friday favorites : by Lauralee.

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a few of Lauralee's favorite things

spending time with my two little boys

the smell outside after it rains

going to the tumble gym

cutting and coloring hair

fresh fruit and summer sun

cheesy girlie movies

visiting my family in Texas

my mom's amazing homemade cinnamon rolls

hanging out with my 4 sisters

thanks Lauralee and happy new years eve!

2011 promises some changes for My Favorite Things.

I am terribly sad to see Danyelle part with us but I know she must follow her heart.

We will miss her so.

But I have some fun things in the mix, so stay tuned!

go here to join the line up for Friday Favorites.

diy friday : sequin bow shoe clips.

Liz is super rad.  Always has the neatest diy's.  I might just be a teeny tiny bit jealous.  And maybe have a little blog crush.  But that is neither here nor there.

Check out this awesome sequin shoe clip tutorial.  SEQUINS ladies!  Just in time to dance the night away!

Happy happy NEW YEAR friends.  Stay safe and see ya on the flip side.  You know, see you in 2011.

glitter. shimmer. sparkle.

New years eve is tomorrow night ladies.  Do you have big plans?
I don't but that still doesn't stop me from thinking all things sparkle.
I have bobbi browns long wear metallic cream eyeshadow in goldstone and just adore it.  Doesn't crease.  Easy application with just a finger tip.  Add a little.  Add a lot.
Everyone needs a little shimmer.
Wouldn't you agree?

so long, my favorites.

Hello, friends. This post will be my very last as a co-editor here at My Favorite Things. I have loved my time in this space and am grateful to Molly for the opportunity to share a smidgen of my favorites with you all these past few years. It has been very rewarding linking to my current etsy loves, fashion finds, makeup products and other things I couldn't keep to myself.

I'm hoping that stepping away from this blog will give me the time to focus on some of the ideas and projects that have been brewing in my head. I will of course continue blogging at Dandee Designs and would love if you would join me there.

Thank you for your kindness! I look forward to visiting here often to check out Molly's latest favorite things.

Kisses,
Danyelle

the flying jib.

Really loving this series of original film prints by The Flying Jib. "Bike in the Fall" is currently on my inspiration board. The colors are so pretty.

Remember those old time merry go rounds? They were my favorite. I think the sweet "Merry Go Round" would go perfectly in a child's room or play area.

wildflowers in the dead of winter.

Okay, I know it is winter.
And it is cold.
And these tights are called Wildflower Abundance.
But they were just too cute to pass up.  Plus they are on sale.  Really, who doesn't love wildflowers?

magic : a belly grows.

Magic- A Belly Grows from The Panic Room Videos on Vimeo.

Need a smile?

Check this sweet video out.

I promise.  It will make you smile.

golden nuggets.

Speaking of New Year's, my fingers could use a little sparkle too. Essie's "Golden Nuggets" looks just about perfect.

sequins.

I think this number (with the right accessories) from Urban outfitters would make a perfect New Year's party dress. Aren't sequins fun?!

merry holidays.

dear readers.

you are such a treat to have around.

thank you for taking the time to visit our little blog.

we want to wish you the happiest of holidays.

stay safe and warm friends.

we will see you back here on Monday.

christmas card created at minted. photos shot by auburn soul.

waited too long : vitalize blouse.

I really wanted this adorable top from Anthropologie.  But I hesitated too long and now they don't have my size.  If you live by an Anthro, you know, you could take a peek for me?  Pretty please?  I need a size zero. You would be my hero for forever if you found it.

shanna murray.

My latest obsession? Shanna Murray's decals. They are the prettiest I've ever seen.

free gift tags.

Jessica did a really great round up of free gift tag printables. Free is good, yes?

B. toys.

I am picky when it comes to toys.  Don't get me wrong, we do the whole star wars and transformer action figures.  I have a house full of boys; it's only natural.  But overall, I like to find good quality toys that won't break the bank and that my boys will still have fun playing with.

Have you heard of B. toys?  I hadn't either until the creator commented on this little ole blog.  I clicked on over to her blog and boom, a new discovery.  This line of toys is colorful but not garish.  Evokes imagination and includes items for baby on up through toddler.  My five and a half year old was smitten when our package arrived.  We were gifted the Dr. Doctor, Alphaberry, and the Hugs Links.  I have to say, I instantly loved the Dr. Doctor.  It comes in a cute little tote box, full of lots of doctor goodies.  Tyler and Benjamin both loved the beeper.  I explained to them that doctors wear beepers incase someone needs them right away.  Too cool!

"At the end of the day, our goal is to be bigger than a toy company.

We want to be a voice to children that says it’s okay to be curious, to be pensive, to be loud, to be happy and sad all at the same time, to be generous, to be afraid, to be quiet, to be wild, to be fun, to be open, to be scientific, to be poetic, to be giddy, to be serious, to be smart, to be free, to be you.

Just B. Just you. B. you."

Even better is that you can find B. toys at your local target!  So if you are still in need of a few last minute gift ideas, I highly suggest checking out B. toys.  The line is super affordable, good quality and will please any little guy or gal.

Happy shopping and merry holidays!

baker's cord.

I know by now you've all seen baker's twine, but check out this pretty baker's cord. It's nice + thick and has me trying to rationalize buying it. Even though I have twine coming out of my ears.

2011 journal.

Love the simplicity of these modern journals.

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friday favorites : by Sarah.

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a few of Sarah's favorite "holiday" things

essie's "bordeaux"
holiday craft fairs
beef bourguignon
cashmere throws
easy javalog fires
season's first snowflakes
george winston's december on the record player
each day's mail that brings a new batch of holiday cards

thanks Sarah and happy friday my friends!

go here to find out how to be a friday favorite.

burp cloths : i just don't like them.

I'm on my third baby and I've never used a burp cloth.
What?  Yes, it is true.  I will just come right on out and admit it.  I do not like them.  Typically, if you have a babe that spits up, they are just too small.  I prefer to use receiving blankets.  They are soft.  They can be folded for multiple uses, if can not grab a new one.  And wait for it, they cover a large area, great for those little ones who seem to really spit up.

Another plus?  Let's say you are wearing a shirt with a lot of details or a jacket with a zipper.  Just drape the flannel blanket across your chest and you have instant comfort for your sweet baby's head.  Plus, I've had two of my boys during cold and flu season.  My family pretty much knows that if they want to hold baby N, they need to use the blanket.  Helps keep germs in check.

My favorite blanket you ask?  The DwellStudio for Target flannel blankets.  They come in a 3pk for only $11.99.  Perfecto!

Another germ fighter, a good hand sanitizer.  I go for the alcohol-free, unscented sort.  My favorite is a foam and does not dry out your hands [x3 Clean].  I keep one in my diaper bag and one by the diaper changing station.  Plus it is great for my little guys to quickly clean their hands when they are aching to touch Nicholas.

Are you a fan of the burp cloth?
If not, what do you use?

hair help.

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Ladies, I need a little help.
During pregnancy, my hair was gorgeous.  Long, shiny, and extra healthy.

Now.
Now it is coming out.  Like a lot.
I immediately went to my go to guy and got about 3-4 inches chopped off.  It was long.  And every time I would style my hair I would need vacuum my bathroom.  Still do.  But it helps to have my hair just a wee bit shorter.  And now it is not so lovely.  I have tons of static [thanks colder weather] and it just doesn't have the same luster it did during the nine months baby N was baking.

That is why I am enlisting YOUR help.  I like to keep my products to a minimum.  I tend to have oily hair. I usually wash every day or every other day.  So I am looking for a fabulous product to use on my wet hair before I blow it dry.

Any suggestions?
What are your favorite hair products?

bloggers give back : make a difference.

My boys are super excited about Christmas.  And although I love unwrapping a gift or two at this time of year, I am trying to instill in my boys that Christmas is a time to give.

Want to know how YOU can make an impact this holiday season?

A little birdie told me about a blog called Bloggers Give Back.  Three bloggers united.  A family was chosen.  And an auction is going on.  Right this very minute!

Go check out all of the wonderful goodies they have rounded up and know that when you win something, your money is going to someone who could truly use the gift.

I'm headed there right now, you should too!

ps the auction ends to night so hurry hurry!

moo g clips : fashion clips for your little one.

I still can't believe I have three boys now.  But that doesn't stop me from dreaming about all the lovely little girl accessories that are available.

Moo G Clips just happens to offer some of the sweetest hair accessories out there.  They are simple and cute with out being too "babyish".  And today I'd like to introduce you to one of the newer products available over at Moo G Clips.  They are called Skinny Bands and just happen to be my favorite.  I think I would actually like to sport the grey skinny band this holiday season.  You can specify a size or go with the one size fits most.

What's your favorite?

ps  Did you know Moo G Clips has a facebook fan page.  Head on over and check it!
pps You can also follow on twitter : moogclips
ppps  I almost forgot... FREE SHIPPING on your order when you use the code FAVORITEFREESHIP!

crystal b. jewelry.

Do you love Crystal B as much as me?
Okay, that was a cheesy, unintended rhyme.  Sorry.
But I am sure you do.  Her craft is jewelry, of the vintage and whimsical sort.  I kind of think of Anthropologie when I catch a glimpse of her jewelry.  So it goes with out saying that I am excited to have Crystal B as one of our December sponsors!

Ladies, make sure you hint-hint to your husbands that this jewelry would make a most excellent stocking stuffer.  Or if you are like me, just buy it yourself.  Wrap it up and stick it under the tree.  Sometimes you just have to take charge.

I would have to say this lovely little ring is a current favorite of mine.  I just realized I don't own any fun and fancy rings.  How boring am I?  And let me let you in on a little secret.  Crystal often posts giveaways and discounts on her blog, so be sure to add her to your reader.  You'd hate to miss out!  And be on the look out this month.  A little birdie told me lots of new designs will be hitting the shop.

auburn soul photography : a dallas photographer.

If you ever glance in my sidebar at my fabulous sponsors, you'll notice Auburn Soul Photography.  She's the gal that does all of our family pictures.  Not only is she uber talented, she is my friend.  Lucky me, I know.  I wish I had a smidgen of the talent she's got but since I don't, I'll just borrow hers on occasion.  Check this sweet video she put together.  Talented, right?


Read Family Christmas 2010 from Dan Read on Vimeo.

winner!

We have a winner!  

Congrats Danelle!  Contact me ASAP so we can get you your lovely earrings.
As always, thanks for reading.  My Favorite Things would be nothing without you dear friends.  Have a lovely weekend.

friday favorites : by Chrissi.

a few of Chrissi's favorite things

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spell-check

girls with ambition

every Italian person I have ever met

a sparkling clean kitchen... with no piles of paper in the corner or jam in the grout...

'What About Bob' 

calendars with pictures of all the cousins. 

(Christmas presents for all extended family checked-off at once!  I use mypublisher.com)

peppermint patties

people who don't take themselves too seriously :)

chem-dry carpet spot cleaner

peeps (They're so gross they're good)

thanks Chrissi and happy friday friends!

interested in friday favorites?  go here to find out more!

have a lovely weekend.

my wish list.

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You know, incase you were wondering...

here is my Christmas wish list.

ugg knit cardy boots [grey of course]

the dvd set of Anne of Green Gables

clothbound penguin classics

clothbound penguin classics for children [especially this one]

these sweet bow earrings

an elliptical [dreamin' big]

blue tooth ear piece [with a newborn I need to be able to talk hands free, no cords!]

and, drumroll please...

SLEEP!

oh and to lose my last ten pounds of baby weight so I can fit in my clothes, hence why I need an elliptical!

ps what's on YOUR Christmas list?

smencils.

The perfect stocking stuffer for a crafty little lady.

radiance.

Walking through Target the other day I saw this Radiance Kit by Burt's Bees and snagged it. My face has been feeling a bit dry and not so radiant so I thought I'd give it a shot.

So what do I think? I think you better snag one too. I love everything in this kit! The day and night creams have healed my dry skin + the lip shimmer is my new favorite beauty find. Maybe Santa can leave you some in your stocking?

glassesUSA.com - prescription glasses.

How many of you wear prescription glasses?
I do and have since I was in grade school.  Now that I am a bit older and my taste is more refined, I like to go for designer prescription glasses but I just don't want to pay the price.  Enter one of our new December sponsors, GlassesUSA.com.

Did you know that you can buy glasses online at GlassesUSA.com?  You can even buy glasses frames without the prescription lenses.  I never even considered the option to buy fashion glasses or even prescription sunglasses anywhere but from a store at the mall.

Did you also know that you can purchase designer glasses - like Nike prescription glasses with FREE basic prescription lenses?  Pretty rockin' if you ask me.

And right now, you can take 15% off any order of glasses or sunglasses when you use the code: Favorites15.

No go forth my fellow four eyed geeks and shop around at GlassesUSA.com.  You can thank me later ;)

family portrait.

I had my friend [who just happens to be a stellar photographer of Auburn Soul] come over one day to snap a few photos of my sweet family of five.  I wanted laid back + casual.  I wanted the pictures to depict my real life.  Sometimes quiet but more often than not, CA-RAZY.  Every time I look at them I smile.  They make me happy.  Thanks so much Stephanie.  The photographs are priceless.

[this is our christmas card picture and i also ordered a 20x30 print. i loved it that much!]

friedasophie : jewelry design giveaway.

Who doesn't want a little sparkle?  A little shimmer?  A little glamour?
I am sure many of you have holiday parties to attend and we all want to look smashing, don't we?  Sometimes all it takes to dress up the little black dress is a new pair of earrings or a fabulous cocktail ring.

Today I have the lovely etsy shop friedasophie offering up a fabulous giveaway.  Her jewelry is dainty and sweet, with pops of jewel colored gems.  Would you like to be the lucky lady winning these large lotus flower earrings?  They are made of 14k gold.  Handcrafted perfection.  Throw these beauties on with a fun necklace or a bold ring and you are ready to paint the town red.

To enter please...
-visit friedasophie jewelry design
-drop us a comment [with email for easier communication]
-open to all our readers [even international!]
-tweet about the giveaway for an extra entry [just come back here to comment with the link to your tweet]
-visit My Favorite Things facebook page and LIKE us for yet another entry [again, come back here to comment telling me you LIKED us]

My friends that is a total of THREE entries.  Now get going!

GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED!

friday favorites : by Leslie.

a few of Leslie's favorite things

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breakfast for dinner

a new black sharpie marker

slobbery baby kisses

family walks

family dance parties

hot tea.

the farm at serenbe.

filling up a whole pew with family at church.

label makers.

snuggling up in our favorite pottery barn chenille blanket.

Love your list!  Family dance parties are the absolute best!

thanks Leslie and happy friday friends!

Go here to learn how to be our next Friday Favorites.

christmas presents : for the boys.

Late at night, as I rock my sweet baby N, I've been thinking a lot about what I want to get for my boys for Christmas.  I always give them a book and something they need [possibly art for their new room?].  And of course their "want" is the most important.  They practically tell me on a daily basis all the cool toys they want, so I try to really truly think what they would absolutely love.  Not just the toy of the hour but the tried and true things that I know they will go back to and play with, day after day.  My husband and I each like to be a part of the gift giving.  So I am taking over the "parent" presents and the husb is taking over the "santa" gifts.  I know he will go for legos and action figures.  My boys adore the Lego Store.  But at ages five and almost four, they are at the age of imaginative play.  They love to go on adventures, fight the bad guys and take trips to California... all in the comfort of our home.  It is amazing what they come up with.

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So with that in mind, I have decided to put together an "explorer pack".  I've had my eye on the stunning Kanken backpack and am going to splurge on one for each my boys.  Here's what I have planned to go inside...

binoculars
headlamp
crayons
field notes
compass
map
spy glass
magnifying glass

I know my boys will be thrilled with the pack and no doubt have fun exploring the day away.

diy friday: yarn ball wreath.

This yarn ball wreath is so cute and clever. Learn to make one to add to your holiday decor from Marta's How To Series.