Persnickety Peacock

It's So Very Creative at It's So Very Cheri

Just Something I Whipped Up Monday at The Girl Creative

I Made the World Cuter Today at Making the World CUTER

Made By You Mondays at Skip to my Lou

Tuesday's Garden Party at An Oregon Cottage

Sharing Ideas Wednesday at The Trendy Treehouse

Be Inspired at Room to Inspire

Works for Me Wednesday at We are THAT Family

Idea Sharin' Wednesday at Women Who Do it All

Get Your Craft on at Life as Lori

I'm Lovin it Friday at Tidy Mom

Plan a Punkin Seed at Punkin Seed Productions

You should stop on by and see what else I have!!

I'm Back...

2010-07-14T00:54:00.000-04:00

Have you wondered what happened to me?

Well, not to make you jealous - but this was where I went...

Using www.bookit.com, I discovered Punta Cana...

My vacation...hotel, flight, all meals, and all drinks was cheaper than just housing in Florida...

I planned a two week vacation, but I came home a week early. I anticipated analyzing my dissertation data, but the software wouldn't work on my computer. Plus, www.weather.com predicted a week of rain. I couldn't justify wasting a week of not working on my dissertation to just be sitting in my room.

So, I enjoyed this exact location (the majority of my trip). I read two books, 4 magazines, and wrote 16 pages of my dissertation. I was diligent and tried relaxing.

Isn't it pathetic that I had a hard time relaxing? That is definitely not me.

I start my job in two weeks, and I am extremely anxious about having as much of my dissertation finished as absolutely possible.

So, maybe one day I'll get back to Punta Cana, but for now I'm headed to the office tomorrow for some serious data analysis.

Blog Swap with A Vision to Remember

2010-07-02T10:00:00.000-04:00

I am so excited to be Blog Swapping today with Alyssa! Doesn't she have such a cute blog?!?

I am the author of A Vision to Remember. I also have my own etsy shop, where I sell many of my creations. I am a stay at home mom of 2 awesome girls and one dog. They are my inspiration for sure. Everything that I have made has been for them in some way.

Here are a couple of things that I have made over at my blog:

I love making rag quilts. I sell many in my etsy shop, but this pattern is available for download on my blog here.

This was a fun pleated headband that I made for myself (one of the few times that I craft for myself, if you know what I mean :)

I also made this fun Ribbon skirt for my daughter (Part 1, Part 2)

I also have many other tutorials on my blog. Make sure to stop by and check them out.

I also have my own Etsy shop. There I sell rag quilts, car seat tents, and lots of patterns. Some of the patterns I sell are rag quilts, belly band, and fabric flowers.

Peach Mellow

Image was borrowed from here

Ingredients:
1 package small marshmallows
1/2 cup milk
1 pint of whipping cream
1/3 cup butter
graham crackers (crushed) you need enough to cover the bottom of your pan
Peaches

Melt the marshmallows and milk in the microwave. Then place in fridge to cool down. Whip the whipping cream until peaks form.

Melt the butter and add to the graham crackers and squish onto the bottom of to make a nice crust.

Peel and slice the peaches and place on top of the crackers (there really is no set amount just however many you would like.

When the marshmallow mixture is cooled then add the whipping cream and fold together.
Then pour over the top of the peaches.

The above picture is one I borrowed from a website, and if you did not notice the items are in a different order. It really would not matter either way. Also if you have extra graham crackers you can sprinkle over the top of your marshmallow mixture.

Today I made some of this dessert, but I did not have any graham crackers so I crushed chocolate covered flake cereal. It was delicious. This recipe would also work with other fruits. So give it a try

If you love to cook then I am looking for contributors for a 30 day Food Challenge. For the month of August I will be making 30 different meals and none of them the same. If you want to join it let me know. More details can be found right here

Thanks again for swapping blogs with me and make sure to stop by tomorrow and link up to Check ME Out Saturday Link Party Have a great day!

Daddy's Day

2010-06-18T22:33:00.001-04:00

Like many American families, I'll be celebrating Father's Day with my family on Sunday. This is the first year I can remember where we have celebrated on the actual holiday. Years ago, we celebrated Father's Day in October. With Dad's insane schedule, it was the first time everyone in our family could get together.

I've struggled to come up with a gift this year. Being that I deemed this year, "The Year of the Handmade Gift," I knew I had to come up with something creative. However, that is hard when it comes to Dad.

Aiming to mark off items on his "bucket list," Dad recently purchased two cows. Bare in mind that we (my entire family lives within a 2 mile radius) live in a suburb of Atlanta...far from farms and cattle. He loves coming home at night, changing into his blue jeans (which I didn't even know he owned), and walking over to give them their nightly treat of sweet feed.

I happened to be out of town the night the cows arrived. However, it was a family and neighborhood affair as everyone watched the two cows (named by him...Molly and Polly) investigate their new home. My sister-in-law uploaded pictures of the cows' (who by the way are pregnant...or bred if you are using farm language) arrival. When I saw the picture below of Dad, I immediately knew I would use it for his Father's Day Gift.

I quickly remembered that I had a similar picture of my grandfather (Dad's daddy) with a cow too.

So, I changed both photos to black and white and found a double sided frame that I weathered to make look older too. The picture of PawPaw (my grandfather) was very faded and only had orange coloring remaining, so the chance worked well for it.

I think Dad will love it. I know he really misses his parents, so this will be a good remembrance for him

Good News, Good News!

2010-06-16T13:24:00.000-04:00

As many of you know, I've been job searching over the past six to eight months. Because I'm not finishing my dissertation until December, I limited my search to the "perfect" job (which of course must be in Georgia because I am certainly staying near my family). In fact, you may recall in March, I turned down an offer at a great place, and I haven't talked much about the search since then.

Well, I have good news...make that great news.

This morning I accepted an offer as an assistant professor at North Georgia College and State University. I had my first interview (via the phone) three weeks ago (while I was at the beach). Last week, I followed up with an on-campus visit and a teaching demonstration. Although I loved the faculty and felt like it was a great fit, I was nervous about not finishing my dissertation because of the new responsibilities. Well, wouldn't you know...they sensed my anxieties.

Yesterday, I received a phone call asking if I would be more interested in working part-time during the fall (until I finish my dissertation) and come on board full-time in January.

I'm blown away how everything has fallen into place.

The pictures I included are all of the campus. North Georgia is in Dahlonega (about an hour) from my house. The area and campus are gorgeous. The town is adorable, even with a downtown square in walking distance from the university.

Three of my favorite aspects of the job are...(1) the faculty that is so supportive and interested in working together for the benefit of the students, (2) the program is a dual-certification program (so, I'll get to help general education teachers prepare for the diversity that exists within classrooms in the 21st century)...and (2) the university has an ENORMOUS study-abroad program!

I'm so excited...as if you can't tell. I will know more in the coming weeks (like what classes I'll teach in the fall), but until then...there is one heck of a celebration going on in Marietta!

Rosemary and Oregano Chicken

2010-06-13T19:15:00.004-04:00

This is definitely one of my favorite recipes! Yummy, yummy, yummy. Here is a quick tutorial and a digital recipe card that you can download, print, and add to your collection. I hope you enjoy!

Purchase these ingredients.

Place chicken and potatoes and chicken in a large dish.

Add olive oil, making sure to coat the chicken and potatoes.

Sprinkle chicken and potatoes with rosemary, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Bake at 375 degrees for one hour.

I added a mixed green salad from my garden.

Pair with a delicious wine.

Yummy, yummy, goodness.

Click HERE to download the recipe card.

I'm posting a link to this post on the following sites:
Tempt My Tummy Tuesday is hosted by Blessed With Grace.
Delicious Dishes is hosted by It's a Blog Party
Tuesday Tastes is hosted by Crazy Jayz Place
Homemaker Mondays is hosted by 11th Heaven’s Homemade Haven.
Tasty Tuesday is hosted by Balancing Beauty & Bedlam.
Works for Me Wednesday is hosted by We Are THAT Family
Tip Me Tuesday is hosted by Tip Junkie
Tackle it Tuesday is hosted by 5 Minutes for Mom
Sharing Ideas Wednesday is hosted by The Trendy Treehouse
Friday Food is hosted by Mom Trends
Friday Foodie is hosted by Designs by Gollum
Finer Things Friday is hosted by Amy's Finer Things
I'm Lovin It Fridays is hosted by Tidy Mom
Show off Your Stuff Thursday is hosted by Fireflies and Jellybeans
Tuesday's Garden Party at Oregon Cottage

WANTED: Blog Swap

2010-06-08T21:10:00.000-04:00

Hi Everyone!

I'm interested in scheduling several blog swaps over the next couple of months. If you're interested, please post a comment below or shoot me an email. Here are some ideas of post topics that I think would mesh well with the Persnickety Peacock...

Recipes

Crafts

Tutorials

Decorating Ideas

Garden Tips

Hope you'll join me in this fun swap!

Week 6 Garden Update

2010-06-07T03:16:00.000-04:00

My garden is growing like crazy!

I've already made mental notes of what I plan to change next year. For example, my tomato plants are shading other plants. So, next year I'm planning to put them alone in a long and skinny raised bed.

My blueberry bushes are finally growing! I'm still planning to make a few changes to help encourage their growth, but I haven't had a chance yet.

I harvested a large bounty this week. My sister took several things (parsley, rosemary, 1 green pepper, 2 green tomatoes) home after her girls picked them out the garden.

My sister is planning to make fried green tomatoes on Wednesday...and create a guest post...right, Allison? Now that it is in print...you're held accountable!

Garden Slip Up

2010-06-06T00:50:00.000-04:00

Yesterday my oldest nieces came over to help work in my garden. They've been eager to pick anything and everything they see growing. So, when my sister needed to make a quick trip to the grocery store, I figured they could help me pick a few veggies, pull some weeds, and water the garden.

Well, being that I'm quite a novice gardener, I thought the carrots were ready to come out of the ground. So, we dug down into the ground and pulled out these babies.

Obviously, the carrots need a little longer in the ground. So, much to the girls' dismay...we left the remainder in the ground.

Blog Swap with Kaysi from Keeping it Simple

2010-06-04T00:00:00.001-04:00

Hello everyone! I am super excited to be here with you today!! Alyssa is super creative and has a lot of fun stuff at her blog, I just love the name of it, so creative!!

Let me introduce myself, I'm Kaysi

from Keeping It Simple.

Here are a few things about me:

I am the mother of three boys, ages 5, 3 and 1

I have been married to an amazing man for 6 years

I love chocolate!!

I love color, green is my favorite but brown and blue are up there

I like to keep things simple, not overdo them

When I get a spare moment, I love to craft or look at crafts

Each day of the week, I have something different.

Motivate me Monday, that's where I have link party and you get to show me all the cute things that you have done.

Tutorial Tuesday, I give a tutorial of a craft that I have done

Whatever Wednesday, this is my day that I put anything up.

Scrapbook Thursday, this is the day that I post a scrapbook idea or give a scrapbook tip

Fridays are the days that I do Blog swaps with other bloggers.

Here are a few things that you can see at my blog:

Dying Leather

Pants turned into aprons

Reversible Skirt

Decoration

Scrapbook ideas

Spiderman Room

Thanks Alyssa for doing this swap with me, it's been fun!

Update...

2010-06-02T22:38:00.001-04:00

Do you ever feel like you're spread too thin? Well, that is what I feel like on a regular basis! What annoys me even more is that when everything needs attention at once, my blog is what is put on hold.

Let me explain why I've been away...

About a month ago, I presented my dissertation prospectus (chapters 1-3) to my committee of four professors. They ask you questions, provide insight, and make suggestions regarding your study. Once they approve, you submit your proposal to the university to get permission to begin collecting data. Well, I held my meeting and received permission from my committee to move forward...exciting! At the conclusion of the meeting, we set a date for my dissertation defense, and the current plan remains for me to graduate in December...now if I can only find a job!

The following week, I spent a 6 days in the lovely North Georgia Mountains at Amicalola Falls. I wish this was a relaxing getaway, but instead I sat on the back porch of a cabin typing away. Every year, a professor at the University of Georgia hosts a writing retreat. About 15 doctoral students spend their days and nights working towards a self-imposed goal (mine was to create a draft of a manuscript I've had on my to-do list for way too long). This was my second writing retreat, so I knew it would be intense. I can't complain much because (1) I made the choice to go, and (2) albeit extremely insane it is the most beneficial experience for me as a graduate student. Oftentimes, the PhD world can be somewhat isolated. Everyone is working on their program of study (that they create independently) or their dissertation (that they create independently). In turn, you frequently feel like you're floating along all by your lonesome self. The week away with grad students grounds you in the reality that there are many others feeling the same way you are, with the same apprehensions and anxieties, worried and stressed about the same insecurities. So, although it was a long week...it was great!

After being home for only four days, I hopped in the car with my sister and her three girls (5 years old and under) and headed to the beach. With all the kids and their stuff, we have to take 2 cars. My sister and I enjoy the ride together (with me getting up and handling situations with the kids). Her husband leads the way, windows down and listening to music...we get a little envious when the kids are screaming! Anyway, I'm here at the beach...trying to enjoy a non-vacation with three wee ones.

In the meantime, I received permission from the University of Georgia to begin collecting data for my dissertation. That is exciting. I disseminated phase one of my research yesterday, and I am like an annoying child checking to see how many people have responded to the survey...every 10 seconds. Can you tell my livelihood rides on this stinkin' study? Good thing I like it!

So, there is the update. I have quite a few blog posts running in my head, and I've lined up some blog swaps (and am in search of more) for the coming weeks.

Thanks for staying tuned...even while I'm crazy trying to swim upstream.

Week 5 Garden Update

2010-05-21T21:53:00.000-04:00

I'm amazed at how much my garden grew this week! In fact, I had to stake the tomatoes and beans. You can even see my middle tomato plant (back row) already fell over. Luckily, I got it staked before the plant broke.

I have a fun, new recipe to try with some of my harvest this week.

My blueberry bushes are struggling. What should I be doing to make them grow? Help, please!

Week 4 Garden Update...a few days late

2010-05-17T14:22:00.000-04:00

Every morning when I walk out to water my garden, I get a little giddy. I know this is ridiculous, but I can't help it. I've never in my life been able to keep anything alive (mainly because I forget the important part of watering). So, the fact that not only are my plants alive but they're flourishing, is a little too much for me to handle some days.

Here are last week's photos. I'll post this week's photos later in the week.

Photo of the Week

2010-05-12T00:00:00.001-04:00

It is no secret how much I love my Atlanta Braves. This is actually the first season in YEARS that we haven't had season tickets. The past several years have been super special as my five year old nephew has learned the nation's pastime and developed his own passion and love for the game. This photos is from last season (before Francoeur was traded to the Mets). My brother Harlan carried Will to one of the season's game. I love this picture. It is the epitome of America...love it!

Now if we can just get the Bravos back on a winning streak!

Garden Markers Tutorial

2010-05-11T03:10:00.001-04:00

Yesterday I blogged about my fun garden markers I created. Well, today, I thought I'd create a tutorial in case some of you wanted to make some too.

Materials: (1) wooden kitchen spoons, (2) spray paint, (3) pictures of fruit and veggies in your garden - I labeled mine before printing, (4) Mod Podge, (5) foam brush, and (6) polyurethane sealer.

Step 1: Spray paint wooden spoons. I purchased mine at Wal-mart. They came in a set of five or six for about $2.

Step 2: Using a foam brush, apply pictures to spoons. Add several coats of Mod Podge.

Step 3: Spray polyurethane sealer.

Step 4: Label your garden.

Happy Gardening!

See more tutorials at Hope Studios.

Garden Markers

2010-05-10T15:23:00.002-04:00

Several weeks ago, I discovered some great spoon garden markers. So, I created a post asking for suggestions of how to adapt them since I don't have metal stamps. Thanks to several suggestions and a few ideas of my own, I came up with these lovelies.

I used wooden spoons and made them weather resistant.

Tomorrow I'll post a tutorial on how to create cute garden markers like these.

Linking up to:

The DIY Project Parate at The DIY Showoff

It's So Very Creative at It's So Very Cheri

Just Something I Whipped Up Monday at The Girl Creative

I Made the World Cuter Today at Making the World CUTER

Made By You Mondays at Skip to my Lou

Tuesday's Garden Party at An Oregon Cottage
Make It Yours at My Backyard Eden

Sharing Ideas Wednesday at The Trendy Treehouse

Be Inspired at Room to Inspire

Works for Me Wednesday at We are THAT Family

Idea Sharin' Wednesday at Women Who Do it All

Get Your Craft on at Life as Lori

I'm Lovin it Friday at Tidy Mom

Plan a Punkin Seed at Punkin Seed Productions

Tuesday Garden Party at Oregon Cottage

Week 3 Garden Update

2010-05-06T00:00:00.006-04:00

I'm amazed at how much has grown and sprouted this week. Every morning when I go out to water the beds, I'm greeted with new seedlings. It is so exciting!

Some of my lovely seedlings...

My blueberry bushes...

Garden Deliciousness

2010-05-05T00:26:00.002-04:00

Tonight, I made my first meal using ingredients from my garden. Because my fruits and veggies are still in the newborn stage, I decided to use some of my herbs to create one of my favorite dishes.

Using this recipe, I created homemade pesto. This was my first attempt at pesto, and I hope to get better at making it as I create it more often. It was delicious, but it could certainly be even better.

Using this recipe, I created one of my favorite chicken pasta dishes. However, my sister-in-law shared some left over flank steak, so I substituted it for the chicken. It was wonderful, and the best part is I have tons of leftovers in the fridge.

Also, I used my grandmother's mixing bowls. Unfortunately, the picture doesn't do them justice. They are beautiful.

Linking to:

Robin Egg Wreath Tutorial

2010-05-04T00:00:00.002-04:00

This weekend, I put together a Robin Egg Wreath. It literally took about 5 minutes, so I'm slightly embarrassed to create a tutorial. However, I'm going to give it a whirl.

Step 1: Collect the following materials (plain wreath, one strand of fake flowers, zip ties, fake bird nest, fake robin eggs, glue gun, and scissors).

Step 2: Using the zip ties, attach one end of the strand of fake flowers to the wreath. Twist the remaining end around the rest of the wreath, and secure the second end with another zip tie.

Step 3: Trim the zip ties.

Step 4: Attach the bird nest by sliding the zip tie underneath part of the nest and securing it to the wreath. I attached the nest over the other zip ties I already used to attach the fake flowers. This helped to hide all the zip ties.

Step 5: Trim away the zip tie.

Step 6: Hot glue the robin eggs to the nest.

Step 7: Hang on your front door and enjoy your new wreath.

See more tutorials at the Tuesday Tutorial Party at Hope Studios.

Robin Egg Wreath

2010-05-02T23:17:00.009-04:00

This weekend I put together a new wreath for my front door. I had an idea of a citrus themed wreath, but when I stumbled upon several items at Michael's I decided to go another direction.

Come back tomorrow for an easy tutorial on how to make this Robin Egg Wreath.

Linking up to:

The DIY Project Parate at The DIY Showoff

It's So Very Creative at It's So Very Cheri

Just Something I Whipped Up Monday at The Girl Creative

I Made the World Cuter Today at Making the World CUTER

Made By You Mondays at Skip to my Lou
DIY Day at A Soft Place to Land
Get Your Craft On at Today's Creative Blog
Toot Your Horn Tuesday at Silly Little Sparrow
Trash to Treasure Tuesday at Reinvented
Talented Tuesday at My Frugal Family
Tip Me Tuesday at Tip Junkie
Make It Yours at My Backyard Eden
Look What I Made at Creations by Kara
Show and Tell at Blue Cricket Designs
Penny Pinching Party at The Thrifty Home
Sharing Ideas Wednesday at The Trendy Treehouse
Whatever Goes Wednesday at Someday Crafts
Be Inspired at Room to Inspire
Works for Me Wednesday at We are THAT Family
Idea Sharin' Wednesday at Women Who Do it All
Strut Your Stuff Thursday at Somewhat Simple
Transformation Thursday at Shabby Chic Cottage
Thrifty Thursday at Tales of Bloggeritaville
Get Your Craft on at Life as Lori
Frugalicious Friday at Finding Fabulous
I'm a Creative Cat at Poppies at Play
Remodelaholics Anonymous
Show and Tell Friday at Romantic Home
I'm Lovin it Friday at Tidy Mom
Frugal Friday at The Shabby Nest
Friday Fun Finds at KoJo Designs
Spring has Sprung at Fun to Craft
Plan a Punkin Seed at Punkin Seed Productions
Saturday Night Special at Funky Junk's Interiors
Check Me Out Saturdays at A Vision to Remember

Dreaming...

2010-05-01T00:13:00.000-04:00

Can you tell I'm a little behind?

Reading magazines is one of my favorite relaxing activities. This stack proves I need some relaxation time...maybe once that dissertation is finished I'll get to them.

Feature Friday

2010-04-30T00:01:00.000-04:00

One of my favorite blogs is entitled Kisses from Katie. The blog features Katie, a young twenty something woman, who uprooted her life to follow God's direction. She is a mother of 14 young girls in Uganda. She left a loving family and boyfriend to do what many of us would never considering...even when God is pushing. She details her experiences and the difficulties of many of her neighbors. It is amazing to see her work and that of God's in such a needy place.

I encourage you to check out her blog. I will warn you; however, you'll spend hours wanting to know more, wondering how she does it, and shedding tears for the people she works with on a daily basis.

Last week, Katie posted about a group of women who are working to overcome their slum living environment and provide food and a better life for their children. They've learned to make gorgeous paper bead necklaces and are selling them through the 147 Million Orphan web-site.

Regardless if you're buying or not (even though they'd make fabulous gifts), please take a minute to check out 147 million orphans and Katie's blog and the unbelievable work she is doing on a daily basis.

Week 2 Garden Update

2010-04-26T12:51:00.002-04:00

As I've previously mentioned, I just returned from a conference in Nashville. I was most excited about returning to my dogs, but a close second was my garden. I know what you're thinking...that girl has fallen off the deep end. Don't worry, I'm thinking the same exact thing!

I came home yesterday and took my weekly photo. I was excited to see some fun new seedlings sprouting. Also, I've begun planning the first dish/food item from my garden...more on that later.

Here are some photos of my seedlings...

and my two pumpkins keeping guard over the garden.

Sewing Machine Sadness

2010-04-24T23:39:00.000-04:00

Sadly, the day has come. I broke my sewing machine...my first ever machine! Do you hear the angst in my voice? I cannot believe it. I took it into my local sewing shop, and it is $89.95 for the technician to even take a look at it (the older women that work at the store took a peek, but they weren't able to fix it). Considering I only spent $100 on it, I decided to bring it back home and lay it to rest.

So, I need your help. I want to get a new one, and now that I know how to sew I'm willing to spend a little more.

What are your recommendations?

I'll Fly Away

2010-04-24T02:04:00.000-04:00

I arrived in Nashville on Wednesday. I'm here for work/school (to present at a conference), but I'm squeezing in plenty of fun too.

Tonight, I took the historical trip to the Grand Ole' Opry. Honestly, I hadn't plan to go, but once I saw that Pam Tillis and the Charlie Daniels Band were scheduled...I was definitely going.

After a standing ovation for the Devil Went Down to Georgia, Charlie Daniels sang I'll Fly Away. This was my grandfather's favorite song, and not a time goes by that I don't think of him when I hear it. Well, tonight was no different. I sat in the crowded audience, eyes closed, and tears rolling down my face.

Such a special night.

Labeling the Garden

2010-04-20T00:12:00.000-04:00

So, you saw the pictures of my lovely new garden...now just praying it grows!

Anyway, I really want to find a way to label each square. Tonight, I was scrolling through Google Reader, and I noticed this amazing post on the blog Craft.

There is an etsy store which has them, but they only carry spices. I love the idea, but I certainly don't have the metal stamps to create my own.

Any ideas??

Square Foot Gardening

2010-04-19T17:46:00.000-04:00

Have you heard of square foot gardening?

My brother and his now 5 year old son began gardening with two raised bed gardens over two years ago. Honestly, no member of our family has a green thumb, so I figure if my brother can do it...so can I!

So, on his recommendation I purchased this book...

After a lot of reading, planning, and researching I finally decided to try it. I (with the help of a friend) planted two 6x6 garden boxes worth of seeds and plants yesterday. Here are pictures of my two boxes.

I'll upload pictures soon with details of what is in each square foot grid.

Buttoned Up Giveaway

2010-04-15T00:36:00.000-04:00

Initially, I planned to wait until I had 100 followers for my first giveaway; however, tonight I made the cutest rings...and I just couldn't resist sharing the wealth.

Today while at Michaels, I ran across some adorable and inexpensive (I won't tell you how much since I'm giving one away) coordinating buttons. While I was looking over the collection, I remembered the new craze of button jewelry that I see everywhere. Have you noticed the trend?

Well, remember this tutorial...

See where I'm going with this?

I had such a hard time deciding on which buttons I liked best, that I ended up with six rings...way too many for me. Take a peak below (and find out how to get one for yourself).

SIZZLING SUMMER

SWEET SPRING

HIPPITY HOPPITY HAPPY

TRENDY TUXEDO

FALL FUN

ARTSY ARGYLE

So, I decided to give one (or maybe two) away.

Here are the ways you can enter to win the ring of your choice. Please make a separate comment for each of the three opportunities.

1. Make a comment below including which ring you would choose.

2. Become a follower of this blog (or tell me in a separate comment that you are already a follower).

3. Blog, Facebook, or Twitter about the giveaway and include the link in your comment.

The giveaway ends at midnight (EST) Sunday, April 18th. I'll announce the winner on Monday, April 19th. Good luck, and I hope you enjoy!

Mantel

2010-04-10T23:41:00.001-04:00

Me: But Mom...where am I going to hang my stockings?

This was part of the conversation I vividly remember having with my mom. Honestly, what does a girl do without a mantel? Well, I'll tell you! Her parents give her a fake one for Christmas. This fake mantel is on the wall in my master bedroom. I can light some "stuff" to make it look like there is a fire, but in my 7 years in this house, I've never done it!

What I have done with the mantel is decorate it. In fact, I created this beauty over the past month.

Linking up to the Nester's Mantel Party

MIA...

2010-04-10T23:18:00.000-04:00

Have you wondered where I've been for the past week? I promised to finish my office organization posts, and then...MIA

Yup! I've never had a yard sale before, but when my best friend suggested it...I jumped on board.

If you've ever had a yard sale, you know what I'm feeling right now...pure exhaustion! I went to bed at 8pm last night, and I'm only up now because I'm laying on the couch watching the Atlanta Braves.

Anyway, the weekend was a success. I met over 12 neighbors, and I have an abounding joy for my community. How nice is this? Today while in the mix of craziness, one of my neighbors shows up with a foil wrapped plate of hot out of the oven sausage balls! I often feel this sense of community is gone, but today I was proven wrong!

Anyway, I hope to be back to regular posts in a couple of days.

Office Organization

2010-04-05T21:09:00.001-04:00

I've received a lot of fabulous comments about my office, and I'm thrilled y'all seem to enjoy it as much as I do! Several questions and comments focused on organization, so I figured I'd take the week to show you what works for me. Let me start by saying, I used to be the most unorganized and messy person on the planet...as my sorority sister graciously pointed out. However, if I can change...anyone can!

However, I've discovered life is much easier when you're organized. The one and only thing I'll say before moving on is...organization takes work. Once you're organized, you have to maintain it. This means always looking to improve your system or purge what you don't use. I think a lot of people get stuck on this one concept.

Okay, here is my first tip...

Whatever you use most often, should be stored closest to where you work. Most often in my office, I'm sewing. So, these supplies need to be front and center for me.

So, for my thread I've hung thread organizers on the wall (within arms length from where I sew). I can quickly grab the thread I'm looking for because it is so close. You'll see that I try to put all thread in the same color family together, so I can quickly find what I'm looking for at the time.

The next most often materials I use in my office are my sewing scissors. I'm a little obsessed (as you can tell). I used a magnetic knife organizer to hang all of my metal sewing scissors. Because I'm a little fanatic, I hang my scissors in order of size...just my preference.

Another often used item in my office is ribbon. I have way too much of it, but I use it across many crafts. So, I took all the ribbon off their spool and put them onto old fashioned clothespins. I taped the end to the ribbon to the clothespin and wrapped them until I ran out of ribbon. Then, I used a straight pin to keep the ribbon in place. I had so much, I wanted to sort them even more. So, I put the ribbon clothespins in glass cookie jars. Each jar is specific to a category: (1) polka dot, (2) stripes, (3) plain, (4) design, and (5) flowers.

The final spotlight for today is my photo boxes. Last year, I purchased a bunch of these basic white photo boxes on clearance (specifically for my office). None of them hold photos. Instead, I store all sorts of materials (from paintbrushes to Mod Podge to glue to felt) in them. However, I quickly found that they needed labels. This makes it so much easier to quickly find the box I need.

Tomorrow, I'm going to walk you through my least favorite area of my office. However, it is my command central. You'll see how I had to let go of some of my rigidness and let it be.

Semi-Homemade Strawberry Surprise Shortcake

2010-04-04T22:44:00.000-04:00

I know there have been quite a few posts over the past week or two about different recipes considering the Easter holiday. Well, being "the baby" of the family, I have little responsibility when it comes to Easter dinner. In fact, I didn't bring a thing this year. However, when I do bring something I always aim for my Semi-Homemade Strawberry Surprise Shortcake. This recipe actually came from a friend, but I have completely taken it as mine. Here are the quick and easy steps...

Quick and easy ingredients: (1) strawberries, (2) Cool Whip, and (3) Pre-made Angel Food Cake.

Step 1: Slice the cake in half.

Step 2: Dig out a "moat" in the bottom half of the cake.

Step 3: Throw the leftover pieces of the cake into a bowl.

Step 4: Add half of the quartered strawberries and a scoop of Cool Whip to the bowl.

Step 5: Mix the three ingredients together (I use my hands).

Step 6: Fill the "moat" with the mixture.

Step 7: Put the top layer back on the cake.

Step 8: Using the Cool Whip, ice the cake. I accidentally left my Cool Whip out too long...don't do that!

Step 9: Decorate with remaining strawberries.

Step 10: Stick the finished cake into the fridge so the Cool Whip will solidify again. Your's shouldn't look this runny. I got sidetracked and left the Cool Whip out, so it was a little runny.

Lovin Life

2010-03-31T21:21:00.000-04:00

Considering I've cut out fresh flowers out of my budget, I decided to take advantage of my parents' gorgeous pond and everything growing around it. About a year and a half ago, my parents moved 1/3 of a mile down the street. They built a beautiful victorian home and purchased this gorgeous pond/lake next door.

The past several days, I've noticed the stunning jonquils that surround the fence. So, tonight, I strolled my sister's youngest baby, Ava, over to the lake (my sister lives right behind my parents) and picked some of these beauties. They bring such happiness to my life and house. They also give me a sense of my favorite season that has FINALLY shown its face.

They add such a gorgeous splash of color right when you come in the front door.

A second bouquet makes me smile in my kitchen.

HAPPY SPRING!

Photo of the Week

2010-03-31T00:00:00.000-04:00

Kissin' Babies...

Earlier this year, the campaign scheduled a photo shoot for Dad and the grandkids. These pictures are have been used on his web-site. This is my favorite picture of all...Dad kissing sweet Ava Roo Roo.

What I love best is the fact that this wasn't a "staged" picture. Dad is a fantastic grandfather (Daps as they call him), and the kids love to visit him (which is pretty fabulous considering we all live within a mile or two of each other).

Tuesday's Tutorial

2010-03-30T00:00:00.002-04:00

Last Monday, I featured these adorable bird nest decorations.

The idea for these bird nest plaques came from the catalog Country Door. As promised, here is a quick tutorial of how to make them.

Step 1: Purchase 2 wood plaques.

Step 2: Paint the outside of the wooden plaques.

Step 3: Cut music sheets to fit slightly inside the 2 wooden plaques. Several people have asked...I found the music sheet paper on E-bay.

Step 4: Ink the outside of the music sheets to give them a semi-antiqued look.

Step 5: Using Mod Podge, attach the music sheets to the plaques. Let dry.

Step 6: Using a paper towel, lightly apply a brown paint to the sides of the plaques. With a clean paper towel, wipe off excess paint. This will continue the semi-antiqued look.

Step 7: Hot glue bird nests to the front of the plaques. I purchased my bird nests (instead of making them) from Wal-mart.

Step 8: Hot glue the bird eggs to the inside of the nests.

Step 9: Paint the bird nests a light blue to match the outside of the plaques.

Step 10: Using a stencil brush, blot brown paint onto the blue eggs.

Step 10: Display and enjoy!

This post is linked to Tuesday's Tutorial at Hope Studios.

The Big Reveal

2010-03-28T23:52:00.005-04:00

If you follow my blog, you've heard about my office for a while. When I first moved into my house (about six years ago), I was much more interested in bright and vibrant colors. So, when I decorated...I went for crazy, lively, and busy.

Now that I've progressed past my 20s (don't you like that wording), I've decided I like calming colors and lots of organization. Here is the new look and a narrative of what has changed.

This is my work station...I love it.

Previously, I had a curtain that hid shelves. When I redecorated the office, I added a wall with double folding doors. It looks much more organized and really finishes off the room (although I'm not showing what is behind them).

I wish I had a picture of the terrible light fixture that was in my office previously. I picked a chandelier from a fabulous antique shop in my area (Dupree's).

I added a cutting table which also provides additional counter space.

Best part of the cutting table...it folds down too. Oh, and I sewed new curtains (which need to be fixed on one side, so I'm not going to show you a wider picture).

I added these built-ins when I first moved in to my house, but I did purchase new drawer knobs during the redecoration. I like this glitzy look, and I think they go well with the new chandelier.

A close-up of the new knobs.

This fabric was the inspiration for the wall color. I found it at Fabric and Fringe, and brought it in with the chair cushions and this idea board. **The idea board will be Tuesday's tutorial.

I kept the white photo storage boxes. They hold crafting supplies and not photos.

I purchased these glass jars at Bed, Bath, and Beyond and used them to organize my ribbon. They bring in a tiny punch of color.

I used a magnetic knife organizer from The Container Store for my collection of sewing scissors.

This might be my favorite functional item...I attached serge protectors under each side of my desk. Now I can plug in my sewing machine, serger, iron, lamp, phone, stamp embosser, etc., all at once.

I spray painted these thread organizers, and hung them behind my sewing machines.

These came from a local thrift store, and I spray painted them for a clean look.

I love these tiles. I purchased them at A Classy Flea, and I updated them with some glossy white spray paint. Oh, and I moved my white file cabinet out from the closet to use as more counter space.

This is my least favorite area...it is a little crowded and messy. However, everything I have out is something I use on a regular basis.

What do you think? I love it! It is definitely my personality, and every time I walk by...I smile!

Linking to the following parties:

The DIY Project Parade at the DIY Showoff

It's so very Creative at It's So Very Cheri

Room a Month at The Shades of Pink

Make it for Monday at Cottage Instincts

Just Something I Whipped Up Monday at The Girl Creative

I Made the World Cuter Today at Making the World CUTER

Made By You Mondays at Skip to My Lou

Talented Tuesday at My Frugal Family

Works for Me Wednesday at We are THAT Family

Show and Share at Just a Girl

Easter Link Party at Bird Crafts

Be Inspired at Room to Inspire

Sharing Ideas Wednesday at the Trendy Treehouse

Idea Sharin Wednesday at Women Who Do It All

100 Ideas Under $100 at Beyond the Picket Fence

Show Off Your Stuff at Fireflies and Jellybeans

Thursday's Treasures at Treasures for Tots

Get Your Craft On at Life as Lori

First Friday Party at Crafts in Bloom

I'm Lovin It Firdays at Tidy Mom

Craft Concoction at That's so Cuegly

Super Crafty Sunday at One Crafty Mommy

Weekend Wrap Up Party at Tatertots and Jello

Follow Me Friday

2010-03-26T04:14:00.000-04:00

So...do you see the little "FOLLOW" button to the right. Well, I'm a little addicted. I watch it profusely (at least once a day...okay, twice) to see if I have a higher number of followers. When I had 12 followers, I kept saying..."If I can just get to 25." Once I made it to 25, I moved on to 50. Well, currently I'm at 57. Now, I'm aiming for 100. Believe me, I know it dorky. In fact, I have a friend who says "it's just a popularity contest." If that is the case, I'm a nerd and begging for friends. I really want to see that number get to 100.

So, if you read my blog through a reader or receive email updates but aren't a follower...please take 2 minutes to become an "official" follower. It's a really quick process. It would really be greatly appreciated!

Follow Me Friday at Trendy Treehouse

Feature Friday

2010-03-26T00:21:00.000-04:00

I love Blogland. I love to float from blog to blog and read the stories, lives, and dreams of others.

Several months ago, I stumbled upon Orphaned No More, and I quickly bookmarked it. The blog is authored by a woman named Daleea. She is working to sell 3,000 beautiful fabric bracelets, so she can bring her daughter, Isabella, home from China.

Isabella is a child she and her family pray for daily. They have dreams and plans for her and are over 2,000 bracelets away from holding their sweet girl and knowing she is forever safe.

Her bracelets are gorgeous. Honestly, I bought three, and I could hardly make a decision on which ones I liked best. These are the ones I chose.

I was extremely moved after reading about Daleea and her family. I love her positive outlook and passion for a child she's never met. I'm asking you to check out her blog, not only because her bracelets are GORGEOUS, but also because I want to see her prayers and dreams come true...that she will be able to hold sweet Isabella tight and tuck her into bed every night.

Photo of the Week

2010-03-24T00:00:00.001-04:00

This is one of my favorite photos. I think it is hysterical. When I traveled to Africa in 2001, we were departing from Lewa, Kenya for Wamba, Kenya. Both runways were in the middle of fields, and as we landed we watched the town people run to the landing strip to see who was arriving. When we were leaving the "airport" we passed this sign...

When we took off to head back to Nairobi, my team members and I shared quite a few laughs at one of the locals chasing some cattle from the airstrip!

Tuesday's Tutorial

2010-03-23T00:00:00.000-04:00

Last week, I featured my funky and chunky rings (made with $4.50 worth of materials), and I promised a Tuesday Tutorial. I'm slightly embarrassed to be creating a tutorial because it is so easy. Oh well. Here is the scoop.

STEP 1: Collect these materials (1) pendant, (2) adjustable ring base, (3) super glue. My pendant came from Michael's for $3.99. They have a huge selection, so I would certainly recommend trying them if you have one nearby. While you're there, pick up a pack of ring bases. Mine was a pack of 8 (with different finishes) for $3.99. Then, you need your basic super glue. I think mine was called "Krazy Glue."

STEP 2: Apply super glue to the back of the pendant.

STEP 3: Place ring base over the super glue, and hold in place until it dries (less than 2 minutes).

STEP 4: Wear that beauty and smile for all the compliments you receive!

Tweet Tweet...(No, not Twitter)

2010-03-21T21:52:00.012-04:00

Recently, I received the catalog from the Country Door. While flipping through it, I came across this picture.

I couldn't justify the $40 to purchase these, plus I wanted a frame that was slightly darker. So, I used this as an inspiration. I looked for some great shadowbox frames, but I never found ones I liked (don't you hate when that happens). So, I decided using wood plaques would be cheaper and easier. This is what I came up with...

These little lovelies will be next week's Tuesday Tutorial.

Linking to the following parties:

The DIY Project Parade at the DIY Showoff

It's so very Creative at It's So Very Cheri

Room a Month at The Shades of Pink

Make it for Monday at Cottage Instincts

Just Something I Whipped Up Monday at The Girl Creative

I Made the World Cuter Today at Making the World CUTER

Made By You Mondays at Skip to My Lou

Talented Tuesday at My Frugal Family

Works for Me Wednesday at We are THAT Family
Show and Share at Just a Girl
Easter Link Party at Bird Crafts
Be Inspired at Room to Inspire
Sharing Ideas Wednesday at the Trendy Treehouse

It's So Very Thrifty at It's So Very Cheri

100 Ideas Under $100 at Beyond the Picket Fence

Show Off Your Stuff at Fireflies and Jellybeans

Thursday's Treasures at Treasures for Tots

Get Your Craft On at Life as Lori

First Friday Party at Crafts in Bloom

I'm Lovin It Firdays at Tidy Mom

Craft Concoction at That's so Cuegly

Super Crafty Sunday at One Crafty Mommy

Weekend Wrap Up Party at Tatertots and Jello

Funky and Chunky

2010-03-18T12:00:00.000-04:00

I love rings that are what I call...funky and chunky! However, they are hard to find and typically cost a good 20 to 40 buckaroos.

I've been looking for the perfect pieces to make my own, and I finally found them. Aren't these adorable?

The best part...these pieces were only $3.99 a piece. I think that is pretty stinking good. So, with the help of some glue and ring bases, I made these two beauties.

Although I wanted the BIG and chunky pieces, you could choose smaller ones and make these very easily. So, for the breakdown on cost: $4.50 each ($3.99 for top circular piece, $.50 for ring base, free for glue that I had on hand). I think that is pretty good! Can't wait to wear them.

If you're interested in creating your own rings, this will be my Tuesday Tutorial next week.

Tuesday's Tutorial

2010-03-16T00:00:00.001-04:00

Last week, I posted one of my favorite projects to date.

As promised, here is the quick and simple tutorial.

**Sorry, I forgot to take pictures of each of the steps.

STEP 1: Download, print, and cut out the attached drawing of a deer head. Click here is the drawing.

STEP 2: Iron some sort of adhesive to your chosen fabric. I used Wonder Under, but freezer paper would work too.

STEP 3: Trace and cut out the deer head from the adhesive paper and fabric.

STEP 4: Peel the adhesive paper away, and iron the deer head onto the onesie.

STEP 5: Using a coordinating thread, straight stitch around the deer.

STEP 6: Add a bow to one of the deer head antlers.

Pretty, Pretty Princess

2010-03-15T00:00:00.019-04:00

Libby is my brother's daughter. She turned 3 earlier this month. Libby is adorable...quite the spit fire. Recently, she's fallen in love with Disney Princesses. Her favorite seems to be Snow White, so coincidentally she had a Snow White Party.

Continuing my Year of the Handmade Gift resolution, I decided to make Libster a Snow White dress. I purchased the t-shirt from K-mart, and I added details, ruffles, ribbon, etc.

Then, I used this tutorial by Stephanie from Somewhat Simple to create a matching headband.

I love how it turned out, but I really can't wait to see Libby wear it!

Linking to the following parties:

Made for Monday at Cottage Instincts

Metamorphosis Monday at Between Naps on the Porch
So Very Creative at It's so Very Cheri
Made It Monday at The Persimmon Perch
Just Something I Whipped Up at The Girl Creative
Making the World Cuter Monday at Making the World Cuter
Market Yourself Monday at Sumo's Sweet Stuff
Make Your Monday at Twice Remembered
Motivate Me Monday at Keeping it Simple
DIY Project Parade at The DIY Showoff
DIY Day at A Soft Place to Land
Get Your Craft On at Today's Creative Blog
Toot Your Horn Tuesday at Silly Little Sparrow
Trash to Treasure Tuesday at Reinvented
Talented Tuesday at My Frugal Family
Penny Pinching Party at The Thrifty Home
Make it Yours at My Backyard Eden
Look What I Made at Creations by Kara
Show and Tell at Blue Cricket Designs
100 Ideas Under $100 at Beyond the Picket Fence
Strut Your Stuff Thursday at Somewhat Simple
Transformation Thursday at Shabby Chic Cottage
Show Off Your Stuff at Fireflies and Jellybeans
Get Your Craft On at Life as Lori
Thrifty Thursday at Tales of Bloggeritaville
Thursday's Treasures at Treasures for Tots
Frugalicious Friday at Finding Fabulous
I'm a Creative Cat at Poppies at Play
Remodelaholics Anonymous
Show and Tell Friday at Romantic Home
First Friday Party at Crafts in Bloom
I'm Lovin it Fridays at Tidymom
Saturday Nite Special at Funky Junk Interiors
Check Me Out Saturday at A Vision to Remember
Gifts from the Heart at Strictly Homemade

MOOD

2010-03-09T23:12:00.000-05:00

Are you a Project Runway addict? Each week the contestants are given a challenge to create an outfit with specific time and budget constraints. Tim Gunn (my favorite) takes the contestants to what looks like the most mesmerizing fabric store. Well, I decided since I was in NYC for a quick trip, why not take a cab and check out this place.

Enter Mood...

Three stories of what I would consider Heaven! There are bolts of fabric from floor to ceiling (all categorized for "easy finding" - not so sure that is really the case).

Not only are there aisles and aisles of heavenly fabric, but there are shelves and shelves of boxes filled with buttons, buckles, zippers, and anything else you might need to create.

Making the place even more exciting, one of the owners brings his dog (a pug) to work...and they employ individuals with a disability (love companies like that).

Luckily, I escaped with under $40 worth of damage. Check out their web-site if you have a free moment.

Doe a Deer, a Baby Girly Deer

2010-03-07T22:13:00.004-05:00

Meet Christy (and her husband, Phillip).

Christy is one of my cousins, and I’m having a hard time believing that she is having a baby…she’s just a baby herself. Anyway, Christy is having a sweet little girl (Gabby), and her baby shower was Saturday. Keeping in tune with the Year of the Handmade Gift, I decided to create some custom burp cloths and onesies. Christy’s family and her husband are hunters. They love to go hunting for anything and everything. So, I thought a pink camouflage theme was in store, and what would be better than a cute little stag head?

I love it because I think it is the epitome of girly. Although the deer is not so girly, the pink camo, ruffle bottom, and hair bow on the deer’s antlers screams girlie.

I’ll be back Thursday with a brief tutorial.

I'm linking to the following parties:

It's so very creative at It's So Very Cherri

Just Something I Whipped Up Monday at The Girl Creative

Make it for Monday at Cottage Instincts

I Made the World Cuter Today at Making the World CUTER

Talented Tuesday at My Frugal Family

100 Ideas Under $100 at Beyond the Picket Fence

Show Off Your Stuff at Fireflies and Jellybeans

Thursday's Treasures at Treasures for Tots

Get Your Craft On at Life as Lori

First Friday Party at Crafts in Bloom

Funky Junky's Saturday Night at Funky Junky's Interiors