tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26254199519302199152024-03-27T16:53:34.357-07:00Live GorgeouslyAshleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06645204545369641986noreply@blogger.comBlogger19125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2625419951930219915.post-56421476367192530142012-12-01T19:12:00.000-08:002012-12-01T19:12:01.928-08:00My (Cheap) Absolute Beauty Must Haves!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-45OqtFGQIkA/ULqYC1bT-PI/AAAAAAAAAwU/VghjWpBAA_c/s1600/Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-45OqtFGQIkA/ULqYC1bT-PI/AAAAAAAAAwU/VghjWpBAA_c/s640/Collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">For those of you who know me (in real life), you know that I love anything girly, <i><b>sparkly</b></i>, feminine, and I love <i><b>beautiful things!</b></i></span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I thought I would do a post for all of you on my absolute <b><i>favorite beauty products.</i></b> Some I have been using for years and some more recently. Every single item above can be purchased at your local Walmart, or <i><b>drug store.</b></i></span><br />
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<span style="color: magenta;"><span style="font-size: large;">1. Suave (yes you read that correctly) Keratin Infusions Smoothing Shampoo and Conditioner.</span> </span></h2>
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I would recommend the <b><i>Smoothing</i></b> kind only, they have a color care and volume line as well and I really don't think they compare to the smoothing one. Now I know everybody has different hair, but if you have heat <i><b>damaged/colored hair</b></i> at all I would really suggest this! This is a pretty bold statement but it is really the truth... <b>THIS IS MY FAVORITE SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER I HAVE EVER USED.</b> I have used every brand you can imagine Salon brands super fancy included, and yes <b><i>Suave</i></b> is my fave. Give it a try. This stuff lives up to it's claims. It has healed my split ends it smooths and I can straighten my hair, or curl it and it manages to still hold curl but be soft and silky as well. I am serious, if you are not addicted to your current Shampoo and Conditioner. <b><i>Try this!</i></b></span><br />
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<span style="color: magenta; font-size: large;">2. Maybeline BB Cream.</span></h2>
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Try this instead of foundation if you want a more natural sheer coverage and a little bit of a glow. There are different brands of <b><i>BB creams</i></b>, this one is my personal favorite. They say that it will do all these amazing things, my personal opinion is that it is a tinted moisturizer. I use this during the summer and when I have a tan. It let's <b><i>freckles</i></b> etc. show through but makes your skin look more <b><i>even</i></b> and <b><i>natural.</i></b></span><br />
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<span style="color: magenta; font-size: large;">3. Salley Hansen Air Brush Legs.</span></h2>
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><span style="color: #999999; font-size: large;">I have told a lot of <b><i>friends</i></b> about this and all of them love this stuff! I use it all year long. During the <b>Fall/Winter</b> if I don't want to wear tights and want my legs bare I use the light glow. It makes your legs look so much nicer. No red splotchy spots, veins etc. It is not a <i><b>self tanner</b></i> it just makes your legs looks one color and really nice. I can deal with white legs I just don't want white and red legs. Get me? I use the two other colors if I have a tan at all. Let it dry for a few minutes and this stuff <i>will not rub off</i> on your clothes.</span> </span><br />
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<span style="color: magenta; font-size: large;">4. Maybeline Dream Matte Mousse.</span> </h2>
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Ok Guys... I don't know what I will do when they stop making this stuff. My mom, my sisters and I all <b>swear by this!</b> I get asked all the time what type of foundation I wear, so do my sisters and my mom. It will give you a <i><b>flawless finish</b></i> like no other makeup you have used. I do not recommend the liquid version of this. It's ok but does not work near as well as the mousse. We all wear the same color and that is <b><i>Nude Light 4</i></b>. This looks perfect if you have fair skin with <b><i>olive/yellow undertones.</i></b> If you have more pink undertones then you might want to try the Ivory or Fair shade. It will give you <i><b>photoshop face.</b></i> For real. :)</span><br />
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<span style="color: magenta; font-size: large;">5. L'Oreal Elnett Hairspray</span></h2>
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Best Hairspray. <i><b>Hands down</b></i>. This is another thing that lives up to it's name. It will not make your hair crunchy but it hold curl really well. Spray in your hair and then run a <b>brush </b>through your hair will be soft but stay put. It's the best. </span><br />
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<span style="color: magenta; font-size: large;">6. L'Oreal Telescopic mascara. </span></h2>
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">This stuff does it all. Makes your lashes <i><b>super long</b></i> and thickens quite a bit too. That's another question I always get asked. "What mascara do you use?" Well this is it. For years leading up to this I always used Christian Dior. I like this as much. And it doesn't cost near as much. ;) Little warning, it is pretty wet when you first put it on but you will learn how to apply it. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">There you have it. Let me know if you try any of my recommendations. :) </span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">XO, </span><br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Ash</span>Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06645204545369641986noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2625419951930219915.post-2819804812511164282012-10-30T21:35:00.000-07:002012-10-30T21:35:12.072-07:00An online design board for my friend<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This is my friend, Bekah. Isn't she absolutely gorgeous?!! And her little babies are so cute too! Bekah and I have known each other for a very long time, and even though we have never lived around each other, we have always remained pen-pals.<br />
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I first met Bekah at some Church Revival Meetings in Dillon, MT. I was about 10 years old, she was probably 11 or so, I literally thought she was the coolest human being on the face of this planet. I stayed the week in Dillon, and we hung out every day. At the end of the church meetings, right after the Friday night service, we decided that we were going to hide in the bushes and it seemed like a really good idea at the time because we thought we would probably never see each other again. :) We hid from our families so they couldn't take us away from each other. Well, I think this lasted about 30 minutes before people were yelling our names and I heard a random man mention maybe calling the police, the next thing we know her dad is pulling both of us out of the bush. I was TERRIFIED!! He said Bekah was getting a spanking and was going to tell my dad I needed one too! I am still a little scared of her dad to this day. :) Kidding kidding! He is a very nice man. Bekah and I didn't lose contact after that. She would write me and my sister a lot of letters and she made necklaces that she would mail us. She was awesome, she still is and has a wonderful family now.<br />
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Now that she is all grown up, is married and has little babies of her own, she asked me to give her some opinions on her entry way. And so I created an online design board for her. Here is what her entry way looks like now!<br />
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She is renting the house she is currently in, which was built in the 1800's and has tons of character! Lots of molding and unique things, however because she is leasing it, she can't paint. Luckily, it is painted in a really pretty shade of yellow. Here is what I have in mind:<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vUNzOO6wctg/UJCTWngX1UI/AAAAAAAAAuE/cUwlwBEHuSg/s1600/OB-Beks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vUNzOO6wctg/UJCTWngX1UI/AAAAAAAAAuE/cUwlwBEHuSg/s640/OB-Beks.jpg" width="524" /></a></div>
The exact items used in this design board would total about $3500. I am pretty sure that is not what Bekah has in mind for a budget, so here are my suggestions:<br />
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<li>Keep your console table (obviously) that thing is gorgeous!</li>
<li>Add a lamp for some light. I like the one in the picture because it is mixing a little bit of rustic with other fancy elements. Add a black drum shade. Adds instant drama and sophistication, and will look oh so pretty against your butter colored walls. You can pick up super gorgeous high quality lamps at places like TJ Maxx or Ross. Or get a vintage lamp from a thrift store and add a black shade. You will love it. </li>
<li>Plan on spending $40-$50 on a really gorgeous statement mirror. I would go with round because of the character of your house and the shape of your console table, I think it would be so pretty! This will be your biggest expense. But you won't regret it. I know they had mirrors like the one I used at our local TJ Maxx for under $50.00. The one I used in the picture costs $550.00. You can find it <a href="http://www.noyadecor.com/UM-12619-P" target="_blank">here </a> or you can save $500.00 and go to TJ Maxx ;) A big mirror will open up your whole living space!</li>
<li>Buy a tray for keys or other misc stuff that might tend to pile up on your entry table. You can find cute trays at walmart and just paint in the color you want with a little spray paint. Put some flowers on the tray to add some flare.</li>
<li>Introduce aqua onto your console table (since you have that color in your living room) Buy some cheap candle sticks, paint them with Krylon Catalina Mist, it is such a gorgeous soft color.</li>
<li>Buy a used chair, make it fun....I would personally paint it in antique gold color. Think of the chair as more of a statement piece, not something that is super practical. You can get used chairs for $5.00 a piece at places like Salvation Army. Look for a chair where the seat can be recovered. It's a really easy project. My favorite spray paint right now is Krylon Champagne Nouveau!! It is the perfect color if you are going for a vintage type of look! To make it extra fun I would cover the seat in a really pretty light blush pink color. It would be a statement and would be oh so pretty! If you are not brave enough to do a pink chair, maybe add a pink pillow just for me. :)</li>
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Here are some pictures I found with the color scheme I think would look so beautiful!</div>
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Good luck Bekah! Let me know any other questions that you have. Make sure to send me a picture when you have completed your entry. </div>
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XO, </div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ash</span></div>
Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06645204545369641986noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2625419951930219915.post-41953676051651490472012-10-11T21:06:00.000-07:002012-10-11T21:06:25.565-07:00Entryway Reveal!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dw4G8Zm3Trc/UHeFOkf2NUI/AAAAAAAAAqQ/s8mbXAx4974/s1600/OB-snapshot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="618" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dw4G8Zm3Trc/UHeFOkf2NUI/AAAAAAAAAqQ/s8mbXAx4974/s640/OB-snapshot.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Well hello there. We have been <b><span style="font-size: large;">so busy</span></b> working on our house. No... not the kitchen, sorry :( But the living room, hallway, and <b><span style="font-size: large;">entryway!</span></b> We made our <strike>poop</strike> rust doors our <span style="font-size: large;"><b>first priority!</b></span> (I'll explain below) Anyway, I did the above<span style="font-size: large;"><b> design board</b></span> as inspiration for my entry..... How do you think I did, bringing it to reality?! </div>
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We are really happy with how everything is coming along. I knew that I wanted the look of the <b><span style="font-size: large;">design board</span>,</b> but on the cheap. If I would have purchased the items used in that design board, my entryway would have cost me approximately $3,000. Um, <span style="font-size: large;"><b>YA RIGHT</b></span>! There is no way. I pretty much stuck with a $100.00 budget. And that is including the wood that my husband and I used for the molding. Of course we got all the molding at, you will never guess.... <span style="font-size: large;"><b>Habitat for Humanity!</b></span> Here is our "Entry" wall before!</div>
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No, that is not <span style="font-size: large;"><b>stained wood</b></span>, the people that sold us the house actually painted it that color. Weird I know. Anyway we got busy, painted all the doors in the house a really <span style="font-size: large;"><b>dark charcoal gray</b></span>, all the trim white, and then added some trim of our own.</div>
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And now we have this. </div>
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We wrapped the molding around the hallway along with a gallery that I did with some <span style="font-size: large;"><b>poster frames</b></span> for really inexpensive. I added some baskets to keep blankets in, or <span style="font-size: large;"><b>random junk</b></span> that I may not want on the top of my <span style="font-size: large;"><b>pretty styled table</b></span>. I love my hallway and entryway now. Before they were the ugliest part of our house. Now with all the paint, pretties and pictures of us and our <strike>pets</strike> <span style="font-size: large;"><b>kids</b></span>, it's my favorite part of our home!</div>
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I picked up this <span style="font-size: large;"><b>vintage lamp</b></span> at our town garage sale for <span style="font-size: large;"><b>$1.00</b></span>! Just added a black shade, instant update to a lamp. </div>
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Added some <span style="font-size: large;"><b>sweaters</b></span> to my vases. They need clothes too. </div>
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This is what I want to end up with, in my<span style="font-size: large;"><b> living/entry area:</b></span></div>
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<br />What do you think of my<b><span style="font-size: large;"> progress</span></b> so far? </div>
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Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06645204545369641986noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2625419951930219915.post-61998000237692729442012-08-28T20:46:00.000-07:002012-08-28T21:13:49.563-07:00Cracker Barrel/ Texas Roadhouse Green Beans Copy Cat!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dJvnhVXbxow/UD2B6fBXqHI/AAAAAAAAAlo/_-cHi-Kg40M/s1600/P8282356.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dJvnhVXbxow/UD2B6fBXqHI/AAAAAAAAAlo/_-cHi-Kg40M/s1600/P8282356.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
This is my favorite way to cook <span style="font-size: large;"><b>canned green beans!</b></span> These are sooooo easy and sooooo <span style="font-size: large;"><b>delicious</b></span>. I think maybe those two restaurant chains might used ham hock or something, and that also there green beans are<b> <span style="font-size: large;">slow cooked</span></b>. Mine have just a few <span style="font-size: large;"><b>simple ingredients</b></span> and I love them just as much! Once you make canned green beans this way you will <span style="font-size: large;"><b>never go back</b></span> to your old way again! :)<br />
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The original recipe I found <a href="http://www.food.com/recipe/cracker-barrel-green-beans-78938" target="_blank">here</a> calls for <span style="font-size: large;"><b>bacon</b></span> that you fry first, then add the green beans. Well the story goes like this..... One day I wanted these green beans and I didn't have any bacon. I did however have the <span style="font-size: large;"><b>bacon bits</b></span> that are made with real bacon.... You know the ones you find in the salad topping section? So I used them instead. Honestly, I <b><span style="font-size: large;">like them better</span></b> with the bacon bits (as long as they are real! Don't get the fake ones!) I am not kidding, these are super good!! <br />
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<h2>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Cracker Barrel/Texas Roadhouse Green Beans Copy Cat</b></span></h2>
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<h3>
Ingredients</h3>
<ul>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">
2 cans green beans undrained</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">1/4 of a yellow onion chopped</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">1/3 cup real bacon pieces bacon bits</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">1 tsp sugar</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">1/2 tsp salt</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">1/2 tsp pepper</li>
</ul>
<div class="directions" style="margin-top: 10px;">
<h3>
Directions </h3>
<ol>
<li><span class="plaincharacterwrap break">
Mix all ingredients together in sauce pan. (This recipe is really flexible. You can add more bacon, seasonings onion etc.) Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and cover. Let simmer for 45 minutes. The simmering is what gives them such a good flavor!</span></li>
<li><span class="plaincharacterwrap break">Enjoy and serve! </span></li>
</ol>
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Linking up to:<br />
<a href="http://www.sew-much-ado.com/" target="_blank">Sew Much Ado </a>Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06645204545369641986noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2625419951930219915.post-49815454049774085392012-08-28T20:41:00.002-07:002012-08-29T12:39:13.209-07:00Crock Pot Salisbury Steak<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ST3aBPJqwO0/UD1oZrOj1vI/AAAAAAAAAlA/c9UOGl4BR-E/s1600/Salisbury.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ST3aBPJqwO0/UD1oZrOj1vI/AAAAAAAAAlA/c9UOGl4BR-E/s1600/Salisbury.jpg" height="386" width="640" /></a></div>
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Do you like <span style="font-size: large;"><b>Salisbury Steak?</b></span> If so, I think this could quickly become a <b><span style="font-size: large;">staple in your house,</span></b> and it couldn't be easier to make! I have tried a lot of different Salisbury steaks and this one is my favorite hands down!<br />
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Let me say it was a little difficult to get a "pretty" picture of this stuff. My<span style="font-size: large;"><b> handsome photographer</b></span> took this one. He can make even my ugliest food look pretty. :) Don't let this Salisbury's looks deceive you. It is so good in all of it's <span style="font-size: large;"><b>sloppy glory!</b></span> Oh and the green beans...... So dang good. I mean really really good. They are a <span style="font-size: large;"><b>Cracker Barrel/ Texas Roadhouse Copy Cat.</b></span> I mean they are really good. Click <span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://livegorgeously.blogspot.com/2012/08/cracker-barrel-texas-roadhouse-green.html" target="_blank">here</a></b></span> for the recipe.<br />
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Back to the <span style="font-size: large;"><b>Salisbury Steak.</b></span> What originally prompted me to try this recipe was that it was made in the Crock Pot. I love using my Crock Pot, anyway I have also made it in a skillet. It's really fast and easy. So do whichever one works better for you. They are both identical in taste and texture. I will give you both methods. <br />
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Also, I have been doing <span style="font-size: large;"><b>Freezer cooking</b></span>. Cooking for two means that sometimes we waste a lot of food. So I made this <span style="font-size: large;"><b>full recipe</b></span> and then I froze what we didn't eat. I have been obsessing over freezer cooking methods, thawing, and <span style="font-size: large;"><b>reheating techniques</b></span> because I don't want my food to taste "frozen". I like to send stuff like this in my <b><span style="font-size: large;">husband's lunches</span></b>. This is one of his favorites. <br />
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So here it is:<br />
<h2>
</h2>
<h2>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Crock Pot Salisbury Steak</b></span></h2>
Adapted from <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Slow-Cooker-Salisbury-Steak/Detail.aspx?ms=1&prop25=80079589&prop26=SlowCooker&prop27=2012-03-23&prop28=Main&prop29=Recipe&me=1" target="_blank">All Recipes</a><br />
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<div class="ingredients" style="margin-top: 10px;">
<h3>
Ingredients</h3>
<ul>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">
2 pounds lean ground beef</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">
1 (1 ounce) envelope dry onion soup mix</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">
1/2 cup plain bread crumbs</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">
1/4 cup milk</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient" style="font-family: inherit;">
1/4 cup all-purpose flour<a class="itxtrst itxtrsta itxthook" href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Slow-Cooker-Salisbury-Steak/Detail.aspx?ms=1&prop25=80079589&prop26=SlowCooker&prop27=2012-03-23&prop28=Main&prop29=Recipe&me=1#" id="itxthook0" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: 0px none ! important; color: #444444; font-size: 100%; font-weight: normal; padding-bottom: 1px; text-decoration: none ! important;"><span class="itxtrst itxtrstspan itxthookspan" id="itxthook0w0" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; font-size: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"></span></a></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">
2 tablespoons vegetable oil<a class="itxtrst itxtrsta itxthook" href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Slow-Cooker-Salisbury-Steak/Detail.aspx?ms=1&prop25=80079589&prop26=SlowCooker&prop27=2012-03-23&prop28=Main&prop29=Recipe&me=1#" id="itxthook1" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: 0px none ! important; color: #444444; font-size: 100%; font-weight: normal; padding-bottom: 1px; text-decoration: none ! important;"><span class="itxtrst itxtrstspan itxthookspan" id="itxthook1w0" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; font-size: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"></span></a></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">
2 (10.75 ounce) cans condensed cream of mushroom soup</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">
1 (1 ounce) packet brown gravy mix</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"> 3/4 cup beef broth</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">1-3 tablespoons Worcestershire </li>
</ul>
<div style="border-top: 1px #ccc dotted; margin-top: 20px; width: 300px;">
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<div class="directions" style="margin-top: 10px;">
<h3>
Directions for Crock Pot</h3>
<ol>
<li><span class="plaincharacterwrap break">
In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, onion
soup mix, bread crumbs, and milk using your hands. Shape into 8
patties.
</span></li>
<li><span class="plaincharacterwrap break">
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high
heat. Dredge the patties in flour just to coat, and quickly brown on
both sides in the hot skillet. (approximately 3 minutes per side) Place browned patties into the slow
cooker stacking alternately like a pyramid. </span></li>
<li><span class="plaincharacterwrap break">In a medium bowl, mix
together the cream of mushroom soup, brown gravy mix, beef broth, and however much Worcestershire sauce you want. (We like a lot! Make sure you taste.) Pour over the
meat. Cook on the Low setting for 4 or 5 hours, until ground beef is
well done.
</span></li>
</ol>
</div>
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<div class="directions" style="margin-top: 10px;">
<h3>
Directions for Skillet<br />
</h3>
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<ol>
<li><span class="plaincharacterwrap break">
In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, onion
soup mix, bread crumbs, and milk using your hands. Shape into 8
patties. </span></li>
<li><span class="plaincharacterwrap break">Meanwhile </span><span class="plaincharacterwrap break">In
a sauce pan, mix
together the cream of mushroom soup, brown gravy mix, beef broth, and
however much Worcestershire sauce you want. (We like a lot! Make sure you
taste.) Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally. (You are going to warm the gravy in a pan first so that you are not dumping cold gravy over the top of your hamburger patties.)</span><span class="plaincharacterwrap break"> </span></li>
<li><span class="plaincharacterwrap break"> Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high
heat. Dredge the patties in flour just to coat, and quickly brown on
both sides in the hot skillet. </span><span class="plaincharacterwrap break">(approximately 3 minutes per side)</span><span class="plaincharacterwrap break"> add <i>warm</i> gravy to skillet. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, until ground beef is well done. </span><h3>
</h3>
<h3>
Directions for Freezing</h3>
I freeze in ziploc bags. You can freeze for up to 3 months. For thawing.... put in the fridge the night before. I always try to thaw stuff in fridge. You can either reheat in oven or even in microwave, your gravy might be a little thick so just add some beef broth to it before reheating. <span class="plaincharacterwrap break"> Linked up to: </span><a href="http://www.sew-much-ado.com/" target="_blank">Sew Much Ado </a><span class="plaincharacterwrap break"> </span></li>
</ol>
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Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06645204545369641986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2625419951930219915.post-15912186056672125602012-07-23T20:30:00.000-07:002012-07-24T21:43:25.223-07:00Sea Glass Jar DIY<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EoGG7x6zYQM/UA3L03EloOI/AAAAAAAAAeQ/dnuEsakD8qE/s1600/sgtitle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EoGG7x6zYQM/UA3L03EloOI/AAAAAAAAAeQ/dnuEsakD8qE/s640/sgtitle.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I just <b><span style="font-size: large;">love</span></b> the way these <span style="font-size: large;"><b>jars</b></span> came out. I place them in my kitchen window, and let me say it makes doing all my dishes by hand a lot more <span style="font-size: large;"><b>enjoyable!</b></span> </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mvduXAAyZro/UA4H9TAW6II/AAAAAAAAAek/R-WzuHmxGkc/s1600/sg5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mvduXAAyZro/UA4H9TAW6II/AAAAAAAAAek/R-WzuHmxGkc/s640/sg5.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Aren't they <b><span style="font-size: large;">pretty</span></b>? I heart them.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nM5kVcQd62E/UA4T_1U7aLI/AAAAAAAAAfc/ENlt8zHEM2g/s1600/sg1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nM5kVcQd62E/UA4T_1U7aLI/AAAAAAAAAfc/ENlt8zHEM2g/s640/sg1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I have seen quite a few<span style="font-size: large;"><b> tutorials</b></span> on these aqua colored <span style="font-size: large;"><b>mason jars</b></span>. I chose to follow this tutorial because I wanted a true <span style="font-size: large;"><b>seaglass</b></span> (frosted) look. Also, I wanted to be able to fill them up with water so I could put <span style="font-size: large;"><b>pretty</b></span> flowers in them! This tutorial is so easy. This is all you need:</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3amW70Zp_6Q/UA4NH5fzjzI/AAAAAAAAAew/TG4u10F5ut8/s1600/IMG_0333.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="358" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3amW70Zp_6Q/UA4NH5fzjzI/AAAAAAAAAew/TG4u10F5ut8/s640/IMG_0333.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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That's right.</div>
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<b>-Glue (3 Tablespoons)</b></div>
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<b>-Dish Soap (1 drop)</b></div>
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<b>-Food Coloring (3 drops blue + 1 drop green)</b></div>
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<b>-Paint Brush</b></div>
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<b>-Jars of Your Choice (Got mine at Walmart, super cheap!)</b></div>
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Mix 2 parts glue with 1 part water. Which is <span style="font-size: large;"><b>homemade modpodge!!</b></span> Did you know this?? I did not until I did this tutorial. For these jars I used 3 tablespoons <span style="font-size: large;"><b>glue</b></span> and 1 1/2 tablespoons <span style="font-size: large;"><b>water</b></span>. Add your<b><span style="font-size: large;"> food coloring</span></b> drops plus 1 drop of <span style="font-size: large;"><b>dish soap</b></span>. This is important! It gave it just the right texture! Stir together until it looks like this:</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pAWDxsevLzI/UA4Q8Tq3bII/AAAAAAAAAfM/zC6RgG6K4FA/s1600/IMG_0336.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="358" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pAWDxsevLzI/UA4Q8Tq3bII/AAAAAAAAAfM/zC6RgG6K4FA/s640/IMG_0336.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Use your <b><span style="font-size: large;">paint brush</span></b> to paint one <b><span style="font-size: large;">LIGHT</span></b> coat on the jar. I tend to over-do things. (shocking I know) I tried this a few months ago and I went over and over it trying to make it look even <span style="font-size: large;"><b>smooth</b></span> and <span style="font-size: large;"><b>perfect</b></span>. They did not turn out well! Luckily you can get the<span style="font-size: large;"><b> food coloring</b></span> and glue right off with warm soapy water. I washed them and decided to give it another try! Do not put a thick coat on, do a <span style="font-size: large;"><b>very thin coat</b></span> and it will dry evenly I promise! All beautiful and <span style="font-size: large;"><b>frosty seaglass</b></span> like. While drying it will look like this:</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zhhP1UPQLMo/UA4RsJkJ_EI/AAAAAAAAAfU/FKGjBisv5uI/s1600/IMG_0335.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zhhP1UPQLMo/UA4RsJkJ_EI/AAAAAAAAAfU/FKGjBisv5uI/s640/IMG_0335.JPG" width="358" /></a></div>
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Don't worry and don't touch it! The streaks will fade, as long as you did one even light coat. Then you should have this! </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RKR7c_0VBgM/UA3MEldtmzI/AAAAAAAAAeY/Rxp9O2jM93k/s1600/IMG_0364.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RKR7c_0VBgM/UA3MEldtmzI/AAAAAAAAAeY/Rxp9O2jM93k/s640/IMG_0364.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Do this. Put them in your <span style="font-size: large;"><b>kitchen window.</b></span> (if you have one) If you don't put them in any <span style="font-size: large;"><b>window</b></span>. You will adore them.....seriously!<br />
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Linking up with these lovely parties:<br />
<a href="http://www.thegunnysack.com/" target="_blank">The Gunny Sack </a><br />
<a href="http://www.sew-much-ado.com/" target="_blank">Sew Much Ado </a><br />
<a href="http://uncommondesignsonline.com/" target="_blank">Uncommon Designs </a></div>Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06645204545369641986noreply@blogger.com37tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2625419951930219915.post-633289713230154322012-07-18T00:03:00.000-07:002012-07-24T21:44:08.687-07:00Painted Countertops Q&A<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fkHHTPIM3a4/UAZS79KxfWI/AAAAAAAAAdk/nMbNbZUH6Fk/s1600/P2131705.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fkHHTPIM3a4/UAZS79KxfWI/AAAAAAAAAdk/nMbNbZUH6Fk/s640/P2131705.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I wanted to answer some questions I have received in response to my <a href="http://livegorgeously.blogspot.com/2012/04/painted-granite-countertops-tutorial.html" target="_blank">Painted "Granite" Countertops</a> Post. I hope this information will be helpful to everybody! If you have any other questions please make sure to let me know!<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Are they durable?</span></b><br />
When I say they are as hard as a rock I mean they are as hard as a rock. The coat on top is equal to 50 coats of varnish. They are extremely durable! <br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Do they chip?</span></b><br />
Pretty sure the only way to chip them would be to use a hammer and a chizzle! They don't chip.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Is the product that you put on top safe?</b></span><br />
It is non-pouress hard as a rock like I said. It doesn't leak into your food, once it cures (for 72 hours) it is super hard. Also it is polyurthane...... which is what they use to seal Granite and Butcher Block and many other types of countertops! So those people that have Granite "sealed" countertops or a "sealed" butcher block countertop, or many other types of fabricated countertops have the same type of top coat as this method! P.S. I don't put raw/bare food on any countertop or surface besides a clean plate or cutting board.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Will it burn my countertop if I put a hot pan directly onto it?</span></b><br />
I don't know about this one. There again, I have never put a hot (like fresh off the stove hot) pot or pan on a bare countertop/ table in my life. I always use potholders. That's what they are there for. To protect valuable things. :) So I do not know if it would burn the countertop or not. On the Envirotek instructions it warns that placing a hot item directly onto the countertop can leave an impression. Like I said, I have never tested this to see if it was true or not. I don't need to, I just use potholders like I believe most people do!<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Do you have any tips on how to use the Envirotek? </span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Yes. First thing my husband and I did was by a simple blow torch ($10.00) and used that for any air bubbles that may happen during the process. Go over them super lightly with the heat and then as soon as they pop remove the heat. We only had two air bubbles. Secondly we bought foam brushes (the small craft kind) For if we had to lightly smooth it out or help it pour over the edges. We didn't have to do this much because it is self leveling. You want it to completely pour over your edges and onto the floor (where you have laid plastic) Once dry you will have hardened drips that you will sand off once cured. We didn't have too many of these!</span></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Is this process difficult to do?</span></b><br />
I think you will find that it is a little time consuming in between coats, but it is not difficult at all!<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">What brands of paint and glitter did you use?</span></b><br />
I posted a picture below of the accent paints I used. The paints were purchased at Home Depot and the glitter at Walmart. Yes, just regular craft glitter. I used Martha Stewart brand. The base coat of paint I used was actually the Disney Brand Paint at Home Depot and the color was Mouse Ears. The paint lady there told me it was their truest black.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MDODSulK0Rk/UAZZly4ooFI/AAAAAAAAAeA/u6QUGtVxDxg/s1600/Collage3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MDODSulK0Rk/UAZZly4ooFI/AAAAAAAAAeA/u6QUGtVxDxg/s640/Collage3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Via: <a href="http://www.homedepot.com/" target="_blank">Home Depot</a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>How did you paint your cabinets?</b></span><br />
I know I have been promising a tutorial of cabinets for a while now. We got so busy when we moved back to Idaho that I haven't painted our cabinets yet. I will tell you this, the only Primer I use on anything is Zinsser. We only used ultra smooth foam rollers (never brushes) and then for the top coat (I know it is wierd but I swear by it) we used Porch and Floor High Gloss paint. The OIL BASED kind. You will notice that it has Polyurethane right on the can! :) Painting the cabinets with oil base paint ensures absolute durabilty and such a professional glossy finish. They do not look "hand painted" at all! If you get anything on them the surface is so slick and smooth it will wipe right off! I had the porch and floor paint mixed at Home Depot in a Behr color called Moon Rise.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EIrA0A_nKdI/UAZSrNEfT7I/AAAAAAAAAdc/qjVw0EkB324/s1600/Collage2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EIrA0A_nKdI/UAZSrNEfT7I/AAAAAAAAAdc/qjVw0EkB324/s640/Collage2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Via: <a href="http://www.homedepot.com/" target="_blank">Home Depot</a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Has anybody else tried your tutorial on this?</span></b><br />
YES! Which makes me really excited! I have been notified by three different people that they did my tutorial and painted their countertops! I will try to gather some pics, I know that they are in love with the way they came out! Here is picture of General Spledour's painted countertop. (Which is where I got the idea from to do mine) Don't hers look awesome? <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BhrbAVvgw6A/UAZW1flpXFI/AAAAAAAAAd0/qdwhRE84PDc/s1600/192528952790437561_cUs1BBZw_f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BhrbAVvgw6A/UAZW1flpXFI/AAAAAAAAAd0/qdwhRE84PDc/s640/192528952790437561_cUs1BBZw_f.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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And here were mine after completion in case you missed the original post:<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mwL_-xeqTJY/UA9xPetjELI/AAAAAAAAAfo/gXRYD-NwH_0/s1600/Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mwL_-xeqTJY/UA9xPetjELI/AAAAAAAAAfo/gXRYD-NwH_0/s640/Collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Linked up to these lovely blog parties:<br />
<a href="http://www.sew-much-ado.com/" target="_blank">Sew Much Ado</a><br />
<a href="http://uncommondesignsonline.com/" target="_blank">Uncommon Designs </a>Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06645204545369641986noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2625419951930219915.post-87170353674733435002012-07-16T00:43:00.002-07:002012-07-24T21:44:26.277-07:00Beautiful Outdoor Area On A $100 Budget!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AisiiBkw53c/UAM6blGd2iI/AAAAAAAAAcU/686uQFAS6JU/s1600/62301_1534344612493_1651152855_1318511_6638390_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AisiiBkw53c/UAM6blGd2iI/AAAAAAAAAcU/686uQFAS6JU/s640/62301_1534344612493_1651152855_1318511_6638390_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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This is our <span style="font-size: large;"><b>patio area</b></span> I put together when we lived in Oregon! I was so happy with the way it came out. I truly believe that you don't have to sacrifice something that is gorgeous just to get something that is cheap. I am so passionate about being thrifty and frugal, but I never want myself or my home to look <span style="font-size: large;"><b>"thrifty" or "frugal"</b></span>. I spent about $15.00 on stuff I didn't have already. ($100.00 total on everything including the chandelier) I truly believe you can have the<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><b><span style="font-size: large;">best of both worlds</span>.</b> Hopefully this post will give you some guidelines on how I accomplished this when doing our <span style="font-size: large;"><b>Patio Makeover! </b></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">1)</span></b> <b><span style="font-size: large;">Lighting:</span></b></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iEtbFUEHIkA/UANA4Yf_clI/AAAAAAAAAcg/LoYNl_6v1Hk/s1600/63024_1534341652419_1651152855_1318505_6802260_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iEtbFUEHIkA/UANA4Yf_clI/AAAAAAAAAcg/LoYNl_6v1Hk/s640/63024_1534341652419_1651152855_1318505_6802260_n.jpg" width="464" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">I cannot express enough how important lighting is in a room. (outdoor room in this case) You can have gorgeous decor, colors and everything laid out just right, but if you don't have<b> <span style="font-size: large;">good lighting</span></b> it throws everything off. Whether the light fixture is ugly, or there is inadequate lighting; you just will not get good results if you do not have "good" lighting. I have seen people spend so much money re-doing a room and then leave a <b><span style="font-size: large;">20 year old ceiling fan</span></b> as the only lighting in a room. To me, when working on a make over, the first thing I consider is <b><span style="font-size: large;">"do I need to change the lighting?"</span></b> Having proper lighting in a room, or taking it one step further... having beautiful lighting in a room can change everything! </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">The chandelier I hung on my patio was actually one I had ordered for our wedding through <a href="http://www.koyalwholesale.com/pages-main-category-1114/index.html" target="_blank">Koyal Wholesale</a>. It was <span style="font-size: large;"><b>$60.00</b></span> full price, but since I had ordered a bunch of stuff </span></span>through them, I ended up getting quite the good discount. It <span style="font-size: large;"><b>plugs in to the wall</b></span> which is an awesome choice for outdoor dining because you generally don't want to hard wire anything in. There is another online website called <a href="http://www.shopwildthings.com/halichpela.html" target="_blank">Shop Wild Things</a>, that has awesome, cheap, <span style="font-size: large;"><b>plug in lights</b></span> as well. If you have kids and want to do something <span style="font-size: large;"><b>more casual</b></span> they have some great options for that as well. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>2) Color Scheme</b></span>: </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1ssiZJS0N0k/UAO6lJWlF_I/AAAAAAAAAdA/71yvlImdDm4/s1600/collage4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="374" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1ssiZJS0N0k/UAO6lJWlF_I/AAAAAAAAAdA/71yvlImdDm4/s640/collage4.jpg" width="640" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><b> </b><span style="font-size: small;">I won't get into <span style="font-size: large;"><b>color theory</b></span> because it would probably bore most of you to tears. (personally It really excites me, but I am weird ;) I love color!) But I will say this, given a choice between <b><span style="font-size: large;">monochromatic neutrals</span></b> or adding in splashes of color I will, more often than not, <span style="font-size: large;"><b>choose color</b></span>. I love using pink and blue/aqua together because they are on opposite sides of the <span style="font-size: large;"><b>color wheel</b></span>. (it really does make a difference!) If you want to go with a more monochromatic neutral color scheme than you must <span style="font-size: large;"><b>add texture</b></span>, lots and lots of texture, otherwise you will end up with a space that is really not visually appealing at all, it will just look boring. If you want to add in color you can never go wrong using<span style="font-size: large;"><b> fresh flowers</b></span>! I ended up getting these flowers and the vases for super cheap at our local Safeway. The vases are so pretty and I got them for<span style="font-size: large;"><b> $4.00 a piece</b></span>. Just in the floral dept. They were marked clear down!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">The runner I got at <span style="font-size: large;"><b>Big Lots</b></span>! and the wine glasses at <span style="font-size: large;"><b>Dollar Tree</b></span>. I know right? I love Dollar Tree! Click here to order them from <a href="http://www.dollartree.com/kitchen-tableware/drinkware/Drinkware/Famous-Maker-Cobalt-Blue-Wine-Glasses/213c264c377p307346/index.pro" target="_blank">Dollar Tree</a> online. Did you know you can order from Dollar Tree online? Well now you do!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>3) "Window" Treatments:</b></span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r-aUiazZ6gk/UAO8I130dhI/AAAAAAAAAdI/Q7748FZOonM/s1600/62523_1534347572567_1572756_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r-aUiazZ6gk/UAO8I130dhI/AAAAAAAAAdI/Q7748FZOonM/s640/62523_1534347572567_1572756_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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For this project I used <span style="font-size: large;"><b>Lill curtains</b></span> from <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/90111980/" target="_blank">Ikea</a> that I already had! They are <span style="font-size: large;"><b>$2.50 per panel</b></span>. You could not make them for that price! They are huge, and I also use them indoors behind floor to ceiling (96") curtains. They are so cheap. and actually surprisingly <span style="font-size: large;"><b>durable</b></span>. All we did with these Lill Curtains is hang them up with<span style="font-size: large;"><b> thumb tacks</b></span>. Then tied the middle into a knot. It instantly changed the look of our <span style="font-size: large;"><b>patio!</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>4) Candlelight</b></span>:<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1nxaCE0kpYw/UAO-CdlS9yI/AAAAAAAAAdQ/YJ1c_Wh5qEU/s1600/62301_1534344532491_5121777_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1nxaCE0kpYw/UAO-CdlS9yI/AAAAAAAAAdQ/YJ1c_Wh5qEU/s640/62301_1534344532491_5121777_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I think that typically when the average person tries to pull off the <span style="font-size: large;"><b>less is more</b></span> look, they end up with something that looks piddly (is that a word?) and <span style="font-size: large;"><b>sparse</b></span> and quite honestly bad. I want you to imagine what this table would look like with just three candles on it. It would not look as nice! Use all the candles that you have, you cannot go wrong with <span style="font-size: large;"><b>more candles</b></span>. If you are worried about things looking messy than do a straight line like I did here. But I am telling you Lots of candles = <b><span style="font-size: large;">Big impact!</span></b> Plus candles are so cheap. These votives in glass holders I also got at Big Lots for <span style="font-size: large;"><b>$6.00.</b></span></div>
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Here are my sources again:<br />
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Chandelier: <a href="http://www.koyalwholesale.com/pages-main-category-1114/index.html" target="_blank">Koyal Wholesale</a><br />
Vases and Flowers: <a href="http://www.safeway.com/IFL/Grocery/Home" target="_blank">Safeway</a><br />
Sheer panels: <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/90111980/" target="_blank">Ikea</a><br />
Runner and Votives: <a href="http://www.biglots.com/" target="_blank">Big Lots</a><br />
Wine Glasses: <a href="http://www.dollartree.com/kitchen-tableware/drinkware/Drinkware/Famous-Maker-Cobalt-Blue-Wine-Glasses/213c264c377p307346/index.pro" target="_blank">Dollar Tree</a><br />
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Now maybe you are looking to do something more family friendly or less romantic for your patio, I still believe that if you follow the basic design principals I have laid out you will be so pleased with the results!<br />
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Here's to Happy Outdoor Living!<br />
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P.S. The patio set I had got for $25.00 at Fred Meyer it was the floor model. It was 90% off!<br />
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Linking up at these awesome blog parties:<br />
<a href="http://www.thegunnysack.com/" target="_blank">The Gunny Sack </a><br />
<a href="http://diyshowoff.com/" target="_blank">DIY Showoff </a><br />
<a href="http://www.sew-much-ado.com/" target="_blank">Sew Much Ado </a><br />
<a href="http://uncommondesignsonline.com/" target="_blank">Uncommon Designs </a>Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06645204545369641986noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2625419951930219915.post-4015824366406889362012-07-13T02:07:00.002-07:002012-07-13T02:07:33.093-07:00Kitchen Redo Progress > Part 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I have said it a million times and I will say it again, go to <span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Habitat for Humanity Restore!!</i></b></span> Although.... if you live in the Boise area I sorta wanna hog our two local stores all to myself! My husband and I could spend hours and hours in there. Picked up this light at our local on for <span style="font-size: large;"><b>$6.00!</b></span> The fixture pictured on the right is called the Hundi Lantern from Pottery Barn. It retails for <b><span style="font-size: large;">$299.00!!</span></b> Yes, I know the one I purchased is brass, however, I will paint it! In order to save $294.00... I am game! Be watching for a tutorial! </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eq4FH4kpL6g/T__ONqL8PkI/AAAAAAAAAbY/b9plIwiYNX4/s1600/light.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="462" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eq4FH4kpL6g/T__ONqL8PkI/AAAAAAAAAbY/b9plIwiYNX4/s640/light.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Pictured above is where I will be hanging the fixture. It drives me crazy how the existing builder grade light is not centered, (not even close)... above the window. Well because my new <span style="font-size: large;"><b>$6.00 fixture</b></span> has a chain I will be able to mount it and then center it with a hook. And I am really happy about that!</div>
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This is the overall look I am going for above my sink, only with a "Hundi" style fixture instead. I think I will paint it <span style="font-size: large;"><b>chrome</b></span>, to go with the other fixture I talked about it <a href="http://livegorgeously.blogspot.com/2012/06/kitchen-redo-progress-part-1.html" target="_blank">Kitchen Redo Progress > Part 1</a>.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XgkwahsnovI/T__RX9iRv0I/AAAAAAAAAbk/ejPGgxp_fVA/s1600/69524387968001509_7PgzNOQU_f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XgkwahsnovI/T__RX9iRv0I/AAAAAAAAAbk/ejPGgxp_fVA/s640/69524387968001509_7PgzNOQU_f.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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Via: <a href="http://www.caitlincreer.com/2011/09/spring-lane-kitchen.html" target="_blank">Caitlin Creer</a></div>
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Here are some gorgeous kitchens with the "Hundi" style lantern in them. I am so excited about my awesome find! </div>
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3v67Dq4mst4/T__IlMVwNzI/AAAAAAAAAbM/zYwY9h90W6Y/s1600/Collage2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3v67Dq4mst4/T__IlMVwNzI/AAAAAAAAAbM/zYwY9h90W6Y/s640/Collage2.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Via: <a href="http://awelldressedhome.com/some-minor-changes-around-our-home/" target="_blank">1</a>, <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/43111/Classically-Modern-Kitchen-traditional-kitchen-boston" target="_blank">2</a>, <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/424409/Classic-and-glamorous-open-living--dining--and-kitchen---Rosedale-Ave-eclectic-kitchen-austin" target="_blank">3</a>, <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/296347/Globus-Builder-contemporary-kitchen-los-angeles" target="_blank">4</a></div>
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Have you been to a <b><span style="font-size: large;">Restore? </span></b></div>Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06645204545369641986noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2625419951930219915.post-28398533401987604512012-06-27T09:30:00.000-07:002012-06-27T12:05:24.823-07:00Kitchen Redo Progress > Part 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Ok so there actually is no progress. We have been so busy since moving here and had so many things going on we actually haven't really touched our kitchen. I have however, picked out paint colors, purchased a fridge from Craigslist, and also purchased a cabinet to make an island out of from Habitat for Humanity Restore. Have you ever been to a Restore??? Those stores are Legit!! Click <a href="http://www.habitat.org/cd/env/restoreUS.aspx" target="_blank">here</a> to find a location near you! We also put our washer and dryer in our kitchen. ....ughhh I hate it's current location.:( As soon as money and time allow I will be moving those to another place! Even if it is into the garage!</div>
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What you see in the above picture is all I have for counter top space and storage. Hence the reason my sweetie is building me an island, which we will do a tutorial of! Here is my list of all we would like to accomplish. I will cross things off as we get to them! Have you seen this done in other places in Blogland? It's kinda the cool thing for bloggers to do. These cool bloggers don't just put a Before and After in a "Reveal Post".....they actually chart their progress. I am just trying to be cool. Bear with me.....</div>
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<ul><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G4ndnXeqxEk/T-pWeCQ_LFI/AAAAAAAAAaA/iWS2D9F0pUs/s1600/4044246d-94ec-4d1d-93ec-5863d725b6b8_300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G4ndnXeqxEk/T-pWeCQ_LFI/AAAAAAAAAaA/iWS2D9F0pUs/s320/4044246d-94ec-4d1d-93ec-5863d725b6b8_300.jpg" width="320" /></a>
<li><strike>Purchase Fridge</strike></li>
<li>INSTALL A DISHWASHER. (Seriously. feel so spoiled. But I miss having a dishwasher!!)</li>
<li><strike>Make paint and color choices</strike>.</li>
<li>Paint cabinets and COUNTER-TOPS. (Like we did <a href="http://livegorgeously.blogspot.com/2012/04/painted-granite-countertops-tutorial.html" target="_blank">here</a>)</li>
<li><strike>Purchase used cabinet for to make island out of. </strike></li>
<li>Finish island, paint it, paint the counter-top for it. (Also, like we did <a href="http://livegorgeously.blogspot.com/2012/04/painted-granite-countertops-tutorial.html" target="_blank">here</a>) </li>
<li>Change out cabinet and drawer hardware. </li>
<li><strike>Purchase light fixture</strike>s --------------> </li>
<li>Install light fixtures.</li>
<li>Upgrade microwave and stove to stainless. (This will probably happen way later on.)</li>
<li>Upgrade flooring. </li>
<li>Make bar stool covers for chairs for island. </li>
<li>Relocate washer and dryer to free up some space and add more cabinet space and counter-top in their place. </li>
</ul>
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Of course you know me, I want to do everything for incredibly <b><i>cheap</i></b>. So needless to say that when I found <a href="http://www.homedepot.com/Lighting-Fans/Hampton-Bay/h_d1/N-5yc1vZp4Zbvn5Z12l4/R-202814833/h_d2/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10053&langId=-1&storeId=10051" target="_blank">this light fixture</a> (pictured above) for above my island for $69.00 at my local Home Depot, I was very very excited! You see on HomeDepot.com it is listed for $219.00...... however the manager at the Boise Home Depot said this particular fixture did not sell well in the Boise area, so they marked it way down. I love going and seeing that they still sell it online for so much and I got it for so inexpensive! <b><i>$150.00 off!</i></b><br />
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I leave you with some inspirational photos and what I would like to glean from them for my kitchen redo! </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zVRUKFiNO8g/T-peXcQSPBI/AAAAAAAAAaM/UoA8WKka6Ec/s1600/52565520620833176_Roy0XRDz_f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zVRUKFiNO8g/T-peXcQSPBI/AAAAAAAAAaM/UoA8WKka6Ec/s640/52565520620833176_Roy0XRDz_f.jpg" width="602" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/52846995597762870/" target="_blank">via</a></div>
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This picture is what originally inspired me to incorporate a black drum shade pendant into my kitchen. I also love the white covered chairs!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3rwivohr7Wo/T-phgfNkYHI/AAAAAAAAAaY/SYZh40LZ0D8/s1600/52846995597579582_iIicZsAv_f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="430" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3rwivohr7Wo/T-phgfNkYHI/AAAAAAAAAaY/SYZh40LZ0D8/s640/52846995597579582_iIicZsAv_f.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/476911/Transitional-Kitchen-contemporary-kitchen-dallas" target="_blank">via</a></div>
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I just love white cabinets with dark counter tops. They are my favorite. Notice the black drum shade pendant as well.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UTc8Gs7y-aw/T-pi1ttJ-jI/AAAAAAAAAag/zkP3LnmB0qY/s1600/475696289.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UTc8Gs7y-aw/T-pi1ttJ-jI/AAAAAAAAAag/zkP3LnmB0qY/s640/475696289.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.homes.com/listing/photo/111784245/339_N._Jackson_St_QUINCY_FL_32351" target="_blank">via</a></div>
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I know, I know it's not a kitchen. But I think the shade of blue/green that is on the walls is just perfect and this is what I chose for my walls.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-53i4oKwPMLo/T-plNk6FzBI/AAAAAAAAAas/F4m6d1OrD54/s1600/52846995596940825_AjyCMUEd_f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-53i4oKwPMLo/T-plNk6FzBI/AAAAAAAAAas/F4m6d1OrD54/s640/52846995596940825_AjyCMUEd_f.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.hgtv.com/designers-portfolio/room/romantic/kitchens/4841/index.html#//designers_all-christine-baumann" target="_blank">via</a></div>
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Adore that glittery backslash, I love glitter ok?! I also am really considering painting my island black like this with a white counter-top. Opposite of the back cabinets that have the white cabinets with the black counter-tops. Isn't it pretty??? I really really love the chandelier. Just being honest..... I would have a
chandelier in every room in my house, however, I live with this thing
called a man, and that would be really sad for him. So I try to add in
black. and not too much crystal.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NrHg1hSJ41I/T-pm6kWHCWI/AAAAAAAAAa0/sz74QnGTMW4/s1600/213639576043520683_fxYkDhw5_f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NrHg1hSJ41I/T-pm6kWHCWI/AAAAAAAAAa0/sz74QnGTMW4/s640/213639576043520683_fxYkDhw5_f.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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I may or may not be planning on painting my ceiling blue, along with my walls. ;) Now all I have to do is convince my husband that we need a colored ceiling. Shouldn't be hard at all!</div>
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So, to sum it up: black, white and aqua color scheme. Glittery backsplash, or glitter somewhere. Black pendant shade. I.cannot.wait.to.get it.done.<br />
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P.S. To all of you who have expressed concern... I am sorry for silence on here lately, my brother in law passed away four weeks ago, and it has been a really tough time for my family and I. I have been so busy moving my sister here I have not kept on posting as I would like. Thank you for the prayers and the sweet notes, that many of you have sent. <3</div>
</div>Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06645204545369641986noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2625419951930219915.post-32956961819099506172012-05-08T22:25:00.000-07:002012-05-08T22:25:36.356-07:00Mother's Day Printable Round Up!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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With Mother's Day coming up I wanted to do a Round Up of FREE Mother's Day Printables. I haven't chosen yet but I am going to print and frame one of these for my mom! I think they are all awesome! Here are the rules: Click on the "here" link below each picture to go directly to the Printable Creator's website. Please leave a comment for the lovely people who created these, join their blog, like them on Facebook etc etc. Don't just downloand and run :) We all love comments, and these Printables are seriously so cute!!<br />
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Here are a few, followed by a little Tribute to my Mom which I would love for you to read.<br />
Enjoy!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-98vXvzclgpI/T6YZduocZCI/AAAAAAAAAWg/D1RGSswxpoU/s1600/mom+printable+11x14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-98vXvzclgpI/T6YZduocZCI/AAAAAAAAAWg/D1RGSswxpoU/s640/mom+printable+11x14.jpg" width="499" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://holidaysnobs.blogspot.com/2011/04/mothers-day-free-printable.html" target="_blank">Here</a></div>
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From: <i>Holiday Snobs </i><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kA5v9fQIEao/T6n9ZkaViiI/AAAAAAAAAYI/0H33lcYbv2k/s1600/Hearts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kA5v9fQIEao/T6n9ZkaViiI/AAAAAAAAAYI/0H33lcYbv2k/s640/Hearts.jpg" width="512" /></a></div>
<a href="http://naptimedelights.blogspot.com/2012/04/mothers-day-free-printables.html" target="_blank">Here</a><br />
From:<i> Naptime Delights </i><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-usQcF6IIctI/T6YW-6K2WMI/AAAAAAAAAWQ/9IpuJBGEc8I/s1600/mother_preview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-usQcF6IIctI/T6YW-6K2WMI/AAAAAAAAAWQ/9IpuJBGEc8I/s640/mother_preview.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.ishouldbemoppingthefloor.com/2012/04/mothers-day-printables.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%253A+IShouldBeMoppingTheFloor+%2528i+should+be+mopping+the+floor%2529" target="_blank">Here</a> </div>
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From: <i>I Should be Mopping the Floor</i></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mG0tBDZGOb8/T6YXDOILALI/AAAAAAAAAWY/e546CBCMbEE/s1600/mothersdaysubwayart_preview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mG0tBDZGOb8/T6YXDOILALI/AAAAAAAAAWY/e546CBCMbEE/s640/mothersdaysubwayart_preview.jpg" width="512" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.ishouldbemoppingthefloor.com/2012/04/mothers-day-printables.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%253A+IShouldBeMoppingTheFloor+%2528i+should+be+mopping+the+floor%2529" target="_blank">Here</a> </div>
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From: <i>I Should be Mopping the Floor</i><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4mP6R0kx32o/T6YbYOnOMiI/AAAAAAAAAWw/ooyt9cD0Qy4/s1600/mothersubwaypinkimage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4mP6R0kx32o/T6YbYOnOMiI/AAAAAAAAAWw/ooyt9cD0Qy4/s640/mothersubwaypinkimage.jpg" width="510" /></a></div>
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<i> </i><a href="http://lovelyliving.com.au/family/printables/mothers-day/mothers-day-printable-subway-art-for-mum" target="_blank">Here</a></div>
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From: <i>Lovely Living</i><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ft3KcnJYBso/T6YclS73xFI/AAAAAAAAAW4/0Iyrw3lI7pI/s1600/mothersdaycardsample.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ft3KcnJYBso/T6YclS73xFI/AAAAAAAAAW4/0Iyrw3lI7pI/s640/mothersdaycardsample.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://aproffittablelife.blogspot.com/2011/04/mothers-day-free-printable-poster-card.html" target="_blank">Here</a></div>
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From:<i> A Profitable Life</i><br />
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Here is my mom:<i> </i><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U31lnzTwNQg/T6meh2V7ejI/AAAAAAAAAX8/NilT-pvtZQM/s1600/402827_2880816353445_1651152855_2656234_448950119_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="538" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U31lnzTwNQg/T6meh2V7ejI/AAAAAAAAAX8/NilT-pvtZQM/s640/402827_2880816353445_1651152855_2656234_448950119_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i> </i> Isn't she beautiful?! I can't look at this picture for too long, otherwise it makes me
cry. It means that much to me. It was taken when I moved my mom down to
live with me a few years before my husband and I got married. I was
single and lived by myself, and then she moved in with me for a while.
I will cherish those memories forever.<br />
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My mom and I are alike in
so many ways. We have a ball together.We are both equally obsessed with
pretty houses and decorating. We would work on projects together and
have so much fun. My mom makes me laugh so hard I cry. When she lived with me, she did my
dishes while I was out with my friends or living my young single life.
I miss that ;) She always has music playing and is singing or dancing around the kitchen. She is such a morning person. (I
am not) She is so happy to be alive in the morning. (One way, we are
not alike) She wakes up in the best mood ever! Even before she has
coffee. I am envious.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jiUk0Ed8iJ4/T6mTOHoXnPI/AAAAAAAAAXk/QYBusVK7Jvg/s1600/mama.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jiUk0Ed8iJ4/T6mTOHoXnPI/AAAAAAAAAXk/QYBusVK7Jvg/s640/mama.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Here she is in the morning, in her robe. She hates the way she looks in this picture. I don't care. I love it. I think she looks like an angel. I LOVED that robe when I was little. She always let me play dress up in it. I would wear it outside, and she would help me tie it up with scrunchies. I can even remember the way the robe smelled :) Before I played with it of course! I wanted to smell exactly like my mom!<br />
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She is always happy, and encouraging. She
has faced very hard times, and you would never know it. I am not a
mother yet, but when I am, I hope to be just like my mom! You
see......probably everybody reading this will think I am exaggerating....
but it really is the truth, my mom never ever made my sisters or I feel
like an inconvenience. She wasn't ever grouchy. In fact, my sisters and I
have talked about this, we have tried to remember just one time where
my mom was grouchy with us or ever acted like she needed a break from us
(I am sure she did need a break quite often) but we can't remember a
single time. She truly is that kind of a person. She always was and
still is soooo supportive of anything I dreamed of, or anything I wanted to be.
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Yes.... we did get disciplined, but never out of anger. I can remember my first day
of kindergarten. She dropped me off. She told me to be nice to everybody
no matter what. If somebody was unkind to me then to be nice back. She
told me if I was rude back to any of the kids, I would be in trouble when
I got home. I remember thinking what an odd rule that was!! :) But as I
have grown older, I have realized that my mom truly lives that way.... she
is always kind, no matter what.</div>
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With that I say:</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Za242W3bF0Y/T6YeZf9KWOI/AAAAAAAAAXA/G-Zi6o5aLao/s1600/iloveumom5x7-1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Za242W3bF0Y/T6YeZf9KWOI/AAAAAAAAAXA/G-Zi6o5aLao/s640/iloveumom5x7-1.jpg" width="456" /></a> </div>
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<a href="http://thecreativecrate.blogspot.com/2011/05/last-minute-mothers-day-printableand.html" target="_blank">Here</a></div>
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From: <i>The Creative Crate</i></div>
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</div>Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06645204545369641986noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2625419951930219915.post-49409107712116879142012-05-04T10:56:00.002-07:002012-05-09T22:20:58.018-07:00Chicken w/ Italian Cheese Sauce & Bowties<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1ZhGaXnL32g/T6YFSW3rXxI/AAAAAAAAAWE/-S9xfhDtMbo/s1600/Chicken+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1ZhGaXnL32g/T6YFSW3rXxI/AAAAAAAAAWE/-S9xfhDtMbo/s640/Chicken+4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Oh yum. This was sooooo delicious. Made it last night and boy let me tell you, there is a reason why this recipe has been pinned on Pinterest thousands and thousands of times. The chicken is crispy on the outside moist on the inside and the sauce is to die for. Looks fancy, tastes fancy, but requires very few ingredients and is very simple to make. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Bq1cvLqGnlo/T6NfRHvlpmI/AAAAAAAAAVU/-oOqpedXiDg/s1600/Chicken+8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Bq1cvLqGnlo/T6NfRHvlpmI/AAAAAAAAAVU/-oOqpedXiDg/s640/Chicken+8.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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I know. It makes me hungry too. But we already ate all the leftovers so we are out of luck! </div>
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This, my friends, is the base ingredient for the sauce.... Ever tried it?? You should.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t9hg57TtFVM/T6NerYbZjgI/AAAAAAAAAVM/XpNDz_jI2vg/s1600/philadelphia-cooking-creme.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="290" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t9hg57TtFVM/T6NerYbZjgI/AAAAAAAAAVM/XpNDz_jI2vg/s400/philadelphia-cooking-creme.jpg" width="400" /></a> </div>
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Here is what you need :</div>
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<a href="https://sites.google.com/site/jamiecooksitupprintablerecipes/crispy-chicken-with-creamy-italian-sauce-and-bowtie-pasta"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></span></b></a><i><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></span></i><span style="font-size: small;">3 large chicken breasts</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">5 C corn flakes</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">3/4 C flour</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">1/2 t salt</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">1/2 C milk</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">6 T olive oil </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">1 12 oz package bowtie pasta</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Sauce: </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">1 10 oz container Philadelphia Cooking Cream (Italian Cheese and Herb Flavor)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">2 cans cream of chicken soup</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> 1 C chicken broth</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #444444; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1/2 C milk </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"></span><span style="font-size: small;">1. In a small food processor crush the corn flakes into
crumbs. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">2. Add the 1/2 t salt to the 3/4 C flour. Stir to
combine. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-size: small;">3. Place the flour, milk and crushed cornflakes each
into their own separate pan. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">4. Place your chicken breasts in a gallon sized Ziploc bag
and seal the top. Pound the chicken flat with a meat mallet. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">5. Take a pair of sharp kitchen scissors and cut each
breast in half. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">6. Dredge the chicken in the flour. Be sure it gets
covered on both sides. Lay the floured chicken onto a small cookie sheet and slide
the sheet into the freezer. (Do not skip this step) Leave in freezer for 5 minutes.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">7. Start cooking your pasta. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">8. Remove the chicken from the freezer and dredge each piece
in the milk...........and then immediately into the corn flake crumbs. Again,
be sure both sides are covered well. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">9. Add the olive oil to a hot skillet. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">10. Carefully lay each chicken piece into the hot oil.
Sprinkle with a little bit of salt and pepper. Cook over medium high heat for
about 5 minutes or until the underside of each piece is nice and
golden brown. Turn the pieces over.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> 11. Cover the pan and reduce the heat to
medium. Let the chicken cook for about 7 more minutes, being careful not
to burn the bottoms. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-size: small;">12. When your chicken has been cooked through remove it from
the pan and place it on a plate. Cover with tin foil. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-size: small;">13. Into the same pan pour your broth.Philly Cooking Creme, Cream of Chicken, </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-size: small;">and milk. Whisk the sauce around and let it get all warm and
bubbly. Should only take about 3 minutes. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">14. Slice your chicken into strips and serve over
your cooked pasta and sauce. </span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--z95ntcSHjs/T6NoCnfMx-I/AAAAAAAAAVo/1gOfaxQYrOw/s1600/Chicken+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--z95ntcSHjs/T6NoCnfMx-I/AAAAAAAAAVo/1gOfaxQYrOw/s640/Chicken+7.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #444444; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I got this recipe from <a href="http://jamiecooksitup.blogspot.com/2011/04/crispy-chicken-with-creamy-italian.html" target="_blank">Jamie Cooks It Up</a>. You should check her out :) With 72 comments saying this was "Heaven On a Plate" I am pretty sure you should make it!!</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #444444; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Enjoy!</span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #444444; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Linked up this recipe at these lovely blog parties!</span></span></span><br />
<a href="http://www.itsoverflowing.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #444444; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">It's Overflowing</span></span></span></a><br />
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #444444; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://iamaddictedtorecipes.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank">Addicted to Recipes </a></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #444444; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://cookingwithkaryn.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Cooking with Karyn </a></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #444444; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.sew-much-ado.com/" target="_blank">Sew Much Ado </a></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #444444; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.uncommondesignsonline.com/" target="_blank">Uncommon Designs </a></span></span></span><br />
<a href="http://www.houseofhepworths.com/" target="_blank">House of Hepworths </a><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #444444; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span></span></div>Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06645204545369641986noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2625419951930219915.post-77272725154382263242012-04-27T21:43:00.000-07:002012-05-07T12:56:34.030-07:00Oh So Delicious .....Eclair Cake!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a137wUcrZ8Y/T5ttw-yA0WI/AAAAAAAAATM/zjPdnVFiTZU/s1600/Eclair+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a137wUcrZ8Y/T5ttw-yA0WI/AAAAAAAAATM/zjPdnVFiTZU/s640/Eclair+1.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Five ingredients. That's all. This Eclair Cake is so lovely, and so so good. It's really light and heavenly. I made it for Easter a few weeks ago, took it to my sister-in-law's house and LITERALLY every man, woman and child loved this dessert. The men got huge plate fulls of it. The women loved it. The toddlers loved it. The older kids loved it. The Grandma's and Grandpa's loved it. Do you get the point? It is sooooooo delicious. I got asked for the recipe by everybody there, and was able to tell them off memory because it is truly that easy. If you want something that is so easy and that everybody in your family will love,</div>
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MAKE THIS!</div>
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Here's what you need:</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GcNjNXLEYFc/T5tuA1WQPoI/AAAAAAAAATU/io4XW_wbNNs/s1600/IMG_0223.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="358" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GcNjNXLEYFc/T5tuA1WQPoI/AAAAAAAAATU/io4XW_wbNNs/s640/IMG_0223.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Well, and milk to make the pudding. Shoot. Do I need to add a picture of milk? If you want to see a picture with milk in it, look at the picture above. The glass of milk by this <i>Oh So Delicious!</i> ECLAIR CAKE. Yes it is good. Ok.... Here's the recipe:</div>
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1 box graham crackers<br />
2 (3 1/4-ounce) boxes French vanilla instant pudding<br />
3 1/2 cups milk<br />
1 (8-ounce) container Cool Whip, thawed<br />
1 can chocolate frosting (I recommend Milk Chocolate)<br />
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(I have since made this for just my husband, and I just halved the recipe and made in a smaller pan.) <br />
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Spray the bottom of a 9x13 pan with cooking spray. Line the bottom of
the pan with whole graham crackers. (You may have to break some to completely cover) In bowl of an electric mixer, mix
pudding with milk; beat at medium speed for 2 minutes. Fold in whipped
topping. Pour half the pudding mixture over graham crackers. Place
another layer of whole graham crackers on top of pudding layer. Pour
over remaining half of pudding mixture and cover with another layer of
graham crackers.<br />
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Heat the container of prepared frosting, uncovered in the microwave for 1
minute. Pour over the top of the cake. Refrigerate for at least 12
hours before serving.<br />
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Once you pull out of the fridge the next day, the graham crackers will be softened and that is what will form your crust. And here is what it will come out like...... and you will love it. xoxoxoxo<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rFkP8psqSyU/T5ttjFV_2KI/AAAAAAAAATE/qUgt02lOzg8/s1600/Eclair+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rFkP8psqSyU/T5ttjFV_2KI/AAAAAAAAATE/qUgt02lOzg8/s640/Eclair+3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I got the original idea for this recipe from <a href="http://www.plainchicken.com/" target="_blank">Plain Chicken</a></div>
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<br /></div>
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And linked up at these way cool parties!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://tatertotsandjello.com/" target="_blank">Tatertots and Jello </a><br />
<a href="http://www.itsoverflowing.com/" target="_blank">It's Overflowing </a><br />
<a href="http://iamaddictedtorecipes.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Addicted to Recipes </a><br />
<a href="http://womenlivingwell.org/" target="_blank">Women Living Well</a><br />
<a href="http://www.52mantels.com/" target="_blank">52 Mantels </a><br />
<a href="http://www.houseofhepworths.com/" target="_blank">House of Hepworths </a><br />
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #444444; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://cookingwithkaryn.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Cooking with Karyn </a></span></span></span></div>Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06645204545369641986noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2625419951930219915.post-1209509702258441232012-04-24T23:04:00.000-07:002012-05-08T23:05:53.309-07:00A Little Lacy Flower Pot<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LP6esw4V_as/T5d7Nl4yNBI/AAAAAAAAARI/X0gmMJH-PfI/s1600/lace3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LP6esw4V_as/T5d7Nl4yNBI/AAAAAAAAARI/X0gmMJH-PfI/s640/lace3.jpg" width="358" /></a></div>
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Orchids. They are my favorite flower. They are low maintenance and last forever, a lot longer than having fresh cuts in a vase. I love them so. I also love lace. I also love love love black and white color schemes. Hence came my idea for this "Little Lacy Flower Pot" It was so incredibly easy. My kind of DIY! Easy and inexpensive with an amazing end result. I am a little embarrassed to do a tutorial on this, it was that easy.</div>
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Here is what you do: </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ORGDzSa8whg/T5eMTktBHTI/AAAAAAAAARk/M02iOfm-reQ/s1600/IMG_0205.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ORGDzSa8whg/T5eMTktBHTI/AAAAAAAAARk/M02iOfm-reQ/s400/IMG_0205.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Buy a Terracotta Pot. Paint it. Love it. I got one with a plate underneath. I painted that too. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2UOB2k9Zkz8/T5eNi3Ik5ZI/AAAAAAAAAR8/p5Ms505SxUc/s1600/IMG_0214.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2UOB2k9Zkz8/T5eNi3Ik5ZI/AAAAAAAAAR8/p5Ms505SxUc/s400/IMG_0214.JPG" width="222" /></a></div>
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Place strip of lace around your painted pot, and attach with double sided tape. Trim off excess, and straighten the lace.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GXccJ1wJjew/T5d8In1y44I/AAAAAAAAARY/-6ihRwJ8QLY/s1600/lace4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GXccJ1wJjew/T5d8In1y44I/AAAAAAAAARY/-6ihRwJ8QLY/s640/lace4.jpg" width="358" /></a></div>
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Plant your flower of choice in the pot. I cheated and just set the orchid in it's existing pot down in there. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IDbaAZlyfyQ/T5eQYLFjBBI/AAAAAAAAASI/zfkvXeSlpFk/s1600/lace2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IDbaAZlyfyQ/T5eQYLFjBBI/AAAAAAAAASI/zfkvXeSlpFk/s640/lace2.jpg" width="358" /></a></div>
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Here is the finished product. In front of my wallpaper that came today. That I literally taped to the wall I was so excited. I have been staring at it all day. My lovely mama and I are going to put up the wallpaper tomorrow. </div>
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Back to the pot. Do it!! Flowers make rooms happy. They make us happy. I am so grateful that God made them for us to enjoy. </div>
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Thank you Lord for my pink orchids in my little lacy black and white flower pot.<br />
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I linked up this post with these awesome blog parties:<br />
<a href="http://www.uncommondesignsonline.com/" target="_blank">Uncommon Designs Online </a><br />
<a href="http://www.sew-much-ado.com/" target="_blank">Sew Much Ado </a><br />
<a href="http://www.houseofhepworths.com/" target="_blank">House of Hepworths </a><br />
<a href="http://www.52mantels.com/" target="_blank">52 Mantles </a><br />
<a href="http://tatertotsandjello.com/" target="_blank">Tatertots and Jello </a><br />
<a href="http://www.itsoverflowing.com/" target="_blank">It's Overflowing </a><br />
<a href="http://womenlivingwell.org/" target="_blank">Women Living Well</a><br />
<a href="http://www.thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Thrifty Decor Chick </a><br />
<a href="http://www.centsationalgirl.com/" target="_blank">Centsational Girl </a> </div>Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06645204545369641986noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2625419951930219915.post-22785204081156620142012-04-16T10:22:00.000-07:002012-05-07T12:56:49.578-07:00Dr Pepper BBQ Pork w/ Blue Cheese Coleslaw<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ekMOdg2mO7c/T4txv9SPBII/AAAAAAAAAN4/W2KAg1A7cq8/s1600/Pulled+Pork.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ekMOdg2mO7c/T4txv9SPBII/AAAAAAAAAN4/W2KAg1A7cq8/s640/Pulled+Pork.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Enough said. Actually, I haven't said anything yet... but really.... do I have to? If these are not the best pulled pork sandwiches you have ever had, I will give you $500.00. I actually won't. Already done too many giveaways for the size of my tiny blog :) Anyways, make these, eat them. The bbq pork is made in the slow cooker and is so so easy, the Dr Pepper (Don't be freaked out) acts as a tenderizer and gives such nice flavor, oh and the coleslaw.... How do I put this?? IT IS THE BEST COLESLAW YOU HAVE EVER HAD. EVER. My husband, who does not normally like coleslaw, will eat this by the bowl full. It is seriously that good. I started experimenting with blue cheese coleslaw recipes when we moved to Oregon. You see I used to eat this little cafe/coffee shop called Rembrandts in Eagle, ID. It's such a cute place in an old church building. I would go there for just the coleslaw. Well we have moved back to Idaho, sadly for Rembrandts, I will not be going back there for the coleslaw, I like my version better. My version has bacon, and it is wonderful. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Fd-dX1XXVWE/T4xb2c3WXtI/AAAAAAAAAPA/ci4umiauBNw/s1600/Coleslaw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Fd-dX1XXVWE/T4xb2c3WXtI/AAAAAAAAAPA/ci4umiauBNw/s640/Coleslaw.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Isn't she pretty?</div>
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Here is what you will need for the coleslaw:</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L8EE03TykPc/T4xlTQXzB1I/AAAAAAAAAPI/5FA6D2CUV4o/s1600/IMG_0203.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="358" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L8EE03TykPc/T4xlTQXzB1I/AAAAAAAAAPI/5FA6D2CUV4o/s640/IMG_0203.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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1 bag coleslaw mix</div>
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1/3 cup dried cranberries (don't leave out)</div>
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1/3 cup blue cheese crumbles</div>
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3/4 cup ranch</div>
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1/3 cup mayonnaise </div>
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<strike>9 pieces</strike> an undisclosed amount of bacon, crumbled </div>
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1. Cook your bacon. I bake mine in the oven. <a href="http://www.food.com/recipe/kittencals-method-for-oven-cooked-bacon-367843" target="_blank">Here</a> is a link. Perfect bacon every time.</div>
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2. Combine all other ingredients in bowl.</div>
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3. Crumble bacon. Add it, however much your heart desires. <3</div>
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4. Season with salt and pepper.</div>
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I like to make this a day ahead and put in refrigerator. It is the best coleslaw in the world. All ingredients are to taste. If you want it a little more blue-cheesy add more, etc. P.S. I hate blue cheese salad dressing. Do not add that. That stuff is gross. P.S.S. I am not a huge blue cheese lover. In this however, it is to die for!! I dare you to try this even if you do not like blue cheese and tell me you don't like it. It is soooooo good.</div>
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For the pulled pork:</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o90-g3IVfbk/T4vAfjv9peI/AAAAAAAAAOw/pI3HQvzkED0/s1600/IMG_0200.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="356" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o90-g3IVfbk/T4vAfjv9peI/AAAAAAAAAOw/pI3HQvzkED0/s640/IMG_0200.JPG" width="640" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">3 pound pork roast (Or Beef or Chicken) <span style="font-family: inherit;">(NOT FROZEN)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">2 T olive oil</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Montreal Steak Seasoning</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">3-4 Dr. Pepper or Coke </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">1 T Worcestershire</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">1 T Liquid Smoke</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">1/2 Onion (minced/finely chopped)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">1/2 Bell Pepper (minced/finely chopped)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">1 1/2 - 2 C Sweet Baby Rays BBQ Sauce</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">1. Season Pork Roast generously with
Montreal Steak Seasoning. Pat the seasoning into the roast with your
fingers. </span></div>
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Heat Olive Oil in skillet</span>.</div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">3. </span>Brown Roast on both sides, remove from skillet. </div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">4. Poke the Pork Roast with fork a few times and transfer it to a large crock pot. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">5. Pour the soda over the top of your meat. Add onion, bell pepper, liquid smoke, and Worcestershire. Cover and cook on low for 7 hours, or until the meat shreds nicely with a fork.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">6. Remove the roast from the pan, shred it all up. Drain the soda juices from the crockpot. Place the shredded roast back in the crockpot and add bbq sauce, cook for an additional hour. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">I serve mine on toasted buns. Put a little butter on your buns (that sounds funny) and put under broiler for 2-3 minutes. My husband says (this way, with the buttered buns) "brings it to the next level, and I give it 10 out of 5 stars :)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Q1mMSDMKsvEXNN03Cm5w2TphoHWAqyI895bA1X8o7Bk/edit" target="_blank">Printable Recipe </a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Enjoy!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">My models..... Do their little turn on the cat walk....</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RotkbqhrOqk/T4xun8B55uI/AAAAAAAAAPY/Nm5NL_WKVzc/s1600/Pulled+Pork3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RotkbqhrOqk/T4xun8B55uI/AAAAAAAAAPY/Nm5NL_WKVzc/s640/Pulled+Pork3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5y2r5DkIifs/T4twkDEiidI/AAAAAAAAANw/0FWo186g7gE/s1600/Pulled+pork+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5y2r5DkIifs/T4twkDEiidI/AAAAAAAAANw/0FWo186g7gE/s640/Pulled+pork+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Linked up at:<br />
<a href="http://iamaddictedtorecipes.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Addicted to Recipes</a><br />
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #444444; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://cookingwithkaryn.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Cooking with Karyn </a></span></span></span><br />
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Click <a href="http://livegorgeously.blogspot.com/p/awesome-blog-parties-i-link-up-with.html" target="_blank">here</a> to see some other awesome blog parties I link up with!Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06645204545369641986noreply@blogger.com49tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2625419951930219915.post-60588405865967509922012-04-14T12:18:00.001-07:002012-05-07T23:03:32.783-07:00Painted Thrift Store & Dollar Store Vases!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RUaAEVBTYvw/T4kHNb8iprI/AAAAAAAAAKw/EMYvBchhmnc/s1600/20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="358" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RUaAEVBTYvw/T4kHNb8iprI/AAAAAAAAAKw/EMYvBchhmnc/s640/20.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I am so excited to share this tutorial with you! I got the original idea <a href="http://poppytalk.blogspot.com/2010/03/weekend-project-bottle-painting.html" target="_blank">here</a>. It requires very few supplies and you will be so happy with the results! You basically just add paint and water to a vase and rotate/swirl to coat. By painting the inside of the vases the outside remains glassy and beautiful! </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rsVwQDj0QaI/T4kMlZtOvPI/AAAAAAAAALw/NM6Bmv6aLLs/s1600/24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rsVwQDj0QaI/T4kMlZtOvPI/AAAAAAAAALw/NM6Bmv6aLLs/s640/24.jpg" width="358" /> </a></div>
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Here is what you need to do this project:</div>
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<li>Vases </li>
<li>Paint </li>
<li>Water </li>
<li>Foam paintbrush </li>
<li>Coffee Filters</li>
<li>Sponge</li>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C4_SABUfJn8/T4kP-LIg0FI/AAAAAAAAAMA/kyqAq26RQ0w/s1600/25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C4_SABUfJn8/T4kP-LIg0FI/AAAAAAAAAMA/kyqAq26RQ0w/s640/25.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The paint samples I purchased were both Glidden... "Sweet Baby Girl" and "Almost Aqua". I then decided to use some leftover gray and white paint I already had. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Rb8Y_v_JCVI/T4kT7b2G8tI/AAAAAAAAAMY/beskMswghlQ/s1600/27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Rb8Y_v_JCVI/T4kT7b2G8tI/AAAAAAAAAMY/beskMswghlQ/s640/27.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Make sure your vases are clean, and then put about 1 tablespoon of paint in the bottom of the vase, then add a few drops of water. Just a tiny amount, otherwise the paint will run!</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Zv1w3hXpCTE/T4kWacDBqHI/AAAAAAAAAMo/DyXys4oFUy4/s1600/29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="356" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Zv1w3hXpCTE/T4kWacDBqHI/AAAAAAAAAMo/DyXys4oFUy4/s640/29.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Coat evenly by moving bottle. Twirl the paint around by turning the vase, use coffee filters to cover
the top with so that you don't get paint everywhere. Its ok if you get
paint on the outside of the vase! Just use a sponge to wipe off as you
go. Next place the vase face down on the coffee filters (they really
absorb a lot) A lot of paint will drip out the bottom. Leave for about 2 minutes face down, and then flip back over right side up.Use a foam paintbrush for touch ups. Let dry completely. I did two coats! You can't add water to these
vases after you paint them. (The orchid I used is silk) If you want something you can add real
flowers to, check out my lovely friends tutorial <a href="http://iwilljoy.blogspot.com/2012/03/diy-milk-glass-but-not.html" target="_blank">here</a>. She just simply painted the outside of her vases to look like milk glass!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uQYDIsuMqhM/T4kXEGZjmpI/AAAAAAAAAMw/NMBStUc6oxE/s1600/26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="372" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uQYDIsuMqhM/T4kXEGZjmpI/AAAAAAAAAMw/NMBStUc6oxE/s640/26.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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This will be their home on this shelf in my kitchen, when we are finished painting our counter-tops, like we did <a href="http://livegorgeously.blogspot.com/2012/04/painted-granite-countertops-tutorial.html" target="_blank">here</a> in our last house. I think I will add another shelf of them and do some more. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ipx97UaAQnU/T4m6XTNDaKI/AAAAAAAAANA/7ouectOmIoY/s1600/30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ipx97UaAQnU/T4m6XTNDaKI/AAAAAAAAANA/7ouectOmIoY/s640/30.jpg" width="422" /></a></div>
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For now, they are here on this table in my living room. What do you think?<br />
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I linked up this post with these lovely blog parties:<br />
<a href="http://tatertotsandjello.com/" target="_blank">Tater Tots and Jello </a><br />
<a href="http://www.itsoverflowing.com/" target="_blank">It's Overflowing </a></div>
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<a href="http://www.iheartnaptime.net/" target="_blank">I Heart Nap Time</a><br />
<a href="http://www.creatingreallyawesomefreethings.com/" target="_blank">C.R.A.F.T. </a></div>
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<a href="http://diyhshp.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">DIY Home Sweet Home</a></div>
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<a href="http://thegunnysack.com/" target="_blank">The Gunny Sack</a><br />
<a href="http://gritsandgiggles.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Grits and Giggles </a><br />
<a href="http://www.thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Thrifty Decor Chick </a> </div>Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06645204545369641986noreply@blogger.com51tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2625419951930219915.post-14803427734300507332012-04-09T22:23:00.000-07:002012-05-07T23:04:11.620-07:00No Sew Pillow Tutorial!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a8RIYLHGAyU/T4OjnUI8NmI/AAAAAAAAAJg/c8ah8YsBBdg/s640/1.jpg" width="640" /></div>
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Let me explain something to you.... THIS IS THE EASIEST DIY PROJECT YOU COULD EVER WORK ON. Seriously. So easy, so inexpensive, and you will be so pleased with the results. There is no sewing required, no real measuring either. You just simply cut, fold, tie, and tuck. Let's get started! <br />
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First, you want to select your fabric. I got mine at Walmart for $1.50 per yard. A pillow for around $1.50? Yes please. I chose a light weight almost sheer fabric. Which worked amazingly! I had originally got it to make a dress out of, but thought I had would give the tutorial I found <a href="http://go.tipjunkie.com/dc/893/organizeyourstuffnow.com/wordpress/?p=19110" target="_blank">here</a>, a try! Now that I know it's awesome I will go buy some different coordinating fabrics that actually match with my living room, and do some more! </div>
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Step 1) Cut your fabric and start the wrapping process! Your "measurements" are as follows: Your fabric should be 2 and 1/2 times as tall as your pillow and 3 times as wide. If you can wrap a present you can make this pillow. I am not even kidding, do it! You want to put your pillow in the middle after you cut the fabric and then fold over the pillow like below! (just like when you first start wrapping a present)</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EXB7T-zO8HQ/T4O3rcFuzrI/AAAAAAAAAJ4/FR3vHn8MO48/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EXB7T-zO8HQ/T4O3rcFuzrI/AAAAAAAAAJ4/FR3vHn8MO48/s640/3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Step 2) Fold the edges (like a present) </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tujdpYWCKOM/T4O3vWQVCXI/AAAAAAAAAKA/rYmJ7SS_8Eg/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="434" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tujdpYWCKOM/T4O3vWQVCXI/AAAAAAAAAKA/rYmJ7SS_8Eg/s640/4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Step 3) Fold the edges again over the top of your previous folds Til the ends get a little more pointy. Like this.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-neIZr9S9WWM/T4O3ySNVEEI/AAAAAAAAAKI/wzlDvVUn0hU/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="434" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-neIZr9S9WWM/T4O3ySNVEEI/AAAAAAAAAKI/wzlDvVUn0hU/s640/6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Step 4) Bring the edges up over the sides like this. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qBH1e55Y9ik/T4O32gOB45I/AAAAAAAAAKQ/EQJ3auPHbMw/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="434" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qBH1e55Y9ik/T4O32gOB45I/AAAAAAAAAKQ/EQJ3auPHbMw/s640/7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Step 5) Tie a knot. Just a simple knot.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6XVOEn2P2Wk/T4O36M58KPI/AAAAAAAAAKY/xl8Gk9MeT-M/s1600/8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="434" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6XVOEn2P2Wk/T4O36M58KPI/AAAAAAAAAKY/xl8Gk9MeT-M/s640/8.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Step 6) Tuck the tails of the knot underneath the knot. Sorry best way I can explain it. Til it looks like this... Tah dah!</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CEsqtDHq914/T4O3jmKYncI/AAAAAAAAAJw/_mADhoN_680/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CEsqtDHq914/T4O3jmKYncI/AAAAAAAAAJw/_mADhoN_680/s640/2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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You can also turn your pillow around if you don't want to see the knot, rosette like thing. P.S. That's what I did with the black and white striped pillow! </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lI93kMo1dMY/T4PA6fBF63I/AAAAAAAAAKg/ib_lkfLxG2g/s1600/9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lI93kMo1dMY/T4PA6fBF63I/AAAAAAAAAKg/ib_lkfLxG2g/s640/9.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Give it a try and send me a picture of the results. I promise you won't regret it! </div>
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Let me know if you have any questions! I love to hear from you!<br />
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Linked up this post with<br />
<a href="http://www.thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Thrifty Decor Chick </a><br />
Click <a href="http://livegorgeously.blogspot.com/p/awesome-blog-parties-i-link-up-with.html" target="_blank">here</a> to see some other awesome blog parties I link up with! </div>
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<span id="goog_1163068812"></span><span id="goog_1163068813"></span>Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06645204545369641986noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2625419951930219915.post-44435349069978111042012-04-06T02:00:00.000-07:002012-04-17T14:32:26.571-07:00Target Gift Card Giveaway!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Thank you everybody for participating. Rachel Habets is the winner! This giveaway is now closed! </div>
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I heart Target. I really really do. I mean.... who wouldn't? If you don't love it, get off my page. KIDDING KIDDING. Seriously though....how would you like a $25.00 gift card to Target? Ok, the rules are at the bottom of this post. In the mean time here are my picks of what I would choose from Target for $25.00 or less!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QnPmsHkVMCU/T36G8CqDXvI/AAAAAAAAAH4/xj0myecKnL8/s1600/13751324.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QnPmsHkVMCU/T36G8CqDXvI/AAAAAAAAAH4/xj0myecKnL8/s400/13751324.jpg" width="400" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QnPmsHkVMCU/T36G8CqDXvI/AAAAAAAAAH4/xj0myecKnL8/s1600/13751324.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div>
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A ruffly pillow! I LOVE ruffles. I have a few ruffly pillows and they make me happy. Ruffles = happy. <br />
Click <a href="http://www.target.com/p/Decorative-Ruffled-Flower-Faux-Silk-Accent-Pillow-Turquoise/-/A-13751324?reco=Rec%7Cpdp%7C13751324%7CClickCP%7Citem_page.adjacency&lnk=Rec%7Cpdp%7CClickCP%7Citem_page.adjacency" target="_blank">here</a> to see this teal ruffly pillow! ($24.99) </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-usZANKJ0we8/T36ImJFEtfI/AAAAAAAAAIA/LCELsV18BbI/s1600/13159103.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-usZANKJ0we8/T36ImJFEtfI/AAAAAAAAAIA/LCELsV18BbI/s400/13159103.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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A sunburst mirror! Are they a fad? Yes. Should every home have one? Yes. Click <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/52846995597577609/" target="_blank">here</a> to see a gorgeous bronze sunburst mirror in a living room.</div>
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Click <a href="http://www.target.com/p/Home-ORB-Sunburst-Metal-Mirror-23-23-x3-5/-/A-13159103?reco=Rec%7Cpdp%7C13159103%7CPurchaseCP%7Citem_page.generic_2&lnk=Rec%7Cpdp%7CPurchaseCP%7Citem_page.generic_2" target="_blank">here</a> to see the bronze sunburst mirror pictured above. ($24.19)</div>
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<img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lClTA0HMsRU/T36MIw9N67I/AAAAAAAAAIY/8lyPfdnNC0Q/s640/13565009.jpg" width="640" /></div>
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A maxi dress! They are so great on so many body types. Especially this empire waist style. For spring and summer, they are awesome! Do you agree? </div>
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To see this kimono sleeve maxi dress click <a href="http://www.target.com/p/Mossimo-Womens-Kimono-Sleeve-Maxi-Dress-Assorted-Colors/-/A-13565009" target="_blank">here</a> ($24.99)</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uwflhR5YNLE/T36fTUxnmcI/AAAAAAAAAJA/nFsLDb2DRd0/s1600/11876935.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uwflhR5YNLE/T36fTUxnmcI/AAAAAAAAAJA/nFsLDb2DRd0/s400/11876935.jpg" width="400" /></a> </div>
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A floppy hat! I don't know if you can tell, (wink wink, look at my welcome picture.) But I love floppy hats, they remind me of my honeymoon, and shopping at the Saturday Market in downtown Boise. </div>
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Click <a href="http://www.target.com/p/Merona-Wide-Brim-Floppy-Hat-Natural/-/A-13184070?reco=Rec%7Cpdp%7C13184070%7CMultiItemPersonalizedViewCP%7Citem_page.embedded&lnk=Rec%7Cpdp%7CMultiItemPersonalizedViewCP%7Citem_page.embedded" target="_blank">here</a> to see this cute little floppy hat. ($14.99 available in stores)</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Gaoii2kdgAw/T36Q3ETrtTI/AAAAAAAAAIw/DZsnSwa7ktQ/s1600/13528934.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Gaoii2kdgAw/T36Q3ETrtTI/AAAAAAAAAIw/DZsnSwa7ktQ/s400/13528934.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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A jewelry tree! I don't have one. I want one for my desk. Just to put a few necklaces on. Isn't this one cute? Click <a href="http://www.target.com/p/Jewelry-Tree-Display/-/A-13528934" target="_blank">here</a> to see this adorable little jewelry organizer. ($20.99)</div>
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Ok, so at 100 facebook "likes" we will do the drawing. Here are the rules!! Follow closely.You must do TWO things in order to be qualified. </div>
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1) Like the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/LiveGorgeously" target="_blank">Live Gorgeously Facebook page</a> </div>
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(if you do not have a facebook then you must be a blog member)</div>
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2) Leave a one word comment on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/LiveGorgeously" target="_blank">Live Gorgeously Facebook page</a>, or here on the blog letting me know what you want to see the most of on here. Here are your choices: </div>
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Decor </div>
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DIY</div>
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Fashion</div>
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Beauty </div>
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Recipes</div>
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Linking up at <a href="http://onechattychic.com/" target="_blank">One Chatty Chic</a></div>
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<br /></div>Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06645204545369641986noreply@blogger.com34tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2625419951930219915.post-64002926401187077612012-04-04T01:03:00.002-07:002012-07-18T08:56:56.051-07:00Painted "Granite" Countertops Tutorial<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B1BIS8jpmcs/T3uchfaA-LI/AAAAAAAAADw/OJ-Z5qoxYIc/s1600/P2131676.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B1BIS8jpmcs/T3uchfaA-LI/AAAAAAAAADw/OJ-Z5qoxYIc/s640/P2131676.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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First of all, welcome!! I am so excited to start this blog. I hope to be an inspiration and encouragement to all of my followers! (which at this point, would be <strike>zero</strike> four!.) :) By the end of today, I told my husband I would like to have 150 followers. Kidding Kidding! Sort of.... I am a wee bit of an over achiever... Anyway, my hope for this blog is that I will be able to teach people that you can look great and have a beautiful home without breaking the bank! </div>
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Enter our countertop transformation! We painted them to look like granite, and were THRILLED with how they came out! They are extremely durable, and beautiful, sparkly, shiny, reflective, and the best part... cheap! Total cost $150.00! I got my original idea <a href="http://generalsplendour.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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Here below is the "before"</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tcKRXZDVvPo/T3viTNUcCAI/AAAAAAAAAFI/9_a4XwrU1ec/s1600/before.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="456" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tcKRXZDVvPo/T3viTNUcCAI/AAAAAAAAAFI/9_a4XwrU1ec/s640/before.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Let me make a disclaimer and say that I wasn't fully planning on starting a blog and mainly just took a few pictures of the process for our family and close friends to see. However, we just moved back to Idaho and will be doing this technique in our new house (yes we love it that much) and I promise to take better pictures this time! Let's get started with what we have....</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LSvfr3SoKsA/T3vY26gIZII/AAAAAAAAAE4/HVT59MnaIQQ/s1600/P1311599.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LSvfr3SoKsA/T3vY26gIZII/AAAAAAAAAE4/HVT59MnaIQQ/s640/P1311599.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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First we painted our Cabinets. (more to come on that later) added hardware, and then primed the countertops with a gray primer. My hubby bought some MDF boards to use as the backsplash and we primed those at the same time.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gboPnmbuPCU/T3vmj_KA5KI/AAAAAAAAAFQ/QtrcvG-rvaM/s1600/806dd1df-1f50-4a54-8ba2-21779fedd880_400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gboPnmbuPCU/T3vmj_KA5KI/AAAAAAAAAFQ/QtrcvG-rvaM/s320/806dd1df-1f50-4a54-8ba2-21779fedd880_400.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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This is the primer we used. The greatest primer in the world. That I use on everything. No sanding required. <a href="http://www.homedepot.com/buy/paint/primers/cover-stain/1-gallon-white-primer-sealer-98105.html">http://www.homedepot.com/buy/paint/primers/cover-stain/1-gallon-white-primer-sealer-98105.html</a></div>
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Here is where I don't have a lot of pictures to show the process. :( What you want to do after your primer dries is paint your base color coat. (Which in our case was black) After that we used two accent colors, (gold and silver) which we sponge painted on. When you first sponge the silver and the gold over it will look so metallicy. (like above) It is very important that you then sponge back over that with the black paint (base paint), until you get the desired look you want to achieve!</div>
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Now you want to go over the sponge look with more of your base color until the (sponging) is much more subdued. Until you get this look:</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2VDuXDN6pvU/T3vAXDMNRRI/AAAAAAAAAEI/j0kNy4_c6Vc/s1600/P2021609.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2VDuXDN6pvU/T3vAXDMNRRI/AAAAAAAAAEI/j0kNy4_c6Vc/s640/P2021609.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Once DRY (this might not make sense) but trust me, you can put your glitter on. We used a black glitter for texture and a little silver glitter for sparkle. I love sparkle. If you put glitter on when the paint is wet, some of the glitter will "stand up" and then rise to the surface of the clear coat you put on top. Sprinkle glitter (just a little) once the paint is dry. Then you are ready for THE MOST IMPORTANT STEP. Please cover your cabinets in newspaper before doing this!</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7G1bL1SUxd4/T3v1gbjtXxI/AAAAAAAAAFw/gmAHl5fuQUU/s1600/02032EnvirotexLite.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7G1bL1SUxd4/T3v1gbjtXxI/AAAAAAAAAFw/gmAHl5fuQUU/s320/02032EnvirotexLite.jpg" width="207" /></a></div>
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This stuff will blow your mind. Knock your socks off. It is AMAZING. And the key/secret ingredient, and what sets this "system" apart from using one of the granite paint kits you can buy. I read a lot of reviews on those paint kits and a common theme was that through time peoples countertops would get soggy. Because of such a thin clear coat on top. Not this stuff. When it says it is equal to 50 coats of varnish it really is. It is self leveling and awesome. It will put a sheet of glass that is hard as a rock over the top of your countertops and make them as hard as granite! and as purdy. Follow the instructions on the box (or have your husband follow the instructions) It is imperative that you let the Envirotek cure for 72 hours. (That was the hardest part.) Then you are ready to enjoy your kitchen. Once cured it should look like this! </div>
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****UPDATE**** Please see the Q&A Post on this tutorial here: <a href="http://livegorgeously.blogspot.com/2012/07/painted-countertops-q.html" target="_blank">Painted Countertops Q&A</a> It will help answer a lot of the questions you may have!</div>
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Linked up with <a href="http://www.thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Thrifty Decor Chick </a><br />
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Click <a href="http://livegorgeously.blogspot.com/p/awesome-blog-parties-i-link-up-with.html" target="_blank">here</a> to see some other awesome blog parties I link up with! <br />
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</div>Ashleighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06645204545369641986noreply@blogger.com239