Divine Domestics

I've moved

2010-04-14T12:42:00.000-05:00

to a new blog. Find me here: http://laurasloadsoflaundry.blogspot.com/

My Absence

2009-04-21T21:53:00.004-05:00

As you may have noticed blogland/ family that pretend you read this often but probably don't- I have been slacking in the biggest way on blogging. I suppose I keep some people entertained, but I highly doubt my following of five, three of which actually leave comments will die without my daily update on my life. I've just developed the mentality that why blog about what I'm doing when it takes soo much time to type it out, check for errors, take pictures of everything, upload, edit, upload to blogger, move around the text, set the time and date, tag it and post it...and check back often to see if any one's left me some nice comment about how cleaver I am, or how great I am, and feel utter disappointment when no one finds me funny, or entertaining enough to leave a comment, or let alone become a freaking follower. It just has lost it's stance on my priority list these days. I've taken on so many new projects in my recent weeks...most of which I enjoy, some that are failures, and some that make me want to pull my hair out and slap anyone that comes near me. The point is I've taken to living my life rather than trying to come up with a life to tell "everyone" about. I've tried at least something new every other day lately, and I've truly enjoyed the challenge, aside from the fact that I've spent a ton of money between Joann's fabrics, and Hobby Lobby. And I've spent a lot more time with my family and enjoying the spring weather. I'd like to say that at some point I'll feel the urge to be a blogging bugger, but I can honestly say my hearts just not that into it anymore. I hope that the people I follow don't take offence to my lack of comments on their blogs during my luls, 'cause the truth is I'm not even checking blogger to see what's new...and frankly some people's blogs I used to feel so inspired by are becoming a repeat of the previous blogs. Perhaps I've just got bloggy ADD---so I guess this is me explaining my absence, as well as signing off 'til I develop the urge to spend countless minutes trying to entertain/impress/seek your love again.

Peace out!

Relaunch

2009-04-07T21:38:00.004-05:00

I have relaunched my Etsy store. There are a lot of new items on it, and more to come. Please be understanding that I have yet to add all my pictures, but I'm working on that...and I hope to have them on there by early next week. Please be sure to check it out here!

So that is the reason I took a break from blogging, but I plan to have new posts coming soon. Be sure to check back! Here are a few items I've added to my store:

And the grand prize goes to...

2009-04-02T22:16:00.003-05:00

Random Integer Generator
Here are your random numbers:3 9 1
Timestamp: 2009-04-03 03:16:05 UTC

3-MRMD_GRL
9-Melissa
1-cpullum
And there you have it folks the lucky winners to the latest giveaway!
Congrats!
So be sure to send me an email (lauraallmon@gmail.com) with your address so we can get those lovely prize packs out in the mail to you.

Break Time

2009-03-31T06:00:00.000-05:00

I just want to let everyone know that I will be taking a little more time away from the computer...as I'm spending more time creating and crafting. I apologize for the lack of reading material, but I'm very motivated right now and I have the juices flowing as well as a horrible allergy cough and sinus head aches, so this week will be spent focusing on my projects, and resting up. I'll be back next week with lots of goodies, pictures and updates on my exciting life. So have a great week y'all...take care and check back on Monday please, but who knows what I might find to quick post at any time. Don't hold your breath!

Award!

2009-03-30T06:00:00.000-05:00

I have recieved a friendship award from my friend Allie at Finding Inspiration In Food.

It comes with this message: "These blogs are exceedingly charming. These kind bloggers aim to find and be friends. They are not interested in self-aggrandizement. Our hope is that when the ribbons of these prizes are cut, even more friendships are propagated."
So I should pass this on to some friends...

Kat at Kat's Corner

Nicki at the life of C.A.N.

and Scotti at SMOX Creations
Thank you Allie, and I really adore all my friends blogs, they keep me entertained!

Giveaway

2009-03-29T18:00:00.003-05:00

I've been selected to host another great giveaway. I'm gonna make this one short and simple.

Yoplait for Kids helps build strong bones, enabling healthy and active bodies. Perfect for a fun-filled day for your active children. Three lucky winners will get the Yoplait Get Active Prize Pack that includes a travel cooler (to take your yogurt on the road), a jump rope, a water bottle and an outdoor game set that includes a beach ball, paddle ball, Jai-Ali and a Frisbee. Either way you can get a great coupon to anyone that clicks here.

To enter the giveaway please leave me a comment on what you love about spring, or what your Easter plans are, or just how horrible your allergies are right now. Whatever you want to comment about. To get a second entry follow, and leave a second comment that you follow.

Good luck everyone! Thursday night is the deadline, I'll announce the winners on Friday based on Random.org.

Lets go Banana's

2009-03-26T06:00:00.001-05:00

I took my chances on a recipe I found last week on two peas, and I was totally impressed. I have just recently been introduced to Nutella...and I LOVE it! So I wanted to share how mine turned out, and encourage you to try them out too! I'm copying the this recipe right off of the two peas blog...but please don't hesitate to check out Maria's site...it is awesome. She has amazing stuff on there that inspires me to get in the kitchen. Now if I could just get the sewing machine to fit next to the cutting board.

Banana Cupcakes (Muffins) with a Nutella Swirl Adapted from EveryDay Food and Spork or Foon
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
3/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
1 1/2 cups mashed bananas (about 4 ripe bananas), plus 1 whole banana, for garnish (optional)
2 large eggs
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Jar of Nutella
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a mini muffin tin. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Make a well in center of flour mixture. In well, mix together butter, mashed bananas, eggs, and vanilla. Stir to incorporate flour mixture (do not overmix). Dividing evenly, spoon batter into muffin cups.
With a toothpick swirl in the Nutella, about a ½ teaspoon each.
Bake until a toothpick inserted in center of a cupcake comes out clean, 10 to 15 minutes. Remove cupcakes from pan; cool completely on a wire rack.

I made mine in the extra large muffin tin I'm in love with, so I baked a tad bit longer than this. Just like banana nut bread without the nuts Dal hates.

It's Spring at my nest

2009-03-25T06:00:00.001-05:00

I must confess I had left the christmas glitz in my apocrathy jars all this time.

So today was the day to update for spring. And possibly longer. Who knows when I'll decide to do something different. So here's what they have in them now. eggs (yes plastic easter eggs I painted to be more natrual and match my decor)

butterflies from feathers and this little birdy that also happened to get a paint job

So happy spring for my home!

Sew Sew Sew....

2009-03-24T06:00:00.000-05:00

Mocha
Is my friend Allison's dog. She's a total cutie...but she tore up her dog bed pillow cover and needed a new one. So Allison being the trusting friend she allowed me to try out my skills on a new one.
So the big reveal:

Yes I did that zipper! Oh yeah, happy dance.

I also made some crayon rolls which will be available on my etsy store soon. But if you want one just tell me and I'll get you one!

Panic and

2009-03-23T20:58:00.003-05:00

I was thinking that I might be expecting a package but that I didn't look on the front porch today for it. So, I open the front door and look out to see if something is waiting for me. Nope. And Short Leg Floppy Ear No Name Dog goes running out like lightening. HOLY SMOKES! I'm running after his wild @$$ in bare feet down the street with no leash. Once he gets all the way to the end of our street my fat jiggly rear gives up and I run back to the house, grab his leash and a pair of flip flops, keys and leave the garage door wide open and my crying child in the living room to go after that BAD BAD dog. Oh I'm in full on panic mode. He runs to the playground, and I jump out of the car go after him, and some teen trys to help however he's scared of males, so that only made it worse. He runs another two blocks towards a neighborhood with more traffic. I'm screaming at him, following him in the car, and praying I don't loose him. How he has this much energy, or move that fast with those short legs is beyond me. The whole time I'm freaking out, totally freaking out about Neely being in the house. Or mostly hoping she wouldn't go outside trying to come after me or looking for me. So my overweight rear is running, driving like a maniac, screaming for my dog that doesn't know his name, and having a mini heart attack at the though of my child possibly being in the road or someone seeing her and thinking "oh cute kid..." Finally an angel in white (a white ford) blocked the road to keep cars from coming and let his kid out to help me. Which is great 'cause the dog loves kids, and we managed to get him pinned between two houses and the fence. Oh Sooo annoyed and angry. I get home to find my poor baby girl sitting in the living room chair crying (as I knew she would be) and watching House. So needless to say I'm highly annoyed with my dog tonight...yet he's been asleep on my sofa pretty much since he got home. Yeah I'm out of energy too!

So we're all in the house now...doors shut good.

Stuff We Did on Saturday:

2009-03-22T20:45:00.001-05:00

Sleep in, clean up dog pee from living room floor (WTC?! Though he was housebroken), and get dressed to head to Brenham, TX.
We wanted to visit the Blue Bell Creamery, check out the local shops, and take some pictures of the bluebonnets. I'm glad to say that we in fact got to do all three of those things.
However the creamery doesn't give tours on Saturdays, but we got to enjoy some ice cream just the same! I love Bluebell, hands down my favorite ice cream, really I think if anyone is from the south it's their fave. How could it not be?
We left the ice cream heaven and headed for the downtown area. If you're from Texas you know that all the small towns have a downtown area with unique shops and such usually wrapped around the city hall or courthouse. I have to say that Brenham has quite a few, seems to be a very active area...I was impressed and inspired by some of the items I saw in the shops. Oh I need more time to create! We had a delicious lunch at a cafe, that served this amazing herb bread. I really need some recipes on spicy/ herb bread. I'm wanting to try to make some soon. After lunch we headed back down HWY 290 towards Chapel Hill (a one stop light town) to a field covered, stress on the covered in bluebonnets for a little picture time.The whole day Neely was excited to go get pictures taken in her new dress, that I made, but once we got there I couldn't get a freaking smile from her for the life of me. Grr! So much for nice new spring pics for everyone, you'll all just have to get crappy upset looking depressed goth kid in flowers. Super! So we left to head towards the Washington On the Brazos state park to get some play time in for the kiddo, and I was hoping to enjoy the historical goodies it has to offer since I was like 12 the one time I ever went and could have cared less. Half way there (like 15 miles) I realize I lost my phone in the flower field. Oh (insert sailor language here)! So we had to turn around and go find it. I'm about to puke at the though of loosing my phone it's got so much info on it I can't imagine living without as well as the cost of replacing it. Lucky for me I found it no prob! Helped that I could use the hubby's phone to call my phone. Wheeww! Relief. So back on the road...and we arrive at the park;
with a tired ticked off kid, and an allergy infection-ed husband, and exhausted me.
We went right for the playground and left it at that. And that was pretty much our day. Not so bad if you ask me.
I've been working on my pictures and would like to invite you to check them out at:http://picasaweb.google.com/lauraallmon or just click here!

Okay Okay...

2009-03-20T06:00:00.003-05:00

So I've managed to get the sewing machine to work. I'm not going to say that it's not frustrating just the same...I'm not patient, and it requires a lot of patience. Thread needle, thread bobbin, thread needle, cut string, thread needle, cut cut cut, oh man I sewed that backwards! You can see where this could be an issue. Quite honestly I'm horrible at a straight line, I'm worse at a curve, and I have no idea how to do a zipper, button hole, or a trim= so I have no idea what I'm doing!
However aside from my lack of skill, I have a bit of determination I stress on the bit part.
Well I've made a few things that I'll share with you next week.
I'll also catch you up on Leroy's transition to our home. But I'm going to spend my weekend with my family, and that means limited computer time. We're hoping to get out of the house and into the sun... and I'll also have pictures to share from our weekend in the next week too.
I've also bought my first bottle of Modge Podge, very excited about that! I can't wait to start using it. I've got an idea that I'm kicking around in my head, but I'm still searching for just the right thing to make the project perfect!
So have a happy weekend, go enjoy the wonderful spring weather, and spend it with the ones you love!

Drum roll please....

2009-03-19T22:23:00.004-05:00

The super sniffer has arrived. Sadly he just got neutered, and is feeling under the weather. He's not a barker or a howler, but he's a cryer. I could tell when the pain shot was wearing off later in the evening...he's really good at the high pitched wheeee wheee wheeee. In fact as I'm writing this it's my background music. He's apparently very true to his breed on the hound smell, as well as the sniffer. It's nice outside so we leave the windows cracked, which he can't stop going up to and smelling the incoming air. He's afraid of men...which has been interesting with Dallas. Every time Dallas gets up, or walks around, Leroy runs from one spot to the other, sofa, his bed, the front door all while keeping a watchful eye on Dallas. Every time Dallas goes into Neely's room with her, he waits 'til Dallas leaves and then goes and looks in the doorway. So he's leery. He'll get past that soon if he's any kind of lazy. Wears me out just watching it. Responds VERY well to no, and any command such as "come" in a stern tone! Absolutely amazing on his potty training. It's hard to keep him from wanting to lick his wound...and he's not eating due to the medication from earlier today. In a way I wish that he could have already had this part taken care of. I hate that his first day here has to be in agony, he'll probably resent me for it. It seems he likes to sit on the sofa, not a cuddlier but loves any attention you give him. So we'll see how things go from here. I hope to teach him about the dogie door on Sunday, and hopefully his day alone with Dallas will get him to warm up to him. More updates to come. And I guess we're sticking with Leroy, however Neely will only call him Lerow.

Bookcase Up-do

2009-03-19T06:00:00.001-05:00

We have a bookcase in our living room, and I sorta despise it. I hate how it always looks like a cluttered mess. I'd love a fancy new one with the sliding glass doors, but my budget says NO! So I ran across a bit of inspiration in the Serena & Lilly catalog.

I love how all the books are covered to match, I've actually seen this done in a few catalogs, where they are covered to match the decor.

So I set out to give my bookcase a bit of an up-do: and this is what I have accomplished so far...a work in progress, so use your imagination I haven't made it to the bottom half.

Hopefully I'll get around to finishing the bottom part soon.

A while back

2009-03-18T06:00:00.000-05:00

I made this box a while back for a gift using clip art and some cute scrapbooking paper. I thought I'd share with you guys, since I've been feeling a bit under the weather and I haven't come up with any new creations.

Alright I couldn't for the life of me get the card picture to rotate...but you get the idea.

A few more

2009-03-17T06:00:00.000-05:00

things I love from the catalog previously mentioned.

Really I love everything in the catalog, but these are some really cute and unique ideas that I would love to replicate (some day).

I'll have a drink

2009-03-16T21:35:00.003-05:00

and a line of blow!
You may think to yourself, oh come on, what could possibly be that bad? There's nothing that should drive you to drinking and drugs.
Well my friend there is, and it's a freaking sewing machine. It makes me want to kill someone or something.

Advice-
Stay clear of the mad crazy woman with scissors and the stitch remover/ eye ball poker outer. She's likely to take out all that rage on you....because if you haven't noticed the culprit is laying sideways on the table. Yes that table the one of there covered in all that thread and material...the one with the big mess. The big mess she is too pissed to worry about cleaning up.

It is beyond me how it is sooo difficult for me and my sewing machine to work together, or whatever. All I know is we are NOT making sweet music, or anything at that!!! So in my violent rage of anger I'm going to sign off and watch my recorded TV shows about knocked up teens so I can be reminded of how much better off I am than those characters.
Oh and maybe do a bit of research of local repair/ lesson shops.
As for now, screw crafting...this is now officially my everything but crafts blog!

Waiting, and it's no fun!

2009-03-16T06:00:00.002-05:00

We got to meet our new kid on Saturday. He's much cuter in person than he is in his pictures. He's really sweet, shy a bit, and very calm.
He got comfortable after being at our house for a while, and made himself at home on the back of the sofa. I guess he's picked his spot already. Sadly he's got to go get "fixed" and then he can come live with us. We're all pretty excited.
Apparently Leroy hasn't been his name for very long, and he'd respond just as well to any other name, so Neely's been frantically asking "can we call it (insert any random object or made up noise here)?" That's become quite annoying and I truly regret having said anything. If and I doubt we do change his name I'd like for it to be Mason since I'm totally digging the mason jars these days, and it's a good country name. But Leroy is pretty country too!
So in an effort to keep Neely calm about the wait, I took her to Petsmart today to pick up a few items we need to prepare for his arrival. We had to get 1) collar 2) leash 3) food and water bowls 4) rawhide's, 5) ball 6) treats. I skimped out on toys, they are soo very expensive there...so we'll hit up the dollar stores, and make use of some of our old ones from before. I'm going to wait until I see him again before we pick out a dog pillow-bed. And we've got to train him to use the dogie door. Other than that, we're all set.
So keep checking back for pictures and updates on his transition into our crazy family.

Giveaway

2009-03-13T22:22:00.001-05:00

http://makingmyamericandream.blogspot.com/2009/03/twist-review-giveaway.html

Go to this giveaway! These suckers are cool!

Just a little something I made

2009-03-13T06:00:00.004-05:00

I received a great catalog in the mail a while back. LOVE it. Can't afford one single item from it. But I've hidden it in a special place to refer to for inspiration.
Well they had this awesome Note Holder Frame, and I said to myself "Self you can make that!" So here is my much cheaper version of it. I used a $4 frame from the church resale shop, some jute twine, and a few binder clips. Simply just tacked down the twine, and I'm ready to go. (Okay Okay, being me I spray painted the frame black to match everything else I have!) So overall savings $35!

Tada!

2009-03-12T06:00:00.001-05:00

So here's the pictures of our paint job. (this picture makes it look a lot lighter than it really is, the first one is a more acurate picture)And here is a pre- paint pictures from when we first moved in.

We're trying to adopt...

2009-03-11T17:33:00.005-05:00

This super sweet baby:Leroy!
I really hope that this works out, we're waiting on a call to set up our in home interview/ inspection. Please wish us luck, and keep us in your prayers. Dallas isn't against it (totally) but I think we have a great home and I know we can give him some lovin' and attention. Aren't those the sweetest eyes you've ever seen?

Brushed Up and Rolled Out

2009-03-07T20:52:00.003-06:00

Well Friday night I worked on a portion of the painting, then Saturday morning we started out. It turned out to be a huge disaster in my husbands eyes. Basically it set the groundwork for a horrible weekend together. Yes that's right I'm freaking pissy! But all his b*tch*ng aside, and my sore arms, I learned a few things about painting that I had not realized before.
1) Although that blue tape barely sticks when you want it to get a dab of paint on it and it won't peel off for anything. Horrible that there are little sections of blue tape still stuck to the trim of my house. Perhaps someday I'll get fed up with it and get a knife and start scraping.
2) More important than the paint or the rollers or that crappy tape is carpet cleaner. I know, I know, why didn't you use a drop cloth? Those suckers are a huge mess to deal with, you have to unroll, lay out, move around, hope not to smear the paint that's on it onto the floor or furniture...not to mention that it sticks to your feet when you walk around on it. So my reason for NEEDING carpet cleaner. - Not that my carpet isn't horrible as it is, I mean we had that little dog (RIP) that refused to use the doggy door when he was mad, and I have a three year old that eats anywhere in the house she wants to.
3)I learned that 11 ft ceilings, a 6 ft ladder, and 5'5" girl with a fear of heights doesn't work out real well especially when trying not to paint the ceiling.
4) Guilt will occur when you happen to decide to paint the house in "Not a color your husband would choose" and he gets pissed because painting sucks..lets face it it's not a day at the playground.
5) Those really big refrigerators have wheels, Amazing...too bad I can't get the water to come out the door.
6) Prison cell grey does in fact bleed through one coat of Toasted Coconut. 2 layers of paint are required.
7) Spongy brushes are a waste. As are any product that is "for corners"
8) Apparently the paint they sell these days aren't strong enough to get you high...making the whole process a lot less fun.
So all in all I sacrificed my child's cleanliness in order to finish my project. I didn't make her take a bath on Friday night. I know I'm a terrible mom! I pissed my husband off real good, by making it to where the TV was unplugged for more than 5 hours. And we didn't get the bedroom done. So more to do next weekend! On the upside I don't have to look at Prison Cell Grey anymore (except in my bedroom).

I will share pics as soon as I take some.

Too Busy Thursday

2009-03-06T06:00:00.000-06:00

After a full busy day at work..and what day isn't? I came home and got to work! I was modivated!

I've decided and convinced my husband that we need to paint the inside of our house this weekend. Right before we bought the house the last people painted it this light blue grey color...and it depresses the heck out of me. It's like a cloudy winter day everyday. So in an effort to speed up the process I started taping off the trim and areas we don't want to get paint on. That blue tape doesn't stick very well. I have a feeling I'm going to come home tomorrow and re-tape the whole thing over again. I did most of the area's I will need taped off, so a small percentage of the way there.

I washed a small bit of clothes, which I refuse to fold, or switch into the dryer until later. So Yeah, what I'm a little lazy?!

I made a wonderful little dress for Neely, because that's right I got my sewing machine figured out! Very excited. however I feel like such a spaz because I have so many half started, planned out not started and needs to just be done projects...so you can't expect too much from me. This took me maybe an hour. Glad it was a quick project. She's such a little show off.

I also cut a slip of fabric to put in her new cup that I bought her, it's one where you can decorate the paper on the inside. So she will be sporting her new dress and matching cup to "school" tomorrow.

I also saw the cutest idea on The Shabby Nest...and it was like the answer to my prayers (or at least frustrations). I have a dresser that we repainted and use for our TV stand..and it holds almost all of Dal's Cd's so it's perfect...however when I repainted it I took off the hardware, and once they dried I put them in a grocery bag to put back on later...long story short, Dal thought it was a bag for trash, and I no longer have pulls for the drawers. I've not been able to find any that fit the holes either. So I used this twine I bought last week to make some pulls. I like the rustic, casual look. I'm sorry for the poopy pic. It's dark!

So I feel very accomplished that I have completed not one, but THREE Projects as well as a small bit of cleaning.

Tomorrow I will purchase my paint, and attempt to start painting the small areas with a brush. Wish me luck...I think the eleven foot ceilings might be an issue. Poor Dal doesn't have a clue what this project will entail. So wish us luck. Updates to follow!

I hope everyone has a great weekend!

All the candles are blown out...

2009-03-05T06:00:00.000-06:00

And I want to thank all my wonderful friends and family that made my birthday super duper great.
In case you haven't heard, my wonderful husband let my buy a new laptop, just for me. Ahh a dream come true. I've complained a lot less (as in not at all) in the past two weeks about the crappy computer not working, or the pop ups. Or all the other nine million reasons I hate the old computer. Yes it is in fact so great to do whatever I want on the computer in my bed. He also took me out of town last weekend for some R&R, fun and site seeing... we had a great time just being together. He took me out to my fave resturant, and yes, he lived through the ballet.
The ballet was really an experience. I could see where going could get addicting. I enjoyed every second of it. I thought it was amazing how it told the story and showed so much emotion without using any words at all. The orchestra was an experience in itself. The props and costumes where absolutely inspiring...that alone had to take an insane amount of time and talent. The lighting being used to push the story along and replace words, working alongside the music and motions...flawlessly might I add...breathtaking. And that's not even touching on how awesome the dancers are. I read somewhere that they can only wear their shoes for one performance! I can't imagine having to buy (or in their case have) enough shoes for each day. I can't say Dallas had as good of a time as I did...and I must say I wasn't just jumping out of my seat, but who does that sorta thing?! I'd love to go again sometime, and I encourage anyone that can to go at least once.
Anyhow, back to my birthday...It sucks working on your birthday. It's like the whole world should be allowed a paid day off for birthdays (may be your mamma's too). But Allison really knows how to make a birthday at the office the best. She made the most amazing cupcakes in the world. Melt in your mouth to die for. And thank goodness no singing that horrible song this year. Gene (a man from the office) took me out for a nice lunch, which I loved! Allison also got me this genius ink pad for my stamps...and I've already been enjoying it up a storm!
My Dad and Step Mom sent me something that I've always wanted, yet never told anyone. Probably because I could never justify spending money on: A MAGIC BULLET! I know, it's corny but I fall in love from those infomercials. I'm very excited about this...I believe it really will revolutionize the way I cook and prepare my meals. Sadly I haven't had a chance to fire her up...but I'm kicking around ideas of things I can puree and juice, and blend...just a matter of making the time. If you have one already and something super awesome you make, share it with me!
My Mom and Step Dad sent me some cold hard cash! Only because I had a list of things I wanted and she didn't want to have to choose...well I've used it for the dremel style rotary tool, and when I get around to it, I'm going to get a new printer so I can start printing from my new computer. I've already made great use of the dremel...and I will share that project with everyone soon.
I'd say all in all I had a pretty kick @$$ birthday...and it's all because I have the best people in the world in my life. Thanks everyone for everything...but mostly for feeding into my creative and artistic desires!

Happy Birthday Nolan!

2009-03-04T06:00:00.000-06:00

Today my little brother Nolan turns the big number 4!!! You can read all his exciting adventures over at Kat's Korner. He truly is an amazing little guy, plus he's really funny...with the most handsome smile!

Sobbing Sunday

2009-03-03T06:00:00.002-06:00

Sunday we stuck around the house. It was so nice to be able to relax after a full week of go go go. I woke up pretty early, and decided to watch a movie that I rented, while Dallas was sleeping in. Didn't think I'd subject him to the ballet and chick flicks all in one week.
Rental of choice: The Secret Life of Bees... I have no idea if I was just feeling extra emotional, a total sucker for sad stories or what, but I freaking cried so much during that movie...I'd have to say it was a close second to P.S. I Love You on my sob fest meter(by the way listened to the audio book of this once and couldn't stop crying the whole time either). If you haven't seen it, and I doubt anyone really has...it really was a great movie.
So anyhow I was the good little wife and I made a pot roast and cooked up some cornbread for lunch, and we spent pretty much the rest of the day working on our hobbies, me: writing out some recipes for Pillsbury and baking some of those recipes. Dallas: playing play station, surfing the net, whatever guys like to do.
I decided come late afternoon that I'd like to watch the other movie I rented, ALONE as well. Rental of choice # 2: Fireproof. I had to see what all the hype is about, and I don't want to be a total hypocrite to follow the book but not see the movie. It was really okay once you can get past the preaching and "after school special" feel to it. I will say it too brought tears to my eyes...I guess it's a story everyone no matter what can relate to in some since. I'd recommend it to someone that's okay with made for TV quality films, but it's more about the story that the production.
Anyhow..my self diagnosis will be that I was extra emotional, making my Sunday a Sob-fest.
As for those recipes, I need prayers that they get me to the grand prize because I've got big plans if it does!

Crudy Service

2009-03-01T22:05:00.005-06:00

It seems like everywhere we go lately we get crappy service. I feel like I need to start a running tab of all the places that I go that have horrible service or rude staff. Just in the last two weeks this is what I've put up with (that really struck a nerve enough for me to remember to be upset about):
A few weeks ago at the Mexican place(Cafe Adobe), we waited almost 20 minutes for our check. Something that really drives me nuts.
Friday I order nuggets at the drive through (Burger King), only to find that I payed for them but they weren't in my bag when I got to my destination and looked in the bag.
Last Tuesday we had to suffer through Taco Bell for dinner on our way to the basketball game, since I got beans and rice I needed a fork, the self serve area was out of sporks, so I ask the cashier for one, he's looking for one and his manager looks at me and says to him, tell her to get one from out there. WTC? Do you think I'm really too dumb to not look by the napkins for one? And can you please bring your fat rude butt up here and show me how to eat rice with a plastic knife? D-bag. That really had me heated up.
Last night we go to a local bar for Crawfish, I order a drink and wait ten minutes for it, we waited almost 40 minutes for our Crawfish, only to find that they are micro is size. Almost to the point they weren't worth peeling.
I made a quick run by the grocery yesterday to pick up two whole bags worth of stuff, and the bag boy just stands there while I put my stuff in the bags for him!
I'm just highly frustrated with the horrible service we get everywhere.
Sooo, I'm just going to add to the lack of confidence in consumer spending because everywhere I go I get garbage for service. So why does the economy suck? The retards at the restaurants and trashy b&b's
Late Addition:
http://bwnt.businessweek.com/interactive_reports/customer_service_2009/index.asp
http://articles.moneycentral.msn.com/Investing/Extra/10-best-companies-for-customer-service.aspx
it's good to see someone is trying

A good book to read:

2009-02-27T08:22:00.005-06:00

The Family Fortune By Laurie Horowitz

I just read it, and loved it.

Synopsis:
Jane Fortune's fortunes have taken a downturn. Thanks to the profligate habits of her father and older sister, the family's money has evaporated and Jane has to move out of the only home she's ever known: a stately brick town house on Boston's prestigious Beacon Hill. Thirty-eight and terminally single, Jane has never pursued idle pleasures like her sibling and father. Instead, she has devoted her time to running the Fortune Family Foundation, a revered philanthropic institution that has helped spark the careers of many a budding writer, including Max Wellman, Jane's first—and only—love.
Now Jane has lost her luster. Max, meanwhile, has become a bestselling novelist and a renowned literary lothario. But change is afoot. And in the process of saving her family and reigniting the flames of true love, Jane might just find herself becoming the woman she was always meant to be.

Based loosely on Jane Austen's Persuasion, Horowitz's. This is pure chick lit, featuring characters with the depth of a teacup and a "girl loses boy, girl finds boy" plot. Horowitz continues the tradition ably, promising plenty as soon as she ditches the lit-crit posturing and embraces her inner Lauren Weisberger. (from Barnes and Nobles website)

And the Winners ARE:

2009-02-26T07:25:00.001-06:00

Allie
Melissa
and MRMD_GRL

Congrats!
Email me with you address and I'll get it in the mail to you.

Marie

2009-02-25T06:01:00.002-06:00

For my birthday, Dallas got tickets to the ballet (as I had hinted that I wanted). I'm very excited, we're going to the opening night, Thursday, of Marie. I've never been to the real ballet, meaning not four year olds attempting to twirl around. It also seems like it's going to be a very interesting (and girly) story. I'm very proud of my husband for doing something so un-dude like for me. I'm a lucky girl.

So there is a little preview I guess...Either way I'm not sure what to expect, but just the same I am looking foward to it big time!

Today is my Birthday!

2009-02-25T06:00:00.002-06:00

To me! Ha ha, but seriously that means that today is the last day to leave a comment for the Yoplus Giveaway! I'm going to draw my three winners tonight, so get over there and tell me your favorite flavor, and forward the link to all your friends in your email address book!
So check back tomorrow to see if you're one of the lucky three!

A Beach In February?!

2009-02-24T06:00:00.002-06:00

Saturday night after realizing what a huge disappointment our room was (Please do go to the link for the room if you missed yesterday's post!), we decided to get out of there for as long as we could (without falling asleep). We headed over to the Iguana Grill for dinner. It was great food, a nice sunset, and we got to listen to the lovely tunes of the Dust Devils, a local band. That is one thing I love about Austin, everyone is some sort of artist, or they try to be. We left the restaurant and went to Bee Cave to the Barnes and Noble, we're book junkies. I picked up two new books (Megan Hart) and we walked around the outdoor mall there. We went back to our room...to fight the shower curtains, and dust bunnies.
The next morning we decided to take a drive around Lake Travis and take in some of the hill country views. It was such a beautiful drive. I don't know how anyone couldn't live there and not feel inspired.

We made our first stop at Marble Falls, it's a very nice small town. We drove around, checked out some of the over priced boutiques down town, while we waited for the incredibly long line to die down at the Bluebonnet Cafe. Luckily we snuck in there just in time before they closed at 1:45 to give this little gem a try. Honestly the best home cooked meal I can recall having since I was young and my grandmother would cook for me. (Check back soon for more on this great place.)

We left Marble Falls and headed for Largo Vista...but on the way we got distracted by a sign that said "Flat Creek Vineyard"so we went there. However we got there right at three when they were ending tours for the winter hours, so I felt very uncomfortable about going into the tasting room, plus being frugal as I am and stuffed to the gills, I didn't want to be forced to pay more than a few bucks, or feel compelled to buy an expensive bottle of wine. - The good news is after some google time today, it fits my budget, and it sounds like they have great wines that I plan to look for next time I hit the store. Next time I'm going to brave it and go in!

We continued our journey back around to Hippy Hollow. If you're from Texas I'm sure you've heard of it. It's the only real public beach type access to the lake, and it's beautiful! Since it was a nice 68* day we decided to get some sun. It gave me a great chance to take some pictures, and read my book in the quiet while listening to the water hit the rocks. True relaxation.

We left the beach once it started getting dark/ closing time, and headed home, listening to old country songs and laughing about them.
It was a great weekend...and it seemed like it was more than just a few days. I truly enjoyed spending quality time with my wonderful husband, as well as taking in the beauty of the area.

I know this post consist of a lot of links, but check them out!

Don't forget the YoPlus giveaway, time is almost up!

And the WORST B&B award goes to...

2009-02-23T12:13:00.016-06:00

Robins Nest Bed and Breakfast, Lake Travis

Saturday we met up with Dal's grandparents (in Madisonville, TX) and gave them our little angel for the week. We decided to hit the road and head to Austin to spend the weekend. I'm thinking, we'll get there and we'll get a crap hotel room we can afford, and buy a toothbrush and deodorant at Wal-Mart and enjoy our weekend in our favorite town. Well, apparently Dallas had something already in mind. He called this little place and reserved a room on Lake Travis. So..we drive, and we arrive at the Robin's Nest around 5 in the afternoon. Of coarse he checked with me for my okay before we even left Madisonville to Austin to get my approval on the room (I Phones are the best). I was delighted. Because this is what I see online:Anyhow, we drive up to this place and it looks so cute and eclectic. I'm excited. We meet the front desk girl, and she shows us to our room.

HOLY CRAP, what is wrong with this place? Seriously? This is what $200+ got me? Oh man, your website is a HUGE FRAUD!

Here is what the room actually looks like...

and I can't even discribe the filth on the floors (thank God I wore flipflops in February) or the musty smell it had.
We kept thinking, "How is this supposed to make you feel romantic, when all I want to do is run?" And "Why wouldn't you keep the room clean, and where the heck to you get this ugly junk from?" We were holding out hope that breakfast would redeem the situation...but instead this is what we ended up with:

Cold eggs, undercooked bacon, cold mushy potatoes, and rotting fruit salad on paper plates. YUM! Needless to say I give this place a negative 10 on my hotel stars rating!
Stay tuned for the good part of our weekend...

Chocolate Covered Cherries

2009-02-20T06:00:00.000-06:00

It's another cupcake post! I also made cherry filled cupcakes. Oh yeah, and they taste as good as they sound! I used the devils food cake mix, and filled them with melted cherry chips mixed with vanilla icing. I decided to cover these with Cherry flavoried icing. Having a three year old girl, means you use pink sprinkles on EVERYTHING!

Cupcakes Oh la la!

2009-02-19T06:00:00.003-06:00

Lately I'm in love with cupcakes. If I were to list ten jobs I'd love love love, owning my own cupcake shop would be like number 3. Sometimes I get ideas about the things I could do to the cupcakes to make them over the top. I must admit that I'm mostly lazy about them, I always use a box mix. Perhaps someday (in my old age) I will have the motivation to mix up my own batter from scratch. So this past weekend I decided that a raspberry chocolate cupcake sounds divine..and romantic. (sigh) So I sat out to mix up my devils food cake and bake 'em up!

Now where would I get this raspberry flavor? I know that jar of preserves in my fridge that I rarely find a use for...mix it with some vanilla icing (from a jar of coarse) and wallah!

Once my cupcakes cooled I simply used a melon baller to scoop out a small amount from the top, and filled it with a little bit of my magic mix. I let the icing set up for just a bit, and proceeded to top with chocolate icing. I failed to take an after pic...but you get the idea.

A great change for your ho hum cupcakes. And in a way a little sophisticated.

Bums! Freaking Bums!

2009-02-18T16:34:00.003-06:00

Six months ago we bought our house...on the Houston side of Katy. It's very close to the busiest intersection in the area. I-10 and Fry if you're familiar with the area. Every single day it's like bum central around there. I find it highly annoying that I see the same people out there day in and day out with the same sign. And how do the homeless always seem to have a sharpie?!
A few of my favorites include a middle aged to older man, seems to be in perfectly good health...chain smoking name brand cigarettes on his way to the middle of the road. Then he whips out his sign he stole from a restaurant that paid a lot of money to have those signs made, and with a black marker wrote: "Stranded, anything will help" I think to myself every time I see him, how are you stranded? You clearly don't have a broken down beater on the side of the road, you've been rocking the same sign/ excuse for months now, and how can you afford your habit. You walk so obviously you live close by. My second favorite is the couple, for a sign they have the white side of a children's folder (spider man) with a long sad story about how they are about to be evicted, lost their jobs, and they even have a couple of pictures of their kids on it. Sad! They take turns, sometimes the girl is out there, some times the man. Pretty much every nice day they are out there. I have respect for the less fortunate that are out there selling the Chron. I get that. Good for them for doing something. I have been slowly getting more and more annoyed by the Bums, it seems there are more of them, more often. What bothers me the most is that they stare at you right into your car window like you're a piece of crap for not rolling down your window and giving them your hard earned dough. I'm a firm believer in helping people out, but when your out there everyday for as often and as long as the recently mentioned bums, you have ample time to find a job. I know it's a really bad economy...people fall on hard times, but I also pass about a zillion places that say "We're hiring" within 3 miles of said intersection. In example: Pizza Hut, the car wash, Jack in the Box.
I try not to be a snob, but we've all seen the dateline or whatever showing the "panhandlers" who make 100G's a year doing just that. The radio station was even talking about a website today that someone put out to support a local bum. http://www.ascendgence.com/pimpthisbum/index.aspx yes that's right, you can pay for "stuff" that he wants to go into a trust fund to get him off the streets...you can watch him on the live cam. How freaking nuts is this? It's going too far. The intersection he works is not too far from where I live.
What brought this on? Why is this white girl getting all crazy over something that happens all day in every city? Well...today I'm at a trashy gas station/ post office mailing off a few packages. I walk out to my car and I'm flagged down by two young enough ladies in a NEW as in a 2008 model Tahoe and the driver says to me "Sweetie, can you do me a favor? See we're trying to buy groceries, and I just lost my job..." I being the nice girl that I am, not wanting to get attacked and dragged to the back of a ghetto gas station and killed, I simply say (the truth) "I don't carry cash, sorry!" and continue on. SERIOUSLY?! Did you not just see the car I'm getting into vs. your brand freaking new really expensive gas guzzling environment killing machine? Sell your car, get out there and turn some tricks, I don't care, but how dare you have the gall to ask me for money!? Trash!

Buckeyes

2009-02-17T18:56:00.005-06:00

Over the weekend I decided to try out the Buckeyes that I saw on Schweet 'N Savory. I highly recommend any of Melissa's recipes. She's an amazing girl! So here's how mine turned out: I also decided to dip a few pretzel rods in chocolate while I had a batch heated up already. I included these in a special package that will show up in a later post!

YoPlus Giveaway

2009-02-10T06:00:00.000-06:00

The great people at Yo-Plus have sent me 3 Yo-Plus gift bag that includes a coupon for a free 4-pack of Yo-Plus yogurt, Yoplait cooler tote bag, water bottle and a nutrition journal to share with my readers so that they can try the new flavor of Yo-Plus:
Blueberry Acaí!Blueberry Acaí Yo-Plus is a creamy, fruit-flavored yogurt with live and active probiotic cultures that help regulate your digestive health year-round. Yo-Plus also is a good source of fiber, calcium and vitamins A & D.
Even better, Yo-Plus is now offering a $1.50 off downloadable coupon for a 4-pack of yogurt here. Also visit www.Yo-Plus.com for tips on how to maintain a balanced life and additional information.
All you have to do is tell me in a comment if you eat yogurt to stay healthy, and your favorite flavor.
For a second entry, become a follower (or be a follower) and leave a second comment.
For a third entry, blog a link back to the giveaway, and leave me a comment that you did.
Hurry, random drawing will occur February 25th!
(For non-Blogland people, please leave your email address in case you win!)

To Little Stars Dancers:

2009-02-09T06:00:00.002-06:00

$117?! Really?!
And for what? A "trophy" and a leotard that she can obviously never wear again because guess what she's 3, she's growing, and I highly doubt you'll choose the same color scheme for next year (if your "company" stayed open that long to begin with).
I pay you $40 a month for you to come in for 30 minutes a week to teach my daughter to spin around and blow kisses. As if the Christmas pageant wasn't enough of a hassle, and might I add fairly expensive as well, you expect me to cough up more than a monthly gas bill for you to allow my daughter to shake it on stage (providing her three year old mind doesn't get distracted and stop all together) for 3.5 minutes while another little girl keeps running around like a chicken on stage ruining my photo ops. Complete bull!
It's bad enough that she thinks you're cool and looks up to you, and the one time I ever even see you you're dressed like a 15 year old slut, except you're almost middle aged! Put some freaking clothes on. Clearly you're not a parent, or have much respect for the parents and guests that were attending the Christmas show.
I believe by this point you can expect to no longer see my monthly payments to you or your company. And I'm pretty sure that after the nice little note about paying you out the rear for something now that doesn't happen 'til June you sent home with all the little kiddo's I won't be the only parent dropping this mess during these economic hard times.

Happy Dancing! NOT!

Obviously I'd never give this real letter to her, soo I'll write a nice short not like such: thanks for the opportunity to allow Neely to dance with you, however at this time we feel it is best that she no longer is enrolled in Little Stars.

Zoo

2009-02-07T21:18:00.008-06:00

Saturday we decided to go to the Zoo, we've never been to the Houston Zoo, and 39online has a list of free things to do about town, so we picked a few museums we wanted to check out in that area as well.
1st we broke our "no eating out at all this month" policy to try Cafe Adobe (the best margarita in town). It was not, and our waiter sucked. I'd rather eat crap food that have a crap waiter. So that set the tone for the rest of the day I think. We were mad at ourselves for breaking our rule for something that didn't turn out so great.
We head to the Herman park area, where we sat in bumper to bumper traffic for 1 whole hour to only find out that they have all the parking lots closed off. It was packed, and we were royally angry. Neely knew that there was a surprise but we didn't tell her it was the zoo.
So we hit up two museums, which weren't terrible, okay the first one was crap (but it was free) I just expected more. And during the second one, which is rumored to have a real Dali, Neely got all grumpy and pouty so we had to leave before we even got to it. Grr, somewhat annoyed, but truth is it was supposed to be a fun day for her and not me...so on we go. We walked around the neighborhood, which again is something I love. Me and Dallas are house looking junkies. We love to drive around and just look at houses and talk about what we like about 'em and guess how much they are typically going for. Probably if I wasn't so lazy and the market wasn't so bad I'd dream of being a realtor. In any case I love love a craftsman/ bungalow/ 1930's style house. LOVE THEM! My absolute dream is a cute somewhat updated one in a ecliptic neighborhood.
I took a few pics of the few I liked the most and the features I love about that style of house...besides a claw foot tub and wood floors.
Later we visited the big wall fountain next to the William's building in the Galleria area. It's amazing if you've never seen it. A bit cold when the wind blows the water on you. but worth it!If you've never seen the William's building (i.e. non-Houston folk) it's "the largest non-downtown building" in the state. Click the link it's got all that info. Dal's great great uncle (or something) used to be the president of the company that owned it and he occupied the top floor, YIKES! It really is freakishly tall, and I got sick just thinking about being that high...well Dallas of course tricks Miss Gullible/ Miss Not Scarred into thinking she can climb to the top, so I took a pic of her attempt. She kept saying "Come on, just give me a push, we can do it together." So I guess it's okay that we never made it to the zoo, it turned out to be an alright day in spite of the crap waiter, simi-okay margarita, and the hour of traffic to no where.

kEeLy RiPpA!

2009-02-06T06:00:00.002-06:00

Let me just share with you my dream: Kelly Rippa makes me want to own this, the commercial makes me believe that it will change my life and put me back in control of my laundry problems. 18 minutes of wash time!? Wash and Dry in 32 minute?! It's like a gift from the laundry fairy herself.
Ohhh if only!

In the mean time 'til we win the lottery that we don't play....I will continue to wash 5 items at a time, and dry them 2 times at 70 minutes each. Lay out on the back of every freestanding chair and wait for them to continue to dry out.

JUST IN CASE

2009-02-05T12:49:00.003-06:00

YOU WERE WONDERING " WHAT DOES LAURA WANT FOR HER BIRTHDAY?"
'cause I'm sure everyone wants to know
A grill pan (soo not an expensive one, walmart brand prefered)
A dremel drill
a gift card to hobby lobby or to home depot
Dinner at the Cheesecake Factory (yeah prob not)
Hour Massage (okay just wishful thinking)

Feb 25th!

TV JUNKY?

2009-02-05T06:00:00.000-06:00

I have decided to share with you a list of the CURRENT TV shows I watch EVERY week. Let me just say that it's a challenge for us to keep our DVR's from being too full, and we have to have two to be able to record 4 shows at a time. I'm a total tv junky...and probably my quality of life as well as my kids would improve if I could give up a few of these:

CHUCK- 1hr NBC

NIP/TUCK- 1 hr FX

90210- 1 hr CW

HOUSE- 1 hr FOX

CSI- 1hr CBS

PRIVLIDGED- 1hr CW

SECRET LIFE OF THE AMERICAN TEENAGER- 1hr ABC FAM

ELEVENTH HOUR- 1hr CBS

COLD CASE- 1 hr CBS

BONES- 1hr FOX

CRIMINAL MINDS- 1hr CBS

MEDIUM- 1hr NBC

THE OFFICE- 30 min NBC

30 ROCK- 30 min NBC

WITHOUT A TRACE- 1hr CBS

FRINGE- 1hr FOX

UGLY BETTY- 1hr ABC

CONFESSIONS OF A CALL GIRL- 30 min SHO

SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE- 1.5hr NBC

What shows do you love and can't live without?

Love Day Meltdowns

2009-02-04T06:00:00.000-06:00

During my few seconds of Internet searching...I found a link to this on MSN:
V-day horror stories. So I want to share with you mine, and I'd love to hear a few of yours
Fuzzy dreamy squiggly lines:
Valentines 2003:
Me and Dallas had just started "dating" as much dating as you can do when one of you lives in Boston and the other one lives in Tyler (TX). Lets just say IM is the best in the world for long distance. Dallas surprised me and came home for Valentines. So he's heading over to my house and we're gonna go out for dinner. I'm in the bathroom doing my hair when he shows up. So I invite him in, and start talking to him about how I'd gotten an early birthday gift from an unnamed source earlier that day. Gold (I never wear gold) heart shaped earrings. I was so not in a girly state of mind, and although they were a great expensive gift, one I'd never use. I go on and on about "I think heart shaped jewelery is tacky" (which I do, it's like the equivalent of the hoop earrings with your name across 'em in flashy cheap gold) "I'll never wear 'em because they are stupid hearts." I go on and on 'til I'm done curling my hair. Then we are about to head out the door and he gives me his gift.
A heart box with a necklace, with you guessed it, a heart shaped pendent! Oh I felt awful. Ashamed. I could see his fear of my disappointment in his eyes. The rest of the night went great...but I've always felt terrible for saying that. And now anytime he buys me anything he's always afraid I'll hate it.
P.S. A few weeks later my dog's toenail got caught on the chain and broke it so I had to stop wearing it, which didn't look good since he'd stayed home from Boston for the whole month of February to spend more time with me.
Okay squiggly lines back to reality.... tell me your horror story for a past love day!

Bleeding Love

2009-02-03T06:16:00.000-06:00

These are my bleeding love cupcakes.

Basically I just used the box mix, and added the cherry chips into the batter. The cherry chips look like a bloody mess when they melted up, hence my name for 'em.

They are so delish! And I plan on making another batch up for Valentines.

Giveaway

2009-02-02T12:43:00.000-06:00

http://priscillabakes.blogspot.com/2009/02/valentines-day-giveaway.html

PRISCILLA HAS ANOTHER GIVEAWAY! CHECK IT OUT. AND GOOD LUCK.

Yorkie

2009-02-02T05:33:00.002-06:00

I saw this being made on a Food Network show during the holiday's and was dying to try it. I actually made this a while back and I'm just now getting around to sharing. It's so easy I was in shock.

Yorkie Puddings - Desert Style
Preheat Oven 450*
Fill muffin tin with 2 tsp of vegie oil and place in oven to get nice and hot.
3/4 c. flour
1/2 tsp. salt
2 eggs
1 c. milk
(I added Orange Zest and a pinch of sugar)
Mix it up.
Pull the muffin tin out and fill each cup with equal portions of the batter. This is my favorite part they start to fry and it looks like a tiny funnel cake.
Place back in the hot oven and bake for 20-30 minutes. These puppies get HUGE!
Take 'em out, and punch a hole in the top. Fill with marmalade, and whipping cream, drizzle with raspberry preserves, eat while warm if possible.
DIVINE! You can use any size muffin tin you wish, I used the jumbo size.

New Creations

2009-02-01T17:24:00.007-06:00

I have got the inspiration running through me. I want to craft my bum off, and let me just say it's very difficult to worry with the house cleaning and laundry when all I want to do is craft! Anyhow, I have decided I want to try my hand and jewelry making. So here's my first two creations. You can check them out on my Etsy store, please share with your friends, as I have added a few more items this week. Keep checking back as I'll add new stuff as soon as I get it made up.
I also want to share the winner of my Giveaway- Misty! Congrats! Thanks to the very few people who entered.

The Cookie Gods

2009-01-30T20:32:00.004-06:00

Tonight I decided to make some Banana Pudding. The cheap and easy way. I'm all instant!
I've got it chilling in the fridge, and I can't wait for it to get "firm."
And you're thinking "Isn't she on a diet?" Let me just say it is no fun. I'm starving people!!! If I eat one more freaking Special K bar (90 calories) I'm going to die. Just die. I'm an emotional EATER. Not a Nibbler. I want so badly to be a little toothpick...I do, but something tells me that I'm always going to have the inter tube around my hips. (Genetics is my excuse) I love sweets, and lately I've actually had the urge to do some cooking/baking. Soooo, I'm not giving up, I will continue to cut back, but the Cookie Gods spoke to me in a dream last night.
To start the whole story: A couple of weeks ago I was looking frantically for my Spanks. (Heaven sent) I could not find them anywhere. Grr! I was so frustrated, and knew then being the frugal freak that I am that I could not go out and spend my hard earned $'s on a new pair. It's hard enough to tell your husband that you just spent a ton on "granny panties" that come up to your boobs, let alone ever let him see you in 'em. So back to the Cookie Gods, they sent me an image of the exact location of my Spanks. In the front pocket of my luggage. I am saved, and I can eat cookies again! Or Banana Pudding!

Giveaway

2009-01-30T07:18:00.001-06:00

http://shabbynest.blogspot.com/2009/01/grand-opening-giveaway.html

I heart Shabby Nest...Windy is my hero...so go check her out and get entered for the giveaway!

Movie Review

2009-01-27T06:00:00.000-06:00

In the past two weeks we've really been hitting the movies hard. So I'd like to share with you my opinion on 'em...mostly because I have nothing else to share.
My Bloody Valentine- sick sick sick...bloody as it sounds. 3D made it much worse, and I hate not knowing what's gonna jump out from behind the corner. I will give it this, you go back and forth on who the villain is...and that part was good. I give it a 2 out of 5.
The Curious Case of Benny Button- Freaking great chick flick. Cried like a baby during most of it, had a Forest Gump feel to it, however it lasted for 3 hours...and maybe I'd rather had rented it at a later date because of the length. 4 out of 5.
Now for my Rentals:
Brides head Revisited- Regret I spent the dollar at the red box. I swear it felt like 5 hours of gay gay gay drunk drunk gay. And I have nothing against gays...but don't fake that you're not one. Had an old-timmy Talented Mr. Ripply feel to it. BUT BORING. 0 out of 5. At least the big house was cool to see.
My Best Friend's Girl- I hate Dane Cook there is nothing funny about his stand up. This movie however was cute even if you knew right where the plot was going. 3.5 out of 5.
Momma Mia- I expected bad. I mean it's a musical to ABBA...way before my time. I thought, well better rent it while the hubby is at work. If I hadn't been sitting on the floor crafting I'd probably turned it off in the first 5 minutes. DON'T waste your time..buy the soundtrack if you like ABBA, but the movie was the worst plot ever. 1 out of 5.
The Women- I love most of the girls that are in this movie...but the storyline wasn't that great. I guess because I watch so many of the "Sex in the City" "Lipstick Jungle" "Army Wives" "Starter Wife" that I'm burned out on the plot. I can see where it might be liberating for a middle aged woman going through a divorce...but not so much for me. 3.5 out of 5.

And there you have it...my movie reviews. Hope they help you next time you're at the Red Box.

Another Giveaway today

2009-01-26T14:42:00.001-06:00

http://www.jerseybites.com/2009/01/win-it-wednesday-sponsored-by-sunsweet.html

Givaway by a great blogger-

2009-01-26T10:04:00.001-06:00

http://wickedgooddinner.blogspot.com/2009/01/ugliest-oven-mitt-giveaway.html

Check this give away out...it's too funny. I'd never thought to much about it, but my mitts are all nasty. So I will be going home and taking my pics to add. Happy mitt digging. I bet my mom can find some really great ones way back in the bottom of the drawer! (wink wink)

Margaritaville

2009-01-26T06:00:00.002-06:00

In a desperate need to use up the lemons and limes before they go bad I decided to make "Margarita Cookies"
adapted from Pampered Chef Classic Spritz Cookies
3 sticks butter
1 cup sugar
1 egg
3 1/2 cups flour
lemon/ lime zest to taste
lemon/ lime juice to taste

Blend butter, sugar, and egg well. Blend in one cup at a time of the four until well mixed. Put in a cookie press (pampered chef really pricey and I swear you'll never use it) and press out. You could no doubt do this by making little balls and pressing with the bottom of a glass dipped in sugar. Bake at 350* for 12 or so minutes. You can tell when they are getting done by the color and the firmness.

Green icing:
green food coloring
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp milk
mix up and drizzle over the cookies before it hardens
Add sprinkles if you like

Happy Baking, and or drinking!

Sawyer

2009-01-25T07:00:00.001-06:00

My cousin Chris and his wife Scotti are having a little boy...Sawyer. I'm very excited. So this is a little teaser for you Scotti- as soon as I figure out this whole sewing thing, I've got a surprise up my sleeve for you.

Something silly

2009-01-24T07:00:00.002-06:00

I picked these up a while back: They are terracotta eggs that have seeds and soil in them. I was hoping to sprout some mint and lemon grass, however I digress. I have managed to kill an ivy, let the basil get dried up and droopy, and not even get any sort of sprout or hairs out of these. They are so cute, but I have black thumbs. So good bye little silly egg heads. RIP

Lazy Sunday Cookies

2009-01-23T07:00:00.003-06:00

Sunday our friend Aurthur ran the half Houston Marathon, then he came to our house. He ran in his "goal" time. So I'm super proud of him. So knowing a few other people would be dropping by the house I knew I needed to have something sweet around for snacking on. So I made the Hubby's favorite things that his grandmother makes him on holiday's.
I used to call them Dino Poop when I was a kid.
Dino Poop
1 cup Karo (corn) syrup
1 cup sugar
1 1/2 cups peanut butter
4 cups special k

Heat to a boil the corn syrup and sugar, add a the peanut butter then pour over the special K, mix well and drop onto wax paper to dry (aka harden up).

Sexxy little things (I wish)

2009-01-22T07:30:00.001-06:00

This past weekend I was all set to craft my butt off. However on Friday night I got home and started playing with my new sewing machine (thank you again awesome hubby!) and I had some continued issues with the bottom string getting tangled up. Being the least patient person in the world I lost my temper and decided to move on. I began to make a few journals, which I will be posting to my Etsy shop. THAT'S RIGHT! I created one!

So come Saturday, Hubby's first day off in a while, and we were kid free, I decided I had cabin fever...we had to get out. So we went to this neat little area of Houston off of Westheimer near Montrose. They have awesome vintage clothing shops as well as old furniture stores. Not to mention that all the houses in that area are bungalows and craftsman style (my dream). It's "up and coming" but I think it's just like heaven. Plus it reminds me of Austin, and I'm sure that's another reason we went. So being that all the shops had the vintage clothing, nothing fits this old gal, except these fabulous shoes. I got a steal on these Kenneth Cole's for $20 at Taxi Taxi. Now if only I could find something to wear with 'em. Sometimes I forget to act like I'm only 23 (almost 24) but I will be daring with these sexy little things.

1st Giveaway

2009-01-20T21:04:00.003-06:00

In an attempt to apologize to my few readers (for not having a post in quite some time), and hopefully intrigue a few more, I am giving away on of my original paintings.
I painted it last month, and it's in a medium blue and black. The canvas is small, so you can put it in a little area. Or just do like my mom and put it on a little plate stand...hers turned out rather cute...too bad I don't have a picture to share. So here it is:
Just leave me a comment, and if you do not have a blog, just leave your email address. I'll do a random drawing on Feb 1st. and ship it to ya! And again, Sooo sorry I've neglected Blogland.

Correction to Pics

2009-01-12T09:11:00.005-06:00

So here are the pics that should be with the last post, I'm sick of trying to edit this and the truth is I dont have time, so guess where they go, and use your imagination. Thanks, and sorry guys

Finally....

2009-01-08T20:45:00.003-06:00

I know, I know, it's been a while since I've posted anything. I've been so busy (doing nothing but being beat down from work), and I'm trying to work out, some days, but more than that I'm actually trying to cook. Blogging at work is not going to fit into my schedule. So here I sit thinking about how I need to take a bath, and get my lazy bum to bed but I must must must share with you....

The funniest thing ever that I noticed as I was picking Neely up from daycare yesterday. She does not have a brother or a sister! Oh the lies she can tell these days!

Dallas agreed to allow me to get a cocker spaniel, however www.cockerkids.org has not returned my calls, or my email application...and after watching Oprah today I'm more on board with his plan to pay on the credit card debt. Ohh man, I'm such a sucker for inspirational TV. However if you haven't been watching Oprah this week, this has been the week to watch, life changing! TIVO!
I must share with you my Canton find: $6.50, I'm not kidding. I know I need to put candles in them, but that would require me to go to the dollar store and buy everything I see. (I'm a total dollar store junkie, and I'm trying to rid myself of my addictions!) I was going to hang this adorableness on my covered patio, however Dallas convinced me that it'd look nice in the bed room, and I'm always about a little more glam in my life! Especially in the bedroom. Bowchiawowow! Just kidding.
So I also have been cooking as I mentioned before. I think it is much better than going out to eat because I wont be tempted by the yummy greasy fatty goodness that is most restaurant food. I made this lovely crab over salmon with roasted potatoes and grilled zucchini the other night... and might I say I was impressed with myself. So far I'm doing okay, I haven't gotten upset and started to eat all the sweets in site!
I also have been doing a tad bit of crafting- I painted these cards, that I plan on selling via an etsy(or whever it is) store whenever I get around to that....some day.And so next time my friends I will let you know all about my sewing machine fiasco!

A give away by an Awesome Blogger!

2009-01-06T09:36:00.002-06:00

Go check her page out, and leave your comment to enter the give away...I've won some kids yogurt on her site before...plus she's awesome!
http://priscillabakes.blogspot.com/

As if anyone really wants to know this....

2008-12-31T21:51:00.006-06:00

This is the way cute sewing basket that Allison got me. I can't wait to start using it.
Come Sunday the Christmas decor is coming down, and I'm going to start moving my crafty/ sewing stuff into the house. Working on my game plan in my head right now!
In a continued attempt to get the smoke smell out the house, (grr stupid fire place) I made up yet another large batch of my potpourri. Not really doing the trick..since my husband brought home his left overs of our last fried fatty food night out. Yes, that is indeed one chicken fried steak. Four bites in and he was full, so now it's stinking up the fridge to haunt me every time someone opens the door to get a refill. I'm doomed to horrible smells. WHY ME GOD?!
As I mentioned, we are doing nothing for New Years Eve...we went out to eat at a Texas steak house...where I sucked down a wonderful bacon cheese burger.
I'm excited, and in the same way frightened to fail at giving up everything I love ohh so much. FOOD! Not diet food, good flavorful, junky- junk food. The nasty stuff that makes you feel all warm and cozy inside, and sometimes a little fat and yucky later.
In any case, I am proud to announce.....
that this little guy made his way into my home last night, and I'm now the proud member of a gym.
I'm going to enjoy my weekend to the fullest, and then I'll begin my attempt to be "healthier" since I refuse to set a "goal", that way I won't feel like a failure.
I'll spend the rest of my week visiting my mom, spending my husbands hard earned dollars at Canton, and I'll be back next week with pics of the cool Christmas gifts we got, (admittedly I did not take very many pics) and all the great finds I get at Canton...as well as how my first meeting with the trainer goes.
Hope your wonderful year starts when the ball drops!

New Years

2008-12-30T09:29:00.003-06:00

I'm going to keep this short and simple. I've been so busy and worn out with the Holiday's that I've made zero effort to post anything or update my pictures, let alone get them from the camera to the computer. Soon my dears..soon.
I'm going to spend the weekend with my BFF Allison, we're going to my mom's in Tyler, and then to Canton Trades Days. Whooohhooo! Hopefully it won't be too cold, so we can shop our bums off. I can't wait, it's been a while since I've been...and I'm always up for a little bargain shopping. She's never been, and since we're both very crafty people, it's right up our ally. If you ever get the chance to go, DO IT! And bring along lots of dough...if you're like me.
Speaking of Allison, she's the best...she got me the cutest sewing basket for a late Christmas present. Will have to add a pic later...I love love love it. I mean I truly heart it. It's going to be just what I need to get my move on with my sewing set up. Check out her blog at http://findinginspirationinfood.blogspot.com/
Sooo...
The night before last our fire place magically restarted itself, and filled our whole house with smoke. (What the crap, why didn't the smoke go up the chimney?) GRR! My whole house smells like smoke, and I'm taking tips and tricks to get that cleared out. Leave me your suggestions please. I'm desperate. If you know me I'm a spaz about any type of smell. I probably dedicate way too much of my time and money towards "making my world smell great" as I like to say. So ten bottles of febreeze later, we still can smell it a little, which is a lot to me.
I think I may be having to give up on my hope for a new dog. It's probably not the right time, certainly not financially. I'm going to be patient and see what happens...but I'm hoping that I can distract myself with some other things for now.
Now onto the New Years, which is what I intended this post to be about.
I received this email from someone today, and it really made me think a lot about the things I've been kicking around in my head for the New Year.

I am your constant companion.I am your greatest asset or heaviest burden.I will push you up to success or down to disappointment.I am at your command.Half the things you do might just as well be turned over to me,For I can do them quickly, correctly, and profitably.I am easily managed, just be firm with me.Those who are great, I have made great.Those who are failures, I have made failures.I am not a machine, though I work with the precision of a machine and the intelligence of a person.You can run me for profit, or you can run me for ruin.Show me how you want it done. Educate me. Train me.Lead me. Reward me.And I will then...do it automatically.I am your servant.Who am I?I am a habit.
The author of the above is unknown

I'm always very negative about the whole "resolution" idea...probably because I'm the worst at committing to something. But I really have a goal this year, and I have some I'd like my loved ones to make as well, I guess I'm just thinking if I can do it, they can do it, we can maybe feed off of each other.
So this year I'm resulting to make myself more healthy. I intend to exercise (some), eat a little better, and try to drop (a couple of) pounds. Baby steps right?! I also want to take this year to try new things, focus on my hobbies, find a goal for my career or at least "five year plan" and take the steps to make that happen. And most importantly, I'm resulting to only allow the positive loving people with my best interest at heart into my bubble. I will no longer allow people who upset me to put me in the position to be upset.
I wish everyone a safe and Happy New Year, and much luck with your resolutions.

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-24T08:36:00.005-06:00

Well, we're in Tyler now...and it's very warm for what most people would consider Christmas...but I'm okay with that! I hate bulky sweaters anyhow!

I just want to wish everyone a safe and happy Christmas, and remind everyone to take time to remember what this is really all about. That's right..."Baby Jesus"!

I'd also like to invite everyone to enjoy my favorite Christmas song!

So enjoy this magical time of year, show the ones you love how special they are to you, and I will be back soon with lots of updates!

All Partied Out

2008-12-19T11:15:00.006-06:00

Last night's party was great. It actually turned out to be more fun than I had expected. The food was great! I had salmon with crab meat and a butter sauce, soo good...and Italian Wedding cake for desert...amazing. I'm deffinately going back to the resturant for more of that goodness! I also recieved some lovely gifts. I will have to tell you all about them at a later time.

Me & Allison

David (my boss), His wife Laura, Gene, Sally, Darrin (my other boss), Allison, Gene's wife Pat, Mark, Me, and DallasAllison & Darin

Justin is home...and I'm very excited to be able to spend time with him. Our weekend plans include a football game tomorrow night at Reliant...and I'm sure laundry on Sunday!

I've just in the last few days decided that I really want to adopt a cocker spaniel from a rescue in Houston. I'm trying to talk Dal into it. Wishful thinking....sigh!

Potpourri

2008-12-18T09:05:00.006-06:00

So in the rush to get my baked goods done, I come up with yet another idea. Orange spice potpourri. Oh yes. I made it...in addition to covering litterally all of my brite white counter tops in chocolate.

I sliced Oranges, and Lemons and baked in the oven for a few hours on a low temp. I mixed in ground cinnamon, nutmeg, whole cloves, ground cloves, cinnamon sticks, bay leaves, and whole all spice. I added a few drops of orange and cinnamon oil from the craft store, and my house smells sooo good. It takes a few days for it to dry out completely...but well worth dedicating a bit of foil covered countertop to! I will be using this as hostes gifts during this busy time.

I also wanted to share a sneak peek at the first fabric I bought that is waiting very patiently in my closet to get turned into something fab!

So stay tuned and cross your fingers for me that a) I find the time b) it truly can become something great with my limited skills.

Tonight will be my work Christmas party, I'll share pictures soon...at least of me in my new black dress! wink wink!

And the best news yet when I wake up in the morning...this handsome guy (my brother Justin) will be at my house!

This will be his first Christmas home since 2004! I can't wait!

A GREAT GIVEAWAY!

2008-12-17T14:10:00.003-06:00

http://ravingsofamadhousewife.blogspot.com/2008/12/its-fiesta-giveaway.html

GO FORTH MY PEOPLE AND POST YOUR COMMENT TO GET ENTERED. GOOD LUCK!

No Fire Needed Smores

2008-12-17T12:44:00.006-06:00

In a rushed effort to get some neighbor/ daycare teacher gifts. I decide to make chocolate covered marshmallows on a skewer. I've seen these in our local Nestle store, and I'm always tempted to buy one...but will continue to keep that $4 in my pocket. All I did was dip marshmellows threaded on a skewer in melted chocolate bark. I took it a step further and rolled them in crushed graham crackers to give them the smores taste. Set out on wax paper and let dry.
Happy indoor camping!

A Quick One

2008-12-17T10:08:00.004-06:00

I haven't much time...but I'd like to share with you the book that I just completed.

It's really good! And I highly suggest you cuddle up and read this one sometime soon. I happened upon it in the discount book store, and being the way I am, I buy the book based on the size of it (as in is it easy to hold in bed) and the art on the cover. If it looks neat, then it's bound to be good. Well that held true to this one.

This book really pulled at my heart strings, and it makes you wonder who's holding what secrets to themselves. It's got a great story of a woman who does the most selfless things for a special needs child, and a great story of how a young boy always tired to live up to his fathers expectations. You can read an excerpt here: http://www.memorykeepersdaughter.com/excerpt.html

All the excitement

2008-12-15T14:25:00.005-06:00

Well last night I made it home with my new to me antique sewing machine. Very excited. I will be posting pictures soon. Sadly this may take me a while as I have to remove my Christmas tree from the place it's at in order to put the machine in the house (where I want it). I will also have to get it cleaned up and check out if it's in "working order."
This project must be on hold because Holy Cow it's almost Christmas and I'm not prepared! Our fridge is bare, and I've got no desire to fight the crowds to shop. However we must buck up and head to the Wal-Mart tonight in the freezing cold might I add. This morning started out nice and toasty, and being the mother that would rather not fight with a three year old, I decided it would be safe to go coat/jacket free today. Boy was I wrong, it got cold fast, and I've been worried about my baby getting frost bite all day (not really but sick is a real possibility).
So my list is made, and I'm begging God to magically give me a few more hours in the day to finish my "gift giving baking" up before our work Christmas party on Thursday, or at least wishing for the hidden laundry/ bathroom cleaning fairy to come out of hiding. Oh to dream!
My brother will be arriving Friday morning (2AM) from San Diego. I'm very excited to get ten whole days with him. It'll be his first Christmas home since the year before he left for the Navy (2004). I can't wait! I'm sure he'll get bored of being with his big sister by day two, but oh well, if I find the energy maybe we can explore some activities that the Houston/Katy area has to offer.
Neely is already asking "what are you getting me for Christmas" every chance she can. As well as hinting or just bluntly putting it that she'd like a new dog. It's so hard to tell her sweet face no!
Soo, today will be our shopping and preparing the house for our guest night...chores are so much fun. And hopefully within the next few days I can get a lovely picture of my new favorite piece of furniture up to share, as well as some of the items that will be given as gifts this year (unless I burn down the kitchen).
I leave you with my recommendation for a great book: P.S. I love you, I enjoyed the audio book during my trip this weekend. Not as great as the movie, but very good just the same. Check it out!

As requested:

2008-12-13T21:27:00.011-06:00

My Aunt Donna has made her request for more pics...and since I've not had a whole lot of new happenings, I'm gonna post a few from the past, and maybe get some feedback on my attempt at this photography thing.

Today me and Mom went to do a little shopping, and pre-made our Xmas dressing (some call it stuffing) to freeze 'til the 25th. We also went to the dreaded during this time of year Wal-Mart to pick up the last gift I needed for Neely. That really cool camera. Oh what a mess, you'd think that there were no other stores in Lindale, Texas. Ha ha, there aren't.
This afternoon I went with my cousin (Chris) and his adorable family to take their Christmas card pictures since the photographer they were booked with flaked out at the last minute. Sucks for them, I lack talent! But I like this one. They are such great people, and I enjoy my time I get to spend with them. And yes, there is a baby growing in that little belly...Yippy! I just can't wait.

A few weeks back we visited the rose gardens in Houston close to the Memorial Herman Hospital. They have a wonderful park, with a train for the children, playgrounds, as well as all sorts of musems in a short walking distance. I took advantage of the warm sunny day to try out some of my first photography skills.
My garden fairy!
This next picture I really like. I took it last weekend in (downtown) Austin right off of 8th street while getting back into my husbands truck. It's the sidewalk beside a bridge with the railing shadow. It made me wonder who had walked on that sidewalk, and since I was wearing painfully cute shoes, what sort of shoes they were wearing! They were probably painfully cute shoes on the way to the many trendy clubs in that area, but it's always nice to step back and think of who else has made the same steps we have. I'd like to think we all can learn from eachothers steps...or just learn to wear more comfortable shoes! And so I leave you with a lovely picture of a sail boat on Lake Travis from last weekend. It's a great picture to use as a "happy place" though I have never been sailing, I can only imagine it as totally relaxing.

A little peek into what's been happening lately

2008-12-12T13:14:00.009-06:00

I figure since I'm new at this, I can catch you up on a few things that have gone on lately.

Sunday Me and Dallas were bored, with no kid around, so we made the most of our day and headed over to Austin...and ate dinner at the Oasis on Lake Travis. I highly recommend this for a good time..plus the drinks are great! wink wink.

The day before that was Neely's first ever dance recital. Oh boy was my baby the cutest one out there! Naturally being 3, she was not paying a bit of attention to the dance, but if she was she wouldn't have fit in with the other kids anyhow.

So this weekend I'm heading to my mom's, dread the drive, love the visits. It's our annual movie- hot cocoa night. Every year we pile up on the sofa in our PJ's and watch the best Christmas movie ever: Holiday Inn! Rent it if you can! I just love old movies that make your heart melt... plus I secretly wish I could be as elegant as the ladies were in all the old black and whites! Who doesn't?

I will also be visiting Dallas' grandmother (Nana) who is allowing me to borrow her sewing machine...I'm very excited! Now I will in fact have to go to one of my favorite stores and stock up on sewing supplies and fabric! I'm hoping that by the end of January I have some great projects to share!

I hope everyone has a super great weekend, safe shopping, and stay warm!

My First Blog

2008-12-11T12:50:00.002-06:00

Today I am starting my first blog as a place to add my ideas, neat things I come across, as well as keeping my friends and family updated on what is going on in my life.

I'm not making any such promises to continue to update on a daily or even weekly basis. And I'm also not making any promises that my blog will be fun or exciting to look at, as I feel that I have a ton to learn about jazzing this up. I mean please I never change my information on my "social networking" sites!

I hope that this provides me with feedback that I'm needing on my ideas and what my husband may call "schemes" to not work anymore and be a full time "crafter." Yeah, wish me luck on that one!!

In the next little while I plan to learn to sew, and I have a few ideas I'm kicking around with that.

I've already started to get into painting, and I'm overflowing with ideas, however a lack of time, and only my self taught talent to work with. I hope to be able to share my works when they come up.

I just recently became a first time home owner, and I'm very excited to have my own place to do what I like with, me and my husband, Dallas, have plans, and all the procrastination and laziness in the world to not follow through, but just the same I'm inspired and I will also be adding those projects as well when they come along.

I also love love love being a mom to my crazy little girl, Neely, and I will be adding updates I'm sure of the silly and interesting things that happen in our lives.

So all I can say is stay tuned, I have a goal to provide good things to come....and I'm always open to suggestions and ideas!