Richmond Real Estate Mom

New & Bright for Spring

2012-02-25T19:49:00.000-05:00

Buy this for spring! It is $8.80 and much more expensive looking! I am very impressed with the quality for less than $9. (Note...I purchased online so did have to pay shipping. I am not sure if they have it in store but if you call your local store with the item number they can look it up.)

I also found these bright blue jeans at Old Navy this week for $19. Mine had a slight flaw so I got an additional 10% off. Richmonders...the Willow Lawn Old Navy is sold out of a bunch of sizes.

Here's to spring! We had snow and an almost 80 degree day within one week. Crazy weather!

Snow.....

2012-02-21T14:49:00.000-05:00

We got the little bit of snow we were hoping for....

Menu Planner

2012-02-19T11:27:00.000-05:00

Michael broke out the deep fryer yesterday and he fried his first turkey! It was delicious and we didn't have to use the first extinguisher! Success! My mom, Michael parents and my sister and her family helped us devour it. My sister brought mashed potatoes made with Swiss cheese and I made Savory Green Beans to go with our Fried Turkey. Oh and I can't forget these Pretzel Bites with Cheese Sauce that I made as an appetizer. They were the best! I made some Cinnamon sugar ones as well and am going to make the vanilla glaze today as we sit inside and wait for the maybe snow! I plan to sneak some banana into that glaze...my Clyde is getting really, really picky!

The bird before....

Going in for the deep fry....

Finished product...

Here is this week's menu planner.

Sunday - Pork Tenderloin, Baked Beans, Corn (carryover's from previous week)
Monday - Mexican Black Bean Lasagne
Tuesday - Spiced Mini Burgers with Cucumber Relish
Wednesday - Casserole Queens Ziti Bake
Thursday - Chicken Ranch Homemade Pizza

We are hoping for some snow. We got a small taste last weekend....

Missing in Action!

2012-02-17T13:40:00.000-05:00

Phew! Where are the weeks going? Sorry for the lack of posts, I have been trying to manage everything (work, family, exercise, etc) and blogging has been low on the priority list.

Also, I ran out of photo storage on Blogger so I had to figure out another means....this is my first post using Flickr.
Here is what we have been up to....

Lots of Coloring...watercolor by Camille

Lots of Ice Cream Sandwich Eating...yes...Clyde is wearing a diaper only! It happens....frequently!

Lots of Baby Care giving.

I have been working my tail off...so today I splurged on this. It was on sale and I ended up getting an additional 15% off the sales price so the total was around $131. This is a big purchase for me but I have one other Kate Spade bag that Michael gave me for Christmas probably 5 or more years ago and I still use it. So hopefully this is a good investment. Plus you use a purse ever day so that like good jeans...I feel like you can spend a little more! I can't wait for it to arrive! (Sorry the picture quality is awful).

Happy Friday everyone! I started working on my menu planner today so stay tuned for that. Also, we are deep frying our first turkey this weekend with a fryer Michael got for Christmas! I will let you know how it goes.

Menu Planner

2012-02-05T09:24:00.000-05:00

Sorry for the lack of posts...I actually planned our menus last week but never posted. Work has been busy and I have had to prioritize a little. Here goes this week's menu planner.

This week I was trying to use up some of the items already in my pantry...BBQ sauce, Bertolli Alfredo Sauce and Italian Sausage. I am going to post last night's meal because it was tasty.

Saturday - Very Good Gouda Turkey Burgers

Superbowl Sunday - Meatball Subs (we are winging this - no recipe), french fries, layered spicy black bean dip is our app.

Monday - Chicken Noodle Casserole

Tuesday - White Bean Tortellini Soup with salad and bread

Wednesday - Chicken Cordon Blue Alfredo, Risotto, Green Beans

Thursday - Pork Tender"lean" BBQ, Baked Beans, Corn

Friday - Shell Pasta with Sausage & Greens

Menu Planner

2012-01-21T16:41:00.000-05:00

It is a cold and rainy weekend in Richmond. We did some grocery shopping today and I am all set for the week.

Saturday - Slow Cooker German Short Ribs, Mashed Red Potatoes, Spinach

Sunday - Chicken Parmesan Burgers, French Fries

Monday - Minestrone Soup (from my freezer), Grilled Cheese

Tuesday - Homemade Pizza

Wednesday - Pasta Carbonara, Salad, Bread

Thursday - Tilapia Piccata, Wild Rice, Green Beans

Friday - Stove Top Stuffed Pork Chops, Baked Apples

I have a bunch of projects that I want to complete but I am not finding the time. Hopefully soon!

Finally....menu planner

2012-01-17T20:27:00.000-05:00

Y'all! As my mom would say I have been busier than a one armed paper-hanger. Work is picking up and today I worked out my first contract of the year as a buyer's agent! Woohoo!

Here is this week's menu planner.....

Tuesday - Chili (from the freezer), Salad & Bread
Wednesday - Dinner at my Grandmother's
Thursday - Chicken Fajitas
Friday - Mexican Lasagna

I did find time for another trip to the Jcrew Warehouse sale. I found two cardigans and two shirts for Camille...all $6 each. And two pairs of flip flops, a sweater and some spring/summer sandals. I really need to stay away but there is great stuff to be found there.

I also created a website that focuses solely on real estate....check that out here. I will keep this blog because I really enjoy sharing my projects, menus and bargains.

Weekend Recap & Menu Planner

2012-01-08T20:49:00.000-05:00

It was a fun weekend that started off on Friday with Clyde's first haircut. Shame on me for not getting a picture. I took him to of all places, Sport Clips because we were on a schedule and had to meet my grandmother for an early lunch before getting Camille from school. Sport Clips was the only place open in the vicinity of our errands. It was hilarious to see little Clyde sitting amongst the football pendants and big screens covered in sports coverage. He loved it! He hopped right into the chair and sat so still. Success!

Saturday morning started off with a trip to the Jcrew Warehouse sale. It opened at 8 am and my sister and I were there a few minutes after. I must confess that I had been up since 6 am scared I may oversleep and not get first dips on $3 bathing suits. I found quite a few cute things (including three $3 bathings suits) and I want to go back. There was no possible way to go through everything and they are putting new stuff out daily.

Today, I put my advice to good use and did some major cleaning. Two kids rooms, one linen closet and one bathroom closet later, I have 3 bags for goodwill and I filled up my huge Jcrew Warehouse sale trashbag with trash! Phew! I feel better but have more to go through...on tap this week....my desk and real estate files from last year.

Here is this week's menu planer...Enjoy!

Sunday - Minestrone Soup & Prociutto Arugula Panini (from BHG - recipes below)

Monday - Zucchini Wrapped Pork, Red Potatoes, Sauteed Zucchini

Tuesday - Slow Cooker Whole Chicken, Wild Rice, Asparagus

Wednesday- Brown Butter Gnocchi

Thursday - Light King Ranch Casserole (using leftover from Slow Cooker Chicken)

Minestrone Soup
1 large onion, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 ribs celery, diced (1/2 cup)
peeled and diced
1 medium zucchini (about 8 ounces), diced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth or low-sodium chicken broth (48 ounces)
1 28-ounce cans no-salt-added diced tomatoes
1 14.5-ounce can no-salt-added crushed tomatoes
1 15-ounce can low-sodium cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup whole grain elbow pasta
1/3 cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves

1. In a large soup pot over medium-high heat cook and stir onion in hot oil for 4 minutes or until translucent. Add garlic; cook for 30 seconds. Add celery and carrot. Cook and stir for 5 minutes, until vegetables begin to soften. Add zucchini, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
2. Add the broth and the diced and crushed tomatoes. Bring to boiling. Reduce heat to medium low. Simmer uncovered for 10 minutes. Add the beans and pasta. Cook for 10 to 15 minutes or until pasta and vegetables are tender. Top servings with cheese and parsley.
3. Make it vegetarian Use the vegetable broth option as directed.
4. For hearty appetites Serve with Prosciutto-Arugula Panini.
5. Make it gluten-free Use gluten-free broth and substitute 1/2 cup of uncooked rice for the pasta. Cook 5 minutes longer or until rice is tender.

Prosciutto-Arugula Panini
1 12 ounce whole wheat baguette or Italian bread (about 18 inches long)
3 tablespoons prepared basil pesto
8 thin slices prosciutto (3 oz.)
1 cup lightly packed arugula leaves, chopped
1/2 cupshredded part-skim mozzarella cheese (2 oz.)
Olive oil spray
1. Cut bread in half horizontally, then cut each half crosswise into 6 equal portions. Scoop out the soft center of the bread (freeze for making bread crumbs or discard). Spread cut sides of bread with pesto.
2. Divide prosciutto, arugula, and mozzarella among six bread bottom portions. Replace tops of bread. Lightly coat both sides of sandwiches with olive oil spray.
3. Heat a nonstick grill pan or panini press over medium-high heat. Cook three sandwiches at a time in hot pan, weighting sandwiches with a press or heavy skillet. Cook about 3 minutes per side, until cheese is melted and bread is toasted. Cut in half to serve.

Let's Get Organized

2012-01-04T15:07:00.000-05:00

I ran across these checklists on the Mimi and Meg Blog. I thought they were a good starting point for getting organized in 2012. If you are thinking of putting your house on the market, these lists can help you get off on the right foot. Buyers will look in your closets, drawers and cabinets. And if you are looking for an agent, give me a call. I would love to work with you and offer complimentary staging services for all my sellers.

Source

If you are staying put for a while, it can't hurt to get organized. I need to do quite a few things on these lists. You should see my linen closets...yikes!

Happy New Year!

2012-01-02T15:22:00.000-05:00

Happy 2012! We are almost back in a groove over here. Michael has been home with us since Christmas Eve Eve and he will return to work tomorrow and the kids will go back to school. I am not going lie.... this break may have been one day too long.

However, I did start the New Year off with a bang. Yesterday, I worked out an offer on my listing in Chester. Woohoo! Cheers to many more real estate transactions in 2012.

We also managed to get out and about some over the break. My awesome mom had Camille & Clyde for a sleepover on New Year's Eve so we went to dinner at my friend Katy's parents house. It was tons of fun and she had the cutest table display.

Black Eyed Pea & Stewed Tomatoes Favor

Here is this first menu planner of 2012.....

Monday - Michael's Chili
Tuesday - Mexican Pizza (Michael gave me a pizza stone for Christmas so we have been experimenting with different recipes. The pizza stone really makes a huge difference in the crust. As for the linked recipe...I leave out the cinnamon and add chopped jalapenos to the black bean mixture.)
Wednesday - Girls Night out
Thursday - Italian Sausage Pasta (This is as easy as it sounds...Italian sausage cooked and mixed into store bought sauce and served over pasta.)
Friday - Chicken Enchiladas (we are winging this and I don't have a recipe)

2012....a great year to buy or sell a house!

2011-12-30T12:15:00.000-05:00

Contact me if I can help! Happy New Year!

Christmas in Review

2011-12-27T10:11:00.000-05:00

Baking Cookies for Santa....check out Clyde's apron!

Watching Mimi ride the train

Tinsel hides with Baby Jesus

Christmas Eve

Note to Santa

Christmas Dinner Tablesetting

Santa brought clothes for Mimi

Loading up toys from Santa

And a good time was had by all. Hope you all had a very Merry Christmas!

Christmas Card Outtakes!

2011-12-21T07:00:00.006-05:00

It can be hard to capture that perfect moment for the Christmas card...here are some of the attempts....

I almost went with this one.....it is not too bad.

Believe me there were worse ones...eyes closed....mouths open. But I couldn't do it, I couldn't post for the world (or the 10 people that read this blog) to see.

Christmas Cards in Review 2011

2011-12-20T09:14:00.000-05:00

Last year, I did a post with all of our Christmas Card pictures from years past. Here's a quick review and our card picture from this year.

2005 (Not sure what we did in 2004, 2006)

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

It only took two different photo shoots to get this picture and Camille is barely cracking a smile and Clyde calls this look "sad Clyde." Tomorrow I will post some outtakes!

Weekend Recap & Menu Planner

2011-12-18T15:55:00.000-05:00

We hosted a dinner party on Friday night. It was fun and I actually used all my wedding gifts from 7.5 years ago!

We are almost ready for Christmas! I can't believe it is a week away....

Here is this week's menu planner....

Sunday - French Onion Beef Stew and Salad

Monday - Taco Salad, Beans & Rice

Tuesday - Chicken Broccoli Casserole

Wednesday - Chicken Quesadilla, Beans & Rice

Thursday - Turkey Burgers & Fries

Christmas Decorating Part 4 - Wreath Making

2011-12-15T07:00:00.002-05:00

Image found here

I wanted to spruce up my wreath this year. I found the above image on pinterest.com and used it for inspiration. I had all the ribbon & balls from previous Christmases. I bought gold sticks and leaves from Ben Franklin.

And for our back door, I saw this cute wreath on Emily A .Clark's blog. I had some leftover fabric that didn't work out for Camille's Christmas pajamas.

Photo credit: Emily A Clark

So I used it to make this.....

Not sure I am totally in love but it will do! (Excuse the door...I want to paint it or get a new door or something!)

PS....I did make the pajamas for Camille just with new fleece fabric. She hasn't worn them except to pose for this picture. She claims they are itchy! I gave up on Clyde's and shipped the fabric out for them to be made.

PPS...She was the pajama designer and wanted a red nightgown with a Santa on the front. We went for Santa buttons.

Christmas Decorating Part 3 - Card Tree

2011-12-14T07:00:00.001-05:00

Image found here.

I love sending and receiving Christmas cards. I saw this cute image on Pinterest.com and decided to make a version of my own.

Can't wait to keep adding to it as we get more cards.

Christmas Decorating Part 2

2011-12-13T07:00:00.001-05:00

Sign & garland are from the Dollar Tree, Santa on the left was $1 from the Dollar Tree last year, Angel was a Christmas gift from my friend Ashley, Red Christmas ball hand-me-down from my mom.

Holiday treats cookie jar given to us by my mother-in-law.

Our elf, Tinsel has made his way back this year.

Weekend Recap and Menu Planner

2011-12-12T13:13:00.000-05:00

We had a great weekend. Yesterday, we spent the day in Williamsburg at Christmastown with Michael's parents, sister, husband and kids. We had lunch with Santa, watched a Sesame Street Christmas, drank hot toddies in Ireland and saw lights all over. It was tons of fun minus one meltdown by Clyde at the very end. My camera battery died early in the day. Boo for poor planning! But here are some shots I managed to get....

All bundled up and ready to go!

Waiting for Santa

This is about as close as we got to Santa. Camille did manage to request a car for Christmas.

Listening to Santa tell the Night Before Christmas

Christmas Card attempt. So hard with little ones.

We are going for easy meals this week.....

Monday - Chicken Fajitas

Tuesday - Baked Spaghetti

Wednesday - Taco Casserole

Christmas Decorating Part 1

2011-12-10T15:11:00.000-05:00

Found this train at Diversity Thrift for $10. Clyde was with me and spotted it. There was really no way to leave without the train. Bonus....all the pieces were there and it works!

Also, found the Christmas trees at Diversity Thrift for $1 a piece. There are 7 of them.

These Christmas balls were my grandmother's (dad's mom) and I believe she handmade a lot of them.

Christmas bells given to us by my grandmother (mom's mom). One for Michael & I's first Christmas together, and also for Camille & Clyde's first Christmases.

Mini Bench Complete!

2011-12-07T07:00:00.002-05:00

Camille and I found this cute little bench at an estate sale for $18 back in October. It is the perfect size to sit next to our back door and put on shoes or set my purse. It needed some work. Here is the before.

I first pulled off the cushions and all previous batting etc.

I washed the chair with white vinegar and water then lightly sanded.

We decided to add a piece of wood on the bottom for better support. Michael helped me with this part. Here he is measuring and cutting to fit.

I spray painted with Rust-Oleum Ultra Coverage. It worked well.

Here is the bench with the board screwed down. Michael helped with that part as well.

We had foam left over from our headboard project so I used that to make the bottom extra cushy!

I then covered the foam with batting.

Then I stapled the batting to the chair and cut off the excess.

I then draped the fabric over the batting and started stapling.

The corners were a challenge and I am going to have to go back and repair one of them.

After I finished stapling, I cut the excess fabric.

Here it is complete without the pillow. I forgot to take pictures of that process but I decided to go with a 14" x 28" pillow on the back instead of a cushion tied to the back. I got the pillow form for 50% off a Joanns and it was easy to make.

Voila!

Not to bad for my first try at reupholstering! It came along way from this.....

I forgot to mention there was some gold detailing around some of the spindles that I really liked but got covered up with the spray paint. So I used some of my favorite Martha Stewart Gold Satin Metallic Paint and carefully painted the spindles. I have definitely gotten my $6 out of that bottle.

New Mantle Decor!???????

2011-12-06T07:00:00.014-05:00

Here is a picture of my living room mantle before. I found the old vases at Stein Mart at least 5 years ago and my sister, Anne Hunter, helped me arrange the peacock feathers. I have been tired of the look for a while.

I found the vases in the below picture at Marshalls on clearance for $10 a piece. I really like them better and then just added a few of the peacock feathers. My mom says she is not in love with the look. So now I am doubting myself.

Any opinions out there? Should I go back to the old and return the new? I thought of removing the peacock feathers in the new but it seemed so bare. Maybe I could put something else in the vase? It is basically the same idea as before but with different style vases so does it even look that different???

Felt Christmas Trees

2011-12-05T07:00:00.001-05:00

I ran across this picture in the Garnet Hill catalog last month, I pulled it out and decided that Camille and I could easily make these! Piece of cake. Well it wasn't quite as easy as I thought...so we made 1 and the other two tree forms went back to the store.

While making the tree, I thought this is the worst thing I have ever made but now I actually think it turned out kinds cute.

I put it on Clyde's dresser and added a little felt garland to one of his pictures.

Weekend Recap & Menu Planner

2011-12-04T09:00:00.001-05:00

My mom, niece Vail, Camille, Clyde and I went to the Christmas Parade this weekend. It was a first for Camille and Clyde and I hadn't been since I was a child. It was a gorgeous day for a parade.

Here is this week's menu planner....

Sunday - Kate's Italian Sausage Casserole (carryover from last week)

Monday - Cheesy Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole

Tuesday - Quick Sausage, White Bean & Spinach Stew, Bread & Salad

Wednesday - Night off...Pizza

Thursday - French Dip Sandwiches, French Fries

I have been working on quite a few projects...more posts coming this week. Here is a sneak peak of one project that I hope to complete soon.

Stay tuned!

Menu Planner

2011-11-28T15:49:00.000-05:00

Another busy weekend that included a trip to Charlottesville to see the Wahoos play the Hokies. Sad day for the Wahoos but nice to get away with Michael without C & C. Thank you, thank you to Michael's parents for watching them!

I am busy today preparing for an agent open house at my cute listing in Chester. More details here.

Here is this week's menu planner....

Monday....Chicken Piccata, Rice, Asaparagus
Tuesday....Casserole Queens Not Your Average Tamale Pie
Wednesday....Kickin Mini Meatloafs, Corn
Thursday....Kate's Italian Sausage Casserole
Friday....Chicken Rollatini, Salad, Bread

We decorated for Christmas yesterday. I have some finishing touches to do and then I will be back with pictures. Here are our decorations for last year. 1/ 2 / 3/ 4/ 5

Bead Board Transformation

2011-11-22T12:00:00.003-05:00

My friend, Lindsey, emailed me last week asking for tips on painting and updating furniture. She shared with me some before and after pictures of her kitchen. I just love what she has done. Her husband, Chris installed the bead board under the bar and add crown molding both of which are great updates that will certainly help their re-sale value when the time comes. She is lucky to have such a handy husband!
Here are Lindsey's before pictures.....

And now the afters....

Doesn't it look great!? Thanks to Lindsey for sharing her pictures. Great updating!

If you have some before/after pictures of projects that you worked on in your home and would like to share. Send them to me at astoakley@gmail.com.

Menu Planner

2011-11-21T14:21:00.000-05:00

Phew! I am behind this week. Had a great open house yesterday in North Oaks. Lots of potential buyers out and about.

I just got to the grocery store this morning and here is what is cooking this week.

Monday - Dinner out for my mom's birthday

Tuesday - Tacos with Ground Chicken

Wednesday - Roasted Chicken and White Bean Pizza

Thursday - Turkey Day! I am making Squash Casserole, Italian Sausage Stuffing & Chocolate-Filled Sweet Potato Cupcakes for my two Thanksgiving feasts.

Oh and I also learned that it a turkey wattle not a gizzard. See this post.

Gobble Gobble!

2011-11-17T07:00:00.006-05:00

We are getting turkey crazy over here! We have made quite a few crafts involving that Thanksgiving bird!

We were running low on supplies, when we made these hand print turkeys. Only red and orange paint and no construction paper. We used a cardboard box for the body and red felt for the gizzard. (Side note...gizzard has become the most fun word around here!)

This was my inspiration photo for the pine cone turkey. Everyone in the family would write what they are thankful for on each feather.

My sweet Camille is of course thankful for Mimi!

Camille kissing her very loved Mimi! She is the best Mom ever to that 10 inch stuffed elephant. And yes...Mimi is wearing a strapless dress and beaded necklace in the picture.

Cougar even got in on the action and she is most thankful for cat food and sleeping on Camille's bed. Yes...she also loves our bed....she gets around! ;)

More Master Bedroom Updates

2011-11-15T14:29:00.000-05:00

I have made a couple updates to our master bedroom.

I received the dressing table stool in this post for free from a family friend but I just couldn't figure out how to make it work. I wonder if I could do something with it now that I have my sewing machine but regardless I found the below stool at Diversity Thrift and snatched it up for $15.

I used the same yellow Garden Ridge fabric from my bedroom pillow to cover the top.

For the paint, I sanded the entire stool, then painted one thin coat of Martha Stewart Living Metallic Paint in Vintage Gold. (I also used this on Camille's Tutu table). After drying, I took sandpaper and gently went over the painted stool.

I also found some great fabric on clearance at Garden Ridge...2 yards for $3! I really liked it better than the other two I put on the bench at the end of our bed. Read about those two here and here. It is sorta comical but the fabric from Garden Ridge is so cheap...I can change it out every month or two. ;) I used some of the extra fabric to make a pillow using the previous pillow form.

And my Love of Jesus Thrift find, made its way to the top of my dresser.

So we have come along way from this before picture when we moved in.....

Well I guess some things don't change, Cougar still loves sleeping on our bed and I didn't bother moving her when I took this new picture. I had forgotten she was in my before shot from 2+ years ago as well!

Weekend Recap & Menu Planner

2011-11-13T09:42:00.000-05:00

New listing....just hit the market on Friday. Cute 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath house in the North Oaks subdivision in Chester.

More pictures and details can be found here.

Here is this week's menu planner. I am posting last nights dinner because it was delicious! I also checked out Southern Living Complete Quick and Easy from the Library and three of our meals this week are from that book.

Saturday - Chicken Parmesan Burgers, Steak Fries

Sunday - Chicken Cannelloni with Roasted Red Bell Pepper Sauce from Southern Living

Monday - Marinated London Broil from Southern Living, Red Potatoes in Onion Soup Mix, Asparagus

Tuesday - Chicken Black Bean Salad from Southern Living (Can't find a link for this...if it is good, I will post the recipe).

Wednesday - Dinner & Shopping for Angel Tree with my mom and sisters.

Thursday - Not sure yet....

Bar Keepers Friend

2011-11-08T08:50:00.001-05:00

After reading a post on Richmond Thrifter, I was inspired to try Bar Keepers Friend on my bedroom dresser pulls. A while ago, I tried Brasso on some pulls in my living room and I thought it worked pretty well. The bedroom dressers were given to us by Michael's grandmother and I have been trying to think of a solution for the pulls, should I paint them or just get new ones? Well it wasn't an easy task but Bar Keepers Friend shined them right up. I have only done three so far (18 more to go!) and you can see by the clock that it took me about an hour and a half. (Side note...I was interrupted probably 20 times in that hour and a half.) I may get the liquid cleaners because it seems easier. I made a paste with the powder and used a toothbrush. The key may be to have a wet surface and I kept getting the toothbrush wet. I also considered soaking the pulls in a Bar Keepers Friend liquid to see if that would remove some of the tarnish first before I started working with the toothbrush. I did a quick google search, and I also read that soaking brass in two parts white vinegar and one part hydrogen peroxide would remove tarnish. So I may try it!

I am really happy with the results. And the can says you can use it on stainless steel and ceramic cook tops, tile and grout. So I may have some other items to try to shine up. I found it on the bottom shelf in the grocery store and it was cheap!

Menu Planner & Weekend Recap

2011-11-06T14:40:00.000-05:00

It was a low key weekend with lots of laundry, cleaning, yard work, straightening etc. Don't be jealous! Here are a couple shots of C & C in the leaves and a cute felt turkey Camille and I created out of felt shapes and feathers.

I checked out a few cookbooks from the library. Four out of five meals this week are from these books....The Casserole Queens Cookbook, Skinny Bitch:Ultimate Everyday Cookbook, and Good Housekeeping Cookbook: 1,275 Recipes from America's Favorite Test Kitchen.

Sunday - Casserole Queens Deep Dish Pizza Chicago Style

Monday - Casserole Queens Halibut Enchiladas with Salsa Verde

Tuesday - Good Housekeeping Ham Steak with Creamy Cheese Grits

Wednesday - Rachel Ray Crisp Gnocchi Pesto with Tomatoes and Goat Cheese

Thursday - Skinny Bitch Black Bean & Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese with Tomato & Avocado

Enjoy!

Love of Jesus Thift

2011-11-04T12:00:00.010-04:00

On the same venture to Family Thrift, my mom and I also checked out For the Love of Jesus Thrift. I had heard about it on other blogs but needed to check the place out for myself.
Here what I found. I spent about $20.

And now to discuss the items in more detail....

First up, I found another frame just like the ones that I re-matted with my Diversity Thrift place mats. I really want to do a grouping of four of these frames since I have three more place mats. So now I just need to find one more frame. There must be one out there. Let me know if you come across it.

$8 Frame from Love of Jesus Thift.

Free Frame from Family Friend

After with Diversity Thift $50 Placemats.

Next up the elephant.....I have seen elephant tables all over the Internet, Pinterest.com etc. And to continue with our elephant theme in Camille's room, I had to get this for $6. I am going to spray paint it, I just need to decide on the color.

There was something about the shape and design of this dish that I really loved. So for $3, it had to be mine.

And I couldn't resist the cow creamer for $2. I think it will be great on my kitchen counter.

The green pot is for the Amaryllis, I am planting and hoping for a bloom around Christmas. And I bought 3 little bowls for 10 cents each for my kids meals.

I will be back there...there is lot of stuff to look at. My mom got some dishes that she feels are the perfect size for lunch. ;) All kidding aside, she got 12 pretty off-white plates in great condition for $5.

$4.98 Necklaces!

2011-11-03T14:15:00.001-04:00

My mom and I were out "thrifting" this morning while Camille & Clyde were at school. We stopped at the Family Thrift Store on Midlothian Turnpike and I found two necklaces for $4.98 each. I am really excited about them.

First up...this wooden bead necklace.

My necklace from Family Thift $4.98

It reminds me of some that I have seen on etsy.com that are still affordable but more that my $4.98.

Vintage Orange Wooden Necklace

Wooden Necklace 2

I also found this multi-strand bead necklace. I really liked the color combination and the clasp. Not bad for $4.98.

And speaking of jewelry, I am really liking the new line from Kayce Hughes. Check it out here.

My mom and I also hit up Love of Jesus Thift Store. Check back tomorrow for what we found there.

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T08:03:00.000-04:00

We are all ready for Halloween around here. We had a family pumpkin carving contest yesterday...Michael and Clyde vs. Alyson and Camille. We used the same stencils we used last year. I would say Michael and Clyde are the clear winners with their pirate pumpkin! Ours is a kitty cat...it is hard to tell.

Excuse the leaves...Guess I should get to those before the trick or treaters come! ;)

2011-10-30T17:56:00.000-04:00

Another busy weekend. Saturday morning, I was up early for my HandsOn Day service project with Target at Southside Child Development Center. We had an amazing group of close to 100 Target employees who came out in the cold and rain to beautify and make improvements to the center. We made a sandbox cover, landscaped and spread playground mulch in addition to sanitizing the classrooms, washing windows and repairing and hanging new shelving. It was a great morning!

Later that night, Michael and I had our 15 year high school reunion...for those that don't know, we are high school sweethearts. :) My friend, Melissa and I, planned the event which was held at Europa. It was lots of fun catching up with everyone.

Here I am with Melissa.

I am feeling tired today. ;) I have planned our menu but haven't done my grocery shopping yet. Tonight, Michael is making italian sausage spaghetti with ingredients we have on hand.

Here goes....

Monday - Happy Halloween!

Tuesday - Chicken Pot Roast with Sassy Salsa

Wednesday - Meatball Sub with French Fries & Salad

Thursday - Skinny Chicken Enchiladas

Friday - Chicken Pizza with Homemade Pizza Dough

Toddler Activity Exchange

2011-10-28T07:00:00.002-04:00

Last week, I attended a toddler activity exchange organized by my friend, Kristen, and based on the exchange found in this post. It was lots of fun and I came home with 19 new activities for Camille & Clyde.

We had to make 21 kits and I decided on an i-spy kit. Well after sewing about 14 of these pillow like bags, I have to say I was sorta over it and keep having to give myself pep talks to complete. Here is a quick review of my project....

I don't have a good picture of this but I sewed clear plastic to this fabric square. Then attached the two fabric pieces like I would a pillow leaving a little opening to put in the rice.

These items went in the ispy bag and then I printed this picture and included it with each kit.

Finished Product

All 21! Finally done. ;)

It was a fun experience getting to know some new moms. And we came home with some great kits that Camille and Clyde have really enjoyed playing with.

Apple Pie!

2011-10-26T20:17:00.000-04:00

We did it! After our trip to the apple orchard last Saturday, Camille and I decided we would make an apple pie. It was my first attempt at a pie and I think it turned out fabulous. I used Mark Bittman's apple pie recipe from How to Cook Everything. I cheated and used a store bought pie crust.

Here is our experience in pictures....

Weekend Recap & Menu Planner

2011-10-23T09:18:00.001-04:00

Phew! Where did Saturday go? Michael left for Blackburg to see the Hokies play at 8 am yesterday and Camille, Clyde and I hopped in the car shortly after and dined on donut at Martins, then headed to Carter Mountain Orchard in Charlottesville. I thought a few times..."am I completely crazy to take a 2 and 4 year old on a road trip to an apple orchard by myself?". I guess not because it went really well. We had a lot of fun with C & C being very well behaved. We went on a hayride, picked a bunch of pink lady apples and ate apple donuts (yes...our 2nd donuts of the day...no judging).

We made it home in time for Clyde to get a quick nap, then we were off to my nephew, Winters, 3rd Birthday. More sugar was in store with cupcakes and a pinata!

The birthday boy in his fireman costume which he wore the whole time!

Cute cupcakes with toppers from etsy.com

Yum! More sugar!

And now to the pinata that would not break!

Here it is...cute firetruck pinata!

Birthday boy takes the first shot!

Clyde gets in on the action.

Now after every other child swings at it 2 or 3 times, Kate tries to break it open.

No luck. Now tries Ross!

Finally...it starting to break and we pulled it open and candy fell! Yes...more sugar.

Today, we have trick or treating at my grandmother's retirement community. Maybe, I should re-name this post, Sugar Weekend! And I am taking a barre fitness class. This my 3rd one and I am really enjoying it.

Here is this week's menu planner....

Sunday - Steaks with Goat Cheese & Red Pepper Sauce, Asparagus, Twice Baked Potatoes

Monday - Family Night at C & C's school and then Slow Cooker Chicken Gumbo

Tuesday - Mom's night out

Wednesday - Soft Taco's with Pineapple Sauce (I am going to use leftover pork shoulder that I have in the freezer for this instead of the beef)

Thursday - Over Chicken Risotto

Oh and Camille and I are going to try to make apple pie this week. So I will let you know how that goes.

Thursdays Tips & Tricks!

2011-10-20T14:40:00.000-04:00

My friend, Ashley, recently asked me to post some of my favorite on-line retailers. But I was not sure I had enough to make a very full post. So I decided to post some of the deals and steals I have found lately.

CUTE KIDS CLIPS
We all love etsy.com and I discovered Crowe's Nest last spring. They have the cutest hair clips and so reasonable...most are under $4.

VINTAGE JEWELRY
I just discovered Silver Lining Decor on etsy.com. The owner is local to Richmond and has the neatest vintage jewelry. I purchased some great studs for $14 that I have been wearing almost daily.

CHRISTMAS ORNAMENTS
Christmas is just around the corner and I found these Dollar Tree ornaments this week.

BOYS POLO SHIRTS
I have been having a hard time find plain polo shirts for Clyde. After an extensive google search, I found these at jcpenney.com. Use code RMNAFF10 for an extra 10% off. They are good quality and I took them to Atlantic Embroidery Works for a $5 monogram. I purchased white, red, light blue and yellow. The yellow looks tan in the picture but it is a very soft yellow color. I am really happy with them.

LIBRARY
I don't know about you all but I get tired of reading the same books to my kids over and over again. We have gotten really into the library and go about every 2 weeks for new books and movies. Scholastic makes a bunch of great DVDs that have their book narrated by famous voices. I have also been searching on-line for decorating books then requesting the library hold them for me. They e-mail me when they are in and are waiting up front for me. So easy! I need to do this with cookbooks for some new recipe inspiration.

Alice turns 1!

2011-10-19T08:45:00.000-04:00

My sweet niece, Alice, turned one last week and her party was over the weekend. My sister, Anne Hunter, is an interior designer with a great sense of style so the decorations were too cute!

The theme was scarecrows. Here is the invitation that we received in the mail. Invite source is Libbie & Winston. She is local to Richmond but can ship anywhere.

On the big day, two scarecrows greeted us at the front door.

Here is the sleepy party girl watching her guest arrive. It is hard to nap with all the excitement of a first birthday bash.

The menu was chili & sour cream corn muffins with a few apps to get us started.

More scarcrows in the dining room.

Cake table display with rice krispie treats made in pumpkin shapes and chex mix in bags for favors.

Oh and I can't forget the scarecrow cake based on the invitiation. It was so cute and delicious.

The smash cake was a pumpkin!

Outside more harvest decorations....

Tables with mum centerpieces and burlap covers.

Scarecrow shirt is also from Libbie & Winston.

Here she goes...this girl is a good eater so there was no doubt she would like the cake!

My dad gave my niece, Vail, a Cozy Coupe when she turned 1. So my grandmother, continued the tradition and gave Camille & Alice coupes on their first birthdays. Here is Alice in hers...

Cute family all dressed in green!

Dirty Secret Revealed!

2011-10-18T07:00:00.002-04:00

I may or may not be a hoarder. I can't believe I am posting these pictures of our attic and to defend myself you never know what you may re-use one day so really I am saving us money with all this stuff. And don't get me wrong....I do go to goodwill and consign plenty of items but it is hard to part with everything. At one point, we had it so organized and it is still somewhat divided into sections but the stuffs keeps growing. Here is what is hiding in my attic....

The frame section.....

The linens & pillow section....

The housewares and party supply section....

More housewares & party supplies....

The furniture & lamp section....

The cord section....Michael may or may not be a hoarder of CORDS! Those plastic bins are full of cords. However, for some reason, we never seem to have the right cord for whatever project we are working on.

The Christmas Decoration and Items from the Past Section....

PS...I go up in the attic two to three times a week. Camille and Clyde are so good at climbing the ladder, I don't even worry anymore. Anyone else have an attic that looks like this?

PPS...If you are selling your house, don't let your attic look like this. An interested buyer may go up there at some point.

Menu Planner

2011-10-16T12:02:00.000-04:00

We had a great weekend! Friday, we went to dinner at our friend's Campbell & Jessica's house. Click here to see a tour of their home. They have since re-done the kitchen cabinets and it looks great! And get this....they re-used the granite. It came off in one piece and they put it back on top of the new cabinets! Awesome savings!

Saturday, we had my niece, Alice's first birthday party. My sister, Anne Hunter, did a fabulous job with the decorations. I will do a post this week on the party. It was really, really cute!

Oh also, if you have a second, please check out my Facebook page. Just click here and then click "like". It's easy! Oh and if want to recommend the page to your friends...that is okay too! :)

Here is this week's menu planner.

Sunday - Quick Fix Beef Bourguignon (carry over from last week)

Monday - Tortellini Spinach Bake in Creamy Lemon Sauce

Tuesday - Chicken Parmesan Skillet Pot Pie

Wednesday - Kickin' Chicken with Crunch, Black Beans & Rice, Corn

Thursday - Girl's night out! Pizza for Michael & the Kids

fright lights....

2011-10-11T12:00:00.007-04:00

I saw this how-to in Woman's Day. Click here for complete instructions.

I went to my favorite, Diversity Thrift, and purchased clear vases. Then using our 40% off coupon for Michael's, I purchased the Mod Podge. The orange tissue paper & foam brushes came from Walmart and we already had the construction paper. It was a fun project that Camille helped with....

Camille really wanted to add hair to hers and I think it turned out really cute!

On the same trip to Diversity Thrift, I found this cute pumpkin for $2. I think it looks great with my candy corns!

Prints for my Den

2011-10-10T21:05:00.000-04:00

I stumbled across these prints for free a while back and the frames looked good so I stored them up in my attic. (I will do a post on my attic soon).

Then I found these place mats for 50 cents a piece at Diversity Thrift. I am starting to sound like a broken record but I seriously love that place!

I had two single mats cut at Ben Franklin for about $16 a piece and voila...

Our trip to the Patch!

2011-10-10T14:35:00.000-04:00

We had a fun trip to the Ashland Berry Farm last week with my mom, sisters, nieces and nephew.

Now we are all decorated for Halloween. I used some fabric and ribbon already in my "collection" to decorate the pumpkins. Oh and we used Mod Podge to attach the ribbon to the striped ones.

Check back tomorrow for a post on some indoor Halloween decor.

Weekend Recap & Menu Planner

2011-10-09T14:56:00.000-04:00

Success! Camille & Clyde did awesome in the wedding this weekend. We only bribed them a few times with M&M's and one trip to Toys R Us! It was a gorgeous wedding with perfect weather!

I have to say we were a bit nervous after this scene at the rehearsal.

But they pulled it all together and did great! With the exception of Clyde being slightly vocal at the ceremony and telling everyone "I saw my mommy. She is right back there." Followed by him repeating the word "pillow" about 20 times. Oh and he knocked a fern over but still I consider it a success. Camille was a perfect angel....were you expecting anything less from her?

I was so proud of them!

We are resting up today....here is this week's menu planner.

Sunday - Taco's with Ground Chicken

Monday - Spicy Sausage Spaghetti Pie

Tuesday - Asian Braised Pork with Green Beans (Note: this calls for a Pork Shoulder or Boston Butt which can be very large. Today at Kroger the butcher offered to cut it in half for me when I asked if he has any smaller so you may want to try that). Recipe below.

Wednesday - White Bean Tortellini Soup

Thursday - Quick Fix Beef Bourguignon

Asian Braised Pork courtesy of Woman's Day
1/4 C soy sauce
1/2 tsp ground allspice
1/4 to 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper
1/4 C brown sugar
1-inch piece of ginger, thinly sliced
2 1/2 lb boneless pork shoulder, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
Hot cooked rice

In a slow cooker, combine the soy sauce, allspice, red pepper, brown sugar and ginger. Add the pork and toss to coat. Cover and cook until meat is tender, on low 7 to 8 hours or on high for 5 to 6 hours.

More on Camille's Room

2011-10-07T07:00:00.002-04:00

This was a super easy update. I found all three of these accessories in my attic. (Side note...I was thinking of photographing my attic so you can see all the junk I am saving up there for projects just like this!) I purchased some bright pink spray paint from Joann's for about $4 with coupon. But I think you can find for cheaper at Home Depot, Michaels or Walmart. And voila!

My mom gave me this frame out of her garage. (Side note...this may be where I get my hoarding tendency).

First, I washed it with soapy water. I think I used dish liquid and water but white vinegar and water would have probably been better.

Then painted it with 2 coats of Martha's Metallic Paint from Home Depot. Same paint that I used for Camille's table.

And the final product.....

It is wedding weekend, Camille & Clyde are in my cousin, Anne Taylor's wedding this weekend. Wish us luck!

State Fair!

2011-10-06T07:00:00.014-04:00

I have such fond memories of my dad taking my sisters and I to the State Fair each year. I have to say I got a little weepy thinking of him when I saw the rows of food vendors and games. We picked a beautiful day and hit the fair with my in-laws, sister-in-law and my niece and nephew. It was a great day! Here are some highlights.....

First up the farm animals....

Then on to the tractors....

Next on to the puppet show....

Yes, that says please do not swing on the rope and yes, that is Clyde swing on the rope most likely because I told him not to.

Then on to lunch....

At home, we always take our shirt off for pizza because the sauce stains everything! So Clyde wanted to do the same at the fair and I figured if you were going to take your shirt off while dining out the fair was probably the right place to do it.

Then after Camille asked me about 100 times if we could please do some rides, we finally made it to the midway!

Camille's first rollar coaster. She did not get the love of them from her mother because I am not sure I would have riden on that one!

Last up Ice Cream & Funnel Cake!

PS...If you haven't "liked" me on facebook yet, please click here to do so. I will also have more on Camille's room tomorrow.

Tutu Table

2011-10-05T12:00:00.008-04:00

As promised, here are some more pictures and instuctions on creating the tutu table in Camille's room.

First as a reminder, here is my inspiration photo.

Here is my table before....

I painted it with primer and then did one coat of Martha Living Metallic Paint from Home Depot. I used vintage gold and some of the white of the primer came through which I liked.

I purchased the tulle for less than $2 a yard from Hobby Lobby. I got 6 yards but I probably did not need that much. My table was 57" around and 25.5" down. I ended up layering the tulle 4 times. I then used gathering tape (not sure if that is the exact name) from the drapery section at Hancock Fabrics. This was used to make the tulle gather. I pinned it to the top.

Then ran it through my sewing machine.

Then pulled the strings to gather. I then attached it to my table using a staple gun.

I then used my glue gun to attach the satin ribbon.

And voila!

I will be back tomorrow with more updates on the the frame for Camille's artwork as well as some spray paint updates to accessories!

Camille's Room Updated

2011-10-04T12:00:00.000-04:00

This summer, we switched Camille & Clyde's room and at the time I focused a lot on Clyde's room because he was getting new furniture, bedding etc. Camille has a stuffed elephant named Mimi that is pretty much her life so she decided she wanted an elephant room. I searched fabric.com for elephants and ran across a few fabric options but ultimately went with this one. And you can see the panels that I made with my new sewing machine. They aren't perfect but aren't too bad for my first time. I decided to go with short panels so there would be more room on the floor for toys and baby doll cribs. It also saved me some money in fabric. I am happy with them.

I am so happy with her table skirt. I saw the image below on pinterest.com and decided it would be a perfect way to update Camille's bedside table. I will post more DIY pictures tomorrow so check back.

And there is Camille's artwork above her bed. My mom gave me the frame and it needed a little work. I will post tomorrow on the changes I made to the frame. I still plan on making a bedskirt. I bought the fabric below for it and I want to make her some pillows. Then I think we will be done with this room for a while.

Bridal Shower Centerpiece

2011-10-03T15:10:00.000-04:00

I was inspired to make a "wedding cake" for a shower centerpiece for my cousin from an image found here. You will find more specific instructions if you follow the link but here are some pictures of mine in the making.

I used cereal and cracker boxes to make the mold.

Then covered with dishtowels. I glue gunned ribbon around the cake. I tried not to get the glue on the actual dishtowels and just the ribbon. Then I glued scrapbooking letters onto the ribbon. It was pretty easy and definitely took less than 1 hour.

I added flowers for the shower and did you notice that the orange whisk is missing?! Yes, we went without that for the shower and I just found it under the couch. Oh well...that is what happens when you live with a 2 and 4 year old.

Weekend Recap & Menu Planner

2011-10-02T21:36:00.000-04:00

We had a busy but good weekend! The shower for my cousin, Anne Taylor, on Saturday was great. Here is the bride-to-be!

The bride-to-be, Anne Taylor, who is a nurse with a picture of my grandmother from nursing school.

It was chilly in Richmond this weekend and we kicked the heat on for the first time last night. Today, I purchased these great fleece blankets for all of our beds from Kmart, they are $14.99 in store and come in quite a few colors (I went with off-white). I am really happy with the quality for $14.99 so I had to share.

We have a busy week ahead with a trip to the pumpkin patch and possibly the state fair! Here is this week's menu planner...

Monday - Kickin' Mini Meatloafs with Black Bean & Rice and Canned Corn

Tuesday - Crispy Gnocchi Pesto with Tomato & Goat Cheese

Wednesday - Rotisserie Chicken Sloppy Joes & French Fries

Thursday - Pumpkin Patch & HandsOn Greater Richmond Committee Meeting = Pizza!

Oh and Camille and I were out and about this afternoon and stubbled upon an estate sale in the neighborhood. We found this kids size bench for $18! I couldn't be more excited about it...it is so cute in person and I can't wait to recover!

We also then hit up my favorite Diversity Thift and I found this lamp for $3! I have had good luck with lamps there...remember this one!

Facebook & Happy Weekend!

2011-09-30T08:12:00.000-04:00

Happy Weekend! My sisters, cousin and I are hosting a shower this weekend for another cousin, Anne Taylor, who is getting married next weekend! Anne Taylor babysits a ton for us and Camille & Clyde are in the wedding! They are excited. I just hope they do everything they are supposed to!

Anyway...I have a day of cleaning ahead of me and my sweet grandmother is coming over to polish silver! Love her because I hate doing it! I have been doing a lot of projects this week includings Camille's curtains which are up! Woohoo! I will be back next week with some posts!

In the meantime, I created a facebook page for my business and blog. Please click here to "like" me on Facebook. Thanks!

Camille, the budding artist

2011-09-29T07:00:00.001-04:00

Camille comes home from school with lots of artwork and she also creates at home. Check out our art supplies here and see the picture she painted for my birthday here.

Last week, she came home with this watercolor.

It reminded me of some of the images I have seen on Etsy and Pinterst.

Source

Today, I purchased an frame with double mat for $11 at Ben Franklin Crafts.

I think it looks great!

Bedroom Pillow

2011-09-27T20:34:00.000-04:00

So I have many projects on the list that involve my sewing machine but my first one is complete!

I finally used the fabric I purchased at Garden Ridge last February...3 yards for $5.99. I bought some trim at Hancock Fabrics for less than $4 and I cut the pillow form out of the pillow previously in this chair.

C&C had to get in on the action! They love a photo shoot.

I am happy with the results. On to the next project...curtains for Camille's room. They are cut and I just need to sew them now!

Menu Planner

2011-09-25T14:57:00.000-04:00

Here goes.....

Sunday - "Easy Dinner" Barber Chicken Breasts, Wild Rice, Green Bean

Monday - Super Simply, Super Spicy Mongolian Beef

Tuesday - Chicken Piccata, Parmesan Risotto, Salad

Wednesday - Macaroni Turkey Bake (with ground turkey instead of beef)

Thursday - Robin Miller's Parmesan-Sage Pork Loin

I used my sewing machine for the first time this weekend....stay tuned for a post on what I made!

Stoakley Garden Update

2011-09-23T07:00:00.000-04:00

Last April we planted a garden, you can read about it here and here. It was a fun project that is still providing veggies for us. Look what I pulled out of our garden this week.

We have one tomato plant and one pepper plant left.

I was at the greenhouse today and they had romaine, arugula, cabbage and cauliflower on sale....10 plants for $5. I read that those plants would survive cooler temperatures so I decided to try it. Here is our garden now.

We are all ready for fall around here.

I found these mums at the Dollar Tree! Woohoo!

This is embarassing....

2011-09-21T07:00:00.001-04:00

Last week, this is what my closet floor looked like.....

And Michael's was just as bad.....okay maybe mine was worse.

A quick trip to Target fixed the problem....

Phew! Much better. We can actually see our shoes when getting dressed in the morning.

Cookies!

2011-09-19T20:00:00.000-04:00

I have a sweet tooth so I am always on the look out for a good for you, low fat or low calorie cookie!

And I may have found it. Click here to see the recipe for Good for you! Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie from Cheeky Kitchen. The first time I made them I used all-purpose flour because I didn't have spelt flour. They turned out more like cookie balls and tasted great. I purchased spelt flour today from Ellwood Thompson's and made another batch. The picture below is from that batch. I thought they were just as good but tasted saltier. I would use less salt next time.

I plan to try these new recipes soon....Low Fat Pumpkin Bean Bars and Black Bean Brownies. I'll keep you posted.

Menu Planner

2011-09-18T18:55:00.000-04:00

Sunday - Donna Nash Chicken

Monday - Brown Butter Gnocchi with Spinach & Pine Nuts

Tuesday - Crock Pot Chicken Taco Chili

Wednesday - French Dip Sandwiches, French Fries

Thursday - Chipolte Soft Tacos

Easy Artwork

2011-09-16T13:54:00.000-04:00

I found this red truck in a pack of 10 transportation vehicles. The whole pack was 25 cents and I added it to our crafts. When creating masterpieces with them one day, I thought this truck could be cute in a frame. Turns out I had black card stock, the frame and the mat already so it seemed meant to be! For less than a quarter, I created this for the shelves in Clyde's room. I haven't done a lot of styling of those shelves yet and excuse the reflection in this picture!

Magic!

2011-09-14T07:00:00.004-04:00

If I was going to put my house on the market, I would have quite a bit of work to do. On the list, would be removing all the "graffiti" from my walls. I recently discovered Lift Off #3 Stain Remover after reading a post on Little Green Notebook. The stuff is awesome! It works so well.

Marker, Crayons etc on Camille & Clyde small table

After Lift Off #3 Stain Remover

Paint spilled on my sisal rug when painting Clyde's new shelf

After Lift Off Stain Remover #3

I am in love with the stuff! If you have some little graffiti artists at your house, try it out. And if you need to sell your house, give me a call. ;)

My birthday

2011-09-12T07:00:00.001-04:00

My birthday was last Friday. Camille was also sick last week and spent one morning at my mom's instead of school so I could work. She came home with this large box and wouldn't let me open it until my birthday. She is a stickler for the rules like her Daddy! So cute!

So on my birthday morning, I opened this.....

I love it! That is me in there with the flowers.

Here is her sweet card....

I also got this sewing machine from Michael and I can't wait to make something. I have a lot of ideas and now need to find the time.

Michael's parents got me this cute sewing kit with a bunch of supplies inside.

It was a great birthday that ended with dinner out at Lemaire with Michael. Tons of fun.

Menu Planner

2011-09-11T08:13:00.000-04:00

Here goes....

Sunday - Southwest Chicken Chili Mac

Monday - Salisbury Steak with White Bean Mash

Tuesday - Crockpot Chicken Teriyaki (recipe below)

Wednesday - Gwyneth's Turkey Bolognese from my freezer

Thursday - Soft Taco's with Ground Chicken

Crockpot Chicken Teriyaki

1 lb boneless skinless chicken tenders
1 can (6 oz) pineapple juice
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 tablespoon molasses
24 cherry tomatoes (optional)
2 cups hot cooked rice

Combine all ingredients except rice in slow cooker. Cover, cook on low 2 hours or until chicken is tender. Serve chicken and sauce over rice.

I had a great birthday last Friday. Check back tomorrow for some pics!

Craft Cabinet Organized

2011-09-07T07:00:00.000-04:00

When we remodeled our kitchen almost 2 years ago, we had to create some cabinets on one side of our bar that were only about 8 inches deep. I used them for toys mostly but lately they seemed to be almost empty. Camille loves to color and do crafts and all of her craft stuff is in a large bin in her closet. It was hard to see everything in the bin and know what we had. So over the weekend, it dawned on me to use the kitchen cabinets to organize the crafts since we do most of our coloring and work at the kitchen bar anyway. I am so happy with it. I can also put a child lock on so little hands don't get in there unattended.

I used magazine holders and a file sorter for the paper. Since the cabinets are only 8 inches deep, the paper needed to stand up to fit. Most of the bins inside the cabinet are from the Dollar Tree.

Menu Planner

2011-09-05T17:34:00.000-04:00

We were without power from Irene until last Thursday night so the kids and I retreated to the beach for a few days and now Clyde has come down with Hand, Foot & Mouth. Yuck! I have been working hard on getting our house organized again so projects have taken a back seat. I am hoping we will be back in the swing of things soon. For now...here is this week's menu planner.

Monday - Zatarain's Jambalaya with Smoked Sausage and Chicken, Salad

Tuesday - Flank Steak with Red Skin Potatoes and Sliced Tomatoes

Wednesday - Italian-Style Chicken Stew (Slowcooker)

Thursday - Turkey Burgers, French Fries

Friday - Out for my birthday! Woohoo!

Irene in Pictures

2011-08-29T08:57:00.000-04:00

We are safe but haven't had power since Saturday at noon with no real estimate on when it will return. Our neighbors tell us they were without power for 12 days during Isabel. Let's hope that is not the case this time! Here are some pictures from our experience.

Ready for the storm!

With loveys in tow!

Hurricane Supplies

Watching Calliou on the Ipad while Irene passes by outside

Not too bad!

This picture is minus a couple of large limbs that had already been removed but could have been so much worse. Several trees were down over roadways in our neighborhood.

Clean up

Sorting sticks...Camille organized them into piles: big sticks with pine tags, sticks no pine tags, pine cones and acorns!

Our nice neighbor let Michael borrow his tractor to help get up the debris.

Oh we bought this yesterday am, and have plugged in our refrigerator, tv, wireless internet, a few lamps. It is better than nothing. Not excited about my cold shower.

Lovey got wet and we had to hang to dry!

There have been lots of arts & crafts!

Cross your fingers our power comes back soon!

Irene?

2011-08-26T08:01:00.000-04:00

It has been a busy week, we are preparing and wondering if Irene will hit Richmond. I have my batteries and water just in case.

A few picutres of my darling Clyde that I discovered on my cell phone....

Jumping out of the Crib Clyde...this is an old one that I never shared.

Dermabond Clyde....we are still waiting for it to fall off 9 days from the incident.

Car Climbing Clyde...notice how he is balancing on top of the steering wheel!

Be safe everyone!

Michael's Menu Planner

2011-08-22T13:20:00.000-04:00

Michael planned our menus and did the grocery shopping this week. Here goes....

Monday - Stuffed Pork Chops, Cinammon Apples, Stovetop

Tuesday - Angela's Awesome Enchiladas

Wednesday - Zatarain's Jambalaya with Salad

Thursday - Buitoni Tortellini with Bread and Salad

Friday - Steaks with Twiced Baked Potatoes and Corn on the Cob

Ribbon Tree

2011-08-18T18:00:00.001-04:00

As promised here are some instructions on making the Ribbon Tree used as the table centerpiece at Camille's 4th birthday party.

Supplies
Approx 20 yards of fabric (I used rolls of 4-5 yards from the Dollar Tree and Michaels so about $5 in ribbon)
Round Styrofoam ball (from Michael's)
Decorative Cardboard Box (from Dollar Tree)
Tissue Paper
Dowel (from Michael)
Styrofoam square to set inside Cardboard Box (from Dollar Tree)
Straight Pins (from Walmart)

After assembling the tree. I cut the ribbon into small 1.5 to 2 inch pieces and then looped and attached with a straight pin. Do one and repeat and repeat and repeat and repeat and repeat! This part was a bit boring and tedious.

As a reminder, here is my inspiration found on Pinterest.

Camille turns 4 at Kangaroo Jacs!

2011-08-17T20:31:00.002-04:00

Camille insisted on having her 4th birthday party at Kangaroo Jacs. For those of you not familiar, it is a warehouse full of inflatables.

I wasn't sure what to do for the invitation so I put Kangaroo in the search line on Etsy and found this cute birthday card with a striped kangaroo in a party hat.

I emailed Ryan from MAN vs GEORGE and an invitation and stickers were designed based on this kangaroo.

I am so happy with how it turned out and Ryan was awesome! From there, I decided to use this invitation as inspiration for the party. I found cute vinyl table clothes on sale from the summer line at Target from $1 to $2.50. I bought the plates and napkins there as well.

Then I found cute striped goodie bags to match the napkins and a banner from Target as well.

I cut tags from cardstock and added the stickers. Inside the goodie bags, I added a color your own cutout from the Dollar Tree as well as two pixie sticks, a lollipop and a candy necklace, bracelet or lipstick also from the Dollar Tree.

I used the same stickers and serrated scissors and cardstock to make cupcake toppers.

I also made this ball tree after seeing this one on Pinterest.

Stay tuned for a separate post on how to create this. It was a little time consuming and took a lot of ribbon but I found some really cheap at Dollar Tree and Michaels. Here are some more pics from the big day....

I ordered Camille's shirt from Libbie & Winston. Really cute shirts and very affordable. Check her out on Facebook.

A good time was had by all!

PS...Today Clyde met Dermabond! I can't believe they hadn't met before. Remember Clyde's carefree nature here. While hiding under the table, he hit his forehead on the bench at our neighborhood restaurant, Flinns. A little Dermabond fixed him right up. Camille to Michael..."Daddy...they glued Clyde's head back together."

Menu Planner

2011-08-15T20:18:00.000-04:00

Here goes....

Monday - Parmesan Crusted Chicken, Cannellini Beans with Roasted Peppers and Kale (Recommended by my friend, Ashley...tried it tonight and it is delicious. Recipe below).

Tuesday - Southwestern Casserole

Wednesday - Gwyneth Paltrow's Turkey Bolognese

Thursday - Flank Steak & Potatoes

Friday - Mexican Pizza ( I am going to adapt this and leave out the cinnamon and add jalapenos to the black bean mixture).

Parmesan Crusted Chicken
1 Egg
1/2-3/4 cup parmesan cheese
1/2-3/4 cup bread crumbs
1 tsp Oregano
Salt & Pepper
Chicken Breasts

Mix egg with a couple tablespoons of water. In another bowl, mix parmesan cheese and bread crumbs along with salt, pepper and oregano. Dip chicken breasts into the egg mixture then into parmesan bread crumb mixture. In a dish, bake for 40 minutes at 350 degrees.

Cannellini Beans With Roasted Peppers And Kale

Serves 4 as a main course; 6 to 8 as a side dish
While substantial enough to serve as a main course, with a crusty loaf of bread and a
salad, this recipe also works as a side dish with roasted pork, chicken, and firm fish like
sea bass and cod; be sure to omit the cheese if you serve this dish with fish.

If kale is unavailable, try chard. The chard stems may be included in the recipe - cut
them nto 1/4-inch pieces and saute the stems with the onions. Leftover beans served on
bruschetta make an excellent appetizer. Most tasters liked this dish with a somewhat
brothy consistency - the broth may be soaked up with bread. If you prefer a drier texture,
exclude the added water.

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
4 medium cloves garlic, sliced thin
1/4 teaspoon hot red pepper flakes
1 small red onion, sliced thin
Salt
10 ounces jarred roasted red peppers, drained and sliced thin (about VA cups)
1 pound kale, stemmed and sliced thin (about 4 heaping cups)
2 (15-ounce) cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup dry white wine or dry vermouth
Ground black pepper
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
1 lemon, cut into wedges

Combine the oil, garlic, and red pepper flakes in a large skillet over medium-high
heat. As the oil begins to sizzle, shake the pan gently back and forth to prevent
the garlic from clumping (stirring with a spoon causes the garlic slices to stick
together). Once the garlic turns very light golden brown, after 2 to 3 minutes, add
the onion and 3/4 teaspoon salt and cook, stirring frequently until the onion
softens and begins to brown around the edges, 2 to 3 minutes. Add the peppers
and cook until softened and glossy, about 3 minutes.

Using tongs, stir in the kale. When it wilts, add the beans, wine, and 1/2 cup water.
Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until the flavors have
blended, about 10 minutes. Adjust the seasonings with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve in warmed bowls garnished with cheese and a drizzle of olive oil and with
lemon wedges on the side.

We had Camille's birthday party last Monday at Kangaroo Jack's but I haven't had time to upload the pictures. Hope to get those up in the next few days. Check back for all the details.

Recipe to try!

2011-08-10T06:53:00.018-04:00

My friend, Lisa, sent me this recipe last week. She said it is her "go-to" for pot lucks and she always gets asked for the recipe. Can't wait to try it.

Asian Ramen Salad
1 pkg broccoli slaw
2 pkgs oriental ramen noodles
1 bunch green onions, chopped
1 cup sunflower seed
1 cup slivered almonds

dressing:
½ C oil
1/3 C vinegar
½ C sugar
both ramen seasoning packs

Crumble ramen noodles and run under hot water. Drain using colander. Place in 3.5 quart bowl. Add slaw ingredients and mix well. Combine the dressing ingredients and mix. Keep dressing and salad separated until ready to serve.

Thanks Lisa! If you have any recipes, you would like to share. Send them my way! astoakley@gmail.com

Vacation Week in Review!

2011-08-07T21:26:00.000-04:00

We spent the last 10 days in Sandbridge, VA! It was a great week and it is sad to get back to reality. Here is our week in pictures!

Dinner at the Baja

Wedding Watch (See tent in the background)

Gorgeous Night for a Wedding

Vacation Pet. This spider stayed by our front door all week! Yikes!

Cocktail Cruise

With Ice Cream

Back Float

Crab Catchin'

Only 1...we let him go!

Playtime with Cousins

Say Cheese!

Guess who turned 4 today!

Recipe Week! Friday

2011-08-05T06:13:00.001-04:00

Pork Chops Stuffed with Smoked Gouda and Bacon

2 ounces smoked Gouda cheese, shredded

4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper

2 (2 1/4 inch thick) center-cut, bone-in pork chops

1 teaspoon olive oil

1/4 teaspoon salt

ground black pepper

Preheat an outdoor grill for medium heat. In a small bowl, combine the cheese, bacon, parsley, and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper. Lay the chop flat on cutting board, and with a sharp knife held parallel to the board, cut a pocket into the pork, going all the way to the bone, but leaving the sides intact. Stuff cheese mixture into pocket, and close with a wooden toothpick. Brush meat with oil, and season with salt and more black pepper. Lightly oil the grill grate. Grill over medium heat for 5 to 8 minutes on each side, or until pork is done. Careful not to overcook! Serve with potatoes or rice and asparagus.

Recipe Week! Thursday

2011-08-04T06:12:00.001-04:00

Chipotle Pork Soft Tacos (courtesy Robin Miller)

(1) tbsp olive oil

(2) cloves garlic, minced

(1) 1.25 lb pork tenderloin, cut into 1 inch cubes

(1) 8 oz can tomato sauce

(1) tbsp minced canned chipotle chiles in adobo sauce

(1) tsp dried oregano

(8) 6 inch flour tortillas

(1/2) cup shredded cheddar or queso fesco or monterey jack cheese

Additional toppings (optional):

Sour cream

Shredded lettuce

Diced tomatoes

Sliced avocado

Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add the pork and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5 minutes. Add the tomato sauce, chipotles, and oregano, bring to a simmer and let simmer until the pork is just cooked through (still slightly pink in the center) and the sauce has reduced and thickened, about 5 minutes.

If desired, for warm tortillas, wrap them in a clean kitchen towel and warm them in the microwave for 30 seconds on High.

Arrange the pork on the tortillas, top with cheese and other toppings as desired and serve.

Recipe Week! Wednesday

2011-08-03T06:10:00.001-04:00

Donna Nash Chicken

1 lb boneless chicken breast, chopped

1/2 c olive oil

2 tsp lemon juice

3 tbsp soy sauce

1/3 c rice vinegar

4 scallions, chopped

4 cloves mince garlic

2 tsp crushed red pepper

1/4 tsp Tabasco

2 tbsp sugar

Mix all ingredients in a bowl. Add chicken breast. Cook in a skillet on medium-high. Serve over 1 lb linguine.

I like this one because I normally have all the ingredients on hand. I buy bags of frozen chicken so I normally have that in the freezer.

Recipe Week! Tuesday

2011-08-02T06:08:00.001-04:00

Kickin' Chicken with Crunch (courtesy You've Got Supper)

2 tbsp olive oil

4 medium chicken breast halves, boneless skinless

1 cup(s) plain yogurt, low-fat

1 tbsp brown sugar

2 tsp chili powder

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp kosher salt

1/2 tsp pepper

1 1/2 cup(s) tortilla chips, crushed

1 tbsp thyme (dried), fresh

1 cup(s) cheddar cheese (low-fat), shredded

1/2 cup(s) jarred jalapenos, chopped

1 medium lime(s)

Make breadcrumbs by tearing about 6 pieces of hearty white bread into 2 inch squares. Blend in food processor until some pieces are flaky and some the size of a pea. Toss breadcrumbs with 2 Tbsp olive oil and a pinch of kosher salt. Heat in skillet at medium for 5 minutes or until slightly brown. Breadcrumbs will continue to get crispy while they cool. Note…I use store bought bread crumbs.

Heat oven to 450 degrees. Flatten chicken breasts with meat pounder to even out their thickness.

In large bowl, mix yogurt, brown sugar, chili powder, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Add chicken breast to mixture. (You can marinate in mixture up to 24 hours or proceed.)

In shallow bowl, mix breadcrumbs, tortilla chips, thyme, cheddar, and jalapenos. Coat marinated chicken with breadcrumb mixture. Using your hands, press the mixture into the chicken.

Transfer chicken onto foil-lined baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes.

Serve immediately with lime wedges for squeezing over the chicken. I normally serve this with canned corn or corn on the cob and a mexi rice.

Recipe Week! Monday

2011-08-01T06:04:00.001-04:00

I decided to take a week and post some of our favorite "go-to" recipes. Check back every day as I post a new recipe. If you have a "go-to" recipe, you would like to share. Please e-mail me at astoakley@gmail.com.

I love casseroles because you don't have to serve a bunch of sides and they make great lunch leftovers!

Light King Ranch Casserole

1 large onion, chopped

1 large green bell pepper, chopped

Vegetable cooking spray

2 cups chopped cooked chicken breasts

1 (10-ounce) can fat-free cream of chicken soup, undiluted

1 (10-ounce) can fat-free cream of mushroom soup, undiluted

1 (10-ounce) can diced tomato and green chiles

1 teaspoon chili powder

1/2 teaspoon pepper

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

12 (6-inch) corn tortillas

1 (8-ounce) block reduced-fat Cheddar cheese, shredded

Sauté onion and bell pepper in a large skillet coated with cooking spray over medium-high heat 5 minutes or until tender. Stir in chicken and next 6 ingredients; remove from heat.

Tear tortillas into 1-inch pieces; layer one-third tortilla pieces in bottom of a 13- x 9-inch baking dish coated with cooking spray. Top with one-third chicken mixture and one-third cheese. Repeat layers twice.

Bake at 350° for 30 to 35 minutes or until bubbly. Note: Freeze casserole up to 1 month, if desired. Thaw in refrigerator overnight, and bake as directed.

Dining Room Update

2011-07-28T13:00:00.001-04:00

In March, I won this painting of pears from shopgoodwill.com. I paid right under $36 for it. I found this lamp for $4 at Diversity Thrift and already had the shade in my attic! I knew there was a reason I save all this stuff. The mercury glass vases are from HomeGoods and Marshalls.

I am considering doing a gallery wall around these pears. I have been slowing collecting artwork for it.

For Sale Pottery Barn Kids

2011-07-26T14:00:00.008-04:00

Now that Clyde is in a "big boy" room. I am getting rid of a lot of our nursery goods. I am selling the below items. If you are interested, email me at astoakley@gmail.com. If you are not local to Richmond, invoices will come via paypal and shipping charges will be additional.

Pottery Barn Kids Matelasse (Blue Trim) Bumper and Crib Skirt. $10 each.

Pottery Barn Kids Canvas Toy Bin $10

Pottery Barn Kids Baskets (3) & Diaper Caddy (2) with Green Plaid Liners. $10 per basket (includes liner). 3 BASKETS ALREADY SOLD. Diaper Caddies still available.

Polka Dot Down Pillow with Striped Tie Back $5

Laundry Hamper with crabs and turtles. Blue & Green Gingham. $5

Plaid Pillow $5

Green Leopard Valance (2) and Leopard Crib Skirt (Custom Made from Javis Davis) - $10 per valance and $10 for crib skirt.

Clyde's New Space

2011-07-25T21:24:00.000-04:00

Over the weekend, Clyde transitioned from his crib to a twin bed. We also swapped Camille and Clyde's rooms. A week or so ago, we purchased twin beds from Walmart for Clyde. We don't have a play space in our house so all the toys are kept in the kid's rooms. We decided that Clyde's new beds would work better in Camille's larger room and we could try to turn that room into also a great play space. It seems to have worked! As a recap here is Camille's room before.....

And now as Clyde's new room.....

The beds can bunk but with Clyde's "carefree nature" we felt it was better to leave them as twins for now. You may remember this post. They ended up being larger than we thought but it works well because Clyde has been sleeping in the bed against the far wall and it has a crib like feel.

Now to some other elements in the room. Last week, I shared my bookshelf find from the Salvation Army.
Here is the before....

Notice Clyde on the left. This was probably right before he stepped in my primer!

Here is the bookshelf after....

The finish of the bookshelf was very smooth and I was not at all interested in sanding it. Thanks to a tip from Richmond Thrifter, I used Zinsser Bulls Eye 123 Primer which can be used on smooth surfaces without sanding. Then I used two coats of paint from Home Depot. (I can't find my color swatch. Leave me a comment, if you are interested in the color).

I found this artwork at Diversity Thrift (love that place!) for $3. It was in a too small Ikea frame. I went to the attic and found a frame that I picked up over a year ago at a yard sale. I ran up to Ben Franklin and had them cut a mat and glass. Why is framing so expensive? The double mat and glass was $70. I put it together myself because I wanted it right away.

Before

After

I also found this artwork already framed for $18 at Diversity Thrift.

I found all of Clyde's bedding at HomeGoods. The sheets are Tommy Hilfiger and are super soft for $14.99 a set. The curtains were from his old room and I found some of the throw pillows and lamp in our attic.

While I was taking pictures for this post, Clyde was in the kitchen. He had moved the stool and gotten the flour off the middle shelf of our upper cabinets and as I walked in the room was pouring the ENTIRE bag into this bowl. Camille was so excited when she saw it, she had to join in. You could say that was a huge mess.

I am still working on Camille's new room. Posts to follow on that one.

Bookshelf Found!

2011-07-20T21:15:00.000-04:00

Found this great bookshelf at the Salvation Army. I paid $80 which I felt was a little high but it was so perfect I couldn't leave it in the store. This weekend, we are moving Clyde into a "big boy" bed and switching Camille and Clyde's bedrooms. My house looks like a bomb exploded. Clyde's new beds, bedspreads, sheets, mattresses and this shelf sitting in my living and dining rooms. I plan to paint the shelf and there is already one coat of primer on it. Stay tuned for before and afters of our room switch!

Front Door Update

2011-07-18T15:14:00.000-04:00

It is complete! Well, almost....I still have a little touching up to do.

As a reminder, here is my inspiration photo. I searched online and decided on Cabana Green by Benjamin Moore. Turns out Home Depot can match Benjamin Moore paints if you know the name and/or number. So I ended up purchasing the paint at Home Depot.

Here is the Before...

Here is my door with some primer as well as two test colors (Cabana Green and Floradale Isle).

And here is the AFTER!

At first I wasn't too sure about the color but now I like it. We still hope to re-do the siding, get a new roof and a new 6 panel glass storm door but this will have to do for now. I may still get a window box or two.

Nothing too exciting on the menu this week. I am serving a couple of our favorites...Angela's Awesome Enchilada and Zucchini Wrapped Pork.

Brasso!

2011-07-15T15:30:00.001-04:00

Sorry for the lack of posts this week...where did the time go?!

Last weekend, I cleaned the knobs on this chest with Brasso. It is one of the first things I bought for our house after Michael and I got married seven years ago. I found it at an estate sale and am not sure why I never tried shining the pulls. Look at the difference.

Before

Add caption

After

And speaking of getting married. This weekend is our 7 year anniversary! We hope to get out for dinner on Saturday night but are still deciding where. Suggestions welcome!

PS...I painted my front door. I need to do some more touching up but will post pics next week!

Menu Planner

2011-07-10T14:28:00.000-04:00

We were in town this weekend and I am currently finishing up a few projects! Stay tuned as I post about them this week.

For now....here is this week's menu planner....

Monday: Sliced Steak Soft Taco Slider's w/Guaca-Salsa (from Rachel Ray Magazine, scanned below)

Tuesday: Gazpacho and Grilled Cheese

Wednesday: Parsley-and-Lemon Cod with Zucchini Salad (from Rachel Ray Magazine, scanned below)

Thursday: Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad

My tomato pie from last week did not turn out. It was so watery...does anyone have a good tomato pie recipe?

Mirror Mirror on the Wall!

2011-07-07T08:12:00.003-04:00

I got this mirror for FREE when a family friend was cleaning out her mother's house. Same place I got the plates and the dressing table stool. I wanted to paint it Youthful Coral since that didn't win out for the dressing table. But my designer sister steered me towards black which I do think was a good choice. She usually knows best.

Here is the before....

And the after....

Ignore the streak marks on the mirror and the hook above!

You may notice a few of my finds from Diversity Thrift and Class & Trash above on the tabletop.

Deal Found

2011-07-06T07:52:00.001-04:00

I found these cute black shoes by Chinese Laundry at Marshalls for $10. I needed a black flat for summer so I was thrilled. They are a jelly material with a velvet bow. An unusual combination but it works for me!

Weekend Recap & Menu Planner

2011-07-05T07:50:00.000-04:00

We had a great weekend at Sandbridge. Lots of time in the sun, great playtime with the cousins and a birthday celebration for my mother-in-law!

Camille & I made this banner last week for the beach house 4th decorations!

Menu Planner.....

Tuesday: Summer Tomato Pie, Salad (I will probably cheat and buy a pie crust for the tomato pie).

Wednesday: Mexican Lasagne

Thursday: Summer Corn & White Bean Soup, Bar Grilled Cheese

Friday: Pork Chops Stuffed with Smoked Gouda and Bacon, Red Potatoes, Spinach

Great Trip!

2011-06-28T20:26:00.001-04:00

Michael and I had a great extended weekend in Ft Lauderdale. We choose the destination because it was beachy and you could fly direct there from Richmond via Jet Blue!

View from our balcony

View from my pool lounge chair

We stayed at the Hilton Ft Lauderdale Beach Resort. It was nice and we liked it because each room had a kitchen. We picked up some beer, wine, waters, breakfast bars etc on our way from the airport which helped cut down on our dining out costs.

Dinner at Saia!

We did manage to have some great dinners there....we dined at Saia at the B Ocean Ft Lauderdale Hotel. And Last night, we ate at Johnny V's on the Las Olas strip....another delicious meal.

Thanks again to my mom, Kate & Anne Hunter for watching Camille and Clyde. I know they had fun and it was great knowing they were in the best hands. It was wonderful to get away but I missed those two...we had a tearful reunion today at the airport!

We have a busy rest of the week....a real estate closing, my first meeting for this year's Jazz Festival at Maymont, and gearing up for a trip to the beach! Woohoo! Summer is in full effect.