Many of you know that I work with kids in the foster care system a few times a month. I get to develop educational lessons with a heavy focus in current events and art.
8.10.2011
Suck it Janie and Jack, There is a New Designer in Town!
I have to say, I am pretty proud of my latest creation.
1. I love pleated ruffles
2. I made this with my own pattern
3. I figured out how to double stitch
4. It actually fits Gigi (my biggest accomplishment)
1. I love pleated ruffles
2. I made this with my own pattern
3. I figured out how to double stitch
4. It actually fits Gigi (my biggest accomplishment)
7.10.2011
Recipe Management - Great Solution!
Hey ya'll......
I love the idea of electronic data storage and time management tools. I still enjoy tangible management as well. Those who know me well know of my obsession with textures. Paper, fabrics, silky smooth to the touch - I love it.
I love the idea of electronic data storage and time management tools. I still enjoy tangible management as well. Those who know me well know of my obsession with textures. Paper, fabrics, silky smooth to the touch - I love it.
2.26.2011
Follow Up: How I Lowered my Blood Pressure in Six Weeks
I have the secret! I lowered my blood pressure from 140/90 (average) to 127/80 in six weeks! You will never believe how I did it!
Diet and Exercise.
No secret. Plain and simple......if you think you are eating healthy, and the bulk of the items in your diet have a shelf life of over a month, you probably are not.
After much research, here is what helped me..........
Diet:
The results since 1/10/11:
Diet and Exercise.
No secret. Plain and simple......if you think you are eating healthy, and the bulk of the items in your diet have a shelf life of over a month, you probably are not.
After much research, here is what helped me..........
Diet:
- No caffeine after 7:30 am
- Total sodium of each meal no higher then 700mg (This is KEY). Less than 650 is best.
- Increase raw veggies and fruits
- Drink 90 ounces of water per day
- Red meat only1-2 times per week (hard when you have a freezer full of Organic beef in your garage!)
- Limit desserts and sugar
- Replace half sugar in coffee with Truvia
- Run like Forrest Gump. 7-9 miles per week over 3 days
- Cross train 2 days - challenge different muscle groups
- Stretch every day!
- Weight training
The results since 1/10/11:
- 15 pounds lost
- Lower blood pressure
- Lowered my running time - from a 11.30 minute mile to 9.00 minute mile. Two miles in 18.32.
- Placed second in a 5K
1.26.2011
I figured it out. Be good to yourself.
So it begins.......
I have hit the point of my life where I need medical intervention. I am 36 years old and I am faced with the fact that I may have to be put on blood pressure medicine to regulate my overachieving blood pressure. My heart is "Type-A" just like my personality.
Not to bore you, but my BP (Blood Pressure) has always been 120/80 if not slightly below. When I was diagnosed with Pregnancy Induced Hypertension with each pregnancy, my body has adapted this new high pressure as a norm. I have had consistent high readings, so now we (my team of Geriatric Specialists and myself) are going to give a natural approach one-last-try.
The plan is low sodium, low cholesterol, low caffeine. Fat chance. No pun intended!
When you have to watch everything you eat, it is amazing how much junk is in the food we eat. I am amazed at how much sodium our food is packed with in today's supermarket. I am not on my soapbox, I just want to admit that I typically paid attention to fat content, carbs, sugar and if it had High Fructose Corn Syrup. If you are eating low sodium choices, odds are the rest is going to follow. Healthy choices are typically low in everything if it's low in sodium.
Cholesterol is not that hard to control, plus I have high fiber diet to clean out my stressed arteries. My cholesterol was not an issue last time - although my "bad" cholesterol was low, but my "good" cholesterol is high (must be all the avocados and nuts).
Caffeine - now I drink 12oz of caffeine per day compared to 60oz before......I know, crazy. I drink water and I like it.
Exercise - well, I am not going more than FIVE days per week. I run 3 days a week, cross train 2 days per week and lift weights and do ab work 5 days per week. That is already under control.
Not only did I learn what my fate could be, I also learned another life lesson. While reflecting on my life choices, I clearly see how our choices effect our body over time and not overnight.
My advice for my children is this:
"you do things in your twenties which will affect your thirties and the choices you make in your thirties affect the rest of your life".
It would be a good idea to make smart choices in your twenties - but that is truly a time to figure things out and form a real sense of self. In your thirties - get it together. Start to live your life as your "future self".
When I lived in San Francisco, I was checking out at a grocery store (buying Hamburger Helper I'm sure) and an older woman was checking out behind me and after light chit-chat she said she was 89 years old. I asked her what her secret was. She said "I walk every day and I only eat organic food".
What the heck is the deal with organic Food? This was 2002, and I was in San Francisco of all places and organic was not that well known. Consumers were still skeptical about the organic label and unsure if it was just an excuse to charge more. I didn't know at the time, but that little old granny was going to fill a void that had been open.
Twenty years ago I watched my Grandma have a heart attack in front of me. I was six years old. I was playing in the living room and she was in the back bedroom of our ranch-style home when she had her heart attack. I remember looking passively and not thinking it was a big deal. I watched the paramedics come in and place her on a gurney. I remember the oxygen cannula. I remember that the paramedics were men. I remember her telling one that he had beautiful, blue eyes. I remember the broken breathing patterns and the moaning. She passed away shortly after. I didn't realize what an affect it would have on me 18 - 20 years later. I have never felt the affects of that day until I started dealing with my own health issues.
So the granny I met in San Francisco may have given a little foreshadow to what my doctor and I are attempting right now. I can break the cycle and hope that I can give my kids a healthy guide for a healthy heart. Back to basics.
This blog is a selfish act to heal thy soul if you will, but if you can take any message away it's to "be kind to yourself". Your grandkids will thank you later!
I have hit the point of my life where I need medical intervention. I am 36 years old and I am faced with the fact that I may have to be put on blood pressure medicine to regulate my overachieving blood pressure. My heart is "Type-A" just like my personality.
Not to bore you, but my BP (Blood Pressure) has always been 120/80 if not slightly below. When I was diagnosed with Pregnancy Induced Hypertension with each pregnancy, my body has adapted this new high pressure as a norm. I have had consistent high readings, so now we (my team of Geriatric Specialists and myself) are going to give a natural approach one-last-try.
The plan is low sodium, low cholesterol, low caffeine. Fat chance. No pun intended!
When you have to watch everything you eat, it is amazing how much junk is in the food we eat. I am amazed at how much sodium our food is packed with in today's supermarket. I am not on my soapbox, I just want to admit that I typically paid attention to fat content, carbs, sugar and if it had High Fructose Corn Syrup. If you are eating low sodium choices, odds are the rest is going to follow. Healthy choices are typically low in everything if it's low in sodium.
Cholesterol is not that hard to control, plus I have high fiber diet to clean out my stressed arteries. My cholesterol was not an issue last time - although my "bad" cholesterol was low, but my "good" cholesterol is high (must be all the avocados and nuts).
Caffeine - now I drink 12oz of caffeine per day compared to 60oz before......I know, crazy. I drink water and I like it.
Exercise - well, I am not going more than FIVE days per week. I run 3 days a week, cross train 2 days per week and lift weights and do ab work 5 days per week. That is already under control.
Not only did I learn what my fate could be, I also learned another life lesson. While reflecting on my life choices, I clearly see how our choices effect our body over time and not overnight.
My advice for my children is this:
"you do things in your twenties which will affect your thirties and the choices you make in your thirties affect the rest of your life".
It would be a good idea to make smart choices in your twenties - but that is truly a time to figure things out and form a real sense of self. In your thirties - get it together. Start to live your life as your "future self".
When I lived in San Francisco, I was checking out at a grocery store (buying Hamburger Helper I'm sure) and an older woman was checking out behind me and after light chit-chat she said she was 89 years old. I asked her what her secret was. She said "I walk every day and I only eat organic food".
What the heck is the deal with organic Food? This was 2002, and I was in San Francisco of all places and organic was not that well known. Consumers were still skeptical about the organic label and unsure if it was just an excuse to charge more. I didn't know at the time, but that little old granny was going to fill a void that had been open.
Twenty years ago I watched my Grandma have a heart attack in front of me. I was six years old. I was playing in the living room and she was in the back bedroom of our ranch-style home when she had her heart attack. I remember looking passively and not thinking it was a big deal. I watched the paramedics come in and place her on a gurney. I remember the oxygen cannula. I remember that the paramedics were men. I remember her telling one that he had beautiful, blue eyes. I remember the broken breathing patterns and the moaning. She passed away shortly after. I didn't realize what an affect it would have on me 18 - 20 years later. I have never felt the affects of that day until I started dealing with my own health issues.
So the granny I met in San Francisco may have given a little foreshadow to what my doctor and I are attempting right now. I can break the cycle and hope that I can give my kids a healthy guide for a healthy heart. Back to basics.
This blog is a selfish act to heal thy soul if you will, but if you can take any message away it's to "be kind to yourself". Your grandkids will thank you later!
1.18.2011
Back to Basics......Craft Competition 2010!
Many of you are familiar with the annual craft competition my family participates in every year on Christmas Eve. The anticipation and build up is the best part.....usually around September we say things like "Where can I get 20 light bulbs? I need them for my craft this year...." This leaves the other party wondering what the heck the craft could be that needs 20 light bulbs. There is never a clear winner, we can't all agree on the same one. We ask guests to decide and they are all to kind to award someone that title.
Without further ado......
This would be a Christmas Card holder. Unfortunately some of the clothespins fell off......but cute nonetheless. The good news is it is enough slots for all the cards we got this year (ahem....). Mimi was proud of her creation.
If you cannot see the detail, they hand punched the sillhouette with little holes in sheet metal. Overachievers.
One of my personal favorites, however I think we all lost brain cells because of the paint fumes. Her unborn child may have a third arm. It is a magazine tree, spray painted gold. It was folded and sprayed with precision and felt very stable. A for effort.
My first attempt was a snow globe - FAIL. Even after letting the paint cure for 50 hours, it seeped in the water. The day before I came up with a great idea to exacto knife cut an image and lettering out of cardstock, mount text from a book behind it and give everyone a different one. Mine says "Peace" includes a dove and the mounted text is out of MLK Jr's biography. Fitting for the week!
Here is a reminder of last years:
I looked for a few years back....project for another day.
I am already thinking of next years.....dun dun dun.....
Without further ado......
Christmas Craft Competition 2010
 | ||
| The Matriarch |
 |
| Matt and Bri Bri |
 |
| Kay Kay and Nafin |
 |
| Yours Truly |
My first attempt was a snow globe - FAIL. Even after letting the paint cure for 50 hours, it seeped in the water. The day before I came up with a great idea to exacto knife cut an image and lettering out of cardstock, mount text from a book behind it and give everyone a different one. Mine says "Peace" includes a dove and the mounted text is out of MLK Jr's biography. Fitting for the week!
Here is a reminder of last years:
 |
| My hot cocoa tray |
 |
| KayKay's ribbon wreath |
 |
| Matt and Bri Bri's Snowman hat centerpiece |
 |
| Mimi's Triple Ho |
I looked for a few years back....project for another day.
I am already thinking of next years.....dun dun dun.....
1.17.2011
Luck or Money - What if you don't have either?
Following up to my last post about the education lottery, here is the latest.
There are 4 types of Kindergartens:
1) Magnet - application/lottery/testing
2) Public
3) Private
4) Parochial
We applied to two schools that involve a lottery system. The lottery is only for a spot for your child to "test" (a state which has low test scores tests Kindergartners, go figure). Yadda, yadda, yadda we got picked for one. Jack tested and he liked the "teachers" he met. He was excited to see friends leaving as he was arriving. This looked promising. It is a Math and Science school which for him is perfect. He is already excelling at math which is not surprising since his Grandpa is a Senior Editor of College Math Textbooks. He gets numbers and counted to 1000 the other day.
Saturday we got the news in the form of a letter: "....although your son meets the requirements, we do not have a spot for him at this time".
Lovely. We were sad primarily because this school may have been the right choice for him. Now rewind two days....
I attended the actual "lottery" of the Magnet school. More out of curiosity then anything. There were many people there who knew each other and the generic conversation that filled the lobby was a reminder of how nervous the parents were.
Approximately 280 students applied. Those names are assigned a number and the number gets randomized in a spreadsheet. They test twenty-five and enroll ten (from our category). For entertainment purposes, they announce the first fifty names. After I heard only one familiar name, I walked up to the front to see where Jack was ranked - #140. So, if 115 families pull out, we may have a chance to TEST.
Plan C, D, and E are being executed.
I was okay with not making the lottery, but my math whiz five year old not getting in the math school really rubbed me the wrong way. It left me feeling defeated and that my hands were tied.
This leads me to believe that in under performing school systems, the only individuals who have an increased chance at a competitive education is those who have money for private school (which locally is 6K - 14K per school year) or luck. Pure luck. We did everything in our power to ensure that Jack got off to the right start. I even concentrated really hard on my SASE making sure my address was written to perfection. The ladies at the UPS Store helped me package up my "files" to send in. They were excited for us. But, dumb luck it is.
So now we are revisiting the public school which many Charleston natives claim is "great", and that has been confusing. Friends of ours calls the main strip out here "the tracks". We live on the right side of the tracks, and the school is on the "wrong side". The construction of a Golf Course community was halted due to the economy which would have made the area very desirable. Instead the school has been on lockdown twice this past year due to gun activity in a close perimeter to the school, the test scores have been skewed because the school has a higher population of Special Education students whose test scores factor in, and 15 out of 25 kindergarten kids could not pick out a rabbit during animal bingo.
Jack can pick out a rabbit and tell you what his diet consists of, their native habitat and closest animal relative (I am stretching it). I am not trying to "brag", it's just that we know he needs a challenge, I am not sure he can get it there.
I cannot afford three private school tuition. The Magnet schools were a great option. So now that our luck ran out AND we don't have an unlimited amount of tuition funds stashed, we have to entertain the fact that we may just send our child to the school that requires the least effort to enter and may offer him less then he could have gotten if our number was called.
This leads me to a quote that I posted on Facebook the other day which was "If you think the grass is greener on the other side, then take care of your own lawn and make it greener". This quote reinforces the idea that if we do put Jack in the local public school that we stay close to his journey, make suggestions about his curriculum, be involved and supplement him at home with what others may be learning in other schools, not just in South Carolina, but out of state as well.
There are may parents in the same boat as us and they are going to look at schools they did not even consider prior to the "Week of Rejection". The population explosion of 2005/2006 is making an impact this year.
Anyways, I am at a crossroads with our next move. I have more school visits and more families to "poll" and we will decide. I just wanted to update from the last post for those who have been following this side show.
Please share thoughts or words of optimism with me. I am open to hearing others thoughts!
Thanks for reading!
There are 4 types of Kindergartens:
1) Magnet - application/lottery/testing
2) Public
3) Private
4) Parochial
We applied to two schools that involve a lottery system. The lottery is only for a spot for your child to "test" (a state which has low test scores tests Kindergartners, go figure). Yadda, yadda, yadda we got picked for one. Jack tested and he liked the "teachers" he met. He was excited to see friends leaving as he was arriving. This looked promising. It is a Math and Science school which for him is perfect. He is already excelling at math which is not surprising since his Grandpa is a Senior Editor of College Math Textbooks. He gets numbers and counted to 1000 the other day.
Saturday we got the news in the form of a letter: "....although your son meets the requirements, we do not have a spot for him at this time".
Lovely. We were sad primarily because this school may have been the right choice for him. Now rewind two days....
I attended the actual "lottery" of the Magnet school. More out of curiosity then anything. There were many people there who knew each other and the generic conversation that filled the lobby was a reminder of how nervous the parents were.
Approximately 280 students applied. Those names are assigned a number and the number gets randomized in a spreadsheet. They test twenty-five and enroll ten (from our category). For entertainment purposes, they announce the first fifty names. After I heard only one familiar name, I walked up to the front to see where Jack was ranked - #140. So, if 115 families pull out, we may have a chance to TEST.
Plan C, D, and E are being executed.
I was okay with not making the lottery, but my math whiz five year old not getting in the math school really rubbed me the wrong way. It left me feeling defeated and that my hands were tied.
This leads me to believe that in under performing school systems, the only individuals who have an increased chance at a competitive education is those who have money for private school (which locally is 6K - 14K per school year) or luck. Pure luck. We did everything in our power to ensure that Jack got off to the right start. I even concentrated really hard on my SASE making sure my address was written to perfection. The ladies at the UPS Store helped me package up my "files" to send in. They were excited for us. But, dumb luck it is.
So now we are revisiting the public school which many Charleston natives claim is "great", and that has been confusing. Friends of ours calls the main strip out here "the tracks". We live on the right side of the tracks, and the school is on the "wrong side". The construction of a Golf Course community was halted due to the economy which would have made the area very desirable. Instead the school has been on lockdown twice this past year due to gun activity in a close perimeter to the school, the test scores have been skewed because the school has a higher population of Special Education students whose test scores factor in, and 15 out of 25 kindergarten kids could not pick out a rabbit during animal bingo.
Jack can pick out a rabbit and tell you what his diet consists of, their native habitat and closest animal relative (I am stretching it). I am not trying to "brag", it's just that we know he needs a challenge, I am not sure he can get it there.
I cannot afford three private school tuition. The Magnet schools were a great option. So now that our luck ran out AND we don't have an unlimited amount of tuition funds stashed, we have to entertain the fact that we may just send our child to the school that requires the least effort to enter and may offer him less then he could have gotten if our number was called.
This leads me to a quote that I posted on Facebook the other day which was "If you think the grass is greener on the other side, then take care of your own lawn and make it greener". This quote reinforces the idea that if we do put Jack in the local public school that we stay close to his journey, make suggestions about his curriculum, be involved and supplement him at home with what others may be learning in other schools, not just in South Carolina, but out of state as well.
There are may parents in the same boat as us and they are going to look at schools they did not even consider prior to the "Week of Rejection". The population explosion of 2005/2006 is making an impact this year.
Anyways, I am at a crossroads with our next move. I have more school visits and more families to "poll" and we will decide. I just wanted to update from the last post for those who have been following this side show.
Please share thoughts or words of optimism with me. I am open to hearing others thoughts!
Thanks for reading!
12.09.2010
I Hope We Win the Lottery! Not That Lottery....
It's in the media, it's in the schools, it affects your kids on a daily basis - the education system in the USA sucks.
The Program for International Student Assessment in Paris evaluates schools in 34 countries. The United States ranked average in all areas. The proof is in the pudding.
As a child who grew up in the suburbs of Chicago, school choice was a no-brainer. What school was the closest proximity to your house? That's where you went. All the schools were filled with diverse backgrounds, kids came from mixed socioeconomic backgrounds and went on to become doctors, lawyers, company owners, and teachers. Now that I am faced with making education decisions for my kids, I am realizing that I really was lucky. Illinois (DuPage County) has many things going for them - sure the taxes may be high, but they are turning out educated students and the process is not a stressful one.
Fast forward to 2010. My adventure selecting elementary schools starts - NOW.
Let's compare two of my childhood experience to what my child's experience could be:
School in close proximity - On a scale of Excellent, Good, Average, Under Performing and Failing, this school is labeled "Average". There have been two lock downs due to local shootings within the past 12 months. Not sold.
Teacher Retention - My brother and sister (who are 9/10 years younger then me) shared some of the same teachers I did. The school we are zoned for has one of the highest teacher turnover rates and one of the highest teacher absences. What message does that send?
So what are parents to do? Move? Real Estate market is in the tank. Private school? Well, $12,000 tuition a year for three kids is not going to work for us. So here are our choices......get ready.
1) Magnet School - Entrance by lottery. Applications are split into four categories: 1) Kids in the "zone" 2) Siblings 3) Kids in a failing school zone (Thanks to NCLB) 4) Kids from the county. Out of 250 applications, 100 are picked to test and 40 are selected. Yes - for Kindergarten. This school rocks and everyone wants in. So, the lottery may be the most important day in our child's academic future.
2) Partial Magnet - To apply to this school takes a very organized and detailed parent. You need: Copy of your tax bill, Utility bill, notarized afidavit of proof of residency, letter of recommendation from PRESCHOOL, two SASE's, and the finished application.
3) Inter district Transfer - There are two other schools we can petition to transfer to - but that takes a lot of work and you have to prove reasons other than "the school I am zoned for is average".
So, what to do, what to do. One could suggest we move to a part of the country where there is more money for schools, say Massachusetts. But let's face it - this system represents the bulk of America. Rural and inner city schools have it even worse. Something has to be done.
I don't know the answers, but I do know that there are many qualified, under-paid teachers out there who have the answers. Ask them and take their advice. Let's not leave decisions to individuals who have their finger on the pulse of politics. Leave it to the experts.
A kindergarten application should not mirror that of a college application. Kids should not have to hope that their names get picked in a lottery (Like an NBA Draft). Parents should not feel the need to flee a demographic area to obtain great education. Having kids really opens your eyes to issues you never knew existed!
The journey continues - to be continued.....!
11.07.2010
Spent $190, Saved $92.
So my bill would have been over $300.00 (which is not normal - $170 with formula and diapers is normal for this family of food lovers).
I had $100.00 in coupons. I pretty much could have used a second cart. I stocked up on pasta, veggies, snacks, cereals, detergents and more. This could easily work into meals for weeks to come. $14.00 for a SMALL can of formula (hoping to have Francesca weaned off formula soon!) and a $6.00 jar of sundried tomatoes.
I would love to have walked out with less than $100.00 in groceries, but that's the goal for next week and the week after.
Love double coupons!
I had $100.00 in coupons. I pretty much could have used a second cart. I stocked up on pasta, veggies, snacks, cereals, detergents and more. This could easily work into meals for weeks to come. $14.00 for a SMALL can of formula (hoping to have Francesca weaned off formula soon!) and a $6.00 jar of sundried tomatoes.
I would love to have walked out with less than $100.00 in groceries, but that's the goal for next week and the week after.
Love double coupons!
11.06.2010
I have been hiding.....and I have had a change of heart....
Where have I been you ask? The only answer I have is that I needed a break. I actually had a mental breakdown about 5-6 weeks ago and realized I had taken on too much. Instead of tapering off my schedule and commitments - I stopped EVERYTHING. With the help of my favorite physician and support from my family I am back on track. If you noticed I was not following through on a lot, not calling, not handing in reports (ahem...), it's because I was paralyzed mentally!
I have had increasing anxiety since I started giving birth 5 years ago. Since giving birth has become my favorite "hobby", my anxiety levels keep increasing. Mine manifests in the form of hypochondria. It is debilitating to the person living with this disorder and completely incomprehensible to someone who does not. The panic has such physical effects on a person. False, self-diagnosing leads to real health issues. My doctor said to concentrate on living and if I get that "needle in the haystack" disease, then we'll deal with it.
I also read a great quote when it comes to dealing with hypochondria....."when you hear hooves, think horses and not zebras". If you get a cough, think cold - not lung cancer. That little "creed" has kept me in check!
On to the good stuff:
1) Next Saturday DemiDesigns will be in the 2nd Charleston Artist Market. I am focusing on selling my "FANCY" collection. It is at the Music Farm if any locals are interested. Super excited!
2) I have had a change of heart......I know that I insulted coupons a few posts ago, but I think I have got this game figured out. I am so excited about my new focus on saving money and storing items for future meals, I am obsessed with coupon clipping! My favorite grocery store, Harris Teeter, has double coupons up to $1.98 tomorrow. I strategically meal planned and tomorrow I hope to "cash in". Pampers for $5.99.....3 cans of Pringles for $1.50. Caribou Coffee for $ 6.99 a lb. And so on.......you bet your pretty little pocketbook that I will update you tomorrow!
I also noticed that if you join coupon dealsites Facebook page, you get all day notifications on Facebook. Yesterday I was looking at Crocs for Jack (replacements) and I found some for $15.00. I almost bought them. Then last night I saw that they had glow in the dark dragon Crocs. If you clicked "LIKE" you could get a link on the page to Crocs and get them for $8.99. $15.00 off. Awesome.
Anywhoo....if you have great coupon sites, please let me know!
Thanks for reading!
DeAnna
I have had increasing anxiety since I started giving birth 5 years ago. Since giving birth has become my favorite "hobby", my anxiety levels keep increasing. Mine manifests in the form of hypochondria. It is debilitating to the person living with this disorder and completely incomprehensible to someone who does not. The panic has such physical effects on a person. False, self-diagnosing leads to real health issues. My doctor said to concentrate on living and if I get that "needle in the haystack" disease, then we'll deal with it.
I also read a great quote when it comes to dealing with hypochondria....."when you hear hooves, think horses and not zebras". If you get a cough, think cold - not lung cancer. That little "creed" has kept me in check!
On to the good stuff:
1) Next Saturday DemiDesigns will be in the 2nd Charleston Artist Market. I am focusing on selling my "FANCY" collection. It is at the Music Farm if any locals are interested. Super excited!
2) I have had a change of heart......I know that I insulted coupons a few posts ago, but I think I have got this game figured out. I am so excited about my new focus on saving money and storing items for future meals, I am obsessed with coupon clipping! My favorite grocery store, Harris Teeter, has double coupons up to $1.98 tomorrow. I strategically meal planned and tomorrow I hope to "cash in". Pampers for $5.99.....3 cans of Pringles for $1.50. Caribou Coffee for $ 6.99 a lb. And so on.......you bet your pretty little pocketbook that I will update you tomorrow!
I also noticed that if you join coupon dealsites Facebook page, you get all day notifications on Facebook. Yesterday I was looking at Crocs for Jack (replacements) and I found some for $15.00. I almost bought them. Then last night I saw that they had glow in the dark dragon Crocs. If you clicked "LIKE" you could get a link on the page to Crocs and get them for $8.99. $15.00 off. Awesome.
Anywhoo....if you have great coupon sites, please let me know!
Thanks for reading!
DeAnna
9.12.2010
Meal Plan - I Really Need to Lose Weight
So, the scale sucks. Many people say "it's inches that matter". I think that's a load of crap. It's the scale. If I weighed 140 pounds, I know what my inches would look like. My personal weight does not reflect the amount of calories I burn on a daily basis. I run 12 miles per week minimum, I work out, I chase kids, I lift babies, I chase dogs, I bend and stretch, I clean, I move furniture, I drive kids to school - I am not a sitter. I must be consuming too many of the wrong kind of calories.
I reached into the depths of my brain and pulled out my healthy eating rules....and I grocery shopped today. I bought a healthy cart full of food and tried to sabotage myself with two Hershey bars as my reward for the week. They both melted in my purse because it's 100 degrees outside. I would still call it a loss, but a good loss....maybe in my thighs.
I normally put 3 spoonfuls of sugar in my coffee. This past week was my "lower sugar" intake initiative. I replaced 2 tablespoons with one tsp. of Truvia. That has got to help. This week, I am replacing Yoplait with Breyers. I did not realize what a huge difference in sugars there were in yogurts which I considered comparable.
I also discovered a new website: Sparkrecipes.com
Healthy recipes, over 10,000 vegan recipes alone (not that I am a Vegan, but a few Vegan meals per week is a great goal for us), and free membership with recipe box. Love it.
Here is my meal plan for the week:
Sunday
B Thad's Italian Feast (Don't ask - Salami & yogurt crudite`)
L So good - Ham and Red Pepper wrap with side of carrots
D Red Beans and Sausage with Brown Rice
Monday
B Felicity Puffs Yummy Breakfast Puff Recipe
L Wrap (from above) - Kids will have Peanut Butter Roll Ups
D Curry Chicken w/ Yellow Rice - Curry Recipe
Tuesday (Soccer Night)
B Pancakes
L Soup w/ Crackers
D Frozen Pizza (Home Run Inn!)
Wednesday (Mom's Gone for Dinner!)
B Homemade Blueberry Muffins
L Out For Lunch
D Slow Cooker Chicken Parm w/ whole grain pasta - Super Easy Chicken Parm
Thursday
B Waffles and Berries
L Asian Slaw - See How this goes (Kids get Lunchables for school)
D Make Your Own Tacos - Ground Beef
Friday
B Toast and Eggs
L Quesadillas
D Out to eat! Mexican perhaps???
Let's see if I lose a pound! ARGH!
I reached into the depths of my brain and pulled out my healthy eating rules....and I grocery shopped today. I bought a healthy cart full of food and tried to sabotage myself with two Hershey bars as my reward for the week. They both melted in my purse because it's 100 degrees outside. I would still call it a loss, but a good loss....maybe in my thighs.
I normally put 3 spoonfuls of sugar in my coffee. This past week was my "lower sugar" intake initiative. I replaced 2 tablespoons with one tsp. of Truvia. That has got to help. This week, I am replacing Yoplait with Breyers. I did not realize what a huge difference in sugars there were in yogurts which I considered comparable.
I also discovered a new website: Sparkrecipes.com
Healthy recipes, over 10,000 vegan recipes alone (not that I am a Vegan, but a few Vegan meals per week is a great goal for us), and free membership with recipe box. Love it.
Here is my meal plan for the week:
Sunday
B Thad's Italian Feast (Don't ask - Salami & yogurt crudite`)
L So good - Ham and Red Pepper wrap with side of carrots
D Red Beans and Sausage with Brown Rice
Monday
B Felicity Puffs Yummy Breakfast Puff Recipe
L Wrap (from above) - Kids will have Peanut Butter Roll Ups
D Curry Chicken w/ Yellow Rice - Curry Recipe
Tuesday (Soccer Night)
B Pancakes
L Soup w/ Crackers
D Frozen Pizza (Home Run Inn!)
Wednesday (Mom's Gone for Dinner!)
B Homemade Blueberry Muffins
L Out For Lunch
D Slow Cooker Chicken Parm w/ whole grain pasta - Super Easy Chicken Parm
Thursday
B Waffles and Berries
L Asian Slaw - See How this goes (Kids get Lunchables for school)
D Make Your Own Tacos - Ground Beef
Friday
B Toast and Eggs
L Quesadillas
D Out to eat! Mexican perhaps???
Let's see if I lose a pound! ARGH!
9.09.2010
Spread SO Thin - Nickname is Transparent
The answer to the question is: Because I like torture.
The question is: Why do I feel the need to be over-scheduled?
Over-scheduled gives me a sense of comfort. It satisfies my ADD. Growing up (and still to this day) I loathe Sundays. Yeah, I find a whole lot of fun laying around doing nothing (insert sarcasm). I can't just sit. Before cable in the 80's on Sundays I was reduced to watching "Family Classics" on WGN in Chicago and maybe catch a boring movie my dad pegged as a "classic". I would say "Mom, can we go somewhere, pleeease"? Her response "Go find something to do". Oh, how I hated Sundays!
I worked really hard in my twenties. I belonged to various groups, I volunteered, I went to business lunches and on trips - never a dull moment. The habit was established.
When Thad and I decided to start a family, we pretty much knew we would be a family with two incomes. I would hop right back into the workforce and sorry, kids go to daycare. Then Jack was born and I was in school. I had no assimilation or alliance with any company and the longer I stayed home, the more it felt right - for my family. By baby number 3, I felt like it was time to really get something going. Three kids turns you into "MOM". It is your whole being. How do mothers of 4 do it? Michelle Duggar....seriously? I won't go there.
So I started my own business. I reaaaaallllllyyyyy want to open my own store, but an online store is where I must start. Then I felt like I needed to give back to the community and I started working for a non-profit part-time, and I am also on a committee with them (we help kids in foster care). Then I get an email from the local soccer club that they need a PR director - so I apply and get nominated to be on the board. This keeps up my college degree. Each involvement satisfies a part of my brain.
Now my nights are filled with meetings and my days are filled with creating items for my store. The rest of my day I spend playing with the kids, teaching the kids and guiding them through rises and falls. I try to enjoy every minute even if those minutes are fighting or speaking in "whinese".
But, it is a lot. It's my style though, to bounce around like that and it keeps my brain busy. So although I don't recommend spreading yourself so thin that you are transparent, I do encourage mom's to find something they love and commit to it. As big or as small as it is. Don't lose sight of yourself because one day you will have an empty house and you have to remember who "you" really are.
The question is: Why do I feel the need to be over-scheduled?
Over-scheduled gives me a sense of comfort. It satisfies my ADD. Growing up (and still to this day) I loathe Sundays. Yeah, I find a whole lot of fun laying around doing nothing (insert sarcasm). I can't just sit. Before cable in the 80's on Sundays I was reduced to watching "Family Classics" on WGN in Chicago and maybe catch a boring movie my dad pegged as a "classic". I would say "Mom, can we go somewhere, pleeease"? Her response "Go find something to do". Oh, how I hated Sundays!
I worked really hard in my twenties. I belonged to various groups, I volunteered, I went to business lunches and on trips - never a dull moment. The habit was established.
When Thad and I decided to start a family, we pretty much knew we would be a family with two incomes. I would hop right back into the workforce and sorry, kids go to daycare. Then Jack was born and I was in school. I had no assimilation or alliance with any company and the longer I stayed home, the more it felt right - for my family. By baby number 3, I felt like it was time to really get something going. Three kids turns you into "MOM". It is your whole being. How do mothers of 4 do it? Michelle Duggar....seriously? I won't go there.
So I started my own business. I reaaaaallllllyyyyy want to open my own store, but an online store is where I must start. Then I felt like I needed to give back to the community and I started working for a non-profit part-time, and I am also on a committee with them (we help kids in foster care). Then I get an email from the local soccer club that they need a PR director - so I apply and get nominated to be on the board. This keeps up my college degree. Each involvement satisfies a part of my brain.
Now my nights are filled with meetings and my days are filled with creating items for my store. The rest of my day I spend playing with the kids, teaching the kids and guiding them through rises and falls. I try to enjoy every minute even if those minutes are fighting or speaking in "whinese".
But, it is a lot. It's my style though, to bounce around like that and it keeps my brain busy. So although I don't recommend spreading yourself so thin that you are transparent, I do encourage mom's to find something they love and commit to it. As big or as small as it is. Don't lose sight of yourself because one day you will have an empty house and you have to remember who "you" really are.
9.05.2010
Miller Meal Plan - September 5th
My goal is for this blog NOT to turn into a cooking blog, however most of the things I have been writing about are controversial and I figured until I can craft my writings to not offend people, I will stick to food. I know not everyone shares the same opinions I do on many hot topics, so food it is for this week! Offensive hot topics next week!
My favorite recipe EVER is on this weeks menu:
MY FAVORITE RECIPE
It sounds scary and your kids probably won't like it. But it is on my short list labeled "awesome".
Here is this weeks dinner menu:
Sunday: My favorite recipe (above)
Monday: Potato & Goat Cheese Quesadilla's served with Guacamole and chips Quesadilla Recipe
Tuesday: Date night - kids having pizza
Wednesday: Risotto w/ Turkey Sausage: Risotto Recipe
Thursday: Goulash (see recipe below)
Friday: Chicken Paprika from last week.....I had to make a stroganoff instead last week, last minute game change.
This next recipe is a staple. My mother made it every week and now I know why. It's easy, it sticks to your ribs and it's economical. Great dish if you have to feed a lot of people. I served it for our last visitors who LOVED it.
Linda's "Ate it Once a Week"Goulash
1 pound Ground Beef
1 Pound Elbow Mac (you can use whole wheat or whole grain - just as good)
1 Jar of Prego (mid size jar)
In a large skillet, brown ground beef and season w/ salt, pepper and minced onion. In the meantime boil water and cook elbow mac. When beef is done, add sauce and simmer. When pasta is done, drain and return to pot. Carefully add sauce mixture to drained pasta. Serve with garlic bread and parmesan cheese. I am NOT a leftover person, but this does taste better the second day in my opinion! So, make extra and save yourself a night of making dinner.
Idea making....that's what I hope I have done for you this week! Try the Martha Stewart chicken, it is SO good. Smack your mama good.
DeAnna
My favorite recipe EVER is on this weeks menu:
MY FAVORITE RECIPE
It sounds scary and your kids probably won't like it. But it is on my short list labeled "awesome".
Here is this weeks dinner menu:
Sunday: My favorite recipe (above)
Monday: Potato & Goat Cheese Quesadilla's served with Guacamole and chips Quesadilla Recipe
Tuesday: Date night - kids having pizza
Wednesday: Risotto w/ Turkey Sausage: Risotto Recipe
Thursday: Goulash (see recipe below)
Friday: Chicken Paprika from last week.....I had to make a stroganoff instead last week, last minute game change.
This next recipe is a staple. My mother made it every week and now I know why. It's easy, it sticks to your ribs and it's economical. Great dish if you have to feed a lot of people. I served it for our last visitors who LOVED it.
Linda's "Ate it Once a Week"Goulash
1 pound Ground Beef
1 Pound Elbow Mac (you can use whole wheat or whole grain - just as good)
1 Jar of Prego (mid size jar)
In a large skillet, brown ground beef and season w/ salt, pepper and minced onion. In the meantime boil water and cook elbow mac. When beef is done, add sauce and simmer. When pasta is done, drain and return to pot. Carefully add sauce mixture to drained pasta. Serve with garlic bread and parmesan cheese. I am NOT a leftover person, but this does taste better the second day in my opinion! So, make extra and save yourself a night of making dinner.
Idea making....that's what I hope I have done for you this week! Try the Martha Stewart chicken, it is SO good. Smack your mama good.
DeAnna
8.29.2010
Millers Meal Plan - August 29
This week, Thad will only be home for dinner two nights. Actually, next Friday he is home and I am going to a happy hour in honor of a coworkers wedding next weekend. So I typically shop and cook for convenience the nights he won't be home.
All recipes are posted at the bottom!
Sunday:
Breakfast - Biscuits and Gravy (just finished!)
Lunch - Turkey sandwiches with fruit and crackers w/ pimiento cheese
Dinner - 4 Cheese Cavatappi with Bacon
Monday:
Breakfast - Pancakes w/ fruit
Lunch - Soup w/ Grilled Cheese (pack lunch for Jack)
Dinner - Chicken patties with corn on the cob and tater tots
Tuesday:
Breakfast - Rice Cake for mom/Cereal for kids w/ fruit on side
Lunch - Whatever I want! Kids are in school! (Turkey probably)
Dinner - Chicken Paprikash (great hungarian meal)
Wednesday:
Breakfast - Belgian Waffles w/ Berries
Lunch - Egg salad for mom and chicken nuggets for kids
Dinner - Pepper Steak (family recipe)
Thursday:
Breakfast - Rice cake w/ Peanut butter and bananas for mom/Cereal and fruit for kids
Lunch - Whatever I want!
Dinner - Tortellini and Sausage Stew (from Family Circle)
Friday - Pizza Night!
Recipes:
Four Cheese Mac
Click Here: Mac Recipe
Chicken Paprikash
6 Chicken Cutlets
1 cup of sour cream
1 can of cream of mushroom soup
2 Tbsp of milk
2 Tbsp of Paprika
1 bag of "No Yolk" Egg Noodles
Season chicken w/ salt and pepper. In large skillet, start cooking the chicken. Brown on both sides. In the meantime, in large pasta pot, bring lightly salted water to boil and cook pasta. When chicken is complete, combine sour cream, milk, and soup. Mix with chicken and scrape up bits, lower temp to medium. When pasta is done, drain and spoon mixture over noodles. Serve with broccoli on side.
Pepper Steak
1 Pound of Boneless Beef Sirloin - 3/4 inch thick cut into strips
1.5 cups of sliced Green Pepper (1-2 Green Peppers)
2 beef boullion
1- 1.5 cups of water
4-6 servings of white rice (follow directions on box)
Cook sirloin strips (spray a bit of non-stick spray in skillet first) in skillet - saute until cooked through. Add Green peppers and saute about 3 minutes. In the meantime, start the rice. Then add a cup of water and 2 beef boullion. When boullion dissolves, add a bit of Wondra or cornstarch mixed with a bit of water to thicken. Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve over rice. (This is a balancing act, so if you want more gravy, add more water and boullion. Just add a little at a time.).
Tortellini and Sausage Stew
Click here: Stew Recipe
Hope you are inspired....and hungry!
All recipes are posted at the bottom!
Sunday:
Breakfast - Biscuits and Gravy (just finished!)
Lunch - Turkey sandwiches with fruit and crackers w/ pimiento cheese
Dinner - 4 Cheese Cavatappi with Bacon
Monday:
Breakfast - Pancakes w/ fruit
Lunch - Soup w/ Grilled Cheese (pack lunch for Jack)
Dinner - Chicken patties with corn on the cob and tater tots
Tuesday:
Breakfast - Rice Cake for mom/Cereal for kids w/ fruit on side
Lunch - Whatever I want! Kids are in school! (Turkey probably)
Dinner - Chicken Paprikash (great hungarian meal)
Wednesday:
Breakfast - Belgian Waffles w/ Berries
Lunch - Egg salad for mom and chicken nuggets for kids
Dinner - Pepper Steak (family recipe)
Thursday:
Breakfast - Rice cake w/ Peanut butter and bananas for mom/Cereal and fruit for kids
Lunch - Whatever I want!
Dinner - Tortellini and Sausage Stew (from Family Circle)
Friday - Pizza Night!
Recipes:
Four Cheese Mac
Click Here: Mac Recipe
Chicken Paprikash
6 Chicken Cutlets
1 cup of sour cream
1 can of cream of mushroom soup
2 Tbsp of milk
2 Tbsp of Paprika
1 bag of "No Yolk" Egg Noodles
Season chicken w/ salt and pepper. In large skillet, start cooking the chicken. Brown on both sides. In the meantime, in large pasta pot, bring lightly salted water to boil and cook pasta. When chicken is complete, combine sour cream, milk, and soup. Mix with chicken and scrape up bits, lower temp to medium. When pasta is done, drain and spoon mixture over noodles. Serve with broccoli on side.
Pepper Steak
1 Pound of Boneless Beef Sirloin - 3/4 inch thick cut into strips
1.5 cups of sliced Green Pepper (1-2 Green Peppers)
2 beef boullion
1- 1.5 cups of water
4-6 servings of white rice (follow directions on box)
Cook sirloin strips (spray a bit of non-stick spray in skillet first) in skillet - saute until cooked through. Add Green peppers and saute about 3 minutes. In the meantime, start the rice. Then add a cup of water and 2 beef boullion. When boullion dissolves, add a bit of Wondra or cornstarch mixed with a bit of water to thicken. Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve over rice. (This is a balancing act, so if you want more gravy, add more water and boullion. Just add a little at a time.).
Tortellini and Sausage Stew
Click here: Stew Recipe
Hope you are inspired....and hungry!
Meal Plan Curiosity
I may have my shortcomings in organization (hard with three kids), but one thing that I am good at is meal planning. I meal plan for 3 reasons:
1) I control costs by balancing economical ingredients and luxury ingredients (do I want saffron....? $12.00 per jar? No, this week will be paprika - again)
2) There is no guessing at 4 in the afternoon as to what we are having for dinner.
3) I can search for recipes based on common ingredients I am already using. If I find a recipe using freshly grated Parmesan cheese, I will try to use that item twice that week.
I shop every Sunday or I online shop on Monday. Sundays I have Thad to watch the kids, Mondays I drive through and pick them up at our local Harris Teeter (three kids in the grocery store is my own personal hell).
I do NOT clip coupons. Only for diapers and formula. I cannot get into couponning. I buy what I like, I do not buy things because I have a coupon for them. Also, we should as a society be eating more whole foods on the perimeter of our grocery store and there are never coupons for grapes and milk!
Coupons remind me of my love/hate for Costco. Do I really save when I walk out those doors with my "box" of goods? No, I can find good deals through store promotions down the street (and I walk out with 30 Lady Bics and a half a pound of Dentyne Ice that were not on my list). Do I really want 25 frozen chicken cutlets? No, because I don't like my meat frozen in time unless I do the freezing and it will sit in my freezer longer than I am comfortable with (I have OCD about food by the way, thought I should mention that - Jack does too). I still love to go to Costco though!
This post won't save you any money, but maybe reinforce how easy meal planning can be. Because I am a "foodie" and have am quite an epicurean, I am going to try to post my meals on Monday....or Sunday for that matter. I have had requests for recipes and requests for my meal plans - sharing with you will be helpful for me as well!
Enjoy!
1) I control costs by balancing economical ingredients and luxury ingredients (do I want saffron....? $12.00 per jar? No, this week will be paprika - again)
2) There is no guessing at 4 in the afternoon as to what we are having for dinner.
3) I can search for recipes based on common ingredients I am already using. If I find a recipe using freshly grated Parmesan cheese, I will try to use that item twice that week.
I shop every Sunday or I online shop on Monday. Sundays I have Thad to watch the kids, Mondays I drive through and pick them up at our local Harris Teeter (three kids in the grocery store is my own personal hell).
I do NOT clip coupons. Only for diapers and formula. I cannot get into couponning. I buy what I like, I do not buy things because I have a coupon for them. Also, we should as a society be eating more whole foods on the perimeter of our grocery store and there are never coupons for grapes and milk!
Coupons remind me of my love/hate for Costco. Do I really save when I walk out those doors with my "box" of goods? No, I can find good deals through store promotions down the street (and I walk out with 30 Lady Bics and a half a pound of Dentyne Ice that were not on my list). Do I really want 25 frozen chicken cutlets? No, because I don't like my meat frozen in time unless I do the freezing and it will sit in my freezer longer than I am comfortable with (I have OCD about food by the way, thought I should mention that - Jack does too). I still love to go to Costco though!
This post won't save you any money, but maybe reinforce how easy meal planning can be. Because I am a "foodie" and have am quite an epicurean, I am going to try to post my meals on Monday....or Sunday for that matter. I have had requests for recipes and requests for my meal plans - sharing with you will be helpful for me as well!
Enjoy!
8.20.2010
I Promised - Good Stuff!
I found something great: Reusable Snack Bags.
I know that's nothing earth moving and I am behind the times, but I love them. These are sold by an Etsy artist known as Circus Peanuts. They are very well made and adorable.
Eco-friendly, adorable and sewn to perfection. Here is a link to her store: Circus Peanuts
Here is our latest purchase:
They have a velcro closure - Gigi was practicing opening and closing them today! They have a wipeable lining and a gusseted bottom (they will sit by themselves).
May need to get more, for me!
I know that's nothing earth moving and I am behind the times, but I love them. These are sold by an Etsy artist known as Circus Peanuts. They are very well made and adorable.
Eco-friendly, adorable and sewn to perfection. Here is a link to her store: Circus Peanuts
Here is our latest purchase:
May need to get more, for me!
8.05.2010
Tour: The Studio (only crafters will thoroughly enjoy this post...)
I always refer to my "Studio" or "Workroom". Everyone says "how nice, you have your own place to store and work". It is nice, but it is completely on accident.
My house is a good size, but it is very poorly planned. When we bought it, we had no children. Anything was awesome then. Now that we are a functioning family of 5 with 2 dogs and 2 fish, this house is just plain "stoopid."
My workroom is our former living room which was a former dining room. We remodeled it after deciding we didn't want a dining room. It is our "first impression" room. The first room you see when you walk in our humble abode. When we had children, the "pretty room" was no longer a good idea. Then I started my business and the evolution of my workroom began. Here is a tour:
This is what you see when you walk in (and it has vaulted ceilings with a long ceiling fan):
The table in the back left corner is an antique from my mom's side of the family. It sat at the top of the stairs in my parents home which was my grandparents home for over 44 years (and is older than that). It has been in my home for 5 years. It has ball and claw feet in brass. Delish.
To the right of this photo is sewing supply central:
The bottom bins are full of fabric, tightly folded. I don't keep sizes larger than 1 yard typically since my projects are small scale. The mirror was handmade from my Grandpa Novak and also hung in my childhood home. Many faces have been reflected in this mirror. Strangely comforting.....
To the right of this corner is the opposite corner: Packing and Shipping.
I bought that floral tin at an antique fair in rural Illinois. It holds my change and church envelopes...lol. I have all my stationery there and packing supplies hidden in the credenza. On the wall is my giant college diploma, my pride and joy. Yes, they are that large. A representative from each department signs it.
And last, my desk:
Works of art! I wish I could say that is my only ribbon stash, but I have yards of hundreds of ribbons in a rolling bin to my right in this photo. I keep that photo of Francesca there to make all the other kids think I like her best...kidding! I just put it there because it needs to be hung....
So, there you have it. When I say I am going to the workroom, I sneak away here, and I wave to all my neighbors walking their dogs, kids and spouses out the front window. Perfect!
My house is a good size, but it is very poorly planned. When we bought it, we had no children. Anything was awesome then. Now that we are a functioning family of 5 with 2 dogs and 2 fish, this house is just plain "stoopid."
My workroom is our former living room which was a former dining room. We remodeled it after deciding we didn't want a dining room. It is our "first impression" room. The first room you see when you walk in our humble abode. When we had children, the "pretty room" was no longer a good idea. Then I started my business and the evolution of my workroom began. Here is a tour:
This is what you see when you walk in (and it has vaulted ceilings with a long ceiling fan):
To the right of this photo is sewing supply central:
The bottom bins are full of fabric, tightly folded. I don't keep sizes larger than 1 yard typically since my projects are small scale. The mirror was handmade from my Grandpa Novak and also hung in my childhood home. Many faces have been reflected in this mirror. Strangely comforting.....
To the right of this corner is the opposite corner: Packing and Shipping.
I bought that floral tin at an antique fair in rural Illinois. It holds my change and church envelopes...lol. I have all my stationery there and packing supplies hidden in the credenza. On the wall is my giant college diploma, my pride and joy. Yes, they are that large. A representative from each department signs it.
And last, my desk:
Works of art! I wish I could say that is my only ribbon stash, but I have yards of hundreds of ribbons in a rolling bin to my right in this photo. I keep that photo of Francesca there to make all the other kids think I like her best...kidding! I just put it there because it needs to be hung....
So, there you have it. When I say I am going to the workroom, I sneak away here, and I wave to all my neighbors walking their dogs, kids and spouses out the front window. Perfect!
7.25.2010
Back to School Shopping Memories - Worth $250 Bucks
Every year in August growing up in Chicagoland, the countdown would begin.
When were we going Back to School shopping?
My mom would announce the day in July and in true DeAnna fashion, I couldn't sleep the night before. We would head out to Aurora, Illinois to Fox Valley Mall and I was given $250 cash for clothes, and shoes and it had to last at least through spring. We'd grab lunch at Arby's and then after the mall we always ended up at a place called "Designer Depot" and "Fashionation". God, I miss those stores.
Although I played it safe with fashion trends, I did fall into a few traps - MC Hammer pants which were tie dyed. Mustard and brown colored dress shoes. Yellow Reebok high tops. I could go on and on.
I am thrilled I have two daughters to share the same experience with.
Now with the birth of online shopping, the thrill of the mall is somewhat obsolete. Especially in Charleston. The closest mall is terrible. No Gap, horrible anchor stores and an occasional shooting at Footlocker.
So in light of the new age of internet shopping, I'd like to introduce you to a few hot spots to click on to help your back to school shopping needs:
1) Next Direct. Have you been to their site yet? Oh, a must.
2) Zulily. My favorite "Bargain a day" site.
3) Ginger Pinks. Affordable, trendy jewelry for pre teens and moms.
4) Splash of Pink. Great. sales. always. Preppy resort wear for woman and girls.
5) Thred Up. Online kids resale shop. Swap clothes and only pay shipping.
6) Mamabargains and Baby Steals for daily bargains.
7) Ideeli and Rent the Runway - more awesomeness for mom
8) Handmade clothing that LASTS and WASHES GREAT at Sew Posh Baby and my friend Grace's store Finley and Oliver for great girls and BOYS items including mustache themed clothing.
9) For your fur baby Woof Woof and Sew On
10) Of course, my staples: Crazy 8, Gymboree, Carters and Janie and Jack. Love them.
Maybe my list introduced you to a few new shops/favorites of mine. I'd love to hear yours! Hope you get through back to school shopping for you or your kids painless and if you can, buy local as well!
Happy spending and saving!
DeAnna
When were we going Back to School shopping?
My mom would announce the day in July and in true DeAnna fashion, I couldn't sleep the night before. We would head out to Aurora, Illinois to Fox Valley Mall and I was given $250 cash for clothes, and shoes and it had to last at least through spring. We'd grab lunch at Arby's and then after the mall we always ended up at a place called "Designer Depot" and "Fashionation". God, I miss those stores.
Although I played it safe with fashion trends, I did fall into a few traps - MC Hammer pants which were tie dyed. Mustard and brown colored dress shoes. Yellow Reebok high tops. I could go on and on.
I am thrilled I have two daughters to share the same experience with.
Now with the birth of online shopping, the thrill of the mall is somewhat obsolete. Especially in Charleston. The closest mall is terrible. No Gap, horrible anchor stores and an occasional shooting at Footlocker.
So in light of the new age of internet shopping, I'd like to introduce you to a few hot spots to click on to help your back to school shopping needs:
1) Next Direct. Have you been to their site yet? Oh, a must.
2) Zulily. My favorite "Bargain a day" site.
3) Ginger Pinks. Affordable, trendy jewelry for pre teens and moms.
4) Splash of Pink. Great. sales. always. Preppy resort wear for woman and girls.
5) Thred Up. Online kids resale shop. Swap clothes and only pay shipping.
6) Mamabargains and Baby Steals for daily bargains.
7) Ideeli and Rent the Runway - more awesomeness for mom
8) Handmade clothing that LASTS and WASHES GREAT at Sew Posh Baby and my friend Grace's store Finley and Oliver for great girls and BOYS items including mustache themed clothing.
9) For your fur baby Woof Woof and Sew On
10) Of course, my staples: Crazy 8, Gymboree, Carters and Janie and Jack. Love them.
Maybe my list introduced you to a few new shops/favorites of mine. I'd love to hear yours! Hope you get through back to school shopping for you or your kids painless and if you can, buy local as well!
Happy spending and saving!
DeAnna
7.20.2010
Project: What the heck have I been up to?
You don't want to know.....
My house looks like an episode of Hoarders. After 6 months of once per month (maybe twice per month) travel, we had stuff ALL over the place. My workroom still is not organized. I am trying to make an effort to post to Etsy twice per day (new bows posted yesterday: at demidesigns). So I will be working a lot! I just need a clean space to let my creative juices flow.
Here is the big project I have been working on: Outdoor slipcovers:
I got the foam at an Alabama foam company. It was SO reasonable, and it is very firm. I filled the back 20 inch pillows with poly-fil. Living so close to the beach, my cushions tend to mold and mildew, so I try not to invest in too expensive of a fabric.
I am also going to try to make some girls headbands populate this week. I made a "rosette" and will make a brown band to go with it:
I tend to make things based on fabrics I like, not on what my kids actually own. I am not sure what this will coordinate with, so it may be on Etsy soon enough!
To the workroom I go!
My house looks like an episode of Hoarders. After 6 months of once per month (maybe twice per month) travel, we had stuff ALL over the place. My workroom still is not organized. I am trying to make an effort to post to Etsy twice per day (new bows posted yesterday: at demidesigns). So I will be working a lot! I just need a clean space to let my creative juices flow.
Here is the big project I have been working on: Outdoor slipcovers:
I got the foam at an Alabama foam company. It was SO reasonable, and it is very firm. I filled the back 20 inch pillows with poly-fil. Living so close to the beach, my cushions tend to mold and mildew, so I try not to invest in too expensive of a fabric.
I am also going to try to make some girls headbands populate this week. I made a "rosette" and will make a brown band to go with it:
I tend to make things based on fabrics I like, not on what my kids actually own. I am not sure what this will coordinate with, so it may be on Etsy soon enough!
To the workroom I go!
7.09.2010
I Got 99 Veggies but the Corn Ain't One.
Oh, the joy of comparing veggies to hip hop. Where there is a will, there is a way.
My family and I spent Independence Day weekend on the family farm. My Mother-in-law and her husband own a cattle farm. Grass fed, organic cattle with a load of vegetables. Every year we leave with an assortment. This year was no different.
Literally - 45 pounds of vegetables. 4 giant zucchini's, yellow squash, onions, and.......what else......oh, tomatoes. About 345 tomatoes. I immediately brought some to the neighbors and started cleaning and pruning....
Here is proof:
Reject box, some things did not travel well and I pruned and cleaned:
So, what's a girl to do? I have a family of four and only one of us eats vegetables (me, thank you). Gigi will eat things mixed with veggies. but Jack nor my husband really cares for them. I am going to scour the Earth for veggie friendly recipes.
Coincidentally last week I was watching Rachel Ray and she made Farmers Market Soup. It had a minestrone base. Pretty good with some crusty tuscan bread.
Here is a picture pre-broth:
I found a recipe for Summer Squash with Rice and wow, what a great recipe. Gigi LOVED it. It had a risotto flavor (buttery). Thad loved it, Jack picked out everything but the rice and carrots (success). I served it with chicken coated with paprika, garlic powder and a little flour cooked in a bit of canola. I was thinking curry, but summer squash made me think paprika.....it complimented ok.
So, I have gone through the bushel and have a lot left. I may make some zucchini bread, etc. I will keep you posted and pass on those great veggie recipes.
You may think I am crazy, but I am going to the Farmers Market tomorrow. I need some fill in's. I can't eat tomatoes for every meal!
Have a great weekend. I will be in the craft room next week!
My family and I spent Independence Day weekend on the family farm. My Mother-in-law and her husband own a cattle farm. Grass fed, organic cattle with a load of vegetables. Every year we leave with an assortment. This year was no different.
Literally - 45 pounds of vegetables. 4 giant zucchini's, yellow squash, onions, and.......what else......oh, tomatoes. About 345 tomatoes. I immediately brought some to the neighbors and started cleaning and pruning....
Here is proof:
Reject box, some things did not travel well and I pruned and cleaned:
So, what's a girl to do? I have a family of four and only one of us eats vegetables (me, thank you). Gigi will eat things mixed with veggies. but Jack nor my husband really cares for them. I am going to scour the Earth for veggie friendly recipes.
Coincidentally last week I was watching Rachel Ray and she made Farmers Market Soup. It had a minestrone base. Pretty good with some crusty tuscan bread.
Here is a picture pre-broth:
I found a recipe for Summer Squash with Rice and wow, what a great recipe. Gigi LOVED it. It had a risotto flavor (buttery). Thad loved it, Jack picked out everything but the rice and carrots (success). I served it with chicken coated with paprika, garlic powder and a little flour cooked in a bit of canola. I was thinking curry, but summer squash made me think paprika.....it complimented ok.
So, I have gone through the bushel and have a lot left. I may make some zucchini bread, etc. I will keep you posted and pass on those great veggie recipes.
You may think I am crazy, but I am going to the Farmers Market tomorrow. I need some fill in's. I can't eat tomatoes for every meal!
Have a great weekend. I will be in the craft room next week!
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