From Lazy to Lady

My "New Normal"

2011-12-28T00:45:00.002-05:00

I have been in an awful mood all day. All week really, and while I thought it was b/c it was the first Christmas since my mom passed away, I realized that wasn't really it. It's b/c the 29th marks 6 months since my mom died.
"my mom died" is still such a weird thing to say. doesn't feel real. yet, after 6 months it is slowly becoming the "new normal" that everyone told me to expect.
"Nothing will ever be the same, nothing will ever be normal ever again. You'll find a new normal."
I hated those people. Yet... 6 months later and here it is.
Normal or "new normal" doesn't mean what I thought they meant. I am not happy, I am not okay, I am sure as hell not over it.

Let me tell you a little bit about my new normal.

Crying. It has become perfectly normal to cry every single day for 6 months straight.
I have come to realize that what I thought was anxiety and panic attacks was really just the tip of the iceberg. Anxiety levels of about a 6 have become my "new normal"
It's now normal to feel like no one on the entire planet can possibly understand what has happened.
Fear of phone calls and the inability to reach someone by phone for fear that it means something horrible has happened is totally normal. ( I think I finally understand why my mother in law always answers the phone with "what happened??")
Accepting that i'm totally helpless and cannot protect or save anyone or anything I love, normal.
People looking at me with *that* look, the "that poor girl" look has become normal.
People appologizing for saying the words "mom, mother, mommy" is also part of my new normal.

This list could go on forever, and I'm not trying to worry anyone or get sympathy from anyone. I'm sure that eventually there will be another "new normal" for me. But people were right, eventually a new routine starts to develop and that's okay. It doesn't mean you don't love the person or miss them with all your heart, it means you have gotten some of their strength to help you through. You do what you have to do to survive. Grief comes in waves, some are bigger and stronger than others, but when you hit the crest of the biggest and scariest wave, you can see the miles of calm ocean behind it and know that you'll make it through.

For all of you who have lost someone close to you, I am so desperately sorry for your loss. I'd love it if you'd be willing to share a few words about them, or about your grief process in the comments or if you'd prefer, by email. No normal, new or otherwise, is doable without support.

Are you my mother?

2011-12-20T00:33:00.000-05:00

As my loyal readers can tell you, my baby girl Jasmine has had a bit of an identity crisis since she was a puppy. People have always compared her to a deer, and well, sometimes she gets confused. Last year we sent out a Christmas card with her next to her favorite thing in the apartment. A stuffed deer that she would lay next to, cuddle with, and drag around the apartment. (being an antique collectible deer we put a stop to the dragging right away.) I added antlers to her in this photo but even without them, the likeness is undeniable.

This year, Jasmine is a little bit older, and I thought maybe just maybe this would be the right time to introduce her to some of her "family" members. She was very excited and super well behaved and while I didn't get any amazing photos, I did capture a couple of cute moments.

Jasmine meeting Comet and Prancer:

Have your children ever met a real life reindeer?

The New Me!

2011-12-04T23:06:00.000-05:00

The past 6 months have been... trying, to say the least. So much has changed and a lot of the time it has felt like things were spinning completely out of control. When I start to feel like I've lost control of my life I have a long standing habit of changing the one thing I have complete control of. My hair. Usually I just dye it, or cut it, but under the circumstances neither of those seemed like enough. SO, I chopped it all off and dyed it red.

What do you think?

Oh, and I've also started getting my nails done again. I always feel much more lady like when my nails are done.

What do you do when the world seems to be getting a little too chaotic?

Last Minute Thanksgiving Dessert Recipe

2011-11-23T20:49:00.000-05:00

This recipe is super easy and SUPER DUPER yummy. A coworker brought these in a few weeks ago and I immediately scooped up her recipe so THANK YOU Gina for helping me discover my new favorite dessert.

INGREDIENTS

1 box (19.5 oz) fudge brownie mix

1/2 cup vegetable oil

1/4 cup water

2 eggs

1/4 cup butter

1/4 cup milk

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup packed brown sugar

1/2 cup coarsely chopped pecans

1/2 teaspoon vanilla

1 roll (16.5 oz) refrigerated chocolate chip cookies

DIRECTIONS

1. Heat oven to 350°F (325°F for dark pan). Spray 13x9-inch pan with cooking spray. Make brownie mix as directed on box using oil, water and eggs. Spread batter evenly in pan. Bake 25 minutes.

2. Meanwhile, in 2-quart saucepan, heat butter, milk, granulated sugar, brown sugar, pecans and vanilla to boiling over medium heat, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to medium-low; simmer 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat; set aside until brownies are baked.

3. Immediately pour praline mixture evenly over partially baked brownies. Cut cookie dough crosswise into 4 equal pieces; cut each piece into 4 slices. Carefully place slices in 3 rows of 5 slices each, using last slice to fill in spaces. (Spaces between cookie dough pieces will spread during baking to cover top.)

4. Bake 23 to 28 minutes longer or until cookie topping is deep golden brown. If serving as bars, cool 2 hours; cut into 6 rows by 4 rows. If serving with ice cream as dessert, cool 20 to 30 minutes; cut into 4 rows by 3 rows.

You can learn a lot about a person...

2011-11-05T14:26:00.002-04:00

by looking at the top three highest priority items on their Amazon wish list.

These are mine.

Show me yours!

2011-11-03T09:45:00.002-04:00

I made a very big decision a few weeks ago. I decided to follow a star and take a chance on a dream. Maybe wishes can come true like my pal Jiminy Cricket says...

For years, I have been the "Disney go to gal" for friends and family (and even their friends) who were planning a trip to Walt Disney World, or who had questions about the parks and resorts in general. My family loving refers to me as the "Disney freak in the family" and I'm a self proclaimed "Disney Junkie".

I had started my Lady In Wonderland blog as a way to make productive use of my love and knowledge of all things Disney. It has been so much fun sharing my finds, deals, and photos with everyone. I love sharing our stories and experiences at the parks and hotels. Yet, it just didn't seem to fill the space I was looking for. I don't know how to explain it, but something just felt "off" or like it was missing.

Since my mom passed away I have been thinking a LOT about things I could have done, should have done, how life is so short, and that I'm wasting my potential and about how I wish I could have done something by now that she could have been proud of job wise.

Then, in a dream it hit me. I spoke to my husband as soon as I woke up, talked to some friends, and within days I had found my calling.

I am so excited, and proud to announce that I am officially an approved Disney Vacation Planner.

I'm an independent travel consultant for MickeyVacations.com. I finished the Disney training last week and ordered my marketing materials today.

I figured the best place to share this kind of news would be with fellow Disney lovers because you'll understand just how much it means to be "official".

If you have any questions about Disney World, Disneyland, the Disney Cruise Line, or Adventures by Disney, PLEASE do not hesitate to ask. If you'd like to book a vacation, I'd be happy to help, but if you just have questions, that is fine too. I will be sharing the special offers I receive over on my Lady In Wonderland blog as well as on my website and Facebook page. I would really appreciate it if you liked the Facebook page and told your friends and family to do the same.

Thank you for all of your support! I look forward to taking this next step on my journey and I'm glad you can all come along for the ride.

With Facebook Friends, Who Needs Enemies??

2011-10-23T01:28:00.001-04:00

I am normally the person who laughs at Facebook drama and tells people to get over it b/c it's just not that serious. It's true, it's not. But sometimes, even though it's only on Facebook, the drama can hurt.

I think it's b/c Facebook uses the word "Friends" to describe the people on your list even though for most people, most of the members of their friends list are really nothing more than acquaintances or work friends.

I have been very picky about who I add to my friends list b/c of this. I won't add people just b/c they play the same game as me, and I don't add people I went to high school with just b/c they decided to be nice to me for the 20 seconds it took to write a hello and click "add friend".

SO, it really hurts me and offends me that someone I consider a friend felt the need to report one (or more) of my photos to the powers that be at Facebook. Apparently, my photo offended them to the point where they accused me of violating Facebook's Terms of Service.

While investigating the matter my account is not allowed to upload photos, or tag photos. If the photo is found to be in violation, they will delete it without notice. If I am in "extreme violation of the terms of service" they "reserve the right to terminate" my account on "a permanent basis."

I'm not really worried that the photo will be deleted, b/c I read and reread the terms and I do not believe it violates any of them. I am however upset that instead of just ignoring the tiny little thumbnail that has been my profile picture for weeks, someone I care about, had to go and "narc" on me. I am 99.9% sure that I know who it was and it's just so ridiculous that I roll my eyes just thinking about them.

The worst part is, I would like to remove them from my list b/c they do not fit my definition of the word friend, but if it's who I think it is, deleting them would just cause more actual drama and it's not worth it.

This is the photo. Warning: Some people may be offended. There is FAKE blood. A lot of FAKE blood. It's jello and cranberries and was very very yummy. The photo was taken right after my bffl and I filmed scenes for the documentary Zombies: A Living History which airs on The History Channel Tuesday October 25th at 8:00PM.

Would you have reported this photo? Do you think I'm over reacting? I'd love some feedback on this.

I've fallen and I can't get up!

2011-10-20T23:21:00.002-04:00

Well, let's make that back on track instead of fallen.

I have not only neglected my blog and my readers the past few months, I have neglected all of the good habits I formed and have given into the Lazyness once again.

Being depressed and exhausted can no longer control my life.

I want my apartment back!!

Starting Saturday, I am going to get back on track with my blog, my chores, and my healthy routines.

I hope my readers and friends will continue to be there to support me.

First goal: Have a shiny sink by bedtime Saturday.

Lady In Wonderland: My Memories Suite - Scrapbook Software Review & Gi...

2011-09-10T00:29:00.000-04:00

Lady In Wonderland: My Memories Suite - Scrapbook Software Review & Gi...: As Disney lovers I am sure you can relate to this dilema... having TONS of amazing photos from vacations but not knowing what to do with the...

Giveaway Posted!

2011-09-03T21:54:00.000-04:00

As a reminder, I have a giveaway going on at my other blog. It was just posted today. I am very excited about it and would love it if you entered.
You can find the full details HERE.

The giveaway is for digital scrapbooking software. It is super simple to use and within the first 5 minutes of using the program I had already created this page in honor of my mother...

Review & Giveaway worth $40!

2011-09-03T17:19:00.000-04:00

Hello everyone! I have a great opportunity to review an awesome digital scrapbooking software program over on my other blog Lady In Wonderland.

I will be reviewing the software this week and giving away a promo code that will allow you download the software for FREE. It is valued at $39.95.

I hope that you'll all come follow the blog in order to stay updated and for your chance to win. The contest will only be available for followers of Lady In Wonderland.

Even if you're not interested in the giveaway, I'd love if you followed that blog. It's a Disney and Alice in Wonderland themed blog with great travel tips and shopping deals. Plus lots of photos of Disney World!

The scrapbook software is a great way to make personalized photo albums and calendars with all of your own photographs of your children, pets, and more! You can save $10 now by using the promo code below created specifically for my blog readers.

If you already use the software, or end up downloading it, please share some of your creations with me and my readers!

Big Waves Don't Mean You Are Going to Drown

2011-08-20T23:01:00.001-04:00

My nephew Brady's birthday party today. It was fabulous and I ate way too much delicious food. My sister in law makes the most amazing home made mac & cheese. I promise to get the recipe to share it with you at a later date. I got to spend time with adorable kids and get lots of sticky hugs and kisses. I got to wish my oldest niece a happy 17th birthday (which was bittersweet all on it's own, where did my little girl who hid under the table eating cookies go and who is this young woman who took her place!?!?).

I had fun, but my heart could not ignore the fact that someone was missing.

To make it even harder, today is the anniversary of the day that Tango went into the emergency clinic. Tonight around 3am will be the anniversary of his death. My heart is breaking all over again just thinking about him. If you are new to this blog, Tango was the best little dog in the world. He WAS my world. You can read about his passing and the impact it had on me here. You can see 5 awesome photos of him here.

I made the decision to see a grief counselor to help me learn how to cope with my mom's death. She told me that grief is like waves, some waves are bigger than others, but that doesn't mean we have to drown. She also reminded me that waves come in, but then they go out. Sometimes they are big, and sometimes they are small. I realized that waves even if they are tiny, always hit the shore, so the grief will never go away, but at some point it will be managable. Well, today was like a tsunami. I wasn't quite sure I was going to get through it, but like everything else in life, it too shall pass. I just hope the "sea" is calmer tomorrow, because treading water is getting exhausting.

Mom...

2011-08-09T22:22:00.001-04:00

God saw you getting tired, and a cure was not to be. So He put His arms around you and whispered "Come to ME". With tearful eyes we watched you, and saw you pass away. Although we love you dearly, we could not make you stay. A golden heart stopped beating, hard working hands at rest. God broke our hearts to prove to us, He only takes the best.

I miss you mom.

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For my mommy

2011-07-01T16:10:00.002-04:00

My mom passed away

2011-07-01T16:09:00.002-04:00

It breaks my heart to tell you all, but my mother passed away early Wednesday morning. Her long, hard, painful battle with cancer is over and she is now at peace.

My mom was the bravest, strongest, person I have ever known. I doubt I will ever meet another who's courage could match hers.

She was my very best friend. My mommy. I find comfort in the knowledge that if I am in this kind of pain, it means she no longer is.

Go hug your children and your mothers.

This photo was taken on her birthday this past March in Downtown Disney. I think it's the last photo ever taken of us together. I'm so glad we did that trip.

Happy Father's Day

2011-06-19T02:45:00.000-04:00

In light of recent events, it has been hard for me to find time to write. My mother isn't doing as well as I'd like, and in fact she is spending the night in ICU. I wanted to write a post for my dad for father's day but I keep getting too choked up to get anything good out. So instead, I'm going to direct you to my father's day post from 2009.

My dad is my hero, my rock, my first love. No man will ever be able to fill his shoes, but my husband has all of my dad's best qualities. It saddens me that my father is spending the night alone, while the love of his life lays in a hospital bed, and there is nothing I can do to make things right. All I can do is tell you how amazing he is and send a prayer up to heaven to hopefully help him get the sleep that I cannot seem to find.

Please CLICK HERE to read about my amazing dad.

Happy Father's Day!

AC Moore Weekend Deals

2011-06-02T21:46:00.002-04:00

AC Moore has some great deals this weekend and I wanted to share. First...

Look what I bought!

The Ultimate Decorating Set contains the following:

9" 11" Straight Black Handle Spatulas
9" 13" Angled Black Handle Spatulas
10" Featherweight Bags - 2 Pk
12" Disposable Bags - 50 Pk
Practice Board with Patterns
4 - Standard Couplers
6 Pc Forming Cups
Large Lily Nail - 2 Pack
15" Parchment Triangles
Round Tips: #1, #3, #5, #12
Star Tips: #14, #16, #18, #21, #1M
Petal Tips: #59s, #101, #104
Leaf Tips: #352 and #366
Bismarck Tip #230
Drop Flower Tip #2D
Multi Opening Tip #233
Thin and Thick Foams
Flower Nail Templates
Brush Set
Gold Foil
Cut & Press Button Flower
Pansy Cutter
Wave Flower Former 2 Pk
2 Pc Mum Cutter Set
Calla Lily Cutter
Calla Lily Former
Scallop Ruffle Cutter
Lily Stamen Set
Tip Dishwasher Pouch
Dusting Pouch
Green Ball Tool
Green Veining Tool
Fondant Smoother
Ribbon Cutter/Embosser
12" Dowel Rods
Round Cut Out Set
Rose Cutter Set 5 pc
8" Cake Circle
Silicone Tip Covers
9" Rolling Pin
Thin and Thick Modeling Sticks
4 Pc Decorating Nail Set
The Ultimate Tool Caddy

Tilting Cake Turntable

Moves to 3 preset angles -12° 24°, and level--and locks in place, making every decorating technique easier! Turntable smoothly rotates in any of the angled positions for effortless decorating of top borders, stringwork, lettering on top and sides of cake, and more. The stand is made of durable plastic with a non-skid top surface.

The best part?? I got it all for under $125!! AC Moore had a one day only 55% off coupon good for use on any one item. I brought hubby along with me and voila! I scored two of the items I always drool over when we go there.

I will be signing up for the next Wilton cake decorating class in July and I can't wait! Flowers and Cake Design here I come!! I even ran into the class instructor and she was just as happy to see me as I was to see her. She was super helpful and nice and encouraging. When I told her I had a 55% off coupon she said "buy it, buy it now" b/c it doesn't usually sell for less than $100 even with a coupon.

They also have a coupon good for an ADDITIONAL 20% off your TOTAL purchase including sale items. Of course the stuff I want, like the Cricuit is excluded from this special. However, the Cricuit is on sale for $199 which is $200 off the normal price. If I had a little bit more money, I totally would have gotten one. The cartridges are also on sale and the Cricuit for cakes was on clearance for $199 at my local store.

What would you purchase with a 55% off coupon to AC Moore?

Midnight Ramblings

2011-05-23T00:50:00.000-04:00

Between the new kittens, and working over 92 hours this pay period, I am beyond exhausted and haven't been able to find much time to blog.

As it is, I am posting this on my iPad from my bed.

I miss my blog. I miss my followers. I miss reading the blogs I follow. I miss doing product and book reviews. I miss having the time to do any of this.

Starting a second blog was probably a little silly given the circumstances. I just didn't want to bombard people who don't like Disney with a lot of stuff they didn't care about.
I also didn't want to stray away from the general vibe of this blog.

I have been trying to keep up with Facebook and twitter. I am tweeting as @fromlazytolady as well as @ladynwonderland . Please be sure to follow both because my phone has me posting on one while my iPad has be posting on the other.
Facebook is http://Facebook.com/fromlazytolady and http://tinyurl.com/LadyInWonderlandFB ( I don't have enough likes on the second one to customize my URL yet.
I will be doing a Disney or Alice in Wonderland themed giveaway on my new blog http://ladyinwonderland.blogspot.com once the blog, twitter, and Facebook pages all have 100 followers. Please be sure to follow for your chance to win!

Speaking of Alice in Wonderland, the kittens are getting so big! Alice and Dinah have both figured out how to climb the baby gate and I am constantly finding them in the kitchen. This would be fine, except they cannot get back over the gate to get out of the kitchen. Silly kittens. Jasmine seems to be adjusting well, especially now that it seems her first heat is over. Jasmine and Dinah are the best of friends... Or each other's arch nemesis, I haven't figured it out yet.

I chopped my hair off again! I also bought two new shampoos that I cant wait to tell you about so be sure to stay tuned for pictures and product reviews!

Friday the 13th Hops

2011-05-14T00:34:00.000-04:00

it has been a while since i have done a hop, but it seems that a lot of my old favorite blogs are no longer active so I needed to find some more to read. I figured, what the hell, I'm already at the hop, I might a well link up!

Please be sure to follow my new blog as well... Lady In Wonderland

Thanks bunches!!

TWINS!! - (The surprise from last week!)

2011-05-10T09:30:00.001-04:00

I'm sure that some of you are anxiously awaiting to see just what I was so excited about in this post from Friday.
I would like to introduce you all to the two newest members of our family!

Alice and Dinah are 6 weeks old and I am smitten with my new kittens. I bet you will be too. Alice is the orange/tortoise short hair(the one in the back) and Dinah is the gray long hair (the one in the front).

This is the day we decided to let the little love smooshies join our family. Can you tell that I am quite happy with this decision?

Princess Jasmine met her new sisters and is quite happy. Although, she is a bit too excited and doesn't realize how much bigger she is than them. We are trying to teach her that kittens, are not toys, no matter how small and squeaky they are. This lesson is proving to be difficult considering the fact that Alice's favorite spot to sleep is Jasmine's toy box.

Well, that's all for now. We're all a bit exhausted from our long weekend of getting adjusted. Sleep tight my pets!

Do you have any pets? If you'd like to show them off, email photos of your furbabies to me at fromlazytolady(at)gmail(dot)com and they will appear in future blog posts!

Retail Therapy

2011-05-10T01:01:00.000-04:00

Come on ladies, you know what it is. The men out there (do men read my blog?) probably do too but just in case you don't know, let me explain.

Retail Therapy is a type of self medication. When life gets tough, some people turn to liquor, drugs, or nicotine. Others turn to shopping. Now, I am not a compulsive shopper. In fact, I hardly ever spend money on myself other than taking vacation once or twice a year and spending money on things for that. I don't wear designer clothes, I only get my hair cut 2 or 3 times a year, and I just started doing my nails on a regular basis. I am a Walmart/Payless type of girl. BUT there is something about a nice new bag that just gets my heart racing.

I'm not the type to get a bag simply b/c who the designer is. I won't spend $500 on a bag even if I love it. Up until today, all of my designer bags have been a gift. 2 Coach bags and a wristlet from hubby last year. A Dooney & Bourke Disney bag bought on clearance at Disney World with a gift card from my boss last September. My newest most prized bag, a Disney White Sketch Dooney & Bourke bag from Walt Disney World that my hubby bought me for our 3rd wedding anniversary.

These bags just spoke to me and I had to have them. I got myself a matching set, because I have been drooling over this pattern since my trip to Disney in March. I almost tackled the Fed Ex guy when he rang my bell!

I have used the large bag every day since they arrived. I use it for work and for pleasure since it perfectly fits my iPad, padfolio, phone, charger, and keys/wallet and the wristlet too. I LOVE it!!

The best part? I got all three pieces for the original cost of the wristlet and wallet combined. The large tote bag was essentially free. My shopping high was in full gear that day!

Do you wear designer labels or carry designer bags? What bag is your favorite?

I can't wait till later!!!

2011-05-06T12:12:00.000-04:00

BUT, I can't tell you why... not just yet anyway.

Be sure to check back later to find out what has been keeping me cleaning like a freak for the past week and a half! Complete with pictures!!

Royal Wedding Fever!

2011-04-29T19:30:00.000-04:00

Be sure to tune in to 20/20 tonight to watch my coworkers and bosses chat about the fashion at the Royal Wedding.

Overcoming Challenges

2011-04-29T03:11:00.000-04:00

Someone recently asked me what I am most proud of about myself. At the time I couldn't think of anything. I was having one of those days where I was really getting down on myself. I was thinking of all the things I haven't done rather than all the things I have done.

One of the things I am most proud of is the way I don't let challenges in my life stop me. I have a few medical conditions including a chronic pain disorder and severe anxiety. Yet, I don't let it stop me from doing what I need to do and normally it doesn't stop me from what I want to do either. I realized that this was something I was proud of while reading this blog post over at
http://empoweringsuccessonline.com.

I have my bad days, for sure. I have had to miss work here and there, and I missed a lot of school back in the day. But, I have never given up on myself. I don't use my pain as an excuse not to do things. I have made big steps in regards to conquering my anxiety.

That is what I am most proud of. Overcoming challenges that have come my way, not just the pain or anxiety, but those are some good examples.

Do challenges stop you? What are you most proud of?

Lady In Wonderland

2011-04-28T19:05:00.000-04:00

I'm very excited to announce the launch of a new project of mine.

Lady In Wonderland is my new Disney themed blog. I will be posting updates, travel tips, recipes, reviews, pictures, and more.

I really hope you will stop by and join me on my adventure. I am also looking for guest bloggers for that blog.
Topics should be limited to a Disney theme but can include things like recipes, crafts, decorating tips, games, movie reviews, product reviews, travel tips, photo posts and more. Please contact me at fromlazytolady(at)gmail(dot)com, or on Twitter at @ladyNwonderland to discuss!

Spend Quality Time With the Kids Without Spending Money

2011-04-23T15:01:00.000-04:00

AMF has a FREE bowling program for kids this summer.
From May 30th-September 5th children who are registered for the program can bowl 2 FREE games EVERY DAY.

It's a great way to spend some time with the kids without spending money.

They also have a pass for $27.95 that is good for 2 games per day for up to 4 adults when you go with a child registered for the free bowling.

Check it out!

http://freebowling.amf.com

Did I mention that it's FREE?!

I can't wait to take my nieces and nephews!

Can't Catch A Break

2011-04-14T20:36:00.000-04:00

my poor mom, can't catch a friggin break. She is back in the hospital after having a very bad scare a few weeks ago. For those of you who are new to the blog, my mom is battling stage IV melanoma. She is participating in a drug trial that has had some amazing results. I couldn't be happier about how well that treatment is working.

Unfortunately, it is a chemo treatment and has weakened her immune system. She is in the hospital with shingles and will probably be there about a week if everything goes well. Hopefully she will be home in time for Easter dinner and if we're lucky maybe she will be home for Good Friday for our traditional shrimp dinner with the whole family.

Here is a picture of me, my mom, and my dad taken a couple of weeks ago when we were on vacation in Florida. This was taken on the Characters In Flight balloon ride at Downtown Disney.

Please say a prayer for my mom.

Recipe: Cabage Salad aka Cole Slaw

2011-04-09T12:28:00.000-04:00

I know that I have been MIA lately. I apologize and beg your forgiveness. I appreciate those of you who have stayed around.

Today, as a token of my appreciation, I present to you a delicious, low calorie snack/lunch/side dish that is perfect for spring and summer especially once BBQ season hits.

Now, I know that most people probably know how to make cole slaw. I realize that this isn't a ground breaking recipe. BUT I didn't know how to make it, had never made it before, and wasn't sure how it would turn out. Being on a diet that allows me to have three 100 calorie snacks a day is great. Except I get so sick of eating those pre packaged snacks, and some fruit is actually way over 100 calories per serving. This recipe has allowed me to bring a filling snack to work, and also given me more side dish choices for lunch and dinner.

Ingredients:(makes one serving)

1 1/2 cups of pre packaged cole slaw mix. (I use the kind with green and red cabbage and carrots)

1 table spoon lite mayo

1 table spoon white vinegar (red works too but i only had white on hand)

course black pepper
salt

Instructions:
Place cole slaw mix, mayo, and vinegar in a bowl.
Mix
Add salt and pepper to taste.
Refrigerate. Serve chilled.

Easy right?! The best part? One serving is only 55 calories!

Wednesday = Thursday

2011-03-17T22:52:00.000-04:00

So, I have been going to the gym every week.
I have been dieting, and not cheating on said diet.
I have lost 5lbs in two weeks.
I have gone done several pant sizes since I started this journey.
Today, I bought a size that I haven't even tried on in YEARS.

You know what I'm doing don't you?

Duh, winning!

Get your motor runnin'...

2011-03-13T22:34:00.000-04:00

I took the step to actually get out on the road today. Nothing major, but it felt GOOD to be driving. I can't wait till I have my license and can head out on the highway lookin for adventure.

Adventures at the NYS DMV - Part II

2011-03-12T23:13:00.000-05:00

First, let me appologize for taking so long to post the second half of my story. There are many reasons that I won't go into detail about, but trust that I did not forget about you lovely followers and there were valid situations keeping me away from my poor neglected blog.

For those of you just tuning in, please read PART I first, otherwise, this part just isn't nearly as interesting.
Now, on to the side story....

(As a reminder, when we last left Lady Hill she was anxiously awaiting to find out if she passed the NYS Learner's Permit exam.)

Okay, so, I forgot to mention in Part I of the story that somewhere along the line my mom sat next to a very pregnant foreign girl and began to chat with her. Those of you who have been reading long enough, or who know me in real life, know that pregnancy is a topic I try to avoid at all costs. I went so far as putting my coat and bag between myself and the pregnant woman that we will call Ruth (that might be her real name, I never did catch it but I'm pretty sure that's what they called her at the desk) because I have an irrational fear that pregnancy is somehow contagious through osmosis. SO, imagine my ... hmmm... not surprise, not disapointment, just imagine how uncomfortable I was to realize that Ruth and I were only one number apart, and would end up spending the entire day at the DMV together.

When we were called in to take the test, the only two open seats were next to eachother. When we were done with the tests, the only room to wait was a tiny space that required us to be touching while we stood there. (Another important thing to remember is that I HATE being touched, especially by strangers.) After standing for a few minutes we started chatting, and it turns out she is a really nice woman, just moved here, grew up all over Europe and when she realizes I know German, she began speaking so fast in a dialect I couldnt understand that we wound up getting scolded for laughing so loud. She became my "DMV Buddy"
Ruth it turns out, is 8 months pregnant. No one was willing to give up a seat for her on the benches, because well, this is New York after all, so I told her I'd sit on the floor if she did. Now, picture the amount of space that had to be available, or rather the lack there of, if when standing we were touching. When we sat, she was basically on my lap.
I couldn't help but notice how uncomfortable she looked, because, well she kept making very strange faces and making little sighs here and there. Turns out, that Ruth had been having contractions for the past two hours and they were getting stronger by the minute. She assured me that she wasn't planning on having the baby at the DMV and I said "Well, I should hope not! And, if you do need to have the baby here, please, don't do it on my lap." I said it with a laugh in my voice so she didn't think I was a huge bitch, but at this point I am DESPERATE to escape the DMV. I'm almost hoping I failed the test because if I did, then at least I could just leave. I wouldn't have to spend even more time hanging out with my new buddy and risk her having her baby on my lap.
THEN! Oh my... then the baby starts trying to escape, but not through the "escape hatch" oh no, the baby seems to be trying to rip it's way through Ruth's tummy. He too, it appears has had enough of the DMV and just can't seem to take it anymore. It was like a scene from an alien movie, even Ruth started laughing and pointing at her belly and saying "aw, look at my little alien baby, he's trying to escape" This is not Ruth's belly, but this is exactly what it looked like except it wasn't a foot it was a hand...

I didn't realize those types of photos were real. I have never touched a pregnant woman's belly to feel a baby kick, I had no idea, this was possible. I was FREAKED out. Then, the baby starts rolling and it looks like the Loch Ness Monster is in there... crazy stuff... The whole time she's talking about contractions. Now, I don't know if you can have contractions while the baby is moving around like that, or what not. I don't claim to be knowledgable on these things, I'm just reporting what she said was going on and what I saw. So, it gets to the point where I actually said... "Okay, listen up little baby. You cannot be born at the DMV, especially not on MY lap. Because, if your mommy does give birth to you on my lap, she will have to be my very own personal driver for the rest of my life and yours, because I will NEVER step foot in a DMV again, and I will never get my license." Again, I said it with a laugh in my voice but also sternly enough so that the alien baby knew I meant business. Ruth laughed, and said that we had a deal, if she had the baby while anywhere near me, she would drive me around forever.

Just then they called out both of our names to get our test results....
We both passed!!

Luckily, there were no seats near eachother back in the main part of the DMV so we didn't have to sit near eachother and that is where my story with Ruth and the alien baby ends. I spent another 75 minutes waiting for them to call my number to pay at the cashier, but FINALLY after over 6 hours at the NYSDMV I now have a class D id and can drive! (As long as there is a licensed driver over the age of 21 in the car with me lol)
I am VERY excited and very proud of myself. I fought several fears of mine to complete this task and hopefully, I will have a driver's license before this permit expires b/c I really don't think I can risk going through all of that all over again!!

Adventures at the NYS DMV

2011-02-25T22:07:00.000-05:00

Those of you who follow me on facebook already know that I had quite an adventure at the dmv yesterday. That's Department of Motor Vehicles for those of you who may not know.

A little background: I am 28 and do not have a driver's license. I got my permit at 16, and by the time I was able to take my road test at 18, I was too comfortable behind the wheel and failed twice. The blizzard and tropic storm that I took my road test in, definitely played a part in that as well. My New York accent played a part in me failing my MA road test... let's just say after 3 failed attempts, and then 2 major car accidents, I decided I no longer wanted to drive. (Note, the accidents were not my fault, I was a passenger in both accidents and still suffer from the injuries received)

Okay, so fast forward back to today. Or actually Thursday. As you know know I am on a journey of self discovery and growth. I have set several goals for myself. I realized sometime over the past few weeks that my biggest goal is to stop letting fear control my life. It just so happened that around the same time, my ID expired. Since I have a plane to catch next month, I had to remedy that situation and decided to kill two birds with one stone. I would get my new ID and slap fear in the face at the same time.

Off to the DMV I went. What normally would have taken 20-60 minutes wound up taking 6 hours. Yes. 6 hours. Why? B/C Lady Hill is stupid and didn't think about the fact that school is out this week, and that there is only ONE location in the entire county where any kind of written DMV test is given. Which means, this DMV was PACKED with 400 or so 16 year olds (and one 28 year old and one pregnant Swiss lady) hoping to pass their learner's permit test. Well, Lady Hill, why didn't you just leave when you saw how crowded it was??
B/C #1 that would have been the smart thing to do, and #2 if I left, I may not go back. When it comes to facing our fears, there will always be an excuse why it's not a good time. I couldn't make any more excuses.

So I stood in line for a good 90 minutes, got my picture taken, passed my eye exam(without the need of my corrective lenses, go me! which is important, b/c i forgot them at home) and then sat and waited for my number to be called for about 90 more minutes. Finally, my number is called and go into the test room completely freaking out that I'm going to fail this stupid test and the past 4ish hours will have been for nothing. I got the test, took about 60 seconds to complete it and then waited for 90 minutes for them to call my name and tell me whether or not I passed. This is where my side adventure comes into play... are you excited and on the edge of your seat? Good. Because I have to go watch American Idol which I had to DVR since I was at the DMV FOR EVER.

Stay tuned for part II of Lady Hill's Adventures at the DMV starring Lady Hill and "The Pregnant Swiss Lady"....

I Used To Be Fat

2011-02-21T10:00:00.001-05:00

Have any of you watched this show?

I watched several episodes tonight when I got home from work. I was so appalled by just how LAZY I really am less than halfway into the first episode.

I sit around and bitch about how fat I am, I talk about eating well, I try to go to the gym (I have gone once a week, every week for a month, I'm actually proud of that since it's more than I've gone in the past four months combined) but these kids, they work out 2 hours a day, every single day.
They suck it up and eat the salad and avoid the french fries.

Sure, I've lost a lot of weight since I started my weight loss journey. 30+ pounds in fact. BUT these people are losing 30 pounds in 3 months... it's taken me over three years. In fact, I have been within the same 10lb zone since I got married almost 3 years ago.

This is unacceptable. I am making a comitment to myself, to get healthy. Heart disease, and diabetes runs in my family. I already have high cholesterol and have since I was 25... what am I waiting for?

Support.
The other day at the gym, Lord Hill saw me struggling and giving up on a machine. He came over, and talked me through and counted out the last few reps with me. Honestly, if he wasn't there doing that, I would have given up. Support is essential when it comes to such a large lifestyle change.

That is why, I am asking you, my readers, my friends, my family, to help me with this. I need your support.

That is the difference between why the people on tv are succeeding and why I am failing. They have people holding them accountable for their actions. They have to step on a scale every few days in front of the world, and if they fail, the whole world knows it. If they don't reach their goals, the whole world knows it, but at the same time, if they need a little help, or a little push, they get it from knowing the whole world is watching.

I would love to hear about your struggles and your triumphs with your own weight loss, tips about dieting, recipes, work out routines. Any support you can offer. I'd also love to do the same for you. If you need support, let me know how I can help.

So, in the spirit of new beginnings, I need to lose 20lbs. I'd like to lose 10lbs by March 23rd. Wish me luck!

Book Review: The Hunger Games Trilogy

2011-02-17T22:03:00.000-05:00

Let me just say that this review is either going to be too short or too long. I don't want to say too much and end up ruining anything for those of you who haven't read this series yet. I am also so obsessed with this series that I could just sit here and write about it forever and a day.

Something about this story just spoke to me. I am well aware of how lame that sounds, and I don't even care. It was AMAZING. My bffl Sara was talking about it for weeks and I'm the type of person who normally boycotts things when it looks like the masses are enjoying it. I suck like that, so I rolled my eyes as I promised to read it if she dropped it off for me. (Sorry Sara, I know you couldn't see the eyeroll, but it was there and I now feel super guilty and stupid for it)

I got the first book, The Hunger Games, on a Thursday night and started it sometime Friday. By Saturday afternoon I was done and when I got to the last page and saw the words "End of book 1" I immediately texted Sara with, "WTF?! How could you not leave me book two???" or something along those lines. I debated whether I should go pick up book 2, or wait to find someone to borrow it from, when all of a sudden, light shown down from the heavens and focused on my iPad. OF COURSE!! It's 2011 and even though I am ANTI the e-reader movement b/c real books are my favorite thing ever, I immediately checked my Kindle app and purchased the digital version.

But, I had a problem. I had to pace myself. One of the girls from work who has now made it on to my "favorite people ever" list had offered to lend me book three, but it was only Saturday and I wouldn't see her till Monday. I made book two last with only 10 pages left by the time I got to work on Monday. Then, I realized that we were closing early and the stock girls were not on the schedule which meant, NO... it couldn't be... I wouldn't be getting the book till the following week?!?!?! Thankfully my new favorite person never checked the schedule and came in anyway, with book in hand, and saved the day.

Knowing that there were only three books in the series, I decided to take it even slower with the last book. I made it last till Wednesday night. When I was done with the very last word, on the very last page, of the very last book, there were tears in my eyes. NOT b/c of the writing or the ending of the story, but because the story was over. These characters I had learned to love, and trust, (and distrust) and bonded with...were all of a sudden gone. I will never know any more information about Katniss, or Peeta, or Haymitch. This breaks my heart. I feel as though I'm mourning the loss of a friend.

So, go, right now, and get a copy of these books. I've provided a link to the box set, but you can also buy them one at a time with free super saver shipping on Amazon, or download them to your e-reader... borrow them from a friend, or from the library... I don't care what you do as long as you READ these books.

Oh, I guess I should tell you a bit about what happens otherwise this isn't a very good review is it?
Life, death, rebellion, love, trust, enemies, government, growing up, a black cat, siblings, friendship, war, despair, and above all else, hope.

My new favorite photo of me...

2011-02-04T22:19:00.000-05:00

Taken at work, with my HTC EVO no flash.

Now that's love...

2011-02-04T21:58:00.000-05:00

I am so proud of my husband. He has been fighting me so hard about going to the gym that we missed an entire month of our membership. Yesterday, he finally agrees to go and does amazing and by the time I'm dying and ready to go home, he wants to stay!

I'm so proud and honored that he got over his issues with the gym and went with me. It was nice to have him there, and to be doing something productive together, but it was also nice to see him working out b/c of how good it is for his health. Not to mention, it gave me something nice to look at while I was busting my butt. Honestly, my gym does not have the hottest members, but it's the "judgment free zone" so I'll be nice.

It gives me hope that he will keep going with me, b/c I worry about him all the time. I'm so afraid of losing him, that I need him to work out, to be healthy. I don't want some big buff dude, that's not my style, but a healthy active dude, well that'll be just fine.

What have you done to burn some extra calories this week?

Before Bed Routine

2011-01-31T23:29:00.000-05:00

I have found that having a bedtime routine really helps me get into the sleep mode as well as helps calm my nerves in preperation for the following day.

This is my before bed routine:
Wash face.
Brush teeth.
Whiten teeth.
Brush hair.
Moisturize face.
Take allergy medicine.
Pick out clothes for the following day. (If I'm feeling ambitious I even lay them out.)
Charge iPad
Set alarm and charge cell phone.
Check the sink for dirty dishes, if there are any, do them. (I've been slacking on this one)
Shine the sink.(again, i've been slacking)
Check the locks, the windows, and lights.
Say goodnight to all the animals, tell Jazzy and Petey its time for bed.
Go lay down.
Check email one last time as well as my to do list for the following day.
Say my prayers.
SLEEP.

Now, all of these things don't have to be done in that order, even though it is the order I tend to do them in, and they don't all have to be done right before bed. I start some of these things right when I get home from work, but before I go to bed they all have to be done. It has really helped make my nights and mornings a lot less stressfull.

What do you do that helps you eliminate daily stress and/or anxiety?

Progress on becoming a lady...

2011-01-30T22:38:00.000-05:00

Holding the title of Lady comes with the responsibility of actually looking and behaving like one. This wasn't something I was really prepared for when hubby and I gained our titles but it's something I have been trying to embrace.

Working from home for a few years really slowed down this progress since my only "subjects" were my family, best friends, and my fur babies. (None of whom really cared if I hung out in yoga pants and a hoodie all day with my hair a sloppy "bun")
Now that I have a new job things have really changed. Someone said something last week that really hit a nerve but instead of getting upset, I decided to use it as a jump start for what I'm going to call the "Lady Hill Project"

I used to take chances with with my style, but somewhere along the line I got timid. Well, as you can tell by yesterday's post, I've decided to put an end to that.

I wore an outfit that I never thought I could pull off, got a haircut that puts me on my way to my dream cut, and wore makeup colors that I was too afraid to try a week ago.
Guess what?
It felt GOOD to get out of my comfort zone. Going to work today was like bungie jumping. I needed to take that leap. I was nervous, thinking that there was no way I could pull this off, thinking I'd get laughed out of the boutique... and yet, that didn't happen, quite the opposite actually. Even if it did happen, I think I might have been okay, b/c I felt good. I liked the me I kept seeing in the mirror when I passed by... It was awesome.

So, I need to keep the momentum going. I plan on getting my eyebrows done so I look a little less like a grumpy old man, and I also want to go and get my nails done. The nails are something I have always loved doing but always felt guilty about spending money on. The last time I had them done professionally was for my wedding! I also need to dye my hair. I spent about a year growing it out to get it to my natural color, and now that it is 100% my natural color I can say "well, at least I tried" because it is SO not what I remember it being. The last time it was all my natural color was when I was 15 so I guess it was a little silly to assume I'd still be a fabulous blond after all those years... Now I just need to decide what color to go with. Highlights so I can be a "real" blond, or do I go red? Maybe I'll let you vote to decide! I'm also going to go on a small shopping spree to get some new clothes.

I deserve to feel pretty, I need to remember that.

What is something you do that helps you feel pretty/pampered/feminine?

New Year, New Me.

2011-01-30T00:02:00.000-05:00

Everyone says that right?

Well, I really hope to accomplish it. Maybe not a "new" me, just a "better" me. lol That doesn't sound much better.

I started this blog as a place to show my journey from being lazy me, to being lady me. I don't think I've changed nearly as much as I would have liked, but I am proud of the changes I did make.

I am going to challenge myself to step out of my comfort zone more this year... Whether it be with challenging myself at work, with my writing, with hobbies or my appearance... so without further ado... I present the new Lady Hill...

and just for fun... here's a "before" shot....

Blessed

2011-01-29T01:34:00.000-05:00

It's so easy to sit around and feel sorry for yourself. To sit and say "oh my, I'm so tired, work is kicking my butt, I have no time for my friends, I have no time to cook, I have no time to go see my mom. Wah, whoa is me"

I would like to take a minute and say that I am truly blessed.
2010 was a really hard year for me. My mom's cancer, losing my job, losing Tango, family drama, dealing with fibromyalgia... you name it, it sucked.
I really let it get to me. I got to the point where I just couldn't take any more, had a major panic attack and almost ended up back in the hospital because of it.

2011 is going to be different. My mom still has cancer, I still miss Tango, and I'm still bitter about what happened at my last job. The difference will be with me, and how I respond and react to my life. 2011 is going to be about positive attitudes.

Thank God, I have a job.
Thank God, I have friends. Great friends. This might be the first time in my life when I can actually say that and mean it.
Thank God, I have food in my fridge and do not need to go hungry.
Thank God, my mom is still here. I am so grateful for every minute that God gives me with her.
Thank God, I have family that loves me. Drama or not, I never have to question whether I am loved.
Thank God for my daddy. He is my rock.
Thank God for giving me the years I had with Tango. For letting me help him know what it felt like to be loved. For giving me a little ball of unconditional love in return. For teaching me patience. For bringing me to a point in my life where I would get Jasmine.
Thank God for Jasmine. Without her, I may never have gotten out of my funk last year. She has given me a reason to get out of bed every morning.
Thank God for Petey and Bella and McDuff. My children. Fur, or feathers, paws, or claws, my loves.
Thank God, for Disney World. For at least 8 days a year I get to just be. I get to live in my fantasy land, and be the Princess I know I am, see the world, and be a kid again.

Thank God for my amazing husband, who can always make me laugh, and makes me feel like a princess every single day.

What are you thankful for? Do you think your attitude can impact your future?

Royal Wedding Fashion Ideas for Today's Bride

2011-01-26T00:25:00.002-05:00

As you may or may not know, wedding planning is a passion of mine and I have been lucky enough to get a job involved in the wedding industry. One of the best parts of the job is that it combines my love of weddings with my love of blogging.
Check out my latest blog post featuring wedding styles by David Tutera, St. Pucchi, Marina K., Stephen Yearick, Ysa Makino, and Erin Cole.

Bridal Reflections - Royal Wedding Fashion for Today's Bride

Design Issues

2011-01-22T15:00:00.000-05:00

I have run into a snag while trying to put up my new banner.
Since I'm no longer 27 I thought a change was in order.
Unfortunately, even though all I did was edit the old banner, the new one looks awful.

Please forgive the appearance of this blog for a little bit, while I try to figure all of this out.

The Jets

2011-01-16T22:25:00.000-05:00

I am not a Jets fan. I like football, but I don't really have a favorite team. I root for New York as a general rule.

Tonight however, may have changed things. I don't care so much about the Jets winning, I car about the fact that they made the Patriots loose.

I won't get into specifics, but due to certain past circumstances, I LOATHE the Patriots. So, keeping them out of the Super Bowl makes the Jets my friends.

That is all.

Pay it Forward 2011

2011-01-08T13:29:00.000-05:00

I promise to send something handmade to the first 5 people who leave a comment here. They must, in turn, post this and send something they make to the first 5 people who comment on their post. The rules are that it must be handmade by you and it must be sent to your 5 people sometime in 2011

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

This has been floating around facebook and I think it's a really cute and fun idea and I would love to participate but I wanted to expand on it a little bit since I make things for my facebook friends all the time.
This is open to all of my readers. Regardless of where you are located.

I won't be taking requests but so that you have an idea of things you may receive: I make jewelry, keychains, hand embroidered gifts, photography gifts, drawings, and stuffed animals.

In your comment be sure to include the following:
- A link to your post with the same offer.
- Your email address so that I have a way of contacting you.
- Your favorite color.

Feels Like Forever...

2011-01-08T13:20:00.000-05:00

I feel as though it's been forever since I posted. I miss my blog, and my readers, and the blogs I read very much but alas, I have not had the time to keep up. Between work and my fibromyalgia I just don't have the time or strength to come online at night to post for the following day.

I am going to try writing more on the weekends and then scheduling the posts so that there is at least a little something here and there. I hate how sad and lonely my blog looks these days.

I will be putting up another post right away today as a way of appologizing for being gone for so long. It's a giveaway of sorts so stay tuned.

In the meantime, please either tell me one thing you think I should know about you that I would have missed this past month, or even better, share a link to a blog post you think that I and/or all of my readers should check out.

Welcome 2011!

2011-01-01T02:01:00.001-05:00

I want to wish you all a happy, healthy, fun, and zombie free new year!

I hope 2011 is kinder to me than 2010 was.
But, that doesn't mean there weren't some great things about last year...
I made some great friends both online and off.
I got a job I love.
I got my Jazzy girl.
I accomplished quite a few of my blogging goals.
I lost a few pounds.
I started a chapter of the Zombie Research Society.

There were a lot of good things. Hopefully this year will play host to many more good things, even if it's just less bad things, that will be okay too.

What is your wish for 2011?

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Unofficial New Year's Resolution Post

2010-12-31T10:00:00.003-05:00

I will be making an official resolution post later, but thought this was important enough for you to all know...

While making your new year's resolutions list be sure to include "Prepare For Zombies" at the top.
In fact, make "Put together a bug out bag" at the VERY top of your list.

Don't know what that means? Well then come read my guest post over at Untypically Jia's blog.
I've put together a very simple introduction to zombie survival and bug out bags that will prove to be quite useful when the dead start to walk the Earth.

Don't be one of the "red people"....

Trendy Treehouse Shutter Love Tuesday - Christmas Present or Past

2010-12-27T23:45:00.002-05:00

Oh how I have missed participating in Shutter Love Tuesday. I have just been way too busy and have been neglecting my blog and my photography. Enough is enough! I was excited when I realized this was a theme I could participate in, without having to go out of my way to do so.

The theme is Christmas Present or Past. Well, this is the photo we used for our Christmas card this year which makes it present, plus there are gifts in the photo so they also apply to the Christmas present theme.

Everyone always says that my puppy Jasmine looks like a baby deer. I couldn't resist the urge to give everyone a side by side comparison. I hope you enjoy the photo as much as our friends and family did.

Please stop by the Trendy Treehouse and vote for my photo!

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-25T23:20:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas to all of my readers, my friends, and my family.
I'd also like to give a quiick shout out to my secret Santa Danny. I hope you enjoyed your gift!

Was Santa good to you this year? What was your favorite holiday gift?

the flu sucks

2010-12-19T20:43:00.002-05:00

I have been sick for days now. Literally only leaving bed to go to the couch or the bathroom. Food and drink refuse to stay in me, always making the most violent escape possible. My head is killing me and my mouth has sores from the fever. I'm hot and cold at the same time and these body aches are going to be the death of me.

Thank goodness for wireless internet so that when I'm not drowning in a fever haze I can play Farmville, whine on Facebook, and blog about my condition.

What I really want to be doing is sleeping on the couch in my parents' den with my head on my mommy's lap and my feet on my daddy. A cup of half drank tea on the snack table accompanied by a few un-eaten saltine crackers....

This is the worst part about being an adult.

Don't get me wrong, Lord Hill does a fabulous job of taking care of me. He did a ton of running back and forth before the flu grabbed a hold of him yesterday.

But, there is something about being sick that literally makes my shaky voice say "I want my mommy!"

With her being as sick as she is, this has really hit home harder than ever. At least I can call her and whine and have her shush me and calm me down. One day, hopefully not for a long long time, I won't have that option any more. It really makes me appreciate her and all the moms out there who sacrifice their own health and put their own ailments aside to take care of their kids.

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How To: Candy Cane Reindeer Ornament

2010-12-18T11:17:00.001-05:00

After seeing the batch that my mother in law and niece put together for my niece's class, I had fully intended on putting together a quick tutorial on how to make these ornaments. Alas, I have come down with the flu and there was no way I was going to be able to make them in a timely fashion, let alone document the process.

I was really bummed, because they are so cute and so easy to make and so much fun to work on even with the younger little kids and I really wanted to share them with you. They not only make cute ornaments for the tree, they are great to put out on your holiday table to use as garnish and stirrers for coffee and hot cocoa.

So, imagine my surprise when I logged on today and say that Mommy D's Kitchen had just posted a fabulous tutorial with awesome pictures. I am taking the lazy route today and sending you over there to see her creative creations.

Click Here for the full tutorial.

Calling all iPad owners....

2010-12-09T16:51:00.000-05:00

I know that I have a few fabulously techie readers out there. I need your help. Lord Hill got me an iPad for may birthday and I need you to tell me what your favorite apps for it are. I will do a review of the app and give you a shout out and a link to your blog. Thank you in advance!

Recipe: Key Lime Pie

2010-12-06T10:00:00.001-05:00

This is the most delicious pie in the history of pie. I didn't even know I liked key lime pie before I tasted this at book club a few months ago. I would actually have dreams about this pie after that, and craved it and whined about it. Finally, I asked Jess to share the recipe with me and Lord Hill made it for Thanksgiving. He's making it again for my birthday this week and I can't wait to eat it!!
So, without further ado...

Ingredients
* 1 (9 inch) prepared graham cracker crust
* 3 cups sweetened condensed milk
* 1/2 cup sour cream
* 3/4 cup key lime juice (Lord Hill juiced fresh limes but I have been told bottled lime juice works too)
* 1 tablespoon grated lime zest

Directions
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

2. In a medium bowl, combine condensed milk, sour cream, lime juice, and lime rind. Mix well and pour into graham cracker crust.

3. Bake in preheated oven for 5 to 8 minutes, until tiny pinhole bubbles burst on the surface of pie. DO NOT BROWN! Chill pie thoroughly before serving. Garnish with lime slices and whipped cream if desired.

World AIDS Day - December 1st

2010-12-01T01:09:00.002-05:00

Jazzy is wearing red today. Are you?

Over 90,000 people are living with HIV in the UK and new infections continue every year. World AIDS Day 2010 is all about raising awareness to tackle HIV prejudice and help stop the spread of HIV.

Myth: I don’t know anyone living with HIV.
Today there are more people than ever before living with HIV in the UK, but less people report knowing someone with HIV. People with HIV generally look healthy and many do not find it easy to tell other people, so you may not realise if someone you know if HIV positive.

Someone I grew up with recently came out and told the world that he is HIV positive.
He has been an inspiration to me. While I have always wanted to spread awareness, and be an activist, I honestly never had a personal connection and it was hard for me to really connect to the cause. Like many theater kids I am/was obsessed with RENT, and that helped educate me a little bit when I was younger but I really never got involved with anything.

While Chris and I are not close, and haven't spoken (other than through Facebook) in close to 10 years, in fact, my last vivid memory of hanging out with him was at his 16th birthday party, he is someone that I have always liked and who I have come to admire. I think that if you got to know him, you'd like and admire him too.
Please check out his blog (http://christophervshiv.blogspot.com) and his youtube channel.

Thankful: Job, Family, Pets, & Pie

2010-11-30T23:38:00.000-05:00

Since I haven't been blogging as often as I was, and I'm not on twitter all day like I used to be, I have gotten a few emails from readers asking me how I'm doing and basically just checking in on me.

That means a lot to me. It's nice to know that I'm missed, especially when the internet is so expansive and there are so many things that could distract you from my absence.

Here's a quick update for you.
The reason I am not blogging or tweeting as much is because as you know, I no longer work from home. My new job is great, but it keeps me busy all day and there is no way I could get away with blogging during business hours. My coworkers are great (hello Diana) and have been really supportive since we got the news about my mom.
This brings me to the next part of my update...
My mom started her chemo treatments a few weeks ago. She is so brave, and it is so hard to watch her go through this. She inspires me every day to just do what I need to do and not to let fear hold me back. I try not to spend a lot of time at home on the computer. While it's a great distraction from the stress/pain/anxiety it's also a waste of time that I could be spending with my family.
(Not that I think this blog, or my readers are a waste of my time. I hope you know what I mean.)

Jazzy is doing well. She enjoyed her first Thanksgiving very much. TOO much, because she just had her 7 month check up and she weighed in at 8lbs 2oz! She's getting so big. She's still about half the size of Petey though. I hope she stays tiny. She wore an adorably ugly sweater on Thanksgiving. I promise to post a photo of her soon.

Well, that's all for now. Stay tuned for some amazing recipes stolen from friends and coworkers that are sure to impress your holiday guests. Can you say "mmmm pie"? After trying my recipes, trust me, you'll be saying it a lot.

Changes

2010-11-29T22:28:00.000-05:00

A week from tomorrow I have to change my header. I will no longer be a 27 year old wife. I will be a 28 year old wife.
Should I keep the header the same and just edit the text, or do you think it's time for a whole new look?

Let me know what you think!

Book Review: The Gift by Pete Hamill

2010-11-28T02:22:00.001-05:00

This is a short book so I'll try to keep this short as well.
At 153 pages this was a quick easy read for me. It was easy to get sucked in to Peter's world. The descriptions of Brooklyn in December during the Korean war were vivid and realistic. Peter is a character you feel like you know. He's the kind of guy girls would have a crush on and men would want to be friends with. He reminded me a lot of boys I knew when I was younger and I couldn't help but wonder if he was anything like my relatives. There is so much we don't know about our families. Our mothers, our fathers. People we share a mirror with every day yet know very little about.
This heart warming tale is perfect for the holiday season. Grab a cup of tea or cocoa and five yourself an hour or two to enjoy a great Christmas story about a young Navy boy home on Christmas leave.

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Wilton Cake Decorating Basics: Week 4

2010-11-26T15:26:00.000-05:00

This is my grand finale cake. The Wilton Cake Decorating Basics class was a lot fun. I met some nice people, and learned some new techniques all at the same time. This cake isn't perfect. I have not perfected the leveling and icing of the cake itself. I'm still very happy with how it turned out considering that these were the first roses I ever made. Practice will definitely help and I am excited about what my next cake will look like.
I plan on taking the next two classes as well, so stay tuned for more Wilton Cake Decorating.

Wilton cake decorating basics: week 3

2010-11-23T23:25:00.002-05:00

I was mistaken when I said we'd be making Cupcakes like the one in the book. That's what happens when you don't read the lesson and only look at the pictures.
For what it's worth, I made more Cupcakes after these and was much happier with the outcome. Practice is important here.

The Wilton Cake Decorating Basics class isn't quite what I expected it to be, but I'm enjoying it a lot anyway!

Tomorrow I learn how to make roses and I do my "Grand Finale" cake. Are you excited?? I know I am!

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Christmas 2010 Television Schedule!

2010-11-23T15:45:00.000-05:00

What a great idea! I am always upset when I miss one of my favorite holiday specials. That's not going to happen this year!

Click HERE for a list of all of the holiday programming. As more of the schedule is released the site will be updated.

I wish I had though to put together a Christmas TV Schedule list ! I'm totally adding this to my control journal so I don't forget about it.

I've already watched Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas this year. I can't wait for the "A Christmas Story" marathon, and/or A Charlie Brown Christmas.

What do you look forward to watching every year?

Last Minute Thanksgiving Craft/Hostess Gift Idea

2010-11-22T22:10:00.001-05:00

I hate going to a holiday dinner/gathering empty handed. I am always looking for cute little things to bring with me.
This year I'll be bringing my Wilton Cake Decorating Basics finale cake to dinner but since everyone won't have the time to make a fancy cake like that, I thought I'd look for something for my readers to take along.

I found a super quick and yummy treat idea over at Organized Christmas. This website has been amazing to me this year and I am so glad I found it. Ignore the part that says Christmas because it's also got things for Halloween and Thanksgiving, the holidays that lead up to Christmas. Stay tuned next year when I attempt to follow their plan from August through New Year's Day.

What's great about that link is that they not only provide the ideas, they also give directions and free printable tags.

Thanksgiving Blessing Mix Recipe

Ingredients:
2 cups Bugles brand corn snacks
2 cups small pretzels
1 cup candy corn
1 cup dried fruit bits or raisins
1 cup peanuts or sunflower seeds
1 cup M&Ms-brand chocolate candy

16 Hershey's-brand chocolate kisses
free printable blessing mix gift tags or bag toppers.
Directions:
In a large bowl, gently mix all ingredients except Hershey's Kisses.
Place 1/3 to 1/2 cup Thanksgiving Blessing Mix in small cellophane treat bags. Add one Hershey's Kiss to each bag. Close bag with chenille stem or twist-tie.
Print 4 copies of the Thanksgiving Blessings Mix printable gift tag or or bag toppers, or hand-write your own tags with the wording below.
Cut out tags, and attach one to each bag.
Makes 16 Blessing Mix gift bags.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thanksgiving Blessing Mix
Bugles: Shaped like a cornucopia or Horn of Plenty, a symbol of our nation's abundance.
Pretzels: Arms folded in prayer, a freedom sought by those who founded our country.
Candy corn: Sacrifices of the Pilgrims' first winter. Food was so scarce that settlers survived on just a few kernels of corn a day.
Nuts or seeds: Promise of a a future harvest, one we will reap only if seeds are planted and tended with diligence.
Dried fruits: Harvest gifts of our bountiful land.
M&Ms: Memories of those who came before us to guide us to a blessed future.
Hershey's Kiss: The love of family and friends that sweetens our lives.

What are you bringing to the Thanksgiving Table this year?

Me? Stylish? Why thank you!

2010-11-22T00:44:00.000-05:00

I've got to thank one of my favorite bloggers for giving me an award that I have not received yet. It's super cute and totally cheered me up. It's as if my blogger buddies just know when I need an award to help me smile. Everyone go check out her blog...

7 Things About Me:
-I believe zombies are a very real threat.
-I hate doing the dishes.
-I have taken viola, piano, guitar, and saxophone lessons.
-I think I'm the reincarnation of Queen Victoria.
-I only like to eat the top of the cupcake but ever since a childhood friend's mom told me that was rude, I force myself to eat the bottom too.
- My hair has not been 100% my natural color since I was 15.
- I have fibromyalgia.

I'm now supposed to pass this on to 15 bloggers. I hate this part so I'm totally going to cop out here and say that I only follow stylish blogs and only stylish people follow me sot herefore if I follow your blog, or if you follow mine this award is for you!

Sneak Peek - Wilton Week 3

2010-11-21T22:25:00.001-05:00

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The Before....

2010-11-16T22:17:00.001-05:00

Cupcakes are baked and ready to be decorated at class tomorrow. I'm about to mix the icing colors now. Are you excited? I know I am!

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Blogger App test

2010-11-15T00:38:00.001-05:00

I'm testing an app that will hopefully let me update more often. if you have an android and use an app to access Blogger please share!

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Wilton Cake Decorating Basics: Week 2

2010-11-14T13:54:00.001-05:00

At this week's class we got to move on to a cake.
YAY!
I had an exceptionally long work day on Tuesday and was in no mood to bake my cake for Wednesday so Lord Hill, being the awesome hubby that he is, baked the cake for me. Double YAY!

In case you don't remember, you can check out THIS post to see what this cake was supposed to look like.

This is my before. Notice that there are not that many crumbs in the frosting. If I were smart, I would have done a second coat of frosting over this, but to be honest, I was way too tired and way too lazy. The secret to not getting crumbs all over your cake is quite simple... Don't let your spatula touch the actual cake. It should only touch the frosting/icing. This means use more frosting than you think you need. It will look great, and taste delicious so the extra calories will totally be worth it.

Before.

Now, I am aware that my cake did not come out quite as nice as the picture but I think with some practice I could definitely do it. Also, my icing was still cold from being in the car and was not quite as soft as it should have been so it looks a little lumpier and was a little harder to do than it should have been. All in in all I am still happy with my final product.

"LOTE" is not a typo. It's a "thing" with Lord Hill and I. I figured since he baked the cake I would make it special for him.

Stay tuned for next week's post where I show you my attempt at making cupcakes that look like this:

Wilton Cake Decorating Basics: Week 1

2010-11-13T13:54:00.001-05:00

Okay so this post is about a week and a half late. I appologize for that, but there is a lot going on in the Hilliverse these days.

The first week of the course you don't actually decorate a cake. You decorate cookies. Which I, being the lazy gal I am, waited till the last minute to bake and then totally forgot about them. This is why it's good to take the classes with a friend. My good friend Linda brought enough cookies for us to share.

Let me give you a tip before I show you our cookies....
The Wilton 50 piece caddy does NOT have everything you will need for Cake Decorating Basics. I wound up spending quite a bit more on individual things that I needed because the lady at register was mistaken when she told me it would be fine. Personally, I'd rather have the caddy and all the extra pieces b/c I will use them all eventually, but it was a bit annoying to not know I'd have to spend more money in the end.

Cookie porn anyone?

The practice board.

The K is me and I made a cookie for Sara over at Who Bakes Cupcakes

All of my cookies. The W is for Lord Hill. I didn't leave him out.

Linda's cookies. She got fancy - look at her cursive L!

At this week's class I attempted to make this cake: (this is the photo from the course book)

Stay tuned...

Wow. So many posts in my head....

2010-11-12T00:00:00.000-05:00

And no time to get them on to the blog.

Teasers:
I've completed 2 of the 4 Wilton cake decorating classes. Pictures coming soon.
I can finally see my bedroom floor. Pictures coming soon.
Someone called me a genius at work, and I actually enjoy my job. Details coming soon.
Jazzy is now over 7lbs and adorable. I got her a whole wardrobe for less than $20. Pictures coming soon.
I got a new cell phone... Review coming soon.
I also promise to post pictures from Halloween.

CSNStores.com contacted me about doing a review for them. I'm very excited about this and that is coming soon. Definitely before Thanksgiving so please stay tuned.

Tell me at least one thing that has been going on in your life this past month.

Halloween 2010 PREVIEW!

2010-11-02T01:27:00.000-04:00

I feel like this is the best photo taken of me in years. Is that bad? LoL
This was one of the best Halloweens ever. I felt like a teenager. More pics to come soon.

Can you guess what our theme was? I *might* no promises here people, have a prize for the first person to guess correctly. If you already know what it was b/c I told you, or you were there, you are not allowed to play!

Easy Halloween Craft Idea

2010-10-31T01:35:00.000-04:00

Halloween is my favorite holiday. I look forward to it year round, and some even say I dress like it's Halloween every day.
I have always wanted to be a witch. Not the kind from The Craft, although that is an awesome movie that I know every word to, but the old school pointy hat, black cat, making potions by candle light kind of witch.

I accomplished the first part a few years ago when I got Petey. He's my little Halloween Cat. This is him just a few moments ago. Isn't he the cutest?

Anyway, the point of this post was that, while I'm not a witch, Halloween lets me pretend I am. With this simple craft that I did today you can pretend along with me.

I took 2 antique spice racks (yes, I collect spice racks and bottles. It's a little bit of an obsession) and turned them into potion racks!

This isn't the finished product, but it gives you a good idea of what I did and I promise after trick or treating I will post a completed project photo.

The rack on the right and the one in the photo right above this, is the "dry rack" this is what it includes:
Top Row Left to Right:
Hamburger Spice and Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Dragon Scales
Onion Powder: Mummy Dust
Kosher Salt - Children's Tears
Cloves - Bone of Bat
Chilli Powder - Dried Virgin's Blood
These are my measuring spoons (dash, pinch etc) however I replaced those with rubber cockroaches.

Bottom Row Left to Right:
Bay leaves - Frog Skin
Fennel - Maggots
Chocolate Sprinkles - Rat Poop
Mustard Seeds - Eye of Newt
Mix of bay leaves, Fennel, Chili Powder - Zombie Flesh
Ground Black Pepper - Hallowed Ground

The other rack is going to be wet ingredients as well as completed potions which will be accomplished by adding different beverages to the bottles and/or water with food coloring.
I haven't come up with all of them yet but some of the names will be:
Love Potion #1
Love Potion #13
Black of Night
Old Hag's Cackle
Scream of Fright
Zombie Drool
Dragon's Blood
Invisibility
Beauty
Melted First Snow
Liquid Courage

Add some cobwebs and voila! You have a great centerpiece for your Halloween Party. If I were having an actual party, I probably would have tried to use ice cream toppings in the jars and served a build your own sundae bar where the guests could make their own evil potions of yumminess. The liquid cabinet would probably be a lot of fun with alcohol that guests could drink as shots.

If you could have a magic potion, any magic potion, what would you want it to be/do?

Holiday Recipe: Candy Corn Cookies

2010-10-28T20:37:00.000-04:00

With Halloween just a few days away and some parties coming up I needed something that was super quick and easy to make. Boy did I luck out!

I totally stole this recipe from the Betty Crocker Website

Line 8x4-inch loaf pan with waxed paper, extending paper over sides of pan. In medium bowl, stir cookie mix, butter and egg until soft dough forms.
On work surface, place 3/4 cup dough. Knead desired amount of food color into dough until color is uniform. Press dough evenly in bottom of pan.
Divide remaining dough in half. Gently press one half of remaining dough into pan on top of orange dough. On work surface, knead chocolate into remaining dough until color is uniform. Press over plain dough in pan, pressing gently to edge of pan. Refrigerate 1 1/2 to 2 hours or until firm.
Heat oven to 375°F. Remove dough from pan. Cut crosswise into 1/4-inch-thick slices. Cut each slice into 5 wedges. On ungreased cookie sheet, place wedges 1 inch apart.
Bake 7 to 9 minutes or until cookies are set and edges are very light golden brown. Cool 1 minute; remove from cookie sheet. Cool completely. Store in tightly covered container.

How cool and easy is that?!

My new toy(s)!

2010-10-28T20:20:00.000-04:00

Wilton's 50 Piece Tool Caddy Decorating Set!

I'm so excited! I finally went and actually signed up for the class. I splurged and bought the caddy instead of the Decorating Basics kit b/c I had a 50% off coupon and figured it was a good deal. The lady at the register said it had everything I'd need for the first course. WRONG. I still need to go and pick up a few tips and some parchment triangles but I think this was still a good way to go.

The way our classes are scheduled we'll be making a cake the day before Thanksgiving! How cool is that? I guess I know what I'm bringing to my family dinner this year.

Have you taken any of the Wilton cake decorating courses? I'd love to hear about it in the comments section!

Holiday Countdown 2010!

2010-10-25T21:52:00.000-04:00

That's right friends, it's that time of year! Halloween is less than a week away which means there is less than 2 months till Christmas. I am Christian so most of the plans will revolve around Christmas but please, don't let that discourage you if you celebrate a different Winter holiday. Basically everything I will be sharing with you here can be adapted to fit your needs.

This will be my first year using any of these formal tactics so some of us will be learning together. I would love to hear some feedback and your experiences and advice along the way. If you have a different version of something I suggest, please share! If you've used what I'm suggesting and it didn't work for you, or it worked amazing, tell us about it!

I'm going to start easy today. Today is all about STARTING your holiday planner.
I will be using a combination of forms found over at FlyLady.net and OrganizedChristmas.com

I already have a control journal so I'll just be adding my pages to a dedicated section of my binder. If you don't already have one, grab yourself a three ring binder. All of the pages I will be using or talking about are completely free to download and print.

So your first mission for today is to head over to FlyLady.net and check out the Holiday Control Journal. Print out only the pages that you find useful, there's no need to waste paper or ink on things you won't read or use. I personally printed out the following pages:

Get The House Ready To Cruise Through The Holidays (it's a page on Crisis Cleaning, very useful)
Holiday Gift List (to Purchase)
Family Traditions
Catalog Orders Checklist
(I also printed out the Packing List to keep in my control journal year round)

Your next mission is to head over to OrganizedChristmas.com and take a look at all of the options they have for Christmas planners. Try not to get overwhelmed with how much they have to offer. Just take a few minutes and see what they have. You can always go back and print out more pages later if you want to.
I printed the following pages:
Christmas Countdown 2010 calendar (it goes from Oct 24th-Dec 4th after that it's about celebrating not preparing)
Gift Closet Inventory
(I also printed out the Birthdays and Anniversaries page for my main control journal)

Next, if you have twitter, follow @ChristmasCntdwn b/c they will give you daily tasks to help you get your home ready for the holidays.

That's it for now. I don't want to overwhelm myself, or you with too many tasks. As flylady says, I can do anything in 15 minutes. (Much more than that and I lose interest)

When you're done putting your holiday planner together, take a picture and post it in the comments. I'd love to see it!

Hip HOP Hurray!

2010-10-21T19:35:00.003-04:00

I miss participating in all the fun hops so I figured I'd start again this week.

From Lazy to Lady

My "New Normal"

Are you my mother?

The New Me!

Last Minute Thanksgiving Dessert Recipe

INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

You can learn a lot about a person...

With Facebook Friends, Who Needs Enemies??

I've fallen and I can't get up!

Lady In Wonderland: My Memories Suite - Scrapbook Software Review & Gi...

Giveaway Posted!

Review & Giveaway worth $40!

Big Waves Don't Mean You Are Going to Drown

I had fun, but my heart could not ignore the fact that someone was missing.

Mom...

For my mommy

My mom passed away

Happy Father's Day

AC Moore Weekend Deals

Tilting Cake Turntable

Midnight Ramblings

Friday the 13th Hops

TWINS!! - (The surprise from last week!)

Retail Therapy

I can't wait till later!!!

Royal Wedding Fever!

Overcoming Challenges

Lady In Wonderland

Spend Quality Time With the Kids Without Spending Money

Can't Catch A Break

Recipe: Cabage Salad aka Cole Slaw

Wednesday = Thursday

Get your motor runnin'...

Adventures at the NYS DMV - Part II

Adventures at the NYS DMV

I Used To Be Fat

Book Review: The Hunger Games Trilogy

My new favorite photo of me...

Now that's love...

Before Bed Routine

Progress on becoming a lady...

New Year, New Me.

Blessed

Royal Wedding Fashion Ideas for Today's Bride

Design Issues

The Jets

Pay it Forward 2011

This has been floating around facebook and I think it's a really cute and fun idea and I would love to participate but I wanted to expand on it a little bit since I make things for my facebook friends all the time. This is open to all of my readers. Regardless of where you are located.

I won't be taking requests but so that you have an idea of things you may receive: I make jewelry, keychains, hand embroidered gifts, photography gifts, drawings, and stuffed animals.

In your comment be sure to include the following:- A link to your post with the same offer.- Your email address so that I have a way of contacting you.- Your favorite color.

Feels Like Forever...

Welcome 2011!

Unofficial New Year's Resolution Post

Trendy Treehouse Shutter Love Tuesday - Christmas Present or Past

Merry Christmas!

the flu sucks

How To: Candy Cane Reindeer Ornament

Calling all iPad owners....

Recipe: Key Lime Pie

World AIDS Day - December 1st

Over 90,000 people are living with HIV in the UK and new infections continue every year. World AIDS Day 2010 is all about raising awareness to tackle HIV prejudice and help stop the spread of HIV.

Thankful: Job, Family, Pets, & Pie

Changes

Book Review: The Gift by Pete Hamill

Wilton Cake Decorating Basics: Week 4

Wilton cake decorating basics: week 3

Christmas 2010 Television Schedule!

Last Minute Thanksgiving Craft/Hostess Gift Idea

Thanksgiving Blessing Mix Recipe

Me? Stylish? Why thank you!

Sneak Peek - Wilton Week 3

The Before....

Blogger App test

Wilton Cake Decorating Basics: Week 2

Wilton Cake Decorating Basics: Week 1

Wow. So many posts in my head....

Halloween 2010 PREVIEW!

Easy Halloween Craft Idea

Holiday Recipe: Candy Corn Cookies

This has been floating around facebook and I think it's a really cute and fun idea and I would love to participate but I wanted to expand on it a little bit since I make things for my facebook friends all the time.
This is open to all of my readers. Regardless of where you are located.

In your comment be sure to include the following:
- A link to your post with the same offer.
- Your email address so that I have a way of contacting you.
- Your favorite color.