twitter.

Do you twitter?

I do.

If you want, you can follow.

Just scroll down and direct your eyes to the left column.

Click on the link at the bottom "follow me on twitter".

I'd love to follow you too!

marbleized, lace & decoupage, oh my!

Need some new ideas for a little easter egg decorating?  Head on over here.  We all know Martha is the queen!

ella belle boutique GIVEAWAY!

What sparkles and shines and adds just the right touch of shimmer?

Gorgeous jewelry from Ella Belle Boutique!  Etsy is full of all things fabulous and now you can add one more favorite to your list.

Trust me when I say you will want to scoop up one of Jessica's lovely creations to adorn your Easter attire.  Nothing completes a look like a piece of lovely jewelry.  In all seriousness, it can make or break an outfit.  And Ella Belle Boutique offers unique and simple jewels to boost your glam to a new level.

Today's giveaway is double the greatness since there will be not one but TWO winners.  The prize you ask, a $15 credit to shop at Jessica's etsy shop.  Just pop on over to her boutique, then comment here on your favorite piece [leave your email too].  The giveaway runs through Friday [7am] and a winner will be announced later that day.  Good luck!

winner! [i heart pretty things]

Sorry for the delay.  I could tell you a long elaborate story but I'll settle for the short version.  I was without my computer Friday and Saturday.  Please forgive!

And so with out further interruption, the lucky winner is...

Please email me very soon with all your info so we can get your goodies in the mail!

light my fire.

If I had a fabulous outdoor patio or deck, I would definitely want one of these or these.

tess & tallulah.

Tess & Tallulah.

The name alone is adorably cute but it doesn't stop there.

The quaint online boutique is full of chic little dresses, super soft changing mats and plush hooded towels.  The fabrics are delicious and the quality is superb.

A skill handed down to her from her mother, Sarah slowly turned her passion for sewing into Tess and Tallulah.  Based out of Cape Cod, Sarah's inspiration derives from those she holds most dear, her family and friends.  Everything is 100% cotton and so incredibly soft.  I have one of the changing mattes and absolutely love it.  Pretty and practical!  Good luck choosing your favorite print!

moni moni.

Totally not practical but oh so pretty.  A girl can dream right?

rikshaw design.

Indian block printing at its finest.  Truly lovely.  I have this quaint little shop tucked away for whenever three may make his/her appearance.  Simple and serene.  I can totally picture a crib lined in these gorgeous prints.

sick again.

Danyelle COULD be having her little one right now and I am sick again!  Hence why there are no new posts up today.

I have a middle ear infection.

I haven't had an ear infection in I don't know how long.
It hurts.
Really, really, really bad.
Right up there with giving birth and kidney stones.
After 1 1/2 pain killers, I finally had a bit of relief.
Yesterday was horrible.
Today I am feeling a little bit better.
Thank goodness for modern medicine.
The end.

I'll be back tomorrow with some new posts.  In the mean time don't forget to enter our fabulous giveaway!

modernPOP.

I am currently loving the graphics and color at this sweet little store.  Pretty sure my oldest would love to see this hanging on his wall.

i heart pretty things giveaway!

I have a wish.

I wish I could sew.

When I browse around etsy and come across beautifully sewn little girl dresses, bibs or aprons I become green with envy.  Why can't I do that?  I believe sewing is such a talent and since I do not possess that wonderful quality, I will buy from those who do.

I Heart Pretty Things is filled up with yummy sewing creations.  Her bibs alone make me want another little babe, just to have the excuse to use one.  Sarah is a fabulous seamstress and I am so excited to introduce you to her.  The fabrics she uses are bright + colorful + graphic and the bibs are the perfect shape, with a simple snap to secure it. 

Sarah was so extremely generous.  Today you have the chance to win...

a fabulous apron  + a baby essentials package

What does that include you ask.  The baby essentials package comes with a diaper/wipe holder, two matching burp cloths and a matching bib.  All you have to do is drop me a comment [include email] and cross your fingers.  The giveaway runs until Friday [3/27] morning at 7am. The winner will be announced later that day. Good luck!

seesaw letterpress.

I love the message on this sweet print from Seesaw Letterpress. At only $10 you can't pass it up.

winner! [skylar's candy clips]

        very very cute!

Congratulations!  Please get in contact with me so we can get you your custom head band!

sick.

Sorry for the lack of posts today.  I came down with a nasty virus yesterday and have barely even crawled out of bed today.  Thanks to a wonderful husband who dropped everything to take care of me [and the boys], I should be back up and running by Monday.  And don't worry, I haven't forgot about announcing the winner.  I will try to get to that this weekend.

jewels.

I really really like this gorgeous necklace by Becky Kelso.  A Little Sussy posted about it a while ago and it was love at first site!

answered part 5 : the final questions.

what is the most weird/disturbing thing you have witnessed/heard about?

Honestly my life is so completely boring.  I am as normal as "normal" can be.  Sorry I have no good stories!

where do you hope to see yourself in 5 years?

Definitely 1, maybe 2 more children.  

Most certainly living in a different house, perhaps my dreams house.  

I'll be 30 in five years.

Hopefully still blogging, if you guys are still reading!

Want to have traveled a bit more.

[see I told you I was boring!]

do you have any great ideas on how i can make my 30th birthday memorable?

Throw yourself one fabulous birthday party!  Be around your favorite people and just have fun. Do whatever you love to do!  It doesn't have to be huge over-the-top [of course it can be], just memorable!

what occupies your thoughts most throughout the day?
I have a constant to do list that runs through my mind all day, every day.

What can I do to make this blog great.

Am I doing enough as a mother, a wife?

Planning dinner.

Wishing for a nap.

Planning my dream house [in my mind].

what has been the defining moment(s) of your life? 

:The moment I realized I was in love [with my husband] and knew there was no turning back.

:The birth of each of my children.  There really are no words to describe the miracle that takes place and how blessed I know I am to be able to be a part of that.

:The moment I finally agreed to seek help for postpartum after my second son was born.  I realized I had nothing to be ashamed of and I really can't do it all.  And how incredibly lucky I am to have such an amazing husband.

how do you not become cynical in this crazy mixed-up world?

Does it ever really help to focus on the negative, to become cynical and judgmental?

I have learned over the course of [almost] seven years I have been married to focus on the positive.  My dear, sweet husband has and is always seeking ways to improve and has in turn taught me some lessons.  I am not completely optimistic by nature but have learned that the more you do it, the more natural it becomes.

how do you store your handbags/purses?

I store my overnight bags in a large container.

I store my clutches/extra wallets/coin purses in a extra drawer or container.

I store my totes and purses in my closet.  I line the top shelf.  If the purse/tote does not hold its shape, you can always stuff it will some kraft paper to hold it upright.  Now I do have some hanging but that is a total no-no.

I think that wraps up all the questions.  If you have any more questions please feel free to email me and I will be happy to answer!

foot care.

Sandal season is just around the corner...this is a really lovely lotion for tired feet. Trust me.

TapeSwell.

My packaging loving loving heart skipped a beat when I saw all of the pretty tape and label options at TapeSwell. How nice would it be to send [or better yet receive] some happy mail all gussied up with these designs? These and these are my favorite. What are yours?

[via Twig & Thistle]

pinch.

Hope you're wearing green today!

Happy St. Patrick's!

[image via here]

skylar's candy clips.

If I had a little girl, I would have an enormous stash of headbands + clips + bows.  Every time I come across a new little shop selling adorable clips I lust.  I really do.  In those moments I wish a big wish that maybe my third will be pink.  But since I have two rambunctious boys, I will share with you all the fabulous girly frills that I come across.

Skylar's Candy Clips is a newest favorite on my etsy page.  Bright colors, fun flowers and soft felt make up the collection.  You can choose from itty bitty flowers, pastel daisies, purple hydrangeas or get a little crazy and personalize one.  I'll take one of each and save them because I still have high hopes!

And if you had high hopes that today would be a giveaway day you will not be disappointed. One very lucky reader will win a custom made headband.  Custom made ladies, to match a specific dress or fabric.  Just drop me a comment [with email] by Friday [3/20] morning at 7am.  I will announce the winner later that day.  Lucky lucky you!

Thanks Sherryl!

armelle jewelry.

What once began as an interest in high school, became a hobby in college, and turned into a quaint little shop in 2001.  Armelle Jewelry encompasses everything that I look for in a piece of jewelry.

sweet.

dainty.

feminine.

playful.

Caroline receives most of her inspiration from France, where she spent many a summer growing up.  Each lovely piece is made only with the best materials for the upmost quality.  I truly believe you will not be disappointed.  Caroline also blogs over at Armelle } the blog, where you can find fabulous tutorials and delicious recipes. Happy browsing [and maybe a little shopping too].

extra goodness:  right now until May 1st Caroline is extending a 15% discount off your order. all you have to do is type favoritethings15 at check out!

[pay in paypal as normal. then type the code favoritethings15 in the note to seller part at checkout and you will be promptly REFUNDED the 15% off the total price to your paypal account]

mobile.

Fawn and Forest has some really lovely baby things. I especially love their mobiles, like this one here. It's currently sold out, but I think it could be re-created using patterned paper or even pretty fabric.

DIY friday : paper covered match boxes.

Sorry the DIY friday is two days late.  But better late than never, eh?

This lovely little tutorial is courtesy of Ez over at Creature Comforts.  It looks super easy and very chic.  So much better than looking at the standard drab cardboard box matches usually come in.

spring clean.

Last night while browsing the book store I came across this.  It inspired me to begin my spring cleaning.  First room on the list, the kitchen.  There is so much to the kitchen it can be a bit daunting but I started with the cabinets today.  I am removing everything and wiping the insides down.  Which brings me to a question that popped into my mind...

Do you have your cabinets lined?

If so, what do you use?

And I promise I will get to the rest of the questions/answers today or tonight!

more answers.

Don't worry ladies, if you asked a question my answers our on the way.  Dear husband took off work today so I will do a special Saturday post containing all of my answers to your burning questions.  Let me know if you enjoyed it and I may just make it an installment!

winner.

Congratulations!

Please contact me so that we can get you your lovely tea towel!

A big thanks to all who participated and a big big thanks to Rebecca over at print*pattern*paper for donating a fantastic product.

scarves.

I am sure everyone knows that scarves are the new fashion accessory of the season.  It doesn't take a genius to figure that one out, but it might take one to know how to tie one every which way.  I love the idea of a scarf because it can totally dress up a tired shirt you have hanging in your closet.

  

I just bought two really cute ones from Express.  I brought them home and realized one was square and I had absolutely no idea how to wear a square scarf.  So what did I do?  I jumped onto youTube and looked up a couple videos.  Let me tell you there is a plethora of scarf information out there.  Some not so good but I did learn how to wear/tie my new lovely.

So tell me, are you a scarf person?

puddle jumper.

I have a love hate relationship with the gym.  I absolutely love the gym that I belong to and I love the alone time I get but I still do not completely love working out.  I never have and I've come to terms that maybe I never will be but...

I am totally head over heels in LOVE with this!  The Lug puddle jumper is, I am sure, the absolute best gym bag.  Ever!  I was beyond thrilled when it finally arrived in the post and could not wait to test it out.  Get this, I can fit ALL of the following...

clothes

shoes

make up

hair dryer

my big round brush

flat iron [with a small towel wrapped around it]

all my beautifying essentials

wallet

phone

jewelry

I know, it's hard to believe but so true.  And for having the talent to fit all that, it does not look or feel huge.  Lug has a fantastic line up of multi purpose bags that are great for traveling.  I feel completely organized and love the fact that I don't have to sacrifice toting along any of my must-haves.

nursery inspiration.

If you are in need of nursery inspiration, this sweet room will do the trick. Go here to see all of the lovely images of this bright and sunny space.

[via ohdeedoh]

engagement pictures.

I love weddings. And wedding blogs. One of my favorites, Snippet & Ink recently posted this incredible engagement photo shoot. The photography is amazing and the couple is about as charming as they come. Truth be told, I'm already scheming up details for my two daughters big days. Who cares if they're only 7 and 17 months. You can never be too prepared, right?

answered part 4 : blog business.

So a few of you wanted to know about how I got started in the blog business.  It was a gradual transition for me, from family blog to public blog.  I separated my two loves : shopping & family. Blogging for me, started off as an outlet for shopping that didn't cost me money and boy was my dear husband ecstatic about that.  I gradually went from hobby to making a little money.  It takes work and dedication and I'll be honest, I don't always feel like blogging.  But I have a great partner [which helps] and a love for shopping that will never die.

I learned and am still learning the ropes by trial and error.

What works and what doesn't?

::Come up with a concept that you love to write about and share, and stick with that.

::Figure out your target audience.

::Start blogging.

::Don't be afraid to ask, so what if they say no.

[ask companies to participate in a giveaway, ask a fellow blogger to be a guest blogger, ask for help from bloggers that you admired]

::Read lots of blogs

[i've gotten lots of great ideas on how to run things and tweak them by reading other blogs]

I hope that helps a little bit in your blogging adventure!

ps I will be answering the rest of the questions tomorrow!

answered part 3 : pregnancy resources.

When I opened up the question post, I got some wonderfully inspiring questions that truly made me think.  Today's answer will be for Nicole.  She asked about any great and helpful books or resources on pregnancy.  She is expecting her first and I'd love to help out. Congratulations!

::The first book I would recommend may not be for everyone.  I chose to go drug-free with my second and if you do too, I highly highly suggest purchasing this book.  In my opinion, the bradley method is the only way to go if you do not want the epidural. [side note : i do not want to start a debate about which way is better : epidural vs. drug-free. just know I've given birth both ways and any way you choose is the right thing for you.]

::My most favorite and best sleep book!

::Just an awesome book that is a total must have!

::I LOVE Dr. Sears and would pretty much recommend any of his books.  Here is a short list of the ones I have.

The Pregnancy Book

The Breastfeeding Book

The Baby Book

The Vaccine Book

::If you want to keep track of you pregnancy here are two option for that.

40 weeks

The Belly Book

::The bigger I got the more pillows I would use.  I tried one of those pillows specifically designed for pregnancy  but found out that I just as much preferred to use my own.

::I really enjoyed doing prenatal yoga.  A great way to stretch and help your body adjust to all the growing going on. [as always, consult with your doctor before beginning any type of program].

::I totally stalked babycenter.com when I was pregnant with my first.  I haven't been to the site in ages but actually connected with a sweet group of girls that I still stay in contact with today.

::Start preparing for baby.  I am a huge, crazy, maybe a tad OCD organizer.  I love to plan and I love to be prepared.  Here are a few essentials that I believe are a must have when bringing home baby.

the miracle blanket

an awesome pump [if breast feeding]

great nursing bra and pads [if breast feeding of course]

these were a life savor in the first week or two of nursing

a fantastic diaper bag [ that is cute and functional]

      my top four are [in no particular order]

      one

      two

      three

      four

lots and lots of soft receiving blankets [ i prefer to use these for spit up instead of an actual spit up pad/blanket.  they are bigger and cover more area on your shoulder/chest]

BPA free bottles 

pacifiers

That's all that comes to mind right now.  I'm sure I can come up with a few more if I thought about it a bit longer.  But feel free to email me if you have anymore questions!

[image via here]

print pattern paper GIVEAWAY!

I first introduced you to print*pattern*paper here and am just as excited the second time to tell you that you are in for another marvelous giveaway.

Rebecca has added a fun new section to her shop, home textiles.   Darling pillows, dainty tea towels and adorable aprons.  All products feature her stunning art work and will add a cheeriness to your home.  While I was browsing her site the other day, my oldest son spotted the robot pillows and quite frankly told me that he NEEDED one.  He pretty much thought it was the coolest.

Today YOU have a chance to enter to win a sweet little tea towel and if you don't want it, I sure do.  Just drop me a comment [with your email] by Friday the 13th at 7am and the winner will be announced later that day.  Skit, skat and go visit her site!

answered part 2 : potty training.

Thoughts of potty training first entered my mind when my sister started potty training her little guy.  All I can tell you is that it caused me nightmares.  I dreaded the day I had to potty train my oldest.  I absolutely did NOT want to do it.  I even went as far as telling my husband that he was to be in charge of that parently duty.  

I can now say my [almost] four year old was successfully potty trained just under a year ago. And if I can go as far as saying, it was almost stress-free [well after the first three days].  Here are a few tips and tools I used that helped the transition from diaper to underwear.

:: Be willing to stay home for the first few days to a week and completely FOCUS on the task at hand.

:: buy ALL his/her favorite drinks and encourage drinking LOTS through out the day.

:: let him or her pick out the underwear

:: REWARD, REWARD, REWARD!  I tried candy at first, which was nice but then I purchased a small gumball machine.  Score one for mom!  One gumball for pee pee and two for going poopy. Worked like a charm.

:: figure out a system that works for you.  I chose not to use a little potty because well, I did not want to be cleaning it out.  We went with the bjorn potty seat and it was perfect.  It is well worth every single penny.  Since we went with a potty seat I had to choose a step stool so my little guy could reach.  This ikea one is awesome and we use this one at the sink.

:: and if you want to read a book, I recommend this one.

It took my little guy three days to figure it out.  After that I think we had one accident at a friends house and that's it!  I chose to wait until he was three to potty train.  Even though some of my friends chose to do earlier, I waited a little bit longer and I am glad I did.  It was so much easier than I anticipated.  My youngest is two and I can tell you that we will be waiting until his third birthday to start the process all over again.  Hope that helps Doreen!

And if you asked a question, look for more answers tomorrow!

answered part 1 : easter dresses

So I started a new thing this past weekend. I asked YOU, my readers, to ask me anything and everything.  The first question happened to be about Easter dresses.  Unfortunately I don't have a need to go dress shopping but that doesn't mean I can't look.   And look I did or maybe I lusted.  Since I found such an abundance of loveliness I decided this topic needed a post of its own.  Hope this helps KatieJ!

Gap : Eyelet Ruffle Dress

Gap : Eyelet Tiered Dress

Gap : Rose Sun Dress

Mini Boden : Floaty Flower Dress

Tea Collection : Daily Tea Multi Dot Banded Dress

Tea Collection : Mizumoto Stripe Dress

Monkey Beanz : Ginger

Monkey Beanz : Sabrina

Pears + Bears : s/s andrea dress

Pears + Bears : ruffle wrap dress

shabby baby : caribbean blue

shabby baby : 45 words per minute

crew cuts : cotton layered petals shift dress

crew cuts : courtyard dress

crew cuts : gauzy polka-dot dress

crew cuts : cotton-lawn-shirt stripe dress

Kit & Lili : mandy - field of flowers

elephant and chickpea.

Really loving these room shoes at the new to me etsy shop Elephant and Chickpea. Check out all of the pretty styles here.

questions anyone?

[image via here]
Okay guys and gals, I am going to try something new, just for fun and just because I am bored out of my mind.  It has been a REALLY long week with a sick little boy and I need distractions. So I am opening up the floor.  You got questions?  I've got answers.  Anything you want to know just leave a comment and I'll compile a post over the weekend to put up on Monday.  

1.2.3. GO!

stike a pose.

I may be a smidgen on the biased side but my little sister is hot, hot, hot!  Stephanie, as always, did a smokin' job.  Slip on over and check out the rest.  Her prices are super generous, so if you are in the Dallas area be sure to book a session!

DIY friday: knotty and nice bags.

This is the perfect weekend project! Making a spring bag from a scarf. What could be more simple? Follow the no-sew tutorial here.

[via Stephmodo]