Honey Hazel

Enjoying the Night Air

2012-01-27T19:03:00.000-05:00

Coco ♥ Holly

2012-01-26T09:12:00.000-05:00

MIL has some CUTE frickin' doggies! Just makes my morning looking at their faces!

Just Me Popping in to tell You, You're Fabulous

2012-01-24T16:08:00.000-05:00

One of the greatest things about life is growth. I've discovered a time to renew, to gain me again and I can't tell you how beautiful it feels. I haven't been around much. I'm not apologizing. I'm surely missing you but at the same time, I am taking time to do me. Shine on pretty people.

BTW: the hair is growing;-)

Pretty Deer

2012-01-18T08:08:00.000-05:00

Bryan's parents live in upstate New York. Their back yard is always filled with the most beautiful birds and animals. The deer pop their noses in often. They're not afraid to get close either. One of the things I love about up north is that pretty white stuff. We haven't seen in years. And of course we miss the hell out of our families. xo

i ♥ you

2012-01-15T15:36:00.000-05:00

thank you for being the best friends ever! i truly do love you

collage created by M

Carambola aka StarFruit

2012-01-13T14:01:00.001-05:00

Grapes are my fresh loving snack but Bryan has a guy at work who gave him these yellowish weird apple type fruits called StarFruit. Real name is Carambola but it's known as the StarFruit which is sitting there next to my grapes. I just thought they were the sweetest, most sourest tasting fruit combined. They are a good snack, hard to find. They are grown here in FL but still not common. Carambola is rich in antioxidants and vitamin C and low in sugar, sodium, and acid. I guess really healthy for you. I just thought they were neat sitting on our counter!

The Morning Sky

2012-01-13T11:53:00.000-05:00

The mornings here in sw fl are absolutely my fave. No matter what kind of morning i'm having, i hop into the car and gaze at the morning sky. It makes my day, my life more meaningful! There is nothing more intriguing. it just soothes my soul. i love this creation, this life, this beautiful sky i get to wake up to each morning and talk to!

Vintage ♥

2012-01-12T16:43:00.000-05:00

source||actual link

I'm currently craving vintage!!!

source||actual link

Someone at Bryan's work gave him this Vintage Soap. I'm sorry, did i miss something? Does he need to bathe more!

anywho...i'm collecting lots of vintage. so far i have this soap and a betty crocker recipe book....and some rubbish type decor. i'm doing well, eh? i wish we had a shop here because the only thing close to vintage is 40 miles away-bums!

where are your favorite vintage shops on the web

Creating Facebook Timelines

2012-01-11T16:14:00.000-05:00

My most prettyful friend Victoria recently talked about using FB timeline to your advantage! And I started playing on Photoshop to create a little piece of cuteness for Honey Hazel.

I was instantly attracted to it and encourage y'all to do the same! a super playful way to introduce your friends to your blogs, twitter, etc! I think i like it so much, I'll create a new one often!

You can follow me personally Here! I post daily photos, some things about work and you know...everyday life!

Would you like me to create your fb timeline? I'd be happy to for a low $5! Victoria's designs are way better though...I'm sure she'll work something out as well! Enjoy.

5 things

2012-01-09T08:41:00.000-05:00

1.) I was searching for the Juicy Couture Perfume set that M wanted for Christmas and couldn't find it anywhere. It's actually a three piece set that Bryan found for her on Christmas Eve and I just sneak a spray when I get sick of mine! Shhh...don't tell her!

2.) This pretty lady and mama to 3 gorgeous men sent me this beautiful necklace that says Mackenzie, Hannah and Mom on it! Quite possibly the best gift I've ever received. Thank you friend.

3.) Morning Dew. I had rushed out of the house the other morning when M called crying that I forgot her note to go home with her friend and so I took my coffee mug and headed to the school to make her happy! Good thing i have a car now!

4.) The ice cream at work is de-O! They make my Chocolate Peppermint Frappé with the vanilla. Yum.

5.) I like to color!

How to Have a Good Morning

2012-01-08T09:47:00.000-05:00

The mornings with Grams was wonderful. We'd sit and have coffee, chat and the only thing that was wrong with me was the decaf. I was falling back to sleep before I finished my cup. Remember I couldn't find the Single Packets here when we returned to FL. Well.....Hhccccchum! We finally started getting them at our local grocer and I was in heaven. Simply because I am the only one drinking and they are so EASY and FAST to make!

Good Mornings = Coffee, Loads of Sug, Coffee Mate Creamer and a Pretty Mug

But Having a Good Morning also means waking up to your beautiful family, having another day with them, embracing the wee little moments like putting crayola doh in your cupcake pans, painting a picture and hearing the word, "Mommy" over and over again.

What I Love♥

2012-01-07T20:10:00.001-05:00

Myself!

How to Get a Guy to Love you & Stay in Love with You

2012-01-06T11:49:00.000-05:00

Um, so yeah!---I'm definitely not searching for a man....In fact, I've been with the same one for 14 years, if that says anything about me knowing how to get a guy to like you, fall in love with you and STAY in love with you!

{pic courtesy of M's iPhone}

When i was younger i was so shy that i put this huge guard up and looked at myself in a totally different way than i do now. I seen all my flaws and tried to hide them any way possible. I wouldn't make eye contact, i looked the other way when a guy i liked was talking to me and even hid my face with my hair. I was young. I had no idea what beauty truly meant.

And then....i grew up! I felt and still feel extrememly comfortable with guys that i'm not interested in. I tend to have better friendships with guys. Such as; they don't secretely hate you because they envy the things about you or are jealous of the things you have---they just naturally like the person you are and don't let "girl" issues get in the way. We can laugh over the word "Fart" and call it a day!

When I met Bryan, I was totally not into him the way he was me. I probably did more things in front of him that I wouldn't have done when I was with a guy that I "Liked."

Probably because I didn't care if he liked me or not. And now that I'm 13 years older, I totally understand WHY GUYS FALL FOR YOU!

Tips on how to make someone fall in love with you!

1.) When someone is talking to you, whether you like them or not: LOOK them in the EYE!

2.) Smile. Smiles are so contagious, genuinely beautiful and can make someones day.

3.) Wink. Just a little bit. My specialty is a simple wink. I can't help it but my eye naturally winks at some people. I don't even think about doing it, it just does it. {my right eye is a killa}. Now just because I wink at you, doesn't mean I want to crawl in the sack. In my personal life, I just want everyone to feel beautiful, loved, liked, etc....but it works if you want people to love, like you!

4.) Laugh. If something is funny---Laugh.

5.) Eat. Eat a lot of food and don't ever be afraid to eat with your mouth open. I never ate in front of guys. Now I couldn't care less. When I'm hungry and you sit right in front of me, beware this mouth is chomping. I eat like a pig. Ok...I keep it classy when I want to!

6.) Be the first to say hello or something. I notice some people {we won't mention names} tend to ignore that you are there?! and fail to say good morning to you. Why is it that when you like someone, you don't talk to them? Say Hello, Good Morning, How are you, Have a good night...etc.

Ok. So maybe they just don't like you and don't want to speak to you? with some people that may be the case. But for a guy/girl who is showing signs of uncomfortableness with someone:

signs include-

a.) not making full eye contact

b.) looking at you when you don't think they're looking (we have good eyes for a reason: we can see)

c.) won't talk to you much about your personal life

d.) act shy around you but not others

e.) tells you someone else likes you but really that someone else is them {they're just dishing to see if you like that someone back}

f.) acting like they forgot what you told them just to ask you the same question over and over

g.) purposly bumping into you and apologizing profusely

h.) acting like you don't exist sometimes, trying to pick on you, make you feel bad or like you did something wrong, or like you are an idiot. weird but true.

they act like this because they like you but don't want you to know it=immaturity

in relationships, whether it's friendships or dating, you don't know how to act around a person you like simply because you don't want that feeling of rejection. you MUST come out of that little shell and be yourself. Ultimately this is why people love you!! Because you are who you are and no one can replace that!

7.) Give compliments. I tend to replace a compliment given to me with the , "so do you" and it turns into a laughing moment because then the sarcasm sneaks in. I often get, "You look nice today!" When in reality, I couldn't look nicer than the meat i'm slicing and so I just say, "So do you!" and we both bust out laughing because we really don't look that great! But who cares.

8.) Be fun. Some people are just too serious. Joke a little, laugh and have moments when you make those little remarks, looks, gestures because sometimes we just need to live. The seriousness doesn't have to be ALL THE TIME.

9.) Be Real. Say whatever you want to say and do whatever you want to do, because if you think someone won't like you because you say, "I have to Fart!" believe me---they'll like you even more!

10.) Be Messy. I'm a very clean, neat freak but sometimes, you just have to BE MESSY. For instance: my hair has to be in a net everyday. I have no time to care about fly aways, greys poking out or cheese on my face. For real. If anything ever in my life, I thought that being perfect with my looks was something attractive and that is the absolute backwards/twisted way of thinking! People like to see your hair a bit messy sometimes. If something is on your face (in my case, people know why it's there) we laugh and don't mind, and if we look hella tired it's because we work our asses off. It's okay to look a little less than perfect as long as we're still smiling and making light of the day!

11.) Don't Be LAZY. I'm very work oriented, have a strong belief that if you think you have nothing to be doing, do something! People are very attracted to me keeping busy, cleaning, my customer service skills and my work ethic. They also love that I don't have to be told to do something, I'm just smart enough to do it. Everything is COMMON SENSE in this world. Although there are many that have no idea what that is and need to be slapped. But if you have a brain, use it. Do what your mind tells you to do instead of standing around doing nothing!!

12.) Play Hard to Get but Not too Hard. I'm personally way too busy to make time for anyone other than my two girls and my babe. But if you don't already have a family, still play like you are far too busy for people. I don't text people back right away. That's not because I'm playing hard to get it's just because I simply couldn't care less about texting but I notice it pisses people off and I don't do it intentionally but you can. Here's the thing. People get irate when you don't show them attention. Don't ever be the first to jump on anything right away. Love takes time and it def. happens when you are least expecting it. If you get a text, let it sit for a while before you respond. If you get an invite, act like you are unsure of showing up and perhaps show up at last minute. It doesn't have to be all the time but pick and choose when you want to play.

I personally don't have time for other people outside of my family right now. We work crazy hours and we cherish the time spent home with each other. I don't need or want anyone else. And here's the thing about getting people attracted to you---it happens when you really don't want it to happen! I'm not looking for a man or a relationship and I try to make guys at my work NOT LIKE ME. It's the things I'm naturally doing to be myself that I thought would make people not like me and it's working against me. I thought if I scratch my nose in front of someone or left cheese on my apron that people wouldn't be so attracted to me. I thought that if I state, "I Gotta Fart" in front of a dude that they would just say ew, your gross...instead I get laughs and " here do it in the cooler, so it doesn't smell! "

My point is....Always Be Yourself and Everyone Else will love you FOR YOU!

-------------------How to Make someone Stay in Love with you------------------

Have Sex. Lots of it. Make time for your love. Don't feel like having it tonight, fine. Don't go more than 3 days without it.

Communicate. Talk about anything and everything. Don't ignore situations, come up with solutions and make it work. Together it will happen, alone will break you! A family that prays together, stays together.

Don't Have Secrets. Bryan and I tell each other about everything. At the end of the day, this man has my back no matter what. He'll protect me to the fullest and needs to know everything, from the guys who like me, to the guys that don't. Together we have secrets, apart we do not.

Go out alone. Without the kids. We are very fortunate enough now to have the girls stay home by themselves sometimes and when they are at school, we have mini lunch dates. it's important to just take a moment out of your busy day to sneak a little kiss in the middle of the day. especially if you skipped sex the night before.

Be Supportive. It's okay to disagree but the end result should be to support what your loved ones wishes are and for you to both mutally agree that the decision is the best for both. Support each other and make sure you both are good with whatever the decision may be.

Fighting is Healthy. As long as you make up. Bryan and I have mini fights, even big fights but they only last for 2.5 seconds and then we talk to each other like nothing happened. Even when we are upset, we have a rule that we don't ever leave without kissing or saying I love you. It's never a good feeling when you are angry but don't ever, ever leave a heated situation without saying, "I love you!" You'll never forgive yourself if that loved one was taken from you that next minute.

-The next time you argue and they want to leave, before the door shuts, shout out, "Love you!" it makes you both realize that the fighting isn't worth it and you both need to get over it!

Give compliments. I shouted in a parking lot one day after lunch;, "Bye Sexy!" and it threw him for a loop. Bryan is my cutie, my sexy hunk-o rama but he struggles with his own issues and it's nice to make him feel good about himself and for him to know that I love him and I'm def. still attracted to him.

Send an unexpected email/text or little note in his lunch box. Just something simple that makes you both realize that the love is still alive.

Take showers together. We have a big enough shower to jump in and unwind even if it's only a few minutes!

Give body rubs. I struggle with this because my hands and wrists have the worst arthritis but it's important. I used to hate the feeling of slimy lube but lube it up and rub!

Make time. If you think you are far too busy to make time for each other whether it's sex, mini lunch dates, chatting to catch up, etc.....it's never not a good time to make time for your babe!

Love. We both love each other more than anything and our love is wider, deeper than the sea! It takes both to love, to understand and to make the relationship work. Don't blame each other for anything, take those blames and turn them into thin air. They are non-existant.

♥Happy Love Making♥

I have NO idea what day it is?!

2012-01-05T07:20:00.002-05:00

all i know is that this pretty fella was walking around town looking lost and confused----I totally feel him!!

Amazon Guy

2012-01-02T06:10:00.002-05:00

i'm sorry! who is this guy? i guess this cute fella is the amazon guy! M has been making these awesome collages of photos she has on her new phone and i just love them. i'm out of the loop just discovering this one! haha. ahhh'well---here's to monday!

Honey Hazel-so i'm pretty basic!

2012-01-01T10:59:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year Bloggy Friends! I've been under the weather these past few weeks and have missed you! How was your holidays? Ours was very laid back. We snuggled, worked, coughed and sneezed! We also got loads of perfume in this household and ordinarily, I would be in heaven with the scents but since I have a cold, the smell is killing me! {the girls are going crazy}

The girls were in their glory on Christmas. I tell Bryan that we aren't going to go all out and guess what dad always does at the last minute (and i mean very last minute)...goes ALL out! He's by far too good for us! He deserves a post all to himself {coming soon}. I'm not one to brag about our gifts, so I'll just tell you that he is beyond fabulous!

So tell me! how was your vacations, holidays, new year thus far!?

OH------I almost forgot about Honey Hazel. I love it. Do you? I'm pretty plain jane with my layouts and names; in case i like to change but I'm loving this new name---it's just what i was looking for!

You can expect more fashion posts from me in 2012. And of course my daily life here in SW FL! Live it......Muaz. XOXO

and i'm ever changing

2011-12-22T11:07:00.000-05:00

Wine Tasting at Work, NO!

2011-12-20T07:17:00.002-05:00

Publix always has a wine tasting event. We happen to be working while it's going on. It's funny because they tell us all the time to taste the cheese, different meats and such so that we can recommend to our customers. Yet when it comes to the wine, forget it. We aren't so lucky. Our specific location offers a beautiful wine department where the host is always on loud speaker getting everyone to come over to taste the wine. Mind you, she's a psycho road rage woman who was behind me at a light one morning while going into work, spun her tires to get past me to rush into the parking lot because she thought she was gonna beat me there and get in sooner than I or something. Needless to say, I followed behind her; parking right beside her getting out to let her know I worked there as well and called her out on her road rage just by giving her the eye. Perhaps she's sneaking drinks?! But It's probably the best store to shop at because everyone leaves happy with their wine and cheese. And yes, these two departments are bumped right next to our deli. It's rather awesome. Except when you get rich drunks who actually come in and talk to you forever with their nasty breath. And some are assholes. But funny assholes. And it makes the day that much more interesting. Not to mention the crazy shit that goes on behind the scenes. I'm telling you, if i could video this place of work---i'd be the most watched reality show on television. Hmmm.....maybe i'll get a hidden cam and place on my glasses?! eh, no?!

Allergy, Asthma Relief for our Children

2011-12-19T08:51:00.000-05:00

Since living in SW FL for four years, our girls have extremely horrible asthma and allergies this time of year. It's beyond horrible. The coughing spells Hannah has especially at night are heart breaking, sleepless and uncomfortable. Not only for her but all of us. We live in a small condo. The girls have shared bedrooms and they are tiny. We weren't sure if we were gonna purchase here in FL but now we are. We'll be searching for new homes this summer.

Every year she gets put back on Singular, Nasonex, Proventil, Switched to Flovent, Tried the Nasal Cleaning System, Advair, and Allegra. Which btw, bother me to the core. I dislike giving my children any medicine, steroids in particular. Not to mention all the otc meds we've tried. None do their job. It's a waste of money. If your child suffers from severe allergies, asthma, then you know they do not help at all.

Doctors have never been clear telling us exactly what is wrong with the girls, just print the scripts out and pump them with huge amounts of meds. I'm never happy about this. It drives me insane. I do notice that the singular works wonders but in order for them to get back in her system, they need to be on them several months before the season kicks in otherwise it takes weeks for any signs of improvement. That's the only one I give them now. With sudafed at night. Along with their multi-vitamin gummies.

The advair disqus is the most ridiculous thing. I could never seem to get a puff in her without it running out before she even inhaled. And after reading some side effects that didn't make me happy, she was off before I got another refill.

I'll be honest. I don't go into their room much other than to bring their hamper in and steal some of M's perfume before I go to work. But I don't spend as much time as they do in there. They read in there, watch tv and sleep obviously, so they are affected more than Bryan and I. There is something about really small rooms near the front of the house here in FL. They tend to get more muggy, even with the ceiling fan on, on top of the air conditioner. But I went to put their clothes away {mind you, the girls usually put their stuff away} and was in there for not even 5 minutes before I felt nausea and stuffed. I said this is ridiculous. I had to leave the room immediately. Told Bry we had to get something in there to make it less claustrophobic. The humidifier wasn't working and the fan was making it worse.

The day we both had off from work last week, we went and did some shopping. The first thing on the list was to get a de-humidifier. After looking at Home Depot, we decided the options weren't great and headed to Lowe's to find a variety of high quality purifiers. I read the box and was like, "this is exactly what they need." the GermGuardian was the one that stood out. it's a hepa 3 in 1 air purifier that cleans the air, eliminates germs, odors, kills bacteria and reduces the allergy, asthma symptoms.

We headed home to start this baby before the girls got home. We cleaned the entire room. Carpet cleaned their floor and set this on the stand. Immediately, we smelled FRESH AIR. I kid you not, this thing was working magic. For the first week, we noticed Hannah's cough subsided. We continue the singular at night with the sudafed but that's just because we're in the first stages of the "Curing" if you will. I'm not one to be satisfied this quickly with a product but I have to tell you parents that if your child or even you suffer from allergy symptoms, even asthma, then you definitely need to invest in a great purifier. This one was $158 at Lowes and worth every penny. We've already seen a difference and although it may not cure her, it's helped tremendously and she's sleeping through the night now.

if you just make me believe

2011-12-16T17:30:00.000-05:00

hannah had mentioned a week back that santa wasn't real to her classmates. and. boy. did that go smoothly. big sis and her are nosy little gals. they finally catched on after all these years that dad is santa. in our defense, there really is no room to hide anything in this rinky dink condo, spare me the space now would ya. i think we've even returned gifts quite a bit due to them knowing! but although they know the truth, they still say "Santa" this and "Santa" that. They still want to go see him and believe that he is real! So i took her to eat breakfast with Santa and she walked up to him knowing in the back of her mind that this man could be pretend but still held hope that he was someone real, someone special, someone who cared about all the little kids in the world. She forgot about dad and remembered that Santa was the man who made all these toys in Target.

But Santa isn't about making toys. He's bigger than that. I think we all know in our hearts what the meaning of Santa really is but don't quite comprehend the true meaning and then my friend shared this link on FB and I simply stated, YES! this is the true meaning of Santa.

i don't think any of us will ever stop believing. in hope, dreams, memories shared, in love, peace and happiness. Santa is def. powerful. xoxo

Oh Christmas Tree, you bring me such comfort!

2011-12-13T15:57:00.001-05:00

We allowed Hannah to decorate our entire tree on Thanksgiving Day. She did such a good job that I didn't change a thing. We usually all decorate together but there was something so beautiful about her doing it alone. I laid there that exact night on the couch right in front of it with the warmth of the lights glistening upon me. I dozed off in a snugly blanket and didn't want to move. I wanted to lay there forever.

Our tree stays lit whenever we are home and even sometimes when we leave. A lit Christmas Tree means hope, love, joy and dreams. To me; it's warm, comforting, pure magic!

I don't remember very many Christmas Tree moments when i was a girl! But I do remember all the moments we cherish with our girls each and every year because although the home is different, the meaning is still the same and those moments are warm, true and what life is all about ♥hopes and dreams♥

Linking up here and here.

Book Fair, Paper Art

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

i took hannah to her book fair and shot some photos....we love books and even more, i enjoy photographing. she picked out some good ones for the winter break but as i was having so much fun on the new picsart app, i came across this unique paper effect and combined all the book fair photos into it. i love it! to see the original, go here. may become my background for something here!

these are just some photos that i took and shared this on my favorite picplz. and then i did some in picnik too because i just can't figure out the grid thingy on photoshop still! anyone? help!

how was your weekend? did it include some reading!!

Sit by the Fireplace with me.......

2011-12-11T16:36:00.001-05:00

i took these photos at work. the bakery makes one hellofa gingerbread house! and you might as well snug right by the fireplace because that's how homey the atmosphere here is. i also found another great app for my photos. i used picsart to create this lovely card. the only downfall is that it takes a long time to do things like this on your phone. but i like the effects that it offers.

i have a few days off and i'm hoping to get the little shopping that i need to get done, done. the problem we have, is that we like to shop afterwards because the deals are so much better! if anyone would like to send me some coffee, feel free....that's the only thing i need to stock up on! hehe.

what's on your wishlist?

Happy Holidays: a voice that made me cry

2011-12-11T08:34:00.001-05:00

I'm super blessed to have such a huge family. My nana and papa had 10 beautiful children and out of them came so many more children that I can no longer keep up with. Although many of us venture off and live far away {thank you world for being so large}, I hold a special place in my heart for each of them, think of them often and wish we could be near. Especially this time of year. I remember my aunt told me once that you form new families. She's right, you create new family elsewhere but it's still not the same. I've seen photos of my cousins growing up right before my very eyes. Each are beautiful and makes us proud.

This is my pretty cousin Erika singing. I remember when she was born. Her mother is my beautiful aunt. Her voice just made me cry. I knew that if my heart was filled with this much joy, proudness and love from hearing her, her mother must be feeling triple that. Erika Morgan Pichette, you are so beautiful, talented, loving and blessed. Keep singing, keep shining and filling people's hearts with joy gorgeous lady! I love you so very much. xoxo

Garden Step Nightstand

2011-12-10T07:52:00.002-05:00

I'm trying really hard to get the hang of Pinterest a little more. Like all things, I try to give it a shot. Afterall, twitter used to be a dreadful experience and now i love sharing on there. While playing, I stumbled upon this garden step nightstand and thought, "How Pretty, Unique and Rugged." I like old rustic furniture. I'm not sure about the linking thing because I like to link to proper credit and I found this link that led to something I'm not quite sure of that led me to this link and I'm pretty sure I'm reliving the love for design. Anyways, it's cute eh?!

Taken

2011-12-09T08:14:00.001-05:00

i like to stop, get out of the car and lead myself right into the sunset most days. this is a huge body of water at the beginning of our community where the sun sets so magically each and every night. the most beautiful birds, fish, turtles and gators play here! i feel at such peace when i'm here. this is the best time of year to enjoy the water, the weather is cozy and the nights are just perfect.

happy weekend loves, take some time to get taken into the sunset

Shrimp Salad Circus

2011-12-08T08:38:00.000-05:00

a personal note from Vic:

"Immediately upon arrival, i get an at home feeling----a shrimp salad welcome! I love her tutorials and freebies. I'm such a busy body, so it's nice to get a step by step when needed, {especially beauty tips} have you seen her nail tutorials? hello, shrimpsauce!"

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These simple, sweet features are for my special readers as a huge thank you for sharing your lives and enjoying mine here on These Hazel Eyes! I'd love to share yours as well, head here for details and check out more friends. xoxo

King Papa Continued......

2011-12-07T08:17:00.000-05:00

Seriously Papa.....Slow Down! This is one from another litter. He's got a sister that I'm waiting patiently on seeing, she has really fluffy hair, so stay tuned!

Update: look, don't hold your bridges; here is the sister with fluff!

Truly Lovely Newlywed

2011-12-06T12:28:00.001-05:00

a personal note from Vic:

"One of the things I love about Kassi is her craftiness! I'm not a crafty person so whenever I read her blogs and see a tutorial craft post, I envy! She's also a beautiful lady and I've truly enjoyed her." And might I add, her wedding was absolutely breath taking and unique.

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These features are simple and sweet thank you posts that I offer my special readers. I'd love to highlight you, head here for details.

Spinach Dip and 34° Crispbread

2011-12-06T03:41:00.000-05:00

i've always wanted to try spinach dip but was afraid i wasn't going to like but i am loving these crispbread cracker type things that the cheese guy at my work got me hooked on. he's always bringing me samples and these were perfect for all kinds of snacks. and then this pretty lady inspired me to just go get some to make but i wanted to try the store bought first and i am totally gonna try making my own dip now. do you like or have you tried spinach dip? yum.

a Love Like This

2011-12-03T21:43:00.001-05:00

Happy Weekend, Don't get Burned

2011-12-02T08:28:00.000-05:00

You know that job! That job that treats me so well? it's scarred me up pretty bad. This is just one territory marking. I've never had bruises, aches and pains like these before.

And the weirdest thing about it-----{ I L-O-V-E it! } the job that is.....i still look forward to working each day! if i don't kill myself, i should be a multi-millionaire by the time i'm one hundred eighty nine. i said i wanted to learn each station at least once; that's the last time i'm doing chicken.

And it's the first time I've had an entire weekend off. Super excited about sharing some more fam time and getting some holiday shopping done for my babes. Oh. And if catching up on sleep is even possible, we'd like to snug for just a weee bit.

How about y'all, any plans? Who's doing more online shopping this year? I think i want to tackle that! And what is your favorite perfume---i need new ones:

So far I've had Dolce & Gabbana, J'Adore Dior, DKNY be delicious, All the Cliniques, Tommy Girl, Curious, and probably more but i can't think.....i just want some new ones. I smelled Burberry Weekend on a gal and want that one but would love to know what y'all love, please share! Happy Weekend, and don't get burned {either by something hot, your job in general or your kids!}

Good Morning December

2011-12-01T10:32:00.000-05:00

I finally tasted the winter here this morning! December has arrived, marking it's territory here in SW FL. We took the tree out on Thanksgiving Day, Hannah decorated it all by herself. She did quite an amazing job and it just made her day! We leave it lit all the time. Gazing at our tree is better than any tv show on. Something about this time of year just makes me feel cozy, warm and in place. The air smells fresh here, which is something I enjoy only a few short months out the year; so despite the awful allergies, I love this time of year.

I haven't had any run ins with the golfers since. I think something like that happens out of the blue and it's just an experience in life. People are crazy but overall life is filled with Beautiful, Heart Warming People and I'm so lucky to be living this life! Let's embrace and live life to the absolute fullest. Warm wishes this December and always. xoxo

Follow the Rules of the Road

2011-11-30T10:10:00.000-05:00

So, many of you know we live in a High Class Resort Golf Community. If you follow my tweets, you know how upset some of my days are because of these seasonal snowbirds. We've lived here for almost 2 years now and get extremely irritated when retired golfers come down for season. I guess if we had known this was going to be a huge dilemma, we would not have settled. Everything that looked perfectly magical on the outside wasn't what it was cracked up to be.

I like golf. Bryan golfs sometimes and his buddies come over to weekend golf with him. The issue isn't golfing. The daily routine out of this community is sometimes overwhelming. It takes a full ten minutes to get out of here onto the main streets because most golfers carting think they "Own" these streets and don't have to Stop at their Stop Signs. They glide through one after another like they have the right of way. I'm in a vehicle and have no stop sign at this one particular area. They have 2. I drive this probably more than 5 times a day. I drive slow and most the time I don't have an issue with letting them "Glide" through or sometimes I even stop completely for them, wave and let them go even though they have to stop and I don't.

I am patient with them. I have never actually ran one over, although sometimes I would love to. On this particular day, I was coming home a little after 3 from picking Hannah up and at the beginning of the community there is a 4 way stop including the golfers little stop signs, right where the pic above was taken. And when I was at that stop sign, about 15 carts glided through one after another. Hmmm. I thought we were supposed to take turns here? But I let it slide, didn't get frustrated and continued down the way where another crossing is. From afar I can see golf carts running the stop signs and here is where I DON'T have one, so it is my legal right of way to keep driving through.

Except they don't even bother to LOOK to see if any cars are coming, they AUTOMATICALLY think they Don't Have to STOP?! Excusez??!!! I can't drive past 5 miles an hour, if i do i'll hit them and believe me i wanted to at this point. There are not just 2 carts as seen in the video below, there are 50 { i kid you not }. If you are familiar with golfing, you know this is their game and they like to stick together from HOLE to HOLE and no body else in the world matters...it's all Golf. So the fact that none of them were turning their heads to see if a vehicle was coming made me mad. Because they knew they weren't supposed to be doing what they were doing. So. I Stopped. Real Close to Them. BEEEEEPED. REAL LOUD. HONK. HONK. HONK. Scared the shit out of the lady near my horn. And the rest of the fuckers behind that cart started to YELL at me. I unrolled the window and yelled back. "You have a stop sign. STOP." they insisted on arguing with me mentioning I was speeding? Huh. If I was speeding, (mind you, I seen them from a mile away) I would have hit all of your asses and we wouldn't be arguing in the middle of the road.
I was going to roll my window back up after telling them to "Follow the Rules of the Road." But all of a sudden, the lady whom I scared the shit out of, starts pounding her fist on my passenger side window. Oh fucking yeah! Now I'm stuck in the middle of the road with 50 carts surrounding me and can't move to even slowly pull to the side of the road here and this bitch thinks she now has the RIGHT to punch on my car. Who the fuck do these people think they are?

I find a way to weasel out of the middle of them to pull to the side and put my car in park. It's on. She immediately ran to her cart thinking she was going to run away from me after attacking my car when I clearly have the right of way and you're just mad because my horn scared you! I storm over to her cart where I'm screaming, "Who the fuck do you think you are touching my car." You wanna pound on something, try putting that fist my way lady jany. She hurries, jumps into her cart while I'm not a foot in front of her "Judge" Husband who thinks he's now going to over power me. I kept demanding her name when she refused to answer and he kept saying his name was "Judge, I think I know it all." I didn't give two flying shits about his name, I wanted the bitch. So even though he was tall and trying to prevent me from getting to her, I barged around to see the name tag on their cart and pointed to the bitch telling her she's going to jail. Stood there and called 911. Meanwhile the entire crew of the Heritage Bay Community comes rushing over from the ruckus and I firmly stated this was unbelievable that they think they don't have to follow the rules of the road (they have those little stop signs for a reason) and that it was disrespectful to me as a human being. I have every right to drive through my streets without stopping to wait for 50 carts to glide through because they think I don't have a life and I have ten hours to wait for them when I don't have a stop sign. Something is clearly wrong with that.

The officer who came, had my back completely. He looked right at the management and told them they have to enforce the rules and tell them they cannot run stop signs. Of course the carts had boogied off by this time but this officer waited until they got done with their game at the return and gave them a taste of his authority. He said, Judge or not....he has no right and he's going to make them understand it firmly. He stood with me for about 15 minutes just talking about how people are rude and it's just a respect thing. He said he guarantees that she'll be scared after he gets finished with her. I truly wanted her arrested but there was nothing I could do. So know that if you want to pound on someone's car window, you can as long as you don't break or crack it, phhhftt. And her palm print is still there.

To me, this community is all golf, no family, no park, no life besides the golfing community and that's totally fine. We're only here until we buy our home next summer and this will not be a place that I recommend for anyone with children. They can continue to make their money off the snowbirds because if we want to get all "Who's better than Who", these people acted like I was a nobody because I was in a car and they were in a cart, we probably make more money than them, pay more fees than them and when it's all said and done, people who live here year round are not going to want to be here or recommend them. We deserve respect. Golf cart or no cart, being caught up in a game is no reason to think you rule. I do, thank you very much! and just so you know, i let golf carts glide through after this incident because I do have patience but when you go overboard, it's time for me to take action and let my voice be heard.

Calling All Pretties to........

2011-11-29T01:04:00.001-05:00

Hello gorgeous friends. I've been slowing re-vamping this blog of mine; i hope you like thus far! I'm still in the process of working on it and wanted some pretty faces to shine through some guest posts. I'm looking for a specific layout for these features:

I need-

1.) One Photo of You. Your Fashion, Your Face, Full Body or Your Toes-
2.) A Title for your Feature Post
3.) 2 Things you LOVE in Two Words or Less
4.) Your Favorite Color
5.) Links: to your Blog, Twitter, Facebook, Etc

I'll be posting these Photoshop Features throughout December. Please Email this to BlogLove (at) aol
xoxo, thanks pretty people---have a super pretty day!

Dear Mackenzie

2011-11-28T09:16:00.000-05:00

as i walked in on you this morning to discover you putting mascara on, i was overfilled with the most joy in my entire life. because although i've told you that you DON'T need make-up, i knew that you were blossoming into a beautiful young lady and you were now old enough to explore the things women explore. i allowed you to go to school with make-up on your face because as long as it made you feel beautiful; that's all that mattered to me.

i look at your long, gorgeous hair and i am proud. i am proud to be your mother, to have raised such a beauty. my heart melts because only yesterday you were my first born, my baby who crawled on the carpet running from me putting a diaper on your hiney. the years in between are a memory but it's the first year of your life that i cherish most and seeing you more than 12 years later is a marvelous feeling.

as you stepped out of the car and i watched you walk into middle school, i began to cry. you are my life, my world, my everything. you're are not only a pretty young lady, you are brave, you hold your head high and that's truly my blood. no matter what struggles we face, we still show power. we are strong even when we are weak, we are quiet until we explode, we are fun, loving, non-confrontational {unless need be} and we are we. and if i shall leave this life early, i know you'll be okay....because you are my strong, beautiful, magnificent daughter♥

Hannah the Hunter

2011-11-27T21:16:00.000-05:00

Clearly my girls and their father had a super fun day without mother. I'll share more pics soon. Have a nice night lovely friends, xoxo

Embrace the Face -Holiday Beauty Package Giveaway

2011-11-25T20:33:00.001-05:00

I used to be very self-concious. I still have days when I worry about what my face looks like and need to check a mirror to make adjustments. I think most, if not all women will agree that beauty is something we crave, we wish we could change maybe something about us even if it's minor. The truth is that no one is flawless. I have always tried to hide my big forehead with sidebangs, i have a flat face, big round cheeks, no shoulders, beauty marks galore and the list goes on...but I embrace the fact that in my own special way, I'm beautiful no matter what. I'm confident that my beauty shines through my personality, my smiles, my loving nature and all of those flaws are invisible to me.

Some of you know that I recently started a job. But what many of you may not know is that I must wear a hair net everyday for 8-9 hours. My hair is pulled back, my forehead is flashing and my hair doesn't cover my big round cheeks. My fly away greys even show. But it's okay because I've embraced this face. And I want you to as well.

Embracing the Face is all about loving the skin you're in, the beauty that you were given; flaws and all. I want you to take a close up photo of yourself, slick the hair back, let your face shine and upload in a post writing about Embrace the Face, tell us what you may dislike but ultimately what you love about you and your face. I love my hazel eyes, my freckles, my smoochie nose and my little lips...oh and the little beauty mark that sits on my upper lip!

Link up your Embrace the Face posts here and be entered to win a Holiday Beauty Package Valued at Over $100. Included in your beauty package will be:

-Dove Skin Products {soaps, lotions, cleansers, deodorants, and more}
-Candles and Smelly Scented Items
-A Gift Card Valued at $15 to Starbucks or DD{ your choice}
-Washcloths/Hand Towels
-Foot Scrubs, Body Sponges, Face Masks and more
-Compact Mirror
-A Journal
-A Personal Ornament from Me to You!
-Notes {sticky notes, cards, etc}
-and extras

To Be Entered: Simply share the link to your Embrace the Face Post here on this linky. A winner will be selected on or about 12/20. Embrace.

I Don't Want This Night to End........

2011-11-24T23:44:00.000-05:00

I hadn't heard of Luke Bryan before....I'm not going to lie- but when I first heard his 'I Don't Want this Night to End' song on the radio several weeks ago, I instantly fell in love...and his name is spelled exactly like my Bryan so that may also have something to do with it....and maybe since his voice is amazing and he's handsome too! And I'm not the only one who constantly listens to his music, my girls dance and sing it all the time. Hannah blurts out "You're Looking So Damn Hot" and it's completely the cutest thing I've ever heard....! xo

Cranberry Cheesecake Bars=Hello YumZ

2011-11-23T01:30:00.000-05:00

If you hate Cheesecake, this is definitely not for you! I'm a cheesecake, anything creamy lover; so this Pillsbury recipe was a must try! It was simple and different from the ordinary cookies we bake. The cranberry was an iffy thought but what the hell, just try it, eh?!

You'll Need:
-Full Roll of Pillsbury Sugar Cookie Dough
-1 Cup of Old Fashioned Oats
-1/4 Cup Packed Brown Sug
-1 8oz. Cream Cheese Softened
-1/4 Cup Flour
-2 Eggs
-1 16oz. Whole Cranberry Sauce
-1/4 Cup Sugar

Heat oven 350. In large bowl, break up cookie dough. Stir in oats and brown sug until crumbly; reserve 1/2 cup for topping. In ungreased 13X9 inch pan, press remaining mix evenly to form crust. Note: I didn't have this size pan, used a half of a flat pizza pan and it worked lovely. Bake 10-15 minutes or until golden.

Meanwhile, in medium bowl with electric mixer, beat cream cheese, flour, sugar and eggs on medium until smooth.

Remove partially baked crust from oven. Spread cream cheese evenly over crust. Drop cranberry sauce by spoonfuls over mixture. Note: i didn't use all of it because i didn't want a heavy cranberry flavor, just a light one. Crumble the reserved cookie dough over the top.

Return to oven for 25 minutes or until edges are browning. Cool, cut into bars. Note: I like to put my baked goods in the freezer for about 5-8 minutes. And Enjoy.

More Work, More Play, More Laughs

2011-11-22T10:15:00.001-05:00

Who said work wasn't fun! I work in one of the busiest deli's there is here in Naples, FL, I love the people, the craziness at times and getting to know everyone better. Last night I was cracking up laughing all night {this mind is quite funny and who needs anyone else to make them laugh when you have my brain} and this new guy kept walking in the back room asking me what I was laughing about. I was in the dish room spraying dishes, bursting out laughing about someone else there at work, and he comes in stating, "You're back here laughing. I thought you were with someone but you're all by yourself, standing in the corner, LAUGHING!" Yep...that's me! He said it to another lady we work with and she says, "She's always doing that!"

You see, I don't work with a few associates at one time, I work with many. I think we had 9 people closing plus the ones who left at 8, so we're pretty jammed with employees not to mention the managers and other associates in other departments; it gets pretty wild at times. Oh and don't forget the million customers whom I love cracking up with as well. There are a handful of customers that will stand at the deli counter for a very long time conversating with us. But the convos behind the counter get interesting. Much less, the reason for Laughter. This other new guy said to me he was scared of me, bahahaha. Come again. He's telling someone else that I scare him. Ok. "I don't know why, she just scares me!" I'm very intimidating. We work in close proximity, everyone watches and knows what everyone is doing and I work fast, get business taken care of, don't play games while working with customers and let other bitches who mumble shit under their breath know that I heard them and then they say, "oh, no no no no, no problem!" yeah....that's what i thought! Straight up....don't mess! I think they get the picture. And they'll learn to love it or else.....;! I think he wants to be on my side. Which makes me laugh too. Peep.

These Hazel Eyes

2011-11-21T12:35:00.000-05:00

I'm incredibly crazy, I know! You know too if you've been here from the beginning. I'm always changing things around here and half {perhaps more} of my readers don't even know who the hell I am. I wanted from the beginning of this blog to be open to tell my life like it is and over time, I wanted an innocent blog because at moments you get a feeling of "whoa, that's too much..." but what the hell is a blog if you can't be who you are?!, express what you love, what you hate, what you want, don't want, what you adore, what you are experiencing---let me tell you, oh prettyful is an expression I will continue to use but I've discovered a name that will stick with this site for some time now and it will fully express my life, the good, the bad, the pretty and more! i love me...i love my hazel eyes and this is my blog through my hazel eyes! it's a life like no other, it's mine. These Hazel Eyes will tell a story each day as it has been but in a new way. It's what I view, what I see; as a mother, friend, lover, fighter, giver, livelier than life kinda gal, chasing gator fanatic and a person who wants everyone to love me for me! I did my research and nobody else has the name so it's all mine.......

Welcome to These Hazel Eyes; Get Pretty, Get Cozy and Enjoy the New Blog! Xoxo

PS: I'm revamping the entire thing, so bear with the changes and stay tuned for the upcoming.

Hello Holidays

2011-11-21T11:19:00.000-05:00

thank you for creeping up on us! i enjoy the walks throughout the mall, spraying endless perfumes to tell my hubs which ones to get me for Christmas, stocking up on Bath and Body works lotions, sprays, hand soaps and little hand sanitizers, grabbing iced cold lattes, coffees and spiced holiday flavors mixed with ~~yummy~~ delicious whipped cream toppings and loads of sugar highs. Thank you for being so wonderful. Happy Holidays friends. What do you love the best about this time of year?!

Saturday Inspiration

2011-11-19T09:42:00.001-05:00

This is a glimpse of one of the stores I own, not the one I'm currently working at but we had a class at this store this past Thursday and I can't tell you how much I'm truly enjoying this new life. Do you like the guys feet in the second pic. Hehe. I'm always snapping secretive pics here and there at work and people are like, "What are you doing." Hello---I Blog! LOL. Maybe I'll become our Companies Professional Blogger.

Anyways, it really hit me yesterday...{i've been thinking about it for weeks} that I'm going to take control and be the boss of our department. What people don't know about me is that I don't need this job, I want this job. I am and have been fortunate enough to stay home, raise my girls and have had a supportive husband for nearly 14years. He's allowed me to stay home/work from home for 8 of those years and since both girls are growing steadily on me, it was time for mom to go work outside the home and it's been something I'm loving and I'm anxious for. I work with amazing people who love me, even the lady who tried to be iffy with me in the beginning likes me now, I have that effect on people...you either love me or hate me but you better love me because Lady V ain't going anywhere, I prove to go above and beyond, I learn quickly, I have a personality like no other, it shines and everyone sees it.

My point is, don't ever let anyone tell you that you cannot do something or you're not good enough. You can and will accomplish anything you put your mind to. When I want something, I get it. I don't ever back down. After talking to some pretty important people, they know where I stand and have my back. Open your mouth, speak up and have a voice. Strive for what you want and prove that you can be anything you want to be. I'm the type of person that needs to prove that she can accomplish anything and I put that to rest. I'm looking forward to this journey and I'll keep you posted as much as possible.....in the meantime, get to proving what you can do and come back to share it with me. Xoxo

Sand Sculpting {Just a Breezy Beach Day}

2011-11-17T06:37:00.000-05:00

The sand sculpting event here in sw fl is always a good excuse to hit the beach in November. The weather was nice. A high 80's with winds and a few tiny sprinkles hit us. It was then when we just enjoyed the nice walk along the beach, headed towards the water and then our not so grown kid wanted to rock climb or bungie jump. It was a hot mess, not to mention the price was outrageous to go on such dirty things. So on the way out, we donated some money to breast cancer and let them get feathers in their hair. Much better than getting icky! Now they love us. And I just loved the ride outta there:

Banana Nutter Kinda Gal

2011-11-15T04:33:00.000-05:00

Mackenzie is in love with smoothies. She has to mix her medicine in something, so she decided to play a smoothie quiz on a girls game site she was on. She's a Banana Nutter kind of gal. We mixed peach yogurt {you can use vanilla, strawberry or whatever your heart desires}, almonds, a banana, and a squirt of honey! Mixed til smooth and boy I thought it was gonna be gross but it was sure delicious. Enjoy your nanner nutter.

Perhaps the Happiest Day of Her Life

2011-11-14T08:14:00.000-05:00

Never mind the blurry pic--It's kind of hard to get a good photo of your kids when you're sitting far away and have a cell phone that only zooms so far.

The morning that I had a day off was a morning that I was completely whooped, just wanted to sleep, wanted to get caught up on rest because I worked a 3-Midnight shift 2 nights and had to go in the next mornings at six, waking up at 4 am. So i had 2.5 hours of sleep that week. Hannah asked me to go to her assembly for Veterans Day that morning and I hesitated, telling her maybe. She was stoked about learning the songs they were singing and said she wanted me to come see her sing. I put her on the bus and went home to do my usual coffee because if you're a mother, you know falling back to sleep is nearly impossible. There was so much to do, laundry, a house showing at 12 and mom needed a shower!

I ended up even having time for lunch with my babe, ran back to the house to sparkle it before the realtor came and straightened my hair, put some good clothes on and went straight to her school. I was even a half an hour early, go me! Relaxed in the car with the seat back, sun blazin' on me until 1:30. Went in, sat down across from where the kids were sitting on the floor and waited for her class to come in.

She came in looking for me, eyes were all over the place. I even thought she was disappointed because she couldn't find me. I stood up and walked closer to her, waving and finally blowing kisses when she realized I had come to see her. It was a moment of pure love for your child and how she felt inside was visibly melting. I knew she was beyond happy to see me there and it meant everything to her. No matter the event, whatever the reason is, you need to go to your school to show your child support and let them know you'll always be there for them. Tiny little things that seem like no big deal are a super big deal to your kids. I wanted her to know I loved her no matter how tired I was, no matter how sick I felt, no matter what, I love you endlessly and if you need me to come watch you sing or just sit on the floor next to your friends, I'll be right there watching.

She couldn't stop pointing at me and telling her friends where I was. When she knew i was taking a few pics, she got all giddy. Hannah's pic says it all.

Ice Cream Cures

2011-11-13T09:33:00.000-05:00

Did I forget to mention that ice cream cures any kids tantrums. Sure does!

I Just Called....To Say

2011-11-03T12:43:00.000-04:00

I am so very busy with life that I just cannot grasp getting myself together at the moment. I need time to rejuve, get back into the groove and get my restless feet up off the ground. But I do Love you so very Much and I'm sure I'll be chatting with you soon. Take Care.....XoXo

Trunk or Treating

2011-10-31T08:30:00.000-04:00

You see, we have no traditional trick or treating here in sw fl; we have to trunk or treat! The church down the street was clever enough to come up with such a cute event for our kids. Although we didn't feel good, we made the most out of it. Threw on an old costume and let a kid be a kid. Hannah was the only one trunk or treating. M claims to be too old and in all reality, she is. My eldest is a pre-teen guys! This is nuts. She's growing way too quickly on me. Funny story; i picked her up the other day and she was talking about 7th grade, I was thinking she was a sixth grader still and she's like, "Mom, I'm in 7th grade." Omgarsh. Excusez?

She brought a friend home to make some goodies instead. They made cookies, chocolate drizzle caramel popcorn and hung out most the night. I pretty much played with the cute puppies.

Since our Halloween is over and the monsters have left the building, I'd love to see your costumes and fun, leave the links below! Enjoy and have a safe, happy halloween!

Happy Sundae

2011-10-30T09:14:00.000-04:00

Dear goodness, where have my Happy Sundaes been?! Since the girls and I have been enjoying our baking and shopping for yum, we've decided to purchase vanilla ice cream and make delicious smoothies and these ice cream sammy's. Not sure how much we'll enjoy since we can't handle the milk products but we'll have a blast creating I'm sure. Any plans today? we're just hanging-catch us on picplz for daily photo updates! xoxo

ps: click the pic to get recipe

Have a Delicious Weekend

2011-10-28T09:24:00.000-04:00

Good Day Loves! My two days off consists of lots of baking! I made these pumpkin spice cookies yesterday before the girls got home and today we're making more halloween goodies. M is bringing a friend home, so i must run to the grocery store and get some more yum. I have a huge box of smores that I'll be breaking up and stealing the hershey's for more popcorn fun. Stay tuned.

Tip of the Day- Every Kitchen Deserves Cookies:

xoxo

Life in the Cold Room {Banana Pudding}

2011-10-27T08:41:00.001-04:00

Dear Lovelies, I promised I'd start sneaking pics in here and there at work and we're in the Cold Room today. {well last night}

I work in one of the LARGEST, Busiest Deli's in the world. It's called a Hybrid Store. If you are not familiar, neither am I; LOL! I've been tackling this experience for nearly two months now and I ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT. No lie, this is the best job I've ever had, hands down it is going to be my career. I don't only work in one department of the Deli, it's numerous sections and I'm busy all day/night and the time goes by extremely fast.

We have what you call a hectic schedule. I am on different duties throughout the week. Last night I was scheduled for 2 day, which is Grab and Go's. You are basically in the cold room preparing the food for our busy customers. I made this delicious banana pudding. You simply put a huge bag of Vanilla Pudding in the bowl, cut some nanners up and smash vanilla wafers in it. Then sprinkle the wafer crumbs on top. A simple and easy grab and go that everyone loves.

Now friends, if you are thinking this is just a basic deli; think again! I am not kidding when I told you it's the busiest, largest. It's not any ordinary deli. It's the whole nine yards. It's a restaurant in a small grocery store. One of the nicest, I might add. Stay tuned for more details and sections of the deli, I'm sure I'll be sharing more of my busy life in the deli soon. Have a good day! Go make some banana pudding. xoxo

Yearbook Mems

2011-10-26T12:23:00.000-04:00

If you follow me on twitter or picplz, you may remember my yearbook mems post. I just happened to be cleaning our closet because I had to tear all the totes back out, re-organize after everything got thrown on them and re-do the entire closet space. I had all the totes scattered all over my bedroom when Hannah, AKA NosyBeans ripped through all of them and got my yearbooks out.

It's so funny how I go back in time and remember everything about those "High School" Days. It was an experience I don't think we'll ever forget. I'd like to go on that reunion show they do on TVLand.
I must say, I had the biggest hair on the cheerleading squads.

That shit rocked! I'm currently growing it again and we'll be rocking those big puffy curls again here shortly! Apparently I was a 'Psycho Chick' but I clearly don't remember being psycho. Bahaha. I was obviously sneaky {i still am} {things never change}, I wore my heart on my sleeve until my senior year where I broke out of my shell and really started living the life I wanted to live. I was on my own the moment I graduated and I couldn't be more proud of myself. One thing I will never do with my girls is make them feel like they ever have to hide things, be secretive or feel that overbearing feeling I did. I know I was given these girls for a reason and that reason is to raise them the way I was not.

You live experiences to give and I'm not only proud to be my girls mom but I'm proud to be their role model, "Hero" according to Hans. ! XO

Daily Photo {Stella}

2011-10-25T08:53:00.000-04:00

My Pretty Niece♥

Glazed Popcorn

2011-10-24T09:12:00.000-04:00

The girls and I {me mostly} had so much fun making this popcorn. I had a box ready to go from World Market, one of my favorite places to shop and just needed the time to prepare it. You don't need a pre-made box to create this delicious snack; just some kernels, caramel and nuts. Oh, and of course a mouth watering craving!

What I enjoyed most was the old cooking style. Popping kernels on the stove was something I had never done before. It was simple and awesome. Placed the tablespoon of oil in the large pot, on medium/high heat, waited for it to get hot and placed the kernels in. They began popping once I placed the lid on. Swoosh it around so they don't burn, turn the heat down a bit and remove when you hear no more popping. Meanwhile, I was melting the glazed mix. If you want to grab a bag of caramel candy and melt that you can, just use the microwave on 30 sec intervals, stirring in between until it's soft and ready to pour. We had used the stove for our mix, so if you want to melt over the stove, I'd recommend placing a bowl over the pot of water to melt the candy, stirring until melted over low heat.

Pouring the glaze over the popcorn was my favorite part. Then you just spread with a spatula evenly spreading, drizzle the nuts over and continue to use the spatula to get them all over. Heat in the oven on 260 for 20-30 minutes to add that crunch and believe you me, this is the best snack--ever!!!!! Enjoy.

Windy Trees

2011-10-18T08:59:00.002-04:00

with our busy schedules, bryan and i rarely get to do anything by ourselves. we had time to go to lunch one day and it was super gorgeous; breezy yet the sun was shiny and bright. the wind was so nice that the palm trees looked and reminded me of long hair blowing in the wind.....I mean, just look at these photos and how their hair is flowing! So pretty;♥

We've Officially Taken Over the Monster

2011-10-18T08:43:00.000-04:00

I let the girls rip out all the halloween bins in my {cluttered} closet and this fuzz was in there. It's a monster pillow that I got on clearance one year that we've been unable to enjoy due to packing all of our stuff up, waiting patiently for our new home! Somehow his little body couldn't handle the tossing back and forth and his back side now has a hole. Something that could be easily fixed with a little needle and thread but after this incident, i rid of all the needles in this house.

When I go to work, HaniBeans hops on our bed to watch a little tv. I even tore out the wires to theirs in their room due to the stepping on a needle and said no more tv especially during the school week. They gave some fuss about it but it's working out well and I'm still a little nice, so i let them watch in my room for just a few minutes. Anyways, I think that's how this fella came to invade our bed. Hani must have been cuddling with him and left him there because since he now has a hole, he's no good for her anymore.

I hopped in bed the other night and he was under my blankets. Like really crumped in between the thousands of blankets I have on my bed in SW FL and yes, there is a huge problem with this. {i'm cold}

But i was like, what the heck is this! and it physically took me five minutes to find him in the dark while I was trying to get comfy to bed. I pulled him out and shot him on the floor. Went to work the following day and crawled into bed afterwards. It's usually late when I get home, 12:30AM so, i take a quick hot shower and hop into bed. Instead of my normal mini pillow that is usually besides me {because ever since I was pregnant 13 years ago, I have to sleep with a pillow on my left side stomach and in between my legs sometimes} ; this monster is beside me again, under the blanket. I put him in the middle, closer to Bryan's side of the bed and go to sleep.

Last night we didn't get to sleep until 2 am {loud noise upstairs} and this morning when I woke Bryan up, {I usually rip his blankets off} and guess who was butted up right under his arm; this monster!!!!!!

In Love with Pastel

2011-10-14T08:59:00.000-04:00

The color of le blog is perfect for the upcoming season but i'm deeply {madly} in love with pastels. The colors of everything pastel just puts you at a pretty feeling. xo

one, two, three, four

Pretty Stamps

2011-10-13T12:45:00.001-04:00

I've searched for the most prettyful stamps in craft stores, etc......I think I've found the ones I'm looking for friends! Check out all the amazing stamps LoveSprouts has, you'll enjoy--I'm sure!

Daily Inspir

2011-10-13T08:39:00.002-04:00

Little Pretties

2011-10-12T09:05:00.000-04:00

Halloween Lanterns {and of course candy}

2011-10-11T08:44:00.000-04:00

The girls made these halloween lanterns all by themselves! I was not shocked that they could create them but was surprised that with how tired we've been they were still in the spirit of getting our once craft station turned into the holiday station.

They have this amazing arts and crafts book that they just love! Such simple and easy how to's for kids. I'm just excited about making that GLAZED POPCORN with them. Yum.

Enjoying the View {#Gator}: Daily Photo

2011-10-09T10:46:00.000-04:00

It's been a minute since I posted the gators outback. There hasn't been as much action as mating season but this little one looked dead from my third floor condo. I attempted to get extremely close to get the skin but scared allie and sure enough she was not dead! enjoy the gorgeous sunday. xo

Don't Step on a Needle

2011-10-08T11:37:00.000-04:00

Our week consist of no sleep hospital stays, x-rays and surgery over a sewing needle! What can I say, my little girls like knitting, sewing and all things girly. With our busy work schedules and school, the girls attend after school programs where Mackenzie is learning to knit. She must have come home from school and got into this kit. It comes with several pretty pink needles and she just may have dropped one on the floor, it got stuck in the carpet and Miss HaniBeans stepped right on it because everything happens to this kid. We had a regular doctors appointment the following day and the doctor said whatever it may be would come out naturally, the body would eventually reject it. So we soaked in Epsom salt all week, she went to school and the following week, I said this thing was not coming out. We had no idea it was a needle at that point but M mentioned dropping one and basically losing it so, off to the er we went. Now it's been in a week and started getting infected, no natural rejections going on here.

Long story short, the hospital stay was overwhelming, restless and I never called off work. Went straight to work without any sleep the night before and did my shifts for the next few days. They owe me a raise, peep peep! Bryan was the one who called off and stayed with his baby girl.

He had full confidence that she would use her crutches. I didn't. Sure enough he calls me at work to tell me she slept til noon the next day, walked out of her bedroom with the crutches and said, "I need to get on the computer." hehe....she's so cute!

Tired, and we all looked like a HOT MESS! that's the joys of parenthood and we live, learn, grow and love stronger than life itself. Hope your week was a blast! xoxo

My Mini Bar

2011-10-03T08:03:00.000-04:00

If you can't be at the bar, bring the bar to you! I don't know how many times I want to grab a drink but can't because we live in such a small condo, the space in our kitchen is limited. I've had this Mike's Hard Lemonade forever. I know; I'm such an alcoholic! The amaretto is getting low and I was just in the mood to create a mini bar for myself. I stole the cutting board from the other side of the counter and placed all those bottles around it and of course threw some glasses in there for easy access! It's perfect, right next to the ice maker!

Fall in Naples, FL

2011-09-30T07:50:00.000-04:00

it's that time of year when we have that nice cool air some days and other days it's still scorching hot but overall the weather is perfect because everyone knows i'm not a freezing cold kinda gal. i love my boots and hoodies (which i do get to wear sometimes throughout the winter here) but i also love no coats and flip flops. did i mention i own very few closed toed shoes? not a lot of those floating around in this gals closet. our tennis courts are just getting an update and the trees here are bliss! love them. HaniBeans loves these bird feeders at her school. She said birds are always hiding in there. Cool Beans! Enjoy the weekend loves. Any plans?! You can find me in le deli;D xoxo

Could this New Vehicle mean Something

2011-09-29T08:33:00.000-04:00

I did not snap a picture of this vehicle to brag because quite frankly there is nothing to brag about. It's a new car to me and since we went for nearly a year with only one car it was a relief to get one. I'm still stuck with a very hot crotch rocket that just sits in our parking space getting no action but the story of trading that in is too long to go into detail, I'll spare you!

Life is Ironic. Something about things that happen to you is really interesting and funny, sometimes silly and weird. When we talked about getting new cars, we discussed getting 2 from the get go. A new small vehicle for Bryan to transport back and forth to work since he drives 95% of the time, a small car would suit him good and the one he wanted was that small black 2 seater that yes he did get! He's getting new things on it already because a man's baby is of course his CAR! He's driving me nuts because he wants to get new stuff like rims and such for mine and I'm like--Hello---I'm a mother with 2 girls, no need. I'm not HOT RODDING.

We did not shop around for cars. At least I did not. Bryan showed me a few online and I said yes, no. This one above was a no. I told him there was no ifs, ands, or buts---get some cars and just deal with whatever afterwards. He did. He stayed until 10pm one night closing the deal. In this economy, the salesman was shocked that he got 2 at the same time. He said a guy was in a few weeks ago with excellent credit and could not get 2. What can I say; my man has had a very good job for quite some time due to his negotiating/sales skills. He was technically the salesman that day. It's also a client of theirs so I guess it's good to "KNOW" people!

Long story short---(sort of); we were headed to Arizona to live, make a life change in the west many years ago, packed our Maroon Isuzu Rodeo, packed a trailer on back with all of our belongings and drove all the way to Oklahoma. Got side swiped in a black ice storm, ramming two cop cars that were on the side of the road at midnight and destroyed our car. If it wasn't as packed as it was and there wasn't a concrete wall saving us from the ditch/frozen water below and the cop jumping over that bank to prevent getting hit by us, we would not be here and neither would he. The guy who caused this horrible accident was never caught. But we are here, still traveled to Arizona and continue to live this beautiful life of ours. Point is. This vehicle we just got that I said no to, because it looked so much like our Rodeo is now mine and my girls are sitting in the back and it brings back so many memories I had in that Rodeo. I feel good when I sit in it because I cried to the Isuzu dealer because I couldn't find one like it after it got totalled and I just have to say that it's very weird, ironic and bitter sweet that without hesitation Bryan picked this car out for my girls and I. I don't think he thought much about our Rodeo but Life is Purposeful and there is a reason why we have it. It could mean that our lives are starting to pick back up again after so much over the years and trust me; if a certain someone side swipes us causing total wreckage, I'm not letting them get away again! xo...oooo.

Pretty Envelopes & Postcards

2011-09-26T08:29:00.001-04:00

It's so important to personalize your touches through packaging! As a business owner, I know how warm it makes someone feel when they receive a package that holds more than the purchased item. Sometimes what's inside the packaging itself means more than the gift! A simple note, a postcard or a card will go a long way.

View all sets by clicking the photos! xoxo

Weekend Inspiration

2011-09-23T07:55:00.002-04:00

I wanted to wish each of you a very lovely weekend! I'm working the entire weekend with totally different hours. The sky here has been so pretty. I took this yesterday morning as I dropped Hannah off. The little moon was so small but so eye catching. I just love this time of year because it cools down a bit, the air no longer feels muggy and you can actually smell a little bit of fresh air. Stay tuned for more scenery here in our town and a taste of my work life, it's rather interesting! xoxo

A Breath Of Fresh Air

2011-09-22T08:40:00.000-04:00

Good Morning Pretty Faces! I have today off and what a breath of fresh air it is! This morning's sunshine is gorgeous and the air isn't as stuffy as it's been. I'm a little sad about all the dragonfly's that died in our condo building, they must have sprayed something yesterday to kill all the bugs and they went down as well! The love bugs are so crazy this time of year, they even come into work with me! Boy does this coffee taste delish. I went yesterday without it and it was so not normal. We're looking for a second car today and getting rid of the motorcycle that gets no action. Southwest Florida hasn't been as friendly as we thought it'd be. He can't enjoy a ride to work without getting sticky, too hot and it's just too much traffic to worry about accidents on it. We've had it for 6 years and it only has 5,000 miles on it, tells you how much we ride it. Bryan wants a 2 seater black hot car and I said go for it! You deserve it and he was worried about the girls not being able to go at the same time but I said we'll figure it out. We always figure things out, so I'm on a crazy busy schedule again from Fri-Sun. This should be fun.

I'm trying to sneak some photos in at work with my phone but I haven't had much luck because it is crazy busy. I promise to update it soon and show you a day in the life of my job duties. I don't know how much I should blog about it because I don't want to be unprofessional in any way, but I'm sure it won't bother anyone that I'm snapping a few pics of Le Job! Stay tuned. How have you been? Hope all is well and you're enjoying the almost weeeeekend. xoxo

Paper Goods: Poppies for Grace

2011-09-21T08:05:00.000-04:00

I found this lovely shop via Creature Comforts and am totally in love! I like how unique and elegant paper products can be.

Be sure to scope out their cards and tags, so so pretty!

It's Our Job.........

2011-09-19T09:12:00.001-04:00

To Protect! Hi dolls. Long time no see, eh!?! I have a tremendously changed schedule and love the idea of something new. It's been hectic to say the least but that's life. I've always been a team player, a leader, sometimes fighter but mostly lover! I am a people person, I love to the point of my heart exploding and when life gives you punches; you fight harder. I am not going to go into full blown discussion about my new job because I don't want to be "Unprofessional" in any way, shape or form. I've had the pleasure of working shifts of all hours and I'm not a fan of the 9-6!

The shifts I love are the shifts with those "Team Players." You know the people you click with and the people you can instantly call friends because they help out, they laugh with you, they crack hilarious jokes and kid with you like you're their little sibling. They pick up and grab a little something because you are busy taking care of customers, you are a "hustler" according to them and they appreciate your hard work and energy. And then. You have one person who says, "hey, new girl....let's do whatever it takes to make your job here suck so you run away!" {secretly}

I get vibes, fakeness and gossipers. I get people who smile in your face and whisper behind your back. I may have glasses but I'm not blind, stupid or someone you can take advantage of. Us "cool kids" all get it. We're classy, HARD workers and fun to be with, around. Those are the people I love and there is no one that can chase me away, there is no one that can make me feel unwelcome. I'm here to do a job successfully, professionally and enjoyably. I'm not going anywhere. I'm not like you. I will pick up after you and do you favors because that's what I'm there for. I will kill you with kindness and show you how much I LOVE this new job and prove to you how long I will be there because never in a million years, i wouldn't have expected to have this job and it's weird how things fall into place but I'm super glad it has come to me! I'm GOOD.

My girls have gone to sleep without mom tucking them in a couple times. They are doing so well with the new changes. Hannah goes to after school program and dad picks her up a few times throughout the week. She gets hurt but is toughing it out. I've learned as my girls get older to let them learn the road of life first hand. They must experience things to learn, to grow and to become beautiful human beings.

I have faith that they will carry out the values and morals I have taught them. A year ago, I would have never accepted a job with fear of worry. I learned as a parent, you cannot worry yourself sick or else you cannot live and love the life you live. You have to have faith and accept the challenges life has. I have that now. I can go to work and know that everything will be {should be} okay.

When I drop Hannah off at the bus stop, I see these two children {siblings} show signs of abuse, neglect, and this little girl was a bully to Hannah last year. She may have a dysfunctional family that causes her to be this way. But when I saw her being hit by her older brother this morning, I stepped out of my car and walked up to him, Hannah by my side and firmly said, "That is NOT acceptable, I don't ever want to see you hit her again and you need to respect. I will not tolerate that kind of behavior." The little girl had tears rolling down her cheek and was doing nothing in return when he kicked her numerous times. I asked her if she was okay and the bus pulled up. I told her to sit up front and Hannah always gets the other front seat. I told the bus driver while the boy walked towards the back of the bus to sit with his head in his lap. He said he would report it and I told him I want him nowhere near my daughter. It's scary because I have no idea what this boy will do because he shows signs of violence. He may do something to Hannah because I said something but we as parents {as human beings} have a job to protect our children, other human beings, our nature and be sure that this type of behavior gets awareness. I called the Principle. She is addressing the child and will take care of it but I don't want him on the bus. It's a scary situation. I'll never fully stop worrying about my children. We just have to hope and speak up. If we fail to protect these children then it ends in heartbreak and I can't live with myself if I saw something and didn't do anything about it. If you see someone being abused, speak up---confront the terrorizer and be brave enough to stand up for what you believe in! There is no greater feeling, I promise. xoxo

Good Morning {and}

2011-09-16T09:17:00.000-04:00

Happy Weekend Lovely friends! I'll be working up a storm. I've been really so tired I can't possibly understand my sitting here at the computer this morning except the school demanded an email stating I needed to give permission for M to go home with a friend today. They never needed a note before. They're weird! But while I'm enjoying this French Vanilla Latte, I figured I'd pop in to see whats happening in your world and to fill you in on my busy schedule. Work is great, although they jipped me 19 hours. I'm totally going in at 11 and telling them to have it fixed by this afternoon and in my bank account! I don't be working for free,...Lately my hours are 3-11 and 11-8 but they are having me do mornings now too...9-6--ew! I dislike mornings. So, I'm totally an all over the schedule worker. Don't mind because I get all kinds of fun shifts thrown in there. The 3-11 is fun when the "Cool Kids" are working, we have a blast and crack up laughing the entire night. It's a very busy job, I barely remember to get a lunch in and that's the only time i go to the bathroom. It's crazy. But indeed interesting to say the least.

Any plans this weekend-I know some of you told me yours already and I hope you have a blast! We'll be catching up soon! Enjoy the lovely day! xoxo

Inspired by Photo Booth Photos

2011-09-14T08:31:00.000-04:00

Rebecca Miller is amazing! Her photography has inspired me to look for a fun photo booth this weekend and let my inner child come out to play again! Any plans for the weekend friends?! xo

Our First Home

2011-09-13T08:30:00.000-04:00

Each time we're in NY, we drive by our old house. It was our first home we purchased together way back when Mackenzie was little. This is the condition it was in and to me it was a mess. Bryan was a landscaper and always had the yard beautiful with gorgeous flowers, nice features around the entire house. It literally brought my heart to break because it's nice to go back to a home you once had and see that the new owners cherish the way you did. But that wasn't the case. The back yard is huge and was so filled with over grown shrub and the old swing set grandma got Mack for her birthday one year was pushed in between it all. I'm not sure about the gate in the front window either. I opened that window each morning and could see everything, it was so pretty. We did so much work on that house and to see it this way was bitter sweet. The memories will always be there and the drive to have our own home again someday is right around the corner---I don't think I'll have it in me to sell and let go of something so dear to me again!

Today......

2011-09-12T14:23:00.000-04:00

I have off from work and I'm embracing the beautiful blue sky, getting caught up on sleep and can't wait to spend the late afternoon with my girls! One of the nice things about my new job is that I work long days/eves but have a couple days off throughout the week to have some us time after school. I'm really enjoying the new atmosphere and community of love at this job. That southern style is all about teaming up to finish your shift, working together to get the job done and passionate about consumers. I've already seen repeated customers and it's nice to know that they enjoy coming back! I'm not gonna lie....it's a really challenging job; you have to be quick, know your stuff and be overly energetic=me;D

So what's new friends?! I hope you had a really nice weekend and this week goes smoothly for you! How's the kids back to school experience been!? Hannah was so upset Friday because she didn't get a snow cone---phfff---that's the least of her problems;D enjoy the week........

Flooding

2011-09-10T09:12:00.000-04:00

Dear friends! Hello there. Hope you are having a nice weekend thus far. If you are in NY or PA, I am sending warm thoughts your way! This photo is much of what these towns look like up there. My goodness I didn't think there was ever gonna be a flood like back in 72 when my mom and her sisters/brothers were swimming, boating down the main streets in NY but it happened again and so many families need your help! Many of my family members in PA/NY lost everything and it breaks my heart to be so far from them! This is a time when everyone needs to come together and donate as much as they possibly can. The Red Cross has thousands of families to feed, shelter and keep warm including small babies and the disabled. If you can, please donate by texting: REDCROSS to 90999 to donate $10 or going to their site directly to help these people.

Bryan's Brother and Uncle are in desperate need. They lost everything. This is something I have NEVER done here on this blog and I'm about to change that. If you feel at all comfortable giving to my family personally-anything would help and I will be sure that the funds go directly towards reparing these families. You can email myself for more information and details at bloglove (at) aol (dot) com

And if you and your family were affected by these floods, please contact me so we can do whatever we can to pull together to help! Much love always---xoxo

Happy Weekend!

2011-09-09T06:37:00.000-04:00

I'm not sure what this guy was thinking when we pulled along the side of the highway in NY. But he and his friends were pretty dern interesting. I'll share more of the photos from our New York trip {i know i'm such a procrastinator} it's long over due, so i'll get on with it. For now, enjoy the weekend and get that nasal spray--sinusitis is horrible this time of year.

Daily Inspiration: Colorful Art

2011-09-08T08:06:00.000-04:00

Kirra Jamison is simply amazing! I hope you are all having a really nice week thus far---weekend's just about here and I'm working! It's nice to be busy, ehh?! xoxo

Modern Love

2011-09-07T08:03:00.000-04:00

I'm a sucker for all things Vintage and Modern. I just love the coziness of a little shop that displays the love with ease!

Modern Love has inspired me to have an office like this. I love the open-ness, the brightness and the mixture of vintage goods with today's pretty things!

The girls are itching to get out of this small condo and ready to have a play/reading room. I'm anxious to start looking for homes. It's been a long time since I've been able to decorate and I'm so so ready.

Click the Pics to Go to Modern Love

Breakfast and BusyNess!

2011-09-06T08:07:00.000-04:00

I've been up early since Saturday and orientation was good, boring but now it's out of the way and i officially started the job yesterday! it was nice. holy busy and definitely a new atmosphere. i learned so much these past few days it's near incredible. i can't tell you how amazing it felt to get into the car, take off with my iced coffee in tow and show up bright and early to my destinations! I'm a very prompt, professional busy body, so don't underestimate the power of this woman. I mean, I literally tore some heads off and was very much thanked for it. If you're not being professional or respectful, I'll let you know! The instructor asked 3 times for everyone to be quiet and after that I just said very firmly, "Alright, enough....she asked three times for you to be quiet and you need to respect that!" Some kid yelled out, "She's gonna be a manager." She thanked me like 3 times. I'm just all about respecting and being professional and it's uncalled for when you're not. Some girl was sleeping all three days, she finally got kicked out. I mean really---most people would kill to have a job like this!

So that was my weekend. Busy. Busy. The girls were sick with colds. Hannah has a specialist appointment this morning and we've switched her doctor for unprofessional reasons as well. Crazy life stuff going on here! But I do Miss you loves...and thank you so much for my comments...You're all so very AWESOME! xoxoxo

I Got The J-O-B!!

2011-09-02T08:21:00.001-04:00

Mama has been working inside the home for 10 years friends. With the girls back to school and no one home throughout the day, I thought it was best to just get out there and tackle the world again! I went on the spur of the moment, expecting nothing and received everything. I was called the same day I placed my application with them, interviewed that Thursday and Hired on the Spot. I just finished my paper work and start orientation on Saturday. It's a fabulous company that has never had a layoff {EVER} and you stay within the company whether you want to transfer or go to another department. It couldn't have come at a better time. I'm looking forward to being busy, making more friends and succeeding in the work atmosphere once again.

How about you--what is going on in your neck of the woods?! xoxo

My New Design Makeover + Giveaway

2011-09-01T11:51:00.002-04:00

Dear Pretties, Mervi from My Best Friend Jules is the one who created this prettyful design for me and she's giving one of her amazing full blog design makeovers away to one lucky winner! I've also included an ad space for the month of October on FTLOB to go along with this, so don't pass up this awesome deal! You'll be in total aw of her work---I promise!

Are you in the market for a new design? You should def. have Mervi do yours! xoxo

Enter Here

Liquor Cart

2011-09-01T08:03:00.000-04:00

I'm thinking a nice liquor cart right in my living area would be nice, eh?! What can I get you ma'am....sir?!

Happy Day Friends, xoxo

Baby, It's a Boy

2011-08-31T17:35:00.000-04:00

Yes! We're having a boy! Not we as in Bryan and Me,.....We as in My good friend and her hubs are expecting a little boy and I'm so happy for them! There is nothing better than the experience of being a parent and I can't wait for them to share the love and bond with their new little bundle of joy. Congrats Anne and Tim, may this journey be everything and more you so deserve.... xoxo

Completely Unfinished

2011-08-31T08:22:00.001-04:00

blog//twitter//shop

I ♥ Chesterrific

2011-08-30T09:28:00.001-04:00

blog:twitter

Bed & Breakfast, Vineyards and Winery-Oh My!

2011-08-29T07:09:00.000-04:00

My dear pretties! Can you believe I have never been to a wine tasting, a winery or anything related. My 31 years of life is def. missing something here, so when I seen this feature on Hilary's blog I said I must re-feature! I just love these adventures and need to really get my tush in gear!

These old rustic cob web catching displays just put me in a pretty place! Don't you love antiques. I'm only a wine lover if I mix it up with one of my famous concoctions.

A bed and breakfast is always something I've craved! This is Peggy's and it surely looks amazing.

Good food and company is always a pleasure! Charming comfort is a totally warming welcome. Feeling right at home.

How often do you get away to such great places?!

You can find more details and photos here, here and here! xoxo

Happy Sundae

2011-08-28T08:46:00.000-04:00

This is so not right for me to post-it's totally sinful especially on a Sunday friends!

Dulce de Leche & Chocolate Waffle Cone Ice Cream

Vanilla Ice Cream base by David Lebovitz

1 cup whole milk
Pinch of salt
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
5 large egg yolks
2 cups heavy cream
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
2 waffle cones
1 1/2 oz. bittersweet chocolate, chopped
1 tsp canola oil
1 can (13.5 oz.) dulce de leche – you’ll only use half

In a medium saucepan, heat whole milk, salt, and sugar until very warm. Remove from heat. Scrape out the seeds out of the vanilla bean with a small, sharp knife. Mix the seeds and the pod into the milk, cover, and let sit for 1 hour.

In a medium bowl, whisk egg yolks. Reheat the milk mixture and gradually pour about 1/4 of it into the egg yolks, whisking constantly. Pour the egg yolk mixture into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture and set it over low to medium-low heat. Stir continuously until the mixture forms a custard until it is thick enough to coat a spatula or the back of a metal spoon.

Make a water bath by filling a large bowl with cold water and ice. Set a medium bowl into the water bath. Place a strainer in the top bowl and pour heavy cream through the strainer. Pour the egg mixture through the strainer and stir until it is cool (it should still be sitting over the water bath). Stir in vanilla extract. Remove the vanilla bean. Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours.

Pour the custard mixture into an ice cream maker and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
While the ice cream is processing, break waffle cones into 3/4-inch pieces and lay on a piece of parchment or wax paper on a baking sheet. Combine chocolate it with canola oil in a microwave-proof bowl. Heat at 50% power until the chocolate is melted, stirring every 15 seconds. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the waffle cones and refrigerate until the chocolate is set.

Spoon dulce de leche in a small bowl and microwave until pourable.

Once the ice cream is finished processing, transfer it to a freezer-proof container. Gently mix in the chocolate-covered waffle pieces and the dulce de leche. Freeze until solid. Scoop and serve.
Makes about 1 quart.

Printable Recipe

Enjoy! Happy Sundae

Daily Inspiration

2011-08-27T07:06:00.000-04:00

I hope you not only climb mountains, I hope you move them too! xoxo

{click the photo to go to the artwork}

Sounds of Laughter

2011-08-26T15:03:00.001-04:00

Blog:Twitter

Wonder ♥ Forest

2011-08-26T12:45:00.001-04:00

.....and this morning

2011-08-26T08:15:00.000-04:00

Accidental Friendship

2011-08-25T08:05:00.000-04:00

Before You Move on to this Lovely Feature allow me to

Explain the Title of this Post

I'll be completely honest. I wasn't in the market for new friends. I mean, this is the busiest time of my life and I have been secretly stalking your blogs without leaving comments or even responding to your comments here via email, returned comment love, etc....I'm just too busy to log into the damn account to leave a comment--yeah I suck! But I do really enjoy my friends and checking in with you often--even if you think I'm not, I am. Running FTLOB requires a lot of blog stalking where I stumbled upon Accidental Encounters. {if you like to be stalked, you'll be sure to get that accomplished by not only myself but thousands of bloggers}In either case, I fell in love with her and her sweet personality. I featured her Vintage Tea Party and keep stalking all her macaroon posts! Do you ever find friends accidentally? They're the best ones;D here she is---

//More Links//

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Music in my ♥

2011-08-24T08:29:00.001-04:00

Last week, I received this Ah-Mazing CD from my friend Chantilly. She has the sweetest voice and is so real in her lyrics! I love her, so I know you will too! She's just A-W-E-S-O-M-E! Have you heard her songs?

Be One of a Kind in the Garden

2011-08-23T12:11:00.000-04:00

Be One of a Kind//Sponsor Love Feature

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BLOG+SHOP+TWITTER+FACEBOOK+DESIGNS
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One of a Kind

Get 50% off Everything in the Garden of Eden Shop-Hurry, you don't want to Miss these Deals!!

a little Love with a Taste of T

2011-08-23T06:54:00.001-04:00

-I work from 8pm to Midnight when everyone is sleeping.
-I use my ipod as a phone and rarely use my real cellphone. (Skype baby)
-I just went vegetarian!!

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Stay Tuned for More Love from My Pretty Sponsors//Friends
Starting Today, I will no longer be taking paid sponsorship-My ads will be free or swapped {Contact Me for Further Details}Depending on the requests that do come in they will either stay on the sidebar or move to my pretties page. Thank you all for your sincere friendships. Have a nice day.

Paper Pads

2011-08-22T07:00:00.001-04:00

I keep getting all kinds of paper supplies at whatever store I happen to be at. I love paper pads, journals, sticky notes, etc.. You can never have too much, right? I mean the girls and I doodle all the time. I just like looking at them too. They're nice and sweet! and you can leave little notes for each other.

{click the photos to go to the source}

So Hannah went to school today! She is so excited and was in very high spirits when meeting her teacher last week. {we finally found the 'right' teacher (long story)} And she's in a totally different mode this year! Let's hope it's all good to go. She wrote her teacher a lovely little note that said:

"Dear Mrs. D...I hope you have a nice first day of school, Love Hannah."

except her F in OF was backwards ;D

and she gave her a handmade key chain---too lovely for words!

Have your kids gone back to school and do y'all love to write notes back and forth?! Isn't it the best;D xoxo

8 Things: Maps and Globes

2011-08-19T11:55:00.001-04:00

via

8 things I'm really loving is maps, globes, making words out of scrabble pieces and more maps, globes and all things made out of them. I have to purchase every little globe in Target, Thrift stores, etc. TJmaxx and Marshalls have the best unique household decor items ever! I can spend hours in there.

I mean you can even make a pinwheel out of a map;D How clever! or how about a coaster{which i'm insanely obsessed with too} click on the pics to go to the sources

A Grateful Heart Map----we all need to be reminded of the L-♥-V-E

Globe Ornaments and Pretty Jewelry

what about you. are you insanely in love with globes and maps, if not what are you in love with this friday♥

also linking up with:

Coffee Talk

Smart and Trendy Moms

Thanks Mail Carrier

Have a Super Fab Weekend