{prettyshoulders}

{lucky dozen}

2012-01-07T10:02:00.000-07:00

For someone who likes to organize but leaves herself in the dust when it comes to fashion, this little ditty I found on Pinterest made me think twice! I actually think I will have this on my iPhone when I go shopping. In reality, I have a few pieces (obviously not naked at the moment) and I could totally stand buying a few new pieces. I think this will make my life easier, dontcha think? I wouldn't HAVE to think every morning! I might substitute some skirts for other coloured pants as I'm not a skirt lover. Okay, I really need to go purge my closet now....

{what's on my desktop?}

2012-01-07T09:37:00.000-07:00

Every month I upload a new FREE desktop calendar to my computer. I luv her artwork! I can't believe it free! Today I was on Leelou Blogs and asked if she could make an itty bitty one for my iPhone, but then I discovered that if I hold down my finger on the photo it will save to my camera file and then I can select to use it as "wallpaper", reduce the size, and save as my lock screen! ta-daa! It look so cute! Here it is:

2011-07-07T22:06:00.000-06:00

Wow- It's been forever since I blogged, it seems like I've been spending more time on PINTEREST collecting fabulous ideas for parties, home & things I like;) Meet me there and follow me:)

{Two New Recipes}

2011-04-19T21:30:00.001-06:00

Hi there! I'm so excited about trying these two new recipes so I thought I'd share! Let me know if you try them! They look amazing!

Buttermilk Banana Bread via: House of Smiths

Pineapple Ginger Carrot Cake via: Food Network

{Valentine's Day Framed Art}

2011-01-30T18:18:00.001-07:00

So as promised here are my crafty framed Valentine's Day papercraft. It turned out cuter than I expected. What do you think? I printed off the sayings from: The Rubber Punkin and the subway art from: Today's Fabulous Finds I already had the all the paper and frames from Ikea. I'm quite enjoying looking at them! Now, back to reality, gotta get ready for the work week!!!

{valentine's day ideas}

2011-01-29T22:41:00.004-07:00

I normally don't get too excited over Valentines day, but for some reason, I am this year. Tomorrow I will post a cute framed papercraft I made tonite! I also have planned a Family Valentines Spaghetti Dinner at my house- weird, I guess I'll figure it out, I think it's weird because the main reason I don't like Valentines things is because of the ridiculous amounts of pink associated with it! hahaha, but for some reason, i'm not minding it all this year! So here's some cute ideas I've come across this weekend for you to have a looksey over! Enjoy!

p.s. couldya make me smile & let me know if you were here &/or if you visited these sites & maybe let me know how you liked the ideas? I would LUV to hear from you;)

http://www.twigandthistle.com/blog/brownie-bags

http://www.twigandthistle.com/blog/goodie-bags

http://www.bedifferentactnormal.com

http://bakingbites.com

www.scrappinthedetails.typepad.com

www.ourbestbites.com

http://kcmunda.wordpress.com

http://creativehostess.co.uk

{father's day idea...before I forget}

2011-01-22T21:40:00.004-07:00

I was looking over my bookmarks and found this super duper cute idea over at Alpha Mom!!! I know I bookmarked it a long time ago and it was after father's day, so this year i'm posting this idea before I forget it for this year. I think many of you will find it easy to print and adhere to your treats. It would be a good idea to start collecting cute & different bag sizes that you can put your treats in. I think I might include some homemade treats, time permitting. If not, they will be filled with dad's fave treats! It can be as affordable as you need it to be & if you start gathering non-perishables now, you will be ready for Father's Day, June 19th, 2011! Oh and start looking for a cute box too!!!!! Have fun- let me know if you make one!

{lucky7}

2011-01-15T22:19:00.002-07:00

So I've had some time this month to check out some decorating blogs since it's so cold outside that there's not much else to do....well except the usual cleaning... organizing...cooking....etc... but I love to take time to look online to inspire me to beautify my home. So this is where I've been looking: Have fun!

1. http://theletteredcottage.net/

2. http://theoldpaintedcottage.blogspot.com/

3. http://theinspiredroom.net/

4. http://www.theyellowcapecod.com/

5. http://itsthelittlethingsthatmakeahouseahome.blogspot.com/

6. http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/

7.http://inspirationfordecoration.blogspot.com/

{beauty in interiors}

2010-10-21T09:40:00.001-06:00

Everything about this kitchen is perfect: I love the island, the color contrast, the lighting, the paint color, the subway tile, the hardware, the barn sink, the wood encased windows, the cupboards glass, the hardwood...it's beauty in one photo. just dreaming on a sick day. here's a few more beautiful pics i was admiring this morning...

{desktop calendar}

2010-10-03T22:20:00.000-06:00

If you go here: http://leelou-blogs.com/ you will find a free fun desktop calendar for the month of October! It's very cute! Just thought I'd share with ya!

{a little Halloween/Fall at my house}

2010-10-01T23:55:00.001-06:00

So these are a few pics of Fall/Halloween at my house! We've had a fun time taking these items out one at a time and starting to feel fall'ish at our home. The kids still enjoy seeing these little treasures pop up at home. I will take some outdoor pics when I'm done the entryway! My sister and I made the Halloween letters this week and it turned out beautifully! It was nice to start & finish the project in one day! The other items have been collected over time, some from Home Sense and Michael's mostly.

{exhaling}

2010-08-30T23:29:00.001-06:00

I'm unwinding after a terribly hectic 2 weeks at work and have been blog hopping tonite -so fun and so many creative people that are so inspiring out there! Let me show you where I went: I first started with a cute site that my sista sent me: Brown Paper Packages--oh very cute ideas on this cute blog! Then I clicked on an idea she liked from a really neat husband and wife team blog: I really need this set up -on the left- that I found at this blog: kevinandamanda.com...i got get my platters and casserole dishes into this arrangement! Off to walmart to check these out on my days off! They also have amazing FREE fonts here! After I downloaded a bunch of free fonts I headed over to: centsational girl- where I saw an amazing office re-do- so inspiring! then I went over to a new blog: Roman and Williams work- and i ga-ga'd over the amazing work these two do- I am looking for decorating inspiration and i think i might start here! So how is that you found me? and landed on my little blog? Does it speak to you? Do you like what Iike? talk to me, I'm so scared to let people know about my blog! Just the other day I looked and saw that I have 17 followers! Wow! It's mostly comprised of people I don't know! How is this? I want to make special mention of my first 17 followers- in fact I think my next blog If i ever have another one, will be called: 17followers! I should run and check if that blog name is taken! teehee! I live for comments! ...15 mins later...the blog address is available- sweet!

{Williams Sonoma Spices}

2010-08-25T19:14:00.000-06:00

Doesn't this collection at Williams Sonoma look amazing? They are affordable also. I can't wait to go pick some out and the best thing is that they have a recipe for each spice they sell! Chilies, Salts, Ground Spices, Spice Blend, Curries and Sweets. The Chinese five spice sounds like something I have been looking for! Hello... Saigon Cinnamon???

{5 new blogs i've been visiting}

2010-08-22T01:00:00.004-06:00

here's another FAVE 5: these are some new blogs i think i'll add to my blog roll: check 'em out & tell me which one you liked!

1. oneordinaryday.wordpress.com

2. creativehostess.co.uk

3. decorpad.com

4. howdoesshe.com

5. pepperdesignblog.com

{fall project #1}

2010-08-08T21:54:00.007-06:00

So i just got back from holidays and was deciding on what projects to work on this fall. I always do a purge or organize closets in the fall- why? because it's much cooler!!! But I have most of that done already due to "looking for something" this summer! I have almost finished the main floor and now want to start looking at some products as I shop around and get one of the boys rooms started this fall. I realize I only have so much say and I also realize he will one day move on so I would like to make the most of his room as I can. I really don't want to go too kiddie, I'd rather the room go with the house colors. So I've started looking at the colors in these rooms: What do you think?

{my fave 5}

2010-06-06T15:13:00.009-06:00

I just saw on a blog that I love where she showcased her "favorite 5 things"- random "things" no categories for me though!
So, these are my fave 5!!! (for now):

1. Love my Vinnie- that's right, I was without Vinnie the Van for a week about a month ago and boy did I miss him!!! When I got back into my van I actually had a conversation with him!!! He's a cherry red Kia Sedona

2. Love my wall of bookcases!!! I had seen it in a magazine a long time ago and actually ripped it out and saved it! and when I bought my house I actually built it!!! I love displaying "stuff" on it.

3. Love my 27" iMac...absolute pleasure to work on and have fun on!!! It's been the best investment thus far!

4. Love me some Second Cup Frrrrrrozen Hot Chocolate!!! oooooohhhh the pleasure is insane! If you haven't had one- go now!!!

5. Love my STYLE AT HOME subscription! It's about to run out soon...I've gotten so much inspiration and joy reading articles in it. I just finished reading about a garden that I would love to have~

{spring...is in the air???}

2010-05-02T18:59:00.006-06:00

oooooohhhh....pottery barn---why do you do THIS to me??? it's like they can read my mind!!!

Do you think it's safe to start loading some spring inspirational photos? I found these pics here while looking for inspiration for my backyard in my new house....{okay, so I got a little side-tracked} Gardening is something I've dabbled in but don't know the lingo at all! I have so much to learn! Anyhow, look these over and lets start thinking about fresh, new spring thoughts!

{archiving a few ideas for a rainy day}

2010-03-27T18:44:00.004-06:00

OBG

2010-03-13T22:19:00.003-07:00

I just learned this --Oldies but Goodies!!! "Once again, if you know me"... I decided to do a LIST! a list of the top five blogs that I visited when blogging began for me.
1. Kristina Werner---loved her card making videos until she got caught using music that she wasn't allowed to use without paying rights to them!!!
2.Card of the Week---this is where i discovered many new sites and found myself checking out page after page!
3.Kirsty---this is where I'd go when bored and needed a new blog!!! It's an all in one blog...arts, entertainment, home, design, cooking, etc
4.The Daily Beast---came across this site when I was looking for some politics, some pop culture and great essays on simple, complicated life issues.....big change from the other "momstyle sites"
5.Southern Wedding Magazine---A fabulous wedding site with amazing photography that I could look at forever!
Well, that's where it all started. I've been working alot lately, new house, 3 boys and a husband that keep me pretty busy, so bloggin' hasn't crossed my path lately but i sure had fun going to these sites tonite! Enjoy! Don't forget to leave me a comment- I so appreciate them!

{coincidence or not?}

2010-01-01T20:31:00.005-07:00

So, I always start with, "if you know me"....so, if you know me... you'll know that I LOVE the movie, "Somethings Gotta Give" and I love The Barefoot Contessa.....so guess what I found out tonite on my fave blog: Hooked on Houses?
My two favorites are linked together! The Hamptons deli store that Diane Keaton's character goes to is the Barefoot Contessa Deli!!! That makes me love that movie even more! Love that!!!

{color challenged}

2009-12-20T14:51:00.004-07:00

yes, you read that right. i am color challenged! If it was up to me i would have everything in neutral tones with a splash of chocolate and white tones with a smidge of red, somehow that's about the only color i can add to anything!!!. yup. i said it. it takes alot for me to work with colors. so when i came across this blog it was delightful to see color cards that didn't necessarily ask too much from me! perhaps it's because the tones were in light and soft? it was a wonderfully color inspired blogsite to come across. this is what i usually tend to go for:
but i think that's okay! i actually LOVe the third color swatch waaaay more. there i go back to comfort colors--or lack of!!!

{Motherlode Cookie Bar}{recipe}

2009-11-07T16:13:00.002-07:00

Look what i came across today-- isn't this crazy amazing??? might be a great addition to my christmas desserts this year! Stop by the picky palate and check out her recipe!

{interiors-color personality quiz}

2009-11-06T22:28:00.005-07:00

...so listen, take this quiz and tell me what interior color you are! why? because since u came to my blog wanting to read or do something....so there u are, let me know how it went! when i get 2 responses....( i know that isn't asking for much!) i will reveal my color personality quiz!---how fun is that? watch, i'm prolly just talking to myself right now and no one will take this quiz! hahaha- that's life in the slow blog lane!!!

{something's gotta give}

2009-11-04T18:33:00.004-07:00

This is one of my favourite house movies and I always pause the movie on all the interior shots! I think it's time to watch it again!

{Halloween Decorating}

2009-10-13T06:58:00.003-06:00

Here's an amazing Halloween decorating link for ya'll at one of my favourite inspiration blogs- Hostess with the Mostess!!!There's also a bunch of links under that posting with fabulous decor ideas~ Have fun decorating your homes!!!

{Halloween Paper Crafts}

2009-10-13T06:50:00.002-06:00

Go here for some cute "paper" Halloween decorating from one of my favourite paper lines!!! bOoo to YoU!!!

{Factory Direct}

2009-09-13T23:08:00.003-06:00

Thanks to a great find on the net by my sister I just bought these from Factory Direct Craft for way cheaper prices than retail. I'm so excited to get these for Christmas! You know there's only 101 days until the big day!

{Modern Country}

2009-09-10T07:04:00.003-06:00

Trying to narrow down my taste, that's all...still dreaming!!! Great little store, check 'em out here!

{...on Restoration Hardware}

2009-08-23T22:25:00.002-06:00

One can dream, right?

{Ikea Catalogue 2010}

2009-08-18T19:47:00.001-06:00

Did ya get yours? Guess what I'm doing tonite???
IF you don't have it yet, check it out online here!!!

{August Cards}

2009-08-18T19:01:00.002-06:00

{new scents}

2009-08-07T10:46:00.004-06:00

Bath & Body Works has some new scents for their hand soaps! Oh, they are lovely!
The first one is: HERB GARDEN
The second one is:FRESH LIME BASIL
The last one is: GOURMET SPICE

I went and smelled them yesterday & they are all very nice scents for your kitchen! Not too overpowering. Gourmet Spice was very "Christmas" smelling though.

Bad news...the room sprays now came in at $7 each! I was not impressed~ especially because they haven't been on sale since the store opened! Some of my favorites that were in : Autumn Apple, Sweet Cinnamon Pumpkin,The Perfect Autumn, Spiced Cider, Vanilla Caramel, Cinnamon Stick, Harvest Berry

{The Pioneer Woman}

2009-08-03T20:14:00.004-06:00

...want a great blog/website to start ( or continue ) your blogging addiction with? The Pioneer Woman has got to be the most well-rounded woman i've read on the web. her blogging speaks for itself. she has different sections: Confessions/Cooking/Photography/Home & Garden/Home Schooling. WOW! is all I can say! Have a looksie and you'll be amazed at everything she can do in a day--and that includes blogging!!! She has a new addition to her site: Tasty Kitchen dedicated to just recipes! let me know what you think!
oh and she's had Bakerella over for a baking weekend...(you'll have to scroll to the bottom of the page to find it)

{August Cards}

2009-08-02T10:24:00.000-06:00

{...is change good? again???}

2009-07-31T19:51:00.004-06:00

"The founding editor of Style at Home magazine, Gail Johnston Habs, is retiring at the end of May after 12 years with the magazine and 23 with Transcontinental Media."
so... I just finished reading the September issue of Style at Home ( if you know me, i subscribe to both Canadian H&H & Style @ Home every year) and I've just discovered that the Editor is also leaving...(i say ALSO because of my other entry about Canadian House & Home Editor Cobi Ladner leaving her position) EXCEPT i'm not sad or worried for the state of Style of Home. Why? Why? am i not having those same feelings? is it perhaps that GJH never made personal connections? is it because i never saw her making canadian appearances at Home Shows? Is it because i never saw her on Cityline or at the Jasper Park Lodge??? LOL or is it because every single time i wanted her to make a connection with me when i read her editors note she never "had me at hello"...maybe she doesn't speak Paula to me? maybe i shouldn't worry about it...but you know at least i had Cobi Ladner...she spoke to me...i guess to each his own, i just hope that the quality of magazine continues because both magazines are excellent resources.... but if you pick up this month's issue of Style at Home, which you totally should--it's AWESOME--read her final words...is it personal & touching to you??? your thots???

{cowabunga}

2009-07-31T19:01:00.006-06:00

...so i went to my local scrapbooking store, Treasured Memories, which i think has the coolest paper selection. seeing as I'm in love with My Mind's Eye Paper lately, i picked up this line called Breaking Free/Cowabunga. it's difficult sometimes making cards that aren't too cutesy & frilly, especially since I have 3 boys & they tend to go to boys parties and I'm not a pink fan! i will post some photos of the cards i made this week. i've been on holidays, and it was my personal goal to sit down & make some cards!!!

{...take my breath away}

2009-07-15T22:52:00.004-06:00

...wow...is all i can say, doesn't this kitchen just speak volumes to you? well, it does to me! over at jubella they had this as their feature today...oh my... look at that island for one...amazing & rustic to the nth degree...i can't say enuf about it! The pantry is gorgeous also...i can just imagine how much i coud store in there...then there's the flooring...take my breath away!!! okay, i'm off to stare at this photo again...do you think that might be Brad Pitt in that photo? yes, i think so...

{Holiday Ornament Swap '09}

2009-06-13T22:17:00.008-06:00

I was very thrilled when i was invited a few weeks back to a "Holiday Ornament Swap"...needless to say, you know I was online fervently looking for a super cute ornament to make. I have to make 25 of the same ornament. One for myself and 24 to giveaway...we are meeting end of November to do our exchange!!! This is the best idea I've ever heard of. Apparently it is a "select" group of women....which in all honesty makes me feel good for two reasons: I know I will love the ornaments they make & that they will appreciate my work. I've started looking around at a few ideas, so I thought I'd share with ya'll...if you have an ornament idea that speaks "paula"...lemme know about it!!!

{Amy Atlas}

2009-06-13T08:11:00.006-06:00

...WoW! Have you ever heard of her??? I just learned about Amy Atlas... I've seen many of her photos before but didn't know her name-- I absolutely love this- it's like I found a long lost toy or something like that....
She is amazing & has wonderful ideas. She also specializes in making dessert bars--"it's all about the sweets". Check out her work here!!! I love getting new inspiration!!!--for my next party!!! yes! Check out these beautiful displays & then check out her blog!

{serving dishes}

2009-06-13T07:51:00.006-06:00

I was browsing through Crate & Barrel and came across these lovelies!!! I recently acquired this 3 part square glass dish

---I LOVE it, it is replacing the one that cracked while taking it to a function. That's the only thing I find difficult---precious dishes that get chipped!!! it's so sad! I try my hardest to not chip anything but the inevitable always happens! If only there was a magic bandaid for that! or when you lend something out & it gets chipped---oh that's even harder!!! what do you say??? Anyhow, checkout these pretties....I think I could look at these all day long!!!

{Baby Shower}

2009-05-17T19:04:00.010-06:00

So, I finally got to host a baby shower & use some ideas that I've had stored over time and it was so worth it! Plus I got to make my own inspiration board tonite!!! My sister had a beautiful baby boy & he's my special little nephew!!!

I made the pom poms from Martha Stewart from scratch. The first one was a little tricky and then the others got easier & easier. I was a bit pressed for time so I made one a day and that seemed to work for my time management more. I also made the Baby Boy Banner ( already posted earlier) in one evening. I knew in my head what I wanted it to look like , so it was easy to put together. I was already in love with the paper...that always makes creativity flow. If the paper doesn't turn my crank, it is frustrating. I now only buy paper that speaks to me...why make it harder!!!

The food was inspired by several dessert bars & candy bar ( buffet style) I took some inspiration from my fave designer: Rebecca Thuss & from Oh How Charming. It worked out great. The attendees seemed to really enjoy the treats. There were parfaits, 4 types of cookies ( PB, Oatmeal raisin, Choco Chip, Double Chocolate), Caramel Apples, Cinnamon Candy Apples, Fruit kabobs, Mini Cupcakes (chocolate & vanilla mint), Caramel Popcorn, Yogurt Dipped & Chocolate dipped pretzels & Water Bottles!!!

The take home gift was homemade caramels wrapped in wax paper & put in tin wrapped bags. Loved the bags & ribbon!!! I printed a little tag with Baby G's pic & and a little "thanks for coming" note.

All in all, it worked out great. One tip I had to take note of from this shower is to give myself an extra hour for vendors who can at times make you late. I could have used just 1 hour more and i would have not been so pressed for time!!! but hey, what can you do?

I really enjoyed myself and think my sister loved it, so I was happy to have the shower for her & Baby G....btw, he was an angel!!!

{Baby Boy Banner}

2009-05-14T10:06:00.004-06:00

I made this ridiculously cute baby boy banner for my sister's baby shower. i really loved the paper, i believe it was my mind's eye paper... too cute! check out this new line they have...how adorable is that ???

{flower trend}

2009-05-14T09:39:00.003-06:00

now here's a flower trend that i can live with. first of all, i am not a "floral" person, so it's difficult for me to like things with alot of flowers....but lately i've noticed a VERY cute trend! I really like what they are doing with these: they are always layered & messy & crinkly!

{Shower Invites}

2009-05-14T09:34:00.003-06:00

So I finally made some invites that I had stored in my head for long time! I really liked how they turned out & I received some really nice compliments from the invitees! ahhhh...that's what makes it worth it!

{taking it for granted}

2009-04-20T19:46:00.005-06:00

...so i go every few days for a walk down to Bath & Body Works ( the store is on level one pretty much beneath my store!)...how lucky am i? i think that when i got home the other day and saw how my little stash is growing ..."for a rainy day"...i realized i had not even put my new babies on!!! how terrible of me!!! so here i post in my sweet shea infused fluffy socks! they are the best after a long day at work! ahhhh!!!!
These are the latest scents i've bought...they smell amazing: Island Nectar,Passionfruit & Guava and Pineapple Orchid....ooohhhh!!!

{ahhh...summer thots}

2009-03-22T08:12:00.002-06:00

i came across this inspiration board and it gave me the sweet thots & feelings of a warm summer day. i yearn for it so much in this cold & dreary time. we were supposed to start spring this past friday & all i see is snow, in fact, fresh snow on the roads this morning....so i figure that i can come back to this board & make my spirit feel summer ....at least visually for now! ahhhh, the sweet smell of summer will be here soon--i hope!

{Pom Poms}

2009-03-22T07:49:00.002-06:00

so these beauties have been around forever on the Martha Stewart website but i've never seen them made in "real life", never seen them at a party either. i have a special event i'm in charge of coming up soon, so i'm gonna give these a whirl! I think i need to start practicing soon. i know they will add a lot of flair & mostly be out of the way...they won't be taking up precious real estate on my dessert buffet table. i will post photos of my attempts soon!

{Easters}

2009-02-25T18:51:00.004-07:00

Yes, i added an "s"on Easter, as it reminded me of Nacho Libre....anywho, at the moment i was supposed to be researching for two other events coming up in my life, but i came across this cute easters inspiration board at one of my favorite blogs: Tastefully Entertaining. it's showing ideas on having an easter egg decorating party. sounds fun to me! but i better get back to researching...

{pearl}

2009-02-12T09:45:00.003-07:00

this is the most elegant bracelet, I really want it! it's found here.

{Fortune Cookies}

2009-01-16T22:54:00.002-07:00

I just found a really pretty idea for Valentines! It starts out at An Altered state of Mind... and then sends you to the ehow tutorial...I like the idea that i can personalize it to each of my family. I can send them in their lunches on V-Day! How fun is that?

{banner}

2009-01-08T14:44:00.001-07:00

did you notice my new banner? my 12 year old son made that for me! i just told him i love chocolate brown & mac's...and that's what he came up with! i love how he totally captured "me"...i absolutely love it & will cherish it everytime i open my blog..what do ya think?

{Southern Weddings}

2009-01-08T13:26:00.003-07:00

so i think i've been missing photographing weddings, winter is when we book our weddings mostly, so i took a peek over at Southern Weddings- my most favorite inspirational wedding blog that i love to look at & get ideas from. they have this beautiful inspiration board filled with centerpiece ideas. i've seen many of them before though, so that wasn't inspiring. in fact, i'm starting to see this trend in many blogs, some ideas are re-hashed over & over again. i guess it's because my intent is always finding something new & fresh. anyhow, this still fills my need for a wedding fix!!! enjoy.

{Gingered Lemon Bars}

2009-01-07T22:26:00.005-07:00

Since my time is limited lately I want to plan ahead a few events, I have a few this Spring, so I thot i might start trying out a few recipes so they can be in place for the Spring. Not a bad idea, huh? I've learned from experience that one must NOT try new recipes right before an event, there's just too much pressure & stress, I like to check out some recipes that "sound" yummy & then give 'em a try, if there's nothing left on the plate the next day then i know it's a success!!! Having 3 boys & a husband helps!!! So this Gingered Lemon Bars recipe "sounds" delish; we love to cook with ginger & are already lemon bar lovers around here, i had never thot of the two together, so we'll give 'em a shot! I like this site 'cause I think it's "for reals" ...real people in this family that have made & experimented with the recipes they post, not just another database of recipes who knows has submitted!

{Lisa Leonard}

2009-01-07T13:14:00.002-07:00

I'm totally loving her work & designs...especially the little pearl attached to the necklaces....hmmm..must pass this one along! Check out Lisa Leonard here!

{Rebecca Thuss- post #2}

2009-01-02T08:46:00.006-07:00

I absolutely love it when i stumble accross a fabulous site & article that find myself ignoring everything else around me & staring into the computer like a love struck puppy! Who knew? Well, This morning I was....actually now I can't remember where I was, but came accross a new blog: the bride's cafe and in that blog was a two part guest interview with Rebecca Thuss, my most favorite stylist!!! The interview had some gorgeous photographs of her work & some upcoming news about her & this blurred photograph of her. It's difficult to find her photograph, so I feel complete now that I know what she looks like! I LOVE her work as it is my style & speaks so much to me. Enjoy!

{New Year's Resolution}

2008-12-31T20:19:00.003-07:00

I pledge to create a wrapping station in the year 2009!!! I know, a bit selfish, but whatever!!!
Happy New Year everyone!

{pretty little things}

2008-12-13T15:45:00.003-07:00

...as i was checking out the little window shoppe, they featured an etsy store: pretty little things & i love these upcycled bows~ i wanna make some NOW! the crafter made these out of the paper from a catalogue from the the paper source, how clever!

i {heart} peppermint bark...

2008-12-11T08:26:00.000-07:00

...need i say more???

{pretty things}

2008-12-08T09:09:00.004-07:00

i've been so busy but thrilled with the fact that my blog was searched for on google, ah, my moment came! i've been so overwhelmed with changes in my life lately that i've had no time to post, but i guess all things have their time. this morning i was missing posting so i headed over to PB, my most fave store! and ga-ga'd over all their beautiful christmas ideas.

on another note, i love RED & GREEN! it speaks christmas to me. a rich red though not the candy-cane red. the last issue of Style at Home disappointed me, it was all about not decorating in the traditional colors, but rather violet, blues & whites...that speaks stark & cold to me not warm & inviting. perhaps it's because i decorate with my kids in mind more than an adult atmosphere, i feel it's all about them really, i could watch them open presents all day! which will be the case anyway!

on the weekend we attended a special musical performance and that christmas tear came down my cheek. i was waiting for that special moment that starts the season for me. it happens every year & it warms my heart. i feel the love of the christmas season in my heart & it makes me utterly speechless! now, that doesn't happen to me often but so look forward to it!
So I hope you search for the spirit of the season in whatever form touches you the most!
Happy Christmas to you & yours!
~Paula

{strawberry heaven}

2008-11-18T12:44:00.005-07:00

...now why haven't we made these beauties? why just chocolate dipped when you can ROLL them in just about anything else that makes you go ga-ga??? i found these here....this is being filed away for the next baby or bridal shower I have to do!!! excuse me while I go wipe my drool....hahaha

{on ETSY}

2008-11-17T00:40:00.003-07:00

so i was blog browsing a bit tonite & landed on etsy...i knew about it, but really haven't bothered to look thru it, as I can sew & make just about anything...i know, bragging isn't attractive, but i really liked a few things that weren't "sewn" rather knitted or handmade jewlery.... i really liked this "cross my heart wrap" in the above pic. how cute is that??? V-E-R-Y !!!

{update: i made the banner...}

2008-11-09T06:47:00.006-07:00

so, i made the halloween banner i had found last year on this blog. it was easy to make & i think i will make smaller ones for other occasions & hang them by the front door. i did feel it was nice to have a banner that was homemade versus a cheesy store bought one, but who has the time to make one, everytime? i actually ran out of time looking for black beads & black tulle, so it's not decorated as much as the sample one. i got lots of compliments, as it was something a bit different. that's my goal always, for it to be unique & a little different than the norm. anyway, i had fun making it & will make a cute mini one for Christmas for the front entrance, if i have the time!!!

{pillow, anyone?}

2008-11-07T19:29:00.004-07:00

...i'm on a sharing streak tonite! (killing some time before i have to run around & pick up kids, etc) i just found the most ridiculously cute pillow....check it out here ! not sure if i'll get it, it's only "starting at $134 dollars"... seriously , who would pay such a ridiculous amount of money...I predict you will see replicas of this in the near future~ yup, i'm psychic ~

{please be mine!}

2008-11-07T16:51:00.006-07:00

okay, that didn't take me long! i just found something i want for Christmas, for all those of you that have me on your list, all 3 people who read my pathetic blog! hahahaha, so here it is! the Butler Bag! Oh my goodness, I almost fell off my chair, I love an organized bag & I am continously cleaning mine out of clutter, oh, this is fabulous!!! let me go back & look at it {and drool}...

I just added the red one, oh my, i'm in love!

{gift giving}

2008-11-07T16:23:00.006-07:00

...at least just thinking about it! I have this problem, I think about really cool things for people on my list throughout the year & then I either forget or they get the item before Christmas. So I was looking for inspiration online and went to one of the first places I went to when the internet first started....I was watching Oprah's first ever "Oprah's favorite things giveaway" episode (when I used to watch Oprah!) anyhow, it was Red Envelope....they are so cool, they wrap all the presents in red boxes with a beautiful ivory grosgrain ribbon...ahhhh! beautiful! sidenote: One year I wrapped all my presents ( except kiddie ones) in Kraft paper with raffia, it was awesome! I must do that again!) Anyhow, there's also gifts.com for ideas...well, I'm stuck on what to get for a few people, so I better keep looking for some cool & unique ideas! Best of luck with your shopping!!!

{PB Design Library}

2008-11-01T12:21:00.005-06:00

I ordered this Pottery Barn Design Library months ago & have them in my possession now. I haven't had a quiet moment yet to enjoy them but I will this weekend~ so excited!!!

{food tv for kids}

2008-10-26T19:36:00.003-06:00

So, I just came across that Food Network Canada has a kids site. They have listed menus, articles, parties & videos. I like it! It's a cute site with lotsa kids & babies ideas.

{gingerbread skeletons & bleeding hearts & scary pumpkins}

2008-10-22T08:08:00.006-06:00

...different (something i'm always looking for) & very cute halloween ideas i saw over at craftzine.com

{on organizing}

2008-10-21T12:54:00.005-06:00

just thinking about great entryways as i'm starting to dig out the winter accessories that everyone needs...where to put it all!!! and when they all come home...where to put it all!! it's amazing how we have to have clothing and accessories for 4 seasons in Canada. Canada i think has the reputation of just being cold all the time...which by this summer's standards we were living in California. From +38C to -38C....that's a lot of clothing changes in between!

{Sur La Table}

2008-10-15T09:05:00.007-06:00

...it was one of the first french phrases i learned in school! i felt so "french" when I'd say it! silly, i know! A new & exciting site for me, is it new for you?..sur la table.. so what is it about an american store that is unaccessable to canada that i find so intriguing? (you know, PB & WS)....and then they grace us with their presence years later when they get wind that canadians WANT them!!! is it about the ...the grass being greener on the other side syndrome??? anyhow, this is a great site and they have a new baking blog also that you can check out....enjoy!

Update: {Barefoot in tha house!}

2008-10-14T15:06:00.006-06:00

Looky @ what was in my email inbox today!!! A new show & a Christmas Special!!! It was as good as Christmas morning for me!

Dear Paula,

It's that time again! My new book, Barefoot Contessa Back to Basics is coming out on October 28th. I think this may be my favorite book yet - it's all about how to get great flavor from simple ingredients.

When I'm writing recipes, what really interests me is how to get the most flavor in a dish. How can I make chicken taste like the best chicken you've ever eaten? What can I serve with this pear to bring out it's sweetness? What can I add to chocolate (like coffee) that will give the chocolate great depth of flavor? Each recipe in this book has that secret process or ingredient that will make your cooking the best ever.

In addition to my new book, I have a new TV series on Food Network - also called Barefoot Contessa Back to Basics with lots of great new recipes and some exciting parties. Don't miss Saturday, December 13th when my friend Susan Stroman and I give a party for the cast of her hit Broadway musical Young Frankenstein. It was such fun!

If you'd like to order signed books, get a recipe from the new book, or check out my upcoming book tour please go to BarefootContessa.com

Have a happy and healthy holiday season!

Love, Ina

{Barefoot Contessa}

2008-10-07T21:41:00.005-06:00

So today I read that Ina Garten has a new cookbook coming out October 28th! I'm so excited....I love her cookbooks....they are great recipes & turn out awesome!!! If you go to her website you can get an autographed copy for $35. I look forward to reviewing her book.

{fro yo}

2008-10-05T18:36:00.006-06:00

so it seems like the CUPCAKE craze is coming to an end...according to the Vanilla Garlic blog!!! Go on over and have a read! The new craze is predicted to be frozen yogurt.....hmmm...can i really serve that at a kids party & have them go "ga-ga" over delicious over decorated theme cupcakes??? i think not!!! i really don't think it will have the same impact--hahaha...i think you'll agree with me...just like cake, i think the cupcake will always be popular & will always have a home at parties & get-togethers!

{Rebecca Thuss}

2008-10-03T13:00:00.005-06:00

...for those of you who know me & my little quirks, know that I have a binder full of ideas cut out of magazines(it's my way of not keeping a ton of magazines around, instead I keep great ideas in page protectors). It's been lent to a few select....hahahaha...but today as I was looking for some cute favor ideas for an upcoming birthday party, I came across Rebecca Thuss' website! I found many of the old Martha Stewart pages I have cut out in her portfolio....so I was a fan of hers & I didn't know the stylists name!!! teaches me to read who the stylists are in magazines rather than assume that it was all "martha"! Take a look at her portfolio, it's amazing- enjoy!!!

...'29 Buick

2008-09-28T22:38:00.005-06:00

look who showed up to be photographed at one of our weddings we shot this weekend! a gorgeous '29 Buick...it was amazingly beautiful...

"...how do ya like them apples?"

2008-09-24T08:51:00.009-06:00

so many apples so little time!!! i'm trying to decide what to do with all these apples ( besides candy apples!!!) my dad brought me, in fact, he just brought me another batch of green apples. Should I make pie filling? frozen or jarred? help! i'm doing a bit of internet research...please leave me your suggestions!!! BTW, I luv my photos...don't you???

...halloween apples!!!

2008-09-23T17:20:00.005-06:00

Look what I just need to re-create!!! over at Williams & Sonoma !!! delectable or what??? I say re-create because I would NEVER pay $22.50 for ONE!!! (i had to read the price twice!!!)

...Skor Cake

2008-09-22T09:51:00.006-06:00

Skor Cake

1 chocolate cake mix
1 12-16 oz bottle of caramel (the squeezable kind that you top ice cream sundaes with).
1 14 0z can of sweetened condensed milk
1 Bag of Skor bits
one container of cool whip

Make the cake mix as directed. Once it is done baking, pull it out of the oven and poke slits all over the top of the cake using the bottom of a knife handle, do not poke all the way to the bottom of the cake. Pour the caramel and the condensed milk all over the top and over the slits. Then spread the Cool Whip over the top and put the cake into the fridge to cool. Let cool for about an hour before serving! ENJOY!

...to the parents who read this blog...

2008-09-21T18:02:00.004-06:00

Today I had a mini epiphany...i made a vege based meal to ladle over rice....i wasn't sure if the boys would respond quite happily toward it BUT i discovered as we came home from 3 hours of church, they were famished! there weren't any snacks readily available, so when it came to Lupper, as we refer to as lunch & supper at 1:00pm....they gobbled it up!!! so, my tip for you is serve your veges when they are Starving!!! it worked for me...

...Bath & Body Works

2008-09-16T20:50:00.007-06:00

YES! it was good for me!!! I sprayed every new scent around our home last night, trying a new scent in every room!!! I even smell good thanks to my new lotions. I wondered if I would feel weird going in there ( for those who don't know, I was offered the General Store Manager position at B&BW@ WEM ...long story) or feel jealous...but I didn't! thank goodness! I thoroughly enjoyed the store, found it small for the demand there is for it & missing product lines but overall a beautiful store. There are many stores to be built in western Canada in the next 2 years...so they are coming to your city soon!!! Above is my collage of new products I treated myself to!!! It was good for me....it was pure pleasure...yes, i'm talking about lotion & sprays!!!

...is change good?

2008-09-13T18:28:00.008-06:00

{...feeling sad} I just read through my Canadian House & Home Issue for October, specifically the Editor's Page, which I always start with. The issue was beautiful, articulate & chockful of gorgeous photographs, that's what I can count on...at least for the last 20 years that I've followed Cobi Ladner as Editor in Chief of this fabulous magazine. There are many times when I've walked up & down the aisles of Chapters in search of a similar magazine but I can not find one among all the American & European grandious magazines that compares to Canadian House & Home. It's been a staple, in my home for many, many years, introducing it to friends and my younger sister as she started to read Home magazines as she out grew her fad & fashion mags....Did I mention I'm a magaholic? I know the ones that fulfill my requirements and H&H is one of them. It's taught me lots & hope that it doesn't lose it's charm!

{going off on a tangent now} I'm feeling sad because the same happened to me & the Great One known as Martha. She completely lost her appeal...at least for me. Once her show changed to live & chaotic & full of celebrities who look like fish out of water...the charm was gone. I rarely watch her show now. I loved how calculated her show was, how she didn't stutter, how well produced & photographed it was, how the music soothed my senses & how each every homemaking skill was taught with such finesse....change was not good, in my opinion.

{...back to H&H} I have watched the newly appointed EIC for H&H and she has not impressed me thus far in her career. I hope that it doesn't translate into the H&H Magazine....I guess we'll see in the coming issues if change is good!!!

Premium News Service | RSS
10 June 2008, TORONTO
Cobi Ladner talks about leaving Canadian House & Home

Cobi Ladner will end her tenure as Canadian House & Home editor on June 24.
When Cobi Ladner was first hired at Canadian House & Home in 1990, she was the sole decorating editor on a staff of five. Today, the magazine boasts one of the largest editorial staffs in the country (25 in editorial, 12 in design), a readership of 2.5 million and a paid circulation that has more than doubled in size since owner/publisher Lynda Reeves took the magazine over in 1986.

“We’ve grown and grown and it’s sort of on its way now,” says Ladner, who debuted as editor-in-chief with the Feb/March 1993 issue, “and it doesn’t need its mother as much.” Ladner, 46, has decided to leave the editorial nest of H&H on June 24. She plans on taking the summer to recharge, spending plenty of time with her two young children and caring for her recently widowed mother. After that, “the possibilities are wide open.”

While Ladner says her decision to leave was amiable (she will consult for the magazine until the end of year and says, “I want this place to do really well without me”), she admits that some on the H&H team were shaken by the news. “One of the design editors said it felt like her parents were splitting up,” she says. “Everybody wants to understand why.”

Both personal and professional reasons were at play, Ladner says. She lost her father, Eric Ladner, to an aneurysm in February. “He was a great mentor to me,” Ladner says. “He gave me many great words of wisdom, one of them being, ‘Don’t follow your dreams, live them.’” She hasn’t quite decided what that next dream will be, at least when it comes to her work, though she does expect a return to the area of lifestyle and home décor. “I just want the chance to do something else in my lifetime.”

As for her proudest accomplishments, Ladner is particularly proud of the team she’s managed to build at H&H. “We have always put editorial first and I’m glad for that,” she says. “I feel like we’re often a training ground for many of the other magazines around town.” She’s also felt rewarded by the connection she’s been able to make with readers through the magazine. “We never win any National Magazine Awards, and yet…a day doesn’t go by when a Canadian doesn’t say to me, ‘Canadian House & Home’ is my favourite magazine.”

Delicious Desserts....which one??? or all???

2008-09-06T18:15:00.008-06:00

I have a dinner party coming up and looked up one of my fave blogs: Tastefully Entertaining & guess what they had for me to look at? this beautiful inspiration board of desserts with links to the recipes!...what a spread!!! I have some work cut out for me! I'm going to choose one of these new recipes to try out, which one do you think I'll make? hmmmm....don't they look delicious?
- Mint Chocolate Cheesecake
- Little Lemon Meringue Pies
- Blueberry Cream Cheese Tart
- Sunset Shortcake
- Hazelnut Cookies
- Chocolate Truffles

"All Hallows Eve"

2008-09-05T17:54:00.006-06:00

I want to make this, I saw it last year and kept the link, it looks so awesome, so not "store-bought". Tonite I also came accross some small tags that would make cute backgrounds for a mini-garland for my front entrance as well as a large one for my mantle. I'm excited for Halloween this year....well, excited-once again!!!

I’ve been tagged!

2008-09-03T08:27:00.007-06:00

I’ve been tagged! This is a first for me ;-)
Thanks Jamie!

My 3 Joys:
•My husband & my 3 boys
•My extended family
•My 24" iMac-hahaha!!!

My 3 Fears:
•Being outside in the dark at night alone
•Losing someone's Wedding Photography!!!
•Critical illness

My 3 Current Obsessions:
•KitKat Chunky
•Brad Pitt
•Stampin Up

My 3 Surprising Facts:
•i never return movies on time!
•i can't make a good pie crust!
•i love Pacman!

I Tag: Karla, Lindy

Spooky Sweets

2008-09-01T15:10:00.006-06:00

I thot these Spooky Sweets were pretty cute. I REALLY love Halloween! I think I will give these a try!!! I think it would make a cute teacher treat or a treat to drop off to friends...mmmm...i likey!!! sOrRy... but you'll probably be seeing lotsa Halloween inspired tricks & treats!!!muahahaaa!!!

B&B Wedding Shoot

2008-08-25T08:30:00.010-06:00

We just shot a gorgeous outdoor wedding at this location! This is a Bed & Breakfast called Country Wildflower Bed and Breakfast in Leduc.....I'd have to say it has to Alberta's best kept secret. We offered to do Architectural photos for her website & the owner says to us that they are sooooo busy & booked up that they couldn't handle being on the internet!!! Her business is purely word of mouth! WOW! is all I could think when we drove up to this hidden gem!!! It was absolutely amazing....the inside was incredible....made me speechless. Once we release wedding photos to the couple, I will post more from this fabulous wedding. I luv it when people do something out of the ordinary.....it really does make their wedding day extraordinary!!!

Banana Bread Recipe...

2008-08-20T17:05:00.016-06:00

So here's my favorite recipe from Best of Bridge (thanks "K") I adapted it a bit but this is basically the recipe I started with. Start with this & you'll be guaranteed a sweet & moist banana bread....not dry or grainy at all. I guess since it was a lot cooler outside I had thots of actually turning my oven on!!! so here's to the best banana bread recipe---at least i think so! and so does one of my nieces & sister who have both tried it & were successful!! mmmm,mmm.....lemme know if you make it!!! or better yet, leave me your recipe so everyone can have a peek! you can add chocolate chips, fruit & or nuts to the recipe! I make mine with crushed pineapple--can you say --deelish!!!

SU.....

2008-08-15T08:06:00.007-06:00

so i've been going through the new fall Stampin' Up! Catalogue (which you can download here) and there MANY beautiful stamps there. i think when things slow down with shooting weddings i might consider becoming a demonstrator. i've never considered it with any other company but I am becoming more fond of this company & their style. It does get a bit "cookie cutter'ish" but I try to keep my cards fresh & different. Once you look at one demo's cards & another's, they seem to look all the same, that's the only thing i don't like....maybe they are trying to appear "similar" to the catalogue....i dunno...anyhow, i love the variety & uniqueness of their stamps....but i still luv my stickers more!!! which do you prefer?

it's a crock...

2008-08-13T21:58:00.007-06:00

I just went to a fab store! It's A Crock Country Store and they have a new furniture showroom : A Chip off the Old Crock I'll take one of each, thankyou! I have a few friends that would love these stores- you know who you are!!! It made me look forward to all those Fall events that are so much fun...Birthdays, Thanksgiving, Halloween, Corn-busts, Fall BBQ's & most of all--Back to school!!!hahaha! I look forward to the decorating & the parties, don't you???

ikea...

2008-08-11T08:50:00.007-06:00

...so I'm done perusing through my ikea catalogue, it now has lots of post it note tabs for future referencing. i made this inspiration board to keep for future reference. did you notice it's all white? this is my fantasy craft room! i'd love to one day have a room whose sole purpose is CRAFTING. I would have it be all white. i think that all the card stock & paper needs a white background. From the top left: Love the white bookcase with clear glass doors, love the white desk with white accessories and small white cabinet on wheels. Third photo has same white desk acnhored by 2 bookshelves that's stunning! another option for a desk would be the glass top desk...hmmmm.... i had to sneak in this white dressing table for my bedroom! and my final wish would be to have a white sofa & coffee table to take breaks in my craft room sans kids!!! ahhhh...i luv this catalogue!!! now back to reality....what's your favorite page in the catalogue? you can see the entire catalogue at www.ikea.ca

5 Point Star Card

2008-08-09T09:41:00.003-06:00

about IKEA....

2008-08-08T12:46:00.001-06:00

did ya get yours????

about Cake Stands...

2008-08-07T16:31:00.007-06:00

So, summer holidays really throw the schedule right out the door, don't they? I feel like the days are going fast & it seems to be hotter outside every year now!!! I was doing a bit of cleaning, but found it was too difficult to even start doing anything, I think I will leave detailed cleaning to September when kids are in school & I have more time to myself. But I did come across my collection of Cake Stands that I started last Christmas. I don't have time to photograph them right now, but I will on a later post. I decided on collecting White & Ceramic stands, so far I have 1 round, 1 square & two Square '3 tier' stands! I absolutely love to look at them & they are such a treat to display when having dinners, parties & luncheons. I hope to keep expanding my collection. I've never really collected anything but have watched my father collect many things. Is it because I'm getting older??? I have to wonder!

A's Card

2008-08-04T08:48:00.004-06:00

I made this card last week for a special person in our lives....she's awesome!!!

Pancake Lens!

2008-08-02T17:49:00.007-06:00

Well, let me share a little experience I just went through. I've been complaining that our professional cameras are too heavy & too big & wah wah wah....you get what i was saying....so Steve & I decided we'd try out a point & shoot camera, a 10MP Lumix with a nice Leica Lens....we took it on our family reunion, but I totally didn't like the lag it had---it seemed sooo slow, that I often caught the 2 second "later" reaction shot that I was looking for---it was SO frustrating, so limiting. Never-mind the color was awful & the convenience wasn't as awesome as I thought!!! I was soooo dissapointed when I got home! So, instead, Steve bought me a Pancake Lens for our one camera aka Olympus Zuiko 25 mm f2.8 Pancake Lens...it's so cute! It makes my camera just as compact as the point & shoot crap I bought!! The color is amazing, very sharp details & beautiful skin tones!!! I'm in love, there's no going back now, I just had to get it out of my system that a compact camera is what I thought I wanted!!! Hindsight you say??? Sometimes we just gotta learn the hard way, good thing there's great return policy's out there!!!

FF#3 It's time to relax...

2008-07-25T20:32:00.003-06:00

TThots #3 Animator vs. Animation

2008-07-25T20:29:00.004-06:00

I came across this , it's clever, hilarious & takes a minute or two to watch. You can turn on your volume as well.
Very, very clever!! I luv it!

WW#3

2008-07-23T09:23:00.003-06:00

Take a look at this wedding we shot...it was an intimate affair & so suitable for the couple. They were fabulous to shoot & we had an awesome time!!!

TT#3 Cupcake Pops

2008-07-22T07:04:00.003-06:00

I found these Cupcake Pops (scroll down to April 14,2008) a few months ago, she was featured on Martha's Cupcake week. I haven't made them, but I wanted to share them so we can share notes!!! They are so cute!!! I can't wait to make them--I haven't met anyone that's made them, so let me know if you try them! Here's the video link when she was on Martha actually making them. Enjoy!

MOM#3

2008-07-21T08:28:00.001-06:00

Still loving the chocolate brown & celery greens!!!