Bunnies And Burlap

                                                       

Whoa. I'm just 2 weeks late with my Easter kiddie tablescape post. Better late than never, right?
(procrastination pops up once in a blue moon) Nonetheless, this has been TOO much fun creating this for my daughter whom loves little surprises and decorations.

I could literally do this as a full time job. This my friends, is what I call using your creativity to the fullest. The look I wanted to go for was a shabby/chic/vintage//rustic tablescape. That look combined in one, has my name written all over it. The decor is just so timeless and just perfect for a little 3 1/2 year olds little table! This by far has been my favorite table to decorate!

     I first laid out all of my decor supplies to organize exactly what I what using and what I needed to still craft. One of my most favorite parts was taking my envision and making into something real. It's amazing how our thoughts turn into action.

I bought dollar plastic eggs and spray painted them with gold metallic spray paint. I found fake hydrangeas for a dollar and cut them down to fit in mini tin cans. The burlap and lace runner, rose colored glass egg, yellow-flowered tea light, faux grass center piece, mint green with white polka dot fabric and the string of faux pearls I found at Hobby Lobby for very cheap. I somehow collaborated in my mind as I made this purchase, that the decor would all flow very nicely together.

 

 

Believe it or not, the burlap printed eggs on sticks are put into a wine cork. Due to the sticks not being able to stand on it's own, I had to get very creative on how to make it work. The sweet light blue duck plate I found at the local grocery store for less than 3 dollars. The wooden lace bird I also found at Hobby Lobby and it just screamed vintage all the way.

 

 

I actually found the Easter rustic can and the mini pastel egg carton at Hobby Lobby too. You can never go wrong in that store. It's by far one of my favorite shops to shop at for decorating and craft ideas.

 

                               

 

The mint laced-pearl egg I actually made. I took cardboard and cut out an egg shape. I found mint fabric that I covered it in using fabric glue and glued the lace and faux pearls to it to add a vintage touch. I love the way it turned out! The burlap bunting was my favorite little project! I cut out flag shape burlap pieces and glued doilies to the back of it. I printed out vintage Easter photos to glue on the back of the doilies. I took a white and tan burlap pattern and sewed it at the top to complete the bunting. I ended up draping the faux pearls at the top of the Easter banner!

 

 

This was the "adult" Easter brunch table that I hosted at my abode! I had so much fun with my home encompassed by fresh flowers and treats!

 

 

Friends! Do you know the best and I mean BEST way to make hard boiled eggs?! Bake them! Preheat oven to 350, place in a cupcake pan and cook in the oven for 30 mins! Wallah! The best tasting eggs ever. (I promise)

Little lady coloring eggs the night before Easter! We had so much fun!

 

Madison did such a wonderful job coloring these by herself. Of course with a little help from Mommy and Daddy...

 

Madison's Easter basket I created! I used vintage rose fabric instead grass to create a vintage look, along with faux pearls to lay in her basket!

 

 

My daughter's Easter apparel! And boy did she rock this little outfit out :)

 

 

Madison and I on Easter morning. I swear nothing beats the love and friendship from your own child.

HAPPY EASTER TO ALL! Thank you for reading!

 

Until next time...

The Spiritual Side Of Things

Clear your mind and breathe deeply. May this post not exist of mundane or put you to sleep, but rethink your life for a peaceful one. Enjoy!

The older and wiser I become, the more I become in tune with my inner being. I'm flabbergasted by the outcome when I incorporate meditation, yoga and spiritual guidance into my life. I can't begin to tell you how amazing I really feel after I set these routines in my everyday schedule. Though it's just my opinion, my opinion is that this world really lacks this connection with our soul. When I talk about soul, it's totally different from our bodies. You may think I'm off my rocker a bit, but truth be told that the body is our physical component of our being and our soul is who we are; it is a part of our spiritual component.
The more I open my eyes to this world, the more I see hatred, greed and cruelty than love and acceptance. Though, I remain optimistic in hopes for change, I do a huge part to carry out the good in myself and others. I look at it this way. We all have bubbles. Bubbles of different beliefs, religion and thoughts. It's all based on how you choose to live your life. I try to remain simple as possible. Less TV and more educating myself on positive things. I rather engage into my soul of what's lurking than to absorb myself into negative energy and heart wrenching stories on the news. I find my life is more at bliss that way.

 

I have yoga classes every Tuesday and walk out feeling refreshed and renewed. (Yes I bought a cheetah yoga mat). Yoga in style!

 

 

Oh, Deepak Chopra! How his books enlighten me ten folds. It's hard to put his books to rest.

One of my favorite quotes of mine by Deepak is:

 "IN THE MIDST OF MOVEMENT AND CHAOS, KEEP STILLNESS INSIDE OF YOU" 

 

 My oh my, how that just pulls heart strings with me. Perhaps, it's because it's simple and true yet easy to forget to do. The other book I been reading is by: Wendy Shanker, called "Are you my Guru" based on meditation. No matter what is ailing you, this book will make a remarkable fulfillment inside you. I rented these books at my local library to test the waters out for a good read. Not to my surprise, I have been highly satisfied with my choice for these books!

 

 

I try to instill Buddha's way of living into my life as much as possible. After learning about Buddha, I really have been inspired by all the good qualities. "A Buddha's compassion, to wisdom and power are completely beyond conception, With nothing left to obscure his mind, he sees all phenomena throughout the universe as clearly as he sees a jewel held in the palm of his hand".

 I love the word "Dharma" . It means "protection". By practicing Buddha's teachings we protect our self from suffering and problems. I could go on forever on the many affects Buddha's teachings have switched up my way of thinking and living.

 

 

Because I can't be into the spiritual side of things and not have my own Buddha head at home. Not only is it a part of my decor theme, but it's a good reminder every time I take a glance at this meaningful statue.

 

 

I am a sucked for motivational quotes. I posted a few that I think is worth reading!

 

 

 

 

Stay tuned for my next posts! Keep the peace inside you, friends!

 

 

Love Is In The Air

Happy Valentines Day readers!

 I hope you all enjoy this post as much as I had fun brainstorming and creating it! Nothing screams Valentines Day fun than decorations, festive children clothes and heart shaped food! I've always been a crafting and decorating freak, but since I became a mother, my love for it all became more inseparable! There is something about taking something so small and trifling and making it into a magnificent piece. Whether it's for parties, holidays or just for the home. This Valentines Day, I wanted to make it extra special for my 3 year old daughter and decided to take her mini table and turn it into a party in itself.  My eyes are glowing hearts! I've been so elated to create this post to share this with you all...enjoy!

Vintage Valentines cards are so timeless and beatific for my taste!

This is where the crafting started. I took burlap and cut them into triangles. Added some paint to make the X's and O's. Found dollar (soap scented) roses from the craft store and glued them to each of the corners. So not only is this a burlap banner but a Rosy smelling one :) For the white hearts, I used a cookie cutter shaped heart on paper and outlined it pen. I cut along the outline and hole punched the top for the twine. Wallah! All under ten dollars. Trust me readers, making your own decor is SO much more fun and inexpensive!

OK so this photo...Ah, yes. The night I was pondering on ideas what to do for a large decor piece , I laid out thirty four light pink cupcake cups and took up a big part of my living room with this. I found decorative black sticks for the arrows and created this masterpiece for a giant heart. I then headed to photo grid to add this "Love" logo in the middle. After ten times arranging the heart to be a perfect shape and having my daughter want to constantly jump on them, it turned out just how I envisioned it! Needless to say, it was very easy!

I adore this Valentines Day card! 

Because I can be a little obsessive with dolling up my babes, this is ONE of her outfits for Valentines Day morning. This heart shaped top is from H & M, pearls are from my Grandmother, heart shaped glasses I found at the dollar store in a pack of three, and the tutu I made myself. Going through my daughter's clothes, I found nothing but pink and red clothing. Eek! (I need to veer off in colors) but it did work in my favor by making it easy to chose apparel for a special day.

I just HAD to have Valentine leg warmers for Madi! Girls can never go wrong with these. Not only are they warm, they totally are a style favorite of mine. I looked everywhere and found these imperial shaped ruffled leg warmers on etsy. I also received this headband with it all for eight dollars! Now that's a steal. The shop I got it from is called "Redneckcandlesgifts" . The toddler girl accessories are just exquisite! Head on over and check them out!

Valentines day breakfast made with love! Heart shaped pancakes are my child's favorite! I'm not a big advocate on junkie breakfast eating, but we splurge on festive days! Not to mention, these are confetti pancakes with a twist of cut up apple slices. (Shh don't tell). 

I just love adding in the chandelier to add a touch of the posh feel!

This was my favorite part! Decorating Madison's mini table! For the center piece I used a heavy duty cardboard rod that holds upholstery and wrapped it red durable fabric. I used burlap to tie a bow around the center of it. I then tied the white cut out glittered hearts and tied that also. I had found the red flowers and the glittered heart shapes on a stick all for five dollars to put in the center. The two-toned color heart shapes I bought at a craft store and hole punched them to add the twine in there for a heart banner. The love mug, heart straw and the mint "be mine" plate I had bought all for less than five dollars at the craft store. The tin can I bought at Target and used chalk to write "love" on it. I like to call this "decorating on the dime".

 I took an aerial shot of her complete table! My heart has been so fulfilled with crafting and decorating for my daughter for this Valentines Day!

I have to brag a little bit here...I made my first chair backing envelope out of fabric and a small stitch job! I couldn't be happier with the outcome. I admit, it was my first rodeo on that kind of thing. Nothing a little fabric and sewing can't do. I wanted to keep this Valentines Day theme shabby chic with a vintage touch and but adding a vintage rose tablecloth to tie it all in.

Last but not least I am adding in a special guest. One of my best gal pals Shelby over at Mommyhood in Heels and Flats and I put our heads together and wanted to share both of our Valentines Day kiddies table setting decor together. So we are linking it up! Please check this lovely lady out! :)

Thank you for stopping on over readers and checking out my Valentines Day post! I hope you all share the love! Today go on and tell someone you love them. Saying "I love you" is never said enough...

I leave you with

"All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then won't hurt"

Soul Candy Saturday

Happy Saturday readers!

Soul candy you ask? Yes, you read right...soul candy. Things that feed our starving souls! I've done a lot of pondering the past few days, I finally concluded what feeds my soul (besides being a mother, that's the obvious). As I hope to inspire and rethink what feeds yours! After being encompassed around different situations of emotions in the past few weeks, I've put all of my advice in one basket where I kept it nice and fresh (I say that with a smile). For my advice is only from my past feelings and out pour of emotions on life events. I have an abundance of soul candy inspirations but will name my top 5 :

WANDERLUST:  For those of you who are not familiar with the word, It means a strong desire to travel. (I didn't learn that word until Pinterest came around). No matter what events are occurring in your life, it's always nice to pick a place on the map where your heart desires to visit and book a ticket and just go. (Often times I wonder why I don't listen to my own advice). I once was told by a good friend of mine "travel while you can, because once you have children it won't ever be the same". I took her advice to heart and really soaked up my traveling frenzy as much as I did. One year later I was swallowed into motherhood (I wouldn't trade for the world). Whether it's boating/fishing/sunbathing on a lake for the weekend at a lake house or hiking the glacier mountains in dead winter or flying to a place you never been, it's all apart of fulfilling your wanderlust core. Boy oh boy, do I still  have a bucket list full of countries and states I would love to visit. Hopefully by my 30th Birthday, I can knock at least 5 places off that list. Traveling and being adventurous is totally a soul candy of mine!

COFFEE SHOP-IN-IT:  Ah, yes...the coffee shops! If you are a coffee drinker like me, you will especially appreciate this one! There is nothing like walking into a coffee shop with the smell of espresso and quiet music playing in the background with a diverse group all around. The best part of it, is meeting a friend there for talks over coffee or bringing a good book to read. I just yearn for quaint, lovely, feel-good coffee shops. The ones not so much in the rural parts but in the city life! The atmosphere instantaneously brings me at peace.

TAKING DRIVES :  Whether it's a drive to clear my head or just a scenic drive to capture sunsets and sun rises, taking drives has always been a favorite of mine. From the time I can remember my lovely cousin and I would take drives religiously to nowhere, just to clear our head and talk about life. There was something about not having a specific place to go and as we trusted the streets to take us to our unknown destination. We found ourselves often winding up in the country as that seemed to ease our stewed over minds. Of course we always had our cup of Jo in our cup holders with the windows down and heat up no matter what the weather was like outside. Still do this to this day. Not to mention our "cruising tunes" blared up because sometimes all you need is some loud music with a drive.

 

 

STARGAZING- I am a big sky buff! The night sky to be correct. Something about a dark sky filled with stars on a warm summer night listening to night peepers and crickets that really gets my soul revved. There is a place I use to go called Lake Hudson where people around the states brought their telescope equipment to look at the planets and stars. Once I got to see them closely and learn about what I was looking at, I fell in love. Something about our solar system that is absolutely wild. Shizamers! It's actually strange that I have thing for skies as my astrological sign is water. (Yes I believe in astrology signs as well).




SPIRITUAL MEDICINE :  There is nothing like getting a massage, pedicure and manicure, hair done, meditating, taking a mud bath, or going to a Zumba and Hot Yoga session. Anything spa has my name written all over it! I am a sucker for it all! This all falls in the same category as I would like to call this group "spiritual medicine". Doing things to make the mind, body and soul feel good by getting pampered or simply working out the body. If I had it my way, I would have a masseuse live in my home! I'm that addicted to keeping my body in tact and feeling good. Sometimes working from the outside heals and rejuvenates the inside and makes the body feel ten folds better!

                                                        
Stay tuned for my next post!

*All photos are captured by me.

Bust A Move

 

Let's have an honest session here...who neglects their daily staying healthy, fit and active routines? Ready... Go... ME! I am my own worst enemy at times with this. I constantly have always battled keeping up with my daily workouts and being true to myself. After having a child, I seemed as if it got worse to these commitments. As every year the New Year would bring "I am doing it", well as the years went by my New Years resolution always went down the drain. For whatever reason I found excuses and my summer days were spent at the lake house drinking vino..I mean why would I want to workout on 75 degree sunny days? Well that was the "Id" in me always talking. What I would do is eat anything under the sun that had sugar and fat because in my mind I could. Well yes, I could but I really wasn't being true by having "cheat days" which ended up turning into an everyday being a ''cheat day" for me. You are probably thinking whoa Nelly where's the control? And that's right, I had none for myself. Pathetic? More like triple 100 times pathetic. There would be times where I couldn't even look at french fries or a brownie without having a stare down for 10 minutes debating on whether or not that's going in my stomach or being left alone. (I bet you want to know who won) Sad but true my eyes and stomach won..Dang it! I did it again..I was left in a war with myself. But you see there is hope. It's call fighting the fight and finding it inside yourself to actually do something about it! I made it a point to start a run routine 4 days a week in the summer of 2013 at a park down the road from me, but as even the days got at a higher temperature I began to slow it down and eventually it because at a halt. See, I did it again. Failed to complete what needs to be a lifestyle change. I don't like to call it diet. Diet is a fad and is temporary. Lifestyle change is changing what you eat and making the healthy choices a part of who you are permanently. After the ring of the New Year of 2014 I cracked. I cracked over the fact that I, me, myself couldn't hold on to a commitment.
This is where I will share my handy dandy workout routines with you that I have incorporated into my everyday life. Let's just say I'm on day 8 with the Tracy Anderson Method and Zumba 3 days a week...

 

One thing you can do is if you have children, include them into your workout. (It's good to drive them to a healthy start at a young age) . Make your workouts fun, challenging and one of your "feel good" things to get your day going.

 

 

I'm no health coach or nutritionist, but my routines that have helped me along the way, I want to share with all of you! I want to encourage whoever you are out there to never to neglect yourself or make excuses for why you don't have time to stay healthy. Let me tell you, I was at that place and I never want to revisit it again! When I workout and eat healthy, I am such a happier human being. Not only does it release the endorphins, but by the end of a workout you want to pat yourself on the back for striving to be better and keeping the commitment. The night owl in me, I prefer my workouts in the evening so whatever preference you have do it to your liking! Plus, I believe in mind over matter. If you already put your mind into that you are dreading it, it would be a dreadful workout. But if you start with a smile on your face, and find that something that pumps you up, then your workout will be determination and success. Don't put it down before it even started. (I am speaking from my own experiences).

 

Now with that being said, I believe we all have to indulge into junk food(in moderation) once in awhile so we don't deprive ourselves from it. We all know how temptation can chew us and spit us right out.

 

So ladies and gents go bust a move today! Today, I did my Tracy Anderson Method already and feel like a million bucks. I promise you will too! Find a workout that suites you best!

 

Look forward to my upcoming post for tips and my routines!

 

Happy Healthy Day!

Bonding With Nature

Who would have thought technology would have taken over our lives in a sense? From cell phones to social media, it some how wrapped us around it's little finger. I admit, I'm even guilty of the distasteful habit. Electronics seem to be constantly at our nose and I feel it's more important than ever to get our children outdoors more so than not. In my deepest belief children need to use their imagination to discover more than what's inside their everyday life. Teach them the names of flowers and trees, or even explain how they grow. Teach them the rotation of the earth and why the sun comes out more days then others. Can you tell I am a big advocate on this? (with a smile)

From my own personal outcomes getting my daughter outside as much as possible throughout the day and taking the time to explain things about the nature around us has always made a positive impact by giving her a sense of understanding and knowledge. As it was engraved into me always to get outdoors (I can thank my parents for that one), I want to pass that importance to my child.

                                    
As I ponder on these thoughts daily, I hope I am out there inspiring people as I am surrounded by people whom inspire me. I leave you with...


Today look into the sky and dissect the trees around you. Go ahead...bond with nature..(with your children too).
I promise it will be worth it.


"Look deep into nature...and you will understand everything better"-Albert Einstein

Little Feet In A Big World

 

 

             

  I constantly am reminded to enjoy every bit of my child even if it's the time consuming time outs or snacks past midnight. (One of my best pals would get this one).
Since mother nature decided to pour out a snow storm for the past 3 days, I've had time to reflect on my life and really look at the little things that pass before our eyes.

One of them was how small my 3 year old Madison's footprints were. During our fun filled days spent outside, I've had the joy of really soaking in all the beautiful moments spent with my child . I am guilty by taking for granted those small things that can mean so dear to our hearts. I am especially reminded when we are on our way to Madison's school to drop her off in the mornings. There is not one time that goes by where I think one day she won't let me hold her hand, or give her kisses in front of her friends, just being this small won't last. I even crack a tear when I drop her off knowing I am leaving my pride and joy in the hands of another person. (yes, I'm that mom)

Think about it. Our children are so fragile, unique, and so tiny in such a big world! With growing minute by minute, their little brains are constantly learning and absorbing the everyday surroundings that we teach them. They are just little hearts filled with so much innocence and love.

So friends, today go on and really admire everything your children do and soak in the littlest moments. One day we will sit and wish we would have done it. Don't wait, because time as I'm writing this is ticking. And our sweet little babies will be won't be babies forever. Stare into their eyes and connect with them. Embrace their bad moods and temper tantrums...after all, they're just little feet in a big world.