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Friday, March 29, 2013

High Five for Friday

Well, this week has been rather busy! Lots to do and get done, but overall, it was successful!

1. Bible Study. 

I'm currently involved in two Bible studies on Monday. One with our ladies' ministry at church and one that I lead our 11th and 12th grade girls in at my home. Both studies are teaching me new things about God's Word. I'm particularly enjoying studying the book of 1 Peter on Monday mornings and looking at how to live life with a gentle and quiet spirit. Accompanying our study of 1 Peter, we are reading from Elizabeth George's Putting on a Gentle and Quiet Spirit. It truly has been a challenge for me - in a great way of course! 

2. Hubby Speaking. 

On Tuesday night, my husband spoke at Faith Christian Academy's PTF night on "Parenting Media-Saturated Children." His presentation is amazing (He's done it at our church for our teen parents as well), and I am so proud of him! A plus to this speaking engagement, we got to see and eat dinner with my sis-in-law and bro-in-law! They just moved from TN to where they are now - about 45 min from us! This means we get to see them much more frequently! 

3. Free Coffee!!!!



So, I have this app called CouponSherpa - you should download it! It's filled with all kinds of restaurant and retail coupons - no clipping required. On this app, Starbucks is giving away a free hazelnut or caramel macchiato! I've used the coupon several times this week for my free coffee! Yay! Free coffee always makes the day better!

4. Cake Pops. 



I spent my entire day and night on Wednesday filling a cake pop order for 10 dozen Easter pops! Easter is always my largest selling holiday for these things. Here's a look at the bunnies. They are so cute (of course I drew mouths on them later..hehe)! I'm also terrible at remembering to take pics of everything, but in addition to the bunnies, I made chicks and eggs too. Adorable and delicious!

5. Haircut.

I'm having major hair woes right now. I love my bob, but I want my hair to be long again! I also understand that in order for it to be long again, I'm gonna have to grow it out. I know I will have to trim it as it grows, but I just can't decide what I want to do. However, my hair was in dire need of a trim (it had been 10 weeks) so I got it cut again. Starting over with the lengthening process (unless I just get extensions :) ).


Happy Friday Everyone! Don't forget to celebrate Easter by being at your local church to worship this Sunday!

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Thursday, March 21, 2013

I Got the Blues

For some reason this week I have been draw to the blue hues when it comes to picking out my outfits. Here are two of my favorite from this week! Everything (except for one redline clearance purchase this week) came from shopping my closet! It's still a bit chilly around here. I'm kinda bummed about the crazy NC weather lately. Just warm up already :) 


Black & White striped tee paired with a mustard cardigan and navy scarf. On the bottom is a dark denim skirt.
Yes, I paired the navy scarf with the b&w stripes, and I loved it! I felt like it went well with the dark denim on the bottom. 


 And I LOVE this ring! (From NY&C)

Next....

  

I found this infinity scarf on redline clearance at NY&C this week! Woo Hoo! (I've actually had my eye on it for quite some time, but pay full price? No way!)

I paired it with a rouched white tank and royal blue cardigan. The shirt ensemble is all from NY&C, and the skirt is from Gap :)

Once again, I shopped my closet, so I don't have any links today :( So sorry! 

Happy Stylin' everyone!

Linked up with thepleatedpoppy

Wednesday, March 13, 2013

Hot Pink & Mint

There are some days that I just can't put an outfit together for some reason. Most days, I wear pretty casual clothes because I'm at home all day (or I'm just making a quick run for milk or baby wipes). This info will help you understand that when I get to dress up, I like to do it in style.

Last week, I had the opportunity to substitute where I used to teach. Ding, Ding, Ding! - An opportunity to dress up! Except I couldn't for the life of me figure out what to wear. Then, as I was looking at my shoes, it hit me! My hot pink skirt would be so cute with some mint shoes and my mint necklace - and to keep it springy and bright, I'll just wear a plain white shirt. Here's the result! I love the bright colors together!


What do you think? 


And I love my new necklace!!! Mint for spring!


Replicate this look:
Necklace: Groopdealz.com
Shirt: New York and Company similar
Skirt: New York & Company similar
Shoes: Target

Happy Spring Stylin!

Linked up with thepleatedpoppy

Tuesday, March 12, 2013

Tuesday Tune-Up: All Wrapped Up

I've started my spring cleaning! Yay! I tackled my closets this week (well, all but one) and I moved some things around in my attempt to re-organize a few clutter spots. I really needed some concise storage for my wrapping paper, tissue paper, and gift bags. I remembered that I had posted a few solutions for this on pinterest.

So, I found what I thought was the best tutorial on using a shoe-organizer to create a wrapping paper station.  I followed her steps exactly, making a few material substitutions, so I'm including the link here to the post I followed.

Here's what my finished project looks like!

The only closet I could really use was my coat closet downstairs. Not where I would keep it if I could choose, but really the only place for it. 


The sack I sewed on the bottom holds all of my gift bags. My modification for this was using a ribbon as drawstring instead of elastic on the top (mainly because I didn't have any elastic on hand). 

If you don't have a sewing machine, you can always use an old pillow case and safety pins to create the sack on the bottom. 



Tissue paper and ribbon stored at the top.


My second modification was using 3M hooks instead of the over-the-door hooks provided.

This project is super simple and it's a great way to keep all of those wrapping supplies in one place! 

I'd love to hear about your solutions for organizing wrapping paper! 

Linking up with A Bowl Full of Lemons


Saturday, March 9, 2013

High Five for Friday!

I'm starting something new! Yes, I have my regular "Tuesday Tune-Up" post, but I've decided to occasionally add "High Five for Friday" and link up with some pretty cool bloggers that do the same. My first "High Five" experience came through reading after Kate. To be honest, I loved this idea! With my limited blogging knowledge, I thought this was original with her and wouldn't dare plagiarize such a catchy recurring post.

Of course, I later found out that Lauren hosts a HFFF link party every week! Hello! That's when I pondered joining up! Now, I'm taking the plunge. Don't expect a HFFF every single week (kinda like I take a break from TT every now and then), but they will come often! I'm excited about it.

This week was very busy, and full of new things for me. Small things that just make life exciting.

1) I learned to crochet. I love to learn new things and this week I did! One of the teens in our youth group has a red infinity crocheted scarf. I loved it the first time I saw it and immediately wanted to replicate it. I already know how to knit, but knitting just wouldn't give it quite the right look. Determined to make the scarf myself, I went to Michael's, purchased a skein of yarn, a basic crochet needle, and then watched several informative youtube videos to learn how to crochet. The result? Well, I made this scarf two and a half times. Finally, I got it the way I wanted it (though I'll admit it was a tad bit long). Voila! Here it is! Aren't you proud? Just don't look too closely...there are many missed stitches. But, Hey! it's my first crocheted project, so I'm proud of it!


2) I tried a new lipstick. Revlon's Tutti Frutti lip butter! Coral is definitely in, I just wasn't sure how it would look on my lips. Really, I'm not a lipstick person, but this lip butter is super moist and the color - I like it!

3) I reached my pre-pregnancy weight! This is was completely thrilled about! I had those leftover pounds hanging around until I joined a gym in January. Since I've been working out, I've dropped 7 lbs! This week I hit that pre-prego weight, but my goal is to loose a couple more pounds. 

4) I also started a new session of Bible study with my junior and senior high teen girls. We met for 8 weeks in the fall and just started a new 8 week session for the spring. We are studying Lies Young Women Believe, and the study has gotten off to a great start! I'm praying for the Lord to use His Word to speak to our hearts and replace lies with the truth!

5) I had the opportunity to substitute teach this week. Subbing is fun, but I'm definitely nowhere near ready to go back to teaching full time. (Yep! I was a full-time middle/high school English teacher before little man). 


 Well, that's my week at a glance! High Five For Friday everyone!


Wednesday, March 6, 2013

Spring Cleaning Checklist


Can you believe that it is time for Spring Cleaning already? I can't. Semi-annual cleanings can always seem like such a daunting task, but I always feel so awesome about my house when the cleaning is complete!

My Spring Cleaning takes place in March and April. Guess what. It's March which means it is time to get busy! I'm starting this week.

Before starting the seemingly overwhelming task of Spring Cleaning, take some time to organize your approach. In the past, I used to simply start in one room and see how far I could go. However, by not organizing my cleaning, I would inevitably miss something.

To keep this from happening to you, start by making a list. Go room by room and write down everything that needs to be cleaned or touched up in that specific room. This is how you will form your checklist. Don't leave off hallways and closets - they need attention too!

Once you have your list, organize your products. Get everything you need to get the cleaning done. I have several favorite products for specific needs, but I'm slowing making the switch to natural, homemade cleaners. Select just a few that will cover your needs. There is no point in lugging around a box of cleaning supplies.

Set a time goal. Give yourself and window of time in which you would like to have your cleaning completed. Schedule certain days that you can simply tackle some of the larger projects.

Then, start cleaning! Here's my cleaning checklist. I adapted it and made it my own while copying a model from a blog that I follow. The key to your checklist is making it your own. No one has the same house, therefore everyone's list should include some variation. But, if you need help getting started, take a peek at mine.


BEDROOMS:

o     Dust lighting fixtures and ceiling fan.
o     Dust furniture.
o     Clean lampshades.
o     Clean mini blinds.
o     Wash windows and window sills. Take out and wash window screens.
o     Wash switch plates.
o     Wash walls and trim.
o     Wash doors and doorknobs.
o     Wash vent covers.
o     Switch out winter clothes for summer clothes in closet.
o     Clean out drawers and neatly replace clothes.
o     Get rid of anything you didn’t wear this year.
o     Vacuum closet floor.
o     Move bed. Sort and put away what you can. Vacuum under bed.
o     Launder bedding and curtains.
o     Freshen mattress by sprinkling with baking soda, letting sit briefly, and them vacuuming it up.
o     Wash mirrors.
o     Replace light bulbs.
o     Vacuum room.

BATHROOMS:

o     Empty cabinets and vanity. Wash inside. Discard expired products. Replace items neatly.
o     Wash outside of cabinets and vanity.
o     Clean tub. Wax if necessary. Clean out drain.
o     Clean sink and drain.
o     Shine faucets.
o     Clean mirror and frame.
o     Wash light bulbs.
o     Dust light fixtures.
o     Dust blinds.
o     Wash windows and window sills.
o     Wash screens.
o     Wash switch plates.
o     Wash walls and trim.
o     Wash doors and knobs.
o     Sweep and mop floors.
o     Reseal grout lines.
o     Caulk if needed.

KITCHEN:

o     Wash windows and sills.
o     Wash screens.
o     Clean mini blinds.
o     Cabinets and drawers: Remove items, clean inside of cabinet/drawer, return items and organize them.
o     Wash and sanitize cutting boards.
o     Wash outside of cabinets including knobs.
o     Wash the tops of the cabinets and dust accessories.
o     Wash doors.
o     Dust light fixtures.
o     Clean oven.
o     Clean stove top. Remove drip pans and clean.
o     Clean and organize fridge and freezer. If necessary, defrost freezer.
o     Roll out the fridge and stove to clean under and behind them.
o     Vacuum refrigerator coils.
o     Clean microwave inside and out.
o     Clean toaster.
o     Clean and descale coffee pot.
o     Wipe down all appliances.
o     Sanitize counter tops.
o     Wash and shine sink.
o     Clean drain and garbage disposal.
o     Clean dishwasher.
o     Sweep and mop floor.
o     Wash kitchen mats/rugs.
o     Clean the garbage can inside and out.

DINING ROOM:

o     Wash curtains.
o     Wipe down table and chairs.
o     Dust furniture.
o     Empty China cabinet and dust inside. Replace items.
o     Shine silverware.
o     Dust art.
o     Wash mirrors.
o     Wash windows and window sills.
o     Wash window screens.
o     Wash blinds.
o     Wash switch plates.
o     Wash walls and trim.
o     Wash doors and door knobs.
o     Clean floors.

LIVING ROOM:

o     Vacuum sofas.
o     Spot clean sofas.
o     Launder throw pillows and blankets.
o     Dust shelves, furniture, and décor.
o     Clean lamps and lampshades.
o     Wash windows and sills.
o     Wash window screens.
o     Clean television screen.
o     Carefully dust electronics.
o     Tidy electronic wires.
o     Organize DVDs, magazines.
o     Sanitize hard plastic toys.
o     Launder stuffed toys.
o     Wash switch plates.
o     Wash walls and trim.
o     Clean floors.

LAUNDRY ROOM:

o     Pull out washer and dryer.
o     Clean behind and under washer and dryer.
o     Wash outside of washer and dryer.
o     Wash inside of washing machine.
o     Wash lint trap.
o     Clean out dryer hose.
o     Wash doors and trim.
o     Clean floor.

HALLWAY:

o     Empty coat closet.
o     Clean floors and discard any unused items.
o     Organize coat closet.
o     Clean doors and wash trim.
o     Wash walls.
o     Clean floors.
o     Dust art.

STAIRWELL:

o     Sweep/vacuum stairs.
o     Spot clean walls.
o     Wipe down handrail.
o     Wash baseboard.

OUTSIDE:

o     Sweep porches and walkway.
o     Wash thresholds.
o     Wash exterior doors.
o     Give doors fresh coat of paint if necessary.
o     Clean or replace welcome mat.
o     Power wash vinyl siding.
o     Power wash deck.
o     Stain deck.

EXTRAS:

o     Clean ceiling fan blades.
o     Organize photos (digitally or into albums).
o     Sort and clean linen closets, utility closets, and office spaces.
o     Dust, clean, organize all bookshelves. 

Look for posts this month that focus on specific cleaning areas and needs. 

Happy cleaning everyone!

Saturday, March 2, 2013

A Little of This and That...

Happy Saturday, everyone! I hope that you had an enjoyable week and now get to enjoy the weekend.
My week was by no means boring. We had a birthday party for my sister-in-law, helped her and her husband move on Tuesday, went to a one-year-old's party on Thursday, kept the niece on Friday, then ended my Friday with a date night! Woo hoo! I just love a good date night!

Spring is definitely in the air (at least one or two days a week around here) and I'm starting to wear those spring outfits! Here's a new one that I love, mostly because I love green, and I love the white with black polka dots. Put them together, and you are speaking my language!



Shirt: LOFT
Skirt: New York & Company
Belt: New York & Company
Shoes: Rack Room

Yep, this is definitely one of my favs in the closet right now! 
  
Find this look yourself! 
Shirt: similar found @ Kohl's
Skirt: similar
Shoes: rackroom

Happy Weekend everybody! 

Linked up with the pleated poppy