I couldn't continue without this....

Blogging has been something I have enjoyed doing.Sharing information, styles, products and other things that would hopefully inspire another. This past week as I sit down to write for my blog my thoughts become lost. I kept telling myself to write about this or that knowing that as a new blogger with hopes of success I knew consistency was key but my heart just wouldn't move past the tragedy in Connecticut. 

My Internet time usually begins with Facebook, twitter, or news. Throughout the day my mind is full of blogging ideas always thinking "Hey, this would be cute!" Then as I turn my computer on ready to share I am reminding of the unthinkable. My inspiration comes to a heart wrenching halt as I learn more and more about each victim and their personal stories. I wanted to write about the event but then again thought "No, I will share something that may help others to escape reality...even for a moment." I couldn't do that, no matter how hard I tried. The victims and their families have been heavy on my heart and constantly in my prayers...still bringing tears to my eyes. I had to share my thoughts...even if it is just for myself. I wish I could tell each person how sorry I was; although, I know it wouldn't make the hurt go away. I, along with so many others, wish we could help....even just a little.

Just as I sit here to write I continuously come to a blank...a loss for words. It is impossible to share verbally how I feel as I am sure many others are.  Friday was a tragic reminder that I take many things for granted: each kiss, hug, "I love you" and little drawing.  

I am thankful for my family and blessed to have 3 amazing boys.

They say time heals and will take a great deal of time for these families to find some sort of peace but I hope they know that there is a nation behind them. Although they cannot see us we are hugging them and although they cannot hear us we are praying for them. 

Although it is true that we don't know what future holds, I'm not going to live in fear that "tomorrow may never come," I am going to live in the blessing of being given today and allowed to enjoy and cherish each little moment.

XoXo

Lori Jewel  

Crafting the Day Away

 


Scarf: Target
Shirt: Target
Blazer: JcPennys
Pants: Walmart
Shoes: Kohls
Necklace: Forever 21

My Tuesday was a busy busy day but filled with fun activities (and not so fun surprises). As I was getting ready this morning Bentley decided to dump his cereal on the floor instead of his tummy. After that was cleaned up he then decided that his diaper looked much better on the floor than on his booty...along with the poo in it. Yep...who needs coffee when you have a toddler?! After accomplishing the feat of getting myself and Bentley dressed (seriously...I deserve an award of some sort) it was off to my mom's house. 

 

 
 

 
 
 
 
 
We had planned to do some Christmas gift crafting for my grandparents and Leland and I am proud to say we were able to accomplish most of it...which is rare for us as we are easily distracted. 
 
 




Super cute with recipes for all ages

Leland has had a passion for cooking and baking so this year I decided to center his gifts around this.  I was able to find a neat kid-centered cookbook by Rachel Ray at a local used bookstore and after an unsuccessful search for youth culinary classes I decided to make my own "Cooking with Mom" certificates, making it even more special.

Faking my way through

Of course Leland will be cooking in style as well. I found this apron at Joann's fabric and added some touches to make it more personal.





Now these touches are iron-on and the word "iron" is not something I am familiar with (that's what happens when your husband is a mechanic...not to many dress shirts to tend to). I am amazed I even knew where my iron was...which happened to be under a few inches of dust...like I said, not something I do often.


Love it


I managed to make it through (with some help from my mom of course) and surprised no one got hurt. I think it turned out great and can't wait him wearing it in action.

 



I think it will look better on Leland



 
 
My mom wanted to make something for my grandparents and loved her idea which is a crossword puzzle of all the grand kids.  It took a bit to get the puzzle figured out but once we did there was nothing to it.  A few materials and a little time is all we needed. Unfortunately we bought a canvas to large so we were unable to finish it...darn, I guess another crafting day is in our future.

 

Coming along well...now to put them on a canvas

Tiles for the crossword puzzle


 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
It's good to know that another thing is off my gift list...and got to spend some quality time with my mom in the meantime.

 

XoXo

   Lo

December 7th, 1941

It’s hard to believe that 71 years ago our country experienced an attack that today we remember because it truly is a, as President Roosevelt so brilliantly states, “that will live in infamy.”  Before September 11, 2001 many of us Americans could only imagine the horror that those individuals experienced that day.  Now, I think as a nation we can sympathize with the victims of December 7^th, 1941. 

As we prepare for the Holidays with gifts and decorations let us not forget that day. In remembrance of today don’tforget about the days that followed. When the brave men and woman of the U.S. military left the comforts of home to fend for our nation and for those overseas who also deserve the same freedom as we are so blessed to have.  

Quick (seriously) manicure.

I don't know about you but when I think "Press on nails" I flashback to grade/middle school and sleepovers. Boy have these things sure improved...in my opinion.

  I have a slight obsession with manicures. I used to think I needed help but after reading Lauren Conrad's Beauty book and learning that she does her nails just about every other day I felt better about my addiction.  Anyone who knows me knows that I change my purses almost with every outfit so it seems only fitting that I like my nails to at least somewhat coordinate with my looks.  I am one those people that will pull out the entire outfit (sometimes putting it on the night before to ensure it looks right) for me next days....ok, so that was slightly embarrassing to admit.

  Anyway...getting way off topic. I love painting my nails but sometimes I just don't want to take the time to do it. I came across these press on nails and thought well...not to much to lose (I had coupons making them nearly free). 

ImPress press-on nails
You can find them most anywhere

I must say these things are sure exceeding my expectations.  They were super easy to I apply. Just prep the nail with the prep pad (I filed, smoothed, and removed my cuticles as well) peel backing and apply.  Yes, seriously that easy. It took me maybe 20-30 minutes start to finish.

Now for the hold up...I was expecting to find nails floating around the house popping off every 5 seconds but nope.  I have three boys and a household to keep up and haven't lost a nail. They look great and are short enough to function well.  

These would be great also if your looking for a different or classy look for an event or date night (since it is the season of holiday parties). There are plenty of great styles to choose from.  My tip...get these and spare the salon money for a better dress, fancier shoes or maybe another accessory.  

The finished look...not bad, eh?

Spruced Up Outlets

       My husband and I recently redecorated our living room and I was tired of seeing the plain old white outlets and that's when it came to me... To heck with tradition I'm dressing these babies up! Sure you can go to the Hardware store and buy a new outlet/switch plate but where's the fun in that? And who doesn't love an excuse to craft (ok...well, half the male population but whose keeping count?). Not to mention that it is a unique way to bring your own personal style to the room. 

So instead of buying new outlet/face plates why not spruce them up a bit? It take only a few supplies are hardly any time.

What you will need:

Faceplate (obviously)

Spray paint one (if needed)*

Lace fabric (any color)

Spray paint for top

Lay down some newspaper (may seem obvious but I've forgotten this common sense law before). If you are changing the color do so now and let dry.

Once the outlet/switch plates are dry lay your lace fabric over top and lightly spray in a swooping motion the spray paint two over top. You can over a few times to darken the shade if you want. Remove the fabric slowly and let dry. Spray a few light coats of clear protective gloss on top and viola you've got some snazzy covers! 

*(if you are not happy with the base color of the faceplate first spray paint it to a desired color)

Playing Catch-Up

Boy it has been a while since I have posted...these past few weeks have been nothing short of eventful! I was debating whether to just start anew with today moving forward or to a re-cap of the days since. I decided, because of the many things that took place to do a small summary....here it goes.

Trottin around

Leland was glad to have grandma
there

 Every year before Thanksgiving Leland's school does a Turkey Trot...basically we run/walk back and forth for 20 minutes (no doubt because they know we will soon be stuffing our faces). It's fun though and the kids enjoy it. This year Grandma, Bentley, and Andrew came along as well.

My attempt at a Turkey veggie
tray...via Pinterest
What do you think?

One of my awesom Black Friday
finds...Bentley loves this!

  For the past few years Thanksgiving has been held at our home, we enjoy having people over here. I love to entertain (although my pet peeve is that not all of my plates and glasses match). It was a nice evening...until later that night when my mom, sister, and I shopped till we dropped (literally...Katie dropped on the floor at JC Penny's and fell asleep.  However, I did score 3 of my most wanted items: a waffle maker, gray boots, and a wireless printer..SCORE! We got some good deals but the best part was the memories. We started this tradition two years ago on a whim and I love it every year.                                                                                                                        .

My birthday was on the 26th and I still can't believe I am 29...ugh! Although, they do say that the 30's are the new 20's I sure hope there is some truth to that and it wasn't just someone saying it out of sympathy! I had a decent birthday. My husband gave me a Broncos jersey (yep, I'm a Manning girl) and the boys have me a SodaStream which so far I love; however, not to crazy about the cherry cola flavor.

Custom made coasters. Email me for orders
Christmas is around the corner...why not give something
handmade?

My brother had what they call a senior boutique this past week. It is between a yard sale and craft fair for the seniors to raise money for the end of year trip to Washington D.C. Mom and I crafted our hearts out; unfortunately  we weren't as successful as we'd hoped. I displayed my pictures as well and have to be honest was a little bummed that I received no orders. I know I just have to keep chugging along and have confidence in myself. Rome wasn't built in a day. 

We finally put up our Christmas tree this weekend, aside from the crazy warm weather it makes it feel a bit more like Christmas around here. I love seeing Bentley's reaction to the tree, he has such innocent enjoyment. I love to decorate for Christmas all the decorations and trinkets are just so beautiful...I need to homes just to fit all my wants into them! Again, this is where my love for Pinterest grows as I am able to make many different things myself and personalize my holiday home. 

Letting Bentley take the angel
tradition this year with
a little help from daddy

My accomplishment for this week...the sock bun. I have been trying AND trying to get this hairstyle down and I finally think I've mastered it (enough to get noticed and asked about it anyway). I love this do! They have pre-made donuts at drug and department stores but I've found that a good ol' traditional sock works best.  

Sock bun:side view

Boots: TJ Maxx
Knee Length socks: Target
Black Skinny's
Tank: Walmart
Sweater: Walmart
Red Necklace: Goodwill

  

Gray flats: Goodwill
Black Skinny's; Target
Blouse: Target
Leopard Belt: Target

                                                                   

Breaking out the fall

You know how they say you don't know what your're missing until it is gone? Well...Arizona's 100+ degree weather seems to be gone and I have to say...I do not miss it! I love the cold weather; however, it could be due to my love (and slight obsession) to sweaters, jackets and scarfs.  Although I wear these items all year long I at least avoid the "What is she thinking" stares during the winter months.

 No matter where your decorations come from; whether they are from Target or the tree down the way enjoy it. Mother nature has given us a gift and it is a reminder to stop and take a moment to reflect on the changes in our lives. The future is on it's way...make it as warm and promising as the gifts nature gives us. 

Earrings: Claire's
Necklace:Goodwill
Shirt: Goodwill
Belt: Target
Jeans: Target
Flats: Target

I also have a love for fall colors. The beautiful oranges, yellows and browns bring such warmth the everyday scenery. Well, if you live in the valley your warmth comes from the heater and some store bought decorations.

(My mom, sister, and I went to Goodwill this past Thursday (we had to...it was 50% off day!) and I found some great items. It will take a few posts for me to actual get the hang of self-portraits so bare with me! )

Bloggers Anonymous

Hello, my name is Lori and I am addicted to blogs. I love to read other people's blog and sharing in their interests.  Blogging is such a great way for us little people to be able to share our thoughts, passions and anything else we think the "world" should know.  It may actually be a disease....I am addicted to them, no seriously where is that BA meeting again?

I came across The Small Things Blog about a month ago and was immediately hooked.  Kate, the author shares a great deal of style tips and I love that she labels the different pieces and where they are from.  She either was or still is a hair stylist and so she also gives tips on hair and beauty, including videos...which is really neat.  

Reading her blog actually inspired me to post more to mine. I would love to be able to blog daily about style, crafts, or just things that interest me (and I think would interest others as well). Of course  I am aware that I need to improve my grammatical skills and be a bit more disciplined. In a year I'd love to have followers and to know that people enjoy reading my thoughts but to be realistic I know it takes time...especially with how many blogs are available.

  As children we are told that we can do whatever we want, right? I may not be a child anymore but I can still accomplish those goals that my heart is set on...right?

Happy reading...cannot wait to see where we are in a year!

DIY...my new obsession

    Sunday was another DIY weekend for our family. We have been spending most weekends improving our home and making projects and I must say I have really enjoyed it.  I know I am growing up when I go from wanted to spend the weekend at the mall to wanting to spend the weekend at Home Depot.  I remember going there with my parents when I was younger, in fact it felt like a second home.  After Lois and I walked through all the display doors, sat on the display toilets and tried out the showers we became deathly bored.  I vowed I would never step foot into a Home Depot when I was an adult...well, that vow went out the window.




     Today I attempted the transfer pin that some may have seen on Pinterest. Basically it is transferring a picture from regular printer paper to a board. I was pretty nervous and excited because I really wanted it to work. It also requires overnight drying which was quite trying on my patience but I made it through.  I am happy to report it was a SUCCESS! I will definitely being doing this craft again (a couple will be Christmas presents). Actually most of my presents this year will be handmade, which I love.
      Ryan had his own DIY project today as well and I love him for doing it. Our coffee table was becoming scratched through wear (and not to mention three boys) and I wanted to make it darker with a antique look, giving it some character. Ryan did a great job, it looks amazing and now our living room is really coming together.

I've gotten many of my ideas from Pinterest lately and this was one of them.  There are several links located on Pinterest for "How To's" but I am going to list it below as well for anyone interested. With the holidays coming up soon these are great gifts for Grandparents and friends.

Transferring pictures to wood

What will I need?

*Block of wood (in your desired size...I used 8 X 10)

*Picture printed on basic printer/copy paper (same size as your wood)

*Gel Medium

*Mod Podge

How do I do it?

Brush gel medium onto your wood (not to much but not to little). Place picture (face side down) onto the piece of wood and smooth out any bubbles. Let this dry overnight (or for at least 5 hours). After it is dry wet the paper and rub it off gently to reveal the picture. Soaking a washcloth in water and letting it sit on the paper for a few minutes makes this easier.  Once the paper is removed brush mod podge onto the wood. Let dry and viola! Hope you enjoy it :-)

Halloween and pony rides

So Halloween has already come and went, where did this year go? I swear it was just August and the kids were getting ready to start school.
Every holiday the boys get a card from "Grandma 2" it's a tradition they have come to love...the included dollar doesn't hurt either.

                               

         Instead of doing the usual trick-or-treat we went to our church's "Family fun night" which was a lot of fun. The boys got to do a pony ride (Bentley wasn't sure if he was having fun or not) and play games. 

As they played the games they were given tickets for prizes (think Peter Piper Pizza) and Andrew got a flute, Leland a baseball an bat, Bentley a fireman and slinky. All in all it was a fun night. We were glad to have daddy there to enjoy it with us.

Don't worry, they didn't miss out on candy as the church gave out a HUGE bag of it...which somehow Bentley keeps finding!







         We didn't do the usual pumpkin carving either...we really slacked on the traditions didn't we? However, we did go to Mother Nature's Farm and it was fun as always.




We've been going for a few years now (ah...there we go a tradition). This year along with the tractor pull ride, petting zoo and pumpkin patch there was also a reptile exhibit. The boys spent most their time there. I was a little hesitant as was Bentley. They had a python in a windowless cage!

I welcome November with open arms as it is my favorite time of year. The decorations, pumpkin smells, and yummy feasts. I could; however, do without the Christmas displays...to early! Towards the end of the month is mom and I's new tradition...BLACK FRIDAY! Last year we went at midnight, shopping on no sleep...now that's the way to do it! This year? Who knows but I can't wait to find out!