room*6

Tips for Painting Doors

2012-01-25T11:49:00.003-05:00

This week I have been tackling my to do list. This involved painting four doors. I am 5'4" and although that is not too short I have a hard time getting the tops of the doors. A pair of inexpensive saw horses solved this problem. I took the doors off the hinges and removed all hardware. I found that removing the hardware is quicker than cleaning paint off of them. I used a HANDy cup and a 2 inch angled brush and followed the door diagram below. The only hiccup in this project was the new gallon of trim paint is slightly off from the original color. I know that you are supposed to purchase multiple gallons and mix them. Lesson learned. The banister is next and I am not looking forward to that.

SOURCES

Get Hooked

2012-01-24T11:36:00.003-05:00

I stumbled across this fun blog, Hooked on Houses. Easy to get addicted! I did not know that about House Hunters!!! One of my favorite TV houses is the one featured on Good Luck Charlie. Yes, I watch and I think it is funny. LOVE the mom!

Their family room is so much fun. The rug, the insect prints and pillows, and the green staircase are my favorites!

SOURCE

What is your favorite TV house?

Beauty and the Beast

2012-01-21T17:09:00.003-05:00

One of our favorite movies over here is Beauty and the Beast. The whole family went to see the 3D version and Madeline and Addie dressed up as Belle. She blended in well at Wendy's. Wyatt fell asleep during the movie... boys.

Free Camera Flash Diffuser

2012-01-19T10:11:00.002-05:00

While strolling down Pinterest Lane I spotted this pin:

Source: diyphotography.net via Stephanie on Pinterest

Hmmm. I gotta try this. I grabbed a 3x5 index card and a piece of tape and started shooting. For the sake of experiment all shots are SOOC and I just used my AUTO setting with the flash. I thought that this worked well both horizontal and vertical. All you need is willing participants such as, my daughter. She loves to have her picture taken!

With Diffuser

Without

With diffuser

Without

SOPA STRIKE

2012-01-18T08:10:00.002-05:00

Project: Shabby Dress KO

2012-01-17T10:14:00.002-05:00

I love to sew and usually I sew for my daughter or her dolls, but I decided to branch out and sew something for me! I am challenging myself to sew a dress for Easter. I will admit that I am a little nervous, but you gotta start some where. Back in the day I did make a skirt with darts, set-in waistband, and a zipper. I love, love, this Shabby Apple dress:

Inspiration

Source: shabbyapple.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

I think that look can be achieved. I picked up these patterns for .99 cents yesterday at JoAnn's. I did learn something VERY valuable. Your retail size is not your pattern size so measure yourself before pattern shopping or embarrass your bff my measuring yourself in the middle of the fabric store as I did! I also like this pattern review site. Real people with photos of their finished garments.

Now I just need some fabric... I am going to do a trial run with something inexpensive. Wish me luck!

Kettle Light

2012-01-16T08:48:00.002-05:00

See that spot light above the sink? Not my favorite. After a lot of searching and pinning I narrowed my choice down to this light.

Source: lowes.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

I really love the new light! It has actually been installed since Thanksgiving. Now we just need to tackle those cabinets...

Crescent Rolls 3 Ways

2012-01-13T19:38:00.000-05:00

Over the last week we have tried three different recipes via Pinterest using crescent rolls. I usually pick the rolls up at Sam's for a good price. All three were good, and it is hard to pick a favorite. I guess it just depends what you are in the mood for! The breakfast ones have cream cheese and blueberries, mmmm. I love that combo! We use ham and provolone for the lunch version and my oldest could not stop eating them. The peanut butter and chocolate ones were also yummy. Chocolate and peanut butter is another pairing that this Reese's lover could not resist.

1, 2, 3

A Pair of Antlers

2012-01-12T14:00:00.000-05:00

I have been drooling over these prints by Pixie Pixels for a little while and decided that they were just what I needed. I ordered mine in Robin's Egg. I purchased new white mats for only $3.99 a piece. I love the new look and fun vibe the prints give the room.

Source: etsy.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

BEFORE

DURING

AFTER

How cute are those?! Hubby is still a little skeptical, but they are exactly what I was looking for! The prints came is sturdy rolled tube and were printed on heavier paper.

I am very pleased and I will purchase from this shop again!

Three Great Finds for $21

2012-01-10T09:49:00.000-05:00

A week ago I stopped at Meijer for some grocery's and came home with three new items for my home. Before Christmas I had spotted the Katie Brown hounds tooth place mats, but passed. I scored four for only .49 cents apiece!!! I actually did a happy dance in the middle of the store. I think the kids were embarrassed...

When I shop I usually hit every aisle just in case there might be a great deal and I came across this wire thing in the floral section marked down to $4.99. I have no idea what it is, but I like it. It could also be spray painted...

Last, but not least I picked up this Katie Brown (I love all the Katie Brown stuff) log basket for $14.00 It is big and heavy! I have a gas fireplace so there will be no logs, but I am envisioning a wood top to use as a little table or maybe an ottoman for the cream chair... Oh, the possibilities!

Lego and AG Doll Storage

2012-01-09T12:49:00.000-05:00

Two organizational projects that I completed before Christmas was Legos and 18" Doll Accessories. We have both coming out our ears. I really loved this Lego storage, but the $100 price tag was not in my budget. I wanted to utilize some book shelves that we already had and decided to use shoe storage boxes for only $16. I had purchased over 1600 Legos bricks for Christmas and knew we needed a better storage system.

The last tote holds all instructions and our brick separator.
If you do not have that... run to the Lego Store and get one!

Current project boxes

I did not feel that labels were necessary as you can see the different colors and two out of my three kids do not read.

My next project was tackling all of Madeline's doll accessories. Her dolls have totally taken over half of her closet. I purchased a hanging shoe bag for $8, cut to size and screwed it into the closet. I did hit one stud (on accident of course). Everything is organized and she does a great job of cleaning up her doll stuff now that there is a place for everything.

The hanging clothes rack is a tension rod. Who says doll storage has to be expensive?!

2012

2012-01-01T13:31:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year!

2011 was a good year for us and I will spare you the walk down memory lane by reviewing my year. As far as looking forward to 2012 I have a few goals that I will continue to work on:

Personal Goals

1. Lose that blasted weight

2. Tone up the bod

3. Read my Bible every day

4. Try not to sweat the small stuff

My Home Goals can be found here. Most of them are leftovers from 2011, but nonetheless need to be completed and I added some more. I also wrote out a wish list. All home renovations will be paid in cash (no financing) and that will determine what will get done first.

Happy goal setting!

Just One More Christmas Post

2011-12-22T08:47:00.001-05:00

We are done baking (thank goodness). It always starts out with joy, but then I am usually crying towards the end. We made six different sweets and my favorite by far were these sugar cookies. They came out just right, not too soft or hard and the icing was fun to apply (we used paint brushes).

Really, this is my last post before Christmas....

Merry Christmas

Wrapping Up

2011-12-19T13:20:00.004-05:00

Today I made the Pioneer Woman's Leftover Turkey Pot Pie and it was so good that I had two servings for lunch! I used our leftover turkey from Thanksgiving and substituted corn for peas. I also had some leftover pie crust too and that made this a quick meal to throw together. One tip: Put a cookie sheet below pie dish to catch the bubbly goodness. Your oven will thank you!

This week we are wrapping up Christmas. The shopping is done, but I have a few presents left to wrap. The kids and I have more baking to do and some cleaning is in order before family arrives. Four out of the five family members have caught a bug and we are trying to kick its' butt before Christmas. My sister-in-law noticed that I was slacking on blog posts last week and this week will be no different. I am taking the time to enjoy my family and I did knock out a couple of organizational projects that I can not wait to share in January.

Have a wonderful Christmas and New Year!

Rudolph

2011-12-14T13:39:00.001-05:00

I thought I was finished decorating for Christmas and then I saw this:

Source: goodhousekeeping.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

How cute is that?! I have always admired this version of antlers so this was a good trial run. Printing the template was easy and cutting the cardboard was not difficult, just time consuming. I used a little glue to keep everything in place and glitter glue for the nose. We decided that ours needed blue eyes just for fun!

Get your Bake On

2011-12-14T09:18:00.000-05:00

That does not even make sense does it? Well, moving on. Last week we made snicker doodles. Mmmm, they are my favorite to make with the kids because they are so easy! I only made a half batch and they did not last long.

Christmas Cookies

2011-12-13T11:59:00.001-05:00

Every year the kids and I bake cookies to pass out to friends and family. We also eat a lot ourselves! This year I plan on baking the following:

Sources

Evening with Santa

2011-12-10T10:09:00.001-05:00

Every year Wyatt's school has a shin-dig called "Evening with Santa". The proceeds benefit the school and it is two hours of games, cookie decorating, letter writing, and meeting Santa and the missus. Madeline was not keen on talking to Santa. The boys loved it! Here are some pictures courtesy of my camera phone.

Wyatt's prize. He was surprised when classmates recognized him!

Snowflakes and Wreaths

2011-12-10T08:59:00.001-05:00

See those teeny tiny snow flakes? The kids were trying to catch some on their tongues, but they really were not big enough. We are dreaming of a white Christmas!

Here is the door this year. I love my glitter retro bow. The wreath is glittery too, but it is hard to see. This is the first year since we were married that I did not put out the Williamsburg wreath with fresh fruit. Sometimes a little change is nice.

Christmas 2010

Christmas 2011

Keeping Sane around the Holidays

2011-12-09T09:53:00.001-05:00

With so much hustle and bustle around the holidays there are few things that I have done that have kept me sane so far.

Sticking to my deep cleaning schedule
Menu planning
Using organizational tools for my Christmas purchases

Here are two of the recipes that I used this week. Stuffed Green Peppers and Crock Pot Potato Soup. I just cubed potatoes for the soup rather than using hash browns. Next time I am thinking of adding bacon (hubby's suggestion).

Source: tasteofhome.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Source: pearls-handcuffs-happyhour.blogspot.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

I hope that you are using tools that work for you and are having a stress free holiday!

Christmas Crafts with the Kids

2011-12-06T10:36:00.001-05:00

Two crafts that caught my were salt dough ornaments and a hand print Christmas tree.

Source: christmas.yourway.net via Stephanie on Pinterest

Source: ucreatewithkids.blogspot.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Here is our version of the tree. It is in the disaster of a powder room. I like the tree a lot better than the previous print. I spray painted the mat with silver metallic paint and popped a 12x12 paper on top.

Here is our colorful salt dough ornaments. I love Luke's psychedelic gingerbread boy.

Please excuse the mountain of clean laundry. Sometimes crafts come first.

Shh, Can you keep a secret?

2011-12-06T10:07:00.001-05:00

I just can not wait to show you what Matt made for Madeline for Christmas. As you know Madeline LOVES her dolls and plays endless tea parties using her step stool as a table, but there is only enough room for two. I saw this on Pinterest and knew that we could make our own.

Source: ana-white.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Our table measures 19"x19". It is big, but we needed it to work for 3 dolls. Here are some pictures that I snuck while the kids were asleep. I painted it lilac because Madeline loves any shade of purple.

Isn't that party ware so cute!!! We found them at Meijer in the American Girl craft section for $5. I know that Michael's also carries AG crafts. The spoons are the sample ones from Baskin Robbins.

If any one is interested in a table I believe that we are going to sell unfinished ones soon. Let me know if you are interested.

Favorite Christmas Song

2011-12-05T10:05:00.001-05:00

My favorite Christmas song is God Rest You Merry Gentlemen. I explained to my kids how the kings used the star as their GPS. They thought that was cool.

Here is a version that I like.

Christmas Lights

2011-12-05T09:38:00.001-05:00

Remember when my sweet husband did this? Well, that was the first Christmas decor to go up! I bought the stuff last year thinking I could use something battery operated, but that never happened. Matt picked up this nifty remote control set at Lowes and we were in business!

These are the same trees from last year. I love the way they look from the outside.

The Nutcracker looks lonely.

My favorite of the tree!

Jolly Coasters

2011-12-02T11:03:00.001-05:00

I have a coaster obsession. For the last few months we have been using our map coasters, but I thought we needed some festive ones for the holiday season. This time I used fabric instead of paper and I like the results better. I did two coats so this project only took half an hour and I already had the supplies so it was free!

Christmas Wall Decor

2011-11-29T10:11:00.001-05:00

I have two large frames above the fireplace that needed a festive touch! I searched on Pinterest and found two free prints that fit the bill. Both prints offer different colors and I went with the blue hues to coordinate with my decor although the red might have looked better. I resized the images in PE to a 11x14 and printed them at Walgreens for only fourteen dollars and change.

Source: jonesdesigncompany.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Source: rebeccacooper.blogspot.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Last year's splurge, Pottery Barn stockings.

Sneak peek of our tree!

This is for LaNae. Enjoy!

Christmas Pillows

2011-11-29T09:57:00.001-05:00

I wanted some festive pillows without the high price tag. This week Target has their Christmas placemats on sale for $3.00 each. I already owned two pillows that were the perfect size to put inside. I opened up one side with a seam ripper, stuffed the pillow inside and sewed the pillow closed. After Christmas I will consider adding either a zipper or velcro closure, but my impatience got the best of me. Allison of House of Hepworth's has a great tutorial here if you are interested in making your own placemat pillows!

Glam Christmas

2011-11-29T09:45:00.001-05:00

Last year I did not have a dining room so it was fun decorating this new room. I picked up the beaded garland and silver potpourri after Christmas for a steal and shopped my house for the rest of the decor. I love the subtle silver, turquoise, and champagne color.

Food, Food and More Food!

2011-11-22T09:00:00.000-05:00

I am hosting Thanksgiving this year. This is a first with my husband's family and I am going to have a hard time competing with past Thanksgivings.

The menu includes a fresh turkey, Grandma's stuffing, Ree's mashed potatoes, Paula's mashed sweet potatoes, the classic green bean casserole, glazed baby carrots, rolls (frozen dough), homemade chocolate cream pie and pumpkin pie using this crust recipe. I like that most of these can be prepared ahead of time.

What tried and true recipes do you use for Thanksgiving?

Turkeys and Trees

2011-11-21T09:53:00.001-05:00

Amidst the business of the approaching holiday we took a time out to make hand print turkeys! They are displayed in the kitchen and I love looking at my kids' creations. Luke's turkey is more of an abstract interpretation. These are keepers!

There has been a lot of talk about the turkey, but we have also taken time to be thankful.

I saw this on Pinterest and loved the idea.

Source: flickr.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Here is our version.

Visual Project List {Part 4}

2011-11-17T21:02:00.001-05:00

This is the last project on my Visual Project List. I originally thought that I would accomplish all of this before 2011 came to a close, but that is not going to happen.

These lists will make it on the 2012 goals. I have a powder room on the first floor that is still sporting the original owner's colors and it is one of my least favorite spaces. I can not wait to transform this room! I have a lot of ideas, but I am not sure which ones will make the final cut. I am debating between stenciled walls or board and batten, the paint color I am thinking a hue of blue. The cabinets will be the same color as the kitchen (java, black, espresso, along those lines) and we will frame the mirror to match. New brushed nickel hardware and this "powder room" will not be the ugly step child of the house.

Sources

Here are some before shots of the bathroom. These are sooc because I do not think any editing can make Barney purple walls look better. The cabinet doors were removed months ago. My husband primed them as a tester for the kitchen and I am left with an "open concept" cabinet.

Dieting Revisited

2011-11-15T12:27:00.001-05:00

Source: therunnerguy.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Oh, boy.

Have I not posted about this before? I have come to a low point, or rather a high point. The Halloween candy did me in. There are few contributing factors to my weight gain or lack of weight loss.

1. I eat two dinners a night. One with the kids and one with Matt, who picked up a second job and is gone almost daily until 8:30-9:30 each evening.

2. I do not exercise.

3. I graze on bad foods throughout the day.

4. If I am having a bad day I gorge on high calorie beverages (Dr. P or Coke)

Source: tanandtoned.tumblr.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Here is my game plan:

1. Keep a food diary. I am using Fit Day.

2. Exercise every day...even when I do not feel like it.

I definitely have the time. I waste a lot of time on the computer and I do not just want to lose weight, I want to transform. I can not believe how much fat I can grab!

Source: doitthehealthyway.tumblr.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Rather than jump on the January 1st bandwagon I am joining now. I know the holidays are approaching, but I can not think of a better time to start a lifestyle change.

The Cousins

2011-11-14T10:22:00.001-05:00

This past weekend my sister, her husband, and three kids came to visit. We had a lot of fun and Luke is still asking why they are not here. With the help of my brother Michael I set my camera on a tripod and used the timer feature (my first time) and made a "photo booth". These kids are CRAZY!!!

This free picture slideshow customized with Smilebox

Here are some shots I took before church. This may be the first time we captured all six of them together. All blondies except for Luke.

Visual Project List {Part 3}

2011-11-11T17:29:00.001-05:00

Adding to my visual project list. We have a laundry room off the kitchen that leads to the garage. We always park in the garage so this is our "entry". Next year I will have two kids in school and the following year three. My goal is to not only paint this drab room, but add functional storage for everyday outerwear, book bags, and school papers. I am not sure what color. I was originally thinking gray or yellow. The gray may be too dark for this small space. We will also paint all the doors and trim our brighter trim color. That will help lighten up the space too. I purchased the rug a few months ago and I love it because it is easier to vacuum than to clean the vinyl floor underneath.

Here are some ideas that I would like to incorporate into this space.

Source: thesweetsurvival.blogspot.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Source: containerstore.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Source: housetweaking.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Source: applevalleygirl.blogspot.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

First Snow

2011-11-11T17:23:00.001-05:00

We had our first dusting of snow yesterday and the kids insisted on chasing the quickly melting snowflakes. I was able to snap a few pictures. You can not even see the snow! I was a tad disappointed as I wore sandals last week. I guess it is time to accept that colder weather is ahead.

Do Everything

2011-11-10T12:52:00.001-05:00

Usually the kids pick what we will be listening to in the car, but when I am kid-less I choose K-Love. I do feel uplifted when I listen and sometimes it is just what I need to get my morning started. Lately I have been hearing Steven Curtis Chapman's "Do Everything" and I love this song! It really spoke to me.

As you do everything you do to the glory of the One who made you,

Cause he made you

To do

Every little thing that you do

To bring a smile to His face

And tell the story of grace

Sewing for the Kids

2011-11-07T12:41:00.001-05:00

I had a busy week sewing for the kids. Matching aprons for Madeline and Addie have been on my to do list and Wyatt, who is obsessed with Indiana Jones requested a messenger bag.

I found this great tutorial on Pinterest for the messenger bag.

Source: zaaberry.blogspot.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

This tutorial is easy to follow and "Indy" had his bag in less than an hour. I should have made the straps longer as Wyatt is bigger so the bag would hang down lower. It could be mistaken as a purse or a "man bag" if you are Joey. Am I showing my age?

The recent obsession with Indiana Jones began with the completion of an Indiana Jones Lego set a few weeks ago and Daddy and Wyatt playing Lego Indiana Jones every available chance. I found a hat (adult size) at Meijer for $2.50 after Halloween and made the whip out of brown knit fabric (although it still stings a little- ask Luke).

I Survived Halloween 2011

2011-11-01T11:02:00.002-04:00

We had a lot of fun last night! I think the kids are having a candy hangover this morning... I am saying a prayer for all the teachers today.
Here are some pictures of our night. Enjoy!

The Food

Even the dolls dressed up

McMummy

Two Little Indians

The gang is all here

Halloween Preview

2011-10-29T19:57:00.000-04:00

The kids dressed in their costumes today for a party at the library. This year costumes were easy on the wallet because the pirate costume is hand me down, Madeline picked out the Native American costume last year on clearance after Halloween, and we picked Wyatt's up on sale this year. He has grown so much since last year that his older costumes are too small.

Wyatt wore this pirate costume in 2008. I almost don't remember him that small!

Visual Project List {Part 2}

2011-10-29T10:08:00.000-04:00

Here is part two of my visual project list. I still have not started part one... after Halloween is the plan... I hope. Here are some kitchens that inspired me. We currently have white appliances and light counter tops and those are staying for the time being, but stainless is on the wish list. I am struggling to find the right "java" paint. I do not want black, black, nor do I want brown. I want a Jacobean color in a paint rather than stain.

Source: google.ca via Stephanie on Pinterest

Source: favoritepaintcolors.blogspot.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Sweet and Sour Chicken

2011-10-27T13:25:00.000-04:00

Source: tasteofhome.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

I picked up a Taste of Home cookbook at the library and tried this recipe. It was really good and very easy to make. I omitted the onion, but did add some onion powder. I also used skinless chicken breast cubed instead of popcorn chicken. Serve with steamed rice and dinner is done!

I Spy Yellow

2011-10-25T21:45:00.003-04:00

Over the weekend I added some touches of yellow in the master bedroom. I have always been fond of the rolled flowers that I have seen out in blogland and decided it was time to try them. I burned a few fingers with the glue gun, but well worth it!

I found a cheap $3.50 wood frame at Meijer to hold my poster print, but the black was not going to work so I decided to call on my Rub N Buff hero again. I am pleased with the results and will add to this mini gallery wall in time.

Halloween Party Inspiration

2011-10-23T09:02:00.000-04:00

This is the first year that we will trick or treat in our own neighborhood. In the past we always did it at the Ball's so this is new territory for me! Awhile back I was flipping through the PBK catalog and saw this cute banner. I made my own using scrapbook paper and a little ribbon.

There are a lot of cute food ideas on Pinterest and these were my favorite that made the menu.

Source: purejoyeventsblog.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Source: bhg.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Source: sixsistersstuff.blogspot.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Source: tasteofhome.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Source: kidsparties123.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Source: cookesfrontier.blogspot.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Source: the-girl-who-ate-everything.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Two Great Photo Deals

2011-10-21T08:56:00.002-04:00

I love a good photo deal, especially before Christmas. Walgreens has two coupon codes that are available until October 22nd that I took advantage of. The first one is an 8x10 photo collage for FREE. I made one with our pictures from the farm trip and printed this for my dad as a Christmas gift. The second deal is an 11x14 poster for $1.99. Mine was $2.15 after tax with free in store pick up, but what a deal! I found this great free print for my bedroom and had it printed on matte paper.

Source: eighteen25.blogspot.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Hurry and get your great deals before they expire!

Let's Talk about Trash

2011-10-20T09:12:00.001-04:00

Older picture of the kitchen. Updated here.

Here is where my trash can has been since we moved it- on the side of the island. A functional spot, but not pretty to look at. I thought a stainless steel simplehuman would be nice, but was flabbergasted at the prices! While browsing Pinterest I spotted this:

Source: bhg.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

I have a corner cabinet with a lazy susan that is under used. It houses my mixing bowls and colanders and those were moved into an adjacent cabinet. I googled instructions to remove the top shelf of the lazy susan leaving just the bottom one. It took two trips to the store to purchase trash bins that would fit, but I am very pleased with the results!

The Corner Cabinet

The recycle bin is the one with the blue tape.
A different color can would have been better, but white was only available.

We are saving our pop tabs for the Ronald McDonald house.
I also used grip liner to keep the cans in place.

During a big clean up I rotate the appropriate can for ease of domestic duties.

The new set up is more efficient. The recycle bin used to be in the pantry. It makes more sense to be near the trash. The total cost of this project was $8.50 for the new trash cans. Not too shabby.

Mini Mummy

2011-10-18T09:32:00.003-04:00

Back in July I showed you the Hello Kitty mummy outfits. Well, I promised the girls matching doll outfits and it only took me two and a half months! I used the Liberty Jane shirt pattern as I did here and I made my own skirt pattern. It took a couple of tries to get it just right.

If you are interested in the girl skirt I have it available in my shop sizes 12M-10 and blog readers receive 20% off by using the coupon code hoosiermummy.

Down on Kelsay Farms

2011-10-15T11:35:00.000-04:00

The lovely ladies of Two Maids a Milking invited my family to be guests at the family farm, Kelsay Farms here in Whiteland, In. We went last night and it was the most fall fun that I have had in a loooong time! There was so much to do and the kids did not want to leave. The kids favorites were the "corn crib" and the straw bale mountain. If these two things were in our backyard I would never have to buy a toy again. Ever. Matt and I enjoyed the five acre corn maze in the dark. Walking through the corn was a little spooky (we had flashlights) and the kids were a little scared... ok, Luke and Madeline were sobbing so I had to hightail it out of there pulling them in a little red wagon (complimentary) with heeled boots (these were inappropriate footwear by the way). If you are interested in visiting the farm their website has info on discounted tickets and the FB page has had links to discounts in the past too.

Madeline loved finding the corn and decided that they would be souveniers!

Moo Choo Express

Wyatt the dairy farmer

Wyatt's new "pose"... nice

Daddy and Luke

Pumpkin bowling. That is a real bowling ball... no wonder Luke could not pick it up!

21 day old calf. I want one!

The corn crib

Daddy's girl

Beautiful sunset!

This is where I found Luke when I ran upstairs to get his pjs. The farm wore him out!

Visual Project List {Part 1}

2011-10-13T09:35:00.000-04:00

I was inspired by Allison of House of Hepworths to create a project to do list. Allison has been rapidly crossing stuff off her list and that motivated me to do the same!

Here is my visual to do list.

All of these projects only require three things: Valspar's Betsy Linen paint, a brush, and time. What I really want to work on is my kitchen cabinets, powder room, and laundry room, but I have to get the boring stuff finished first. I will post the rest of my project list tomorrow because I know you are dying to see!

Checking out the New Exhibits at TCM

2011-10-10T12:05:00.001-04:00

We love our Children's Museum and always try to attend the Target Free Nights which are the first Thursday of each month from 4-8. Two new exhibits are Frogs, and National Geographic Treasure of the Earth. We went with some good friends and had a great time!

Wyatt and Isaiah as Terra Cotta Warriors

Ribbet

Luke taking his role as a warrior very serious!

The biggest Bullfrog I have ever seen!

Falling for Donuts

2011-10-08T14:52:00.002-04:00

{source}

This morning the family got dressed and headed to Dunkin Donuts for a morning treat. I had the Caramel Apple Donut and it was amazing!!! The pumpkin donut was good too and along with a raspberry iced coffee, that is my kind of Saturday morning! Here are some recipies that I want to try at home.

Pumpkin Donuts

Source: blueeyedbakers.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Apple Cider Donuts

Source: homemadesimple.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

After breakfast we ran into Toys R Us to purchase The Lion King for only $14.99. This was the first movie Matt and I ever went to together. Hard to believe that we have been watching movies together for the past seventeen years. While at TRU Wyatt picked out his Halloween costume. This year he will be Jango Fett and the first thing he did when we got home was put on his costume. I have a feeling I will be seeing him look like this for the next three weeks!

Schedule House Cleaning?

2011-10-04T11:45:00.000-04:00

I do all right with the day to day cleaning and keeping things picked up, but it is the deep cleaning that gets my mop in a knot. This house is big and last time I deep cleaned it took me two weeks working one room at a time. One of my fav blogs is Clover Lane and I noticed that she had a cleaning schedule. How smart is that?

Clover Lane's Cleaning Schedule

Source: memoriesoncloverlane.blogspot.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Instead of taking 14 days to deep clean I am going to take 14 weeks. I posted my schedule by the command center. I will make modifications when needed and highlight when the task is finished.

This week is the Master Bedroom, so I better get started!

A Winner, Napper, and a Mr. and Mrs.

2011-10-02T08:54:00.000-04:00

What a crazy title, right?! Well, you will understand by the end of this post. I bought a Monopoly game for $5 last week and we decided to break it out and play. It took three nights and several hours to finish one game, but it was fun and Wyatt was the big winner. By the end of the game he had all the money and properties. He owned all the railroads and I promise I hit them at least twice each loop. Forget Boardwalk, get the railroads!

The Napper

Here is a picture of my sweet baby. We could not get him to wake up! Of course it was after 5 and he was up until 11!

Mr. and Mrs.

A lot of Mr. & Mrs. love out there on Pinterest and I thought that is just what I need as a filler for my frames in the master bedroom. I like the girly font and the "manly" font. I had some dollar store photo paper and with PSE I had these in my frames in less than 10 minutes!

I printed them on 8.5X11 paper and cut to size. Here are the images if you are interested.

Mr. and Mrs. downloads.

Praying for Will

2011-09-30T11:52:00.004-04:00

Source: faithinourlord.tumblr.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

I know that this blog is usually about decor, craft, family stuff, but my heart has been heavy with the sad news about a fellow first grader at Wyatt's school. His name is Will and he was seriously injured in a fall that could have happened to one of my children in my home. I believe that prayer works and I will admit that my prayer time has been minimal if not non existent, but I feel the need to keep this boy in my prayers. I hope that anyone who reads this post will also pray for Will.
Here is his CaringBridge site.

Oliver +S Doll Carrier

2011-09-29T09:38:00.001-04:00

A few months ago at the library I checked out this oliver + s book.

Many cute patterns, but the one that caught Madeline's eye was the doll carrier.

source

I like the pattern because it is fairly easy to follow and the carrier is adjustable so Madeline can carry a variety of "friends". This project was free because I used scrap fabrics and I had traced the pattern and scanned the instructions. The only modification that I did to the pattern was add buttons as opposed to Velcro. If you are looking for a doll carrier this one is a winner in our book!

Mmmm Fall Baking

2011-09-26T09:49:00.002-04:00

I saw this recipe on Oopsey Daisy and I love anything with pumpkin and chocolate is a bonus!

Source: oopseydaisyblog.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

I do not like making muffins because it takes too long so I used a bundt pan. I substituted applesauce for the oil as suggested in the recipe and I thought that it tasted delicious!

Saturday Mornings

2011-09-24T10:12:00.000-04:00

I love Saturdays! Last year they were not appreciated as much as they are now that Wyatt is in school full time. I love the laziness and sleeping in. I do not clean or grocery shop on Saturdays. This is a day for playing, reading, and fun projects. Madeline has been dying for me to make a baby doll carrier and I think that is what we are going to do as soon as I finish my hot chocolate! This morning we made blueberry waffles. My kids do not like the blueberries whole so I use my Ninja and a little apple juice to blend them before adding to the batter. I was wondering if this method would work for strawberry waffles? I guess I can try and see!

Walking Tour

2011-09-21T09:51:00.001-04:00

Yesterday we took a walk around our neighborhood and I brought along my 70-300 lens for fun.

Here are a few of my favorite things...

LOVE this wood door on my neighbors' house. It also has an interesting story.

The crooked picture was bothering me so I used the straighten too in Picnik. Love that tool!

This garage door is from the same house. They just installed it last week and I love the carriage accents!

Luke is a mean riding machine.

I chose this picture because I love the blur of the leaves and the look on his face.

Madeline smiling, which is so much better than whining. Her new hobby.

Gorgeous petunias.

Awesome barn that backs up to our division.

Edgy, Madeline's Webkinz and testing out different wb settings.

More "testing" with sooc shots.

Not really sure how I feel about the wb settings. Is there where a custom balance may work better?

Have a great Wednesday everyone!

Photo Book Gift

2011-09-20T12:07:00.000-04:00

A few weeks ago I completed my 2010 photo book from Shutterfly and received it in the mail. I love our photo books and found a place in the family room to store them for easy access. When Shutterfly sent me a free 8x8 book code I thought making Matt's parents a book would be a good idea for Christmas. Here is the book I created for them and I only paid the cost of shipping woohoo!

Click here to view this photo book larger

Glam Gourds

2011-09-19T09:50:00.000-04:00

Every fall I pick up a back o' gourds at the grocery store. I love the fall colors and imperfections. The kids love the warty ones. One thing I knew I wanted to try was Rub n Buff. I love that stuff and a little goes a looong way and it only takes a minute or two to make a transformation!

Pioneer Woman Actions

2011-09-14T14:32:00.000-04:00

I finally downloaded the Pioneer Woman actions for Photoshop Elements using the uber helpful Texas Chicks video. I decided to try my hand at some of the actions. All before shots are straight out of the camera (sooc). I can't really say that I have a favorite because I like them all!

Before

Boost

Softness

Before

Lovely

Soft & Faded

It's Beginning to Look Like Fall

2011-09-13T10:11:00.001-04:00

Although it is still in the 80's here in Indiana I am itching for FALL! I could not wait to get some fall decor up and here is what we have so far. I am waiting to hit the pumpkin patch for mini pumpkins and gourds. I found the fall printable here and printed it on houndstooth scrapbook paper.

I Learned Something New {Camera SD card}

2011-09-12T11:26:00.001-04:00

When I purchased my Canon Rebel XS back in December 2009 I just grabbed the first SD card I saw because I was so EXCITED about using my new camera! Last week the card was not working- a bit of the plastic broke off and I did not have a back up. I know that photographers carry several SD cards, but I download almost daily so I have not seen the point of two, until now. I ordered a new card on Amazon and have not had a camera since the 6th. I am having withdrawals. Even my the camera on my phone is broken! I called my techie brother who suggested this SD card:

The difference between my card and the suggested card was the "class" the class is the transfer speed. If I had read my camera manual I would have found out that I was supposed to have a class 6 or higher. I was using a class 2. The higher class cards are helpful in the areas of burst mode, action shots, and low light situations and I am prone to all of those. I am anticipating my delivery and I will let you know if I notice a difference.

Remembering

2011-09-11T18:11:00.000-04:00

I went to NY back in 1997. It was my sister and best friend LaNae's senior trip and I was able to tag along. It was a blast! We did all the tourist things and shopped, and shopped. This is a crummy picture of the towers. I am glad that I have this picture and that we had the opportunity to take the long scary elevator to the observation deck. Ten years ago I was getting my first grade classroom ready for the day. It was my first year teaching. I was single and living with a friend and my whole life ahead of me. Ten years later I am married to my high school sweetheart with three kiddos, a mini van and a house. I am so thankful to be an American and to live with the wonderful people who picked up the pieces of this disaster and managed to carry on. Thank you America!

Home Wrecker

2011-09-09T18:00:00.001-04:00

Wyatt came home with this paper today. It looks to me like it says, "My mom is a home wrecker". I read this aloud and Wyatt said in his annoyed voice, "homemaker". Now I know for a fact that his teacher told him to write this when he said, "My mom does not have a job". Ha! Are you crazy?!?! Also I despise the label of homemaker, housewife, domestic dive, etc How about mom and wife. Why is stay at home mom not the norm and I feel that I have to interject that I do have a college degree and I did have a "real" job, but I am putting things on hold to be a..... homemaker?

Moving on, I do think that it is funny that his illustration shows me doing laundry and Wyatt sitting on the couch watching tv. At least it is accurate. Matt's illustration is cute too. Matt works at Lowes and he is wearing the red vest taking money from a customer with a shopping cart. I do not know where daddy's pants are. I hope he wears them at work.

Home School Snap Shots

2011-09-08T10:45:00.000-04:00

This is week three of our "home school" and it has been going great. We are working on letter recognition, letter sounds, pre reading skills, and writing our name correctly. Right now we are spending an hour a day and Madeline is asking to do her work. She call me "teacher, which I think is a little funny.

Color sort using my sewing buttons.

Create your own handwriting worksheet with this website.

Remembering the "Judge" and other Random Thoughts

2011-09-07T10:14:00.000-04:00

It has been a long week. I know it is only Wednesday. My grandfather passed away last Thursday and we went to the memorial service last night. He was a great man who was loved by many and will be missed. September 11th is fast approaching and I just want to remember to take the time to love and cherish my family and friends because life can be so short. At the old casa I had a wall vinyl that said, "Cherish Life's Wonderful Moments". I wish that I had one here that just said "Cherish Life's Moments" as a daily reminder. Today I am cherishing my sweet Wyatt and his Rocker hair do. He got a haircut Sunday, but the 'hawk was fun for awhile.

Someone was Baking!

2011-09-05T11:26:00.001-04:00

Hoop skirts were flying in the kitchen this weekend. Mine to be specific. The family drove up from Alabama and I thought that I would try my hand at a few recipes that had caught my eye on Pinterest. I am still in love with Pinterest. Here is my page if you would like to follow and I would love to follow you too!

Cake Pop recipe that looked too good to pass up! These things are TDF in the words of my step-mother! I ate too many. We eliminated the stick making these balls as opposed to pops.

Source: tatteredtulips.blogspot.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Here are mine

Another recipe that was yummy and perfect for Sunday breakfast was this Cinnamon Pull Apart Bread.

Source: joythebaker.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Here is mine

I have also been having fun with Picnik. If you have not checked out this photo editing site, you need too! I am thinking that a premium account would be a perfect Christmas gift for others (I mean myself...)

New Fall Skirts

2011-09-04T20:07:00.000-04:00

Just added these cute fall editions to my etsy shop! Most are available in sizes 12M-6. All orders ship within one day and will be perfect for the approaching cooler weather (we hope).

We Have Electricity People

2011-08-31T09:56:00.001-04:00

I have a two story entry with a plant shelf that annoys me. The boys throw balls up there and it is a final resting spot for flies. Last Christmas I wanted to put pre lit decorations, but there was not an outlet. My sweet diy husband put an outlet in yesterday and it cost less than $10.

New Outlet

I am always on the lookout for something interesting and more colorful for this shelf. I am over ivy topiaries, but do not want an empty space.

We replaced the light fixture last year. This was the before:

The hanging "boob"

Help a girl out! If this were your shelf what would you put there?

Sixty-one Degrees

2011-08-30T09:35:00.000-04:00

That is the current temperature. Wyatt called it "cold" and I did turn on the car heater. I LOVE fall, but I am not completely ready for cooler temps, but I am ready for some fall decor. I am going to hold out until after labor day though. Here are some decorating inspirations that I have gathered from Pinterest:

Monogrammed Pumpkins

Source: poppiesandsunshine.blogspot.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Filled Apothecary Jars

Source: lilluna.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Festive Entry

Source: midwestliving.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Ric Rac Pumpkins

Source: centsationalgirl.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

My favorite- Rub N Buff Pumpkins

Source: centsationalgirl.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

The DVR is Set to Record!

2011-08-27T08:41:00.000-04:00

Source: thepioneerwoman.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

The Pioneer Woman's cooking show begins today! I am so excited! I rarely watch cooking shows, but knowing her background from reading the book has piqued my interest. I was lazy this summer about menu planning, but I am back on the wagon and noticed that I spent less money and time at the grocery store when I have a plan. Last week I impressed my husband with BBQ ribs one night and bacon wrapped chicken with mashed ranch potatoes another.

Source: reviewretreat.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

We also made homemade fries inspired by Wing Stop. If you have never had their fries you MUST! The secret ingredient is sugar, yum!

A Little of This and a Little of That

2011-08-26T10:35:00.000-04:00

I am loving my new rooms, but I thought that my sewing table pulls could use a little Rub N Buff. What do you think? My husband did not even notice until I pointed it out.

BEFORE

AFTER

Remember this photo shoot? I printed off my favorites and added them to the gallery wall. This is what the wall looked like before:

And after:

This wall will be easy to switch out pictures in the future because most of the frames can accommodate either a 5x7 or 8x10.

My sweet daughter made me a flower bouquet out of Kinex. She is our crafty creative girl. I wonder where she gets that from?

Fancy Dinner

2011-08-25T08:07:00.000-04:00

The other night I decided to serve the kids a "fancy" candlelit dinner. Cheese ravioli was the main course with some french bread. I never know what vegetable to fix with pasta ( I love spinach, but I am the only one) other than salad and we were out so lucky for them, none. Their favorite part of the meal was drinking milk from stemware. I pretended that I was the server and they were polite customers. Tips were kisses and hugs. I think that we will need to have fancy dinners more often!

Green Paint Part 2

2011-08-24T08:14:00.002-04:00

Yea!!! We are finished with this room! I love the new look and I wish that my pictures weren't so crummy! I was inspired by Thrifty Decor Chick's side panel curtains and was thrilled when I found side panel rods at Lowe's and made my own 95" panels with the Ikat fabric.

LaNae thought that the columns would look cool if we painted them our trim color on top and I agree!!! I love the "chunky" look and plan on painting the dining room columns to match. I think that it makes them less formal.

Family rules art found at Hobby Lobby for only $24.99.

Replaced dark brown slipcover with this lighter version and love how it lightens the space. I also replaced the totes on the console. I repurpose the others in the boys' closets.

Here is a view of both spaces.

And in case you forgot the dreaded brown...

Kitchen Gone Green

2011-08-22T10:54:00.000-04:00

The kitchen paint job is finished! The green is bright and cheery and will be a beautiful backdrop for our soon to be painted java cabinets. I am also keeping an eye out for a drum shade pendant that will go above the sink.

And in case you did not remember the before:

Before

After

Before

After

Tomorrow I will show you the family room!

Tea Party Time

2011-08-20T22:37:00.001-04:00

It all started with the concept of a tea party that both girls and boys would enjoy since Madeline has more boy friends than girls. I found some free images online and created our own invitation.

Earlier that morning Madeline received her first American Girl doll and they are inseparable.

Posing in their matching outfits

Madeline has named all of her dolls and this one is "Addie"

Paper bunting

Tea Party

The kids decorated their own tea "mug"

Matching party hats for the both the guest and their "friend"

Luke and Mickey

Ethan and Lucas are the sweetest boys ever! Lucas tells everyone that Madeline is his girlfriend!

Mini Desserts courtesy of Sam's Club.

Wyatt, Isaiah, and Nathan. Someone was too interested in his dessert to smile...

Photo timeline banner

Evie stacked the most sugar cubes. No one said that you could not have more than one stack!

Madeline working hard on hers!

Madeline blowing out the candle. She is a tad dramatic (gets it from her mom)

The party was a lot of fun and we all had a great time hanging out with our friends and family. Madeline talked of nothing else today so in my eyes the party was a success!

It's A Bug's Life

2011-08-18T12:49:00.000-04:00

My only girl loves digging in the dirt looking for bugs. Monday she found a caterpillar and today a cricket. Madeline keeps her friend for a little while before she releases it back to the wild (our backyard). It is fun to see how excited she gets!

A Little Bit of Chevron in My Life

2011-08-17T15:08:00.000-04:00

You have to sing that in the tune of Mambo No. 5 by the way. Here is a little sneak of our kitchen/family room redo. Last week I hated the green, but I am in LOVE now! I saw this fabulous chevron a month or two ago and knew it would compliment our color scheme. I made curtain panels out of the coordinating Ikat. Are you dying to see them? I am too! They are waiting for rods to be installed. Here are links to the fabric:

Source: fabric.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

A B C and 1 2 3 {Homeschooling}

2011-08-16T09:33:00.000-04:00

Madeline will be the big five this Friday, which means she missed the kindergarten cut off. I have decided to "homeschool" her this year. This week we are taking it easy as we are all adjusting to Wyatt being a full time first grader. I am assessing what letters she knows and reviewing shapes and color. Luke is fine tuning his drawing skills. Check out those grumpy faces! He is rocking these "hot stepper" boots courtesy of Evie. We will work on left foot, right foot later.

First Day of First Grade

2011-08-10T11:16:00.000-04:00

Waiting in the carpool line

Very long carpool line due to lack of free bus service

Something New

2011-08-09T09:18:00.000-04:00

We painted the family room. It is green. Really, really green. It is bright. Really, really bright. I am getting used to it. I had a nightmare last night about it, but we are rolling with it. It is not that we do not like it, but it is a little brighter than we thought and it is a big change from the poopy brown. I know that tan would have been safe and I love safe, but we wanted to try something new because we have been neutral for 9 years. Here is a sneak of the new look.

BEFORE

AFTER

Winner Winner Chicken Dinner!

2011-08-08T08:51:00.000-04:00

Happy Monday Morning! The kids and I are getting ready to hit the Indiana State Fair this morning courtesy of the Indiana Soy Bean Alliance.

I did pick a winner using random.org and the winner is BETH!

Thank you all that participated and if you did not win the fair has $2 admission Tuesdays and a lot of the food vendors have $2 food items too!

Indiana State Fair Ticket Giveaway

2011-08-06T09:16:00.002-04:00

It is that time of year again! Fair time! I love checking out all the animals and seeing what weird concoction they are frying this year. The Indiana Family of Farmers has given me two tickets good for any day at the Indiana State Fair! All you need to do to enter the giveaway is

1. Like IFOF on Facebook

2. Leave a comment here on the blog with your name and email so I can contact the winner!

This giveaway will end Sunday night at midnight and the winner will posted Monday morning!

Painting Decisions and Yoshi

2011-08-06T09:02:00.000-04:00

After many days and nights we decided on Behr's Grass Cloth for the kitchen and family room. It is a tad brighter or maybe darker than I wanted, but I think it is the best that we could find. Of course the pictures are not showing the true color, which is more green in person. It is a moody color and looks different depending on what light is on, or how much natural light is available. This is a HUGE risk for me because my inner self is Colony Sand, but I am ready to try something new. That darker swatch is a possible cabinet color. We are wanting to go the espresso/java route.

Matt has been working on the trim- what a pain. The door and ceilings are next, then primer and paint. My house is torn up and the OCD side of me is cracking, but I am trying my best to hold it together. He has been furiously working when the kids are in bed because that is the best time around here. Last night when I came downstairs after the bedtime song and dance this is what greeted me.

Some evil mushroom guy from Mario

Yoshi

I guess Matt needed a little break from the trim. Wyatt loved the little surprise this morning!

Baby Love

2011-08-04T09:17:00.001-04:00

Bethany and Addi
source

A dear friend of mine is having her first baby girl this month!!! What is even more exciting is her best friend is also having a baby girl soon after. I decided these life long friends needed coordinating outfits for their daughters! Both babies names begin with L, but I will not reveal their beautiful names!

Simple Sweet Peasant Dresses and Monogrammed Bibs

Polka Dot

Zebra

Burp cloths for Addi

The Elephant in the Room

2011-08-03T10:18:00.000-04:00

For some reason we are bypassing my to do list to paint the kitchen and family room which open into each other. Here is our floor plan so you can see.

We decided on a green color because it will complement our furniture and I loved the green in my friend LaNae's home. I do not think she minds because she switched over to a beautiful blue.

Source: tatteredtulips.blogspot.com via Stephanie on Pinterest

Picking the right shade of green has been so difficult and I still do not know if we have the right one! We have been to Sherwin Williams, Lowes, Ace, and Home Depot. The first sample, Leaf Bud by Valspar was too neon. The next one we tried was Willow by Valpsar and it was too minty.

Willow

Added samples are the bottom two. Behr Corn Husk Green and Grass Cloth. The darker one is Grass Cloth and I like it, but it is a tad dark and the Corn Husk is a little too yellow and bright. I have debated this for days and I think that the Grass Cloth would be perfect if I have the strength reduced.

I will admit that I am so scared to paint, but the indecision and green zebra walls are killing me! Here is a picture of the column and a little on the family room wall. Wish me good luck!

Cooking Challenge

2011-08-01T09:30:00.000-04:00

I am not going to mince words: I am a bad cook. I do not love cooking, but I have come to realize that I can continue to make the same six meals the rest of our lives. I am currently reading The Pioneer Woman Love Story and it is sweet. I also got her cookbook at the library and I love the simplicity of the recipes and the gazillion pictures! I think I may have to buy this one, but I do have it for three weeks and I decided that I am going to half to try as many recipes as I can channeling Julie/Julia Project!

On August 27th the Pioneer Woman will have her own Food Network Show. I am really curious about that and will definitely be recording!

Here are some of the ingredients that are commonly used in the book that I do not consistently have in the kitchen:

kosher salt
active dry yeast
bacon
garlic clove
onion
cocoa powder
half n half
heavy cream

I also do not own a pastry cutter, rolling pin (that is a running joke my house because it went missing one day and has never been found), and a biscuit cutter.

I guess I have some shopping to do!

Hoosier Mummy?

2011-07-31T08:46:00.000-04:00

I am still LOL at my title because I am a dork like that! I live in Indiana, get it?! I know that the kids are not in school yet, but I am showing you Halloween. It is that time of year in the custom boutique world. Thanksgiving is next and Christmas before you know it!

I made this Hello Kitty Mummy patchwork skirt with comfy knit waist to match Tattered Tulip's applique tee. The skirt is available in sizes 12M-10 starting at $19.00, which includes shipping! All of the info is here on the DillyDally District Facebook page.

If you are not a fan of room*6 on FB here is the page so you can join!