats:(. I have been searching Etsy and such for some. I picked up a retro clock at Vintique Alley for just 10.00! It is perfect on The Hubs nightstand.

Vintique Alley is located at 3758 Elizabeth Street, Riverside, 92506 (right next door to Embellished Nests).

Finally we visited one of my old favorites Forget Me Not Antiques. This shop is filled with many unique vendors and I always find something interesting. The owner is always there! I don't know if there is anyone else who works there as I have only seen her in there. I like to look for records at this shop and I hit the jackpot this time. I found a few great records that were in perfect shape. One was never opened...it was the Chipmunks' Christmas Album. I knew Shane would love it and Mama too. I also got a Johnny Mathis record. I love having a record player it takes me back in time(even though I was born in the 80's). Being in our 1959 home I like to pretend that it is still that era. Things were so cool and chill back then:). Forget Me Not Antiques is located at: 3774 Elizabeth Street, Riverside, California 92506.

 Overall, it was so much fun! If anyone wants to go I will be your shopping date! Shop local:)



Summer Lovin'

As Christmas approaches my eyes are seeing way too many cute things in the stores! Tonight, Shane and I, made Snickerdoodles while we listened to the Chipmunk's Christmas Record. I am officially in the Christmas spirit. I know! It is not even Thanksgiving. I want Christmas to last as long as possible. I also get so busy and I end up not enjoying it as much as I want. I really want to focus on not getting so busy this year and focus on the celebration of Jesus' birthday.

Today while shopping at Target I spied with my little eye...something sparkly! Have you seen the E.L.F. Holiday line? I snatched up the nail polish set. It had the prettiest shades. I already painted my nails. If I have something new I have to use it right away. It is a problem I have. The formula is surprisingly great. I was not expecting much from a 5.00 gift set, but I love it! It dries super fast. If you have any girls on your Christmas list I am sure they will love it. I really want to try the eyeshadow palettes next.

It is no secret...I love makeup. My Summer Lovin' posts usually are all makeup related. I recently signed up for a monthly makeup bag service by ipsy. Yep! Every month for 10.00 you get a cute makeup bag filled with lots of goodies. I mean how wonderful is that. Makeup and mail..I was sold. Every month they have a few different products that they fill your bag with. Not everyone gets all the same items. This was my first month receiving the bag and I am in love. First off they send you an email when your package is on its way to you. I was sooooo giddy. I couldn't wait for it to come. Then it arrives in a pink sparkly packing envelope, because a manila envelope is just not acceptable! Then inside was a pink and gold makeup bag. My two favorites. Inside that were six products! Some are full size and others are travel size.



This is with the packaging on each product. I just love packaging!

Look at that makeup bag back there!!! The back top left is a beautiful  nail polish by Nailtini in "Champagne", then a gorgeous lip crayon(my newest obsession) by: be a bombshell, then a small little TRESemme hairspray. Most people might not be too thrilled with this, but this is the hairspray I use and I just ran out so I am excited! In the middle is an orangey lip balm in "pillow plush" by em (Michelle Phan) I believe she is the Co-Founder of ipsy. This is her new line and we are the first to receive a full size product. I already tried it(of course) and it is really moisturizing. Next to the Lip balm pot is a bronzing powder by Pixi in "Subtly Suntouched". I see this line at Target all the time, but have never tried it(kinda pricey). Finally, in the front is an eyeliner in "Topaz" by Starlooks. I have never heard of this line. I tested it out on my hand and it is actually a really pretty silver. Once it is on it stays put. Super excited to try them all out!!!



If you are interested in signing up for this monthly service I highly recommend it. I can't wait for my next bag! You can use my link http://www.ipsy.com/r/206g. You will not be disappointed!!!


Work is finally settling down for me. Only working 8 hours a day instead of 10-12 is a glorious thing. Since I was working so much I had very little time to do anything extra. One of the things I missed most was reading my favorite blogs. I have a few new ones that I L.O.V.E. Come look:

 

 

I first read a blog post from this blogger about anxiety. I instantly bonded with the writer. I then found out her name was Summer. We fellow Summers have to be instant BFFs...it is a rule. Then.....I found out she loves God and makeup and has a You Tube channel talking about it all. She reminds me of Rachel Zoe:) minus the selfish part.

My next favorite blog is actually by a friend of mine. My friends are so talented!!! This blog is all about doing fun activities with your kiddos. Clarissa is a former teacher and she has some awesome ideas and is a great mama to her two sweet little boys she adopted! I love a great adoption story and boy do they have one! 

 

 

This is a super short list. I am working on a Summer Lovin'- Christmas Wish List edition:). I am really into giving unique gifts this year and am scouring Etsy and other little shops on the internet. What are some of your favs this month?

 

 







 

 



 

 

 

Lil' Pumpkin Baby Shower

 

My sister is having a baby! Annnnnd it's a GIRL!!! I am super excited. I have a boy and it just isn't as fun to shop for a boy. It is easier having a boy as I can put a plain T-shirt and some Levi's on him and he is good to go. Girl's on the other hand have hair bows..tights...sparkly shirts and tutus. So, needless to say I am glad my sister is having a little girl and Auntie Summer can spoil her. I have even had two dreams about her! Can you tell I am excited????!!!

I was also very excited to get going on planning a shower for my sister. I can't believe it is already over. My Mom and I were in charge. My sister being the creative one made a collage with inspiring items that matched her theme. She decided on a Fall themed shower with a hint of Cinderella. Mainly the pumpkin turning into a carriage part. It was perfect as it is Fall time and we were able to add a bit of whimsy to make it look like a baby shower.

 

Event planning is in my blood and I couldn't wait to get started but, I had the busiest time at work weeks leading up to the shower. I was so bummed. All I wanted to do was stroll up and down the aisles of Joann's and Michaels!!! This was not fair. So, I did a lot of online shopping instead and enlisted the help of a few people. My Mom did most of the work and did a wonderful job.

The shower was at my home. We had around 25 women. My sister got so many cute things! I hope everyone enjoyed themselves, Each person is so special in my sisters' life and soon will be a part of the Lil' Pumpkins' life. My sister is not 100% sure in a name so, I will refer to my niece as a pumpkin. My sister's best friend took all the pictures. I can't say how happy I was to have someone who knew what they were doing to take on that task. She is super talented and thinks of all the great shots that I always forget. They will be pictures my sister treasures forever! You should check out her blog Polka Dotted Blue Jay and see all the cute things she has made! Here are some of my favorite shots:

My Mom and sister found this at Hobby Lobby. Isn't it perfect for our theme? 

I just had to use a white pumpkin as the centerpiece. I was able to find flowers in all of the colors that we were using. I used an empty chili bean can inside the pumpkin to fill up with water and keep the flowers in place.

 

I can not even say enough about these cookies. Not only were they beautiful...they were delicious! I have been FaceBook stalking a page called Beautifully Delicious By Danielle. Which the name is perfect! You have to click the link above and check out her work it is amazing. She did exactly what I had in my mind, which is very hard to do. I am super picky and I knew she would deliver. They were almost too pretty to eat....almost!

 

This cake was actually made by Target! My mom has become friends with the bakers there and they really did a great job. They went above and beyond what they normally do and made two beautiful cakes. One was pumpkin spice and the other was white cake with strawberry filling. Again, beautiful and delicious.

Overall, we had a wonderful day. Being in November we were afraid it might be too cold, but the weather was gorgeous! Thanks to all who attended. I can't wait to meet my Lil' Pumpkin!!!!