Momma Gets Real

Coming to a Store Near You.

2012-02-02T04:16:00.005-06:00

I have no excuse...

... other than life...

for putting this on the back burner.

But this is the week...

I'm making it a priority to get some more necklaces up

to IMpressionZ Salon and Spa.

THIS WEEK.

Here's a sneak peak of what's to come...

... my best sellers ...

...animal prints and the ever popular grey.

I'm also hoping to have time to add red or pink to the collection ...

.... incase you need a pop of color in your Valentines wardrobe.

{smile}

Clearly I'm bias... but I think they're super cute.

Did you notice?

I changed a minor detail.

Most of these necklaces are made using a silver ball chain...

instead of my usual leather cord.

And I skipped making a "bloom"...

I think it makes them more casual?

Anyways...

This "version" is something I'm doing just for IMpressionZ.

My original rosettes will still be available at Dear Nicole.

Hope you stop by!

{smile}

WIWW.

2012-02-01T00:02:00.003-06:00

Is it Wednesday already?

... wait... is it February?...

(looks like May around here)

Here was my last weeks wardrobe...

eye appointments for Greta and I

green cropped sweater: Forever 21

pink cami: Aeropostale

hot pink rosette necklace: Dear Nicole, Etsy

jeggings: Christopher Straub, Maurices

boots: Target

morning with Henry at preschool and then grocery day

(I only get groceries every 2 weeks... so "grocery day" is an afternoon "event")

top: Walmart

wood necklace: Target

leather cuff: Farmgirl Paints, etsy

bootcut jeans: Vigoss, Maurices

clogs: Born, Von Maur

Peanut visit and other errands

top: Threads, Von Maur

( I actually wore it in the early stages of my pregnancy with Henry)

...but it's not maternity. {smile}

leather braided bracelet: Hobby Lobby

cameo ring: from high school days

skinnies: Silver, Maurices

boots: Target

finally my hair appointment... it was way overdue.

by-the-way... this outfit was better than pj's.

top: Target clearance

I'm lovin' the dolman sleeve right now

rosette necklace: Dear Nicole, etsy

ring: Silpada

leggings: Walmart

boots: Target

church

(chloe's teeth made an appearance... yikes)

navy cardi: Target

scarf: xmas gift from husband

bracelet: Silpada

brown mum ring: made by me

corduroy dress: clearance rack at Dress Barn

tights: Target?

(the dog put a run in them, right as I walked out the door)

boots: Payless Shoes

***

Linked with Lindsey...

shop DEAR NICOLE

my last weeks WIWW

***

20 minute Valentine.

2012-01-31T04:19:00.001-06:00

Confession: I told Nikki right before I listed our Valentine wreaths in the shop, that I wouldn't be too disappointed if they didn't sell... because they were super cute and we could put them up in our own homes.

Of course they sold... but I'm not complaining, pinky swear... we love our customers... and it's even more gratifying to know someone else loves our products as much as we do.

But, it's almost February 1st and my poor door has been barren... no signs of V day... so I whipped up something cheery yesterday.

What would I do without frames?... my house would be sooo boring. {wink}

***

-old empty frame

(actually the corner was broken on this particular frame...

...so it was perfect for this project)

-scrap fabric

-35 cent paper cupid

-scrabble letters

( I happen to have all this on hand)

hint: when I use frames on my front door...

I use putty on the back of the frame to keep it in place

and it also helps from scratching the paint.

***

And now my guests are properly greeted by Ms. Cupid ...

...ahem, ... is it just me or does my cupid have have a J. Lo booty?

Facts of the Family.

2012-01-30T00:01:00.002-06:00

I saw this somewhere... thought I'd share...

Words that best describe us:

loud. chaotic. creative. loyal

Favorite thing to do as a family over the weekend:

Nothing. We like to "vegg" and relax. We're true "introverts". Friday nights are dedicated to playing cards with friends... everyone looks forward to it... including the kids. Saturday mornings usually involve a "camp"... this month it's basketball for the girls. And lately we've been taking the kids to and from birthday parties.

The rest of the weekend we're either watching DVR'd shows, football, playing Wii, or crafting.

Most importantly we try keep the kids from killing each other... for reals.

What we value most as a family:

Being there for each other. Supporting everyone's "calling".

I've found eating dinner at the kitchen table... is critical. To be honest... I'm the one that would rather "grab something quick" and eat in front of the t.v. But... I've found eating together as a family to be the best therapy. Even when one of the kids is having a fit over broccoli.

What we value most in relationships:

When it comes to our friends and family... we appreciate, "Cut the bullsh!t. Tell me how you really feel. " It works for us. {smile}.

We like to eat ____:

Tacos, goulash, homemade pizza, crab rangoons, popcorn shrimp, cheesy hotdogs, cheesecake, meatballs, popcorn, summer sausage... right off the top of my head {smile}

Wait... Greta wanted me to add Dinty Moore Stew... with flaky biscuits. (don't judge... pretty please)

Our most annoying habits:

We're screamers (something I am desperately trying to stop).

Parenting style:

WE ARE PERFECT. {cough} ...not.

That's a tough-y... because our children are 11, 9 and 4 years old. That's a wide range of "discipline" styles.

Greta is the oldest ...

... and she's a girl with attitude. (I don't know where she got it? .... ahemm)... but she's always been our toughest child to discipline. She's super passionate when she's right ... and super passionate when she's wrong.

The best method of discipline for her... is to give her a consequence ...and send her to her room to "simmer down". After a few "short hours", she'll snap back to reality and we can finally get through to her. (right now she's without her beloved ipod for 5 days) Her "episodes" are an all. day. event. It's like a triathlon... dead.serious.

She hasn't figured out yet that, I. always .win.

Maisie...

She's the complete opposite of Greta. She rarely gets in trouble. But, if you catch her doing something "shady"... she'll plead the fifth and shut down. We joke that she'll work for the CIA one day... because, she can "straight face" lie ... without flinching. I caught her eating chalk (a few years back) and she looked me dead in the eye (mind you, with chalk running out the corners of her mouth).. and said, "I don't know what that is?... I didn't eat chalk... I swear."

How do I discipline that? ... the child's a genius. Good thing she's a pretty good kid, 99% of the time.

Henry...

...ahhh Mr. Henry. He just turned 4 years old. He's my stubborn, wild child. He throws stuff while in "time out"... and likes to barricade himself in his room when he's in trouble. Spanking doesn't work, yelling doesn't work, "time -out's" only work 50% of the time. Pray for me. No really... pray for me.

Phrase that is waaaay overused in your household right now (and drives you crazy):

I'm super tired of telling Henry, "get your finger out of your nose."

What you are most likely to be doing if you randomly stopped by:

mmm... depends on what time of the day? If you stopped in RIGHT NOW... I'd be blogging, with a sleeping dog on my lap, Maisie and Henry would be painting at the table, Greta would be watching "Cupcake Wars".

Our most endearing quality:

I think we are an easily approachable family... (saying this after I told you we were screamers... LOL).

My hope is that what you see... is what you get... we love hard, play hard, fight hard, ... but most importantly we cherish our friends and family.

We lean on in them in hard times and I hope we are their rock in return.

linked with Life Made Lovely.

Insta-Friday.

2012-01-27T01:03:00.004-06:00

We had Henry's Monster Jam birthday party.

We had cookies and snow.

We had Greta's first Spelling Bee.

We had gi-normous taco salads... yum.

We had custom orders for the shop.

We had lunch with Peanut during her break from the hospital.

Chloe napped... a lot.

Chloe isn't a big fan of the snow... or being cold for that matter.

We bought Valentines.

I love all things "handmade"...

but for Valentines? ... they're always store bought in my house.

I did some jewelry organizing.

As you can tell, I'm fancy and classy...

I used Dollar General plastic totes and masking tape. {wink}

We have bad guys... and good guys in the house.

We got new Pumas... well, Henry got new Pumas for his birthday.

We had grandma's famous pecan rolls...

Oh my, they are the death of me.

I could eat and eat and eat the whole tub.

We made a trip to the hospital to see Peanut...
...who is now back for her FINAL round of chemo.

I have an eye allergy...

...you know, the type that makes you want to scratch your eye out.

Hence, glasses were a permanent accessory this week.

And lastly, we had Teddy Bear Picnic at preschool.

The kids acted out The Three Bears... it was adorable.

I called Jen when it was over and said sadly...

"It was baby's last Teddy Bear Picnic" . {boo}

whew... it was a busy one.

I hope next week will be slower.

{smile}

Happy Friday!

Her Story.

2012-01-26T05:33:00.000-06:00

***

It's hard to put this "experience" into words.

And I won't... (not yet anyway) ... because we aren't done.

If we have learned anything about leukemia...

...it's not to get ahead of ourselves.

We are to trust the process... practice patience...and expect the unexpected.

Take it one day at a time? ... ummm no.

More like take it 1 hour at a time.

***

Case in point...

Yesterday was a good day... till it wasn't.

I know... it doesn't always make sense.

I took this picture right before I left...

And 4 hours later...

... she spiked a fever.

Fevers are scary.

Fevers make everyone nervous.

Fevers lead to more drugs... more decisions...

... and heartbreak for a baby that doesn't understand.

But... we have to trust she'll get through it.

***

I want to tell you how crazy and surreal it is to live through this.

And I mean... as her aunt... as Mandy's sister...

and as a mother to my own children.

I don't want to take anything away from Corey and Mandy

...because this is their story.

I can only speculate.

I can tell you this.

Eryn is in the middle of her last round of chemo.

It's a doosey... it's intensive.

But it's her last round.

Man, I can't wait to kick leukemia's butt out the door.

WIWW.

2012-01-25T00:02:00.003-06:00

Hello! It's WIWW...

I'm Nicky.

lunch date with my mom, sister, and Eryn

orange tunic: gift from mom

gray long tee: Target

rosette necklace: Dear Nicole, etsy

skinnies: Premium GAP skinnies, GAP outlet

lug boots: Target

Tuesday, Henry's birthday

navy striped tee: Target

red rose necklace: I made for Dear Nicole,

... but they never made it to the shop.

If you want one... contact me.

zipper bracelet: gift from Nikki

jeggings: Christopher Straub, Maurices

cowboy boots: Tony Lama, thrifted

top: Cameron's, Vinton
rosette necklace: Dear Nicole, etsy
mum ring: made by me
grunge-y old jeans: super, super old ... Target
(I was going to be doing lots of getting in and out of my car
... and I knew the bottom of my jeans would be soaked by the end of the day)
BUT, after looking at this pic... they're going in the trash... so not flattering.
uggs: Nordstrom

BUNCO

cardi: Forever 21

tee: Target

jeggings: Christopher Straub, Maurices

camo & gold Pumas: Von Maur

(I always feel like I'm channeling Michael Johnson in them)

glasses: Ray ban

Friday night cards

and Scentsy Party

(bad blurry pictures, sorry)

tunic: Gordmans

tee: Target

necklace: etsy, Erika Peach

yellow mum earrings: etsy, Pretty Perch

jeggings: Christopher Straub, Maurices

boots: Target

***

Join the fashion guru's here...

shop Dear Nicole HERE...

last weeks WIWW HERE

Help Me.

2012-01-24T04:47:00.002-06:00

So, I don't know what's worse?

Henry's dire need of a haircut...

... or the fact...

I'm watching a marathon of Prison Wives on t.v.?

***

Hello, I'm Nicky...

and I'm addicted to watching ridiculous tv marathons.

Some of my favorites addictions...

Locked Up Abroad, Prison Wives, Deadliest Catch, & Alaska State Troopers.

It's a sickness.

***

Henry Celebrates.

2012-01-23T04:49:00.001-06:00

HENRY'S GRAVE DIGGER PARTY...

"Lets get ready to ruuuumble!" ...

(wait I think that's for boxing...)

"Start your engines!"...

(not exactly right either...)

ahemm ...moving on...

table scape:

Good ole' roll of cardboard paper from Dollar General.

Sharpie pen to trace tracks and fun MonsterJam quotes

Grave digger plates and cups thanks to Amazon.

I made the checkered flags from the cupcake liners.

party favors:

matchbox car

jar of Grave Digger slime (your welcome parents)

Monster Jam tattoos

Swinging from the chandelier...

... a autographed flag from Mr. Digger himself.

(thanks to my husbands good friend)

My birthday boy...

... and his buds.

The only girl... Ms. Zoe.

I love that she came to Henry's party ...

...full of loud, smelly, rough boys.

And ...in an adorable Valentines outfit.

I can't believe how fast time flies.

Is he really going to be 4 years old tomorrow?

Uggg... my baby.

***

Did you hear that Picnik is closing in April? ... totally bums me out. I use them in conjunction with iphoto... love them. Until they close, they're letting us use their "premium" editing tools for free. So for Henry's party pics I used, "cinema scope and grit premium"... you should check them out and play around.

Have a great week... I'll be over here reminiscing and going on ...and on about my baby turning 4... don't mind me. {wink}

linked with Heather at Life Made Lovely.

Be My Valentine.

2012-01-22T04:30:00.000-06:00

XOXO banner

(close up)

heart shaped valentine wreath with banner

sweetheart banners

red polka dot wreath with banner

red hot rosette necklace

... all items available in the shop.

A Recipe from Momma... for reals.

2012-01-21T07:37:00.001-06:00

Snow Ice Cream:

8 cups of snow

1/2 cup of sugar

1/2 Tbsp vanilla

1 cup of milk

optional: chocolate syrup

Eat immediately.

Easiest recipe I've ever followed...

...pinky swear and girl scouts honor.

{wink}

p.s.

I have a lovely follower, your goggle name is: "Selzermint"...

and I've been trying to get a hold of you, with no luck. (boo)

I've signed up as a follower of your blog...

... and I'm STILL unable to leave you a comment?

Pretty please let me know what I'm doing wrong?

I'd love to say, "hi."

Thanks!

Insta- Friday.

2012-01-20T04:27:00.008-06:00

***

Maisie's "nerdy cool" glasses.

Red glitter hearts sprinkled around the house.

Warm coffee first thing in the morning.

Rose Bud... nail polish ... and my favorite cozy gloves.

Puppy tug-a-war...

...and believe it or not, the 7 pound puppy always wins.

I love Preschool art.

Henry and his fire truck hat make an appearance around town.

Books inside and snow outside!

***

Another eye appointment for Greta...

... which she passed with flying colors. {whew}

Birthday Party prepping.

11 degree temps ...

... and stocking up for a possible snowed-in weekend.

(yes... I bought beer... but I got fruit too, mkay)

Valentines wreaths for the shop...

Forgetting that a late start at elementary school...

...DOES NOT mean a late start at preschool... opps.

TGIF.

***

If I had an iPhone...

2012-01-19T06:31:00.000-06:00

I would obsessing about which one of these cool cases I would buy ...

Seriously?!

... how can you pick just one?

(all cases from Society 6)

WIWW.

2012-01-18T00:02:00.000-06:00

Hi...

Welcome to my "what I wore last week" post.

Only 3 outfits this week... the rest of the time spent in sweats.

{wink}

top: Rue 21

necklace: Camerons, Vinton

bracelets: Fern Hill and Antiques

ring: Silpada

black skinnies: Aeropostale

booties: Marshalls

cardi: Forever 21

top: Kohls

rosette necklace: etsy, Dear Nicole

ring: Funky Vintage Lovely

jeans: Vigoss, Maurices

boots: Famous Brand Shoes Outlet

cardi: Banana Republic, thrifted

top: Target

necklace & ring: Silpada

skinnies: thrifted

boots: target

***

linked with Lindsey...

shop DEAR NICOLE, etsy

my last week's WIWW

Shellac: Rose Bud Review.

2012-01-17T03:16:00.007-06:00

Shellac: Rose Bud.

I'm not normally a "pink" girl...

...but I wanted a something soft this time around...

...nothing shocking ... a classic.

I don't think it would of worked for me in the summertime with a tan.

I'd be afraid it would of looked more like ...

...well... a 1980's mauve. {yikes}

But for winter... and my pale skin...

...it gets an A+.

Burnt Out.

2012-01-16T04:41:00.002-06:00

I admit... I've been burnt. out. [period]

My only connection to anything "DIY" has been through through Pinterest .

(unfortunately these colors are off...

the flowers are actually cherry red, burgundy and mustard

...no orange)

So, while I've been successful at filling up my pin boards... my other projects have gone by the way side.

Until ... a friend asked me to jazz up her wreath... and that fuzzy warm feeling came back... (I promise it had nothing to do with a diet coke and captain morgan)... and my "craft-geek persona" awakened ... and sang alleluia.

Thank goodness ... I have lots to do... here's to a creative and successful week. {smile}

***

You know who else is going to have a great week?

The lucky person who won my Little House Frau Give-away!

ahem... (drum roll please)

We have a local winner!

Ms. Amy Becker!

...you, go on with your bad self!

Normally, I'd be doing the happy dance,

BUT since this is Jen's give-away...

she'd probably do something involving a

"show choir / jazz hands" move.

I'll be dropping off your goodies ASAP, Amy!

If You Have to ...

2012-01-14T13:50:00.000-06:00

...pay your bills...

...why not do it with a cute ruffled checkbook cover?

And you'll need a pair of nerdy eyeglasses ...

that you can keep safe in your fabulous matching soft case.

Enter the give-away HERE.

Maisie's latest purchase...

... a pair of "nerdy cool" (her words, not mine)... glasses.

That kid cracks me up. {smile}

Insta- Friday

2012-01-13T08:00:00.004-06:00

***

Just when I praise him for getting up in the middle of the night...

to use the bathroom...

...he goes and wets. the. bed. ... uggg.

And yes... he bathes with duck decoys... that's how we roll.

The kids love grandmas gift of ketchup and mustard pumps...

...it's the little things that make us happy, right. {smile}

A happy assortment of Little House Frau merchandise.

Our PC quit me... so peanut got a "new to her" keyboard.

... she's the computer whiz in the family anyways.

Henry loves the library's PC... I love the Arthur headphones.

Non-stop art in our house...

... and Maisie's rendition of a tattoo on a hand...mmmm?

Henry has proclaimed he will have a Grave Digger birthday.

You got it buddy.

I finally got my butt in gear and made some necklaces for the shop.

Have you seen Nikki's awesome Valentine banners?

Have a great weekend!

***

Oh...and...

Don't forget about the Little House Frau giveaway.

I mean... I did a VLOG people.

How can you resist a VLOG and a give -away?!

{smile}

Momma's First Vlog and Little House Frau Give Away!

2012-01-12T10:20:00.007-06:00

Rules:

1. Give -away ends Sunday night (CST) 10pm.

2. Must be a follower of Momma Gets Real.

3. Check out Little House Frau at Etsy

... then come back and leave a comment about something you like.

***

Do you ever look at a picture of yourself and think, "do I really look like that?"

..." and sound like that?"

... that's exactly how I felt watching this... LOL

I'm a bit nasal...

I made garlic chicken for lunch that day...

...it stunk up the whole house and made me sneeze for a good 2 hours.

Besides that... this "vlog" thing is very humbling... {smile}

Good luck to the winner!

WIWW.

2012-01-11T00:03:00.001-06:00

Hello friends...

church

tweed blazer: Goodwill

(I had a "sweet baby Jesus" moment when I spotted it)

ruffled blouse: Target

flower pins: Hobby Lobby

bracelet: Fern Hill Antiques

ring: made from great grandma's clip on earring

trouser jeans: Apt. 9, Kohls

boots: Famous Brand Shoes Outlet

family night out

top: Target clearance rack

necklace: made by me

earrings: House of Harlow, Nordstrom

jeggings: Christopher Straub, Maurices

boots: Target, Kemaria biker boot

top: H&M

necklace: etsy, Dear Nicole

ring: made by me

skinnies: thrifted

boots: Target

boot socks: Kohls

peanut visit

top: TJMaxx

necklace: Lisa Leonard Designs, family tree

ring: gift from Denissa

cargos: thrifted

Pumas: Nordstrom, 4 years ago

I remember shopping with my mom, while pregnant with Henry,

and my feet were killing me, so we stopped and purchased these Pumas.

They were life savers at the time.

***

linked with ...

shop DEAR NICOLE, etsy

my last weeks WIWW.

2012-01-10T04:19:00.002-06:00

This little light of mine...

I'm gonna let it shine.

Let it shine.

Family Night Out.

2012-01-09T01:24:00.005-06:00

***

Scheels window shopping.

The boys were giddy in the hunting section... the girls were bored.

Gamestop ... Greta and Maisie still had a couple gift cards to spend.

Greta bought WipeOut for the Wii, Maisie got WipeOut for her DS.

(neither knew till they were checking out... too funny)

Chili's for supper.

Shrimp Tacos... delicious.

Henry mesmerized by the moon following us home.

(do your remember thinking that as a kid?... I do.)

Henry also singing the lyrics to Adele...

(maybe I should put another CD on rotation)

Early bedtimes...

... and the hubs and I watching the movie, "Horrible Bosses".

Family Night Out... went swimmingly.

***

linked with LIFE MADE LOVELYMONDAY.

The House Got Botox.

2012-01-06T01:28:00.005-06:00

If you read this post... you understand...

***

canvas prints from Easy Canvas Prints

***

This table in our entry always gets a seasonal makeover

...here my version of "winter"...

custom banner from our shop

***

(large canvas also from Easy Canvas Prints)

***

(grandma's beloved cheesecake recipe...

that she gave me Christmas morning... cherish)

***

I spent some of our Christmas money on updated pictures of the kids. I've been meaning to do this for years... yep. years. Greta was 6 years old and Maisie was 4 years old on my previous gallery wall. (shameful, right) ...

The good thing is ... instead of wrestling all the kids for a "professional" photo shoot in the mall... which always involves boob sweat ...and a child in tears... I was able to photo shop these pictures from my very own couch. I used iphoto (already on my MacBook) and Picnik for my photo editing software. Easy Canvas Prints had an awesome promotion going on before and after Christmas (pssst... and still do now)... and I'm super happy with my purchases.

Have a great weekend!

I'm going to attempt to make grandma's cheesecake...

if all else fails... I can't mess up opening a can of cherry pie filling.

{smile}

linked with Heather at Life Made Lovely Monday

Journey to Eryn.

2012-01-05T04:23:00.004-06:00

I pray for a speedy recovery.

I pray for a complete remission.

I pray for brighter days.

I pray she will not spike a high fever.

I pray that she doesn't have to endure itchy & painful chemo rashes.

I pray for white blood cells.

I pray for her to have an appetite.

I pray for her birthday to be spent at home with her family.

I pray to see her sweet blonde locks again.

I pray that her momma can tuck her in her own bed at night.

I pray her momma and daddy can have peace of mind.

I pray her momma can continue to stand strong ...

... while staring at the face of FEAR.

I pray for her.

WIWW.

2012-01-04T00:01:00.001-06:00

Hi!

I'm Nicky... if you're new here... welcome!

#1
top: JCrew Outlet
scarf: Camerons, Vinton
'momma' cuff: Farmgirl Paints, Etsy
wood ring: Target
jeggings: Christopher Straub, Maurices
boots: Target

scarf: made by me

top: Forever 21

bracelet: Claires

jeans: Vigoss, Maurices

boots: ?... super old

New Years Eve

tunic: thrifted

necklace: stole from my mom, Nordstrom

ring: Target

bracelets: Fern Hill Gifts and Antiques

skinnies: Silver, Maurices

boots: Target

boyfriend cardi: Target

scarf: Old Navy

skinnies: thrifted

boot socks: Kohls

boots: Target

top: Old Navy

crochet scarf: made by me

cuff: Farmgirl Paints

skinnies: Vigoss, Maurices

boots: Tony Lama, thrifted

Need some fashion inspiration? go here:

my last weeks WIWW

shop Dear Nicole

Last Day of Break.

2012-01-03T00:12:00.002-06:00

(Monday in photos)

You'll see a few resolutions... already in action...

I'm trying to treat my body better... and get back on track.

Yes, Diet Coke... counts as a veggie in my book, mkay.

... don't even try to convince me otherwise.

Hello, crochet fingerless gloves... and "the perfect

shade of purple" handbag. (both Christmas gifts)

Over the weekend, I found "the dress" I'm wearing to my husbands holiday party. If you're in the area... Francesca's has a sick clearance rack right now... I got this bold beauty for $10.

Another resolution I have is to be more present...

... with all the children... but especially Greta. We've entered the "awkward stage"... she's transitioning from child... to a little lady. She's finding her voice (good and bad), her sense of style, and she's "coming into her own". This is a gray area... uncharted territory ...for me and her dad... trying not to squash dreams, or step over boundaries, and respect her privacy... all while still being "the parent." It's going to be a terrifying roller coaster of a ride!

And lastly, I leave you with a funny story.

We spent New Years Eve with friends...

...and while playing The Newlywed game...

...this question was presented to my husband,

"If she won $500 from the lottery, what would she do?"

he answered...

"She'd buy a purse and a diet coke."

And that my friends ....is 14 years of marriage.

Cuckoo for Pattern.

2012-01-02T01:20:00.002-06:00

And that's just whats in my living room.

***

Today we re-group.

It's last day of Christmas break for the kiddos...

... the last morning to sleep in ... and slowly put on the coffee.

It's the last day... well... to chill-ax.

I've never been a new years resolution kind of girl...

Never... say never.

This year I have a handful of them...

But, because I'm still superstitious...

I can't say them out loud.

Ohhh... I have great plans for this year...

Bring it on 2012.

Ring in the New Year with Eryn.

2012-01-01T00:00:00.002-06:00

How about a song...

And a dance...

Happy New Year!

Insta-Friday

2011-12-30T03:19:00.004-06:00

***

All the kids had their dentist appointments

Henry actually sat in the chair ... you rock Dr. Megan!

Greta got bangs... she's "over the moon" about it.

The girls spent their Target gift cards ...

... they had a "hay day" shopping with their own money.

Maisie bought 3 packages of CRAZERASERS...

...pastel markers, a snake bracelet, socks and a Raccoon Family.

Greta bought purple boots, socks and 3 sweaters and a swimsuit.

I didn't spend a penny. Man, I Love gift cards!

Peanut is recovering from her 3rd round of chemo...

...only ONE more round to go.

I got 2 weeks worth of groceries.

We've decided we aren't waiting for a snow day...

to have hot cocoa.

And finally,

Maisie was in the paper for her donation to Locks of Love.

Greta said, "Maisie, it's like you're a superstar!"

***

See you next year!

linked with Jeanette at ....

Owls and Botox.

2011-12-29T04:39:00.003-06:00

(reeled you in with that title, didn't I!)

My mom fed into my owl obsession and got me an adorable vase for Christmas...

I decided to jazz it up with some felt flowers.

And I'm still situating the house... I can't seem to help myself ...

... but each year after Christmas... it seems the main living areas get a little make over... just a bit of rearranging. Nothing major... a mini face lift... like a shot of botox. {wink}

What? ... it's boring to put everything back EXACTLY like it was, right? That's what I tell my husband anyways... he's used to my madness.

As soon as I get the darn tree out of my living room... I can finish up. That's the bummer about chopping down a real tree every year... you can't pack it up and store it away.

And I happen to have a husband that would gladly live with a pine tree in our living room year round... for reals.

I'm pretty sure I'll get claustrophobic from it before weeks end. Lets hope it gets dragged outta here soon. {smile}

WIWW.

2011-12-28T00:02:00.002-06:00

what I wore last week... posted on this Wednesday.

Hi! I'm Nicky.

Christmas Eve and my mom's birthday

top: Target (might be a swim cover-up)

necklaces & ring: Target

skinnies: Silver, Maurices

boots: Target

Christmas

(dusty mirror, sorry)

cardi: Target

scarf: xmas gift from husband

ring: I made from my great grandma's earring

cotton dress: Express

leggings: Walmart

boots: Target

doctors appt. (Henry has an infected toe)

& grocery shopping for Christmas Eve dinner

flannel: Walmart

headband: Claires

necklace: World Market

leggings: Target

boots: Target

another doctors appt., this time for Greta

sweater: Target

blouse: Old Navy

ring: Etsy, Dear Nicole

skinnies: thrifted

boots: Target

? I don't remember what i did ?

top: GAP Outlet

family tree necklace: Lisa Leonard Designs

cuff: thrifted

jeans: Silver, Maurices

moccasins: Payless Shoes

***

go here for fashion inspiration:

go here to shop Dear Nicole

go here for my last week's WIWW

Agenda.

2011-12-27T02:45:00.004-06:00

Hello.

So...

I'm putting my home back together .

(all Christmas decor is down, except for the tree)

I'm putting batteries in all the new "woo woo's".

I'm on iTunes downloading games and music for the girls.

I'm planning activities for the kids' break.

I'm eating lots of leftovers.

I'm stepping on little, hard, plastic SWAT and Army men.

I'm collecting lots of art from Maisie.

I'm learning new moves from Just Dance 3.

I'm pulling ornament hooks out of the vacuum.

And I'm ... well...

chill-axing.

***

What have you been doing?

It Was Merry & Bright.

2011-12-26T02:08:00.002-06:00

(Maisie enjoying sparkling cider)

2011-12-24T00:09:00.002-06:00

***

Merry Christmas!

***

xoxo

A Life Changing Product.

2011-12-23T01:16:00.003-06:00

The dramatics over here, right! ... I'm talking "product"...

... but IT IS LIFE CHANGING... pinky swear.

So, I have bangs... I've had bangs for most of my life... (minus a college year and the time I had a short bob....) and I played sports in high school and college... and I wish this product was available waaaayyyy back then ... because it's annoying to have bangs when you are sweating and running around.

I've tried many remedies...

I've pinned them back. Which only leads to strands of hair randomly sticking out ...and then by the end of the game your bangs resemble your 1990 school picture. (not a good look)

I've worn headbands. And NONE of them ever stayed on my head... NONE... the hard plastic ones would slip right off... and the soft stretchy bands... always ended up in my my pony tail after a few seconds... FRUSTRATING.

Not any more sisters! I played rec. volleyball on Wednesday night... and I wore the Bani Band Soft Grip Adjustable Headband. (by the way... not getting paid for this endorsement... but I'm not opposed to Bani Band contacting me... ahemm... cough...)

IT. STAYED. PUT. THE. WHOLE. GAME.

The whole game, my friends. Life changing.

It has something to do with the velvety texture on the underside... that grips every hair strand and keeps it in place. The part of the band that sits on the base of your head, is adjustable like a bra strap... GENIUS.

The fabric options are endless... they have a HUGE selection... here are some of my favorites...

Maisie owns this darling cheetah print

sequins in every color

sport themes

and everyday wear.

I got Greta's gold sequin band at Scheels... it was a birthday present ... (my "odd" shaped head must be genetic)... and she's worn it almost every day since.

I stole it last night for the game... and she may not get it back...

... I hope Santa brings her more. {wink}

Happy Friday.

The Slow Down.

2011-12-22T03:22:00.002-06:00

It hit yesterday.

The chaos came to a halt.

The slooooow down arrived.

I didn't have anywhere to be...

and there were no deadlines.

The shop orders were filled... and delivered...

And the last of the gifts are wrapped.

What's a girl to do?

I balanced my checkbook.

Marked important dates on the 2012 calendar.

Confiscated rifles from a naughty, Henry.

Caught up on blogs.

Made a new blog header.

Scheduled our tax appointment.

Browsed Etsy.

Gathered ideas from Pinterest for Peanut's new "big girl" room.

Prayed for a white Christmas.

(by-the-way, where is all the snow?)

Popped in "Ice Age" for Henry and his playdate, Zoe.

And made Maisie lemon bars.

Best part...

I did it all in my slippers.

ahhhh... I love sloooooow down.

WIWW.

2011-12-21T00:01:00.002-06:00

Merry Christmas!

... another Wednesday... another wiww...

groceries, errands, BUNCO

gray/green cardi: Target

yellow polka dot tee: Target

hummingbird necklace: from Great Grandma Ruth's jewelry box

jeggings: Christopher Straub, Maurices

gray boots: Target

Took Henry to see Santa...

...and getting last minute supplies for Dear Nicole

gray polka dot cardi: Target

butterfly dress: H&M

bloom earrings: Claires ring: Silpada

family tree necklace: Lisa Leonard Designs

leggings: Target

gray boots: Target (same as outfit #1)

Christmas on my husbands side

cardi: Target

silky tunic: Kohls

necklace: made by me

(initial charms came from 2 Jennifers,

...a shop I visited at the Ankeny craft show)

skinnies: thrifted

boots: Target

and because...

I couldn't resist taking a picture of

the fashionable, Ms. Greta

knit vest: H&M kids

tee: GAP kids Outlet

red bloom pin: Dear Nicole, etsy

Hat: Claires

messenger bag: Children's Place

dimples to die for: all hers...

Peanut visit

tee: Target

waffe tee: thrifted

necklace: Dear Nicole, available at IMpressionZ

jeggings: Christopher Straub, Maurices

mocassins: Payless Shoes

***

linked here...

my last weeks WIWW

shop Dear Nicole

***

Greta's Space.

2011-12-20T03:12:00.002-06:00

I'd don't know if I'd call it an official "tour"...we'll call it "snippets" of Greta's room.

Oh... before we begin... "FOR. THE. RECORD." ... her bed placement is not my idea... it's all hers.

She's been asking me to rearrange her room for a few months now... and I've been putting it off... mostly because I wasn't sure how I was going to work the space, since she wanted her bed wedged in an awkward corner. ... for reals... you'll see.

Alas... it's a battle I lost... and I surprised her with her "newly re-arranged room" a couple weeks ago. It was like Christmas... she was so happy. And it was FREE.

Oh I take it back... I did purchase that wicker stool at consignment for $3... since her previous nightstand was too big for the space. SO, $3.00. Still not bad.

... hello awkward bed...

...wedged between the door and the closet...ugg.

...which is truly unfortunate, since her room is a generous size.

(okay... telling myself to let it go... )

Yo.

2011-12-19T03:57:00.006-06:00

Yo ... listen up boys...

...there's a couple things you should know about...

that'll make any girl happy.

pinky swear.

***

A new pair of shoes ...

... sparkly fairy wings ...

... a "pretty" accessory for our hair...

And finally, a good book... errr Nook.

Got it?

... great, I need to get back to the laundry.

Weekend Humor.

2011-12-17T03:27:00.002-06:00

I don't know what makes me laugh harder ...

This...

(totally me... by the way)

- maybe I should start jogging...

-ha, ha, I'm not gonna start jogging.

... or this...

Oh my goodness... my cheeks hurt from laughing so hard.

***

I took Henry to see Santa yesterday.

And during their conversation about "good and bad" behavior...

Henry told Santa, " he wasn't going to help pick up his toys."

Santa said sadly that might get him on the naughty list.

So, Henry proceeded to grunt... like a rabid animal.

Ummm ... I'm pretty sure there was some spit involved...

(let me clarify... he did not actually "spit at him")

but during the grunt/cough/gasp ...

...there was a shower of spit...

Poor Santa had to wipe his face off with a hankie.

So I did what any mother would have done...

I pretended he wasn't my child.

Have a great weekend.

Thrifting Gods & a Sale.

2011-12-16T03:19:00.003-06:00

It's been awhile hasn't it?

The Gods were out again last week... and holy moly... if only I had a wallet full of cash. I could of spent some serious moo...laa!

So, If I did? ... I would of bought this...

...it's a low console... I'd lacquer it a glossy white and add some funky knobs. My t.v. would love to rest on top of this beauty.

My second purchase would of been this lovely buffet... alleluia! "Hello, sweet thang."

Ahemm... {cough} ... does it remind you of anything? ... it's like I found it's long lost twin. Ironically I got mine at this same thrifting store, Stuff Consignment in Coralville. For some reason this one wants a fun coat of turquoise blue ... maybe with some roughing around the edges. What can I say... it spoke to me.

And lastly, I'd DEFINITELY get this...

I know! ... it was super hard to part with her... look at her legs... she so quirky, yet bold... definitely a "one of a kind piece"... she deserves a good home.

Alas, I came home with these two hoodlums...

Believe it or not, that small white stool is a perfect fit for Greta's room ... and the GI- normous orange lamp? ... well, that's my next DIY project for peanut's room.

So, I left the furniture there ... I orphaned them ... if you have any love in your heart... you'd adopt.

However, if you want me to foster them... and clean them up for you... I'd might be persuaded to take on a project... I'd be a good foster momma... pinky swear. {wink}

***

On a side note...

My necklaces (specifically THIS selection)...

are on sale TODAY at Impressionz Salon and Spa...

for any last minute shoppers... stocking stuffers...

teacher gifts... you name it.

Shop local... and shop handmade!

Sales starts at 4 p.m. and ends at 7p.m.

And they are providing wine and cider... yum.

The Week Before Christmas.

2011-12-15T04:15:00.002-06:00

The girls' Christmas programs have been attended.

The tree has been cut down and placed in my living room window.

There is entirely too much holiday candy tempting me.

Henry has gone through 2 paint pallets in 2 days.

(feeling thankful... that he stays entertained for an hour)

Santa wrote us letters all the way from the North Pole.

T-shirt scarf DIY done.

Paper bag DIY stars added to my wall.

Dear Nicole packages in the mail.

Christmas cards are addressed and waiting for photos to be added to them.

A puppy's hind legs literally freezing in the snow.

(trying to figure out how to get a small puppy to potty in the snow)

Early Christmas with Peanut and family.

Cleaning and rearranging Greta's room.

(pics coming soon)

Church... I love church at Christmas time.

Dharma and Greg re-runs.

Baking... NOT... just checking to see if your still listening!

Hankering to watch Family Stone... and Christmas Vacation.

Greta loosing teeth right and left.

Henry being so excited about Christmas he can barely stand it.

and...

Nesting... not wanting to leave the house...

... I get this way every December.

Most importantly...

Reminding myself to slow down and enjoy the season...

and to be thankful in all circumstances.

WIWW.

2011-12-14T00:03:00.000-06:00

Hi! ... this is my "what i wore last week, but posting on Wednesday" post...

Christmas at my sisters'

(ignore this dorky pose, please)

cardi: TJMaxx

tunic: Marshalls

rosette necklace: Dear Nicole, Etsy

skinnies: thrifted

boots: Target

see the blue version of this outfit HERE

Greta's Christmas Program

knit vest: Maurices...old

top: JCrew

t-shirt scarf: made by me

ring: Target

cargo skinnies: VF Outlet

flats: Famous Brands Shoes

Attended a 4 year olds birthday party, Happy Bday Zoe!

ruffle cardi: Target... old

cotton dress: thrifted, it's like I'm wearing pj's

scarf: gift from friend (scarf wrapping tutorial bottom of post)

ring: Silpada

bracelet: Claires

leggings: Target

boots: Target

Church

tunic: thrifted

scarf: Henkel creek

(I made into an infinity scarf,

by just attaching 2 safety pins to the ends.)

...worn Here differently

wood ring: Target, my favorite $3 ring

bracelet: Francesca's

cords: Maurices Brand, Maurices

mules: Born, Von Maur... old

I don't remember what I did this day?

cardi: VF Outlet

top: H&M

gray felt mum necklace: Dear Nicole , etsy

jeggings: Christopher Straub, Maurices

gray lug boots: Target

***

For more fashion inspiration see Lindsey...

shop DEAR NICOLE

go here for my Scarf Tutorials

and Here for my last weeks WIWW post

The Scarf: 101

2011-12-13T01:22:00.007-06:00

I've had quite a few requests for a scarf tutorial...

If you ask? ... this momma delivers.

First, I must tell you I don't know the "appropriate or proper" names for my "wrapping scarf skill-z."... But, I did try to be very thorough... with lots of pictures...

I enlisted the very beautiful, Greta... or as I like to call her ... my first born.

Let's start with the EASIEST...

done.

SECOND TECHNIQUE...

THIRD TECHNIQUE... and MY FAVORITE.

... and how I wear my scarf most of the time.

step1. Notice how one side is considerably longer than the other.

step2. wrap the longer side around your neck

step3. you can leave it like this if you'd like.

here's a couple of my wiww pics of me doing just that:

... and adding a Dear Nicole flower pin, of course!

...or continue with the next step...

4. tie ends in one knot

5. smile your done.

I have lots of pictures of me wearing my scarves this particular way...

here's a small sample...

umm... and again with a Dear Nicole pin...

Yep, I even accessorize ... my accessories.

It's a syndrome.

Have a great day.

Ode to the Tree Skirt.

2011-12-12T00:21:00.000-06:00

I cherish this tradition... it's my absolute favorite... I highly recommend you do it...

Really. I. Insist!

It's okay if you missed the first couple years of their sweet little "piggies" ... better late than never. You won't regret it.

Speaking of little piggies... check out Maisie's footprints back in 2002... she wasn't even a month old yet... precious, I know. {smile}

Okay... let's continue... (before my uterus aches)

***

Supplies you'll need:

1. tree skirt

NOTE: I suggest a drop cloth or even a bed sheet. My skirt is made from felt... so it's super hard to write on... and it doesn't soak up the paint very well... but that's what I had available in the small town we were living in 11 years ago. I remember picking it up at ALCO (a farm supply store)... shortly after Greta was born ...ahhh the memories.

If you wanna get "all fancy"

...and actually use fabric... by all means, do so.

{smile}

2. Scissors

Cut into a circle.

(I had my grandma sew the plaid trim...

I always thought pom pom would be great for it too.)

3. acrylic paint

I used the obvious red and green Christmas colors

4. Sharpie

...to document the year and their names

***

Steps to your personal Christmas tree skirt:

Paint...

(yes, I'm in my jammie pants)

place on skirt

Document

DONE!

I like to make sure the tree is set back on the skirt... so you can see the footprints even after the presents are piled on.

...just like so. Wah... la!

***

There are lots of ways you can incorporate this fun tradition into the holiday season...

*I recently did a rendition of this skirt at Sunday school... it resides under the children's Christmas tree ... adorned with handmade ornaments... it's something they can add to each year. And they are so proud of it... love that. (we used handprints instead of footprints)

* You can do this with your grandkids if you don't have children at home. My kids love to see how much their feet grow each year.

* Fun for teachers to do with their students at school.

... you get the point {smile}...

You can see my skirt in year's past...

HERE and HERE.

linked here...

Nail Review: Shellac Magic.

2011-12-10T04:27:00.002-06:00

THIS

A MATCH MADE IN HEAVEN.

***

Remember my obsession with "confetti nails"... back in July? ... if not, click HERE . It all started with this pinterest image...

Hello my pretties... (ummm... yes I'm still inlove with them).

So, in honor of the holiday spirit, Margie, my nail tech and friend, was telling me about this new glitter technique she's been using in combination with the shellac...

Glitter you say?... why, yes. Yes, I'm on board.

She basically used the same technique as my "confetti" nails... EXCEPT ... instead of applying the glitter at the tip of the nail... it was applied and smeared at the cuticle.

The combination of glitter and shellac ...makes for a smooth top coat. It literally looks like the glitter was mixed in with the gel... and it wasn't... that's the genius of Shellac... ummm yes, I can sing Shellac's praises all day long. {wink}

Aren't they festive?

It makes me wish I had a Holiday party to attend... were I could sip on champagne, eat fancy finger foods, and dance the night away...

Oh, and wear something "Mad Men-ish"... as long as I'm dreamin'.

Puppy Love.

2011-12-09T03:53:00.003-06:00

phone pics ... compliments of Greta...

my favorite puppy pic's yet.

Stocking Up.

2011-12-08T05:12:00.001-06:00

We've been busy stocking the shop for the holidays ... and I finally got my butt in gear and made some new goodies... the necklace section was gettin' sparse... sorry.

So, I know I'm bias here... ahemmm... but I'm totally in love with this gray rosette necklace... the colors of the bloom are fantastic. I should of made 2 ... I've been dying to wear it.

... I also made more of my popular pieces...

... including black rosettes necklaces...

... that seem to fly off the shelf... because of course, black goes with everything right? ... it's been said, so I hear... we look skinnier in black... ummm... even if it's a necklace... pinky swear...

okay... I can't swear on that...

But I can pinky swear that we have FAST SHIPPING. All of our products are made to ship out the same day... or next day... so if you are Christmas shopping... there IS still time.

***

More news on the home front... Peanut is home again from her 2nd round of chemo...much earlier than anticipated... totally threw everyone for a loop... the doctors expected her to take longer to recover this time around ... well, she recovered... faster and stronger.

GOD BLESS HER.

3rd round will begin at the end of next week... more than likely that means she'll be there for Christmas... total bummer... but it seems silly to complain... considering she's a rock star.

And I'm sure Santa will find her Christmas morning. {wink}

WIWW.

2011-12-07T00:03:00.002-06:00

Hello friends... another week of WIWW...

shopping for xmas (and I'm officially done!)

top: Marshalls (also worn here)

that I wore inside-out all day... and in these pictures...

...didn't notice till I took it off that night. LOL

under tee: Target

birdie necklace: World Market

ring: Target, clearance

jeggings: Christopher Straub, Maurices

boots: Target

church

navy pin stripe jacket: thrifted

navy top: Old Navy

scarf: Old Navy

bracelets: Fern Hill Antiques

ring: Dear Nicole

cords: Maurices Brand, Maurices

clogs/mules: Born, Von Maur...old

Maisie's school xmas program

(see the puppy in the bottom right corner of this shot)

top: Forever 21

necklace: made by me

zipper bracelet: gift from friend

jeans: Vigoss, Maurices

mules: Born, Von Maur... old

visiting peanut

top: JCrew Outlet

necklace: Dear Nicole

bronzite ring: Silpada

jeggings: Christopher Straub, Maurices

boots: Target

***

linked with the other fashionable ladies at...

shop DEAR NICOLE

my last weeks WIWW

***

Sweet Baby Jesus...

2011-12-06T03:40:00.001-06:00

I had to have him ... ahemm... wait...

Henry ... had to have him. {wink}

He makes me squeal ... when I walk into his room.

I got him on Etsy from Misfit Menagerie. An early Christmas gift... errrrrr... for me.

Sweet baby Jesus... there's a "girl" version.

... maybe Maisie needs an early Christmas gift too?

Christmas at our Home.

2011-12-05T00:28:00.008-06:00

(photo heavy post)

Living Room:

(no tree yet)

(man I love my $40 chalkboard find)

Dining Room:

Dear Nicole banner...

Entry:

"Jolly Old Saint Nicholas" ...

... our favorite Christmas carol...

(this set up is much prettier at night...

when everything sparkles and light shines

thru the house windows... )

...well... you'll just have to trust me. LOL

Kitchen:

***

Advent Calendar Tutorial HERE

My home was in the Christmas House Walk last year... go HERE to see it.

***

...click here.