Odwalla Mo' Beta

This time of year, I need all the healthy goods I can get. This just happened to be on sale at Kroger so I gave it a try. I'm going back for more at Publix this very night. 170 calories, it makes a great breakfast. It's all about staying hydrated these days, folks. Keep those colds away!

Calling All Ginger Ale Addicts

Hello, again! No, I didn't stop blogging. I just couldn't do it with finals week. I hope all of you are having a wonderful holiday season so far. Now that I'm free, I'm in the process of whipping up my Christmas menu. One thing we must not forget, a varied drink list. Are you struggling to accommodate the drink list this every holiday season? It always seems an issue when entertaining. We need enough variety to please all yet not so much that we can start a concession stand. An excellent sugar free AND caffeine-free choice is Canada Dry Diet Cranberry Ginger Ale. Available everywhere, this has the taste of the holidays, yet will still allow for a long winter's nap. Serve this as a choice and guests will be singing your praises ever more. Hallelujah!  

Caffeine, Get Your Caffeine

Sam's has cases of these precious bottles for sale right this very minute! We used these at Thanksgiving and they were such a hit. Also, great for recycling and a pop of color to your holiday drink selection. What a perfect addition to the Christmas table!

Planters Almonds

Planters has a great Roasted Salted Almond. In my opinion, a great study snack for finals. Yes, I snack, and snack, and snack. I'd rather snack than study, so, most times, I do.

A Fix to a Fashion Disaster

I have three pairs of flannel pajamas that I wear all winter long. I love them so much! Last night, I had the candles lit while doing homework. Bed time approached and it was time to blow out all of the candles, safety first. I took one pillar I had off a wall sconce and the candle split down the side. Perfect. Wax went everywhere, all over my hands, and yes, all over my favorite pair of flannel pajamas. Let's not forget that it sprayed onto my leather chair, all over a wall, and all of my cookbooks on a shelf. Oh. my. goodness.
I've had to get wax off of furniture and books before, as this is not my first candle disaster. But, clothing, no. For a moment, I thought they were ruined, too much oil in the fabric, on and on and on. I googled how to get the wax out of the clothes. I found that you could place two paper towels one on top and one on bottom of the fabric, then iron the wax out of the clothing with a non-steam iron. It seemed like it wouldn't work, but I was desperate. I tried it, and somehow, success! The paper towels absorbed the wax. I immediately put the pajama set in the washer by itself, and magically, all was anew. I hope you never spill wax all over a clothing item, not to mention one of your faves. Yet if you do, problem solved! For he rest of the household items I mentioned, a hair dryer, soft rag, and butter knife work wonders.

American Apparel Groupon

Remember this post on American Apparel V-Necks?

It just so happens they have a great Groupon right now. Its $25 for $50 in apparel. A great time to stock up on basics, especially if those on your list need some under the tree. I haven't bought it, yet, but am seriously considering one for Billy boy's Christmas. Yes, he knows it's that time of year for new t-shirts!

GROUPON HERE

Every Man's Home Needs a Live Door Swag

Hello? What man doesn't love a live Christmas door decoration? I've been dying to do a live door swag for as long as I can remember. Got a front door, couldn't resist. I love the natural and simple Christmas palette. This seemed just the thing for a manly man, accompanied with the bird door mat, almost too chic to handle.

Billy, precious Billy bought me the greenery at Home Depot. We chose the live rosemary trees instead of cypress because they can also be used for Christmas dinner! I filled in with sticks from the yard and velvet ribbon from Hobby Lobby. I used metal wire to wrap the garland together. Also, I wrapped the trees with Dollar Tree craft paper and taped on more of the ribbon. Spritz the live garland for longer last, if you too are planning to get your swag on this Christmas.

For the wreath, I bought a wood base at Hobby Lobby. I took more greenery and wired it on top of the wood. I taped the ribbon to the inside of the door, no wreath hanger needed. Simple, rustic, and inexpensive. Wishing you a great holiday season and wonderful weekend!

DIsh Soap

Yes, you guessed it, it's Method. I just tried out their dish soap, excellent purchase. It has a pump at the top and that's almost more than I can handle. It does the job, folks. I hope I've peaked your curiosity about this brand by now. I feel like I blog about it every post. When it's Method, it's good. Have a great Friday!

Towel Turban

My hair is getting really long. It is very heavy and thick. Thus, it takes longer to dry. I like air drying my hair, but I hate that heavy towel feeling on my head while I'm doing other things. It falls off no matter what kind of balancing moves I attempt. How to solve this? No, not an As Seen on TV Towel Turban. This item is right at your finger tips. Twist wet hair up into a large flour sack towel (that's what I have...a little larger than your average dish rag..but dish towel will work fine, too). I'm free from neck pain and at ease to relax after a long day. Next up, Aladdin auditions.

Home Sweet Home

Exciting news to blog about today! Billy and I bought a house! I'm slightly obsessed with this little gem. It's a 1941 bungalow, need I say more. I've been long in love with old homes. They have so much character and warmth. We are so grateful and blessed to have this little one. We drove past it one day not long ago and I knew it was the one! After looking at tons of homes, I wondered if I would ever find one suitable for us. I'm somewhat sad that the home search is over, but I know that this is the right place.

Billy is being a Mr. Minimalist here these days. Are you surprised? Although I'm close to an anxiety attack, I haven't been decorating. I just leave him here with his coffee table and his bed. He doesn't care for now, so I try try try try to do the same.

Please indulge me in coming posts to update you on projects that we are doing. Thanks for reading along on this new adventure!

Have to Have Half and Half

Hello, readers! I hope all of you had a wonderful Thanksgiving. I know I did! I want to share one of my "this is oh so bad but oh so good" favorites with you today. I used to hate regular half and half. It tasted too thick for my coffee concoction. Well, well, well. I sampled some of this from a Kroger manger's special for $1.19 and I am now a convert. It does have calories, but it only takes a drop to make your coffee taste like perfection. I'm in love with the Horizon brand, as I've mentioned before. It is SO worth the money. Once you go organic (milk), you'll never go back. Have a great Monday!

That Thanksgiving Tablescape

Happy Monday, everyone! Here are a few pictures of my tablescape for Thanksgiving last year. I love recalling previous holiday ideas. I am elated over this time of year. There's always an excuse to decorate! I hope you're inspired to decorate if you haven't already. Don't forget the camera, either! Here's a list of supplies:

Gray tablecloth: Two king Wal-Mart flat bed sheests.
Placecards: Folded scrapbook paper.
Napkins: World Market
Twine: Dollar Tree
Sticks and Pinecones: Nature's best creations.
Gold chargers: Target
Candles: Hobby Lobby clearance
Popcorn Seeds: Dollar Tree
White table runner: Pottery Barn clearance
Mod Podge Pumpkins: Made them, for directions type in Mod Podge in search box top left of blog.
Clear Jar for Thankful Tree: Anthropologie clearance
Mustard Fabric: Scrap clearance at Hobby Lobby.

Thankful Tree: Everyone used their little tie-on (above forks) to write and talk about something they were thankful for. Then, we placed it on the tree. I kept them all for this year. 

Taught me everything I know!! 

Proper etiquette: Host sits at the head of the table. This is the chair that is at the very end and when walking into the room, is the most visible head on to all guests. 

Oh please let the stars align so I can have my own home book one day! 

Thankful Tree

I Needed My Purse

I'm one of those women that loves purses. I've been called Mary Poppins several times because I strive to be that woman, the one who has anything that could remotely be purse worthy. I've got those treasure items that everyone wants but never seems to have, bandaids, nail clippers, lotion, hand gel, and snacks. Although I strive to be that handbag wonder woman, there are days that I simply forget it for whatever reason. No more Faith, no more. Why do I think I can just take my keys and license thinking that will be enough? No sir. No ma'am. WAKE-UP WOMAN! That's how I have to talk to myself. A handbag is the woman's right hand man. The ultimate, I need this item. I'm blogging this to beat it into my head, I do need my purse, every single day. Grabbing the keys, the license and a $10 is not sufficient for a milk run. I had one of those, "I cannot believe I did that," very days just last week, leaving home in a rainy rush, I didn't grab my purse. This was so frustrating! All of these things happened before I could return home to get it:

1. Where was the umbrella? In my purse.
2. Lips chapped.
3. Hands dry.
4. An hour after arriving at work, got the most splitting headache. No Advil.
5. No money to buy a coke to attempt to help my head.
6. Had to stay late at work, no money for food.
7. Someone asked for my etiquette business card on my lunch break. Didn't have one to give.
8. Forgot an item for a co-worker to borrow, guess where?
9. Friend's birthday, no money to pay for a gift.
10. Needed to mail a bill, stamps in purse.
11. Saw several friends, no lipstick.
12. Watch left in purse.
13. Phone in purse. Missed calls and texts.
14. Coupons and grocery list for dinner, don't have them.
15. Giftcard to get a makeup item? Nope.
16. Extra key to get to Billy's to use the printer, who needs that?
17. Had no band aid for a cut on my finger.
18. Gas light comes on on the way to work.

Take the purse.

A Superb Salty Sweet

A friend brought this chocolate drizzle popcorn to work yesterday. As my mama says, "Girl, I like to have died." I cannot keep my hand out of this bag, it is getting ridiculous. I went to Earth Fare just to buy this, that's how good it is!   It's also at Target. That means...deep breath...it's there for a few more brief moments until I can go buy it all after work so you better hurry and go on your lunch break or hope to goodness that you don't live in the same city as I do. A great snack for the upcoming holiday. Enjoy!


Similar popcorn recipe from previous blog:
FUNFETTI POPCORN

Favorite Fabric Softener

If you are a frequent reader, you know how much I love this brand. You can search previous posts about Method using that keyword in the search box at the top left corner of my blog. Target put the fabric softener on sale last week, so I decided to give it a go. My laundry STILL smells like it, even days and days later! This formula is clear, so no worries about stains on clothes. Plus, their scents are amazing. I'm hooked! Must. Buy. Stock. In. This. Brand. 

Don't Forget My Party Snack

These days, I'm snacking all the time. I do better with many small meals than large ones. That's not such a hard rule to follow, eat lots all day long? Done. Enter pistachios, one of my true loves. These are great at parties. They aren't messy as long as you have an extra bowl for shells. A fast, healthy, and etiquette approved snack! Hope they're not sold out for Thanksgiving. Get crackin'!

Not Just A Cake Mix

Would you like to make a delicious cake?
Yes.

Would you like it to taste homemade even if you don't have tons of time?
Yes.

Take a cake mix of any sort and add skim milk instead of water. You can add an extra egg, too. Sometimes I do, sometimes I don't. If you don't already do these with cake mixes, start now. I'm warning you, bigger slices, bigger slices.

Mod Podge Pumpkins

This was my table for last Thanksgiving. See those pumpkins in the middle? Homemade, baby! You'll need some fake pumpkins (clearance at Hobby Lobby), Mod Podge, a paintbrush, a trash bag, and scrap fabric. You cut the fabric into odd shapes and paste it on the pumpkin. Allow to dry on top of the trash bag. I used two coats of Mod Podge. In just a few days, I'll be pulling them out again. They look just as great as they did last year. It is such a fun, cheap, and easy craft. I cannot wait for this wonderful holiday!

Homemade Pimento Cheese

Let me start off by saying homemade pimento cheese IS one million trillion billion times better than anything you can buy at the store. Nothing is more southern than this dish. It is so simple, so divine, so cheap, and so worth the calories.   So. Worth. The. Calories. When I was little, I wanted this every single day. Dr. K made this special recipe for me quite often, and even had to ration me from it. I'm head over heels for you, pimento cheese.
Here's How:
1 bag of Kraft Sharp Shredded Cheddar
1 bag of Kraft Mozzarella
1 larger jar diced pimentos (larger means more than those teeny tiny jars but not the super sized version)
Hellman's Real Mayonaise
Garlic Powder
Kosher Salt
Pepper
Ritz-"THE cracker of choice," I say!

Directions:
For a large batch, pour entire bags of both cheeses into bowl. For a smaller batch, use half of each. No need to measure, folks.
Start with a large scoop of mayo and mix. The key for me is to have more cheese than mayo, but make it as you wish.
Add more mayo until you reach your desired consistency.
Drain pimentos and toss in bowl.
Dash a tiny pinch of salt, several shakes of garlic powder, and desired amount of pepper into the mix.
Taste and see what it needs. Add more of whatever you wish.
Stir.
Done.
Great when cold from fridge, I throw mine in and count down the minutes until I'm divulging carelessly in this bowl of southern goodness.

Cold Weather Care Part 3

I wanted to blog about another great Cold Weather Care item for the winter. It is MAC Studio Moisture Cream. This stuff smells heavenly. It is gentle on the skin and non-greasy. I love love love love looooovvvvveeee it. Great for all skin types. Available at maccosmetics.com or any Mac counter.

Cold Weather Care Part 2

Whew! I fell off the blogging band wagon last week. Sorry, folks. We had some birthdays, papers, tests, and work to get done. No worries, I'm back in the saddle again.

Sometimes in life, you get what you pay for. Yes, I like bargains. But, we all know there are certain higher priced items out there that pay off in oodles and oodles. This lotion just so happens to be one of those things. $10 at Sephora. One of THE best beauty products I have EVER used. EVER. Did I mention I've used a lot of beauty products? Just thought I'd throw that in for kicks. L'Occitane Shea Hand Cream, its just like buttah; it is buttah.

Cold Weather Care 1

This cold weather season, I've been DETERMINED to not get chapped hands, face, or lips. Needless to say, I'm obsessed with this chapstick. It is not waxy, which makes it all worth it to me. It tastes great, and that's always a plus. I highly recommend it, for a well spent $2.14. Happy moisturizing! 

Hot Legs

Hot legs, not what you may be thinking. Today is not about toning exercises. Rather, it's the lovely time of year for more food and pants that have my favorite, elastic waist! That's right ladies, eat those cupcakes, and one, and two, and three, and four. Pick up the Halloween candy and slowly tighten your bicep to place it in your mouth. Whew! Exercise, done. I LOVE cold weather. I LOVE having tons of layers to cover up with, as well. I bought a two pack of Ann Klein fleece lined leggings at TJ Maxx for $10.00 this past weekend. Oh my goodness! These things are the best! Warm, comfortable, slimming, and cheap! I highly recommend them. And...if you're in the mood for some more reads, check this past post below. Happy Monday!

Hoisery at Work

Spanish Peanuts

 

Ok, people. Another Publix BOGO. I'm sorry, but I've been meaning to blog about these for a long long long time. My recent purchase of two cans threw me over the edge. Cannot be beat! They aren't too overpowering and the sea salt addition is to die for. These are REALLY great with candy corn. Eat up!

Awesome Apple Juice

I went to Publix last night to pick up my weekly BOGO. They have the best deals! Every week, it seems like something I love is on sale. This week, Mott's 100% Natural Apple Juice. Oh. My. Word. This stuff is insane! It taste so pure. It's just like fresh pressed, which if you've ever had it, you know what I'm talking about. The flavor of this cannot be beat. How have I ever lived without it? Happy Fall!

Let's Talk Starbucks

Do we know Faith? Yes. She is an AVID coffee connoisseur. I don't treat myself to Starbucks that often. But, when I do, I make it worthwhile. If I had one off my list of coveted concoctions from there every morning, I'd surely be in the poor house. Here's my all time favorite order:

Grande Blonde Roast (AH-mazing) with a shot of vanilla and room for cream

Top that off with some skim milk and Splenda and I'm in coffee heaven. Please, while you're at it, saunter over to the condiments bar. They have free songs on ITunes and free apps each week. Hello? Free...Faith's favorite four letter word.

Dishwasher Discovery

For as long as I can remember, I've had trouble with apartment dishwashers. In Tuscaloosa, yes. In Huntsville, yes. I've been using Cascade tabs for all of these years and blaming my problems on the cheap apartment dishwashers. Poor things, I was all wrong.

Dr. K bought a Sam's bin of off-brand dish tabs, which wound up being too large to fit into her soap compartment. She sent a sample with me and to my amazement, dishwasher gloom is over! The off brand tabs have worked a million times better! I'm not blaming it all on the Cascade. Still, since I've stopped using them, my dishes have looked glorious. No white residue, no cloudy cups, no removing from dishwasher to wash in sink. If you, too are having this trouble, you might want to give those off-brands a try! At least if it doesn't do the trick, you'll know it really is the dishwasher! Mine is Member's Mark. Have a great Monday!

It Was ALMOST Free at Dillard's Dig

I bought Dr.K this tank at the Dillard's Dig. It was originally $98 and I paid $3.20. Oh, yes. I did. A $98 tank, are you insane? $3.20 was ALMOST free. So. Close. to. Victory.

Tide Washing Machine Cleaner

I LOVE this stuff! Not only does it remove dirt from the washing machine, it makes your whole home smell AMAZING! I definitely recommend it if it's been awhile since you've cleaned your machine. Have a great Wednesday! 

Super Fast Snack

1. Honey Maid Chocolate Grahams
2. Cool Whip

Dip crackers in Cool whip, oh my goodness. Or, put them in the freezer for a quick ice cream sandwich. Obsession.

The Beauty Department

This is a GREAT website for all things beauty. I love the colors, tips, and tricks. It's a great leisure read for all my fellow makeup junkies!

http://thebeautydepartment.com/

My Favorite Leggings

The Target Mossimo Long Legging is the BEST black legging anywhere! It just so happens that they're marked down to $5.00 this week. These are great for so many things, just go get some!

Best Things to Do in Chattanooga

Fall Foliage coming in...bliss!

Aretha Frankenstein's 

Thank goodness for Dr.K

This cool fall morning, I woke up reminiscing about a great weekend getaway Dr. K and I took a couple of years ago. I just looked at the pictures, 2009? Ouch! Time just feels like it is passing me by! I want to go on more weekend excursions, and today's post is encouraging you to do the same. For us Alabama folks, especially in the northern region, Chattanooga is a great place to do just that. Here are a few suggestions of great places to visit, eat, shop, and stay:
1.) Back Inn Cafe-Excellent local fare!
2.) Tony's Italian-Italian at it's best!
3.) Aretha Frankenstein's-Breakfast to blow your mind and barstools that are fit for kings.
4.) Delta Queen-Who doesn't want to sleep on a riverboat?
5.) Chickamauga National battlefield-A must for history buffs like me!
6.) Bluff View Art District http://www.bluffviewartdistrict.com/: SO serene at night, safe for walking.
7.) Art Shops along Market Street: Local crafts out the wazoo!

A Tight, A Sock, A Boot

We all know that I love the tights and boots combo. However, sometimes tights are not enough to stabilize a long hard day of boot wearing. Instead of hiding my sock inside the boot, I sometimes have it peeping out on top. This adds a great extra touch to an outfit, especially when it's cold out.  This one small change can transform the cozy factor, which I live for in a good outfit. One last note, I hate tights with seams at the toe. I once had a good discussion about this with a friend. How validating to know I'm not alone? After awhile, the seam hurts, especially with a sock on top. If this also bothers you, feel good to know that I've seen plenty more seamless tights out this season. That means, someone's thinking it through! Have a great Wednesday!

A Delicious Decaf

Ok, I'm obsessed with blogging on coffee. Sorry, I'm not sorry. Publix has this BOGO this week and it is fabulous! Hello? Two bags of coffee for $5.87 total? Yes, I'm all in. I am always looking for great blends for FRENCH PRESS. It's not too weak like many decaf blends, and is great for cold fall nights!

Apple Appetizer

It's apple season! Yippee! What to do with all those crisp apples? Make appetizers for guests, of course! These little gems are SO good together. Who knew? I thought it might be a great idea for a salty sweet bite and I loved it.

You'll need:
These crackers
Apples of any kind, in a thin slice
A hunk of blue cheese

Directions:
Lay crackers out on platter
Slice thin strips of blue cheese
Slice thin pieces of apple
Layer cracker, cheese, then apple OR get wild and layer cracker apple then cheese.

P.S. You can toss apples in fresh lemon juice to keep them from browning.

Guess that Coffee Table

The proof is in the pudding, people. Do I want this $600 full-price Pottery Barn coffee table on top of a metal stand or my exact replica junk store buy for $60 WITH some HISTORY thrown in? Not a very hard decision. I can do without the legs on the coffee table for a $540 in total savings. I cannot tell all of you how validated this made me feel. You never know what you'll find at those antique stores around your town. It's a great fall weekend to get out and look around. Now that I've saved you from deciding how to spend your time, have a great one!

Candle Wicks

Candles burn brighter and cleaner if the wicks are trimmed before EVERY burn. Cut them down to about 1/4" thick. It takes a few minutes to get the flame stronger, but they smell better, last longer, and there's no smoke! You'll be amazed at the difference. I know I was! You learn something new everyday. 

Cracker Craving

THE best entertaining crackers. That is all. 

The Perfect Vanilla Coffee

I love vanilla flavored coffee SO very much. Still, some vanilla coffee blends are too much for me to handle. I want the taste of vanilla, but not so much that I feel like I'm drinking a bottle of extract. An equal blend of Folgers Classic Roast and Dunkin' Donuts French Vanilla makes the perfect combination for my morning pick me up. For my four cups (really two regular coffee cups full) I use two tablespoons of each. I love the balance of this mix. It's not too strong nor is it too weak. I use a regular coffee maker and often, my french press, too. More blogs about coffee below.


Read more on 
French Press Fanatic
Foods Great with Coffee
Coffee and Punch for Parties

The Best $1.00 Candle

HERE

I see that one of my favorite Dollar Tree items has become so popular it has been placed on backorder. Just when I wanted to order a box of these for my Halloween decor, they're gone! I love these large pillar candles. 8" glass jar for $1.00? Come on! You have to order a minimum of 12, which is only $12.00, so I say, for twelve candles, TOO worth it. These are GREAT inside of canisters. If you're patient enough, you'll get on the waiting wagon like me, or at least keep them in mind for future occasions! Have a great week! 

Other Links to Dollar Tree Posts:

HERE

HERE

HERE

This Little Light

Candlesticks don't have to go on the table. They are great for bathrooms, bedrooms, and desks. All alone or in a bunch, they add an extra special ambiance to your home. This one reflects in a mirror and gives off a great glow to my whole bathroom. Start experimenting, it's the perfect time of year for tons of candles. Or, if you're like me, the tons of candles law applies for all 365.

Davis Wholesale Florist

A great and undiscovered floral warehouse is right here in Huntsville, Davis Wholesale Florist. Their selection is excellent, affordable, and unique. Had anyone seen a pincushion flower? Not me, but I sure bought one. This place is great! Besides loads of flowers, it has all sorts of canisters, ribbon, and supplies needed for events. No need for pre-arranged flowers anymore. Go here and make your own! I love it! 

Davis Wholesale Florist

1101 Putman Drive (right across street from UAH main entrance)

Huntsville, AL 35816

Also in Birmingham:

3601 S. 5th Ave

Birmingham, AL 35222

WEBSITE

Ozetta Obsessed

I have been thinking about how much I love cold weather all day long. Surprised? I think not. Cold weather makes me think of my favorite wardrobe staples. Thus, I want to do an update on a blog from a year ago. HERE. The first Etsy shop that I discussed was Ozetta, all sorts of handmade knit pieces. I do get sentimental about clothing, attaching a memory to an object, can't be helped in my opinion. I have some of my best fall and winter memories wrapped up in the two cowls that I own. I just love her talent! She has more quality pieces than I've seen in high end department stores. How great to support someone's craft? LOVE!
 You can sign up on her email list HERE. She sends out email promotions when she has sales in her Etsy shop. This is the time that I buy. Last year, I even gave most of my family Ozetta pieces. Now there's an idea I can get behind, again. Multiple style options, multiple colors, and machine washable. I love my fashion people, and it doesn't get much better than this.

Salsa

Some of THE best salsa I've ever had. Available at Sam's. See how much I'm dreaming and posting about food lately? I want all the things I can't have. This stuff hurts but, it's made the worth it list. 

Lovin' Lemon

This stuff is SO good. The pink is my favorite. Available in the cold section next to orange juice. That is, if I haven't bought it all.

Fiesta Roasted Corn Dip

Lately, I've been having trouble with food. Since my surgery, I cannot get back on my regular diet. I eat fruits, veggies, cheese, and bread. That's about it. Not the worst thing in the world, as its been a great diet! I've been exploring recipes to try to mix up my choices. The truth is, I have to get in the mood to eat something. If I want food, I want it. If I don't, I don't. It's a weird way to live. I know things will get better, but if you know me, you know I can normally pack in some food! One recipe that has been wonderful is this Fiesta Corn Dip. I've gotten used to modifying recipes, at least for now. I toned down the spice in this one. I think this recipe is GREAT for football parties, especially! Roll Tide Roll! I have enjoyed it so much. Dr. K and Billy loved it, too!

Ingredients:
6 ears of corn (Sam's has THE best)
1 large can black beans rinsed and drain
1 bell pepper chopped (I used orange)
1 bunch green onions chopped
1/2 large onion chopped (depending on how much onion you like)
Large spoonful of light sour cream
1 block 1/3 fat Philly cream cheese
2 heads fresh chopped garlic
dash of cumin
S and P

Recipe Note: I aimed for a more veggie than cream cheese/sour cream ratio.


Directions:
1. Rub corn with olive oil, salt, and pepper and roast in oven on 400 until golden. Allow cream cheese to soften in large bowl while corn is cooking. Chop veggies now, too.
2. Cut corn off cob with knife, carefully!
3. Mix all ingredients above, no need to wait for corn to be cold. Once its warm to the touch is fine. Modify ingredients and spices as you wish. Some people might not like the more mild I-just-had-my-gallbladder-removed-version.
4. At first, I worried that this dip would wind up soggy the next day, but it didn't happen. Mark this down as a convenient make before guests arrive dish. I like mine chilled. When I can stand the pain of a fried item, I love Tostitos Lime chips. Holy moly, THE best. Otherwise, baked Tostitos just have to do. Enjoy!

Kiwi Neutral Shoe Polish

Here's a blast from the past product that I LOVE! This revives my boots every season. Boots? Who am I kidding? Every shoe I own! I highly recommend the neutral shade, as it's great for all tones. Buff it on with a cloth, allow to dry, and you're kicks are as good as new! When people ask you where you got those five year old boots, you'll be thrilled! I know I am!  

Super Steamer

Several weeks ago, I snagged this steamer at TJ Maxx. I HATE ironing, so this seemed like a wise investment. I do not know how I ever lived without it. It makes getting ready a million times faster. I just hang up the garment, give it a few strokes of steam, and I'm out the door. I haven't had any problems with it whatsoever, except for my obsession over steaming things for pleasure. Why is this task relaxing? I have no earthly idea. It's also great to sanitize your home. You better believe I'm wheeling this thing around, faster than Mario Andretti at an Indy car race.

THE Best V-Neck

Who doesn't want a v-neck thats colorful and comfortable? It's that time of year when layers are FREAKIN' ADORABLE! This shirt is perfect for men and women. V-neck, a good look for all! I LOVE mine and they're made in the USA! I take a large in these. If you know me, that can help you compare. A final note, I wish my website model man would look a little happier. After all, he is wearing one of the best shirts I've ever owned.

HERE TO SHOP

Type in v-neck to shop other selections.

Musical Review

I had the great opportunity to see 2Cellos and Elton John in concert last night. Man, worth every penny! We all know Elton John, but we might not know of 2Cellos. I don't even have the words to describe their music. Wow! Peaceful, serene, and memorable come to mind. This music would be so great for house guests, studying, stores, offices, weddings, slideshows, endless options! I appreciate REAL musical talent. If you do too, you'll love them.

Ye Olde Switcheroo

 IT"S THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR! Time for me to remind you to swap the closet. Yes, that means take everything spring and summer out and put every fall and winter thing in. Closets are much more fun when they're in season. Looking back, I've written about this a few times. See how good I am at reminders? Who wants to dig through shorts and tanks for a velvet blazer? No fun on a busy morning. It takes me about an hour, but it's finished for now, at least until March. Hallelujah! Now I can get on to other things. I place the most convenient things for the season at the easiest location. Tights all together. Cardigans all together. Nothing is out of its own category. I store the other seasonal items in containers under the bed or in my closet. Safe from air and such. This includes shoes and bags, nothing is left out. It makes me feel like I'm opening a whole new wardrobe. I see those things I haven't seen in awhile and it's fabulous. I fold most things on shelves, much easier! Organization, one of life's simple pleasures.

Reflect and Repose Equals Reinvent

It's 9/11. A day that brings pain to us in so many ways. Still, it is a day every year I try to remind myself of these three r's. It's often hard to look back on life and think of why we are where we are. First, we need to reflect, even when it is hard on our confidence. People have hurt us and we've hurt them. We need to tell ourselves we are wrong, and admit it. We need to tell others when they've wronged us. Awkward, but often necessary. Everyday I have to tell myself a million times that I am wrong and it is such a shot to my pride! I'm literally down for the count at 7:08 p.m. with the mere thought of it. I don't want to reflect on my mistakes, or other's, but it's not all about what I want.

Next, we need to repose. Isn't it weird how after a tragedy hits the news, it hurts us, and then we act like it never existed? This "forgetting" is necessary for human survival, still, it pangs us to realize we've forgotten some important moment of life. Driving to work this morning, it hurt me to realize it was 9/11 and I in my morning coffee rush had forgotten it's significance. We have to repose, i.e. rest or relax. We need that pause. Stop Faith, coffee can wait. We need that moment of justification. We need the simple things. We don't have to forget. We just need to remember how good we've got it.

Finally, we have to reinvent. When I teach etiquette, I honestly get tired of people telling me they cannot wear this or do that anymore. "I'm too old for this." Are you alive? Yes. Then you're not too old. You're never too old to reinvent what needs reinvention. Relationship? House? Wardrobe? Make-up? Cooking skills? On and on and on? If we really want change, we will find a way. Our lives are too short for the can and not long enough for the will.

Rit Makes All Things New

Do you have a garment or home item that has somehow been ruined? Solution? Rit dye. I am obsessed with this stuff and I want to use it all the time. A friend let me in on it and I am so thankful. You can get it at a lot of typical stores, but Hobby Lobby has it with a 40% off coupon that can be printed off their site. This rounds out your total to $1.50. I dyed two pillowcases and this sweatshirt the perfect shade of light teal. Plus, had I needed it, I plenty left over for other projects. Make note: time to ruin more things.

You can follow the package directions to suit your needs. I used the hot water method in the tall pot. You also need to add a little bit of dish soap and salt, as the package says. This is too easy, too simple, too fun, and too cheap not to try. I'm a dye hard fan.

Easy on the Eyes

Do you need that liquid eyeliner? That eyeliner pencil? That gel stick? No. All you need is a cheap dark eyeshadow of your choice and a one time purchased eye liner brush. Lightly dampen the brush, dab it into the powder and you've got a great lightweight liner. It doesn't cake, stays on in the heat, and doesn't make you feel like you've just chopped ten onions. You can make tiny wings at each corner easier than you can write your own name. It's cheap, it's fast, it's about to be fall! Have a great weekend!

Dollar Tree Mesh Bags

If you have no idea what this is, bless your heart. Get up from the computer, get your car keys, and go to the Dollar Tree. They are waiting there for you. Not my all time favorite stop in the world, but fabulous for a few key items. I am DEDICATED to washing my clothes in these mesh bags. They help clothes last longer, prevent stretching, and keep items with button/hooks separated. Laundry is a delicate task. It should be treated as one. It also happens to be my favorite chore, so I can talk it up. If I'm going to spend so much time washing, folding, ironing, and steaming, you better believe I'm going to make it worth my while. A mere $1 investment can make a huge improvement in the care of your wardrobe. These come in all shapes and sizes to fit your needs. If I've said it once, I've said it a million times, "There are some bandwagons you just need to hop on."

P.S. Other great finds THERE