A. Age: 22, wont be 23 till december
B. Bed size: We all sleep in a queen. Me, jay, noah AND the dog. Its all good. Except, i could live without the dog at my feet.
C. Chore that you hate: Dishes. Hate hatehate. I have todothem by hand. Our dishwasher (the only oneive ever had!) crapped out after1 month of using it.
D. Dogs: One big ol dog: Sawyer.
E. Essential start to your day: waking up with noah next to me. So wonderful. Then coffee, immediately.
F. Favourite color: Dark purple, or teal.
G. Gold or Silver: Silver. But, my wedding ring/engagement ring are white gold.
H. Height: 5'6"
I. Instruments you play: used to play guitar and piano, now i dont remember a thing about them.
J. Job title: Mama.
K. Kids: noah! Just turned 2 last week.
L. Live: Long island
M. Mother's name: Lisa
N. Nicknames: Gumbea, babe, mama, moooommmmy, susti, sue.
O. Overnight hospital stays: giving birth to noah
P. Pet peeve: The sound of people crinkling plastic bags. Especially when im trying to sleep.
Q. Quote from a movie: "There is a fine line between coincidence and fate" -the mummy 2.
R. Right or left handed: Lefty!
S. Siblings: lil sister, 2.5 years younger than me.
T. Time you wake up: 7-730am
U. Underwear: thongs during the day, bikini type at night.
V. Vegetable you hate: Red onion
W. What makes you run late: my husband. He likes to take his time.
X. X-Rays you've had: None! Besides the regular dentist ones.
Y. Yummy food that you make: Roasted roots, eggplant parmesan. Soo good!
Z. Zoo animal: Elephants, pandas(?), tigers
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Living Simply Isn't Simple Sometimes
As you know, I kinda have a knack for donating things. I've donated probably 40% of my family's belongings within the 2 years. All of it being things we never used, given to us, passed down to us, or was just a compulsive purchase that we later regretted.
I've given my son's clothing away. Bags & Bags. To friends and strangers, anyone that needed some. Otherwise they would be just sitting in my attic right now.
Next week Lupus Foundation will be picking up 2 large bags of things. Some of it is mine, some is my sisters.
When they haul it away, my house feels lighter. Its hard to describe. Its a sense of everything having a place, and that place isnt stuffed in the back of a closet.
But, do you want to know something? I'm not sure if I'd call myself a minimalist anymore.
After buying this house, and painting it, and decorating it, I just cant seem to label myself something as extreme as "minimalist".
If you look around my house, you'll see couches, dvds galore, autumn decorations, lots of toys for my son, and more.
I think lately, you could say I'm just frugal, and realistic.
I know I don't need a closet and a dresser full of clothes. And I know I don't need several bath towels, lotions, hand soaps and perfumes.
I know some handmade soap, a good moisturizer, mascara and concealer is what it takes to make me feel pretty. I know a few rags, vinegar and Bon Ami is all I need to keep a clean house.
Maybe that's not what you would call normal, but that's who I am. And I'm still learning just who I am.
I've given my son's clothing away. Bags & Bags. To friends and strangers, anyone that needed some. Otherwise they would be just sitting in my attic right now.
Next week Lupus Foundation will be picking up 2 large bags of things. Some of it is mine, some is my sisters.
When they haul it away, my house feels lighter. Its hard to describe. Its a sense of everything having a place, and that place isnt stuffed in the back of a closet.
But, do you want to know something? I'm not sure if I'd call myself a minimalist anymore.
After buying this house, and painting it, and decorating it, I just cant seem to label myself something as extreme as "minimalist".
If you look around my house, you'll see couches, dvds galore, autumn decorations, lots of toys for my son, and more.
I think lately, you could say I'm just frugal, and realistic.
I know I don't need a closet and a dresser full of clothes. And I know I don't need several bath towels, lotions, hand soaps and perfumes.
I know some handmade soap, a good moisturizer, mascara and concealer is what it takes to make me feel pretty. I know a few rags, vinegar and Bon Ami is all I need to keep a clean house.
Maybe that's not what you would call normal, but that's who I am. And I'm still learning just who I am.
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
My all natural, simple, frugal hair and skin care methods.
If youre like me, you try to eat healthy and organic where it matters.
Meat, dairy, fruit.
But do you think about your beauty and haircare supplies?
A year ago I researched all natural, homemade ingredients that can be used for skin and hair care.
Thats when I found the 'Oil cleansing method' for your face, and the 'no 'poo' method for your hair.
While theres different variations of the two methods, they are both simple and easy to make.
You can find most of the ingredients in your kitchen!
And to be clear, this isnt some 'avocado and lime facemask' or 'mayo and eggwhites hair deep conditioner'.
This stuff actually replaces skin and hair care products, for good.
OCM face cleanser recipe:
First, you start with an empty bottle.
If you have:
Oily skin, fill it 1/4 of the way with extra virgin olive oil.
Normal skin, 1/2 with extra virgin olive oil.
Dry skin, 3/4 with extra virgin olive oil.
Next, fill the rest with castor oil.
You can tweak these amounts according to your skin type, and how it reacts with the mixture.
To 'wash' your face simply pour a quarter size amount into your palm and rub it onto your face using small circles. It may feel weird at first rubbing oil onto your face, but just wait, your skin will be glowing when youre finished.
Next, take a washcloth and wash it under hot water. Not scorching hot, but hot enough.
Wring it out and place it onto your face. This opens your pores and lets the oil do its job.
Wait 20 seconds, then wipe away the oil. You can wash the washcloth again and wipe some more if needed. Your face will look and BE more moisturized and cleansed immediately.
This works as an AMAZING makeup remover, for eyeliner, mascara... anything!
Do you remember in science class we learned like dissolves like?
The oils in the cleanser remove the excess oils on your face (and all dirt and impurities as well) without stripping your skin which most face washes do. Therefore you wont need to use moisturizer either! The olive oil is a natural moisturizer that is amazing for your skin.
Now, onto our next all natural beauty routine:
The 'no poo' method.
Have you heard about the chemicals in our shampoos, called sulfates, also known as SLS? These are known carcinogens, and used in detergents used to wash our clothes and dishes.
Why are we pouring these harmful chemicals onto our scalps?
There is an easy, natural way to avoid these chemicals, without spending big bucks on "organic" hair care products.
First, I'll start with the 'shampoo'.
Baking soda. Also known as Sodium bicarbonate, is an amazing powder with so many uses. In this case, were using it to clean our hair. (use one that is aluminum free!)
Baking soda has a high PH level, which opens the hair shaft to help clean away dirt and excess oils.
It does not strip the hair of its natural and healthy oils, unlike shampoo.
See, shampoo strips your hair of its healthy oils, thus your hair makes even MORE oil to replace what was taken. Conditioner is then used to coat the hair shaft with superficial oils to replace what the shampoo took. This causes hair to be oily, limp and weighed down, needing styling products to keep it looking nice.
With this new method, your hair will have a balance of how much oil to make, therefore making your scalp and locks very happy and beautiful.
I use about a tablespoon worth (i have short chin length hair, so use a bit more if your hair is longer)of baking soda. I make it into a paste in my hand and rub it directly onto my roots, and above my ears, where the sebum (oil) tends to be most. Scrub your scalp for a minute then thoroughly rinse.
You will notice it didnt suds up like shampoo, and thats OKAY. Dont fret, your hair is clean.
Now for the second part, the 'conditioner'.
Theres a few things you can use. I recommend either apple cider vinegar, lemon juice or green tea. These all have low PH levels which close the hair shaft.
Apple cider vinegar smells like, well, vinegar, but once you rinse it out of your hair, it doesnt smell anymore. This is probably the most popular one used.
Lemon juice is recommended mainly for blondes.
And green tea is my new favorite. It is known to help with hair growth, prevent hair loss, and it smells yummy.
The recipes:
Apple cider vinegar and lemon juice: 1 tbsp per 1 cup water.
Green tea: steep 1 tea bag in 2 cups of water. Make sure you let it cool!
You can pre make these solutions and store them in empty shampoo bottles to make things easier.
And you can also tweak these solutions to suit your hair type. Some people use very little ACV/lemon juice/green tea in the water.
It just takes some experimenting, and youll find what works best for your hair.
If you were using harsh shampoos and heavy conditioners previously, your hair make have whats called a 'transition period'. This can last froma few days to a few months. The more 'green' your haircare routine was, the less of a transition it will be for you.
This is a very frugal and natural way to take care of your skin and hair. Have fun!
If you have any questions, or if youre doing one of these methods, please leave a comment. I love feedback!
Meat, dairy, fruit.
But do you think about your beauty and haircare supplies?
A year ago I researched all natural, homemade ingredients that can be used for skin and hair care.
Thats when I found the 'Oil cleansing method' for your face, and the 'no 'poo' method for your hair.
While theres different variations of the two methods, they are both simple and easy to make.
You can find most of the ingredients in your kitchen!
And to be clear, this isnt some 'avocado and lime facemask' or 'mayo and eggwhites hair deep conditioner'.
This stuff actually replaces skin and hair care products, for good.
OCM face cleanser recipe:
First, you start with an empty bottle.
If you have:
Oily skin, fill it 1/4 of the way with extra virgin olive oil.
Normal skin, 1/2 with extra virgin olive oil.
Dry skin, 3/4 with extra virgin olive oil.
Next, fill the rest with castor oil.
You can tweak these amounts according to your skin type, and how it reacts with the mixture.
To 'wash' your face simply pour a quarter size amount into your palm and rub it onto your face using small circles. It may feel weird at first rubbing oil onto your face, but just wait, your skin will be glowing when youre finished.
Next, take a washcloth and wash it under hot water. Not scorching hot, but hot enough.
Wring it out and place it onto your face. This opens your pores and lets the oil do its job.
Wait 20 seconds, then wipe away the oil. You can wash the washcloth again and wipe some more if needed. Your face will look and BE more moisturized and cleansed immediately.
This works as an AMAZING makeup remover, for eyeliner, mascara... anything!
Do you remember in science class we learned like dissolves like?
The oils in the cleanser remove the excess oils on your face (and all dirt and impurities as well) without stripping your skin which most face washes do. Therefore you wont need to use moisturizer either! The olive oil is a natural moisturizer that is amazing for your skin.
Now, onto our next all natural beauty routine:
The 'no poo' method.
Have you heard about the chemicals in our shampoos, called sulfates, also known as SLS? These are known carcinogens, and used in detergents used to wash our clothes and dishes.
Why are we pouring these harmful chemicals onto our scalps?
There is an easy, natural way to avoid these chemicals, without spending big bucks on "organic" hair care products.
First, I'll start with the 'shampoo'.
Baking soda. Also known as Sodium bicarbonate, is an amazing powder with so many uses. In this case, were using it to clean our hair. (use one that is aluminum free!)
Baking soda has a high PH level, which opens the hair shaft to help clean away dirt and excess oils.
It does not strip the hair of its natural and healthy oils, unlike shampoo.
See, shampoo strips your hair of its healthy oils, thus your hair makes even MORE oil to replace what was taken. Conditioner is then used to coat the hair shaft with superficial oils to replace what the shampoo took. This causes hair to be oily, limp and weighed down, needing styling products to keep it looking nice.
With this new method, your hair will have a balance of how much oil to make, therefore making your scalp and locks very happy and beautiful.
I use about a tablespoon worth (i have short chin length hair, so use a bit more if your hair is longer)of baking soda. I make it into a paste in my hand and rub it directly onto my roots, and above my ears, where the sebum (oil) tends to be most. Scrub your scalp for a minute then thoroughly rinse.
You will notice it didnt suds up like shampoo, and thats OKAY. Dont fret, your hair is clean.
Now for the second part, the 'conditioner'.
Theres a few things you can use. I recommend either apple cider vinegar, lemon juice or green tea. These all have low PH levels which close the hair shaft.
Apple cider vinegar smells like, well, vinegar, but once you rinse it out of your hair, it doesnt smell anymore. This is probably the most popular one used.
Lemon juice is recommended mainly for blondes.
And green tea is my new favorite. It is known to help with hair growth, prevent hair loss, and it smells yummy.
The recipes:
Apple cider vinegar and lemon juice: 1 tbsp per 1 cup water.
Green tea: steep 1 tea bag in 2 cups of water. Make sure you let it cool!
You can pre make these solutions and store them in empty shampoo bottles to make things easier.
And you can also tweak these solutions to suit your hair type. Some people use very little ACV/lemon juice/green tea in the water.
It just takes some experimenting, and youll find what works best for your hair.
If you were using harsh shampoos and heavy conditioners previously, your hair make have whats called a 'transition period'. This can last froma few days to a few months. The more 'green' your haircare routine was, the less of a transition it will be for you.
This is a very frugal and natural way to take care of your skin and hair. Have fun!
If you have any questions, or if youre doing one of these methods, please leave a comment. I love feedback!
Saturday, August 27, 2011
Preparation for a Hurricane
Hurricane irene is crawling up the coast, claws digging away unmercilessly at homes and lives. Our town called for a mandatory evacuation 8am this morning. I packed diapers, wipes, favorite momentos; just in case our home gets blown to bits. We're bunkered down in Jay's father's basement. Beef jerkey, chips and pretzels in tow. Ive always preferred underground dwelling during big storms. Something about the muffled sounds of wind and rain; being hidden from the chaos happening out in the world. Predictions say this one is going to be a doozy; a first for the northeast. Hopefully our little home can brave the worst irene's got.
But us; weve got eachother, some dry clothes and a safe place to temporarily call home. Which really, are the things that matter most.
Good luck & stay safe.
Jackie
But us; weve got eachother, some dry clothes and a safe place to temporarily call home. Which really, are the things that matter most.
Good luck & stay safe.
Jackie
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Random Ramblings
Ive been thinking about what id like to do once my sister moves out of the 3rd bedroom. Were planning on making it an office-type space, where we can go on our laptop/ipad and where jay can play his xbox games. Im planning on just getting a big comfy chair to sit in, drink my tea and read. I was previously thinking about getting or building a little desk, but i figured that wouldnt be very comfortable and a chair would be better.
I also want to make a little fort in noahs room in the corner. I found some cute ideas on pinterest and cant wait to build it.
Im still trying to exercise more and eat better. Coffee is now just an occasional drink i have maybe twice a week, so that will help. Ive started making pancakes in the morming with fruit or yogurt mixed it for noah and i. Keeps me feeling fuller longer.
Noah finally loves the sprinkler. He was afraid of it at first, but now he runs through it and even picks it up and soaks jay and i, haha. His favorite thing is the water. Whether its the pool, a bucket of water, washing his hands or bath time.
Im also still trying to wean him from nursing so much. Ive definitely cut down on the morning sessions, but late afternoon is hard. Thats when im getting worn out and noah is pretty inconsolable if he wants something he cant have.
Well thats it i think. Its almost 11pm and i cant sleep so i figured id just blab on here and update everyone on the random things going on in my life haha. Have a great week!
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
My Favorite Household Cleaners
Today I made a schedule of what days to clean what in my house.
I think having it written down and organized will help me keep track of this house easier.
Today is: clean the rooms, mop, clean windows, and laundry.
I already did the laundry sunday.. so today is a pretty easy day.
Now onto my favorite household cleaners...
We purchased a Haan Steam Mop and it is AMAZING. No chemicals, completely sanitizes, dries in seconds, and is super easy to use. This replaced my Libman Mop (so gross, and doesnt clean at all!) and my Swiffer Mop (not cost effective, leaves chemicals, doesn't clean deeply enough). I was looking for something that didn't need replacement pads, worked without chemicals (uses just water!), and can also be used on upholstery and rugs. Ta Da! I Love this thing!
I also purchased the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser. This beauty takes the place of thousands of sticky rollers that don't even work well. How freakin annoying is it cleaning the couch with one of those? and they're like 3.99 a roller. The Pet Hair Eraser has 2 nozzles; one is a flexible rubber which is good for pet hair, and the other is a hard plastic, great for spilled cat litter or Goldfish Cracker crumbs {ahem..}.
These two things have made my life so much easier.
Now if you will excuse me, I will be scrubbing my kitchen floor grout because it is apparently supposed to be white.. not brown.
Sidenote: I was not paid to talk about the aforementioned cleaners. Bissell and Haan don't know me and my little ol' blog. Just sharing my 2 cents. :)
I think having it written down and organized will help me keep track of this house easier.
Today is: clean the rooms, mop, clean windows, and laundry.
I already did the laundry sunday.. so today is a pretty easy day.
Now onto my favorite household cleaners...
We purchased a Haan Steam Mop and it is AMAZING. No chemicals, completely sanitizes, dries in seconds, and is super easy to use. This replaced my Libman Mop (so gross, and doesnt clean at all!) and my Swiffer Mop (not cost effective, leaves chemicals, doesn't clean deeply enough). I was looking for something that didn't need replacement pads, worked without chemicals (uses just water!), and can also be used on upholstery and rugs. Ta Da! I Love this thing!
I also purchased the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser. This beauty takes the place of thousands of sticky rollers that don't even work well. How freakin annoying is it cleaning the couch with one of those? and they're like 3.99 a roller. The Pet Hair Eraser has 2 nozzles; one is a flexible rubber which is good for pet hair, and the other is a hard plastic, great for spilled cat litter or Goldfish Cracker crumbs {ahem..}.
These two things have made my life so much easier.
Now if you will excuse me, I will be scrubbing my kitchen floor grout because it is apparently supposed to be white.. not brown.
Sidenote: I was not paid to talk about the aforementioned cleaners. Bissell and Haan don't know me and my little ol' blog. Just sharing my 2 cents. :)
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
The Final Push
I've lost over 35 lbs since Noah was born.
At the most, I weighed 172 {when I was 9 months pregnant}.
After I had noah, I waited 2 weeks and weighed myself, I was down to 147.
After months of watching what I ate and breastfeeding, I am now down to 120.
The day Noah was born.. I weighed 172.. not sure what size pants I wore since I just wore stretchy shorts
2 Months later, at 147lbs, Size 8/9 Jeans, Medium Size Shirts
Lost some weight on weight watchers..Size 6 Jeans
halfway there! Size 5 Jeans {im in the middle with Noah}
Almost there! Size 2 Jeans {even though you cant see them ;)} Probably around 127lbs
Today- Size 0 Jeans, XS-Small Shirts
My goal is to get to 115.
I was 115 when I was dating Jay, and I love that weight. I feel good about myself, and the way my body looks at 115.
So now I'm going to challenge myself.
I'm giving myself 2 months to get down to 115.
I know its only 5 pounds, but I want to lose those pounds and stay there.. no more up and down yo-yo weight gain.
I'll share what works for me on here, and hopefully help someone else out there that needs to lose those last few pounds that just wont go away. Someone else who needs the final push.
At the most, I weighed 172 {when I was 9 months pregnant}.
After I had noah, I waited 2 weeks and weighed myself, I was down to 147.
After months of watching what I ate and breastfeeding, I am now down to 120.
My goal is to get to 115.
I was 115 when I was dating Jay, and I love that weight. I feel good about myself, and the way my body looks at 115.
So now I'm going to challenge myself.
I'm giving myself 2 months to get down to 115.
I know its only 5 pounds, but I want to lose those pounds and stay there.. no more up and down yo-yo weight gain.
I'll share what works for me on here, and hopefully help someone else out there that needs to lose those last few pounds that just wont go away. Someone else who needs the final push.
Friday, July 22, 2011
22 Months & Ready to Wean
Lately I've been feeling like nursing Noah is coming to an end.
He eats real food all day long, and drinks water from his sippy like a pro.
My goal was to at least get to a year, then it changed to 18 months.
And now that we're at 22 Months, I think its time to stop.
I'm tired of having these F-cups, and I'm just plain ol' tired from waking up several times a night to nurse him back to sleep.
I'm kinda sad this big part of our relationship is coming to an end.
Whenever he's hurt, he nurses.
Whenever hes cranky and NOTHING will console him, he nurses.
When its time for a nap, or bed, he nurses and is out within minutes.
What will I do when nursing isn't an option anymore?
This is just another sign of my baby becoming a little boy, and how fast time is flying by.
Any tips on weaning your toddler? Any advice will be greatly appreciated!
He eats real food all day long, and drinks water from his sippy like a pro.
My goal was to at least get to a year, then it changed to 18 months.
And now that we're at 22 Months, I think its time to stop.
I'm tired of having these F-cups, and I'm just plain ol' tired from waking up several times a night to nurse him back to sleep.
I'm kinda sad this big part of our relationship is coming to an end.
Whenever he's hurt, he nurses.
Whenever hes cranky and NOTHING will console him, he nurses.
When its time for a nap, or bed, he nurses and is out within minutes.
What will I do when nursing isn't an option anymore?
This is just another sign of my baby becoming a little boy, and how fast time is flying by.
Any tips on weaning your toddler? Any advice will be greatly appreciated!
Friday, July 15, 2011
My Best Friend
I want to be the smile
I want to see the change
I want to be your friend from the start and once it starts it never ends
I want to be your pal
I want to be around
I want to be a friend when you are down
I want to be the sunshine on your smiling face
I want to be the moon
No, I want to be the ocean
Where all we do is float under the sun on the rolling sea
Whoa, I want to be the sunshine,
No I want to be the moonshine
I want to be the nighttime lullaby when you are so afraid
I think I found a way, a way to break down all the walls
I think I found a way to say hello
I think I found a way
Without saying anything at all
1 2 3 4 Tell Me That You Love Me More
.Relaxing listening to the Adele Station on Pandora.
.Cuddling, looking at the scrapbook I made of Noah's life.
.Recuperating, I messed up my back painting Noah's room.
.Enjoying this wonderful weather.
& being thankful for this sweet angel I spend every moment with.
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Pamper
No, not the diapers.
Maggie at GussySews asked: "How do you pamper yourself?"
Hmm pamper. pam-per... myself? Haven't done that in oh... 22 months.
Does quickly painting my own nails before noah sees and tries to grab the bottle from me count?
Or running out to get a long overdue (9 months) haircut so my mullet {the hair dresser said it, not me!} can be controlled?
I think it's time Mommy starts to get a bit more Me Time.
Sure, being a Mom comes with a few different hats. I feed the child, change the child, entertain the child, protect the child, console the child, and so on.
But theres times I can sit and watch an episode or two of The Office on Netflix and kinda veg out while he's eating his Strawberry and playing with his "vroom-vrooms".
But to go out and actually Pamper myself? That sounds dreamy. Almost too self-indulgent. It's hard to even imagine what I'd do. Maybe get a pedicure? Grab a coffee with a friend and catch up? Is that what people do?
How do you pamper yourself? Please, let me know. Maybe we can go together sometime. Or are you in the same boat as me, finding it hard to fathom how to pamper one-self?
Maggie at GussySews asked: "How do you pamper yourself?"
Hmm pamper. pam-per... myself? Haven't done that in oh... 22 months.
Does quickly painting my own nails before noah sees and tries to grab the bottle from me count?
Or running out to get a long overdue (9 months) haircut so my mullet {the hair dresser said it, not me!} can be controlled?
I think it's time Mommy starts to get a bit more Me Time.
Sure, being a Mom comes with a few different hats. I feed the child, change the child, entertain the child, protect the child, console the child, and so on.
But theres times I can sit and watch an episode or two of The Office on Netflix and kinda veg out while he's eating his Strawberry and playing with his "vroom-vrooms".
But to go out and actually Pamper myself? That sounds dreamy. Almost too self-indulgent. It's hard to even imagine what I'd do. Maybe get a pedicure? Grab a coffee with a friend and catch up? Is that what people do?
How do you pamper yourself? Please, let me know. Maybe we can go together sometime. Or are you in the same boat as me, finding it hard to fathom how to pamper one-self?
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Hi, My name is Jackie, and I'm a landscaper.
Note: Due to unforeseen technical difficulties it seems the pictures aren't working. I will do a vlog tour soon :)
I'm sorry I haven't posted in a while.
I've been way too busy doing yard work.
But, to be honest, I kind of LOVE IT.
I love going outside while Noah's napping or when Jay's home and get dirty with my Hoe... and Shovel. ;)
I get a nice tan, a workout and visible progress each time I go out. Who wouldn't love that?!
Ive been digging up old bricks that were supposed to line the garden beds, but went about 3 feet too far out and were 2" beneath the grass, and moved them to where they should be.
I weeded the gardens, put down new soil, chopped up some saplings that were choking my About Face rose bush. I also raked out old leaves and twigs from the whole east fence. And helped the hubs cut down some low lying branches on the blackberry tree out front.
Boy, oh boy. No wonder I've been losing some weight while eating Sonic and Ice Cream all too often.
This is the west garden bed, as you ca see in the next picture, the bricks were so far out.
The east garden bed, had to round the border a bit since there are some shallow roots from the bush. I may go back and move the line of bricks out further.
This is the blackberry tree and the birch tree. Jay had to cut so many branches out that were practically laying on the ground. The birch is kind of surrounded by the blackberry tree, but were going to cut down some more branches to let it breathe soon.
My AWESOME teal door, and the brand new mailbox, house number and light fixture. So cute!
And my little curious cutie wondering what Mama is doing outside. :)
I'll take some pictures of the backyard and inside the house soon!
I'm sorry I haven't posted in a while.
I've been way too busy doing yard work.
But, to be honest, I kind of LOVE IT.
I love going outside while Noah's napping or when Jay's home and get dirty with my Hoe... and Shovel. ;)
I get a nice tan, a workout and visible progress each time I go out. Who wouldn't love that?!
Ive been digging up old bricks that were supposed to line the garden beds, but went about 3 feet too far out and were 2" beneath the grass, and moved them to where they should be.
I weeded the gardens, put down new soil, chopped up some saplings that were choking my About Face rose bush. I also raked out old leaves and twigs from the whole east fence. And helped the hubs cut down some low lying branches on the blackberry tree out front.
Boy, oh boy. No wonder I've been losing some weight while eating Sonic and Ice Cream all too often.
This is the west garden bed, as you ca see in the next picture, the bricks were so far out.
The east garden bed, had to round the border a bit since there are some shallow roots from the bush. I may go back and move the line of bricks out further.
This is the blackberry tree and the birch tree. Jay had to cut so many branches out that were practically laying on the ground. The birch is kind of surrounded by the blackberry tree, but were going to cut down some more branches to let it breathe soon.
My AWESOME teal door, and the brand new mailbox, house number and light fixture. So cute!
And my little curious cutie wondering what Mama is doing outside. :)
I'll take some pictures of the backyard and inside the house soon!
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
The one where I rant about my Mother: Part 2
Its been a few days since my mom left her dogs here and fell off the face of the earth. If you didn't read that post, I encourage you to go back and read it. You'll probably be completely confused if you don't.
As you can see in the little update, one of the dogs bit Noah's face. It wasn't that bad of a bite, but it could have been so much worse. I'm just thankful he didn't get Noah's eye {but came pretty close} and I was right there so scoop him up and away from the dog right away.
I called mom, and texted her "EMERGENCY CALL RIGHT NOW.. NOT A JOKE!". She didn't respond or call.
So I looked up her husband's number online and left him a message hoping either she would hear it or he would get in touch with her.
I tried calling Mom once more from a blocked number and she answered.
Noah was still crying when I told her he got bit. She sat on the line for maybe 20 seconds just listening to him cry. When I asked where she was she told me Center Moriches, a few towns away.
I asked why she was there and she said {use an 'uh, DUH!' tone}"UHH to figure out the DRAMATIC situation I'm currently in..."
I told her to come pick up the dogs right away and she told me she couldn't. So I called her selfish. She then said {use a bitchy, 'I don't have time for this' tone} "oookay, I'm going to call you later..." and hung up on me.
The next day she texted me saying she was coming to get the dogs. So I put them outside with their things and someone pulls up in front of our house. It wasn't my mom; of COURSE not! Her friend came instead to get them. I guess Mom didn't want to hear what I thought of her fun surprise.
Today, I heard her friend listened to all of the angry voicemails I had left for my mom the day she left the dogs here. Then deleted them.
I kind of wish people would mind their own business and keep what's private, between mother and daughter, private.
I haven't heard from my mom in a few days. Last I heard, The Douche kicked the dogs out so now mom's sleeping in her car with the dogs.
Maybe if she had asked me to take the dogs in the first place things would have been different.
Hopefully this is the end to all of this drama. But I won't hold my breath.
Thank you for your encouraging, and sometimes hilarious comments. I really appreciate them!
As you can see in the little update, one of the dogs bit Noah's face. It wasn't that bad of a bite, but it could have been so much worse. I'm just thankful he didn't get Noah's eye {but came pretty close} and I was right there so scoop him up and away from the dog right away.
I called mom, and texted her "EMERGENCY CALL RIGHT NOW.. NOT A JOKE!". She didn't respond or call.
So I looked up her husband's number online and left him a message hoping either she would hear it or he would get in touch with her.
I tried calling Mom once more from a blocked number and she answered.
Noah was still crying when I told her he got bit. She sat on the line for maybe 20 seconds just listening to him cry. When I asked where she was she told me Center Moriches, a few towns away.
I asked why she was there and she said {use an 'uh, DUH!' tone}"UHH to figure out the DRAMATIC situation I'm currently in..."
I told her to come pick up the dogs right away and she told me she couldn't. So I called her selfish. She then said {use a bitchy, 'I don't have time for this' tone} "oookay, I'm going to call you later..." and hung up on me.
The next day she texted me saying she was coming to get the dogs. So I put them outside with their things and someone pulls up in front of our house. It wasn't my mom; of COURSE not! Her friend came instead to get them. I guess Mom didn't want to hear what I thought of her fun surprise.
Today, I heard her friend listened to all of the angry voicemails I had left for my mom the day she left the dogs here. Then deleted them.
I kind of wish people would mind their own business and keep what's private, between mother and daughter, private.
I haven't heard from my mom in a few days. Last I heard, The Douche kicked the dogs out so now mom's sleeping in her car with the dogs.
Maybe if she had asked me to take the dogs in the first place things would have been different.
Hopefully this is the end to all of this drama. But I won't hold my breath.
Thank you for your encouraging, and sometimes hilarious comments. I really appreciate them!
Saturday, June 18, 2011
The one where I rant about my Mother.
Starting on a happy note: It was GORGEOUS out today!
Jay went surfing super early and got back about an hour after noah and I woke up. We got ready and went out to breakfast with Jay's cousin and wife.
Noah was pointing at the little baby there saying "beyy-bee" and pointing to himself saying "MEH! MEH!" Love it!
After breakfast we stopped at the bank and deposited Jay's check and some cash. When I got back in the car he told me to read my texts from my mom. I could tell by the way he said it that it wasn't good news.
It read "You were out..I left the dogs in your backyard..I had no alternative.. I can't leave them at home.. I don't trust them.. they'll just let them out and leave the gates open and let them run away..you'll probably never forgive me for this..but this I will have to live with.."
RAGE.
RAGE.
R.A.G.E.
She didn't even ask me; or wait till I was home to drop them off.
We got home and there they were. Two little shih tzus sitting in our backyard, panting from the 80* weather we had today.
Does she not know I have a toddler and a full sized I-will-eat-those-dogs-for-a-snack-and-look-for-something-else-thats-not-edible-like charcoal or diapers-to-eat-again dog???
How dare she not ask me if she could leave them here.
Heres a little backstory... Her new husband? A total douche. {sorry nana if youre reading this, but it's true.} and my mom? Total PSYCHO. {also true nana}. put the two of them together and you get a whole messy sticky shitty situation that no one.. not even my mom apparently.. can handle.
So today, my mom decides to leave the Douche. Well thats all fine and dandydoodles until we get hit with the shit from the shit storm she blew up 30 miles away back home.
I can understand if this was a physically abusive relationship and she needed to get the hell out of there pronto. but this isnt that situation. this is my mom needing some time to herself to be miss drama queen and eff up everyone elses weekend.
This past week my sister and her boyfriend watched the dogs for 3 days while mom was supposed to be at a hotel so she could get away from her husband. but instead? she got a facial. microdermabrasion. yay. for. you.
Then when nighttime rolled around, she crawled right back into bed with her husband.
So my question is: Why? Why must we have these dogs in our backyard, in our home fighting with my dog when all she wants to do is have some free time to go get facial and have lunches with friends?
Is it that hard to ask me if its okay to watch them for a day or two? She can't be mature enough to actually ask me?
She won't answer my calls or texts. Or anyone's calls from our family really. Our relationship was just hanging on by a thread. Bitch went and snipped that shit up today all by herself.
UPDATE: One of the dogs just bit Noah's face, right below his eye, completely unprovoked. I called my mom and she actually answered (I did *67.. probably the only reason she answered) and she didn't care noah got bit. and hung up on me.
People, speak up. What do you have to say about this? Do you feel what she did was not bad? Talk to me!
Jay went surfing super early and got back about an hour after noah and I woke up. We got ready and went out to breakfast with Jay's cousin and wife.
Noah was pointing at the little baby there saying "beyy-bee" and pointing to himself saying "MEH! MEH!" Love it!
After breakfast we stopped at the bank and deposited Jay's check and some cash. When I got back in the car he told me to read my texts from my mom. I could tell by the way he said it that it wasn't good news.
It read "You were out..I left the dogs in your backyard..I had no alternative.. I can't leave them at home.. I don't trust them.. they'll just let them out and leave the gates open and let them run away..you'll probably never forgive me for this..but this I will have to live with.."
RAGE.
RAGE.
R.A.G.E.
She didn't even ask me; or wait till I was home to drop them off.
We got home and there they were. Two little shih tzus sitting in our backyard, panting from the 80* weather we had today.
Does she not know I have a toddler and a full sized I-will-eat-those-dogs-for-a-snack-and-look-for-something-else-thats-not-edible
How dare she not ask me if she could leave them here.
Heres a little backstory... Her new husband? A total douche. {sorry nana if youre reading this, but it's true.} and my mom? Total PSYCHO. {also true nana}. put the two of them together and you get a whole messy sticky shitty situation that no one.. not even my mom apparently.. can handle.
So today, my mom decides to leave the Douche. Well thats all fine and dandydoodles until we get hit with the shit from the shit storm she blew up 30 miles away back home.
I can understand if this was a physically abusive relationship and she needed to get the hell out of there pronto. but this isnt that situation. this is my mom needing some time to herself to be miss drama queen and eff up everyone elses weekend.
This past week my sister and her boyfriend watched the dogs for 3 days while mom was supposed to be at a hotel so she could get away from her husband. but instead? she got a facial. microdermabrasion. yay. for. you.
Then when nighttime rolled around, she crawled right back into bed with her husband.
So my question is: Why? Why must we have these dogs in our backyard, in our home fighting with my dog when all she wants to do is have some free time to go get facial and have lunches with friends?
Is it that hard to ask me if its okay to watch them for a day or two? She can't be mature enough to actually ask me?
She won't answer my calls or texts. Or anyone's calls from our family really. Our relationship was just hanging on by a thread. Bitch went and snipped that shit up today all by herself.
UPDATE: One of the dogs just bit Noah's face, right below his eye, completely unprovoked. I called my mom and she actually answered (I did *67.. probably the only reason she answered) and she didn't care noah got bit. and hung up on me.
People, speak up. What do you have to say about this? Do you feel what she did was not bad? Talk to me!
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Purgeday Thursday: Moved in, Renovating and feeling good!
In the past 2 weeks since we moved into our first house we have:
Painted the front door teal
Planted plants in the garden
Replaced mailbox, house number and light fixture
Got a new security system {Vivint}
Painted the bathroom
Replaced storage cabinet and medicine cabinet in bathroom, as well as all of the gold fixtures for nice new brushed nickel ones
Started to paint the dining room.. took a few tries with samples but we found a great color! {Tobacco Leaf by Martha Stewart.. in Valspar}
We also bought a new washer and dryer {Whirlpool Duet}.. love love love them!!!
Today we're having someone from Alternative Earthcare come to look at a funny tree in the backyard.
Some branches need to be taken down. We also need some little trees cut back along the back fence. I hope it won't cost too much money.. I can't imagine cutting 6 branches or so out of a medium sized tree being too much work/money.
We're going to paint Noah's room a nice grey blue color, but that project is on hold till we finish the dining room.
I'm so excited for this house to be exactly the way we want it. It's all little cosmetic changes that will make this place really feel like home.
I haven't really bought more things for the house. We got a new hose holder, hose, 5 nautical themed accessories from Home Goods {my Kryptonite when it comes to not shopping} for on top of the tv stand, the tv console, 2 large paintings, and an american flag for the front of the house.
I'm still purging a bit. I'm getting rid of 2 shopping bags worth of clothes, and some old cellphones that don't work.
One of these days, I promise I'll do a video tour of our home!
Painted the front door teal
Planted plants in the garden
Replaced mailbox, house number and light fixture
Got a new security system {Vivint}
Painted the bathroom
Replaced storage cabinet and medicine cabinet in bathroom, as well as all of the gold fixtures for nice new brushed nickel ones
Started to paint the dining room.. took a few tries with samples but we found a great color! {Tobacco Leaf by Martha Stewart.. in Valspar}
We also bought a new washer and dryer {Whirlpool Duet}.. love love love them!!!
Today we're having someone from Alternative Earthcare come to look at a funny tree in the backyard.
Some branches need to be taken down. We also need some little trees cut back along the back fence. I hope it won't cost too much money.. I can't imagine cutting 6 branches or so out of a medium sized tree being too much work/money.
We're going to paint Noah's room a nice grey blue color, but that project is on hold till we finish the dining room.
I'm so excited for this house to be exactly the way we want it. It's all little cosmetic changes that will make this place really feel like home.
I haven't really bought more things for the house. We got a new hose holder, hose, 5 nautical themed accessories from Home Goods {my Kryptonite when it comes to not shopping} for on top of the tv stand, the tv console, 2 large paintings, and an american flag for the front of the house.
I'm still purging a bit. I'm getting rid of 2 shopping bags worth of clothes, and some old cellphones that don't work.
One of these days, I promise I'll do a video tour of our home!
Friday, June 3, 2011
Life is Good.
Not to sound too much like a slogan you'd spot on the back of a jeep, but.. life IS good.
We've moved into our new house, and it. is. perfect.
We moved in 1 day, including packing up some more stuff, going out to lunch for a break and picking up/dropping off the moving truck.
It wasn't stressful at all and the baby handled it all very well.
I unpacked everything the day after we moved in, then went out and got 2 paintings for above the couch and above our bed. They are gorgeous! I bought them during my first trip Home Goods. {My new favorite store. Its like Pier 1 but half the price. heck, maybe even 1/4 of the price.}
I've already done so much in the week we've been here. I power washed the front stoop, spray painted the light fixture outside black, and got a new one for the front, took down the vertical blinds, put up new curtains, painted the front door a bright aqua, planted some flowers and some plants from my Nana's yard, cleaned all of the windows and put the screens in, sprayed the yard for mosquitos and ticks.. phew. I know there's more, but I'm sure you don't want to read all of that haha.
We've had a lot of family and friends come by already. I'm so proud to show them my new home.
I will probably post a vlog tour of the place.
And this weather! You can't beat it. 75 and Sunny. My favorite weather.
Well, I'm off to enjoy the day and run around outside with my child.
Have a good one!
We've moved into our new house, and it. is. perfect.
We moved in 1 day, including packing up some more stuff, going out to lunch for a break and picking up/dropping off the moving truck.
It wasn't stressful at all and the baby handled it all very well.
I unpacked everything the day after we moved in, then went out and got 2 paintings for above the couch and above our bed. They are gorgeous! I bought them during my first trip Home Goods. {My new favorite store. Its like Pier 1 but half the price. heck, maybe even 1/4 of the price.}
I've already done so much in the week we've been here. I power washed the front stoop, spray painted the light fixture outside black, and got a new one for the front, took down the vertical blinds, put up new curtains, painted the front door a bright aqua, planted some flowers and some plants from my Nana's yard, cleaned all of the windows and put the screens in, sprayed the yard for mosquitos and ticks.. phew. I know there's more, but I'm sure you don't want to read all of that haha.
We've had a lot of family and friends come by already. I'm so proud to show them my new home.
I will probably post a vlog tour of the place.
And this weather! You can't beat it. 75 and Sunny. My favorite weather.
Well, I'm off to enjoy the day and run around outside with my child.
Have a good one!
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
The Big Move- a long boring post about moving day.
Were moving in 2 days.
2 DAYS!
I am so excited.. but maybe 2% of me is holding back, just waiting to hear some more bad news.
Buying a house really is so much harder than I thought it would be.
Maybe if I worked for a living it would have been easier.
But I'd never give up my time with Noah in order to get some more income... if we can afford it.
Everything is packed. well, almost everything. Our dishes and clothes aren't. but ill probably just pile my dishes into the front seat of our car, and toss the clothes into a garbage bag, haha.
Thursday morning we're picking up the moving truck and loading it up.. along with Jay's Bronco and the Escape.
Then at 3pm we're meeting with our lawyer and signing all of the paperwork. {enter a high pitched 'eeeeeee!' here}
Then I'll probably drop jay off at the old apartment and we'll head to the new house and drop off whatever we have loaded. Come back and load up again {if needed.. we don't have a lot of stuff} clean up the place, and say buh-bye!
My grandparents and cousins are coming over in the morning and evening {respectively} to help load and unload the trucks, while someone entertains Noah. I'm so happy we have help.. it makes everything so much less stressful!
So, next time I post, we'll be in our very own house! {ahhhhh!}
2 DAYS!
I am so excited.. but maybe 2% of me is holding back, just waiting to hear some more bad news.
Buying a house really is so much harder than I thought it would be.
Maybe if I worked for a living it would have been easier.
But I'd never give up my time with Noah in order to get some more income... if we can afford it.
Everything is packed. well, almost everything. Our dishes and clothes aren't. but ill probably just pile my dishes into the front seat of our car, and toss the clothes into a garbage bag, haha.
Thursday morning we're picking up the moving truck and loading it up.. along with Jay's Bronco and the Escape.
Then at 3pm we're meeting with our lawyer and signing all of the paperwork. {enter a high pitched 'eeeeeee!' here}
Then I'll probably drop jay off at the old apartment and we'll head to the new house and drop off whatever we have loaded. Come back and load up again {if needed.. we don't have a lot of stuff} clean up the place, and say buh-bye!
My grandparents and cousins are coming over in the morning and evening {respectively} to help load and unload the trucks, while someone entertains Noah. I'm so happy we have help.. it makes everything so much less stressful!
So, next time I post, we'll be in our very own house! {ahhhhh!}
Sunday, May 15, 2011
Beach Day!
Yesterday we drove onto a beach out here in the Hamptons. It was a gorgeous secluded spot.
Jay and his cousin surfed while Noah, the dog and me played on a blanket.
It got pretty chilly out so I packed up the truck and loaded up Noah and the dog.
And then cuteness ensued.
Afterwards we got some mexican food and some treats from Tate's bakeshop.. so yummy!
Fun Saturday!
Glad we enjoyed our day outside since the forecast says rain for the next 5 days. {boo!}
Hope you're enjoying your weekend!
Jay and his cousin surfed while Noah, the dog and me played on a blanket.
It got pretty chilly out so I packed up the truck and loaded up Noah and the dog.
And then cuteness ensued.
Afterwards we got some mexican food and some treats from Tate's bakeshop.. so yummy!
Fun Saturday!
Glad we enjoyed our day outside since the forecast says rain for the next 5 days. {boo!}
Hope you're enjoying your weekend!
Monday, May 9, 2011
129/365
Last night I went a little nuts on Soap.com and bought a bunch of beauty supplies. But nothing that I didn't already need.
•I'm out of face moisturizer, so i bought day and night cream from Yes To Carrots.
•I also bought body lotion, since I have none and my body is crying for some moisture.
•Sticking with Yes To Carrots, I bought the cleansing milk, cause I'm almost out ofOCM oil to wash my face :(. But its so easy and cheap to mix up a new batch, I'm sure I'll be going back to it now and then.
•Last but not least, I got Aveeno Nourish + Shine shampoo and conditioner. I was using dr bronners soap as shampoo and Organix coconut conditioner previously, and I guess I didn't realize just how horrible my hair looked until 2 days ago. So I showered with my sister's awesome shampoo and conditioner and I can almost hear my hair whispering "THAAAAANK YOUUUUU" into my ears.
I didn't spend a lot {$40}, and saved about $19!!
I don't really feeling guilty about these purchases. Maybe the new years resolution is starting to wear off? I hope not...
•I'm out of face moisturizer, so i bought day and night cream from Yes To Carrots.
•I also bought body lotion, since I have none and my body is crying for some moisture.
•Sticking with Yes To Carrots, I bought the cleansing milk, cause I'm almost out ofOCM oil to wash my face :(. But its so easy and cheap to mix up a new batch, I'm sure I'll be going back to it now and then.
•Last but not least, I got Aveeno Nourish + Shine shampoo and conditioner. I was using dr bronners soap as shampoo and Organix coconut conditioner previously, and I guess I didn't realize just how horrible my hair looked until 2 days ago. So I showered with my sister's awesome shampoo and conditioner and I can almost hear my hair whispering "THAAAAANK YOUUUUU" into my ears.
I didn't spend a lot {$40}, and saved about $19!!
I don't really feeling guilty about these purchases. Maybe the new years resolution is starting to wear off? I hope not...
Thursday, May 5, 2011
125/365
Wow. its been a long time since I updated you all about my new years resolution!
Well, lets just say, having the resolution has helped A LOT when it comes to me shopping.
now I have that little guilt, and the thought in the back of my head about not buying anything whenever I'm shopping.
Since my last post I have bought a few things..
-a new top today, it was 40% off, and gorgeous.
-a new rug, cause our old ones were DISGUSTING! {but this is more for the household than me...}
-tinted moisturizer, but I'm out of moisturizer/foundation, so thats good and not against the rules.
-Lipstick and concealer. the lipstick is PERFECT for summer, and I didn't have a great concealer till now..
-I got another top a few weeks ago, which was also on sale, and I've worn it so many times since then.
-Sunglasses, cause I lost mine {i hope to find my other ones though, I LOVED those!}
And i think thats it.
Without my resolution, I can assure you I probably would have bought a lot more things.
but we are buying a house right now... so maybe not.
I'll try to update more often, I've been SO BUSY with everything I need to do to get this house. But hopefully all of the hard work {and stress} will pay off soon enough, and we'll be in our very own house!
Well, lets just say, having the resolution has helped A LOT when it comes to me shopping.
now I have that little guilt, and the thought in the back of my head about not buying anything whenever I'm shopping.
Since my last post I have bought a few things..
-a new top today, it was 40% off, and gorgeous.
-a new rug, cause our old ones were DISGUSTING! {but this is more for the household than me...}
-tinted moisturizer, but I'm out of moisturizer/foundation, so thats good and not against the rules.
-Lipstick and concealer. the lipstick is PERFECT for summer, and I didn't have a great concealer till now..
-I got another top a few weeks ago, which was also on sale, and I've worn it so many times since then.
-Sunglasses, cause I lost mine {i hope to find my other ones though, I LOVED those!}
And i think thats it.
Without my resolution, I can assure you I probably would have bought a lot more things.
but we are buying a house right now... so maybe not.
I'll try to update more often, I've been SO BUSY with everything I need to do to get this house. But hopefully all of the hard work {and stress} will pay off soon enough, and we'll be in our very own house!
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Purgeday Thursday: Coming to the End
Wow! These Thursday's just sneak right up on me. Thank goodness the child is asleep and I can blast out a post right now.
So I donated a bunch of things this week to the lupus foundation.
Which is great since we are moving within 2 weeks.
They keep pushing off the closing date for the house.
Hopefully "2 weeks" is for real this time.
But anyway. This is probably going to be one of my last "Purgeday Thursday" posts.
I feel I've got no more to give.
We really don't need anything for the new house.
Besides new curtains for the living room, and I just ordered a pretty damask terra cotta rug to replace the icky smelling one we have now.
I'm excited we don't need much.. hopefully friends and family don't go nuts and get a lot.
I DO want one of those awesome ceramic Cimineas for the patio for those chilly summer nights. Also this adorable birdbath from Dayspring.
So, Hopefully the next Purgeday Thursday post will be about packing and moving in a few days.
We'll see!
But for now, were sitting tight, waiting to hear when the big day will be.
Do you have any tips about owning your first home? What you should buy, or not buy?
So I donated a bunch of things this week to the lupus foundation.
Which is great since we are moving within 2 weeks.
They keep pushing off the closing date for the house.
Hopefully "2 weeks" is for real this time.
But anyway. This is probably going to be one of my last "Purgeday Thursday" posts.
I feel I've got no more to give.
We really don't need anything for the new house.
Besides new curtains for the living room, and I just ordered a pretty damask terra cotta rug to replace the icky smelling one we have now.
I'm excited we don't need much.. hopefully friends and family don't go nuts and get a lot.
I DO want one of those awesome ceramic Cimineas for the patio for those chilly summer nights. Also this adorable birdbath from Dayspring.
So, Hopefully the next Purgeday Thursday post will be about packing and moving in a few days.
We'll see!
But for now, were sitting tight, waiting to hear when the big day will be.
Do you have any tips about owning your first home? What you should buy, or not buy?
Monday, April 25, 2011
Easter Sunday
Easter Sunday was a fun-filled crazy day.
We got up around 930am and started making my yummy eggplant parmesan.
My husband actually LOVES the stuff, and he will eat it for 3 days straight.
I wanted to introduce my grandparents to the awesome-ness of my homemade dish, so I had to get crackin' early to get it done on time.
Everyone loved it! Even my little man {duh.}
Noah got a wheely bee toy and some little cars that he LOVES.
Noah and great grandpa
After my grand parents house, we went to Jay's Uncle's house for some more food and family fun.
Next year we're going to hide eggs. I remember back when I was little how excited I was to go on the egg hunt and open up my easter basket. I can't wait to start that tradition with my little family.
Hope you had a great Easter!
We got up around 930am and started making my yummy eggplant parmesan.
My husband actually LOVES the stuff, and he will eat it for 3 days straight.
I wanted to introduce my grandparents to the awesome-ness of my homemade dish, so I had to get crackin' early to get it done on time.
Everyone loved it! Even my little man {duh.}
Noah got a wheely bee toy and some little cars that he LOVES.
Noah and great grandpa
After my grand parents house, we went to Jay's Uncle's house for some more food and family fun.
Next year we're going to hide eggs. I remember back when I was little how excited I was to go on the egg hunt and open up my easter basket. I can't wait to start that tradition with my little family.
Hope you had a great Easter!
Spring Is here!
Spring finally arrived to Long Island friday.
We went for a walk with Noah in the stroller, and admired all of the beautiful trees and flowers blooming.
I love spring so much!
The feeling of the sun on my skin and a warm breeze in the air {especially after this long drawn out winter we had} gets me so excited for the fun spring and summer ahead.
I walked outside with Noah again today. It was gorgeous out.
He nommed on Wheat Thins while looking around gleefully.
This kid is so easy to entertain.
Heres to many more walks on warm sunny days with my little love.
what is your favorite thing about spring? tell me in the comments..
We went for a walk with Noah in the stroller, and admired all of the beautiful trees and flowers blooming.
I love spring so much!
The feeling of the sun on my skin and a warm breeze in the air {especially after this long drawn out winter we had} gets me so excited for the fun spring and summer ahead.
I walked outside with Noah again today. It was gorgeous out.
He nommed on Wheat Thins while looking around gleefully.
This kid is so easy to entertain.
Heres to many more walks on warm sunny days with my little love.
what is your favorite thing about spring? tell me in the comments..
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Purgeday Thursday: More and More
I'm gathering a bunch of things to give to the lupus foundation on the 26th, and my mom brought over a big bag of our old clothes she was holding onto {no idea why.. this stuff is like 8 years old}. So this donation is going to be bigger than I thought.
We are slowing down on finding things to toss, but I'm sure the more I pack, the more I will find to donate.
My husband and I decided to toss our 3 rugs before we move cause they are kinda stinky from our dog. Hopefully that persimmon and cream striped rug will be back in stock soon, that would be gorgeous in our living room.
What do you guys think? We have chocolate brown couches and are looking for a rug with some color. Persimmon is nice, right?
We are slowing down on finding things to toss, but I'm sure the more I pack, the more I will find to donate.
My husband and I decided to toss our 3 rugs before we move cause they are kinda stinky from our dog. Hopefully that persimmon and cream striped rug will be back in stock soon, that would be gorgeous in our living room.
What do you guys think? We have chocolate brown couches and are looking for a rug with some color. Persimmon is nice, right?
Friday, April 15, 2011
Purgeday Thursday: Looking Ahead
We are moving forward with the house, and it looks like we will be closing/moving in 2 weeks!
This news totally puts a fire under my butt to get rid of as much crap as possible. I have a small pile building in our bedroom for The Lupus Foundation and I plan on making it bigger.
We're getting rid of possibly all 3 rugs we own, unless we find a local rug cleaner, then one is staying. {one too many puppy messes}
I'd LOVE to snag one of those persimmon & cream striped rugs from Dwell Studio, but they have been out of stock since Real Simple Magazine featured it.
So here we are: packing tossing donating.
I can't wait to show you pictures of our new house, and how we decorate. Cause right now, our place is a mess!
This news totally puts a fire under my butt to get rid of as much crap as possible. I have a small pile building in our bedroom for The Lupus Foundation and I plan on making it bigger.
We're getting rid of possibly all 3 rugs we own, unless we find a local rug cleaner, then one is staying. {one too many puppy messes}
I'd LOVE to snag one of those persimmon & cream striped rugs from Dwell Studio, but they have been out of stock since Real Simple Magazine featured it.
So here we are: packing tossing donating.
I can't wait to show you pictures of our new house, and how we decorate. Cause right now, our place is a mess!
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Fill Up Your Life
Have you ever listened to commercials?
Really listened?
They tell you how you aren't pretty enough, skinny enough, own enough, happy enough.
While listening to a commercial, I heard the line "A new you starts with NEW SHOES!"
So thats what's been holding me back from being all I can be! Shoes!
It's sad how commercials can so easily convince us we need something.
The other day I saw a commercial for Lumineers. They said "Never worry about having a brighter smile again!" and I thought, hmm, that sounds great!
Always being self conscious of my smile, what they said hit the nail on the head.
But then I thought about it. Do I really want a whole new smile? Do I want to spend hundreds, maybe thousands of dollars just so my smile is "perfect"?
Look around you. Be thankful for what you have.
Whether you have a small apartment or a large house
A nice new car, or a bicycle
beautiful furniture, or still living with your parents,
this is your life.
Don't let other people, or commercials tell you what you need.
Fill your life with beautiful, meaningful things. With good friends and family. With laughter, and happiness.
Fill your life with love.
What do you fill your life with? Whether its bills, meetings, playdates, tell me in the comments..
Really listened?
They tell you how you aren't pretty enough, skinny enough, own enough, happy enough.
While listening to a commercial, I heard the line "A new you starts with NEW SHOES!"
So thats what's been holding me back from being all I can be! Shoes!
It's sad how commercials can so easily convince us we need something.
The other day I saw a commercial for Lumineers. They said "Never worry about having a brighter smile again!" and I thought, hmm, that sounds great!
Always being self conscious of my smile, what they said hit the nail on the head.
But then I thought about it. Do I really want a whole new smile? Do I want to spend hundreds, maybe thousands of dollars just so my smile is "perfect"?
Look around you. Be thankful for what you have.
Whether you have a small apartment or a large house
A nice new car, or a bicycle
beautiful furniture, or still living with your parents,
this is your life.
Don't let other people, or commercials tell you what you need.
Fill your life with beautiful, meaningful things. With good friends and family. With laughter, and happiness.
Fill your life with love.
What do you fill your life with? Whether its bills, meetings, playdates, tell me in the comments..
Friday, April 8, 2011
Purge Day Thursday: Urge to Purge
Some boxes are packed, waiting to be carted off into our new {hopefully this time is for REAL} house. They sit on our dining table, staring back at me, while I wonder if I actually really need what's inside.
Of course I don't need any of it. But where will it sit once were in our new house? Is it even worthy of a place in the house? Is it worth the time it takes to wrap, pack, ship and unpack?
These questions have been floating through my mind these past few weeks. Not just about those boxes. about everything we own.
Do you really need that gaming system when I only enjoy 2 games occasionally on it?
Do I need all of those darn hangers in the closet?
Do we need those great yard-sale-find end table and tv stand? We wont have the tv in the corner anymore, so why have a corner tv stand?
My urge to purge is getting to me and I think I know why.
My sister.
She has SO MUCH stuff.
She is currently living with us, along with her bags and bags of clothes. {and I thought I had a lot of clothes before the huge purge!}
Now, don't get me wrong, I LOVE having her here everyday and Noah loves seeing her right when he wakes up.
But seeing all of her stuff, makes me itch with the need to de-clutter.
Once we move, and my stuff is in my room and her stuff is in her room, things will be easier.
Just another few weeks {if everything goes as planned} and we'll be in a whole new place, with 7 rooms instead of 3.5
It can't come soon enough!
Of course I don't need any of it. But where will it sit once were in our new house? Is it even worthy of a place in the house? Is it worth the time it takes to wrap, pack, ship and unpack?
These questions have been floating through my mind these past few weeks. Not just about those boxes. about everything we own.
Do you really need that gaming system when I only enjoy 2 games occasionally on it?
Do I need all of those darn hangers in the closet?
Do we need those great yard-sale-find end table and tv stand? We wont have the tv in the corner anymore, so why have a corner tv stand?
My urge to purge is getting to me and I think I know why.
My sister.
She has SO MUCH stuff.
She is currently living with us, along with her bags and bags of clothes. {and I thought I had a lot of clothes before the huge purge!}
Now, don't get me wrong, I LOVE having her here everyday and Noah loves seeing her right when he wakes up.
But seeing all of her stuff, makes me itch with the need to de-clutter.
Once we move, and my stuff is in my room and her stuff is in her room, things will be easier.
Just another few weeks {if everything goes as planned} and we'll be in a whole new place, with 7 rooms instead of 3.5
It can't come soon enough!
Monday, April 4, 2011
Getting Down To The Nitty-Gritty
A few months back I started to get rid of things. LOTS of things.
From chotchkies to smaller baby clothes, out the door they went.
It felt good to give some to goodwill, Lupus Foundation, and others to expecting friends.
I feel like its that time again. Although, I don't really have much more to give up.
Of course I have the random gifts from well-meaning friends and family that don't quite fit into our simply-styled home. It's quite hard parting with these things. Not because they mean something to me, but because it came from someone who means a lot to me.
Is that a reason to hold onto something?
And what about the 2 sizes too big post-pregnancy jeans I'm holding onto just in case my weight goes back up? Does storing them in my out of season clothes bin make me subconsciously think it's okay to gain that weight back?
So here I go, digging through my packed boxes and clothes bin tossing whatever means nothing to me.
Join me?
From chotchkies to smaller baby clothes, out the door they went.
It felt good to give some to goodwill, Lupus Foundation, and others to expecting friends.
I feel like its that time again. Although, I don't really have much more to give up.
Of course I have the random gifts from well-meaning friends and family that don't quite fit into our simply-styled home. It's quite hard parting with these things. Not because they mean something to me, but because it came from someone who means a lot to me.
Is that a reason to hold onto something?
And what about the 2 sizes too big post-pregnancy jeans I'm holding onto just in case my weight goes back up? Does storing them in my out of season clothes bin make me subconsciously think it's okay to gain that weight back?
So here I go, digging through my packed boxes and clothes bin tossing whatever means nothing to me.
Join me?
Saturday, April 2, 2011
Simple Ways To Remove Clutter From Your Life
When I was just starting to getting rid of the junk Ive been holding on to, I made small, simple steps. Heres a list of ways you can begin your journey to a clutter free life.
Computer
.Remove unnecessary icons from your desktop. put them in the appropriate folders for a streamline look.
.Go through your inbox and remove yourself from email lists of daily and weekly sales and specials from various stores. {Click "Unsubscribe" at the bottom of the email}
.While you're there, remove spam emails from your inbox as well. {Check the box on the email, and click "Report as Spam" up top}
.Empty the "trash" on your desktop. {if you are on a Mac, go to the finder menu on the top, click "Secure Empty Trash" to remove everything permanently}
.Another tip for Mac users, while on Safari, go to the menu, and empty Cache. Also, go to Preferences> Security> Remove cookies. {you can also, change "Accept Cookies" to "only sites I visit"}
Personal Items
.Go though your pictures. Remove blurry shots, photos you cringe at of yourself {who doesn't have these?}, ex-boyfriends or ex-girlfriends and duplicates. Arrange in chronological order for extra points.
.Delete bad pictures off of your digital camera
.Remove excess pictures, magnets and old cards from refrigerator.
.Throw away any expired medicines and vitamins {check for regulations about disposing antibiotics and medicine}
.Bag up {hehe} plastic shopping bags and bring to local grocery store to recycle them. {most grocery stores around here have a big bin by the entrance/exit for this purpose}
.Go through your cabinets and discard old cans of food, or expired food items.
.Recycle older magazines and newspapers. {cut out favorite articles you would like to keep, and put them in a binder or folder}
There are so many ways you can make your life even just a little more clutter free. Try a few of these and you will see the difference.
Do you have any small steps you make to make your home less cluttered?
Computer
.Remove unnecessary icons from your desktop. put them in the appropriate folders for a streamline look.
.Go through your inbox and remove yourself from email lists of daily and weekly sales and specials from various stores. {Click "Unsubscribe" at the bottom of the email}
.While you're there, remove spam emails from your inbox as well. {Check the box on the email, and click "Report as Spam" up top}
.Empty the "trash" on your desktop. {if you are on a Mac, go to the finder menu on the top, click "Secure Empty Trash" to remove everything permanently}
.Another tip for Mac users, while on Safari, go to the menu, and empty Cache. Also, go to Preferences> Security> Remove cookies. {you can also, change "Accept Cookies" to "only sites I visit"}
Personal Items
.Go though your pictures. Remove blurry shots, photos you cringe at of yourself {who doesn't have these?}, ex-boyfriends or ex-girlfriends and duplicates. Arrange in chronological order for extra points.
.Delete bad pictures off of your digital camera
.Remove excess pictures, magnets and old cards from refrigerator.
.Throw away any expired medicines and vitamins {check for regulations about disposing antibiotics and medicine}
.Bag up {hehe} plastic shopping bags and bring to local grocery store to recycle them. {most grocery stores around here have a big bin by the entrance/exit for this purpose}
.Go through your cabinets and discard old cans of food, or expired food items.
.Recycle older magazines and newspapers. {cut out favorite articles you would like to keep, and put them in a binder or folder}
There are so many ways you can make your life even just a little more clutter free. Try a few of these and you will see the difference.
Do you have any small steps you make to make your home less cluttered?
The Minimalist Mindset
Thousands of people around the world are catching on to the benefits of living a minimalist lifestyle. When the economy is in a downturn, and everyone is pinching pennies, people will look for ways to save some money.
But is Minimalism popular only because of the economic state? Or, is minimalism for many families a long journey for life?
Many scientists, monks and religious masters in the past have spoke of the benefits of living a simple life, free of clutter, therefore freeing the mind.
“If one’s life is simple, contentment has to come. Simplicity is extremely important for happiness. Having few desires, feeling satisfied with what you have, is very vital: satisfaction with just enough food, clothing, and shelter to protect yourself from the elements." The Dalai Lama 1935
Living in modern society makes it difficult to free oneself from the materialist lifestyle, with advertisements everywhere we look, telling us what we have is not good enough. Being content with what we have brings greater happiness than anything money can buy.
“Be content with what you have; rejoice in the way things are. When you realize there is nothing lacking, the whole world belongs to you.” Lao Tzu 500 BCE
“It is preoccupation with possession, more than anything else, that prevents men from living freely and nobly.” Bertrand Russell 1872
Possessing more does not equal greater happiness, one must find that happiness through family, friends, laughter and joy.
Showing gratitude, and giving thanks for what we cherish most in life will lead us to peace and freedom within ourselves.
Do you think minimalism is here to stay?
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Purge Day Thursday: Standstill
I haven't really purged much this week. I am slowly evaluating and tossing random things into a pile to donate. But, its not very impressive.
I've purged a lot over the past few months, and for my meager 22 years on this planet, and 5 years living on my own, I didn't have much to start off with.
One thing I definitely need to get is one of those CD cases that they had back when everyone listened to CDs. I'd like to find one used at a yard sale or goodwill this spring. We need one for our DVD/Blu-ray/CD/game collection. really badly. Theres a pile of dvds in the storage ottoman, his games are piled on the desk, and there's cds in a box in the closet. I think Jay isn't fond of getting rid of all of the cases they came in, but the way they are stored right now is not cutting it.
I've purged a lot over the past few months, and for my meager 22 years on this planet, and 5 years living on my own, I didn't have much to start off with.
One thing I definitely need to get is one of those CD cases that they had back when everyone listened to CDs. I'd like to find one used at a yard sale or goodwill this spring. We need one for our DVD/Blu-ray/CD/game collection. really badly. Theres a pile of dvds in the storage ottoman, his games are piled on the desk, and there's cds in a box in the closet. I think Jay isn't fond of getting rid of all of the cases they came in, but the way they are stored right now is not cutting it.
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Things I Own
While I don't like adhering to a certain amount of items I allow myself to own, I do like having a small amount of things. When I get a new shirt, it is usually to replace one that no longer fits, or is worn out.
I'm also still working on my new years resolution to not buying anything new. I have 5 candles, and about 4 half used hair conditioners. That's too much for me. So I'm working on using them all up, then I can buy more.
Heres a list of things I own as of today. It is constantly evolving, so I will try to update it every now and then.
Clothing
2 Jeans- Medium Blue Jegging, Dark Blue Skinny
2 Chinos {gray and navy}
2 Sweatpants- Tan and Pink. {may get rid of these, they always fall down}
2 Pajama Pants- Pink and Grey
1 sports bra
1 house sweater
2 hoodies
2 sweaters
23 tops {cardigans, shirts, layering tops}
1 jacket
Seasonal or non-everyday clothing
1 Snowboarding jacket
1 Snowboarding Pants
1 Snowboarding gloves
1 winter coat
2 bathing suits
1 Workout top
1 Workout pants
1 Bathrobe
3 winter hats
1 gloves
My Things
1 HTC Freestyle cellphone
1 snowboard
1 snowboarding boots
1 Bicycle
1 Longboard
2 Candles
1 blue flower thing
1 marriage pitcher thing
1 colorful cross
1 bible
1 nook ereader {+ accessories- case, nook light}
1 macbook laptop {+ case}
1 canon DSLR camera {+ accessories- camera strap cover, camera bag, zoom lens for surfing pics}
1 jewelry bowl
1 planner
1 gussy clutch
1 madebyhank clutch
1 madebyhank bag
1 O'neill purse {will be donating..}
1 brown purse
1 Large Bin for out of season clothing
Beauty and Toiletries
face oil {+ washcloth}
Yes To Carrots {Cleanser, AM + PM moisturizer, body lotion}
1 face scrub
1 face mask
1 dr bronners soap
Aveeno Nourish + Shine Shampoo and Conditioner
3 nail polishes {plum, pink, silver}
1 flat iron
1 blow dryer
Neti Pot
Make up {mascara, blush, concealer, Aveeno Tinted moisturizer, bare minerals foundation-if needed-}
There is, of course, all of the household items, and the stuff my husband and son own.
As you can see I try to limit what I own but I still have the things I enjoy.
Its nice having less because you then appreciate what you do have, and you no longer feel the need organize your stuff.
Do you think my list is too short? or too long? what do you own that you would list as essential? tell me in the comments
last updated: 5/18/11
I'm also still working on my new years resolution to not buying anything new. I have 5 candles, and about 4 half used hair conditioners. That's too much for me. So I'm working on using them all up, then I can buy more.
Heres a list of things I own as of today. It is constantly evolving, so I will try to update it every now and then.
Clothing
2 Jeans- Medium Blue Jegging, Dark Blue Skinny
2 Chinos {gray and navy}
2 Sweatpants- Tan and Pink. {may get rid of these, they always fall down}
2 Pajama Pants- Pink and Grey
1 sports bra
1 house sweater
2 hoodies
2 sweaters
23 tops {cardigans, shirts, layering tops}
1 jacket
Seasonal or non-everyday clothing
1 Snowboarding jacket
1 Snowboarding Pants
1 Snowboarding gloves
1 winter coat
2 bathing suits
1 Workout top
1 Workout pants
1 Bathrobe
3 winter hats
1 gloves
My Things
1 HTC Freestyle cellphone
1 snowboard
1 snowboarding boots
1 Bicycle
1 Longboard
2 Candles
1 blue flower thing
1 marriage pitcher thing
1 colorful cross
1 bible
1 nook ereader {+ accessories- case, nook light}
1 macbook laptop {+ case}
1 canon DSLR camera {+ accessories- camera strap cover, camera bag, zoom lens for surfing pics}
1 jewelry bowl
1 planner
1 gussy clutch
1 madebyhank clutch
1 madebyhank bag
1 O'neill purse {will be donating..}
1 brown purse
1 Large Bin for out of season clothing
Beauty and Toiletries
face oil {+ washcloth}
Yes To Carrots {Cleanser, AM + PM moisturizer, body lotion}
1 face scrub
1 face mask
1 dr bronners soap
Aveeno Nourish + Shine Shampoo and Conditioner
3 nail polishes {plum, pink, silver}
1 flat iron
1 blow dryer
Neti Pot
Make up {mascara, blush, concealer, Aveeno Tinted moisturizer, bare minerals foundation-if needed-}
There is, of course, all of the household items, and the stuff my husband and son own.
As you can see I try to limit what I own but I still have the things I enjoy.
Its nice having less because you then appreciate what you do have, and you no longer feel the need organize your stuff.
Do you think my list is too short? or too long? what do you own that you would list as essential? tell me in the comments
last updated: 5/18/11
The small butterfly
moves as though unburdened by
the world of desire
-Haiku by Kobayashi Issa
Home Farming
I've always wanted to grow my own vegetables.
I read about raised garden beds, and how to make them, and dreamed of one day going outside and picking my own fresh tomatoes and eggplants right from the vine.
In this new house we are currently buying there is a raised garden bed in the backyard. The perfect small, manageable size I've always wanted!
I am so excited to start growing my own vegetables. It's too bad every time I have a house plant, it dies within a few days. Hopefully my brown thumb won't transfer over to my gardening too.
I'll post pictures of my growing, or dying, garden once I get it going.
I read about raised garden beds, and how to make them, and dreamed of one day going outside and picking my own fresh tomatoes and eggplants right from the vine.
In this new house we are currently buying there is a raised garden bed in the backyard. The perfect small, manageable size I've always wanted!
I am so excited to start growing my own vegetables. It's too bad every time I have a house plant, it dies within a few days. Hopefully my brown thumb won't transfer over to my gardening too.
I'll post pictures of my growing, or dying, garden once I get it going.
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
88/365
Yesterday was a strange day for me.
I felt the compulsive need to buy something. all. day. long.
so strange.
whether it was makeup, or clothes, or a bathing suit, I couldn't stop.
But I didn't buy anything! AMAZING.
nothing short of a miracle.
I did finally order TOMS shoes. The dog ate my Sanuks, and my feet are so cold in the dressy flats I've been wearing instead. The shoes will be here friday, and I am so excited!
Onto some house hunt news:
we are signing the contract on this house within a few days! :D so excited about that.
I don't know when we are going to close though. I would like to close sometime in april, but I don't know about the seller's plans.
Packing is definitely helping me realize how much I don't need.
I already have 4 small boxes packed, and I don't really need anything in them.
I think I went into one of them for something for my sister once in the past 5 days.
This may be a new "hot spot" for me to de-clutter.
I'll update with pictures and a new list of clothing and items I own soon.
Life has been slowing down a bit recently {THANK GOD!}, so I'll be updating this a bit more often with fun things.
Thanks for reading!
I felt the compulsive need to buy something. all. day. long.
so strange.
whether it was makeup, or clothes, or a bathing suit, I couldn't stop.
But I didn't buy anything! AMAZING.
nothing short of a miracle.
I did finally order TOMS shoes. The dog ate my Sanuks, and my feet are so cold in the dressy flats I've been wearing instead. The shoes will be here friday, and I am so excited!
Onto some house hunt news:
we are signing the contract on this house within a few days! :D so excited about that.
I don't know when we are going to close though. I would like to close sometime in april, but I don't know about the seller's plans.
Packing is definitely helping me realize how much I don't need.
I already have 4 small boxes packed, and I don't really need anything in them.
I think I went into one of them for something for my sister once in the past 5 days.
This may be a new "hot spot" for me to de-clutter.
I'll update with pictures and a new list of clothing and items I own soon.
Life has been slowing down a bit recently {THANK GOD!}, so I'll be updating this a bit more often with fun things.
Thanks for reading!
Hello!
I made this blog because my family feels strongly about having a minimalist lifestyle, but not adhering to the likes of the 100 item rule, or the 333 challenge. We like not having too many things, and enjoy having a clutter free and peaceful home.
I will be posting pictures, and writing about things we do own, showing how you can be minimalists, and not deprive yourself or your children.
Join me in our journey of minimalism.
I will be posting pictures, and writing about things we do own, showing how you can be minimalists, and not deprive yourself or your children.
Join me in our journey of minimalism.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
purging prior to packing.
I've started packing up some random things around the house {aka: the stuff that i will probably try to get rid of before we actually make the move}.. its got me thinking maybe I have a bit more to get rid of.
I have this shelf wall thing between the kitchen and dining room and its lined with a parade of candles, picture frames, random chotchkies, a bonsai plant, a reed diffuser, and some sand/beach glass from puerto rico. if you ask me, thats too much.
When I feel like I have hit a purging wall, I usually take a break, just live with what I have, then one day, the purging itch usually starts back up again.
Recently its been a huge purge session because were preparing to move, and lord knows how much I hate packing, moving and unpacking.
My sister is living with us for a few months while she saves up some money for her own place. I won't go into detail about it much, but I will say, seeing her live with her necessities, and leave all of her other stuff either at our mom's house, or my father in laws, it really shows what you can live without.
It kind of inspiring me to get rid of more stuff, in a funny round-about way.
I love questioning if what I own is either practical, or personal. It really helps me analyze (as if I'm not analytic enough already) what I own, and get rid of what I don't need/want.
I have this shelf wall thing between the kitchen and dining room and its lined with a parade of candles, picture frames, random chotchkies, a bonsai plant, a reed diffuser, and some sand/beach glass from puerto rico. if you ask me, thats too much.
When I feel like I have hit a purging wall, I usually take a break, just live with what I have, then one day, the purging itch usually starts back up again.
Recently its been a huge purge session because were preparing to move, and lord knows how much I hate packing, moving and unpacking.
My sister is living with us for a few months while she saves up some money for her own place. I won't go into detail about it much, but I will say, seeing her live with her necessities, and leave all of her other stuff either at our mom's house, or my father in laws, it really shows what you can live without.
It kind of inspiring me to get rid of more stuff, in a funny round-about way.
I love questioning if what I own is either practical, or personal. It really helps me analyze (as if I'm not analytic enough already) what I own, and get rid of what I don't need/want.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
81/365
Well Hello! So, my resolution definitely helped curb my online shopping, and shopping in general. I'll be honest, I had to buy some black heels for a wedding, get the bridesmaid dress and alter it, and I bought noah some new shoes cause his current ones were too tight.
All of that was pretty much necessary to buy.
But, I also just purchased a necklace (YAY!) from Lisa Leonard, Sooo excited about this.
I havent bought anything else really.
My sister has bought me 4 shirts haha.
She bought me basic black and white shirts, and another thicker, more durable white one.
She also bought me this great tank, with silk flower ruffles on the front. so cute, and goes with everything I own.
So, I'm kinda revamping my wardrobe. Each time she gets me something (thank you so much gabi!) I can get rid of my old tanks, and cami's, and replace them with high quality, longer lasting tops.
...
We are on our third house now, and hopefully this will be it! It is a perfect 3 bedroom house, with a fenced in yard, big shed, and a patio. its everything we wanted in a house. PLUS! It is only a short walk from baseball fields, a playground and the water. so perfect! and the seller (whom we actually know) is willing to work something out with us so we can get it, and not worry about the mortgage being too tight.
wow.
so freaking happy.
so thats everything thats been going on, thought i'd update this cause its been awhile {not including my awkward vlog post, haha, and there will be another posted tomorrow!}
All of that was pretty much necessary to buy.
But, I also just purchased a necklace (YAY!) from Lisa Leonard, Sooo excited about this.
I havent bought anything else really.
My sister has bought me 4 shirts haha.
She bought me basic black and white shirts, and another thicker, more durable white one.
She also bought me this great tank, with silk flower ruffles on the front. so cute, and goes with everything I own.
So, I'm kinda revamping my wardrobe. Each time she gets me something (thank you so much gabi!) I can get rid of my old tanks, and cami's, and replace them with high quality, longer lasting tops.
...
We are on our third house now, and hopefully this will be it! It is a perfect 3 bedroom house, with a fenced in yard, big shed, and a patio. its everything we wanted in a house. PLUS! It is only a short walk from baseball fields, a playground and the water. so perfect! and the seller (whom we actually know) is willing to work something out with us so we can get it, and not worry about the mortgage being too tight.
wow.
so freaking happy.
so thats everything thats been going on, thought i'd update this cause its been awhile {not including my awkward vlog post, haha, and there will be another posted tomorrow!}
Saturday, March 5, 2011
64/365
Hello!
A few things have been going on lately:
First, We are signing the contract on a house (different tan the other house mentioned previously) in patchogue monday! yay!!
Second, I have a killer sinus infection type thing going on.
This new house were moving into has a bunch of chotchkies (however you spell it) in the garden and yard, that I plan on getting rid of. little lanterns and random things, so annoying. I am looking forward to getting a cute bird bath from Dayspring as a gift to myself :) but I cant take all those little things everywhere.
Because of the sinus infection, and springquickly approaching I bought a neti pot.
Ive wanted one of these bad boys for a while but was always afraid.
My friend Emma found out shes having a boy, so I gave her and her husband a box of noahs clothes, and a few things like the moby wrap and toy tie. Feels so good to be one box less. I think we had about 6 boxes total so far. Insane. We have 1.5 boxes left right now, saving the bigger clothes for the next mama having a boy.
I gathered up a bunch more stuff for the Lupus Foundation. This is probably the 5th box of stuff I've given to them. And thats not including the 2 huge bags of noahs toys and random things I dropped off in the drop boxes a few months ago.
I'm currently editing out a few shirts in my wardrobe that I havent worn all winter, and bought when I was 35 lbs heavier last winter. and a few more shirts that have just worn out.
Gabi surprised me by getting me a pack of cap sleeved basic tees (I mentioned to her -there i go mentioning things to her again- that i need one or 2 plain nice undershirts to put under a cardigan) from H&M. Im excited to see how they fit.
Since were moving in 2 months or so I'm sure I will be editing out a bunch of stuff so packing and moving wont be as traumatic as last time, haha.
I also got rid of some creams and lotions and hair care products. Giving my deep red lipstick to a friend, and my lemon clarifying shampoo and conditioner to my mom. I also gave a perfume to my sister. I always loved how it smelled, but I dont really like wearing perfume. So now when she comes over and is wearing it, i get to smell it, but not smell it on myself all day! (This added benefit was not my original intent, I knew she liked it and thats all.)
Heres my updated list of clothing items I own:
3 pairs of jeans
2 sweatpants
2 pajama pants
21 tops- 9 shirts, 2 layering shirts, 10 cardigans
2 hoodies
2 coats
2 sweaters
1 house sweater
4 shoes (1 boots, 1 sanuks, 1 flip flops, 1 dressy flat)
want to replace my sanuks with Toms still. And the coats, boots and sweaters are seasonal.
I kinda want to count all of my personal items as well, but I cant promise when i will have the time for that.
and I also dont know how to differentiate my items, and stuff for the house.. like candles, and pictures of my baby and me.
tata!
A few things have been going on lately:
First, We are signing the contract on a house (different tan the other house mentioned previously) in patchogue monday! yay!!
Second, I have a killer sinus infection type thing going on.
This new house were moving into has a bunch of chotchkies (however you spell it) in the garden and yard, that I plan on getting rid of. little lanterns and random things, so annoying. I am looking forward to getting a cute bird bath from Dayspring as a gift to myself :) but I cant take all those little things everywhere.
Because of the sinus infection, and spring
Ive wanted one of these bad boys for a while but was always afraid.
My friend Emma found out shes having a boy, so I gave her and her husband a box of noahs clothes, and a few things like the moby wrap and toy tie. Feels so good to be one box less. I think we had about 6 boxes total so far. Insane. We have 1.5 boxes left right now, saving the bigger clothes for the next mama having a boy.
I gathered up a bunch more stuff for the Lupus Foundation. This is probably the 5th box of stuff I've given to them. And thats not including the 2 huge bags of noahs toys and random things I dropped off in the drop boxes a few months ago.
I'm currently editing out a few shirts in my wardrobe that I havent worn all winter, and bought when I was 35 lbs heavier last winter. and a few more shirts that have just worn out.
Gabi surprised me by getting me a pack of cap sleeved basic tees (I mentioned to her -there i go mentioning things to her again- that i need one or 2 plain nice undershirts to put under a cardigan) from H&M. Im excited to see how they fit.
Since were moving in 2 months or so I'm sure I will be editing out a bunch of stuff so packing and moving wont be as traumatic as last time, haha.
I also got rid of some creams and lotions and hair care products. Giving my deep red lipstick to a friend, and my lemon clarifying shampoo and conditioner to my mom. I also gave a perfume to my sister. I always loved how it smelled, but I dont really like wearing perfume. So now when she comes over and is wearing it, i get to smell it, but not smell it on myself all day! (This added benefit was not my original intent, I knew she liked it and thats all.)
Heres my updated list of clothing items I own:
3 pairs of jeans
2 sweatpants
2 pajama pants
21 tops- 9 shirts, 2 layering shirts, 10 cardigans
2 hoodies
2 coats
2 sweaters
1 house sweater
4 shoes (1 boots, 1 sanuks, 1 flip flops, 1 dressy flat)
want to replace my sanuks with Toms still. And the coats, boots and sweaters are seasonal.
I kinda want to count all of my personal items as well, but I cant promise when i will have the time for that.
and I also dont know how to differentiate my items, and stuff for the house.. like candles, and pictures of my baby and me.
tata!
Sunday, February 20, 2011
51/365
alright. I told my sister (who works at J.Crew, and also gets 30% off) that if any great quality cardigans go on sale let me know. well. it happened.
but who doesnt love some well made, awesome go-to cardigans??
I got olive, dark blue and medium blue. they were on clearance, plus her 30% off.
ohhhh im bad, i know. but i did make an agreement with jay that I can get some tops with our tax return money.
hmph. i hate feeling guilty about this.
i still need 2-3 more tops, that fit perfectly, and can go with a lot of outfits.. then i'll consider my "wardrobe" complete.
i'd love to have a very minimal wardrobe.. where everything can be mixed and matched and look great on me.
in other news.. were not getting that house i mentioned. it needed a lot of work upfront to even just get a FHA mortgage.. and a lot of the work needed to be done was major stuff.
but who doesnt love some well made, awesome go-to cardigans??
I got olive, dark blue and medium blue. they were on clearance, plus her 30% off.
ohhhh im bad, i know. but i did make an agreement with jay that I can get some tops with our tax return money.
hmph. i hate feeling guilty about this.
i still need 2-3 more tops, that fit perfectly, and can go with a lot of outfits.. then i'll consider my "wardrobe" complete.
i'd love to have a very minimal wardrobe.. where everything can be mixed and matched and look great on me.
in other news.. were not getting that house i mentioned. it needed a lot of work upfront to even just get a FHA mortgage.. and a lot of the work needed to be done was major stuff.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
48/365
nothing bought, stuff returned to stores.
unfortunately got store credit.
but, it will come in handy when needing things for our new home!
yep, we put an offer on a house last week, and finally, yesterday we accepted their counter offer of 210k.
I'm ready to jump up and down and yell happy words but we still have a ways to go before we actually own the house. I'm mostly worried about getting a mortgage. even though we've had apartments before that costed about the same as this house would cost us each month.
anyway.
packing is on my mind
i hate packing and moving all those boxes and furniture
i hope over the next few months to de-clutter and pare down some more
I finally made my own lotion a few days ago, it went well.. maybe a little too much coconut oil.
i used only half of the ingredients, and used a little of the left over coconut oil to make homemade deodorant for my sister and myself.
unfortunately got store credit.
but, it will come in handy when needing things for our new home!
yep, we put an offer on a house last week, and finally, yesterday we accepted their counter offer of 210k.
I'm ready to jump up and down and yell happy words but we still have a ways to go before we actually own the house. I'm mostly worried about getting a mortgage. even though we've had apartments before that costed about the same as this house would cost us each month.
anyway.
packing is on my mind
i hate packing and moving all those boxes and furniture
i hope over the next few months to de-clutter and pare down some more
I finally made my own lotion a few days ago, it went well.. maybe a little too much coconut oil.
i used only half of the ingredients, and used a little of the left over coconut oil to make homemade deodorant for my sister and myself.
Sunday, February 13, 2011
44/365
Ive been doing good with my resolution.
I bought a DIY kit to make lotion, but it was so cheap, and once its all made, I'll be saying bye-bye to all of my lotions (except one, and its jay's favorite)
I have to return those jeans I bought, they were way too light for my taste, and get a darker pair.
I am going to bag up a bunch of tops today and donate them.
Ive been wearing the same 8 tops over the past week or so, trying to see what combinations work, and its helped me narrow down my favorite tops.
I bought some expensive lamb ribs for valentines day dinner last night, and i felt a little guilty doing so, but it is food, and we need to eat, so I'm not beating myself up about it.
I bought a DIY kit to make lotion, but it was so cheap, and once its all made, I'll be saying bye-bye to all of my lotions (except one, and its jay's favorite)
I have to return those jeans I bought, they were way too light for my taste, and get a darker pair.
I am going to bag up a bunch of tops today and donate them.
Ive been wearing the same 8 tops over the past week or so, trying to see what combinations work, and its helped me narrow down my favorite tops.
I bought some expensive lamb ribs for valentines day dinner last night, and i felt a little guilty doing so, but it is food, and we need to eat, so I'm not beating myself up about it.
Friday, February 4, 2011
35/365
Ive been bad.
I bought a pair of jeans, and 2 belts.
bad bad bad.
I dont need the jeans, they were on sale, and i only have 2 pairs
sigh. i feel like i failed.
but, i am purging more shirts and old bras from my clothing
and i am also limiting my clothing choices, ala Project 333 style
then, if i succeed and i find i dont want the other shirts i still own, those will be purged as well.
The belts were a smart buy cause I can wear my long cardigans and flowy tops with more style now
I got a wide waist belt, and a skinny one.
Its crazy how expensive things are.
I spent $85 including shipping and taxes. Crazy.
If the belts arent what I expected you can bet i'll return them and get something cheaper at old navy or f21.
I counted all of my clothing items, not including bras and underwear, and I have less than 45 items.
pretty sweet
3 pairs of jeans
3 sweatpants
2 pajama pants
25 tops
2 hoodies
2 coats
2 sweaters
1 house sweater
4 shoes (1 boots, 1 sanuks, 1 flip flops, 1 dressy flat)
I bought a pair of jeans, and 2 belts.
bad bad bad.
I dont need the jeans, they were on sale, and i only have 2 pairs
sigh. i feel like i failed.
but, i am purging more shirts and old bras from my clothing
and i am also limiting my clothing choices, ala Project 333 style
then, if i succeed and i find i dont want the other shirts i still own, those will be purged as well.
The belts were a smart buy cause I can wear my long cardigans and flowy tops with more style now
I got a wide waist belt, and a skinny one.
Its crazy how expensive things are.
I spent $85 including shipping and taxes. Crazy.
If the belts arent what I expected you can bet i'll return them and get something cheaper at old navy or f21.
I counted all of my clothing items, not including bras and underwear, and I have less than 45 items.
pretty sweet
3 pairs of jeans
3 sweatpants
2 pajama pants
25 tops
2 hoodies
2 coats
2 sweaters
1 house sweater
4 shoes (1 boots, 1 sanuks, 1 flip flops, 1 dressy flat)
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
33/365
I bought a charger for my LG Neon.. which was like $2.00 so I could switch back to a cheaper phone. we were paying $175 a month for both of our phones and now its down to $130, including taxes. Hopefully jay will get a hang of using mostly WiFi, so we can cut down his data plan too.
I sold a roxy handbag on ebay for $10, so that covers the cost of the charger ;)
I'm getting rid of a lot of beauty stuff, and using the things I havent used in a while, like lotions and cleansers. I made a list of what I want ot be using once everything is used up, and its compromised of mainly 4-5 different products. Pretty good.
Whatttt ellllse...
I havent had any urges really to buy anything.. besides mrs. meyers cleaning products.. which gabi surprised me with the other day.
I have to return a few gifts, and some huge (size 8) jeans I only wore once or twice to Pacsun.. hopefully I can get a nice shirt or 2 with the money.. or ill just save the cash. Pacsun isn't really my style anymore anyway.
I have to get noah some teeshirts for the summer, but I have a $15 gift card to old navy (PERFECT) so I can get 3-4 shirts with that, and be set till his next b-day.
I'd love to get some TOMS shoes from Bunger, since we usually get really great deals there. I'm kinda over my Sanuks. Maybe with the money i get back from the returned gifts, I can buy the TOMS.. good idea huh?
I sold a roxy handbag on ebay for $10, so that covers the cost of the charger ;)
I'm getting rid of a lot of beauty stuff, and using the things I havent used in a while, like lotions and cleansers. I made a list of what I want ot be using once everything is used up, and its compromised of mainly 4-5 different products. Pretty good.
Whatttt ellllse...
I havent had any urges really to buy anything.. besides mrs. meyers cleaning products.. which gabi surprised me with the other day.
I have to return a few gifts, and some huge (size 8) jeans I only wore once or twice to Pacsun.. hopefully I can get a nice shirt or 2 with the money.. or ill just save the cash. Pacsun isn't really my style anymore anyway.
I have to get noah some teeshirts for the summer, but I have a $15 gift card to old navy (PERFECT) so I can get 3-4 shirts with that, and be set till his next b-day.
I'd love to get some TOMS shoes from Bunger, since we usually get really great deals there. I'm kinda over my Sanuks. Maybe with the money i get back from the returned gifts, I can buy the TOMS.. good idea huh?
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
19/365
almost bought some Mrs. Meyers cleaning stuff.
I realized it was my need to shop, and not my need of cleaning supplies, so I X'ed out and didn't look back.
May try to sell back an old 3g phone to AT&T to get a new (Non-Data plan) phone, to cut back our bill each month.
I'll still have my iPhone just in case i cant take the obsolete-ness of the new one haha.
I realized it was my need to shop, and not my need of cleaning supplies, so I X'ed out and didn't look back.
May try to sell back an old 3g phone to AT&T to get a new (Non-Data plan) phone, to cut back our bill each month.
I'll still have my iPhone just in case i cant take the obsolete-ness of the new one haha.
Sunday, January 16, 2011
16/365
I'm still doing great with my resolutions.
I havent bought anything yet
and continue to get rid of the random things I don't need anymore
Its very liberating.
I packed up 3 leaf bags (the big black ones) of stuff to drop off at a donation box thing.
Once someone we know has a boy, we'll be free of at least 3 more boxes of noah's old clothes.
I'm getting a hair cut in 2 days, so that will be the first time I spend money on myself since the new year.
I havent bought anything yet
and continue to get rid of the random things I don't need anymore
Its very liberating.
I packed up 3 leaf bags (the big black ones) of stuff to drop off at a donation box thing.
Once someone we know has a boy, we'll be free of at least 3 more boxes of noah's old clothes.
I'm getting a hair cut in 2 days, so that will be the first time I spend money on myself since the new year.
Monday, January 10, 2011
10/365
So.. I'm still doing great with my resolutions! Im getting rid of a lot of the stuff we own, but dont want/use anymore, and i havent bought anything yet, besides 1 bra, and a headband (which was on my list of okay things to buy). I'm pretty excited about it, then i remember its only 1/10/11 so... not THAT big of an accomplishment yet, haha.
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