Learning How to Say "When"

That's my shoulder.

Yesterday was a beautiful day and I was actually pretty productive.  My Saturdays usually include things like watching a marathon of "48 Hour Mystery"'s and...napping.  If I'm lucky I clean the kitchen and get a load of laundry done.  We woke up yesterday around 8:00 and we were only lazy for about an hour.  Then we got dressed, went to the gym for an hour and a half.  Then we came home and got ready to go to our local pool!

I was a little hesitant considering I have pasty white skin and I haven't been tanning or anything of the sort for quite some time.  My husband told me that I shouldn't put on any sunscreen for at least an hour.  I scoffed at him considering I burn in 20 minutes of direct sun exposure.  I put on SPF 4 with the intent of keeping it on for 15 minutes.

Well we all know how this goes -the sun feels so good and you're not getting that hot...30 minutes later I decided that I should probably put something on so I sprayed my legs (not that well) and kept reading my book and soaking up some vitamin D.  Yep - I'm stupid.

A big ominous cloud came rolling in and we decided it was probably time to go, and after we got home I realized I had a pretty nasty tan line, and I was FRIED.  Already.  I was mad!  I didn't want to get burned - I barely wanted anything.  I'm going on vacation on Thursday and I do not want to sit inside or sit in the shade because my skin is burnt!  I want to enjoy the sun like everyone else!  Needless to say since yesterday afternoon there have been 5 different applications of aloe on my shoulders, stomach and upper thighs.  Luckily my back didn't get burnt but do I smell minty!

The rest of the afternoon was spent cleaning my place.  Since we'll be having family come in Wednesday night, I wanted to make sure our house was clean.  Really clean.  I don't know why but when I know people are coming into town, the "hostess" in me comes out and I can't leave well enough alone.  "I should buy new pillow cases."  "I should pick up a couple new towels.  We have enough but you can never have enough white towels, right?"  "I need to clean these baseboards."  "I should vacuum behind the washing machine and dryer."  "I am not cleaning this toilet one more time!  I am not the one who lifts the seat!"  "I need to organize our pantry and clean the inside of the refrigerator."

See?  Obsess much?  So over the course of cleaning yesterday my stress level slowly climbed more and more.  When I got home from the pool I was drained, but by 8:00 last night I was wide awake and vacuuming in my laundry room.  Before you diagnose me with OCD, please note that one of the family members staying is known for her cleaning prowess.  I've caught her vacuuming the vacuum before.  And yes, I was this close to calling her "Monica."  And while she's lovely and would never judge me or my house because my skills are far less superior, I just feel that my place should be her level of clean because I want to make her feel comfortable.  Even if she's staying for less than 24 hours.  The "hostess" in me is out of control right now.

So considering yesterday I was preoccupied with cleaning, and my range of motion is limited because of my poor, poor skin, there were no crafts done.  Its not like they weren't thought about.  I offered to guest post for two people and I had the intention of getting two different crafts done with accompanying posts.  I have Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday to get those done this week and I only have 1 idea.  A trip to JoAnn's needs to be made, and that's always scary because the potential to find A LOT of stuff I want is very high.

I have every intention of getting crafts done this week and hopefully to the right people, but today...there just are none. I need to learn when to say "when" and let go of stuff I can't control and realize people aren't going to take a white glove to my house.  But just in case...

A new place to waste time

A couple days ago I was wasting time and browsing through Wonderwall like I do when I'm really bored. Like reeeeeaally bored.

I'm not on there often, thankfully, but while I was on there I saw a little snippet about Zooey Deschanel. She's a favorite of mine, so I clicked and read about whats new with her. She started discussing a comedy website she created just for girls, Hello Giggles.

She says:

"We wanted to do a comedy website for women and girls. I felt like there wasn't a place that was specifically stuff that made me and my friends laugh. It was more stuff that was geared towards guys that maybe made us laugh a little bit. It's evolved from the original idea we had and become its own thing, which is really cool. It's about people writing stuff that they're passionate about, that makes us laugh and entertains us in the end. It's so much fun."

After I clicked through the interview I made a mental note to check it out because I'll take Zooey Deschanel's word for it.

So yesterday at the beginning of a slow afternoon I stopped by and I'm now a fan. After 30 minutes I was giggling to myself at my desk. This site is girls talking about what they like, dislike and laugh about. There are posts on topics from the helpful to the hilarious and everything in between. There are so many topics to choose from too!

I'm already such a big fan. In fact, I wasted way more time than I care to admit while at work on that site. Seriously - take a look.

Counting down the minutes...

Alright kids, I take off next Thursday morning. And when I say "morning" I mean 3:30 - 4:00 a.m. range. We wanna get there so there's time to enjoy some sun after we drop off the suitcases and throw on swimsuits. Then we're rushing that lake like there's no tomorrow!!

Then we'll probably scream and run away the second our feet hit the water because, dude, that lake is so cold. Year round! Why does it never warm?!


So anticipation of the blue, blue lake and clear blue sky I did the blue thing. Which I'm sure I've done before but we all know I don't put enough effort into researching that fact.

1. Here. 2. Here. 3. Here. 4. Here. 5. Here. 6. Here. 7. Here.

#5 & #6 are from a fun store called Fuego. We don't have them in Utah and on a long trip to Idaho last week, we decided to stop in Boise and stretch our legs. Also - whenever I'm in Boise I have to stop at either the Blue & Orange Store or the Boise State Bookstore for my husband - who is one of the biggest BSU fans...ever. Since my Mom and I were on the lookout for something different than what we have in Utah, we stopped in Fuego and ended up staying for about an hour, looking at the fun novelty stuff and knick knacks. That hat - I came this close to buying it. I didn't though and I'm kicking myself because, guys -it was so cute. However, I did buy #3, and it is comfortable! I'm loving the key earrings too. I just like stuff like this - sometimes its good to stray from the ordinary.

Also on my fun blue search:

This Chevron Duvet

In a word: Trendy. And since trendy things tend to be outdated in seconds, it would be a poor decision to purchase it -but can you think of all the possibilities?! All the colors and palettes this would go with? Pairing it with shapes and textures and finishes? The mind reels. This could be beyond cute in a guest bedroom.

Found via Pinterest.

This mirror is so cute and simple. Not too ornate, the blue isn't too bold - and it would be so cute in my living room. Also - that baby is a cutie too.

And then, of course, Friday wouldn't be Friday without the shoes:

"Twinkle in your Eye Flats"
Found: Ruche
Price: $72.99
Pretty much out of stock.

These are way more than I would spend on flats but I love the color. I also love that these look like they'd be way comfortable.
Color Block Hidden Platform Pump
Found: Charlotte Russe
Price: $35.50

These remind me of a peacock...or a parrot. On your feet. While I can't think of a reason to wear these, it doesn't mean I wouldn't try them on.


Mark & James by Badgley Mischka Magnolia
Found: Zappos
Price: on sale for $204.00

These cute wedges are only that price because of the brand they bear. They're the kind of shoe that you know you can buy somewhere else for $30. You just know it, deep down. Don't get me wrong, they're cute wedges, but they'd better make me feel like I'm walking on clouds for $200+.

Well that's the fun for today. I hope I can get something together craft/ recipe wise for Sunday, if not please forgive me. I have vacation on the brain and while I love to craft - this trip is heavily anticipated.

I have some lovely guest bloggers lined up for your blog stalking pleasure while I'm gone. I promise you won't be disappointed!


Have a lovely weekend!

Window Shoppin! 7/6/11 - The Maxi Edition

Am I super cheesy for using that as a title? It feels cheesy, even if it's true. I decided to scout out some nice Maxi dresses and I found some great candidates. While some maxi's have the potential to look more maternity than anything else there are some great and comfortable options out there.

The biggest reason I'm a fan of the maxi is because of comfort. I'm actually not a dress wearer except for Sundays. I dislike wearing dresses and skirts except for those occasions. Mainly because you need to be very conscious about how you sit and have to give extra time and thought into shaving and if you're blinding helpless citizens with your pasty white skin. But Maxi dresses...well your legs are covered! Also - they're just plain comfortable to begin with. And sitting in them? Please. Unless you're a crazy thrasher, you could NAP in these babies! They're also the PERFECT outfit if you're sunburned. And I know this from experience.

Now to save myself on time and linking, I'm just telling you the way that I would wear a good maxi is with a good Demi tee. But that's just me.

1. Here. 2. Here. 3. Here. 4. Here. 5. Once again you can tell I wasn't paying attention. Please see #2. 6. Here.

Now the headband I've featured before, but I really love it. I like the color and striping on this Maxi dress but since it's striping, one should always try it on first. You just never know how they'll fall on you. They can either be very flattering or be your worst enemy. The shoes have buckles and I have an affinity for buckles in accessories. I just do. And the tribal necklace wouldn't necessarily be the first thing that would catch my eye at the store but it's important to try new things, right?

Now more from the Maxi parade:

Link: Here.
Yellow is a tricky color for my skin, but on the right girl this would be so cute!

Link: Here.
I really like this color. It's very bright and summery. I'd probably wear this with some no-hassle white sandals or flip flops. Easy is the name of the game with Maxi's.

Link: Here
And another halter maxi - the royal blue is very cute too. This would be perfect for a swimsuit cover up as well.

Link: Here.

I love the crochet straps on this maxi - what a cute dress!

Link: Here
This layered maxi is so pretty! This isn't your nap in/ cover up/ sunburned maxi like I originally looked for but it's so lovely that I just had to include it!

Link: Here
I like the braided back on this maxi. Not exactly for strolling around in the hot sun but definitely an option.

Link: Here
These would be cute with some maxis to dress up!

Link: Here
And these would be great to keep it casual.

Really Maxi's are great for this time of year. Throw on and go and I always love something that has a lot of options.

Well that's the wish list for today. What are some of your finds?

Hoo Are You? #46

I'm back at work after a six day break. The break can't be called a "vacation" because it included a trip to rural Idaho for a funeral. I was able to get back home Friday evening and used up the rest of the vacation to find the will to craft and rest my weary (both physically and emotionally) self.

So since I've had such a long break and have another one coming up in 8 days, I decided I should probably just post something already!

So thanks to Night Owl Crafting I'm participating in another "Hoo Are You?"







1. How did you spend the 4th of July?

Well, it wasn't that spectacular. Since everything has been up in the air with leaving town for a funeral, we didn't really put together a plan for the 4th. Last year we were in Las Vegas, the year before we went up the canyon, roasted S'mores and made it down in time for fireworks. But this year, we got Olive Garden to-go, and watched a movie and then watched the TV celebration. I wouldn't suggest it as a patriotic celebration of your freedom.

2. What were a couple of your favorite things you ate on the 4th of July?

Well...yesterday I had both the Zuppe Toscana soup and the Carbonara Chicken and Ravioli and both were really, really good. In fact, I get to eat the rest of it tonight! However, in the past my favorite 4th of July treats have been anything hot off the grill and pie. Because I'm a flag-waving American and I love grilled foods too.


5. Did you watch fireworks?

We discussed it and looked up all the places that would have shows in the valley, but because of city budget cuts, and the fact that I HATE the parking nightmare after the fireworks are over, we decided to just scrap the idea. We ended up leaving all the windows open, watching the neighborhood fireworks and watching the Macy's 4th of July celebration on TV. Fun Fact: up until yesterday I had absolutely no idea there were TV specials for the 4th of July. Ever since I can remember we were outside with sparklers or at Town Days Celebrations. And I'm going to make it a goal to never watch TV fireworks again. Not even close to as cool as the real thing.

4. What is your favorite firework?

The really, really big ones they always use for the finales. The kind that are so big that you're slightly worried because they seem a little too close. The kind that are so loud that you feel the boom in your bones and even though you're anticipating it, it still makes you jump. They're usually gold and really glittery too. I love those ones.

5. How hot was it where you were for the 4th?

Not as hot as it usually is on the 4th. It's usually pushing 100 but yesterday was overcast and as the sun went down it was hovering at 81 degrees. Which was nice, but not at all common. Then again the weather has been weird like that all year. Weird enough that people went skiing yesterday...in bikinis and speedos.

I Heart Them: The Faerie Market by Betsey Withey

*First let me just say: I have never talked to the head honcho at any of these Etsy shops. I haven't been asked nor do I get anything out of discussing these Etsy shops. I'm just telling you because I "heart" them.

Today I'd like to share The Faerie Market. I think the reason I'm so drawn to the items in this shop is because I haven't seen anything like this in stores. Maybe you have but I haven't. Also - I can't do this. I couldn't if I tried. This takes attention to detail. This takes tender love and care. I take...shortcuts.

These pieces aren't only interesting, unique and beautiful - they're also art. Seriously. As a person who has zero credibility when it comes to the word "Art," I feel sheepish making that statement - but that's what this is. Also...it's really cute.

I want this headband. Adorable, right?

And there's a lot more where that came from. Seriously - go look and marvel at the details and craftsmanship...and cuteness.


And while you at it have a FANTASTIC 4th! Happy Birthday to the Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave!

Baby Gift: Poppy Flower Onesie

I just finished what I like to call "The Poppy Onesie." These flowers don't really look like poppies but the inspiration came from this tutorial at The Pleated Poppy.

I actually used this tutorial last year to make this t-shirt:

Mine is different than Lindsey's at the Pleated Poppy. Don't get me wrong, I love hers, but after having a few different t-shirts with floppy flower embellishments...that I have to iron and re-iron after I wash, I wanted something that wouldn't need extra care after coming out of the dryer. So the difference is that I went through and stitched down the edges to give the flowers a really ruffly effect.

Like this:

I know this kind of looks like a hot mess, but actually on, I get a lot of compliments on it. And we all know that when you get the "Where did you get that?" question on something you made - that's the ultimate sign you didn't screw up.

So because of my pet peeve about having to take special care on embellished shirt flowers, I decided to give my sister in law a break and sew the flowers down too.

Here's the tutorial:

What you'll need:

1. Thread - preferably that matches the fabric you're using. 2. This is actually the bag of scraps I kept from my original shirt shown above. What they are, are old white t-shirt circles. That's right - you'll need t-shirt or knit material, but what I used was an old stained t-shirt I was going to throw away anyway. Also in that bag - pins. Yes, you'll probably want some pins too. Cheap and easy. 3. Whatever it is that you're embellishing. 4. Scissors.

Step One:

Cut out a circle, or something that resembles a circle out of the knit material you have. This doesn't have to be perfect.

Step Two:

Fold the circle into fourths so you have a triangle.

Step Three:

At the bottom/ tip of the triangle you just folded, run a few stitches through it. You can also see these steps through Lindsey's tutorial as well.

Step Four:

This is what you'll get after you stitch through the middle. Once you have a few of those, you'll begin placing them on the onesie/ whatever you're embellishing. DO NOT SEW THEM ON YET. You'll want to place them where you like them first, pin them, and once you're happy with the placement - sew.

Step Five:

This is the placement I decided on. So I removed the pins and sewed them to the onesie through the middle. As you can see, you can stop there - it's still really cute at this point, but if it bothers you to have to iron things down once they're out of the wash...

Step Six: (Optional)

Take a needle/ sewing machine and roughly stitch around the edges of the circles. I made mine overlap in different ways and while I don't have "during" pictures, it's really simple to do.

So this is the end result:

See? Easy. And what's more? My sister in law won't have to worry about sad, wrinkled flowers out of the wash because they're sewed down. This little onesie can be paired with cutie little pants, skirts, or whatever else my SIL wants to put her in. I'll probably make her something similar in a headband. Maybe that'll be next week's tutorial?

That's about it - if anyone gives it a try please let me know it goes!!

Linking Up: See the "I Like to Party" link up top!

TCB, A2Z, TM,