This Vintage Grove

Dear Winter,

2012-02-13T17:33:00.008-06:00

Thank you.....

I knew you would come through.

Now to end this lovely, lazy snow day with some chili, a roaring fire, and quality television (in the form of The Bachelor...........don't judge me).

Oh, feel free to visit again. And by that I mean bring snow.

Love,

Danavee

P.S. Don't worry. You won't see a "what I wore snow day". Two words: blue sweats. Enough said.

eeeekk, an update, and a recipe

2012-02-12T09:32:00.000-06:00

The eeeekk....

The Vanilla Tulip is featuring my blog this weekend, since I'm a new sponsor! She posted a short little bio that (I hope) sums up the essence of This Vintage Grove. It's like seeing my name in big, shiny lights. I'm sorta giddy.

* * * *

The update....

Do you remember the ironing board cover giveaway? Prepare yourself for the unveiling.....

After hitting up two stores for the perfect fabric, Schlager whipped it up yesterday! Cathy, we hope you love it. You will receive it this week!

If you wanna know how to d.i.y. head over to Spray Paint and a Staple Gun!!

* * * *

The recipe....

And lastly, for all of you who are searching the world over for the perfect pumpkin muffin....

I've found it (via Pinterest).

After trying four different recipes, this one is IT.

Maybe it's the streusel.

Could be the cream cheese filling.

Recipe!!!

Cute muffin liners never hurt either.

Pumpkin should be enjoyed year round people.

What I Wore.......

2012-02-08T07:00:00.000-06:00

With the threat of a "wintry mix" last night, I channeled my inner snow bunny yesterday.

I thought it might help bring a coveted snow day my direction.

It did not.

But the outfit was cozy, and in my delusional mind, I felt prepared for the slopes.

Even though Missouri has no slopes.

Anyway.

Last year, my fashion forward friend Ash would sometimes wear socks peeking from the top of her boots. While super cute on her, I had no confidence that I could pull it off.

Then I got a Pinterest account. Picture after picture of socks peeking out of boots later, I decided I needed to give it a shot.....

It felt very snow bunny-esque.

What else does a snow bunny wear? In my head, they wear longish sweaters, leggings, and scarves.....

But snow bunnies should be confident posers. Not confused looking.

Take two. Hands in pockets. Eyes cast downward. Yes, that'll work....

Hmmmm. Maybe not.

What is a snow bunny anyway?

I don't even know.

Thrifting Frenzy

2012-02-04T22:15:00.085-06:00

An embroidered pillowcase......$1.98..........

Who doesn't love a flamingo or two?

I shall be keeping the flamingo pillowcase. I only wish there had been a pair.

* * * *

A full set of foam numbers in their original box..........$1.98........

The teacher in me couldn't resist them.

* * * *

Chevron afghan.......$3.98......love the color scheme....

To keep or to sell? That is the question. What say ye?

* * * *

Four vintage umbrellas........$9.92 in all.......

I may turn around if a black cat crosses my path. But opening umbrellas inside? Look who is unfazed.

I opened four.

In my kitchen.

What?

Linking up with Her Library Adventures!

And the winner is.....

2012-02-04T08:04:00.000-06:00

I do believe number 8 is Cathy!!!!

Yahooooooo!!!!!!!

Cathy, tell us what colors you like and if solids or patterns are your thing! We can't wait to shop for your fabric!

Thank you to everyone who participated!!!

A Cheap D.I.Y.

2012-01-31T17:17:00.002-06:00

I stumbled upon this project recently.......

source

And then I kicked myself for passing up a $2.00 spice rack the week prior. But another trip to the thrift store yielded a little beauty that would do just fine......

After that ivory coat of spray paint, which I already had in my stockpile of colors, the total for this little redo was $1.48........

What's that you say? You're distracted by my awesomely awful wallpaper?

Well, don't be jealous. My 1967 time capsule came with that loveliness.

I'll save a scrap for you when I rip it off the wall this summer. Please send me your address.

Linking up with "Whatever You Want Wednesday" annnnddd.......

A Giveaway

2012-01-28T11:53:00.006-06:00

This giveaway is now closed.

Thanks to everyone who participated!

Winner announced Saturday, Feb. 4th!

I cannot believe it, but this is my 300th post.

EEEKKK!

And that's cause for a celebration! So in order to share my excitement, I'm gonna host a little giveaway!!!

I recently won a giveaway myself (love her blog) and I thought because of my recent win and number 300 coming up, it was time to party.

Remember when my friend Schlager made a beautiful ironing board cover for me?

Well, she is ready to make one for YOU!

Schlager and I will work together to hand pick a lovely fabric and craft a standard size ironing board cover. Just. For. You.

You can do one or all of these things to win........Please leave separate comments for each thing you do!

Become a follower of This Vintage Grove via Google Friend Connect, email subscription, or RSS Feed and leave a comment saying you are a follower!!
Head over to Schlager's blog Spray Paint and a Staple Gun and become a follower! Come back here and comment saying you are a follower!
Write up your own post about this giveaway, linking back to This Vintage Grove. Come back and leave your link in a comment!

This giveaway will be open through Friday, February 3rd at 5:00 central time. I'll use random.org to determine the winner. The winner will be posted on Saturday, February 4th!

And if giveaways aren't for you, well, never fear! Schlager has a great tutorial you can follow to do it yourself!

Good luck!!!

Linking up with "Whatever You Want Wednesday!"

What I Wore.....Tuesday

2012-01-25T07:43:00.009-06:00

When you have an almost 60 degree winter day, you should wear a dress. But if you're gonna break out a dress, you should probably wear boots with tights too (it is January).

Belts that match your boots are fun.......

But posing in your classroom, under fluorescent lights, while trying to look natural never turns out good...........

At least the dress has pockets.

And my classroom rug has a chevron pattern.

Love and Hate

2012-01-22T09:37:00.000-06:00

In June of 1998, I bought my very first brand new car. Right off the lot. With only twelve miles on it.

That was a big day.

Here we are 14 years and a few miles later.

Speaking of miles. A milestone occurred this week.....

Your eyes do not deceive you. That says 150,000.

Which leads me to the love & hate segment of this post............

Love:

My car is obviously paid off. Not having a car payment is spectacular.
Insurance is cheap.
It doesn't look old. I've taken good care of it.
Despite the normal aging a car goes through, it has been a very reliable ride. Go Ford!

Hate:

Due to the normal aging a car goes through, I've had my share of stranded moments the last few years. And you never know when that will happen.
Because of those stranded moments, I took advantage of the free roadside assistance my insurance provided. Thus being dropped from the towing part of my policy.
The miles. 150,000 sounds scary.
I found three dime-sized paint bubbles recently. Peeling paint is not attractive.

* * * * *

If you weigh it out, I have more to love than hate. I have replaced just about every part that could fail in the last three or so years. So basically, I'm driving a new car.

And now I think I should just go knock on wood.

Thrifting Frenzy

2012-01-16T10:22:00.009-06:00

I will say this right off the bat......none of the featured items will be making it to my booth.

Vintage Lazy Susan anyone?

Mine was $2.98. I found one on ebay that sold for $23.00! It'll be holding cinnamon and oregano before you know it.

Next up, my vintage bathroom scale.....

It works people. And it's green. It was $12.99, but I just had to have it. When the laundry room gets an overhaul, this little beauty will sit nicely on my hexagonal tile. The hexagonal tile that I did not get when we remodeled the bathroom. But that I will get in my laundry room. If only a clawfoot tub would fit in there.

Now for a bright red pillow. That I paid a quarter for.

I paid big bucks for a pillow like this at Urban Outfitters. And did I mention that it's red? Love red.

Finally, two bowls.........oh, turquoise you know I can't refuse you....

Polka dot Fire King - $3.98. Pyrex Butterprint - $5.00.

Probably not bargain basement prices, except the pillow.

But the time to buy an antique is when you see it. Whether it's $12.99 or a quarter.

And you know that I pretty much have no control when it comes to hoarding.

Linking up with Her Library Adventures today!!!

Day Late.....

2012-01-12T08:05:00.000-06:00

Dollar short.....

Guess where I am on this snow day?

Not at home.

Dear Winter,

2012-01-09T20:18:00.001-06:00

I really appreciate how mild you've been. I mean, it's been warm enough to spray paint. And I love that.

But. I'm warning you. I will need some snow before spring arrives.

I realize it's still very early. That's why I thought I'd warn you in advance.

Just a little reminder, I am very good at snow days. And I'd hate to miss out on one this winter, as you've had a pretty good track record the last few years.

I believe in you, winter. Despite what the Farmers' Almanac is telling me.

I believe in you.

Love,

Danavee

What I Wore Wednesday....

2012-01-04T20:42:00.002-06:00

Just kidding.

I did wear it in the dressing room at Old Navy, however.

And I kind of liked the dress. So I sort of bought it.

Not the boots though.

I swear I did not buy the boots.

But now that I own this Jersey Shore-esque number I have to figure out how to make it work. Like in public and such.

Sooooo I'm thinking it needs black leggings, boots, and maybe a cardigan?

Or just a scarf?

Scarf or cardigan? Sir Chester liked the scarf. But it's your turn to weigh in. Except if you don't like the dress, leave that part out.

It was only $16.99 people.

Cut me a little slack.

Looking Back....and Forward

2012-01-01T17:29:00.003-06:00

I love the yearly tradition of ringing in the new year with BFF's, goooood food inspired by Pinterest, and fun games at Whit's house. I got to end and begin a year with some of my favorite people.

And I learned that I am terrible at Dance Central.

But enough about that. Let's look back at 2011, and see what I have planned for 2012.....

2011 Highlights.........

Finishing the front living room
Adding open shelving above the dishwasher
Deciding on a decor direction for the special room
Getting new bedroom lights
Starting a booth at Relics

2012 To Do List.........

Use all of the Ice Storm of '07 firewood (which is rotting in my backyard)
Drink more water (but not at the expense of Starbucks)
Finish the special room. I mean seriously.
Take a vacation. New York City maybe? Or do we go tropical?
Start redoing the laundry room. I will have beadboard and hexagonal tiles.

Happy New Year!

Christmas Break

2011-12-29T21:18:00.001-06:00

It's just so hard having a little over a week off during the holiday season.....

Mornings are rough......

And I have such trouble filling up my time.....

But between playtime with the niece and nephew, trips to Silver Dollar City, pedicures with the sister, thrift excursions, Christmas with my fam and the mister's, annnnnnnd shopping I learned something important....

I am very good at having a Christmas break.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

I hope you are just as good at having some time off around the holidays!

What I Wore Wednesday

2011-12-21T13:24:00.006-06:00

Last Wednesday, that is.

Yes, that little number was from a week ago.

Clearly, I cared that day.

Outfit details......

chevron dress (that's too short to be called

a "dress" but I love it anyway): Sosie

black tights: Express

black boots: Steve Madden at Dillard's

* * * *

Today, however, I just might resemble the Grinch. Or Scrooge....

It is the last day of school before our Christmas break.

This day is historically a very long day in the world of education.

My feelings for this day can be best expressed by the words on my shirt.

Bah Hum Bug.

Thank you Old Navy.

* * * *

But seriously. I'm not totally a Grinchy Scrooge today. I mean, who put those gifts under my classroom tree?

It wasn't Santa!

* * * *

Thrifting Frenzy

2011-12-18T16:00:00.006-06:00

This week, I walked into Red Rack and was greeted by the most beautiful site ever.

I'm pretty sure it took my breath away.

It was shabby, with chippy paint, and green. It was only $29.96.

It will not be going into my booth.........

Then I found these vintage babies. In their original box (only $2.98).........

I'd been wanting a set since I saw something on Pinterest that I wanted to duplicate. One clear glass compote later, they were ready to display atop my pie safe.....

Finally, there were the two suitcases I found ($3.98 each)......

I seriously thought I'd died and gone to heaven.

I swear I did buy some things that will end up in the booth.

Just not anything pictured above.

And my New Year's Resolution should probably be to chill with the thrifting.

But who am I kidding?

I have a booth to stock people.

(Linking up with Apron Thrift Girl & Her Library Adventures today!!!!)

Sometimes...

2011-12-12T17:20:00.002-06:00

.....it is just a fish stick kind of night.

And I think they should always be kept on hand for evenings such as these.

I mean, I love trying out all those Pinterest inspired recipes.

But, on occasion, we all need to just preheat the oven, flop some fish sticks on a cookie sheet, and whip up a side of mac & cheese.....

And why it always mac & cheese?

For me, it was a staple as a child. Fish sticks, mac & cheese, and peas. That goes for the mister too.

Only the mister has banned peas.

I like peas, but I honor his no peas wishes.

I also honor his strange dipping sauce choice. Ketchup is the only option for me. The mister, however, coats his in mayo.....

Gross.

Buuuuut I guess if he doesn't mind the occasional fish stick dinner, then I don't mind the mayo.

Shiny Brite Obsession

2011-12-08T18:43:00.000-06:00

When it comes to Christmas ornaments, there's only one type for me. Vintage Shiny Brites.

I started this collection a few years ago, buying every single one I could find.

They hang on my tree.....

And they get put in lots of different glass containers........

But I know when to say when. I don't put them everywhere.

Like my mantel. I just added a wreath.....

And maybe some super cute stockings made from old feedsacks and vintage towels.......

Why three?

Well, I have to put Sir Chester's Christmas treats somewhere!

Recently I....

2011-12-05T21:20:00.002-06:00

....made another Pinterest recipe (that mom had been begging me to try too). Crockpot Italian Chicken. Boy howdy, it was tasty. A keeper, fo sho.....

....stopped by our new (and only) Hy-vee. I do not rush out to new stores. It is against everything I believe in. So I waited until the hype died down and parking was more plentiful. Shrug. It's cool, I guess. Tasty coffee, while you're shopping, at least. And I had a good cart. Usually, I get the not-willing-to-turn-or-even-go-straight-cart. But this cart glided along nicely......

....piled up all the books in my possession that I haven't read. EEEEK! I counted four. Three of which are borrowed. DOUBLE EEEEK! I just need a good snow day or Christmas break to roll around......

....took stock of all my decluttering. My 30 days are almost up. I'm proud to say that I've definitely rid myself of 90 items. The house is so clean, since I started. Annnnnnd the special room has a walkway. This. Is. Big. People......

....got a new ironing board cover. Handmade by Schlager!!! Check out her tutorial! I may have freaked out over her new cover, and she graciously volunteered to make one for me! I picked out my fabric, and she whipped that baby up in no time. What. A. Lovely. Friend......

....have been listening to this Christmas song non-stop. I have a major girl crush on Zooey. Oh, that voice....

DIY No Sew Tree Skirt

2011-12-01T21:58:00.013-06:00

Pinterest did it again!

It made me get crafty. All because of a tutorial and these pictures......

Tutorial

I think it was the ruffles.

And maybe that I had to throw away my skanky tree skirt last year that made me want to make this really, really bad.

So I was determined.

Even after the Joann's fiasco, I was still determined. I had purchased linen for a base, along with the red burlap that day........

First I folded the linen into a pizza slice shape, then I rounded the outer edge.....

Here it is all unfolded....

I also cut a circle out in the middle.

Next I began cutting long strips of burlap.......about three inches wide. These were to be hot glued to the linen base.

And here's where I started to feel like I wanted to die.

Instead I got a Pumpkin Spice Latte.....

Although easy, this part was tedious. Not to mention, dangerous. Hot glue hurts.

This entailed row after row of: glue, fold some burlap over onto the glue, and hold. I should have counted all the folds it took.

Yes. I hated this.

However, I loved those pictures from Pinterest and the color of my burlap so much that I was NOT going to give up.

But I could totally see why someone on Etsy was charging $130 for one.

Sir Chester was even over it........

But I kept at it. And even though I wouldn't make anymore after completing this one, I am IN LOVE with my finished product......

Now I just need to play Santa! Better start shopping.....

Thanksgiving Break

2011-11-26T19:20:00.003-06:00

Thursday: Happy belated Thanksgiving! Ours was tasty, lazy, and pretty darn great. My mom is the best cook.......

Friday: Yesterday, the cleaning beast came out again, and you would not believe the progress I made on the special room. The mister was even impressed. I was able to add quite a few tally marks to my donate, trash, and garage sale totals.

We also had our annual "Friendsgiving" with some of the mister's crew, where he attempted to carve the turkey.....

Saturday: It rained. I had no desire to get out really. And with this clean house, I got the hankering to get my Christmas decorating on.......

A little Christmas in the kitchen, inspired by Pinterest.

My bottle brush tree collection in the entry!

But then I did get out. And was reminded why I don't do Black Friday. A trip to Joann's for a little craftiness almost sent me to the loony bin.

I just wanted a few yards of red burlap.

All's well that ends well though. I have my burlap.

And I'm gonna get my craftiness on. Here's a little sneak peek.........

Stay tuned!!!

One Week In

2011-11-20T17:58:00.010-06:00

Decluttering Challenge weekly update time......

After a trip to a resale shop, I'm $37 richer annnnnd minus eight articles of clothing (thanks sis for taking it in).
Made another pile of over 40 items ready for a spring trip to the resale shop.
Gave the sister-in-law a bag of ten random items.
Threw away only three things.
Put over 20 things in a garage sale tub.
And made a donate pile.
The Relics pile grew a little larger too.

Not bad, right?

But while in the midst of working on this challenge, the house was volunteered for the mister's 30th birthday gathering with his family. So the decluttering was put on hold in order to make the house presentable.

Oh, and happy 30th to the mister. (Who got a wild hare this week to rip up the carpet in his manroom and paint it too. Before we knew we were having the shindig.) We did have a lovely little outing with all our favorite friends to celebrate on Saturday. Thank you to everyone who came out. We really like you people.

But back to the house. This means sacrifices had to be made to get it to a presentable level. The special room and garage became hiding spots. The progress I'd made on each of these areas became null and void.

Here's why it's all okay.......each room of my house is sparkling and decluttered, with the exception of those two hiding spots. Keep those doors closed, and you'd never know I was a hoarder!

Another positive........all my junk is now confined to those two rooms............so if I can focus all my energy on those spaces, we may have a completely decluttered house by the new year!

I'm really trying folks!

And I'm dying over this clean house (thanks to mom and the mister for help). Love it.

To be continued.......

Fashion Muse

2011-11-17T07:26:00.001-06:00

Oh, Pinterest. You are good for so many things............craft and recipe ideas..........home decor inspiration..........work shenanigans.............even teaching resources!

But who knew my new fashion muse would be a website?

Yep, Pinterest even can influence your wardrobe.

For instance, this outfit had me at H.E.L.L.O............

Source

I mean, I was overcome at the sight of a denim shirt with black pants and brown boots. So I set out to make it mine.

I had the black skinny jeans and boots. I just needed a denim shirt. Cue a trip to the mall, and voila......

Thanks Old Navy!

Luckily, I've pinned some outfits that won't send me back to the mall.

See? That's the beauty of Pinterest. Giving new ideas for things you already may have!

And quite possibly, causing you to want things you don't have.

But everyone needs a denim shirt.

Right?

A Challenge

2011-11-13T09:59:00.004-06:00

Schlag sort of called me out recently.

Regarding my hoarding problem.

A "30 Day Declutter" challenge she found might just do the trick. Especially if I have an accountability partner.

(Can you hear me, Schlag?)

(Or anyone else who'd like to terrorize me, so that my special room can see the light of day? Or so the mister can park in the garage again in time for winter.)

Here's the skinny: 30 days. 90 items (at least). Or better yet, a clean garage and spare bedroom. Weekly posts updating my progress.

All in time for the holidays.

Maybe I could host Christmas. Or Craft Night 2011.

Can I even do this?

The Big Red Coat

2011-11-07T17:43:00.002-06:00

Once upon a time, I thought this coat was the hottest number around.....

Taken last Friday

Circa 1997 (in my JCPenney shoe department days) I was browsing the coat clearance on a break. Found that red gem. Made it mine.

I really did think it was the best thing going in outerwear. Maybe the crazy discount ($150 for $25) had me. Maybe the real fur trimmed hood was it? Wait, it was waterproof too. So many great features. And it was red.....my favorite color.

It was such a good deal, and so fetching, that I talked my sister into getting one also......

Circa 1997

Anyway, this was the number I was strutting down Grand in (hood up), when I took my fall into the street.

At least the oncoming vehicle could see me.

* * * *

And so here we are today. You might be asking, "Why do you still have that thing? Why?"

Two words: recess duty.

Best teacher coat ever.

Falling

2011-10-30T14:51:00.000-05:00

It is funny.

I mean, how hard is it to not laugh when you see somebody bite the dust? After you've made sure they are okay, of course.

Observing a fall is better than being the fall-er.

I can think of three really good falls I've had.

The reason I bring it up?

My third really good fall was less than 24 hours ago. In front of the mister's band and an entire club of costumed folk. On the dance floor.

Apparently, they put sand on the dance floor at this particular establishment. Unbeknownst to me.

It was a graceful fall, so I was told.......straight to my bottom.........legs out in front of me. Luckily, I didn't drag any microphone or music stands down with me.

I dusted the sand off. Laughed. And curtseyed in all my 80's finery.

What else can you do?

Recently I....

2011-10-28T19:22:00.005-05:00

*Was attacked by a velociraptor........

*Bought a new Coach purse.........

Crazy sale at the outlet!!!

*Pretended to be a supermodel........

*Got my school pictures back (and look cross-eyed).......

Complete bangs failure!

*And found myself cheering out loud during a sporting event, which is unheard of as I do not care about sports. I even bought a shirt, on purpose, to show my team spirit......

Go Cards!!! Win, win, win!!!!

Pinspiration

2011-10-19T17:46:00.003-05:00

Awhile back, on Pinterest, I came across a neato idea for staging a kitchen with cake pedestals......using them for something other than cake.....

Source

Brilliant! Stacking books or plates on top! Easy to replicate. And free, since I'm a hoarder.

So I got to stacking.

And I hated how the books turned out.....

Then the plates didn't look quite right either (but after staring at this pic for a bit, this one is growing on me).....

What about a set of nesting bowls instead?

Uh, no.

I kinda liked an arrangement of more of my ivory pottery pieces.......

But I still wasn't sold.

So when I went to put all that stuff back, I looked at another collection I have and love.

Vintage tea towels?

Uh, YESSSSS!

(Now don't you dare go using any of those babies. They are just. for. looks.)

Thanks again, Pinterest for the inspiration.

(Pinspiration......get it???)

Thrifting Frenzy

2011-10-16T11:27:00.002-05:00

Red Rack Thrift Store sent me into one of those yesterday.

Someone must have donated an estate or something because it was full of fabulous finds.

Most of which will not be making it to my booth. These are all staying at home......

*Maybe to hang on my wall.......above my piano???

Old tin platter..........$2.98

*To use in the laundry room/half bath once we revamp that space........

Vintage glass towel bar.........$2.98

*To hang from my coat rack for cuteness.......

Vintage umbrella.........$3.98

I also found a bevvy of vintage school paraphernalia.......a super cool globe (that I really wanted to keep, but didn't), a child's desk and chair, and a pencil sharpener...........all which did make it to the booth.

So it all evens out, right?

A little for me, a little for the booth.

Strollers, Taffy, and a Sharpie

2011-10-10T20:31:00.002-05:00

Remember when I went to Silver Dollar City a few months back?

Well, how awful is it that we got Season Passes and hadn't returned once?

I reminded the mister of this recently, telling him he'd promised to take me in the fall during their Harvest Festival. And again at Christmas.

Only part of that was actually true. Just the Christmas part.

But it worked. Because yesterday, we went.

However, it came with a special request. Could we take his sister's two boys? Our one and three year old nephews?

Yes. Yes, we could.

So after we filled up on taffy........

Bought a "souvenir mug"...........

And rode tons of rides..........

They were out within minutes at the end of the day.....

And when I got home, I had only enough strength to Sharpie my mug (for our next trip at Christmas) before I crashed too.....

Because pushing strollers uphill at an amusement park is pretty much dead to me.

But protecting one's souvenir mug from potential mug-snatchers must be taken seriously.

Regardless of how many hills you've climbed while pushing a stroller.

Love & Hate: Work Edition

2011-10-03T19:18:00.001-05:00

When school starts, I can think of nothing else than longing for it to be October.

Why? I want to know my kiddos. I want to have our routines established. I want to feel like I'm back in the groove.

Usually, by October, most of that is in place.

And by October, I usually have some work related joys. And woes.

Here is one of each......

Love: Random bouquets of flowers

Today, one of my precious girls showed up with two. dozen. roses. For me.

I mean, the mister hasn't even done that. Come on.

But seriously, the little gifts, whether it's a card, one of their stuffed animals, or two dozen roses make you feel dyn-o-mite no matter what.

And the fact that it was a Monday didn't hurt.........to get the week started off right and all.

* * * *

Hate: Smelly Shirts

Yes, people. You read that right. Shirts that smell.

Remember Scratch & Sniff stickers?

Well, times have changed, and now they make Scratch & Sniff shirts.

I experienced the horror last Monday. A child (that shall remain nameless) wore a garlic Scratch & Sniff shirt.

This being the most offensive of them all, so sayeth unnamed child.

He owns all. seven. scents.

His team couldn't even stand the smell. They begged to sit elsewhere that day.

He found it pretty amusing.

The next day he wore peanut butter and jelly.....

It was bearable.

But still. I can only imagine the horror that awaits me.

There are, after all, five more shirts to go.

A Domestic Escapade Failure

2011-09-25T17:17:00.005-05:00

You all know about my addiction to Starbucks.

My addiction gets more expensive during the fall. Because Pumpkin Spice Lattes are back. And they are way more pricey than my regular vanilla latte.

So in an attempt to be thrifty today, I thought I'd try a recipe from Pinterest said by Sarah to be a pretty good knockoff.

I really wanted to like it. I even put it in a Starbucks mug to make it feel legit.

But after a few sips, down the drain it went.

Did I go wrong when I used frozen pumpkin that I'd defrosted? Did I not add enough coffee?

I don't know.

What I do know is that I just should have tried Sarah's first.

Something else I know is that my mister is great. He felt so bad about the fail that he offered to take me for a Starbucks run afterward.

And you know I said yes.

A Conversation

2011-09-22T21:42:00.000-05:00

Roughly two days into the brand new school year, there occurred a brief dialogue betwixt myself and a ten-year-old girl in my class......

Girl: "Mrs. Long, how old are you?"

Me: "Thirty-six."

Girl: "And you have feathers in your hair?"

Me: "Um, yes."

* * * *

Normally, I do not put much stock into the opinions of fourth graders ~ regarding my fashion choices. But this one had me almost worried. Was I too old for a few feathers in my hair? They weren't neon green or anything. They were barely visible, skinny feathers, in muted colors.

Hmmmph!

* * * *

Tonight, after my haircut, my hairdresser wanted to know if I wanted to put my feathers back in.

I said yes.

And added a bright blue one to the mix.

So. There.

Fall Frenzy

2011-09-19T20:08:00.002-05:00

After work today, I sort of went on a rampage.

A pumpkin buying rampage.

I filled an old Radio Flyer with heirloom variety pumpkins......

I blame the gorgeous weather after the dreary weekend we had.

Anyway, I just couldn't resist. I needed to be outside, and the best pumpkin "patch" in the world (with awesome prices) was on my way home. They have an excellent selection. From the typical jack-o-lantern style to gourds. They have mini pumpkins, hay, cornstalks, mums. EVERYTHING for fallifying your home.

Look at the perfect stems and vines..........

And how cute is a collection of baby pumpkins in a vintage compote..........

Schlag, thanks for making me buy that compote.

Oh, and one more thing. My mum.......

I think my house is fallified.

With one exception.........Jan, I need to come raid your bittersweet vines.

Above the copy machine...

2011-09-15T17:16:00.001-05:00

I mean, what more could you want?

Makes you laugh annnnnnd puts a little song in your step, right?

Thanks, Pinterest (for more fun work shenanigans). And way to go Whit (for vertically orienting that text).

You know you want to.

But if Lionel isn't right up your alley, maybe velociraptors are?

Weekends are good!

2011-09-11T22:11:00.001-05:00

Here is why...........

1. You can go roller skating...........

I can't even explain the flood of memories

that came rushing back upon walking

through those doors Saturday night. The smell

of the lobby, the snack bar, the disco lights.

And neither of us fell.

* * * *

2. You can celebrate birthdays.....

And what better way than to give the cutest

two year old niece ever her first Cabbage Patch!

* * * *

3. You can zipline for the first time.........

Thanks to a half price dealio on Groupon. We had

a great time and will definitely go again. We had a

wonderful experience at Adventure Ziplines of Branson.

* * * *

4. You can bake some tasty muffins from scratch.....

Found on Pinterest, these Snickerdoodle Muffins

were a big hit. Even the mister, who is a hater of all

things snickerdoodly, loved them.

* * * *

Why can't the weekend last all week?

A Weakness

2011-09-08T19:52:00.000-05:00

I would like to blame Pinterest, but really, the problem is completely my fault.

I have no willpower when it comes to boots.

And now that boot season is peeking around the corner, and pair after pair is scrolling across my screen on Pinterest, well, what's a girl to do?

A girl is supposed to satisfy her wants.

But was it really necessary to buy two pair?

I figured, after a crazy booth check from the first month on my own, a little treat couldn't hurt. And I figured that I'd probably return one of my purchases after they both arrived.

So which pair do I keep?

I bought the brown pair. These were 20% off!

These (also brown) were 40% off with free shipping.

I'm just so torn! They are both perfect in completely different ways. You can't argue color, since the browns are so different. That goes for style too. They, in no way, resemble each other.

Wait. Did I just talk myself into keeping both pair?

I swear I won't buy a single pair from this moment forward.

Maybe.

Slow as molasses...

2011-09-04T17:12:00.000-05:00

Motivation ebbs and flows in this here household. Regarding the progress of any home decor related projects.

Since the lights were installed, there's been a whole lotta nothin going on around here.

But then something happened. A cause for inspiration.

I came home to find my piano back home in its pre-hardwood floors spot. It had been displaced since December, so walking in and finding it back home made me h.a.p.p.y. And it put me back in the decorating mood.

But it also came with a problem.

Remember my mantel? That spot gave me fits, until I had an epiphany. Now it's just like I want it.

But here I am again with a vast amount of space to stage.

I have a mirror that I think I'd like to center over it, but from there I'm stuck.....

Do I do a collage wall? Random sizes of mirrors or pictures? Like this.....

Found on Pinterest

Or various plates......

Found on Pinterest

I'm sure it will hit me suddenly, like my mantel idea did. Then I'll be in a frenzy to find everything I want to complete it. Or I may just have everything. In my still unfinished special room.

Shhhh!

I know.

I'm such a loser.

But back to the piano. Opinions are welcome.

Pinterest & A Public Service Annoucement

2011-08-28T17:33:00.003-05:00

I'm still as addicted to Pinterest as I was a few months ago.

At first, I couldn't get enough of the home decor ideas that flooded the screen in front of me. But then I discovered recipes. Ohhhh the recipes.

Pictures of red velvet this and pumpkin that.

After making a few desserts, I graduated into entree territory. For some reason, Pinterest had me actually wanting to cook. And I don't mean Hamburger Helper (which I love.....tsk tsk tsk......no judging).

So far I've been thrilled with all the recipes I've tried! The mister has been too! He especially loved a Chicken Enchilada Pasta dish, and he even ate the leftovers. We also liked a White Chicken Enchilada recipe.

But his favorite of my escapades was probably the Jalapeno Poppers, which he didn't even eat. No, he doesn't like jalapenos. He just likes terrorizing me when I'm clumsy or forgetful.

While making the poppers, I sort of forgot that I'd handled jalapenos. And I guess I must have touched my face. Because all of a sudden, I was aflame! Random spots on my face were stinging. It was the worst burning sensation you can imagine.

Washing my face didn't work. I had to resort to Google. And in my search, I read that milk was a great remedy for jalapeno burns. So, a plate of milk was served up. And face first I went.

Being in such a vulnerable state left me defenseless against the mister, who was snapping photo after photo of this horrifying event......

So let this be a lesson. Upon touching jalapenos, wash your hands in soapy water prior to touching your face. Or earlobe.

But if you forget, remember the tale of the terrorized wife, and pray you have a jug of milk.

Top Ten List: Fall

2011-08-24T21:48:00.000-05:00

Now that school is in session and lazy days by the pool are no longer, I am ready for my favorite season of the year.

I love all things autumn.

Here is my "Top Ten Reasons Fall Rocks" list.....

1. Pumpkin Spice Lattes return at Starbucks.

2. Speaking of pumpkins, I can buy a few of the heirloom variety for my front porch!

3. Trees light up in shades of yellow, orange, and red.

4. The air becomes crisp, but it's still warm enough to get away with long sleeves and maybe just a jacket.

5. I can trade out flip flops for flats..........and maybe sneak some boots in too.

6. Back to pumpkins again. It's time for pumpkin muffins and pie.

7. Soup and hot chocolate season is upon us.

8. Halloween! Costume time!

9. Thanksgiving! Turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes and gravy..........with family.

10. Friday night football games at the high school. A blanket, hot chocolate, and marching band performances at halftime!

Did you really think I'd be able to stop at ten?

11. Flaming red mums (alongside my pumpkins) for curb appeal.

12. Fall bouquets at the Farmers' Market, not to mention the other fall produce you can scoop up there.

13. Leola's fall open house. With Jan's bittersweet wreaths.

* * * *

There. All done.

Surely, I've convinced

you that fall is the best.

Memory Lane

2011-08-21T10:17:00.000-05:00

Nothing can take you back quite like a visit to a small hometown fair.

The Republic Fall Festival was this weekend, and I somehow convinced the mister that we needed to go. I think throwing in "it's for the kids" really worked (meaning: for his little nephews). But really, I just wanted to go.

This fair was a childhood staple. A must every August before school started.

While looking around Friday night, I realized some of the exact same rides were there from way back when. In fact, I'm pretty sure this ride hadn't even gotten a new coat of paint since the last time I rode it....

And even though it wasn't quite as magical as it was as a preteen, I got to enjoy it through a three year old's eyes. A fearless three year old, who was shrieking with delight while our legs dangled many, many feet above the ground...

So while we were suspended at the top of the Paratrooper, I took a minute. The view wasn't too bad....

It made me smile. And it made me a little wistful for the deathtrap of a ride, The Zipper, which was nowhere in sight.

Probably for good reason.

I wish I had a dollar...

2011-08-15T17:32:00.001-05:00

For every time someone has told me I look like this actress who is gonna be on a new show this fall.

I could buy a new car.

Not really, but seriously......it has happened a lot.

So maybe I could buy a new pair of shoes or something.

My celebrity look-alike..........

Agree or disagree?

A new phase of work shenanigans....

2011-08-12T19:51:00.002-05:00

Pinterest is very inspiring. You can find lovely home decor ideas, recipes, craft projects, and so many other wonderful things. The list really does go on and on.

Little did I know, however, that work related shenanigans could also be sparked by this amazing web-site.

One day, while scrolling through all the inspiration, my eyes became fixed on something so outstanding I just knew it would have to be replicated.

And replicated it was. A few Google images and Picnik edits later, we (Whit and I) had ourselves a nice little poster to hang directly above the copy machine.....

You can't say you weren't warned.

Hodgepodge....

2011-08-09T08:34:00.001-05:00

Prepare for randomness.

Look what arrived in the mail after three months of being on backorder..........

This baby is going in the special room. Which I planned on having finished by now, but summer sort of got in the way.

* * * *

My last hurrah before school starts happened last weekend. The annual camping and float trip.....

We are becoming quite the accomplished campers. I learned everything I know from the Pullan Family. They are experts. And they are fun too.

* * * *

Here's what happens when you acquire fake tattoos and you're supposed to be working on getting your classroom back in order.........

Aren't we fierce?

The Booth

2011-08-05T08:43:00.001-05:00

Some big changes have been happening in booth world.

Two of us decided to branch out on our own........and get spaces by ourselves!

AHHHHH!

Scary, but exciting!

I moved to an "endcap" on the other side of the store. I decided to dress it up from just plain pegboard.......

To a burlap backdrop.......

Added a little bunting at the top, and then it was staging time.......

I'm thrilled with how it turned out..........now come to Relics and buy my stuff!

Pretty please....

It's that time again....

2011-08-02T07:38:00.005-05:00

School is practically in session. Which means my classroom must be put back together again.......

The best custodian ever painted my room this summer, so I'm in the mood to redecorate my space. Light gray is so much better than butter. Butter colored walls are bad. Gray colored walls are good.

Another good thing? My new rug.........

That's chevrony goodness, huh?

And my sort-of-new chairs, which were headed to storage until I spotted them..........

To match my brown and blue color scheme!

Instead of these awful things........

Which are orange. And huge.

And very wide. And won't stay on

desks at the end of the day.

And they are orange.

The chairs, newly painted walls, and my chevron rug inspired me to buy curtains too......

To hide six shelves of this........

But let's talk about this horse.........

I mean last summer it was a sombrero wearing JFK bust. Now this?

Who is messing with me? And why do you like to leave random objects on my desk over the summer?

This isn't over!

Let the horsing around begin!

A Makeover Story

2011-07-29T07:19:00.002-05:00

Don't be jealous of my skirt.........

I think I paid $1.98 for it at Red Racks.

This was one fashion forward skirt.........it has pockets! So before its time.

And although it was great as is, I figured the hemline needed to come up a few inches. So I took it to an alterations shop for a little snip snip..........

And now I love it even more!

Picture it paired with a belted shirt and some great shoes. Like this........

Source (thanks Pinterest)

But minus the windblown hair.

And the rooftop.

Updates

2011-07-26T08:03:00.003-05:00

1. Blue the Betta and Cookie the Cat survived two weeks of being in Aunt Dandan's care. I think it was the special post-it notes from Whit that kept me going....

I don't know why I doubted myself. I mean I do just fine keeping Sir Chester alive and happy.....

* * * *

2. There will be no need to take bids on the antique wardrobe. The mister, who was taken aback by the size of the thing, actually laughed after discovering it.

Which I let happen on its own.

It went quite well.

He has not, however, noticed the little $10 dresser in the garage. I'm not too worried though. I have a knack for strategically placing things so that they are often overlooked.

Need help hiding a potentially upsetting purchase? I'm your girl.

And I can fish-sit for you too.

While the mister's away....

2011-07-22T17:56:00.002-05:00

I buy large antique wardrobes.

Not everyday or anything. Just once.

Sort of. (The other very small $10 dresser doesn't really count.)

But this one will probably be noticed...........

I found it at Pheona's monthly sale.........just hours after I'd dropped the mister off for his two weeks of out-of-state Annual Training (Army stuff). So I was sort of in a fragile state. Two weeks without the mister were staring me in the face. Retail therapy was the only cure.

So I bought it.

Then I had a terrible case of buyer's remorse.

Until it was delivered.

And now it's in my special room. Most of the remorse has evaporated.

But....

The mister returns tomorrow. Let's take bets on how long it takes him to notice it..........and see if my remorse returns..............in which case, I'll be taking bids on it............

U2

2011-07-19T10:17:00.001-05:00

I did dub this the "year of concerts" awhile back (from Trans Siberian Orchestra to Elton John to Michael Buble).

So another day, another concert.

But I really can't be casual and nonchalant about my excitement regarding any of them. Especially this one.

I mean, when Bono came into view, I think the whole stadium lost it.

For me, this concert was like the Beatles of our generation.

Look at the stage............

There were over 52,000 people in attendance.

It was incredible, magical, amazing, and insane......

They sang most of their greatest hits.....

We were enlightened with some random statistics.........

And completely awed by the production....

Thanks to Schlager and Wendy for a great weekend. Here's to hoping our "squash into the metro no matter what" won't end up on You Tube.

A Prayer

2011-07-14T07:42:00.005-05:00

Dear Lord,

I have but one small request while the Hoodenpyle family is away. They've entrusted me with the care of their pets. Sooo please, please give me the skills to keep Blue the Betta alive.

I'm a little worried about adding water to his tank, as it's dropped considerably in 24 hours. And I sort of had a mishap years ago with my betta when I changed his water. So now I have betta-water-changing-anxiety.

I have to keep Jack's fish alive.

Have. To.

Please?

Amen

P.S. Could you also protect me when I go feed Cookie? You never know when the devil cat will attack.

P.S.S. Hey, and see if Whit will bring me a t-shirt or something? Wolves baying at the moon maybe!

A Keeper

2011-07-11T17:46:00.000-05:00

Remember this.......

It's my turn to host again tonight! And what good is a hostess without tasty treats?

Fear not!

This hostess just made the best brownies, and she'd like to sing it from the mountaintop.

Or just blog about it.

But not in third person.

Anyway, remember that whole Pinterest thing I mentioned awhile back? It's good for many things. Like finding recipes. And that's how I found the recipe for tonight's shindig......

Those, my friends, are Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies. And they taste as good as they look! I believe I have Casey to thank for finding them so I could repin them. And make them. And try not to eat them before all the girls get here.

This recipe is a keeper!

But who will be a keeper on tonight's show?

Hahahaha!!!!!!!

(I'm such a dork.)

And then there was light!

2011-07-08T20:28:00.006-05:00

Bob was a rock star this week. He came and went in one day........getting all three bedrooms up to snuff in the lighting department.

No more skanky fluorescent bulbs in wooden window boxes that barely work.

I can't tell you what it's like to go in any of the bedrooms and actually SEE things.

What luxury!

Except for the fact that two of the rooms got (deep breath) ceiling fans.

For true, my friends.

And you know how I feel about ceiling fans.

But one bedroom is the "man room" so the mister insisted on choosing his own fixture. And guess what he wanted?

Next, we were dealing with a very poorly ventilated master bedroom. Basically, we wake up drenched in sweat every single night despite the no matter what the air is set on. So for sound sleeping purposes, I relented and ceiling fan number two was purchased.

To make up for the tragic-ness of buying ceiling fans, the special room was going to get something that was sure to be, um, special. And vintage.

In fact, I'd had the fixture in the special room for quite some time. Under the bed in a box. Found it on ebay years ago and had been saving it for this very purpose........

One step closer to a finished special room. Now that the light boxes are gone and the walls are patched, it's paint time!!!

Who is good with a brush or roller?

Let there be light!

2011-07-05T09:49:00.001-05:00

In the middle of setting off fireworks, Bob surprised us with a phone call last night. He was ready to come for his next project.

TODAY!

So I'm anxiously awaiting Bob's arrival this morning, not to mention the completion of his project. I threw out a hint about this very small overhaul about a month ago. Finishing this little project will allow us to finally paint and finish the bedrooms. I'm hoping Bob's upgrade only takes a day, maybe two.

This project probably won't be too exciting for all of you. But after living with fluorescent bulbs in wooden boxes above every bedroom window for five years, I am flipping out. First of all, the wooden light boxes are not esthetically pleasing.........

Second of all, the light they produce is minimal. We practically need flashlights to see in each of the bedrooms.

Third of all, they often flicker. Like in a scary movie when someone is about to get the ax. Then they might stay on, but more often they flicker until they go out completely.

Why, oh why would someone choose to light a house this way?

Dear Builder of my house,

What the heck where you thinking?

I realize it was 1967 when you made this

choice, but really? Even a caned blade

ceiling fan would have been better than this.

Love, Dana-v

* * * *

Speaking of light, the 4th of July was excellent. It's not a true 4th unless you light up the sky.......

Or blow up a mailbox......

The mister and I had nothing to do with this. Innocent bystanders. I swear.

Hope your 4th was explosive too!

Two Fifths

2011-07-02T21:18:00.001-05:00

One "fifth" was the fifth anniversary of getting my house. I always remember what a big day it was........going to the closing all by myself..........getting my house completely on my own.

I can't believe I've lived here for five years! So much has been accomplished in that time. All the visions I had for the place are becoming reality. I can't wait for the next project to be completed.

* * * *

The second "fifth" was the Fifth Annual Garage Sale we had this weekend!

I can't believe we've had five of these babies! And each year they get bigger, even though we donate every bit that we don't sell.

Looking back on previous sales, we've had one that was fun even though I may have been a bit delusional. One where I got sweet vindication but was emotional. And another that was messy.

The only word to really describe this one?

H.O.T.

Heat indexes through the roof. But it was still successful, and we always have a good time. Especially when Pullan brings her famous salsa. And there's unlimited lemonade.

Oh, and does anyone need a dryer with a slight squeak?

Summer is good for....

2011-06-29T08:29:00.001-05:00

Cold treats from the mister's favorite spot..........

Having lunch with the mister, sister, and nephew...........even when the nephew is being a turkey.........

Going to the lake in the middle of the week...........

Preparing for the 5th Annual Garage Sale at Whit's house..........

Adding a new feature to the booth..........

And investigating local urban legends late at night......

* * * *

Dear Summer,

Slow down, please!

I'm not ready for July!

Love, Dana-v

It was like Christmas

2011-06-26T19:51:00.002-05:00

I need to thank Jennifer for today's find. If it weren't for her, this treasure would be home with someone else, and I just can't stomach the thought. She introduced me to the luggage section of Red Rack a few days ago. I didn't know it existed until then.

So today as I made my rounds, I decided to finish up my browsing with a sweep of the luggage area. I have a soft spot for vintage pieces..

Immediately, I spotted this.......

I snatched it up and noticed it was very heavy. I decided to have a peek inside.

And it took my breath away.........

Could it really be? A matching smaller one nesting inside? My heart was racing. And singing.

So I decided to open that one also, and what to my wondering eyes should appear???? No, not a miniature sleigh and eight tiny reindeer. It was better than that.......

Get out.

Shut UP!

NO WAY!

ANOTHER ONE?

At this point, I lost all sense of reality. I think I might have done a little jig or jump of some sort. And I was for sure talking to myself. Out loud.

But it wasn't over yet.

The darn things weren't priced. And I feared the worst. How much was I willing to pay for these pristine beauties? I kept thinking about it as I approached the counter. I put on my best smile. Took a deep breath. And asked.

Oh great. Manager had to be paged. Another round of smiling and deep breathing when manager approaches.

Maybe some eyelash batting too.

And then a Christmas miracle happened. As if finding three matching vintage suitcases wasn't enough. This angel of a manager uttered the most beautiful phrase I may ever hear...

"Oh, how about five bucks?"

And I fainted.

Not really, but almost.

I did hug him though.

Not awkward!

Now.......to keep or not to keep? That is the question.

I just don't see how I could part with these beauties.

Paint, Relics, and Burritos

2011-06-24T06:47:00.003-05:00

There's a war raging in this here household. Over the thermostat. I've recently had to dig out the Snuggie due to the mister's preference for Arctic temperatures.

Oh, and while we're at it, could we discuss the empty milk jug I found on the counter?

I did not put it there. Or empty it for that matter. I did, however, throw it away.

Sigh....

But one thing (of many) we do agree on? Three little words: gas station burritos. Nooo, not yuck. Yum, yum, yum. They are a rare, but welcome crispy treat.

And I think we also agree on the paint color for the special room....

But what do you think? Top, middle, or bottom.....

* * * *

In booth news, Relics is having an anniversary sale. Each booth can opt to join in with percentages from 10 to 50% off. So stop by, grab a treat and mimosa, and shop til you drop! Our little corner of Relics will be on sale!!!

Michael Buble

2011-06-22T15:38:00.002-05:00

I got my concert on last night! Michael Buble was in town.

The dude is talented and f.u.n.n.y. He even does great impersonations. A little Michael Jackson anyone..........

Or how about one of his new hits?

Even the mister enjoyed him. And although we could almost touch the ceiling of JQH, we loved every minute of it the concert.

Next up? U2 in July!!!!

Wedding Week Recap

2011-06-19T20:33:00.000-05:00

The last few days have been a whirlwind of activity! A fun whirlwind though. Ashley and Chris are officially hitched, and the whole thing went off without, uh, um, a....hitch!

One event from this week was Ashley's bridal shower. Lots of folks chipped in to make this a success: Nancy's guacamole, Whit's house, Schlag's chips, Pullan's famous salsa, Amy and Wirth's excellent beverage choices, and Katie's fun game. Oh, and did I mention that everyone got to be my guinea pig? I tried my hand at a new concoction: fruit tacos......

Cinnamon tortillas + cream cheese spread + fruit = tasty, sweet treat for a Mexican themed wedding shower! Margarita flavored cupcakes from Alexandria's Cupcake Cottage weren't too bad either!

The very next day we hit up the venue for set up and then the rehearsal that night. Ash got all the girls super cute gifts..........vintage aprons and silly sunglasses......

Finally, the big day rolled around. I got to fill the car with Farmer's Market flowers that morning......

Then by noon, we were off and running........getting ready for pictures and the ceremony. The day flew by, and before I knew it, I was walking down the aisle, dancing at the reception, and posing for fun photos.........

I'll leave the wedding details and photos up to the bride and photographer. But I will give you one little tidbit. Probably my favorite feature of the reception........a photobooth with silly props........

Congratuations Ash and Chris! You are a perfect match! Thank you for choosing to have me be a part of your special day.

Sneak Peeks

2011-06-15T07:38:00.000-05:00

The pillows are all here. And perfectly glorious.

Here's a sneak peek for you........

Here's another sneak peek of something equally glorious for my master bedroom.........

There's two of these babies. I can't wait to hang them.

I fell in love the moment I spotted them in Relics. There were four of them. I really wanted one.

Or two.

Or all of them.

Soooo one day when Whit and I were roaming the store and she admitted to loving them too, we decided we needed them. Two went home with her. And two are mine.

That's how we roll.

Werd.

Looking in two directions

2011-06-12T11:05:00.004-05:00

Last week.........

I'm glad I only spent $3.00 on a sample of paint because the one I chose was way too dark........

This frustrated me, so the special room got no more attention after the mishap. But it was also a good thing. I now know I need to go way lighter.

Another good thing? Finding a trifle dish for $3.98, so I could get my domestic escapades on......

And filling this cute green shelf ($4) with fun yard sale finds.......

Mostly for the booth, of course!

* * * *

This week.........

All my pillow purchases should arrive no later than Tuesday. This makes me giddy.

More domestic escapades will be attempted...........a blueberry coffee cake for our weekly Bachelorette gathering.............and some tasty treats for a bridal shower I'm helping out with.

Then, the biggest and best event of them all? The Arnold and Boschen wedding!!!! Can't wait to be involved in all the festivities surrounding this joyous occasion!

I'm practicing the robot so that Sarah can capture all of my hot moves.

Don't worry Ash, Sarah will probably take some pictures of you too.

Dreaming of Paint

2011-06-08T12:33:00.002-05:00

I woke up today and could think of nothing other than paint swatches.

Probably because I went on a pillow buying frenzy last night right before bedtime.

I sort of bought four pillows for the special room.............

U. O.

Etsy

I didn't want to stop there, but I figured I should at least let them arrive before I do more pillow damage.

That led me to think about what else I could do. Instead of buying pillows.

How about figure out my paint color?

Here's what I'm working with.........

Gray, turquoise, creamy white, and a little soft coral....

I'm thinking a silvery gray for the walls? To tie in the gray from the curtains and rug??

Maybe something along these lines or a shade lighter??

We all know I'm not afraid of color (bathroom, entryway, living room) but I really want the bedding and curtains to be the standouts in this room.

I considered a lighter coral or even a softer turquoise.....

Too much like my kitchen and entry?

Too close to my bathroom color?

And now I'm just plain old confused.

Leaning towards gray......teetering on the edge though.

Your opinion, please?

Will you accept this rose?

2011-06-06T09:53:00.001-05:00

Monday nights are the best.

Why?

The Bachelorette is on.

And since the premiere, some friends have been gathering to watch it together........rotating houses..........bringing fun food.........and handing out roses.

Here are some pics from the first night at my house...........

It was the most dramatic rose ceremony ever.

School's Out!

2011-06-02T22:33:00.003-05:00

The last day was Friday, May 27th. I'm almost a week into my summer vacation.

Believe it or not, I have a very hard time transitioning from the school year to summer break.

It's like going from ninety to nothing. There's no slow down period. It's not gradual. One day you're working. Next thing you know, you have weeks of vacation staring you in the face.

Don't get me wrong. I am not complaining.

I'm just stating that, initially, it kind of feels surreal. It takes some time to get into a groove.

At first, I feel manic. Like I have so many things to pack in and I want to accomplish them! But when that fades, I get really lazy.

Right now, I'm in the middle of manic.

Next week, I might be in the middle of lazy.

Let's hope I find my balance soon.

Nevertheless, summer is here, and I have lots to look forward to........weddings, concerts, camping trips, swimming. And I've already called Bob the Builder for another house project! It's a small one, but stay tuned anyway. You might even get a peek of my special room.

Something Monumental

2011-05-30T16:16:00.003-05:00

Remember when I confessed that the mister had been living out of bags? That he didn't have a dresser. And everything was in tubs. Or bags.....

Many of you expressed your concern over this (even though the mister was fine ~ really).

Sooooo for those of you who were worried, you might be pleased to know that the mister got a dresser today.....

One day short of our two year anniversary.....

He said he felt like he finally lived here. It only took two years.

Happy Anniversary (tomorrow) to the mister.

Love and Hate

2011-05-26T18:19:00.002-05:00

Hate:

That this is what Angi's house looks like....

That is her driveway, facing where her house would have been.

I asked her where she would have hunkered down had she been home. She said in her hallway. I'm so thankful she wasn't home.

* * * *

Love:

Angi's dog was found today. Alive and well.....

I cried in the middle of Relics when she called with the good news.

Some folks a few blocks away found her and took her to the Humane Society. Luckily, Angi had already covered her bases and had given them a picture in case someone brought her in. The employees knew immediately that it was Trixie.

What a sweet reunion!

Prayers

2011-05-23T18:11:00.002-05:00

Cat's got my tongue the last few days, I guess.

I had intended on publishing a post about how much I love my new duvet cover. Or about how I'm throwing a Bachelorette Season Premiere party tonight. But in light of the tragic events of yesterday, all of those things seemed pretty petty.

Imagine losing everything you own.

A duvet wouldn't seem too important.

My best bud from college, who was my roommate from our dorm days, lost everything last night. Her home was leveled in the Joplin tornado. And one of her precious dogs hasn't been found. The other dog found, but in poor condition at a vet's office. Luckily, she wasn't home at the time.

My heart is breaking for her and so many others that lost everything. Please send up some prayers for my friend Angi and the people of Joplin.

Shoes

2011-05-18T18:09:00.001-05:00

I like them.

I go through phases though.

I am coming down from a boot phase.......forced only by the season.

So since I must retire the boots, I have to move on. But with the weather fluctuating so much lately, I haven't quite surrendered to flip flops just yet.

The perfect crazy weather spring shoe? Cute, flat, slip-ons.

And because it's my birthday month and all, I decided to treat myself to not one, but three different pair.

Of course, all cute, flat, and slip-on........

Target

Dillards

Express

And so now the buying ban has extended from vintage mirrors to shoes. No more purchasing of either. No. More.

* * *

In other news, my duvet cover is scheduled to arrive by mail tomorrow (Thursday).

Yesssssss!

I suppose I'll have to buy an actual duvet to put in it.

My rug will be delayed by about three months. Backordered. But something to look forward to.

Something else to look forward to?

Summer.

Only seven days of school left.

The Special Room

2011-05-14T18:56:00.006-05:00

My house has three bedrooms, none of which can be viewed by guests. So, as far as guest bedrooms go, well, we have them. We just don't have guests that spend the night.

Due to my hoarding problem, I've always had one bedroom serve as my storage unit. Even though we have a storage unit. It's for stuff that I don't want to put in the storage unit.

You may have heard me mention this "special room" once or twice.

This room, as we know it, is going to change forever.

Mark my words, friends. Mark my words.

The transformation sort of began last week with a very special birthday present from Schlag and Nancy. These lovely ladies got this beveled mirror for me from Leola's.......

And we all immediately knew it would go above the headboard of my antique iron bed in the special room.

From there, my mind just couldn't stop thinking. So I bought this........

And this.........

To go with this.......

My color scheme: Shades of turquoise,

gray, creamy white, and soft coral.

With ten days of school left, the special room will be my first summer project.

And then I'll have to call it the "guest bedroom" instead.

I'm excited.

Now, who wants to be my first guest???

Vulture

2011-05-11T16:46:00.003-05:00

I was one of those people on Saturday morning.

A vulture.

Waiting for the doors to open at an estate sale two doors down from my house.

No makeup. Finger combed hair. Clothes from the day before.

All because of a picture I saw online......

I was pretty sure there was a darn good vintage tablecloth on the lowest shelf......left side......very bottom of the pile. See the pink and white peeking out right above the shelf? I was positive that was a treasure.

And I was right.........

Only $4.00.......no stains.........and it's HUGE!
Look at those colors! And the design! Sigh.

Other fun things were to be found as well.....

I've had the larger pottery piece for years and about

had a seizure when I saw the little one. I'd spotted it
in the online picture gallery also. It wasn't really a
bargain, but my bigger piece needed its match, right?

A full box of Shiny Brites.
Need I say more?

This estate sale was a little different than the one that turned me into a monster. The prices at that particular sale were low, low, crazy low. It was definitely a family orchestrated sale. This other sale, however, was being run by a company specializing in estate sales, so prices were higher. Needless to say, most of the items came home to stay.

Monster? Vulture?

Sales do bad things to me!

May 8th

2011-05-08T19:26:00.007-05:00

Today a Christmas miracle happened.

I went to Silver Dollar City with the mister, mom, dad, sister, brother-in-law, niece, and nephew.

This is a miracle because it was Mother's Day and my birthday. And we were all together. At a theme park.

This has not occurred since Hill and I were probably in junior high or high school.

We weren't sure if they'd let us on the kiddie roller coaster together. They did....

Having the fam together on such a special day, doing something we used to do way back when, was really lovely.

Silver Dollar City hasn't changed much......

The bags they put your purchases in are the same.
You still get one piece of free taffy.
Pork rinds are still offered up for sampling.
The Flooded Mine still has those creepy chattering teeth.
Someone still needs their pants on Fire in the Hole.
Annnndddd the train ride "skit" that I memorized as a child is the same. Word for word.........

My birthday present was a Season Pass. So I can go back all summer long and watch this skit as often as I want. Maybe next time I'll heckle them.

Maybe next time I'll buy a mug. I'll make sure to take my Sharpie.

SUCCESS!!!

2011-05-05T18:48:00.001-05:00

Our first month of being "antique dealers" at Relics has come and gone.

I am thrilled to report a successful first month, with a pretty big check to show for it. We totally made rent and then some.

They said that April is one of the slowest months, so if that's true, I'm excited for what's to come!

Every time I walk back to our booth and notice something missing, I do a little jig right there on the spot.

Having a booth is so. much. fun.

Except now that I'm constantly hunting for booth stuff, I'm having trouble parting with a few of my finds. Must work on detaching myself from what I buy.

I have no willpower.

A list of good things...

2011-05-02T17:21:00.005-05:00

I was stressed last week.

As if you couldn't tell from my last post. But I'm better now, and I have lots of things to be happy about.

1. Two of my friends worked really hard to get enough Michael Buble tickets in order for us to all sit together. Thanks Schlag and Nancy! Now I have TWO concerts to look forward to this summer!

2. I got these two items at a garage sale Saturday, but I don't think they'll end up in the booth....

I think the birdcage needs to sit

atop my piano, once I clean it up.

And I think this little green table should,

uh,

um,

go,

uh,

in my special room for now.

3. A few years ago, I found a vintage croquet set by the dumpster at the mister's apartment complex (when he was still just my special manfriend). I secretly put it in my trunk when he wasn't looking because he was adamantly against me "dumpster diving." I told him it wouldn't be dumpster diving because they weren't actually in the dumpster.

He still didn't go for it.

That's why I had to be sneaky.

Anyway, a few weeks ago, I took all the mallets and priced them individually to be sold in the booth. The set was missing some pieces and the mallets and balls didn't have all their matches. I thought maybe I could make more money this way.

And guess what?

Every single one of them sold this week. For a grand total of $15.00.

Next, I'll put the balls from the set in my booth.

If I can part with them.

They kinda look neat in a bowl......

Source

See???

Who wouldn't want vintage croquet balls in a bowl in their house?

That's what I thought.

I knew you'd feel the same way.

Sigh...

2011-04-29T10:31:00.000-05:00

Sometimes, when you feel the weight of the world on your shoulders, the simplest things can divert your attention. Even if it's only for a moment.

The sounds of "Colonel Mustard in the library with a candlestick" or "You sunk my battleship" make you smile and think of simpler, easier times.

Game Day at school is a welcome diversion. I like hearing my kiddos say these phrases as it transports me to my childhood. My sister and I wore those games out when we were little.

Then a kiddo comes to me with a Twilight trivia question. She wonders if I know the answer, since we've shared our love for the series with each other. I can't believe I'm able to answer correctly, and she loves that I actually know the answer.

Finally, a few of my girls beckon me over to show me something......

Between that and hearing "It's always Mr. Green!" I think it'll be okay.

2011-04-26T18:06:00.001-05:00

It's Schlager's fault I'm addicted to two things she introduced me to.

One being Shuttercal. Yep, I'm keeping up with the photo-a-day thing. They are mostly mundane pictures of my day to day life, but as lame as they usually are, it's still going.

The second is new to me. As of last night. And in less than 24 hours, I've fallen into a deep obsession with it.

It is Pinterest.

I set up a Pinterest page last night, and I love it. It is basically a spot to "pin" things you love. A way to keep ideas from the web organized in one spot.

You see a room you love. You pin it to your page. You find a rug you love. You pin it to your page.

I'm always bookmarking blogs or sites with pictures I like. Or I'm saving them to my hard drive. But not anymore! Now, with Pinterest, I don't have to do all that bookmarking or downloading. I simply pin it to my boards, and there it is, all organized and such, in one place. I can even create my own categories of things to pin!

Brilliant, I say!

Check out my Pinterest page. Make special note of my "wish list" board. You should probably buy the chevron rug for me. Any color will do.

Thanks in advance.

Just kidding!

Sort of.

Happy Easter!

2011-04-24T21:41:00.000-05:00

A rainy Easter called for moving the festivities to the living room.

Hiding eggs.......

Hunting eggs.....

Mom made a mean lemon chiffon cake....

And you all know how I feel about cake.

Don't Judge Me

2011-04-20T15:53:00.000-05:00

I'm not sure if I should admit this. But I just have to tell someone because I'm so excited!

Warning: To most frugal, practical, and thrifty folks, this will be an abomination. To the wallet.

That's why you shouldn't judge me. This is my one vice.

Let me have my one vice. Please.

Ready????

I have made "Gold Card" status with Starbucks.

Do you hear the choirs of angels singing too?

Look at it glow.

Like it was sent directly from heaven above.

You might be thinking, "Huh? What? How?"

Easy.....

Get a Starbucks gift card.
Register it online.
Use it.
Reload it.
Use it.
Continue reloading it. And using it.

Next thing you know, you get an email stating you're getting a re-loadable Starbucks card. In gold. With your name on the front.

And then it arrives in the mail. You do a little jig in the living room. You make the mister take a picture of you holding it. And then you take another picture of it. Up close. So everyone can see your name on it.

I wish it had arrived already loaded, but I can't wait to brandish it anyway at the Starbucks I go to often (almost daily).

I can hear that song from Cheers playing right now.

Only they don't know me by name.

They know me as "Grande Vanilla Latte."

Another Sir Story

2011-04-17T11:03:00.002-05:00

Sir ELTON JOHN, that is!

Wait....

You were expecting another Sir Chester story, huh?

Since I'd hate to disappoint you, I will share one quick escapade he's been on recently.

Sir Chester has taken to finding, playing with, and accidentally killing snakes. In our backyard. The tally is up to four, with one narrowly escaping death.

Let me tell you, I don't like snakes. Dead or alive. So luckily, the mister has been dealing with all the carnage.

But back to Elton.

On Wednesday, I got a phone call from the brother-in-law. He asked if I wanted my sister's Elton ticket. She had other non-negotiable plans.

Um, YES!

So last night I spent three hours listening to a legend......all his greatest hits, back to back, from the luxury of a suite. The man is a beast. He sang and played for three hours straight......no intermission.......no wardrobe changes. I was in awe of his talent......that voice........his skills on a piano.......his accent.....

You bet I got a t-shirt.

And took some video of his best song ever.

A once in a lifetime opportunity.

Thank you sissy and Seth.

What's for dinner?

2011-04-14T19:08:00.002-05:00

Do you ever find yourself with no food in the house?

Well, guess what? Your problem is solved!

I stumbled across a site that can produce a recipe based on what is in your cabinet.

My Fridge Food has a spot for you to click on things that you do have on hand (perishable to pantry items), and it produces recipes using only the ingredients you submitted.

I'm intrigued by it.

And I might be a little scared by it.

But overall, I think it sounds like a fun experiment!

Not tonight though.

Tonight is a fish stick/mac-n-cheese night. But not because my cupboards are empty.

I'm lazy.

For good reason though! The MAP test (our state achievement test) began this week, and golly, it drains kids and teachers. First of all, teachers have to be super prepared.

For instance, apparel during testing is of the utmost importance. You need to be comfortable. You should probably find a friend, and plan to wear something identical. And it would just be better if the identical article of clothing was a shirt that said something like "#2 is #1, if you're a pencil."

Because you know you can't use mechanical pencils.

And really, it's just funny. Good ole test humor. It lightens the mood.

Also, hula-ing at a MAP assembly really takes it out of ya.......

I was pretty much out of breath after our little number.

So, no food experiments tonight.

But I do need to coordinate next week's MAP outfits.

Dedicated to Sarah and Ashley

2011-04-11T22:05:00.001-05:00

I'm going to start reading a new book series.

I've resisted long enough.

If you hound me about something for a certain length of time, I might give in. It's been known to happen.

Stupid peer pressure.

Just like Twilight.

You think your resolve is strong. Then you end up with a snow day. And you happen to have a borrowed copy. You blow the dust off the cover. Open it. And suddenly you're on Team Jacob.

So let the reading commence......

AHHHHHHH!!!!!!

2011-04-09T08:18:00.000-05:00

So......

I made my first sale in my Relics booth.

Yessssssss!

It was a large basket. I had retrieved it from my storage unit last weekend and took it to the booth last Sunday.

Actually, I had two matching baskets......

I'm so glad I'm a hoarder!

There's still one more over there, I think!!!! It could be yours. Imagine vintage umbrellas peeking out the top. Or placing it on your hearth. Or in an entry next to a cute table.

Hmmm.....wait.......maybe I need it!

* * * *

What else?

Last night I ran out to a crazy antique sale.

And I mean CAAAA-RAZY.

CRAZY GOOD, that is!

It's called Pheona's Vintage Market, and it's in the small town of Billings, MO......

This cute little house (and yard) is filled to the brim with outstanding vintage treasures.......

Becoming a monster would have been easy. But it was so packed inside the house, that maneuvering with things tucked under the chin and arms would have been impossible. So I remained calm and walked away with only two things.

Even though I wanted half the contents of the house. And yard. Which is where I found my treasures: an old ladder and wire shelf.....

Both of which are going in my booth.

But not to sell.

Yes, you'll see "not for sale" tags hanging from both. I want them for display purposes.

The mister thinks everything I buy should be going to the booth and actually be for sale.

I don't think I'll tell him.

Be Impressed

2011-04-05T21:53:00.002-05:00

I would never, by any stretch of the imagination, call myself thrifty. Nor would any of my friends or family. But the more I read about clipping coupons, the more I wanna be that girl.

I do already make homemade laundry detergent, so I figure I'm on the verge of a financial revolution when it comes to grocery store trips. I even stumbled upon a recipe for dishwasher detergent, which I'm thinking about trying.

Recently, I also started hunting down the Sunday paper and have acquired a nice little stockpile of coupons. So a few days ago, I decided to hit up the store to see what bargains could be had. I went with no real goal in mind. Just use coupons to get cheap stuff. And I think I did pretty darn good!! I got all this for just $10.83...........

The Hamburger Helper was on sale for $1.00 a box, and I had a .75 off coupon. Four boxes ended up being $3.25.

Don't judge me for making Hamburger Helper for dinner. Or Tuna Helper. They are both quick and tasty.

So there.

Next came cereal. I had two .50 coupons. One for Chex and the other for Total. Both were already on sale for $2.00 a box. Pricecutter doubled those coupons, so I ended up with two boxes of cereal for $2.00. $1.00 each!!!!

The Texas Toast was on sale for $2.50, and I had a doubled forty cent coupon for it......so that was $1.70.

I had coupons for those other items too! They doubled all the coupons that were fifty cents or less. So with sales and coupons, I got those nine items for $10.83.

I was feeling pretty smug about that purchase. But I know there are techniques and tricks to the trade that I've never heard of. So enlighten me, folks. Tell me your secrets!!!

And just so you know, my "helper" dinners are for those nights that I'm lazy.

Tonight, however, I tackled our fave tilapia recipe with fresh green beans and new potatoes!

I was pretty much channeling Betty Crocker.

Monster

2011-04-03T10:03:00.000-05:00

That's me.

A monster.

I've created one. In myself.

This having a booth at an antique shop has me completely obsessed. And with beautiful weather this weekend, the beast was unleashed.

First, I went on a rummaging frenzy at home. My attic and special room yielded quite a few items that were priced and taken to Relics. A vintage suitcase and an old Cream of Wheat ad, to name a few.

Next, unexpectedly finding an estate sale in my neighborhood sent me over the edge.

I became a raving lunatic, scooping up vintage this and that! All marked with a quarter or one dollar. Vintage linens were tucked under my chin, and vintage picnic paraphernalia dangled from each hand. I didn't know I could carry that much.

I made out like a fat cat. Yes I did.

And I'm pretty sure I had a crazed look in my eye the whole time I was there. Especially when someone approached my pile, which I'd just put down so I could pay for it all.

I was very nice when I said that pile was spoken for.

I promise.

Finally, a trip to Red Rack closed out the impulsive shopping whirlwind. And more was found which could be added to the inventory. I was supposed to be going to the storage unit to hunt for more hoarded treasures, but got sidetracked along the way.

Yes, I have a storage unit.

Just be quiet.

Anyway, the finds of the day were incredible. Feast your eyes.......

All of this could be yours......

If I can part with it.

Love & Hate: Food Edition

2011-03-30T18:17:00.000-05:00

LOVE: White Chicken Chili

Yes, I realize we're on the edge of soup and chili season. But with the recent snowfall and temps in the 30's, I figured it was still okay to whip up a batch.

This recipe hails all the way from Miami, Oklahoma and was shared by a coworker last year (hollaaaaa to Andrea Singer). She graciously handed out the recipe, and I've been making it ever since. It is soooo easy and even more tasty.

I did tweak the directions a bit to accommodate some issues I had, which I'll explain further in a moment.

And because I'm too lazy to type out the ingredients and such, you get a photo of the recipe instead:

Like I said, I did deviate from the directions a little because this recipe calls for two things I detest.......

* * *

HATE: Onions and raw chicken

The only good kind of onion is a fried one. In the shape of a ring.

All other onions can take a flying leap.

I have hated onions since the beginning of time. So much so, that as a child, I would try to separate them from whatever they were in.........hide them in a napkin........and try to flush the whole lot.

Onions are very good at floating.

I had to get more crafty after that incident.

Anyway, for this recipe, I omit the onion step, which leads me to raw chicken......

Raw chicken makes me gag. I can barely touch it. It's slimy. There are yucky parts which need to be cut away.

Frozen chicken, which is cooked in a crockpot and not slimy, is how I roll.

But that adds a few hours to the process, so I thought I'd try canned chicken. I was extremely unsure of this choice, until I actually opened a can. It didn't look too suspicious. It was all white meat. I eat tuna from a can. How was it that different?

Yes, this was better than sauteing chicken with onions.

So I took the leap with two cans of chicken and a few shakes of onion powder, and I've never looked back. It tastes exactly the same as the original sample I'd gone crazy for. Annnnnd it's quicker. Easier too.

Mom would tell me that onions add flavor.

Whatever.

A New Adventure

2011-03-26T17:18:00.002-05:00

For years, I've thought about peddling my hoarded vintage treasures. And there are lots of avenues out there for doing that, but as a seller, I was reluctant to head down those paths.

I hated dealing with shipping, so eBay was not my first choice, although I had dabbled with it. That sort of left Etsy out of the picture too, with the whole shipping thing.

Also, Craigslist leaves something to be desired. I didn't want to meet up in a parking lot to sell a lamp or some other smaller piece. A washing machine? Sure! A vintage tablecloth? Uh, no.

Lastly, garage sales never work for things that you want a certain price for. And I get that. I don't want to pay antique shop prices at a yard sale, so I can't expect someone else to want to either.

That left me with only one real option, other than continuing to hoard...........Rent a booth at a local antique mall????

Which is exactly what happened today!!!

Thankfully, I'm not in it alone. Ashley and her mom approached me about taking this leap together, and Andrea was on board immediately too. So the four of us, are excited to be the proud renters of a space at Relics!!!

We found a perfect spot at the very back of the store, which is L shaped, and has a direct view of a future tea room. We hope it has a Leola's type of feel even if it is just a 4' by 8' space in the middle of a huge antique mall.

We can dream big, right?

Can't wait to get set up and begin our new little adventure!

Love and Hate: Spring Break Edition

2011-03-20T16:36:00.002-05:00

Spring Break Love:

1. Being able to thrift!!!

Behold two similar belts.........

One thrifted from Salvation Army for $1.20.

The other purchased for $30 at American Eagle.

Can you guess which is which?

* * *

2. Springing forward!!!

I love that the sun is hanging around a little longer each evening. And that I got a whole week off to adjust to the loss of an hour!

* * *

3. Catching up with my sissy and her bebes!

They have been in Hawaii since December 25th. They returned at the beginning of my break, so I got to see them whenever I pleased.

* * *

4. Home improvement!!

Getting my kitchen shelves installed and decorated, along with hanging some other hoarded finds felt really good. The house is feeling super cozy.

And while we're on the subject of home improvement, let's talk curtains. My friend Andrea helped me whip up some for my bathroom!

Not too bad for a Saturday afternoon......

The mister even approved and was excited that he no longer had to drape a towel across the window. Thank you, Andrea!!!!

* * * *

Now you might be wondering "What in the world is there to hate about spring break?"

Let's get to that!

Spring Break Hate:

1. It's over.

2. It gives you a taste of what summer feels like, and then it's snatched away from you in an instant. You are thrust back into reality, and you have to (gasp) work.

It's pretty cruel, if you ask me.

But would I do it over again?

You know it.

More Benefits of Hoarding

2011-03-17T14:45:00.001-05:00

If my mantel isn't proof enough that good things come from hoarding, maybe this will convince you?

Exhibit A:

What you're supposed to be looking at is that precious little picture. Let's look a little closer.....

This darling little lady was tucked away in the special room. I unearthed her recently and decided she should be placed in the bathroom above the toilet.

Golly, she makes me smile.

I love the little aquarium she's hovering over. I love how her little legs are crossed. I love the frame.

She was $4.95 on ebay. I remember being shocked that I was the only bidder on this beauty.

I did not warn the mister before I put the nail in the wall for her to hang from.

He's over it now.

* * * *

Exhibit B:

Behold the two landscape pictures:

Both Salvation Army finds, although not on the same day. Both $3.00 including the frames. Both found under the bed in the special room.

* * * *

In conclusion, I'd like to review two very important points......

#1. The special room is, in fact, special. Look at the loveliness that was recovered from the depths! Who doesn't need a room filled with random things you've purchased in the past that are waiting patiently for their moment?

#2. Hoarding thrifted finds in said special room yields decorating extravaganzas. I didn't have to purchase anything new for those empty spots. I simply walked down the hallway and crawled under a bed. Now two barren walls in my house are beautifully filled with hoarded vintage treasures.

You wish you had a special room too. I can sense it.

Diary of an Empty Spot in my Kitchen

2011-03-14T14:18:00.001-05:00

Once upon a time, my kitchen did not have a dishwasher.

Sometime in it's former life, the previous homeowner added one to the end of the kitchen. I was very thankful for this, even though it was a shady situation. First of all, it was a vintage, rust colored dishwasher. Second of all, the surround was made of thin particle board. And finally, they'd slapped a butcher block on top of it for counter space, and there was no cabinetry above it.

It looked like the afterthought it was. It hung off the end of the kitchen, practically in the living room, with nothing above it to tie it in.

This picture shows us in a dishwasher transition phase. I wish I'd taken a picture of the original dishwasher. Can't find one anywhere......

My parents bought a new dishwasher for my first Christmas in the house, and Dad made that sweet little beadboard surround (I love beadboard). Obviously, we hadn't quite tackled the counters just yet. Can you see how skanky that butcher block was? I never put anything on it. Then there was the vast expanse of wallpaper above it, which you can see a peek of.

* * * *

When the kitchen remodeling began, I had a plan for the empty space above the dishwasher. I really wanted to make the dishwasher addition feel original to the house and tie it in to the kitchen.

I began collecting vintage ivory colored pottery in all shapes and sizes.......

Down came the wallpaper.......

Priming was next......

Followed by painting.......

Then I had my very talented daddy build some shelves, and I painted them.........

Next I purchased and spray painted some brackets from Hobby Lobby.......

And finally today, on my first day of spring break, dad came over to install them......

Then I got to arrange all my goodies up there.......

I was so happy I cried when dad got them installed. I was giddy. I was thankful.

It's exactly what I envisioned for the space, and even though I need a few more pieces of pottery (and to actually plant that shamrock on the counter), this really is a dream come true.

So today, the Diary of a Kitchen comes to a close. And I am thrilled with the outcome.

And the winner is.........

2011-03-11T17:13:00.005-06:00

We will get to that in a minute.

First things first...

I wanna thank all those that participated! You guys are great guessers. More than a few predictions were pretty darn close! So thank you again for playing along. I hope you keep coming back to this little blog of mine. Even when I'm just talking about snow days, things I love and hate, or my domestic escapades.

Anyway, I should probably get down to business, which leads me to unveiling the grand total.

The final count was $48.81.

My bank even does the break down of how much of each coin there is..........

$17.00 in quarters! Over $8 in pennies! Not too shabby! It'll make a nice dent in whatever we decide to purchase.

But now, what you've all been waiting for. The person with the closet guess without going over was.........drum roll please.........

Whitney!!!

She was within a dollar of the total, barely squeaking by Andrea's guess of $47.53 by using a Price is Right type of strategy. Whit's guess was $48.00.

Congrats, Whit! You can happily go into a coffee coma on me! And just in time for Spring Break!

Oh, and, um, Whit? Andrea said she'd meet you out back behind the swings on the playground. She said she wanted to "congratulate" you.

I Feel Like..........

2011-03-08T19:35:00.009-06:00

A chicken with my head cut off.

This week has been b.u.s.y.

And it's only Tuesday!

It started with poor Sir Chester having to go to the vet for some tummy problems yesterday. Two rounds of mopping the waiting area and four bottles of medicine later, I think our little man is on the mend.

Isn't he the most regal looking car rider ever?

Such a good little man!

* * * *

Next came today's festivities........a shower for Ashley!!!

My coworkers and I got our craftiness on for this shindig. Behold the bunting......

And I got to use some of my vintage tablecloths........

And Ash got to open some lovely pressies........

I do believe it went off without a hitch!

* * * *

And because I've been sooooo busy, I haven't had a chance to run by the bank to see how much is in my piggy bank. But really, that's okay. Because the contest doesn't end til Friday at noon. So if you're just finding this out, you've still got time to enter! Check it out, if you're curious.

Lauren did have a great question about the contest.......would the $10 be taken out of the piggy bank, thus affecting the total?

The answer is, NO.

I will not steal from the piggy bank to purchase the prize. The change amount will not be tampered with.

Girl Scout's Honor.

* * * *

Now onto a more serious matter: The mister's sock drawer.

Or the lack thereof, I mean.

I feel compelled to defend the sock bag. And maybe myself.

The mister didn't like his dresser either. He planned on getting rid of it anyway. As for not replacing it with something else yet, we haven't found anything we like. We have shopped and shopped. We know Furniture Row like the back of our hand.

I swear.

Pinky promise!

Really!

Please like me even though the mister has a sock bag.

Please!

A contest you should probably participate in......

2011-03-05T17:36:00.021-06:00

Our piggy bank is full, so it's time to cash it all in.

The mister and I have some plans for this money. We just aren't sure which idea to go with......

Possibility #1: We have carriage style garage doors that have their own controllers, so they open separately. And the mister's side is broken.

Awwwww, too bad for the mister, huh?

I suppose he deserves to park in the garage too.

So we could buy a new opener with the money.

* * * *

Possibility #2: We could also make a dent in a new dresser for our bedroom.

The mister's bedroom furniture was banned from moving in with him. It was, after all, a water bed from the 80's with a sort of matching wardrobey dressery thing. So due to the furniture prohibition, he doesn't really have a sock drawer.

He has a sock bag.....

He needs a sock drawer.

* * * *

You probably feel sorry for the mister right about now, don't you?

You shouldn't.

He's fine.

Really!

* * * *

Possibility #3: Finally, we may have to start a new fund altogether and put this chunk of change toward it. It's called the "Sir Chester has just started jumping the fence, so we need a privacy fence" fund.

Yes, this is a new development in the life of Sir Chester. He's discovered he can scale our fence in a single bound.

It's quite remarkable.

And frustrating.

I swear he escaped from the circus
prior to becoming our little man.

* * * *

So the time has come, with a full-to-the-brim piggy bank, to cash in all that change. Then we'll have to decide how it's gonna be spent.

I love predicting how much is in the piggy bank before I cash it in. Soooooo let's play a game......

Directions: Make a "how much change is that" prediction in the comments area.

Prize: The winner gets to choose between a $10 Starbucks or Sonic gift card. So when you comment, tell me your preference!

Rules: Your guess has to be closest to the amount without going over. I'll take guesses all week. Guessing time will come to a close on Friday, March 11th at noon. I'll post the amount sometime after that, along with the lucky winner! I'll even prove the amount with the receipt from my bank! Then depending on who wins, I'll either hand deliver it or mail it!

To further assist you, I'll even provide the piggy bank dimensions......

Calling all readers, whoever you are, whether I know you or not (I do like making new friends), whether you've never commented or you comment regularly, be wild and crazy, and give it your best guess! How much will all those quarters, nickels, dimes, and pennies add up to?

Just think, it could be YOU sipping that vanilla latte or eating some tots if your guess is the best.

A Terrific Hole in the Ground

2011-03-02T16:36:00.005-06:00

Maybe you've heard of it?

It's also known as Fantastic Caverns, and it was our destination point today!

That means Field. Trip. Time.

Yesssssssss!!!

I was super excited about this trip. Because I'd only been one time when I was a little girl.

And because I like caves.

I probably should have been a spelunker.

Um, anyways....

Days such as this require some preparation. Packing a tasty lunch is first on the list.....

A well prepared teacher also packs a bag o' randomness. Anything you think you might need. Even toilet paper.

You never know.

You also wear school colors on field trip days.....

You just do.

And make sure you're armed with a camera for all the great sights you'll see........

Stalagmites and stalactites are the neatest.

Cave formations, in general, are spectacular.

Caves are just plain old cool.
And field trips to caves are excellent.

Perfect weather for a picnic on their grounds. Perfect presentation and tour!

On behalf of myself and my fourth graders, way to go Fantastic Caverns!

This Vintage Grove

Dear Winter,

eeeekk, an update, and a recipe

What I Wore.......

Thrifting Frenzy

And the winner is.....

A Cheap D.I.Y.

A Giveaway

What I Wore.....Tuesday

Love and Hate

Thrifting Frenzy

Day Late.....

Dear Winter,

What I Wore Wednesday....

Looking Back....and Forward

Christmas Break

What I Wore Wednesday

Thrifting Frenzy

Sometimes...

Shiny Brite Obsession

Recently I....

DIY No Sew Tree Skirt

Thanksgiving Break

One Week In

Fashion Muse

A Challenge

The Big Red Coat

More Falling Stories

Falling

Recently I....

Pinspiration

Thrifting Frenzy

Strollers, Taffy, and a Sharpie

Love & Hate: Work Edition

A Domestic Escapade Failure

A Conversation

Fall Frenzy

Above the copy machine...

Weekends are good!

A Weakness

Slow as molasses...

Pinterest & A Public Service Annoucement

Top Ten List: Fall

Memory Lane

I wish I had a dollar...

A new phase of work shenanigans....

Hodgepodge....

The Booth

It's that time again....

A Makeover Story

Updates

While the mister's away....

U2

A Prayer

A Keeper

And then there was light!

Let there be light!

Two Fifths

Summer is good for....

It was like Christmas

Paint, Relics, and Burritos

Michael Buble

Wedding Week Recap

Sneak Peeks

Looking in two directions

Dreaming of Paint

Will you accept this rose?

School's Out!

Something Monumental

Love and Hate

Prayers

Shoes

The Special Room

Vulture

May 8th

SUCCESS!!!

A list of good things...

Sigh...

Pinterest

Happy Easter!