Green Acres Brenham

Valentine Ideas from B.Ellen plus a GIVE AWAY

2012-02-10T20:56:00.000-08:00

b.ellen boutique

25712 Northwest Freeway (Highway 290), Suite G

Cypress, Texas

281.304.7767

www.shopbellen.com

Hours: Monday - Saturday 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Sunday 12:00 - 4:00 p.m.

b. ellen is an adorable shop in Cypress with endless possibilities for great looks everyday, plus GREAT VALENTINE'S DAY gifts. Recently b.ellen boutique became one of thirty-two Fossil Shop in Shops in the United States! Needless to say, b.ellen has an incredible selection of Fossil products.

On top of having a huge selection of Fossil goodies, b.ellen has a ton of great lines to Ooooooohhhhhhh and Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhh over. Virgin, Saints & Angels (VSA) is another of the great lines b.ellens carries. I love it, and there selection is unbelievable. VSA makes a statement of confidence, inspired by fashion, art, beauty and symbolism.

b.ellen also carries Waxing Poetic ( MY FAVORITE), Chamila, Toywatch USA, and many, many, many other jewelry lines that any woman would LOVE to receive on Valentine's Day.

I am a sucker for a product or brand that is not only stylish but supports a great cause. Who doesn't love that, it's a winning situation all around, you look great and help someone at the same time. These bracelets are made from recycled rubber (by women in Djenne, Mali) and roll right on your wrist, but even better is they help children. When your purchase a bundle of bracelets (like the above picture) the purchase enables a child to have care for a day at the "Empire des Enfants" a center for homeless children in Dakar Senegal.

This t-shirt is by ATX and PERFECT for Valentine's Day, what more can I say: LOVE makes my world go around.

b.ellen has an amazing selection of jeans and you don't have to take my word for it because in 2010 KPRC voted and b.ellen was HOUSTON'S BEST BOUTIQUE. They also received Best Boutique in Houston in 2007, 2008, and 2009. In 2009 b.ellen was voted best JEAN store in Houston.

With brands like Miss Me, Rock Revival, and more they will have a fabulous jean to fit you.

Once you find that perfect pair of jeans, don't leave without a great pair of shoes. A few of the shoe brands b.ellen's carries: Sperry Top-siders, UGGS, Sbicca, Old Gringo and I hear they may have a big announcement on shoes soon.

You have your jeans picked out, a great new pair of shoes, why stop there. The clothing selection at b.ellens is always super stylish. JWLA, Double D Ranchwear, Michael Star, Free People, Three Sisters, Charlotte Tarantola to name a FEW of the brands you'll find a b.ellen's.

I am a blanket "lovie" freak. I adore a pretty blanket. This one from Karma Living is turquoise, pink and soft, OHHHHHHHHHH how I want this blanket. b.ellen not only offers fabulous fashions but a wonderful selection of gifts. Consuela is a super HOT line of handbags, totes, makeup bags, pillows, and bedding, frames, boxes and the most stylish magnets I have ever seen. If you remember my closet post I have Consuela magnets on my mirror in my closet. The flower magnets vary in size, color and are made of metal. Consuela also makes a big butterfly magnet and birds, they are inexpensive and addictive. You can not just have one Consuela magnet on our mirror, just like it's hard to have only one Consuela tote. Now the Karma Living Blanket and Consuela products are only the beginning, at b.ellen you will find Jan Barboglio, candles, cosmetics and fragrances.

If you can't afford a Chanel bag ( I can't), then this is an adorable sassy way to show your style.

Thursday Friday totes took iconic handbags and put similar images on canvas totes (several different sizes available, as well as colors and images). I have one of these totes, mine has the iconic Berkin image on it in orange, I had never seen these in Houston or a surrounding town, untill b.ellen. Brandy is on top what's hot!

I had to highlight this Fossil bag, I keep seeing it on Pinterest. Again b.ellen is a Fossil Shop in Shops one of only 32 in the United States.

These GoodWorks wrap bracelets are another one of those products that I love because they give back. They actually give back 25% of there net profit to good causes. This year GoodWorks is supporting charities that provide shelter for families and children affected by domestic violence.

You can look stylish and be helping a good cause all at the same time.

This is my FIRST ever GIVE AWAY! Brandy at b.ellen is so super sweet, she has provided these GREAT items for a my first give away. To win the Consuela cosmetic bag (pink floral with leopard print on sides), Consuela yellow metal magnet and 18 MWL Bracelets (a $90+ dollar value), go to Facebook and "like" B.Ellen Boutique, leave a comment on B.Ellen Boutique's Facebook page that mentions reading about the boutique on Green Acres Brenham Blog, then come back and leave a comment (with your name included) here at Green Acres Brenham. I'll put all the names in a drawing and Valentine's Day we will draw a winner.

Pink Lotion!

2012-01-29T22:10:00.000-08:00

About a year or more ago a nice woman who's husband takes care of my dad's ranch gave me a jar of lotion that she whipped up. She has psoriasis and swears by this lotion, and since I have psoriasis she was nice enough to pass a jar along to me. Now I have to be totally honest and say I was NOT ripping the lid off and lathering up my legs with it, I am very hesitant to use any home remedy on my psoriasis. The likely hood that it will burn and not actually work is far greater than not. I used some but did not stick to it like I should have. My brother and I both have psoriasis and mine had been much more manageable than his, until recently. When you have psoriasis it's genetic, not contagious but is made worse by certain "triggers" like stress, injury, and other things. As much as I hate to admit this, but hopefully it will help others, my stalker situation has created some stress for me (score one for the stalker) and set my psoriasis through the roof. Now, with that being said I am at a point where I will do anything to get some relief from the dry, itchy skin, and so I have made a batch of this lotion in great hopes it will work. I did a google search and found another blogger who has a problem with dry hands and swears by this same mix (she calls her Miracle Lotion). Her blog is Primitive Betty and you can go to it by clicking here www.primitivebettys.blogspot.com

If you have psoriasis or just dry skin this lotion is perfect for you, give it try.

Pink Lotion

You will need:

1 large bottle of Baby Lotion

1 large bottle of Aloe Vera Lotion

1 jar of Vitamin E Cream

1 large jar of Petroleum Jelly

4 Half Pint jars

Plastic bowl for mixing

a mixer

a spatula

Betty (at Primitive Bettys blog) suggest and I totally agree that you should have a mixer, spatula and bowl dedicated to making this lotion. I would NOT recommend using this items to mix food or anything you may eat or drink after making the lotion. Betty (from Primitive Bettys blog) also suggest as well as the nice lady who orginally gave it to me, that the products you buy do not need to be name brand.

I had a hard time trying to get all the baby lotion out by squeezing the bottle, so I cut it in half and used the spatula to scoop it out.

Dump all the ingredients into the bowl and mix until well blended and smooth.

Put in your jars and enjoy. I will be ordering some plastic jars for next time. I am clumsy and I am worried that lotion on my hands and a glass jar might equal disaster (for me anyway).

The jars are adorable.

Check back SOON, my next post will have a consuela give away attached to it. Don't miss out!!!!! A little hint...check out http://www.shopbellen.com/

Margaret's Paintings

2012-01-27T21:48:00.000-08:00

This fall I was at my friend Monica's home in Houston and had the pleasure to meet her cousin's wife, Margaret. How the topic of her painting came up I do not remember, but I am sure glad it did. Margaret is young, adorable and way cooler than I could ever be, plus she had been given this amazing talent. Margaret Alvarez is a full time art teacher at a private school in Houston, where she was born and raised. I love that!!!!! Her mission is to continue to teach and build her painting portfolio. Margaret's students are sooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo lucky, I bet they all adore her. Margaret compares her style of painting to that of the Pop Art movement. To have your precious pet painted by Margaret on a 16" x 20" canvas will cost $125.00, larger portraits are available and range in price from $150 to $300. Commissions vary and range from $175 to $500 depending on size and picture. Another awesome quality Margaret possesses, is that is is super dedicated to her work and can get a painting done in as quick as a week, two weeks at the most. WOW!!!!

Below are several different pictures and the portrait Margaret painted for her clients. To see more of her work and get in contact with Margaret go to http://www.margaretspaintings.com

Of course I had to show you all this one, it's a Yorkie, I'm guessing a female Yorkie from the pony, Rupert would never let us put a pony in his hair, well actually Rialey would never let me put a bow or pony in his hair. I've tried, she had a fit.

I know the types of dogs we have and after that I'm strictly guessing. So, my best guess is that this adorable dog is in the terrier family. I don't know, but who cares he(or she) is so stinking CUTE! Margaret, I love this ONE, the dog, the turquoise, all of it. Cute, cute, cute!!!
Your pet portrait can have any background color you would like.

I had to admit when I saw the picture I was thinking how on earth is she going to make this view of the dog looking up work. She did, and he looks like he's looking right at his owner.

So there is probably a story behind the glasses, and I love how looking at her portrait you just want to squeeze that fluffy sweet dog. Henry saw this pet portrait while I was working on this post and said, "Mom I want one of Sara." Sara is our miniature Schnauzer and I must say she has to be THE PRETTIEST DOG IN THE WORLD!!! We love Rupert (our Yorkie) and Harriet (our Airedale Terrier) and they are precious but hands down Sara is BEAUTIFUL.

I know I have went on and on about the precious pets (sorry I love our animals), but Margaret's work with family portraits is fun, a little quirky (which I love) and they feel full of energy. A little silly with serious, and what combination could be better. I love it, capturing loved ones in a less formal and typical look you might normally see in paintings. Margaret makes the painting feel very special, full of life and happiness. What is not to love about that.

Again she revitalized the picture and created a beautiful piece of art for a family to love and cherish. I have another friend who paints and I have always been jealous of people who have this gift. Everyone sings in the shower and kind of daydreams of being a rock star, but I always thought that being able to use your hands and mind to create beautiful works of art would be my personal rock star moment. Thank you Margaret for sharing your creations with me, I am jealous. I loved to have your wonderful talent. Keep up the great work.

Check out more of Margarets work at www.margaretspaintings.com

spring and summer must haves

2012-01-09T21:32:00.000-08:00

Winter has not exactly hit here yet and I already have spring fever. I can NOT wait for spring and summer. In missing the spring flowers and summer sun a few things came to mind. I like to switch out a few accessories in my home and lighten the atmosphere.

A big fluffy down pillow with a linen cover is light and feels fresh, and these were incredible finds on http://www.etsy.com/ (shop: cottage and cabin). I believe they were two for sixty dollars, and they HUGE They remind me of spring, the soft linen and color. They look fabulous in our family room and lighten up the couch.

Moroccan Straw Tote, these bags are little rustic, simple and (google Moroccan straw tote), they SCREAM spring and summer. I am addicted to them. They are incredibly inexpensive and super stylish.

Buy good knives and you will never regret it. These are from Laguiole (a French company), they have the little fly on them. I have the same knives but with a wood handle. Laguiole products have a cross on the side of the handle (the Three Bishops Cross), at the top of the handle, a fly is present on each piece (respresenting Aubrac Cows herds flies) some will tell you it's a bee. Laguiole not only make knives but flatware, wine openers, cheese knives and spreaders, champagne saber, cigar cutters, and lots of other interesting items.

Check them out at www.laguiole-attitude.com/french-knives

I have had a white kitchen aid mixer for fifteen years and this Christmas season I think I made one batch of icing to many, because now it acts like the the bowl is going to fly off the stand because the paddle is hitting the sides. I HAVE NO IDEA WHAT HAPPENED.. After fifteen years I can not complain.

I gave these to a couple of people this Christmas (but monogrammed in red and one in turquoise), they are two quart acrylic drink pitchers. We drink a lot of strawberry lemonade (the children love it) and it measures and holds the perfect amount. To find this pitchers (for about $24) go to http://www.etsy.com/ then search for the store Lime Tree Gifts, they did a flawless job and shipped super fast. This pitcher will be great to take outside for a spring dinner with the family and no one has to worry about it breaking.

Everyone should own white linens and these are a perfect update on a linen placemat and napkin. The tiny ruffle edge is simple but elegant. They are by Charlie Linen Napkins by Pom Pom At Home.

I love cheese and if I could break up with all things cheese my butt would shrink in size automatically. So since I've added a personalized spreader to this list, you can gather I can not turn my back (or big butt) on all things cheese. These adorable spreaders are made of vintage butter spreaders and you can have anything put on them. I found these earlier in December and ordered some for a friend. To find them go to http://www.etsy.com/ and search for the store Blithe Village. They would be precious at a picnic in your Longaberger basket.

Does everyone I know have these glasses??? Maybe not everyone but at least seventy-five percent of the women I know do. The main reason they are so popular is obvious, the bee is lovely and the shape, weight and look for the glass is a classic that will hang around for years to come. You can find the Bee Tumblers at http://www.balldarddesigns.com/

If you have not seen or heard of Vagabond products, run to your computer and google it, FAST!!! The above Vagabond is their Bird Cheese Stand ( it retails for $315.00). This was a gift and I can not wait to use it. More Vagabond products are available online and locally at Leftovers Antiques, you can go directly to the Vagabond website http://www.vagabondhouse.com/ Vagabond is, in my opinion the updated version of arthur court products (those are pretty too).

iomoi cocktail napkins

The colors on these cocktail napkins are some of my favorites and we have over ten horses so show me pink, throw in a horse bit, add linen and an initial and I am SOLD. You can find these online at http://www.iomoi.com/

Yes it's retro, but how stinking cute is this radio!!!!!! On a picnic, at the pool, it is THE summer must have for a mom of two who can not get enough time in at the pool. Roberts Revival Radio can be purchased directed from them online or Anthropolie all for about $199.00

If you are looking for a wicker chair then this is the one to get, the Kooboo chair. Everywhere I look, read, google, this chair appears. It is sturdy, stylish, afforable and easy to find (World Market for $129.00).

Everyone pulls out the sterling for holidays, special occassions and parties. I use mine all the time, because...well why Not? Francis the First does however remind of spring, the fruit and flowers.

Light and airy, beautiful with delicate details, these Juliska cake/dessert stands are the picture pecfect addition to any home. Find them at http://www.juliska.com/

I have blogged about this basket/tote before, but it is still my all time favorite summer accessory. Made by Longaberger it is handwoven wood (not straw) with a leather handle (each Longaberger piece is signed and dated on the bottom), you could also purchase a removeable hard plastic liner (which makes it great to ice down drinks and use at a party, pool, etc...). This particular basket/tote is the Large Boardwalk Basket and I believe it is currently unavailable but thanks to the wonderful world of ebay, you could probably still find one ( I have found them on ebay for gifts). Check out Longaberger for other great baskets.

This is the Jon Hart Big Chill, I have it pink and OOOOooooohhhhhhhhhh it is CuTe!!!!! Carry your drinks to the pool, on the boat, any gathering. It is made of durable coated canvas and leather in San Antoino,Texas, each piece can be monogrammed and comes in almost every color under the rainbow. The Big Chill is $267.00, thank goodness mine was a gift a couple of years ago. To find a retailer near you or order directly from jon Hart Designs go to http://www.jonhartdesign.com/

Just a list things I adore, I'd love to hear what screams spring and summer to you.

Organized Hoarding

2012-01-01T19:56:00.000-08:00

During all the holiday festivities I was at friends home who lives locally and I have known for years, we spend lots of time together and do all kinds of interesting things (that could be a whole separate blog) on this day she had family and a few friends over and the topic of her new closet came up. She added on this wonderful, almost fantasy closet (at least a fancy for women) this past year and any new visitor to her home can't wait to run to the closet. Shannon's sister in law is a very popular blogger, Joni Webb from http://www.cotedetexas.blogspot.com/ and she had just asked Shannon if she could take pictures and blog about her closet, so off to closet we ran! While fluffing up her closet for pictures Shannon mentioned to Joni that while my closet was small it was great and might be fun for readers to see both the large and dreamy closet and the small, compact and practical closet. Joni agreed and my stomach did a flip ( I knew my closet had just been through the holiday season and was NOT ready for photos). We all fluffed and tinkered around in Shannon's closet and Joni and I both thought it would be fun for our readers to see both closet from two different views, hers and mine. So go to http://www.cotedetexas.blogspot.com/ to see Joni's blog of the two closets.

So, since Joni sparked the closet post, I decided that I would try to go about my post giving my readers some tips and pictures to organize their own closets. Any closet can look fantastic and size is not the factor to a fabulous closet. I understand that most women do not have a walk in closet or a room dedicated to all things Tory Burch but every woman can have their space be pretty, organized and functional. Take some time, and purge a little (or a lot), decide what will go back into your closet and make a list of how many and what size baskets or containers you will need, throw in a few personal decorative items, and work on getting it all back into your closet in a organized and pretty fashion (or hire me and I'll do it for you, I literally love organizing, redecorating, overall I love making all things functional and pretty) The biggest thing to consider when you get ready to start your closet make-over(or operation drab to fab) is fitting it to your life and style.

Don't forget to go to Joni's blog and see her post on both closets. http://www.cotedetexas.blogspot.com/

First up: Shannon's Closet (I should have done mine first, her closet is a tough act to follow and mine really is no comparison, only a view of the smaller more compact space).

Shannon's closet would be considered by most over the top, a dream, a wonderland. I'm still not sure how she leaves it everyday! I'm convinced if I had my laptop, a mini refrigerator full of diet coke and a pillow I would lock the door and never leave!!!!!!

Upon opening the doors this is your first look at Shannon's closet. So inviting!!!!!

The mirror is a great fine on a Round Top trip from two years ago, but Shannon knew she loved it and because she did, she knew it would work somewhere in her home (at the time she did not have this closet) . I have to say that in the past two years that mirror has been all over Shannon's house looking for it's forever space and when the closet addition was started, right away she knew exactly where it would be hung for the last time. The lesson, buy what you LOVE and either work around it or build around it.

If you are standing with the mirror (from the above picture) at your back this is your view (part of it anyway). Shannon's closet is about 18 feet by 13 feet with 13ish foot ceiling (I know sounds like it should be 12 foot ceilings, but I asked Shannon to double check) and full of color, with a chandelier that is as colorful as the closet itself, and in the center is this wonderful peninsula with jewelry storage on one side and cabinets for additional storage on the other. If you look close at the picture you will see the Consuela boxes and crosses and even a Consuela magnet on the hat of the Catrina skeleton mirror all of Shannon's Consuela products were purchased at a local shop, Antique Gypsy (on Alamo Street in the middle of downtown Brenham) the owner Mary Ellen is precious and we LOVE her. If you stop by tell her Tikaa said,"Hi."

The candle is by NEST and smells like a fresh bar of soap, clean and yummy! You can find NEST candles at Kuhl Linscomb (2424 West Alabama, Houston)

Behind the Catrina mirror is hanging storage for dresses and blouses, and of course on top of the hanging storage is even more room to store luggage. NOT an inch of this space is wasted.

In front of the island is this great bench. I've seen it used for holding Shannon's luggage when packing for a trip, or friends gathering around during a party. Yes, we have been known to hang out in the closet and have a few drinks. No, Shannon does not have a full time tequila bar in her closet but when fluffing the closet we thought "why not." When you get to my closet look for the mini version of the tequila bar.

On the right side of the island is jewelry storage (as well as the top). The pink and cream colored containers are from Target. You can find them with the hangers, irons, etc... You will see the same ones in my closet as well as the black velvet bracelet stands. The jewelry containers are great, they come in an assortment of options, with lots of sections, only a few sections, spots for rings, earrings, necklaces, and on and on. The best part is they stack on top of each other perfectly.

The other side of the island is for sweater storage, scarfs, or anything that you might want to fold and find quickly. The cabinet doors have glass fronts, which helps when searching for sweaters or scarfs.

This is a view from the back of Shannon's closet. It's a much better view of the beautiful mirror and all the great shoe storage and of course the television. Another fun tip, to make a piece of furniture a little more fun and interesting add some great drawer pulls. Anthropology and even Hobby Lobby have some GREAT drawer pulls and changing out a standard drawer pull for a more interesting and fun one is something anyone with a screwdriver can do.

I love the shelves, which will be obvious in my closet. The baskets (which are made out of banana leaf) are again from Target and located close to the hampers and plastic organizing bins. Perfect way to store make up bags, evening bags, straw handbags, travel necessities, etc... I use the same baskets in my pantry, Target carries a variety of sizes and they range in price from ten to twenty dollars.

A closer look at all things Tory.

We are still on the same side of the closet, Shannon loves, loves, loves her cowboy boots and she has an incredible collection. The boot storage is about three feet wide and thirteen feet tall. Three pairs of cowboy boots per shelf, thirteen feet high, that's a LOT of cowboy boots. I am a lucky friend, we wear the same size shoe!!!

Now the other side of the closet, Shannon's dressing table is located to the right of the island on the same side as all the jewelry. Before her closet was added on this year the dressing table was located in her bedroom. It has been in her family forever as well as the mirror and sconces. Her family has to be the BEST at saving all the right things for later use. Shannon recently informed me that her dressing table was the first piece of furniture she bought at auction from Hart Gallery in 1978 while still in High School. Another perfect example of "buy what you love." I bet Michelle Fritz made the slipcover for her stool, Michelle's information can be found below in my closet.

Another look at her dressing table. who wouldn't want to put their make up on and fix their hair in that spot each morning.

I took this picture 500 times, but I can't competed with the sun and didn't have time to come back at a different time of day. Anyway, the piece of furniture was bought to use in the closet and then the closet was built to accommodate it, so again it is said, "buy what you love." The brown crocodile handbag (second shelf on right) has been in Shannon's family since the 40's and the zebra tote was at one time Joni's from http://www.cotedetexas.blogspot.com/ Shannon and Joni are sister in laws.

Speaking of Joni, I believe the Burberry scarf was a birthday gift from Joni (Shannon recently celebrated her 50th birthday). If you look close at the leather belt (far left), that was a gift from a collection of friends for Shannon's 40th birthday, custom made by Clint Orms.

The top of the island and all of Shannon's wonderful jewelry.The gemstone mirror was a gift from Donna (the owner of Southern Rose Bed and Breakfast, Joni just did a post all about the beautiful Southern Rose Bed and Breakfast, which you can read at http://www.cotedetexas.blogspot.com/). Or check out Southern Rose Bed and Breakfast directly at http://www.southernroseranch.com/

If you know me then you know I always say when it comes to jewelry, if one is good then ten is better. Well with Shannon if one is good then every color and style is better. The question we both then ask, "Does this ring come in a bigger style" we don't mean size, we adore large rings. Yes, to those reading this and not from Texas we do all wear boots, big jewelry and cowboy hats.

At one point during all the pictures one of the five English Springer Spaniel's came in to take a nap. Kila is the oldest of the pack and in my opinion the sweetest.

This is also a better picture of the rug found in Round Top this past fall at The Arbor, only reason I know or remember is I was with Shannon when she found it and it rained (which is memorable enough since we rarely get rain)

Next up, my room and closet.

My room is not fancy and rather low key, especially for me but if you have seen the rest of my house then you would agree this is low key. The rest of my home is busy and I love it but once I am ready to head to my master suite I like very little fuss and kind of an untouched and simple style.

The bedding is a mix of Horchow, Pine Cone Hill (purchased at Leftovers Antique), and Target. Oh, the red throws were purchased at Leftovers Antique too ( I have those out from the holidays). The chandelier still have the berry accents on each of the eighteen arms of the chandelier. They are actually red berry napkin rings I slipped over each bulb, I did the same on the sconces (you will see in another picture) and every chandelier in my home for the holidays

The Chair and ottoman I have had since High School and a couple of years ago I had Michelle Fritz,

make slipcovers in white linen. You can find Michelle at http://www.michellefritz.blogspot.com/ she lives locally, her blog is not current but you can get her contact information.

Again when I say simple, I mean it! No curtains, no art on the walls, just paint (rice grain is the color) and a few pieces of furniture. The bench is slip covered in linen also done by Michelle Fritz.

A few things are a must next to my bed, my Louis Vuitton agenda (a Christmas gift from the Judge two years ago) , laptop( I blog in bed, late at night) and iPhone ( I use the alarm on it). The lamp has a matching partner on the judges side of the bed (which is the only thing on his side of the bed). I must admit blogging in bed is my favorite place to blog. The rose and metal tray is Jan Barboglio, and the Louis Vuitton backpack was a Christmas/Birthday gift this year from my parents. I bet I have had that tole tray (using as a table at moment) for at least fifteen years. I love the lamps, but I'm not in love with their location at the moment, I had a pair of clear, solid crystal urn shaped lamps from Ballard Designs next to the bed but I found their forever location in our home early this year.These lamps are lovely and I adore them, but the room is large and with little to nothing interesting going on. A pair of statement lamps are exactly what I need. There are two navy blue lamps that are BEAUTIFUL at Leftovers Antiques (3900 Highway 290West, Brenham,Texas). Make Leftovers Antiques a MUST stop if you are coming through Brenham, I swear they are better than Blue Bell Ice Cream (Blue Bell is fantastic). Stop by Blue Bell get everyone a scoop of ice cream and eat it on your drive over to Leftovers.

The view from across my bed, again simple, simple, simple. I love the silicone light bulbs on my sconces (you can get them at Kuhl Linscomb for about $3each, located at 2424 West Alabama, Houston,Texas). I am packed to the max in my closet so I keep my cowboy boots right under the television. They really are to pretty and interesting to hide. Notice the sconces and the berry accents.

The view upon entering my master suite. Normally I would have the door closed to my closet but since this is eventually leading to seeing the inside of my closet I thought leaving it open for the picture was the best idea.

Eventually I would love to have a sea grass rug under my bed.

Here it is, the small version of an organized closet, even thought as I type this and look at the picture I'm afraid the organized part might be questionable. On closer look you will see it is actually

organized. But it is about 13 feet long and 6 feet wide. Trust me NO hanging out or parties are being held in my closet, I'm pretty sure the Fire Marshall would declare a maxim capacity of 1 and our Airedale Terrier, Harriet would not have enough room to lay down and nap.

The fox fur vest hanging toward the front of the closet was once a coat (from the late 70's), and for the record I did not purchase the coat ( I did have a rabbit fur coat in the late 70's and I thought I was awesome when I wore it, I was 8 years old) but I kind of came into ownship of the coat by accident and decided that it would look great as a vest, so I took it and had it repurposed into a vest for the whopping expense of ten dollars. It looks great with a black turtleneck and silver jewelry. My kids are totally grossed out by it (because it use to be an animal) but it reminds me of my 8 year old self in my awesome rabbit coat.

I LOVE bracelets and had to get creative on how to store all the bracelets I have. So I decided to try this, a clear over the door shoe organizer and it works perfectly.

In this picture you can see the jewelry trays (again from Target) and black velvet bracelet stands, which I also use for watches. Yes, I was addicted to white watches. Hanging is my collection of Louise Vuitton hangbags that I have been collecting forever, my first was when I was a junior in High School a Speedy (and I still have it, actually my daughter has it).

On my shelves are my absolutely favorite bracelets.

A wider look, tons of shelves (from floor to ceiling), organizing trays and baskets. Notice the Holly Hobby metal lunch kit on the shelf ( it has a heart next to it). I had this exact one as a little girl, and again I thought it was AWWWWWWWWWWWWWWESOME, I came across this one and thought for twenty bucks I could use it for storage in my closet and be reminded of a great memory. I'm pretty sure that lunch kit and my second grade teacher Mrs. Sonz at Wainwright Elementary go hand in hand. She was teacher I'll never forget.

At eye level when you first enter my closet I keep my lotion, perfume and delicate necklaces. I also keep paper and pen handy, it works great when packing, I can jot things down so they don't get left behind.

Baskets are great for organizing almost anything. In this picture you can see I used baskets to organize my sunglasses, cosmetic bags, jewelry bags, travel accessories, gloves, and john hart.

Again baskets are used on this end of the closet to organize shoes.

The other side of my closet is for clothes, two bars for shorter things and a section for longer items. I'm tall so when I did this closet I had my top bar hung higher than average for maxium usage of space. What you can not see is below my section of dresses I have larger baskets for hangbags I use less often and my luggage. That was an advantage to hanging the bar higher for my clothes, I could use the space under the dresses and maxize every inch of useable space.

This is the back wall of my closet, a small chest, my ipad charging, and a fun mirror found in San Antoino with consuela magnets added for interest. The lamp is an old sugar bowl and uses a night light bulb, it stays on almost always.

A closer look. See the mini tequila bar. I had to add this after Shannon put the tequila bar in her closet.

I love straw handbags, and have a little collection stored on the back shelf of my closet in the fall and they get moved forward for part of the spring and the entire summer. In my straw handbag collection you will find Bossom Buddie straw bags, Longaberger wooden woven bag (with the exact bag only smaller inside) and a few misc. woven bags.

I pull out this over the door hanger when I am packing for a trip to organize outfits or when getting ready for a fun, special event. This one was about eight dollars at Walmart and has six hooks on it.

One last little organizing item to share. I got both of these for Christmas (great gift), they are perfect for organizing all my makeup, moisturizers, lip gloss, basically all things girlie. My house is older and my bathroom is small, so this was a great fix for me. Not exactly sure where to find them but I'm sure you can google arylic make up organizer and a ton will probably appear.

I hope you were able to get a few ideas for your own closet. Again I am available for hire, contact me throught my email. Start the new year off organized and fabulous.

check out Joni's view of the same two closets at

http://www.cotedetexas.blogspot.com/

I can't wait to read your comments, it's easy to do, click on comments and box will appear for your to leave your thoughts. Don't worry if you don't see them on my blog immediately, they take a bit to appear.

HAPPY NEW YEAR

Day of the Dead Gourd

2011-12-27T20:50:00.000-08:00

A very talented friend of mine, Sharon recently painted this huge gourd for another friends birthday. I have seen many different things Sharon has painted from adorable Easter eggs, wine glasses, furniture, and paintings of beautiful flowers on canvas, and on and on. This gourd is gigantic (and was grown locally) and the details are AMAZING. I would say that the Talavera design and Day of the Dead Skull are not her favorite to paint which makes this even more incredible, but Sharon knew the birthday girl loves all things from Mexico.

A closer look, every inch of the gourd is covered in extreme detail. Sharon didn't keep track of exactly how long it took her to paint the gourd but she did say it took many, many days and tons of time. On top of it all she kept it a complete secret from everyone. Even as I look at the photos now I am in aaahhhhhh of her talents and the time she dedicated to this piece. It is not only beautiful to look at but touching as well.

I will be going back to the gourd to take more photos, closer pics of the details, the back, the bottom, the skull. I am jealous, this was a labor of love without a doubt. Sharon is a great friend, amazingly talented and a blast to be around.

She might kill me for adding her photo, but she is beautiful and I love this picture of her and her son.

A Few Christmas Decorations

2011-12-04T00:45:00.000-08:00

All the Decorations are up and all the trees are decorated. Yeah!!!!! Here are a few photos I was able to take tonight before me camera battery went dead.

Today I had the Judge hang three towel bars for me in my kitchen (he thought I lost my mind). Then I hung some of my favorite Christmas linens. Don't worry I have plenty to hang after the holidays, I love a pretty linen. Who doesn't.

One of the mantels with my collection of Vintage Santa Pitchers, Santa Mugs and tons of ornaments (balls) and ribbon. The decorations in this room are more whimsical and light hearted and the polka dots and Santa's are a perfect fit.

Christmas crackers are wildly popular at our house. The children love them and why I have no idea, they are filled with basically nothing. I'm not getting that excited over a plastic paper clip or an yo-you the size of a dime, but they really seem to enjoy them and so I buy them and we pop away. I plan to make some this year and fill them with fun and exciting treats. Second check out the GREAT deal from Horchow.com (recently), the place setting is monogrammed with a "C" on each piece (dinner plate, salad plate, soup bowl, cup and saucer) all done in white with a simple silver border. The best part is a 20 piece place setting is $67.00, what an incredible deal, and from HORCHOW. The best part was mine were a gift (thanks Mom). I like the initials, it's a treat and fun for everyday, special occasion or no reason at all. I love them. They only come in white with silver and not every letter is available. Check out Horchow for yours www.horchow.com

Candy, Candy, Candy!!!

No we do not eat all this candy, but I am a sucker for any kind of Holiday candy (not just Christmas candy). It's fun, yummy and absolutely precious. A foiled Santa screams Christmas tradition,Gingerbread House is a must, ribbon candy is one of those that I have no idea how it taste and it is a huge challenge getting it out of the box without breaking most of it but I can't imagine Christmas without it.

Another look at the candy, I also love mercury glass for Christmas. The mercury glass on the table is from Pottery Barn, don't forget the candles when ordering they are not a standard size. www.potterybarn.com

A simple skirted table (made by Michelle Fritz) next to the couch. On top you will see a Marye-Kelley decoupaged plate and tissue box cover, www.marye-kelley.com, she has the prettiest decoupaged things. If you are in Houston she has a store front or you can find her items online or at her GREAT booth at the Houston Nutcracker Market. Also on the table are three bowls of small simple red ornaments. The lamp shade is a custom made linen by Michelle Fritz. You can contact Michelle Fritz through her blog MAKE at michellefritz.blogspot.com

Ooops I should have removed those roses they are looking a little icky.

These are only a few little peeks at my Christmas decorations, I'll post more soon. I'm, working on two blogs on stocking stuffer ideas and a million other things, plus I must find a job. I hope they grammar in this post was not too horrific, it's 2:30 a.m. and I'm exhausted. Have a great weekend.

Cosmetic Cult Classics - Great Stocking Stuffers

2011-12-02T02:37:00.000-08:00

When thinking about Christmas stockings this year, I thought it would be fun to get a stocking full of all the Classic Cosmetics. Through the years the following have continued to make the list of cult classics and for good reason.

YSL Touche Eclat is an amazing concealer that light reflecting and gives you a bright eye, restful look. ONE of my favorites, $40 at Neiman Marcus

Rosebud Salve

Probably one of the least flashest items on the list but your lips will love you and have an incredible shine and sheen for about $6.00 at any drug store.

Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream

Talk about tried and true, this cream has been around since 1930 and was developed by Elizabeth Arden to soften her Thoroughbreds legs! If you know my daughter, that alone is reason enough to buy it. Available anywhere Elizabeth Arden is sold about $17.00 for 1.7 ounce or online at elizabetharden.com I have to admit the smell is a little strong for me. But again it's been around since 1930 so they are doing something right at Elizabeth Arden.

Coty Airspun powder

Although not one of the products I use, it does have a huge following and has since 1935. Available at Walgreen's for about $7.00

Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion

Who wasn't introduced to Clinique as their first experience with makeup, cleansers and moisturizers. It's light weight, great all around moisturizer. I can still remember going to the Clinique counter to purchases my first bottle. Available at major department stores where Clinique is sold for $22.00

Stila Kitten Eyeshadow

What can you say, it's a neutral beige with a glint of gold and looks great on all. $18.00

Bobbie Brown Foundation Stick

Available anywhere Bobbi Brown is sold and online www.bobbibrowncosmetics.com

$40 and flawless

Nars blush in Orgasm

Available anywhere Nars is sold and online http://www.narscosmetics.com/

Wildly popular because for $27 who doesn't want a healthy glow that looks great on all complexions.

Maybeilline Great Lash

How do you argue with Americas Favorite Mascara for over 40 years. Plus it's available at all drug stores for $6. I started my love of Mascara with Maybeilline Great Lash and have since fell in love with another, but once in a while I can't resist picking up a tube of the pink and green mascara.

MAC Matte Lipstick

Two things I'm not leaving the house without - Mascara and Lipstick (or lip gloss) and MAC matte lipstick is fabulous and top it with a little MAC lip gloss and it's heavenly. MAC counters are popping up everywhere, most major department stores and of course online http://www.maccosmetics.com/. The best is going to the MAC store or counter because the sales ladies are great, beyond helpful and will whip out a disposable lip gloss sponge or lip brush in second for you to try on colors till you find the perfect one, or two

The matte lipstick is $14.50

Mason Pearson Hair Brush

I do like to where a pony a few days a week and this brush will give you the best pony tail not to mention all over great style on any kind of good hair day. It's pricey but it's your hair we are talking about.

Mason Pearson Brushes are available at Neiman Marcus and online they range from $60 to $150.

Yardley of London English Lavender Soap

Available at drugstores, I just purchased some at Walgreen's and it is only about $1.50

Smells yummmmmmmmmmmmmmy and works great to open a bar and put in your closet or drawer.

http://www.Kiels.com/

Kiehl's Creme with Silk Groom moisturizes, protects, and conditions hair for an optimal styling experience. Formulated with Silk Powders and naturally-absorbed oils and moisturizers derived from Wheat Protein, Soy Protein, and Jojoba Oil, this non-greasy grooming aid has become world-renowned for its silky smoothness and superior efficacy. $18.00 for 4.2 ounces

First metal free ponytail holder and every shade imaginable to match every hair color. $4.00 at drugstores.

Aquaphor Healing Ointment

with only seven ingredients it's safe for everyone.

$7.50 at drugstores

Essie Nail Polish in Mademoiselle, natural looking and a perfect no color, color. $8.00 at drugstores

CND Solar Oil

Introduced in 1981, a time tested all around incredible cuticle oil, and this time of year who couldn't use it.

$9.00 at drugstores.

OPI Nail Lacquer in Lincoln Park After Dark, richly colored grape shade $6.00 anywhere OPI is sold

Chanel Nail Colour in VAMP

Great color especially this time of year, I love it. Created back in 1994 for Chanel's Fall collection it has stuck since. $25 where Chanel is sold (major department stores).

L'Oreals Elnet hairspray has been around forever and loved by many. It's not my fav but it does get on the list of classics. It holds but the smell is odd to me. Its about $15 and available at drugstores.

Next are a few of my personal favorites

On day while on the Internet I stumbles across Fresh Beauty Studio by Nikol Johnson, she has a great make up blog Fresh Beauty Studio. She is constantly updating it with step by step tutorials on make up applications, from everyday looks to red carpet glamour. She has her own cosmetic line - Fresh Beauty Studio and uses lots of her own products in her tutorials but also uses tons of other brands, which I love. We all do it, use all kinds of brands of cosmetics, cleaners, etc,,, Above is by Fresh Beauty Studio and is called Gold Digger and I love the colors (eyes and cheeks), they can be applied more natural and worn for a pretty day look or with them you can glamorize your eyes for a fabulous evening look.

Another pretty set by Fresh Beauty Studio - called Stars in Your Eyes. I have this one to and love it. All of Nikol's cosmetics are available online at http://www.freshbeautystudio.com/

Her lip gloss is beautiful and she has ton of pretty neutral shades.

YSL Mascara, is my all time FAVORITE. I love mascara, to a fault. I LOVE IT. It is my favorite cosmetic.

It's starting to get cooler and with that along come dry skin, I have two favorite when it come to lotion. One is Kiehl's Creme de Corps, it works great, but is a little greasy. I like this one at night.

The other lotion I like this time of year is Triple Lanolin. It is an OLD SCHOOL product and be around FOREVER!!!! It works!

Everyone should have a personal signature fragrance. One that is a reflection of your style, scent and something beautiful you become known by. Mine is Chanel No.5 and has been for more than 8 years. What's yours???

How much fun would it be to get a stocking filled with all the classic cult cosmetics plus some of your own personal favorites. Merry Christmas.

Elf On The Shelf

2011-11-30T20:01:00.000-08:00

Elf On A Shelf ( www.elfontheshelf.com )is a fun, family tradition. If you are new to Elf On The Shelf the quick run down is; Santa sends his scout elves out to the adoption centers where they wait for their families to bring them home. Each family gives their elf a name (ours is Sheldon, from The Big Bang Theory my children think he's a genius) and registers their adoption online (optional). The elf is Santa's eyes and ears. Each night your elf uses his magical powers to fly back to the North Pole and report the daily activities to Santa. Once back from the North Pole your elf will appear in a different location than where he was originally left. Elves like games and hide and seek is a favorite. There is no telling where you might find your elf. On Christmas Eve the scout elves listen for Santa and fly back to the North Pole not to be seen till next season.

Below are a few fun ideas for your Elf On A Shelf.

Picture of Sheldon (our elf) roasting marshmallows (don't leave the candle lit).

Sheldon hiding in the cabinet with all the Christmas dishes to surprise the children in the morning.

Sheldon hiding out in the Christmas candy bar.

At the dinner table.

In Rialey's morning cup at the Hot Chocolate station. Yummy!

Sheldon playing in the toilet paper, Henry will think this one is funny.

Hanging from the chandelier.

Hide your elf in a collection.

Or in your Christmas decorations.

Of course all elves like stockings.

You can't forget a letter to Santa.

Some additional ideas for your Elf:

playing cards

playing a board game with other toys

couch potato (sitting on couch with remote and popcorn)

having milk and cookies

making faces on a picture of your children.

hiding in the freezer (reminds the elves of the North Pole)

Have fun with your elf, and let me know what great ideas you have for your elf.

Glamazon GIrls Night

2011-08-22T22:15:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday we had a Glamazon Girl Party for a night of mommy fun. The night was full of glitter, falsh eyelashes and lip gloss. We had a great time, I highly recommend gathering your girlfriends and hanging out with a tray full of makeup madness.

This was the table for our night of glittery fun. Place for each guest, each had their mirror, makeup brushes, and as party favors we ( I had a co-host) gave each guest Mascara, Eyeliner and Lip gloss as well as a pair of diamond earrings. I'd mention my co-host name and the guest but with the recent stalker problems I think keeping their names anonymous is probably better.

The table was so cute, we had silver bowls full of false eyelashes (some to put on and extras to take home), makeup sponges, glitter, mini tissues and q-tips and silver containers for trash. Sprinkled all down the table were big diamonds (paper weights, I used once before for a birthday party themed "Diamonds are a Girls Best Friend").

Another touch were these towels I soaked and rolled up that morning and chilled in the refrigerator. They felt so good!

Every party needs a snack. I tried to keep it all light and health, but some bad mad in the mix. I did a mix of cheeses, grapes, strawberries, a goat cheese and basil, carrots and hummus, green beans, soy beans and lots of other yummy treats.

Another look at our light and yummy treats.

I'd love to show some of the pictures of during the party (the before and during of the makeup application) but we decided it wasn't happening. I'll show one of mine, a moment of silliness with the painting in the early stages.

This is not the best picture quality (taken with my iPhone in a hurry), but it is a look of the "after"

The first photo is also "after" It was a silly, relaxed and fun night. Give it try with your girlfriends.

End of Summer

2011-08-15T08:53:00.000-07:00

In two short months Green Acres Brenham will be two years old. I can't believe it, the time has zipped by and more surprising was the amount of great followers I have. I never expected it, Green Acres Brenham started on a whim one evening and grew from my first post. I have several hundred to thousands of visitors a day, had many wonderful offers and experiences through Green Acres Brenham and met lots of wonderful people. Southern Living Magazine even follows my blog on twitter and has asked to photograph my home and ideas. It's been a great experience. I had no idea.
Today's post is short and sweet an end of summer recipe and a travel destination to visit for fabulous ideas (not to mention it's my favorite place to retreat to). Both ideas today are from two of my FAVORITE magazines Southern Living and Martha Stewart Living, I'll post their sites with the information I would not want someone thinking I plagiarized anything, plus it's not everyday we can all be creative and have original ideas one after the other.
First up,

Southern Living's 2011 IDEA HOUSE

If you have the opportunity to visit one of the Southern Living Idea Houses, GO!!!!! I have in the past and they are great to see, so imagine my excitement when the 2011 Southern Living Idea House was in Horseshoe Bay, Texas. If you know me, than you know our favorite place to relax is Horseshoe Bay. We have had a townhouse their for about eleven years and we love everything about it. If you are a water/outdoors family and love boating, the lake, tennis, golf, fishing, watching the deer and all in a beautiful setting then Horseshoe Bay is a trip you need to plan. If you plan a trip then go before October 4 and you can see the Southern Living Idea House, it's located off FM 2147 (plenty of signs).

The Idea House is open Wednesday-Saturday from 11:00a.m. - 5:00p.m. and Sunday from 1:00p.m.-5:00p.m., closed Monday and Tuesday. Admission is $10,if you can't make it to the Idea House, go to www.southernliving.com and watch the tour. How they keep it so perfect when 20,000 people will have gone through it by October 4th, I have no idea. It's a challenge with four people in my house.

Next today is a quick Martha Stewart Living recipe, who doesn't love Martha. You can find this recipe at

www.marthastewart.com search

Summer Fruit Sangria

Choose a white wine (Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio), mix in orange liqueur, fresh ginger, lemon juice, basil or mint leaves. Add fruit (pineapples, peaches, etc..) It's all a matter of personal taste on how much you'd like to throw in and it can be made a day in advanced.

To all my followers, enjoy the Southern Living Idea House (either in person or online) and let me know how the Summer Fruit Sangria was. I was (maybe still will) planning a tutorial on making bows, people ask offend "how to" make bows for their packages (I love a pretty bow on a gift). I am thinking about hosting the tutorial in my workroom and have a hands on experience, you can sign up online. My only concern is security and safety, recently I acquired a stalker and they know where I live, etc.(I do not know who they are, crazy how that works they can stalk you and get to stay anonymous hence my hesitation to host a tutorial in my workroom).. It's a very scary situation and authorities have been notified, at first it kind of cracked me up, but I should have taken their comments, threats, etc... more serious. Keeping our precious children safe at any and all means necessary is our first priority (wouldn't it be for any parent). We are and life continues (but with caution and extra safety measures).

Thank you to all my followers. Enjoy the end of summer.

Tres Chic Thursday

2011-08-03T07:39:00.000-07:00

TRES CHIC THURSDAY

Located on the square in downtown Brenham, Texas you can find pieces of local history in every corner. Brenham is a town where seeing someone you know walking down the street is common, every restaurant serves Blue Bell ice cream and the retail stores know you by first name. I must give all the local Brenham businesses a HUGE high five, two thumbs up, and even five gold stars for customer services, our small town has been getting a few of the big city chains but they can not compare to the superior customer service you will receive from shopping locally. I have a few personal favorites (and they are my favs for reasons of personal style) but the first place I'm hitting in Brenham is always Tres Chic Boutique (201 East Main, Brenham,TX). What should I say about Tres Chic Boutique.....first they have Big City fashion and style but with small town charm, appeal, and AMAZING customer service, a brand and style for everyone,from head to toe they have it, knowledgable and friendly staff, a coffee bar ( or my personal fav a diet coke), and the owners Stacey and Mary Ann (mother/daughter) are local women who gave Brenham the boutique we needed and love! When you head to Brenham (or if you live local) make Tres Chic Boutique as much a dedicated stop as the Blue Bell ice cream tour.

This Thursday, August 4th is a PERFECT time to head over to Tres Chic Boutique between
10:00a.m. and 4:00p.m.
for
The Trunk Show Event @ TRES CHIC.
It will be a day full of the latest trends for fall and give aways!!!!!
Come see the what's in for fall with:
Sharon Young Design (clothes, clothes, clothes)
Tru Luxe Jeans ( the name alone is a LOVE)
Stella & Dot Jewelry

I've been told jeans and jewlery are in the give away,that cupcakes and customer service are being served on silver platters and fun fall fashions are what the day is about. Don't worry about the heat outside, one thing I forgot to mention earlier is Stacey keeps Tres Chic so cold I swear you could hang meat in the store. Which if you're from Texas you know that is a HUGE PLUS!!!!

Silver Trays

2011-07-26T09:59:00.000-07:00

Silver Trays are timeless, elegant and look classic and indulgent but can be completely affordable, especially on eBay,thrift stores and of course the Round Top Antiques Festival. I have never paid much, definitely not over fifty dollars and that was maybe on one or two. Some of my favorite silver trays and pieces I have found for less than ten dollars.

What a great look, hung in a grouping on a bold wall. I would love to do this in my home.

Another beautiful silver tray. I do not have one of these trays with the raised pierced rim, I wish I did. They are my favorite and are also out of my price range. I have not found one yet for under fifty dollars (which would be an amazing, unbelievabe price), one day I will find one in my price range, until then I will admire the trays I come across and keep searching. Plus, a silver tray without a raised rim looks just as beautiful in a kitchen with any of your necessity.

Another raised pierced rim silver tray, but again you could get the same look with a simple tray. A small rose bowl filled with flowers and a few other personal pretty items and this look makes a great addition to any bathroom or dressing area. I know this picture is of a buffet and more formal (looks incredible), I'm only offering additional suggesstions for a similar look in your bathroom, closet, entry way or bedroom, really a great tray (silver or otherwise) works in any room.

This is a clever idea and adorable. I love it. Simple, tasteful and makes you look twice. The iron rack is originally used for towels but adding in the oval trays with a towel or two is an easy addition and makes a statement with easy and grace.

A more conventional way to use a tray and who would dare say the look is not fabulous.

What a cute, cute, cute grouping!!! A message board.

Enjoy using your trays in any room and don't limit yourself on how to decorate with trays.

A Little Something to Explain about Me

2011-07-22T11:56:00.000-07:00

I get asked frequently the same question by people who either don't know me and some who do, the question is usually starts with "Are you okay?" which catches me off guard most times and I answer, "yes fine, why?" That's when I get "you are limping." Most times I answer quickly and tell people that I had an accident, I'm fine. Sometimes I explain that I have an artificial hip (reason for picture) and that always leads into why. Again most times, I brush it off and say it is from a childhood injury, that lead me to the replacement eleven years ago when I was twenty-seven. Recently I found out I need to have joint replacement in my foot from the same injury, and will have to have another hip replacement in a few years (plus I received one of the recalled hips eleven years ago).

I decided to blog about why I have these problems for a couple of reasons, one because everyone is always asking what happened to me and why did I have to have a hip replacement at twenty-seven years old (which again was 11 years ago). Here it goes (as told to me by family members), I was burned. Not on accident, not in an accident but at the hands of another person. A babysitter (who was sixteen years old) put me in boiling hot water, when I was a toddler and burned my feet and legs then left me to die. Apparently another woman who lived in the same apartment complex as the sixteen year old babysitter heard my screams and saved the day. The burns I received created many problems and lead to a secondary infection that at the time was rare and difficult to treat. The infection was one that formed in my bones and lead to many, many surgeries, body cast and other interesting problems and many years of hospitals,doctors and procedures. I can remember parts of my recover in the hospital (which I would rather not), I always had a childhood of pains and leg problems. When I entered high school I can remember begging for the doctors to fix my leg, my hip joint did not grow and form like it is intended to because of the surgeries I had. In order to help me as a child the doctors scraped away, cut away, etc... the parts of the bones infected, which thankful they did, it allowed me to keep my legs and walk. From these procedures my hip bones and joint did not develop like they should and created a lot of pain and discomfort. Mostly Pain. After I had my daughter the pain in my hip was unbearable and the doctor agreed to do the hip replacement because I had no cartilage left in my hip joint and it was becoming more and more unbearable with every step I took. So on January 30, 2000 I had a hip replacement and started the year long road to recovery and walking on my own again. My hip replacement was different than the average because of all my prior surgeries, scar tissue and special circumstances involved so the recovery was long and to say the least not fun at all.

The next question after hearing how I was burned is usually "what happened to the babysitter?" The answer to that shocked me, because NOTHING happened to her. I'm not even sure if a call to the police was made. Who knows, I don't. I know that because my parents thought a sixteen year old girl was available to watch me all day while they worked (and she wasn't in school) I was burned. From the sever burns I recieved I also was unfornuate enough to get a rare bone infection (which someone can only get by being burned). Which then lead to many surgeries, years in the hospital as a child, pain and problems as a teenager and adult. And finially to my first hip replacement (which was re-called) and now to joint replacement in my foots. Plus the adults/babysitters involved also left me with the burden of paying for all my procedures. Yes I have insurance but OMG they things it doesn't cover when you start having these kinds of things done.

With all that being said, I am not looking for sympathy, I am asked the question alot about why I limp, or why don't you tube/ski behind the boat with the children or ride horses with Rialey, etc... You can't do those things with a hip like mine, and now that I have explained maybe I won't get asked as much. I'd love to forget it and not think about my next joint replacement (it's a little stressful to think about). I am so thankful I can walk and function and most days no one would ever know I have an artificial hip or how many scars I have. I am thankful that things have changed for victims of crimes, no one should have to keep paying for injuries they received at the hands of someone, especially when that someone was intentionally trying to hurt you.

I would like to know the woman's name that burned me and maybe talk to her but I do not know her name. I would like to know how you can try to kill a toddler by boiling them to dead and nothing ever happen to you. But these are questions I will never have answers to.

Next post will be fun,upbeat and about fashion, decorating or food. Enough about me (but after almost two years of blogging I guess its good I got it over with).

Not the life I imagined.

2011-07-21T23:31:00.000-07:00

I live in a small town, it's a nice place with quite neighborhoods and the most exciting thing that ever happens is local High School sports (they do a great job). We have one restaurant with tablecloths and a tiny museum that displays local history. Their is one major discount store and one major grocery chain and if don't like barbecue or Mexican food, you could starve. Rarely is there traffic (accident or road construction ) and our movie theater has six screens (which is an improvement from the 3 screens we did have). Everyone knows everyone. Now I don't say this because it's a bad thing, it's not. It is a picture perfect town with parades, movies in the park and concerts on Saturday in the middle of downtown. Again it's picture perfect, I can see Sandra Bullock and Harry Connick Jr.'s characters from "Hope Floats" walking down the street in my own neighborhood. I like the movie but I don't want it to be my life. I long for a grocery store with more than one choice of organic milk and bottled water, a restaurant that is not only beautiful but has interesting food and cocktails, museums filled with art and science, shopping that offers unlimited choices, Friday and Saturday nights with endless possibilities, and traffic. I am a city girl, and fourteen years of small town living has not changed that. With all that being said, I don't see my address changing, my children love it here (it's all they know). I wish I had the respect and understanding of who I am and what I miss. I gave up everything for my husband (the reason I live in a small town) and to have him understand my need for the city and respect that I am different from other people who love small town life would mean a lot. I may not live in the city again, but that doesn't mean I can't spend time in traffic, at a great restaurant, a museum, or simply shopping and hanging out. I do go to the city and love each trip and every minute (I'm not wild about the drive to and from) but having a partner by my side would be nice, very nice. I guess for now I have to be okay with going it alone (thank goodness I am not afraid to do things alone). I wrote this tonight to let you all know that some days I have to put on a happy face and that is not always what is going on the inside (just like any other person). Things are hard for everyone at some point or another. Now, I have great children, I'm full of energy and some say I am creative and I have this blog (thank goodness). On the other side of things I do not have a job, I make no money, I have no family support, I do not have a career and mommy/blogger doesn't rate high on a resumes or applications. I live in a small town and long for the lights of the big city. I am usually driving children to and from baseball, horses, or lessons of some kind and then I am alone. My point I guess is that even with a happy face on, even I need help sometimes,I could use a break and a trip into the city is a jolt to my senses that fills me with life again. In the end remember the quote, "Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle."

My Strange Addiction - Popcorn

2011-07-18T16:37:00.000-07:00

Recently I came across Microwave popcorn you can do yourself, forgive me if this is old news to everyone but I was of the thought, that microwave popcorn was made by Orville Redenbacher and prepackaged in a box of 6 ready to go bags. Today I tried this and I am hooked, no grease and taste one hundred percent better and takes no time at all to make.

All you need is a basic brown lunch bag, popcorn (any kind you like, I used Archer Farms 100% whole grain Midnight Blend) and a microwave.

Measure out 1/2 cup of popcorn and pour into bag.

Fold the top of the bag over twice (no staples or tape) and put in the microwave for about two minutes. When you can hear the popping slowing down take it out.

It couldn't be easier or taste better. Once it's popped you can add all the toppings you like or none at all.

Enjoy!

Solid Fashion

2011-07-17T22:29:00.000-07:00

When shopping for clothing I am automatically drawn to certain colors and fabrics and I can rarely pass up a white button up shirt. All time other favorites are: denim shirts, skirts, linen, camel/tan colors and dresses. I love solid colors and pieces, I do buy patterns but not many. I love solid colors because of how easily it is to make a statement with my jewelry, shoes or handbag

I can not own enough WHITE, button up shirts are my ALL time favorites and I'm guessing I have over thirty, but I also love a white dress and white jeans. The look below is one I love for the summer and do wear a lot. White is so crisp and clean and goes with everything. It's timeless and classic.

Here's another white dress and looks completely effortless with the bold necklace and boots. So many women I know do not wear white because they worry about getting dirty. White might be a little harder to remain spot free in but come on we are adults and can handle it. Plus there is always Shout, Oxyclean and the Tide pen for any spots that may come along.

Basic white shirt, gold large watch (Michael Kors makes a super gold watch) and you can pair with jeans or a skirt and look stylist without looking like you are trying so hard.

A denim shirt is another one of my go to favorites, again because it is easy to pair with almost anything and look polished, stylist and I can put the focus on my jewelry choices. I love the boots in this picture, boots of all kind are always an accessory I have a difficult time passing up.

The denim shirt, a beautiful skirt and great accessories and she is done and fabulous.

Effortless style, if you don't have a denim shirt, invest in a great button up long sleeve one and work it into your wardrobe.

Skirts, skirts, skirt - I love a solid skirt with a a solid top and again great accessories, but this is the one piece I don't mind patterns on. A skirt with pattern and a solid top (blouse, t-shirt, sweater, jacket) is definitely a DO.

Look at her in all solid pieces, and bold accessories (flowers and belt). Classic and wonderful.

Invest in a few great pieces to work into your wardrobe, a white and denim long sleeve button up, a simple white dress (or black if you prefer), jeans that fit great and look great, and a few skirts (both short and long). You can do so much with what I have suggested and what you already own. Good Luck.

Stella & Dot Style

2011-07-17T09:13:00.000-07:00

It's no news to anyone that I love jewelry, handbags, fashion and especially an accessory that expresses my personal style, makes a great statement and looks amazing. So it should be no surprise that after I had been to a Stella & Dot trunk shows I was hooked.

I picked up the Revival Tassel Necklace (one on right) immediate and two days later it arrived in my mailbox and ten minutes later it was on my neck. I can't wait to get the Awakening Charm Necklace (on left) to wear with the Revival Tassel Necklace. It's a great look without thinking, effortless and is versatile. I've worn mine with a brown strapless summer dress, a tank and white shirt with jeans, and some of my favorite linen.

Revival Necklace has been featured in Everyday with Rachael Ray, Instyle and Redbook Magazines.

My favorite piece of jewelry to purchase has always been a great bracelet, and this is a great bracelet. The Petra bracelet looks like you need an occasion or night out but that is just not true anymore. I'm going to wear mine whenever and where ever. If your like me if I wait for an occasion or special night out I might never get to wear it, plus look at the Redbook picture, it looks great casual and it's a little unexpected but perfect. Don't be afraid to be bold, and if you are a bracelet is a great piece to start with.

Again, like all of the Stella & Dot jewelry the Petra bracelet is versatile and beautiful.

If a bold statement is not your style Stella & Dot has the a beautiful selection of delicate pieces. The On The Mark necklace is simple, stylist and People magazine loves it too, as well as the Clover single wrap leather bracelet.

These are all Stella & Dot and look great together or alone. But if you know me I say wear them ALL.

I know I've focus on the bold and statement pieces but it's what I'm drawn to so I can't help it. The Metropolitan Mixed Chain Necklace is a calling my name. I recently saw it on a friend with a solid color long sundress and her hair pulled back in a pony, and no other jewelry on and she looked so incredibly put together and polished. It was like see never thought twice and she looked amazing.

The Charlotte Statement Necklace (pearl on on top) is also a show stopper and like all of Stella & Dot's jewelry it can be worn with anything (it's on my wish list).

We don't have to look like Giuliana Rancic to wear the Metropolitan Mixed Chain Necklace but I wanted to everyone to see how a easy it can be to wear. Plus if Giuliana Rancic loves it how can I ignore that, no wayyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy!!!! She has an impressive style sense.

If you are inspired by style and want to add a bold statement to your jewelry wardrobe or would rather add delicate, understated pieces, Stella & Dot is the answer and I am the girl to help you.

Host a trunk show and you can easily earn $250 in free jewelry and an additional four pieces at half price. Call me, text, email or facebook.

Simple,Functional and Beautiful Desks

2011-07-11T21:39:00.000-07:00

We all need our own space in our home to plop down with our laptop or a clean surface to write and work.The first desk can be made in a flash. You could use a simple rectangle fold out table or have one constructed to fit in a certain area you may already have in mind. Once you have your table, pick out fabric you LOVE and have a skirted slip cover made. Burlap is a great neutral, I love the navy ticking (don't forget red ticking) any solid linen fabric would look beautiful or be dramatic and use a bright color. With fabric the options are endless. Your local glass shop can cut a top to add a smooth surface and polished look. Accessorize with a lamp that is stunning, add a frame or two and finish off your look with an inviting chair. Make it your own space by adding your personality in the mix with a collection or favorite photos and books. Of all the pictures this desk is my favorite (I'm not in love with the lamp or chairs), the fabric gives it a soft sophisticated look without appearing stuffy. The overall look is picturesque for sitting down to working on any project.

I am addicted to green at the moment so naturally this caught my eye. The overall picture is dramatic and playful. Don't be afraid to paint your furniture or try bold prints. If it fits your personality and you love it, then TRY IT! Since the walls are adventurous and the green is bold and they anchored it all down with a neutral sea grass rug. Don't go overboard if it's your first attempt at bold and dramatic don't put it on every surface of the room, take note from the picture and try a pattern on one surface and a piece of furniture in a color you adore,finish with a neutral and leave out all the extra accessories.

Again this is another example of how a simple coat (maybe two) of paint can change the look of a piece completely. I grew up in a time and home that would NEVER of allowed for painting a piece of wood furniture. I say PAINT and use an unexpected color. The other day at an estate sale my cousin was purchasing some furniture for her dinning room (she's a newly wed), the shape and construction of the pieces was good but the oak was NOT! After explaining what painting, knobs and fabric could do, we were loading it in the car. PAINT, PAINT, PAINT!!!
This turquoise desk could not be prettier, don't be afraid to paint.

Again another simple desk with beautiful style. The wall color is graceful and the collection of framed art adds a backdrop for the desk that is uncomplicated and classy. Notice the desk is slip covered!!! If you are using neutral fabric and muted tones add a punch with a fabulous lamp or chairs.

Another example of what a difference paint can make. This look is a little more formal and fussy, but still very pretty. The vase and flowers are atrocious but, the mirror and sconces are dazzling and add to the formal look of the space.

What a statement. Casual living in an elegant way. Chalkboard wall with sconces, painted desk, slip covered chair, amazing wallpaper, lots of WOW factors!!

This is not your typical desk, but its definitely a workspace and a great use of one. Two fabric memo boards, a unique lamp. The red, adds a punch that is gorgeous and unexpected. Notice the red trim on the roman shade. I'm not loving the rug but the rest of the space looks personable, friendly, appealing and functional. It's proof you can make room for a work space in any home.

Get to work on your home office or desk, and be original, inventive and express your personality.

Mason jars for any occasion

2011-07-08T21:46:00.000-07:00

Summer and mason jars go hand and hand, and with their causal feel and limitless uses they are perfect for many occasions, events or backyard gatherings.

This are filled with Epsom salt and a simple votive.

These antique jars and carry are picture perfect, fill with any of your favorite flowers. I love mine filled with sunflowers.

Burlap tablecloth and a mix of flowers make a great look for casual summer gathering.

I love, love, love this blue jar.

I have done this same look, wrapping the jar is quick and easy and adds another element of casual elegance.

Again a blue jar and the yellow flowers look PERFECT!

Add some wire and hang, and another way to add a great touch to your summer event.

This is my FAVORITE look, it's easy and spectacular looking. Only one problem, storing all those jars!

Simple and white

I love the variation of colors in the flowers, anything with pink and I'm a sucker.

Painting the inside of the mason jar is another easy way to change up your jars. Use a non-flammable paint and when you are not filling with flowers you can add a candle and get a pretty glow, especially when you paint the jars white.

Right at the top of the list of "how to use a mason jar" it reads - for a drink. The straws are precious and available at www.etsy.com (search paper straws), they come in tons of colors.

I had to end on my favorite blue jars, hopeful this has sparked a create energy in you and what can be done with a mason jar. Have fun and be creative.

I'm working on an entire blog on Cupcakes in a mason jar. They will, with out a doubt impress your guest. Be on the look out for it.

Tea Towels

2011-01-10T22:42:00.000-08:00

It's been a busy few months, and I am embarrassed I have not blogged in that length of time. I have been keeping active on my Facebook page, you can join me there by searching Green Acres Brenham. I will try much harder to keep my blog current. I love blogging and only wish I had more time to devote to all things Green Acres.
Tonight I made a couple of tea towels with images that fit my family and home perfectly and in returned also inspired me to blog all about it.

This is beyond easy and obviously (since I did it) requires no sewing.

I used pre-washed flour sack towels, but I intend to use linen guest towels later. The flour sack towels are great for the kitchen and everyday use. I love them.

After you have purchased your towels you will need to find images that suit you. I liked the crown, and semi hidden is a part of a circus train, a pretty scroll design and of course a horse. I have a ton of others, once you start searching clip art it's easy to get carried away. To print your images purchase Avery transfer paper for light fabric, it's available at office supply stores, Walmart, Target, and online. Avery works the best, I have used another brand and it was a battle. Print your images according to the directions.

Once you have printed the image out on the transfer paper trim as close to the image as you can leaving a tiny white edge.

Position image on towel and iron according to the Avery directions. I use a classic iron, it's heavy and

has zero frills. Don't get the wrong idea, I am not ironing our clothes with this ten pound dinosaur, but it is perfect for this type of application. Again follow the directions on the Avery transfer paper, they are simple and the process is fast. Once you have completed the process to apply the transfer wait about two minutes before you remove the paper. You will then have your finished look. The towels can be cleaned like any others, throw in the machine and go.

One of the towels I finished tonight. I can't wait to try it out on burlap, ticking and some other interesting materials. I would love to see any towels that you create. Enjoy.

My New Boobie Bracelet

2010-10-11T19:27:00.000-07:00

keep-a-breast.org

Love your boobies

The bracelet actually says, "I heart boobies!

What a contagious campaign and October is breast cancer awareness month. These are the uttermost popular bracelets around. Every age is after these adorable bracelets in support, prevention and early detection of breast cancer. You can get yours (and should) at

http://www.keep-a-breast.org/

The bracelets are 1 inch thick come in 6 fun colors and are only $3.99 each or a 6 pack (one of each color) for $22.99, so why not buy the 6 pack and pass them out to friends. That's how I got mine, a sweet friend (Melissa) knows I'm a sucker for a bracelet and especially one with a supportive, fundraising effort.

The inside of the bracelet:

keep-a-breast.org

art. education.awareness.action

They have an excellent website with a wonderful objective to expose people (especially young people) to means of prevention, early detection and support all through arts, events, educational programs and fundraising efforts. It is an outstanding way to equip all people with the knowledge to make choices and habits that will benefit their health.

Cancer is intimidating, but get the information you need to be aware of signs and symptoms, get regular screenings, and be jammed with knowledge to make choices to empower yourself.

BUY SOME BOOBIE BRACELETS!!!

"A girl should be two things: classy and fabulous" - Coco Chanel

2010-10-03T10:03:00.000-07:00

Yes cross bracelet is huge, but I LOVE IT and I promise it looks way better in person. It is so great and a Round Top/Warrenton find. I wore it to the Junk-O-Rama Prom Thursday night (hosted by Junk Gypsy) and received lots of compliments. Who knows maybe they were really like"crazy lady what the hell do you have on." I have been asked several times to blog about accessories and such so this is it (or the beginning of it).

What I would like to try is show how I mix my nicer jewelry with great lesser expensive jewelry and how it all still can look great. To start I did get the three bracelet's this week during the Antique Fair, the smaller ones were $125.00 each and the much larger turquoise cross was $400.00 after talking Vincent down $80.00. They are sterling silver and made in Tibet and definitely not your everyday find. I looked all over the Round Top Antique Fair and only found two dealers selling Tibetan jewelry.

These bracelet are fun and everyone always thinks they are ivory, so why not let them, right? Except I'm letting my secret out now, they look like ivory and are a great faux finish but since I found them on clearance at Wal-Mart (in Marble Falls, TX) for $3.00 and that was for five bracelets, I'm going to say they are NOT ivory but they are metal and a faux finish. I found them on clearance in black too! The larger bracelet is a bangle in ivory and green malachite, it's hinged and highlighted with brass. I found it on eBay and won the auction for $10.50 and $3.50 for shipping. It was a great deal. The most expensive item on my wrist in this picture is the Michael Kors bone watch. You should invest in a couple great looking (not to trendy) watches, Michael Kors is a great designer and his watches start at $200 and go up. Try to grow your watch collection to include a great summer, fall and dressy watch, then you can always add trendy from their if you really need it or can't live without it. If you are like me it's always that you can't live without it. Doesn't everyone want to look fabulous.

I have some bamboo bracelet's and have a huge tendency to wear them a little to much, but when the Saks catalog came and these were in there my worries went away. If Saks and Gucci are ok with it then who am I to argue. The ones pictures are Gucci and start at $1,000. Now we all know I like all things Girlie and beautiful and everyone has their limit and mine is controlled by the Judge (A.K.A. the husband) so NO I do not have the Gucci Bracelets but I was lucky enough to find great silver looking ones on Harwin (you can find EVERYTHING there) for $2.00 each. Plus I have some natural bamboo ones that look great also.

Hopefully you can tell, but that is one of the bamboo silver ($2.00) bracelets. Mixed with two other Harwin finds and a newer Brighton bracelet. Which I am still amazed it's a Brighton bracelet. I'm not usually a fan, but this was fun and a great addition to add to the mix. Rhinestones are not my thing, and I am a FIRM believer that you can make things go a long way and mix up all kinds of wonderful pieces if you leave the rhinestones alone. They can tend to make things look cheap if your not careful. I realize the Brighton bracelet has stones, but I did not "bling" it up my arm. Sure add a piece here and there, and there is always a fun place to wear the rhinestones and glitz,but not everyday. This is only my opinion. I also feel you should wear your jewelry in a unique way that is you and makes you confident and happy. So if rhinestones do it for you, claim your style and make it your own. Who am I to say.

These are the natural ones, I love wearing and mixing. Almost everything I buy or invest in is mixable. A girl needs options, especially in her jewelry, handbags and shoes. It makes the clothes easier.

In later pictures you'll notice these mixed with other bracelets. They were eBay finds and very affordable (don't say cheap, sounds like you got it from the gumball machine). Around $11.00 with shipping for 5 bracelets and the other two were misc finds. A great women once told me that you should never tell a women her jewelry is cute because it's like giving a compliment to a five year old about her shoes. Point being a women doesn't want to hear her jewelry is cute, it's beautiful, looks amazing, makes her outfit complete and her shine.

I meet that women when I was probably ten or twelve years old and she was much older, She was always perfectly put together and looked incredible she introduced me (and my mom) to many fabulous things, and I know without a doubt she helped to shape my fashion sense and sensibility. She's like my personal Coco Chanel. I've always adored her, Mrs.Jones.

These bracelets were an accidental find, but I was so lucky to get them. They are vintage and believe it or not, there are 23 on my arm. They have a tortoise look and range in width from super skinny to wide. They are a eBay find and at first they may sound like a lot, but remember there are 23 bracelets, all for $71.00, so that's $3.09 each. The auction was a all or nothing deal, which was perfect for me. The watch is Michael Kors tortoise and again, watches are great investment pieces. Look for timeless over trendy first.

Here's a motley crew of bracelets. But an example of how I often mix it up for better or worse.

The first bracelet(closes to my wrist) is definitely one that would fall in the "investment" piece category, it's a DeCarol and all her pieces are one of a kind, heavy solid sterling silver and what you can't see is the beautiful toggle and cross on the other side ("investment" piece is a bigger purchase and I'm leaving the price off on purpose). This is on my top five faves maybe even number one. The next is the Brighton one we have seen before, the third and fifth are wood with silver and were a steal at $6.00 each at Target on clearance. the three silver bracelet all came from Harwin and were only a few dollars and of course I couldn't leave home without one natural bamboo bracelet.

My new interest in bracelets. Hinged ivory. While in Round Top I found several of these bracelets, but purchased zero! The prices were eye popping, the cheapest I found these past two weeks was $150 for a super skinny one and plain, and the other was $350 for one that is similar to the ones I have. So were did I get mine, eBAY. If you haven't guessed I love eBay, the things you can find. If you can think it up you can find it on eBay. Back to jewelry, I've mentioned the ivory and green malachite bracelet and winning it with shipping for $14.00. The silver engraved hinged bracelet with the turquoise was just as great a find for $19.99 and $3.75 for shipping. We can't forget the elephant, it's the biggest and inlayed with ivory and hinged, I think it adds a mix of the unexpected which I like, it was only $34.99 including shipping. I won all three bracelet for under $73.00 (including the shipping) and I'm bidding on one more, which hopefully I will get it and then that will be it for the ivory bracelets.

Well, it can't be all about bracelet, but I will get back to them. Michael Kors says every women should have a great pair of diamond stud, even if they are just cubic zirconium. The CZ studs he suggest are $90 a pair and the ones I have pictured and wear all the time are $10.00 and are available in any size, from super tiny to unbelievably large, you also have the choice of silver prongs or gold and several shapes, but why be tacky, stick with the traditional round. Email me if you need a pair or two. I lose earrings all the time so I buy a few at a time. I've never been a dangle earring person. I'm trying, but when you are into a certain piece of jewelry, like I am bracelets I really think it's over kill when you then add a ton of necklaces or giant earrings on with it. Pick and choose your favors and highlight those. Sure ten bracelets are a lot but big earrings and a chunky necklace with it and who will know where to look and what to say. Find your style not someone else's and if you need help, ask friends or give me a email.

We all need a pretty and simple pair of leopard heels.They do not have to be Kate Spade (I do LOVE these, how precious is that bow). I just adore this pair and wouldn't mind seeing these in my closet, but at almost $400.00 they must wait. The pair I have is perfect for now. Use leopard print in pieces not complete outfits. I have a leopard pencil skirt but I would not wear it with my leopard shoes or bag. Keep your animal prints simple and best advise, one animal print on your body (includes handbag) at a time.

An example, I have on a plain black sheath dress, my leopard heels and my signature millions of bracelets and diamond stud earrings. No necklace and no leopard handbag. I was carrying a vintage Furla Croc Handbag that evening. I'll show another picture of this dress another way. A simple solid color sheath dress is a super background for any accessories you want to highlight and look stylist doing it.

A different look in the basic black sheath dress (I have this dress in navy and chocolate brown), This black one was another eBay win. It was new with the tags and I was the proud owner for under $30 with shipping. I have just recently bought a blue and white boucle knee lenght sheath on eBay as well for $17.99 and a Gray GAP one for $13.50 (including shipping) and I'm currently bidding on a Ralph Lauren Black Label Black wool one for the winter and a Calvin Klein. So see people I can find a deal.

Back to this picture (Kristen sorry for the red eyes), I wore the black dress with a vintage tooled belt and a great big buckle and added a big red flower clipped to my belt and of course lots of bracelets and you can't see me feet, but I have one Cowboy boots in black patent leather with turquoise stitching and a white flower clipped to my boot. It was a special night,not your everyday outfit, but not bad.

If this post is a hit I'll do more style post. Just comment and let me know, click on the comment box and send, then I'll post them later. You will not see your comment immediately.

Have a Great Sunday.

"The answer isn't to climb down but to rise higher." - Coco Chanel (on living life on your own terms)

Leftovers Antiques

2010-09-27T22:06:00.000-07:00

Leftovers Antiques

3900 Highway 290 W

Brenham, Texas

979-830-8496

http://www.leftoversantiques.net/

Leftover Antiques is located at 3900 Highway 290 West in Brenham.They are open daily from 10:00a.m. - 6:00p.m. The 10,000 square foot building is brimming wall to wall and beyond with the most appealing things. The owners Michael and Ed have a stunning touch.

The above picture is of the most popular fall decoration to hit town in forever, velvet pumpkins in a variety of sizes and colors, with real steams. They are soft,squishy and luxurious. I love them.

Any place you put them they look perfect.

When you are shopping at Leftovers you can and will find everything you need to make your friends and family envious of your home.

These pillows would look great in my daughter's room.

The upholstered furniture is uncomplicated and elegant and never busy.

Decorative accessories fill the store and each one is more inspiring than the next.

You can find any piece to fit your personality.

These fit my personality perfectly, and the oval one came home with me. Sophisticated, classic and charming, what's not to like. I think I might put mine in the bathroom with tiny soaps, which you can also get at Leftovers. Why not use it for something other than what it is intended for.

Since I did just mention soap, Leftovers has an entire section of bath products with so many deliciously smelling soaps it's hard to pick. The soaps pictured are made of goats milk and have a nice clean cucumber scent. I love the sponge and they do smell yummy ( I bought one so I now speak from experience).

I took this picture because I like the candlesticks, they are sizable, huge and make a statement. Pretty, pretty, pretty.

The store is so tremendous by the time you get to the Christmas decorations you've forgotten you just left a velvet pumpkin patch. The Christmas decorations are unimaginable and I only took two pictures,because you should see them in person. The time, energy and creative talents that made the Christmas wonderland deserve the oooohhs and aaaaahs you will make when you see the stunning Christmas decorations.

Why I picked this tree is simple, it is full of handmade ornaments that consist of sequins, ribbon, fancy pins and satin balls. I was convinced once I was going to have a tree like this, I love the idea of each one being handmade,the novelty and unique characteristics of each. My intentions were good and after two ornaments I was ready to poke myself in the eye with the needles I was using. What I quickly learned from the experience is, I have zero patience and may never have a tree like this. I will however always admire one when I am lucky enough to see one.

My velvet pumpkins, which I am without a doubt getting more. I didn't buy traditional pumpkin colors, instead I went for turquoise and pink.

Leftovers Antiques brought allure and style to Brenham. I know when I need a little time alone or want to wonder around without thinking or need a special gift I can go to Leftovers and stroll through the store and look at books, bedding, extraordinary pieces to fill any home and I always leave with a long list of wants but more than that, I leave relaxed and looking forward to my next trip in.

Round Top Antique Fair

2010-09-26T23:14:00.000-07:00

It's Round Top time and the show official starts this coming Wednesday, September 29 and continues to October 2, you can try your luck on Sunday but most dealers are packing up and ready to get home. Unofficially you could have been shopping for the past week. Heading to Round Top and walking the pastures is my favorite thing to do. You never know what treasures you will find or silliness you'll come across. The Round Top Antique Fair has it all and more! Take a look at the photos I took in two days, and there is so much more (I'm going back).

Mirrors, wine crates, and more, all beautiful and found in the Bar W field.

The same booth in the Bar W field. Simple and perfect.

Next to the Bar W field is Northgate (another pasture full of fun), these urns and balls were found there. Unique and fabulous.

These stools are everywhere and in different heights. I love it, the industrial look and feel. I think you can mix it up with anything. Again they are abundant in the Bar W field.

These buckets have been around for a while, they are perfect for legos, hot wheels, toys, toys and toys as well as other things and purposes. You can find them in the Bar W field under the red and white striped tent close to the road. They are about twenty dollars.

This chest can be found at the same tent and I would love to bring one home for my closet to hold all my jewelry. It's about waist high on me and I'm 5'8, so it's not small and best of all it's $135.00

These paint brushes are a great collection to start, they come in different sizes, colors, carvings and range from $15 to $30 and some a little more. The ones pictured can be found under the red and white tent in the Bar W field.

More Brushes

Something more practical, a laundry basket. I bought two more of these (I had one) because they make pretty laundry baskets and since we have to do laundry why not look good doing it, They are $30 and found in the field at Northgate.

If you need a jar Round Top Antique Fair is the place for you. There is no lack of jars. Every shape, size and color.

To give you an idea of how big these metal horses are, if you look behind them at the roof, they stand taller than the roof. If you need huge, giant horses here they are as well as a bull and several other animals.

In the field I found this great industrial table, This would make a great table in a lot of rooms I've seen. Best part no fingerprints to constantly worry about, no nicks or scratches, I doubt you could do harm to this table. It is a WOW! I promise.

Altars and crosses found at Hector the Collectors tent.

Statues are not a problem to find if your on the look for one. This one was interesting, with lots of appeal.

At this stop you can get urns and skulls.

My furniture interest are definitely changing, I have been completely drawn to the industrial looking pieces. I would like to incorporate some into the mix of my home. This picture is of an incredible side table ($450) and big square coffee table. Both are my favorite tables found so far.

I did buy this mail cart and this picture is taken in my home. It's rough and rustic and I liked it.

At The Arbor tents you will find all things beautiful. This couch, the pillows, I want to sit and not get up.

These are all planters/vases. LOVE IT!

Again this picture is from The Arbors, the stools were sold in a set of four for $1,000, but they are adjustable. I would love to see these in my office/workroom.

Another interesting table found at The Arbors. The top is covered in tin.

Junk Gypsy, everyone who attends Round Top Antique Fair regularly knows Junk Gypsy. This Thursday night they host the Prom and it's a big party with lots of tutu's present. If you can't make it to Round Top google Junk Gypsy they have a fun website.

Just proof you can find anything during antique week.

This is not my style, but I have to give credit to them it's original, creative and eye catching.

If I was going to mention the picture above with the mannequins, then I couldn't leave this one out. This took someone some time!

Another household item that is readily available: RUGS!

Concrete decorative items.

I have an All-Star at home, so of course I had to take this picture.

Mexican Art, pretty and if you look close the crosses are mixed with the Day of the Dead.

I never let the week go by without stopping by to see the silver man. He has any silver pattern ever made and any piece your looking for. Right down to the Francis the 1st lemon fork I received as a gift.

My new favorite accessory. I've always loved bracelet and if I've said it once I've said it a hundred times, "If one bracelet is good, then ten is better." These are from Tibet and sterling silver, they start at $125 and go up to $600. They were (are) so so so beautiful.

Count third from the top and you'll see I did break down and buy one, a small one. It's a start.

I know, I know, I know could I possibly get one more bracelet on. The answer for today was NO.

Grab your credit card and cash, and head to Round Top.

Wednesday, September 29, 30 & October 1 & 2

Hotel ZaZa & The Menil

2010-09-01T19:51:00.000-07:00

5701 Main

Houston, Texas 77005

Toll Free: 888-880-3244

Phone: 713-526-1991

Fax: 713-526-0359

http://www.hotelzazahouston.com/

I have been wanting to stay at Hotel Zaza for a little while. I love boutique shopping and the intimate experience you get, so why wouldn't I like a boutique hotel. I loved it. I never want to stay anywhere else. It might have a little to do with growing up in Houston and driving pass Mecom fountain and someone had put bubbles in the water and they were oozing everywhere. I can remember Hotel Zaza being the Warwick and the transformation is definitely something to experience. Make a weekend and GO.

I would not recommend children but your pets are welcome (I'm not trying to be ugly saying that but it is really not a place for children).

Outside of Hotel Zaza and Herman Circle with part of Mecom fountain.

Museums are on almost every corner and Herman park is across the street. Don't get me started on all the restaurants. Oh, I think I still have Rialey's chocolate covered marshmallow(she asked me to bring her) in my purse from The Chocolate Bar, GROSS! That is not going to be good.

From the time you drive up, nothing is like a typical hotel. This is the lobby. Big, giant zebra chairs, all of it made me want to sit and watch everything and hang out. It's not really my style but I loved it. It was super busy, yet relaxing and comfortable and some great outfits walked through that lobby. When I did check in I was greeted with a glass of champagne. Maybe two, then told that the Hotel would take me anywhere I needed to travel (in a certain limit) and pick me up. I stayed at the hotel, it was way to pretty to leave.

This was also hanging in the lobby on my way to the elevators. Plus each elevator had a different scene of people painted on the back wall, they were slightly cartoon and circus like, but definitely fit the atmosphere.

My Room - The Magnificent Seven

This is one of the Magnificent Seven Rooms, it is called Fatal Charms. The room has 1,296 square feet and has a lot of velvet, leather,crystal charms and an amazing view of Houston. I did not stay here, are you kidding! I didn't have time to donate blood and a vital organ before my stay. I had a lovely guestroom.

Bella Vita - is 1,584 square feet of Italian influence, complete with a kitchenette. I doubt that kitchenette is big enough to whip up some pasta but I'm sure you will still LOVE your weekend.

It Happened One Night is 954 square feet of jet setting sophistication, full of style from world wind adventures.

Rockstar is 2,160 square feet and looks like the playboy mansion finally met a awesome interior designer with no budget and good taste. Yes, there is velvet,purple, black, leather, zebra, crystals, but it's definitely a place to stay for fun.

Black Label will give you 2,204 square feet to get your relaxing weekend started, or if that's not enough you can head out to the large balcony and relax in the tub.

Tycoon is 2,016 square feet of Texas Tycoon. Need I say more!

For Your Eyes Only is 907 square feet of too embarrassing to type! But, yes there is a mirror!

Ontop of the Magnificent Seven Suites the Hotel also offers Concept Suites:

Geisha House, West Indies Room, Houston We Have A Problem, Moulin Rouge, Casa Blanca, That's Entertainment, SoHo Loft, An Affair To Remember, and Warwick Apartment

The pool

The picture does not look that big, and it's not huge, but it is a beautiful space. The pool and spa are located on the second floor. They do have pool bungalows and villas.

The Spa offers: salon services, massages (with holistic and modern techniques), exfoliation, facials, manicures, pedicures, hydrotherapy and oxygen therapy treatments and more. They have all kinds of packages and the specials are always changing.

My Room, a double bed (all they had) with a balcony. Basic Guestroom (balcony is extra).

The beds are set with deluxe Italian linens, a luxuriously soft down comforter and fluffy down filled pillows. I had a ZaZa guest robe which I had to use when the smoke detector went off in my room while I was in the SHOWER! Weird deal, I'll just say thank goodness housekeeping was a woman and no one else on my floor seemed to care the alarm was going off. I would not let this stop me from staying again. I would definitely stay again. The smoke alarm thing was weird.

The desk hide the refreshment refrigerator and bar. Ontop was the the butlers pantry full of lots of snacks, things you might forget from home and novelty items. Available to their guest is wireless Internet in your room and throughout the hotel.

The weekend was relaxing, the hotel was so great and I can not wait to go back. The hotel staff was adorable,super friendly and kind. The location could not be better, it is close to everything. The room was perfect, the overall experience was worth the money and has tainted my view of other hotels. I love Hotel Zaza.

Map to Hotel ZaZa

The Menil

When your in Houston you can shop, and of course eat, but one of my favorite places is

The Menil. I use to take Henry there. It's been open since 1987 and is free and gorgeous.

The Menil is home to amazing art collections that encompass many cultures and times. They have unbelievable range and dynamics. One of my favorites use to be the fertility statues, short bodies and and round bellies and the idea that a whole culture adored this type of woman, and cherished her role in their society. I love that. Now I'm amazed by the Antiquities Collections and how some of these wonderful pieces have survived since 15,000 BC and the Byzantine Collection. I could go on forever. The other nice little thing about the Menil is when you are there and taking everything in it's serene and tranquil and you have the moment to contemplate in peace on how awe-inspiring it all is.

The Menil has several collections: Antiquities, Byzantines/Medieval, African,Pacific Islands & Pacific Northwest Coast and Modern and Contemporary.

Objects of Devotion - will be on display from Aug 13 - Oct. 31, 2010 this is a collection which shows hows art validates religious practices in different eras and places. I definitely want to go see this.

Quick info about the John and Dominique de Menil

John and Dominique de Menil traveled and collected art beginning in the 40's and their collection grew to the hundreds very quickly. When you see there name it is of fen ( and rightfully so) connected with Philanthropists. They have been overly generous to Houston and all who visit The Menil.

My next read, John and Dominique de Menil

My Home Office

2010-08-22T19:57:00.000-07:00

My home office, I do not share my precious space this is my room to think, blog, wrap gifts, read, work on anything and everything. It is pink like my closet, with crisp white cabinets and brown counter tops. Everything has it's place, from photos to ribbon, to post it pads to computer cords and gadgets.

If you are to stop by while I am blogging or hard at work on any number of things, never fear refreshments are close at hand. I can't be far from sugar or a diet coke. What a combination, but I do have a Perrier water addiction hopeful that gives a little balance to my otherwise unbalanced diet of sugar and artificial sweeteners.

Sit and relax (or read) in one of the window benches. This one is outfitted with a pillow made by a friend from a Mexican dress, it compliments the Mexican pottery and bateas.

I read a lot. Books, magazine, the Internet, my kindle, blogs and on and on. I have every bookcase in the house beyond full. Magazines are so hard for me to turn away from, your waiting in line and there they are. They are beautiful, interesting, full of either fashion and style or decorative ideas and architecture, political updates and current events. How do people turn their backs on the magazines at the check out. I have no willpower.

Usually the area my family sits to watch me work. I've got to remember to start locking the door.

I'm organized, I like it that way, for the most part I find it makes things easier. Left drawer is nothing but notepads and post-it pads, nothing else. Right drawer is dictionary (I know kind of old school, sometimes you need one) and personalized stationary.

Card Drawer

All the drawers and cabinets in the room are primary organized this way, some are even labeled. Which I am now sure some people I know will pick on me endlessly for admitting to.

Everything Iphone, Ipod, or Ipad is housed in this drawer.

Keep it all together and you know exactly where to go to find what you need each time. Quick and easy.

From here I can work on my blog, download pictures from my camera, add music to my Ipad or Ipod, and the list goes on. It's a nice space to have.

South Texas Tack and Rialey

2010-08-17T23:13:00.000-07:00

When I had my daughter I always imagined she'd let me help her pick out her clothes and shoes. That I would be making hair appointments and we'd get our manicures together. Then one day she turned three and discovered horses, saddles, boots and a permanent pony tail. We both thought it was a sweet little faze and then she won her first buckle at five years old and sixteen horses later, trophies, ribbons, and too many boots and saddles to count she's still in her horse faze and I'm getting a manicure alone. I admit the first time I realized I had to groom her horse for a show I wanted to throw up, instead the entire jar of hoof polish ended up all over my new boots. That was a few years ago and things have changed and I'm not the best at painting a horse's hooves but give me enough time and we both end up with black polish on.

This is where my post begins, for a few (or more) years now when I do manage to spill, break, loose, or whatever the circumstance may be concerning the horses and Rialey, I can run to South Texas Tack. They are located on Highway 290 right here in Brenham and from the road you would NEVER know how amazing they are, the 34,000 sq. foot building is not only full of the best of everything you could possibly need for your horse,or yourself ( Rialey) it's all done in a remarkable way.

This is the only place I can get Rialey to shop and one of us does not come to tears. They have more jeans than you would believe, right here in Brenham for men and women! Brand after brand, styles, sizes, all price ranges.

More jeans. How great is the trailer for a display.

This table has a great selection of Miss Me jeans.

Stay with me, I know it's a lot of jeans, but there is some great stuff ahead (it makes my daughter so happy).

I can't decide if they have more saddles, jeans, or boots. You'll have to go see. Again they are in Brenham (on Highway 290) so you can either go to aTm or keep going on 290 and head to UT. Before you decide to gig'em or hook'em they have the boot for you.

Try on your boots in comfort and with a helpful and knowledgeable staff.

They do sell boots for men and children (tons of selections in both), I got carried away taking pictures of the women's boots. Oh, this weekend South Texas Tack and Tax Free Weekend!!!!! They will be open on Sunday from 12-5p.m. and our local KTEX radio station will have prizes and drawings on Saturday starting at 11:30 a.m. and the prizes are goooooooooooooooooooooddddddddddddd!!!!! Think boots, jeans and tack.

I love pink, and Rialey does not, it's like a knife in my heart, poke in the eye, whatever you want to call it. How can I have a female child that will not wear pink! This is a picture of a show shirt, and Rialey has owned every color of the rainbow in show shirts except pink.

South Texas Tack carries show shirts. They offer an assortment of sizes and colors. I want Rialey to like this one.

If showing horses is not your style and your good on boots and jeans, you could check out the saddles. If they don't have it, I bet they can get it. We had South Texas Tack make Rialey's for her, she told them what she wanted and how she liked it and they did it. She loves her South Texas Tack saddle.

Definitely a saddle for every need.

South Texas Tack stamp of approval.

On this side of the store is where you can find brushes, shampoo, halters, blankets, spurs (which Rialey just reminded me she needs new ones. I try to act like it's jewelry), lead ropes, and on and on and on.

Before you leave you can check out the bulletin board, there is always a horse for sale (or two or three), or a trailer, who knows what you'll find. You might find one of our horses up there. While you shop at South Texas Tack Pay attention to the details (they have), look closely at the pillows.

South Texas Tack is a truly unique store and when I decided to blog about them it was because of my daughter Rialey. Both, Rialey and South Texas Tack are simple on the outside and beautiful on the inside.

South Texas Tack

4765 Highway 290 East

Brenham, Texas 77833

979-421-8800

southtexastack@gmail.com

www.southtexastack.com

My sweet girl, about to show her favorite horse.

Pretty Things

2010-08-03T21:59:00.000-07:00

I love these two china cabinets (by Drexel Heritage). It makes me want to throw out everything in my formal dining room and add these two cabinets and start from there. I'm not crazy about the pendant lighting at all, and the table is definitely neat (so much so I have one in my breakfast room). I'm ready for a change and these cabinets might be the place to start. I like mixing a formal look with a casual one. Taking these cabinets and adding a great chandelier. I'm still thinking on the table.

Lamps, lamps, and more lamps. For me lamps are like bracelets, if one is good then...is better(fill in the blank to fit your room). The lighting is prettier and softer, lamps are beautiful and interesting. I like framing the window with two lamps.

I do not like the artificial flowers under the table - ick! Sorry. I know the idea is to hide the cords from the lamps, but a sweet little ottoman slip covered would look fabulous.

The bed is heavenly and I have white bedding. Above the bed is a grouping of framed Intaglios. A very interesting history behind these if you ever get the chance to read about them. I'm not wild about the look but can appreciate the history and collection.

Mirror, mirror on the wall, so it goes.

A round mirror is mesmerising. Make it a convex mirror (not in your bathroom) and wonderful. A whole new dimension.

The scones are a beautiful touch and smart too, who doesn't want a nice soft glow around their face. Everyone looks better under soft lighting.

My focus is the ottoman. I can't look at any thing else. Interesting,plush, lots of details, and I want to put my hands all over it. The chairs are nice to, but REALLY the ottoman is fun! The photo is from Leftovers in Brenham,Texas. A super antique store off Highway 290.

Beautiful Things from Ballard

2010-07-24T22:13:00.000-07:00

I love the Ballard catalog, they carry wonderful things at great prices. Last year I went nuts at Pottery Barn and Target and bought to many pieces of mercury glass to decorate with and the obsession has not stopped. The pedestal cake plate above is available in the Ballard catalog for $39.00. I love it, you can dress it up or down and make it useful for any occasion.

I am allergic to bees but drawn to them decoratively. I like there look, the idea of the necessity of a bee, just everything about a bee, it is an insect that truly must and does work as a team. Dorky I know, but the insect that could send me into shock I find decoratively pretty and simple. These glasses are again available in the Ballard catalog, they come in sets of 4, one size is $40.00 and the larger size is $45.00.

A personalized pillow, LOVE it and it's available in lots of fabric choices. Ballard catalog, but I forgot the amount, I do remember it was not that much and I had to read to make sure it included the pillow form, which it does. It is also available in a square shape.

While we are on a personalized kick, Ballard offers a line of Monogrammed linen with brocade trim accessories. They are available in 5 colors: cream, blue, coral. espresso, and green.

The wastebasket is $79.00, tissue cover $55.00 and box $40.00

They are pretty, I am not wild about them but some people are. There is another company in Houston that I adore for wastebaskets but they start at $130.00, so this offers a more affordable alternative.

This is a sweet room for a young girl. Not my daughter and only because I do not see a horse anywhere. The minute she ask for a room like this I'm whipping out the paint can myself. It is precious, modern, clean lines and clean. The headboards are wonderful. What I would give if she would just let me have my way with her room. Maybe she will one day. Ballard's did a great job, and if she does ever give me the green light I know exactly where to head http://www.ballarddesigns.com/

I had drooled over this cork board for a very, very, very long time. Then I finally got it for a birthday present, and WOW is it huge. Lucky for me I had measured everything just perfectly and it fit just like I was hoping it would. It is worth every birthday present or Christmas gift you might have to ask for. Right now Ballard's has them on sale for $399.00 and I think shipping is $75.00 (remember it's big).

My Acanthus Message Board from Ballard.

It's a little fuller than the one in their picture. Lots of art from the children and horse pictures and my daughters ribbons from showing her horses and my sons tennis medals and now All-Star pictures and on and on. It does help to give you an idea of how big it really is.

Batten Foundation Luncheon

2010-07-24T14:24:00.000-07:00

Batten is a rare, fatal autosomal recessive neurodegenerative disorder that begins in childhood (usually around the age of 4 to 10 ). It is the most common form of a group of disorders called Neuronal Ceroid lipotuscinosis (or NCLs). Physicians use the term Batten Disease to describe all forms of NCL.

Overtime affected children suffer mental impairment, worsening seizures and progressive loss of sight, speech and motor skills. Eventually children with Batten Disease become blind, bedridden and demented. Batten Disease is a life limiting disease, life expectancy varies depending on the type or variation.

For the past few years the Luke & Rachel Batten Foundation holds an annual fundraiser here in Brenham to raise money for research. Ann Watson is a local woman who has two grandchildren with Batton Disease (Luke and Rachel). Ann host the luncheon and several of us fine Brenham women help Ann out.

On top of helping Ann organizing the luncheon we donate a seated luncheon for twenty to be auction off. I also donated another seated dinner with my mom for the fall. Dinner parties and luncheons of any kind always bring in the best money for fundraisers. Below is the Summer seated luncheon for 20 a few of us did. Thank you to the ladies that bid, and the sweet ladies that won the luncheon. They were precious. It was a joy to serve them this summer. They bought this auction item last year. I think they might like it.

Each guest was greeted with a nice chilled Mimosa (champagne and orange juice). They were popular, and why wouldn't they be, chilled, yummy Champagne and vitamin C. Perfect!

All the flowers used for the day came from one or more of the hostesses. None of the flowers were purchased. None of the tomatoes, basil or cucumbers were purchased for the meal. Some of the hostesses are real country girls.

The menu was constructed of card stock, held together with a tiny wooden clothes pin and fresh rosemary.

The Menu

Mimosa

Gazpacho with Shrimp

Spring Mix Salad with Strawberries, feta cheese, pecans and a homemade blush vinaigrette

Chicken and Artichoke rice salad

tomato, mozzarella and basil skewers

Fresh fruit

Assorted mini muffins

Lemon pound cake with fresh cream, raspberry sauce and mint

One of the tables

Another table.

The third table.

The third table again, this table had several different colors. Each table was unique in it's own way but they all tied together, or as my niece would say they were similar but not the same.

I got really busy doing my part and didn't get pictures of every course.Which I could just shoot myself for, everything was beautiful but, the main reason for the event was supporting Batten Foundation and it is important and dear to us all. We love our friend Ann.

The hostesses for the day were:

Tikaa Cone,Donna Cummins, Cathleen Davis, Sharon Dettling, Karen Gunn, Cissy Kopycinski, Kathy Parker, and Shannon Webb.

The event was held at the home of Shannon Webb.

Oreo Cookies with a New Twist

2010-07-08T21:03:00.000-07:00

This is so cute and perfect for parties, favors, a special treat, anything fun.

I just finished making them for a special treat for my son and his friend who we are taking to an Astros game tomorrow. My son's favorite baseball player is Lance Berkman (then Carlos Lee and Hunter Pence), and he bet that I wouldn't wear a baseball jersey, so tomorrow I am also wearing the Berkman jersery to surprise him (the one in the picture). The Oreo cookies will take you about 10 minutes.

You need a bag of Oreo's, one square of chocolate almond bark, and any Wilton Icing Decoration (hard sugar ones).

Melt the chocolate and put a small amount in the middle of the Oreo.

The top with a Wilton Icing Decoration, in this case a baseball mit and baseball (special treat for tomorrow nights Astros game).

All lined up drying, place in an air tight container to dry over night or before serving.

Then place on a cute dish, basket, pretty cake plate whatever the occassion calls for.

Just imagine Oreo's with all kinds of fun decorations on top.

The possiblities are endless and who doesn't love an Oreo.

Summer Favorties

2010-07-05T09:58:00.000-07:00

These are some of my favorite summer must haves when I hit the lake or pool or a weekend away. The basket is much larger than it looks and has great leather handles. The handmade basket is made by Longaberger (www.longaberger.com) it is the Large Boardwalk Basket/Tote, I purchased the hard plastic liner to go inside to make spills and clean up easier, you can also purchase fabric liners but I am not in love with them.I have three huge beach towels in it for the picture and could have easily put another. This basket/tote is also great for anything, food and drinks, whatever you want to use it for.

This for me was the find or surprise of the summer. I love, love, love these pool towels. They are pretty, huge and thick. Best of all they were only $16.00 each, at Wal-Mart of all places and made by Better Homes and Gardens. They had other in shades of green and brown. These were my personal favorites. I'm still so shocked and impressed. Way to go Wal-Mart.

Now my Summer weakness, I am only showing one pair. Tory Burch flip flops (about $50), stylish, comfortable (but would it matter), adorable and I am sure I could sell them off my pedicured toes sometimes because they sell out as quick as they hit the stores.

I wear contacts and sunglasses are a must so I can barely walk by a sunglasses counter without trying on a pair and occasionally taking home a pair. But the most trusted pair in my sunglasses wardrobe would be my Ray Ban Aviators, I am on my third pair due to losing a pair, breakage, losing another pair at a Disney water park. But I keep going back and loving them. I hope I don't break or lose these after all this!

I take my tiny little pink notebook with me to travel, I would be heartbroken if someone stole it, but it would be easier to replace it and I wouldn't be crying as I paid for it. I might miss some of the information on it but I try to put most of the information on my flash drive. The notebook is perfect for what I need it for, the Internet and blogging. I love to read and do read all kinds of different things and the interest changes at any given time and moment and so the Amazon Kindle is perfect, although I am in LOVE with the idea of an Ipad.

Quick and easy basket of snacks

2010-07-04T22:51:00.000-07:00

A quick and easy basket of snacks. No fuss and no cooking, just washing some veggies and cutting a few things up. Then carry your snack to a great spot to enjoy. My favorite, next to the water by the lake (or any place close to the water).

Included in my pretty basket of snacks is: French Bread, Goat Cheese rolled in Chopped Basil, Garden Fresh Tomatoes, Assorted Crackers,Cucumbers, Vine Sweet Mini Peppers, and a Fresh Mozzarella Cheese roll filled with Prosciutto and Basil.

A Little Drama At The Table

2010-06-28T21:47:00.000-07:00

I've been called dramatic a time or two, so I thought it was only appropriate to do a blog on a little drama. Recently I saw these tables and thought they are just perfect and full of DRAMA.

This table is not to over done, but there is a little drama and flair. The white dinner plate is by Juliska and is part of their "Berry & Thread" collection (available in several colors), you can find Juliska online at wwww.Juliska.com and also at Neiman Marcus (both in the store and online) and in Brenham you can find Juliska at Beadboard Upcountry. The "Berry & Thread" dinner plates will cost approximately $156.00 for 4 plates. The salad plate is also apart of the same collection only shown in pistachio and scalloped. The cereal bowl is also included in the collection. The pitcher is shown in the largest size and will cost you about $94.00 Don't forget the mugs, but my FAVORITE, FAVORITE Juliska pieces are their glassware and unfortunately I did not take a great picture because you can barely see the prettiest wine glass (for causal use) I have ever, ever, ever seen. Juliska's Graham drinkware is oh so pretty, with a clean look with just enough detail to not be boring. I love it. The wine glass holds 8 ounces a set of four will unfortunately cost you $296.00 but you can buy them individually. The Graham drinkware collection has any piece you could possibly need to serve a beverage from.

I love dishes, and parties and entertaining. So it's only natural that I would love to own Herend porcelain dinnerware. I can imagine that in one of Martha's houses she definitely has Herend. The picture is of one of Herend's best selling collections "Queen Victoria." Herend began 180 years ago producing porcelain for rulers, historical personages, leading businessmen and artist. So for "Queen Victoria" or "Rothschild"(which has been produced for 150 years) to be best sellers is not surprising. I would definitely pick "Queen Victoria" (and one other pattern) if given the opportunity to "go wild" at Herend. This particular pattern is a white porcelain with hand painted floral and butterfly design with a 24 karat yellow gold trim. When you have this kind of handcrafted detail and years of invested craftsmanship, there will regrettably be a heavy price tag attached to own and cherish a picturesque table setting. The dinner plate alone is $175.00, the salad plate $135.00, the bread and butter $125.00, tea cup (which holds 8 ounces) $120.00 and the saucer is $60.00. To sum it up, it will cost $615.00 for one place setting of Herend's Queen Victoria's dinnerware or $7,380.00 in case you would like to have a dinner party for 12. That is definitely dramatic for anyone! The napkins are gold organza and the napkin rings look like Michael Aram but I am not certain.

Blue is not usually one of my favorite colors (turquoise yes, blue not so much) but, this table was fresh, pristine and crisp. I was really drawn to it. Most likely because it is assembled with Juliska dinnerware and glassware with a linen napkin and a candle to top it all off. The Juliska dinnerware is all from the "Berry and Thread" collection in different color choices. The glassware is from Juliska's "Ella" collection, it's the large tumbler, it holds 16 ounces and cost about $54.00. To top off the simple but slightly dramatic table setting each place setting was given a Michael Aram "Magnolia" candle. This over the top candle is not only decorative and fragrant, but will burn for 60 hours with it's triple wicks in soy wax. The extraordinary feature you will not see on other candles is the nickle plate lid with the embellished enameled magnolia flower on top. It's gorgeous and smells like the flower it represents. Top off your guest with this candle and you are screaming DRAMATIC. The Michael Aram candles are available in four other scents and embellishments at $60.00. Michael Aram has many wonderful things for your home and tabletop.

A couple of looks for a dramatic evening of entertaining.

Movie Birthday Party

2010-06-21T17:14:00.000-07:00

My sweet girl wanted a movie party this year. So, that is what she got. The popcorn boxes are the cake. I had each girl her own mini cake made in the shape of a popcorn box. They turned out sooooooooooo cute, Brenham Olde Towne Bakery did a great job. They were adorable and yummy.

We took all the girls to a local Italian restaurant, I went ahead of time and decorated the tables and set out the cakes, balloons, movie reels, glittered top hats, party favors, napkins, etc... After dinner it was to the movie to see Shrek 3 then two hours of unlimited play at Horseshoe Junction (go-carts, laser tag, bumper boats, rock wall, mini golf, mini bowling, etc...).

The party favors were Justin Bieber CD and bracelets (the stretchy ones shaped like different things).
The party was fun and easy going, with seven girls it was no problem to do dinner, movie and Horseshoe Junction. It was a fun night and everyone enjoyed the party, most of all the birthday girl.

My Favorite Jewelry (at the moment)

2010-06-20T17:57:00.000-07:00

Like my life and the changes it may go through, the jewelry I am interested in changes too.

This is one of my favorite necklaces, by Waxing Poetic,it is called the Thin Rolo with Brass Beads Chain and it is 32 inches long and cost around $68.00. I have it with the Remedy in a Bottle Peace pendant it cost about $60.00, I love this bottle pendant, it's kind of "I Dream of Jeannie" like. The other is the Wing and a Prayer Peace Charm which cost around $48.00, I can always use a little more peace. In both of these charms/pendants Waxing Poetic offers several different styles, the bottles come in Love Elixir, Wish Tonic, and more.

I wear this necklace usually with the long "peace" necklace, but not exclusively. Again this is by Waxing Poetic,the chain is called the Flat Cable it is 18 inches and cost about $35.00. The charm is called the Whimsies Charm/Clover for around $43.00, they have several images to choose from. I have two charms on this necklace, but try to take a picture of your necklace hanging from a stalk of corn. Not easy! The charms really did not want to cooperate, so the next picture shows you the other charms. On any given day I never know which will be showing or if both will. I like it that way.

This is the Birth Ornament Charm which is about $38.00. No my birthday is not in April, but I like April's birth stone better and who wouldn't it's a DIAMOND!!!! Way, way, way, unfair to the rest of us.
Waxing Poetic began in 2002, by two sisters and is based out of Los Olivos, California. Waxing Poetic is more than just necklaces and charms, I'm sure you'll find something you love as much as I have. Check out all they have to offer: charms,pendants, necklaces,chains, bracelets, rings, and earrings Next on my Waxing Poetic wish list: Bracelets!

Also on my list of new fav's are this Pandora stack able rings. You can mix and mingle them with anything. They are made to be all mixable or not, it's up to you. Best part is they are affordable and stylish. I love giant, huge rings and these are not big. So it was surprising to me when I did like them so much. I might be addicted, just a little. The sterling silver bands are from $30 to $35 dollars. The rings with stones are a little more only because they have a little gold on them, but even at $115 and $120 they are a great price. Again they are made by Pandora. Next up on my Pandora wish list: a Gray Pearl Ring for $55.00 to wear with the two twisted silver bands, and there is one other ring I love.

WHERE TO GET WAXING POETIC & PANDORA
If you live in Brenham you can easily get both Waxing Poetic and Pandora at:
Nellie's (please tell them I sent you, this is NOT a paid ad, promise)
200 West Alamo/ 979-830-1756
They have a GREAT selection of both and you can try it on.

If you don't live in Brenham
www.waxingpoetic.com
www.pandora-jewelry.com

Misc Post all kinds of Fun and Favorite Things

2010-04-26T05:55:00.000-07:00

When having guest over, why not use the the silver tray and pretty dishes, they are not just for the holidays. They are some of my favorite things. I love pretty dishes.And who doesn't love a great hors d'oeuvre and wine with friends.

I have a thing for cutting boards, don't ask! The bowl is full of key limes. It just looks fresh and ready for spring.

I love this plate, it's turquoise and I fill it will all kinds of things. Right now, lemons, artichokes, and avocados.

A great wire wine bottle carrier that also has a candlestick on one end. I fill it with wine, water, sometimes flowers, lemonade for the children, a variety of things. Plus on the table my current favorite little baskets for flowers. They are so sweet and any flowers look precious in them.

This is one of my different collections, a bowl full of turtle shells. Odd maybe, but I like them, and maybe they are really not that odd I can always find some at Round Top. The frogs are wonder boys favorite things in the whole house (at least that what he tells me). Put your favorite things or collections in a great bowl and they will look super. I also display family photos this way to.

I ALWAYS keep adorable plates and napkins around for on the go. We do go to the barn to work with the horses and take snacks, or pool, you never know. This way I'm always prepared and we can eat out and about in style and fun. Why not!

A great adult party favor, a small bottle of champagne. Make your own name tags (use card stock paper) and a corner rounder pick out a pretty ribbon and tie it all onto the bottle. The bottle then can be used as a place card for your dinner party and end the evening as a party favor as well. LOVE IT.

Enjoy the post, just a few different things and ideas.
Tikaa

Kate's Wedding Shower

2010-04-24T19:29:00.000-07:00

This is the start of a beautiful ending. We made a mess, but the end result was so pretty and the party was a success. Now Shannon and I are not Jeff Leatham (who is an incredible floral designer for the Four Seasons Hotel George V in Paris, who by the way took his first job as a floral designer never working with flowers before) but we can create a pretty little arrangement.

We started with the Gladiolus and elected to tie them together with a little raffia and then place them in a huge vase, our next decision, what to keep them upright with! Key Limes, yes, that was the answer. Only problems was we didn't have any and the party was only hours away, Shannon was in her gown I believe and I was in no shape to run into HEB, I had huge hot rollers in my hair and no make up on, NOT exactly HEB appropriate. So we made a phone call and in no time at all 10 bags of key limes were in our hot little hands (little did we know we need 16 bags).

The Gladiolus went in to the vase and we did need all 10 bags of key limes to stabilize the Gladiolus and keep them from moving. It worked and they looked great. There is a better picture later.

Next we worked on the roses, After Shannon cleaned the stems off and bundling them together I began to wrap the stems with french ribbon. Be careful of the thorns! The roses were also going to be surrounded by key limes so we needed to stabilize the roses and pack in the key limes, only we were out of key limes AGAIN! Never fear, another phone call and 6 more bags of key limes appeared.

We used a floral frog to brace the bouquet, before we put it into the vase and added the key limes and water. The floral frog is a must, I'm not sure you can get around using one.

The end result.

We made a couple vases of Rosemary and Pink Spray Roses, Shannon has oodles of Rosemary in her yard and when added to the other line up of arrangements the Rosemary and Roses not only were a pretty compliment but an extraordinary smelling one to.

The flowers before we left with them to go to the shower. A pre-line up of how it was going to look.

The table at the shower (not my home, the shower was at a ranch in Chappell Hill). That's Anthea and Sharon (another shower hostess) in the background.

Some of the shower food, it was a tea party so if there is tea and scones then lemon bars will be close by.

These scones and clotted cream were delicious, I am embarrassed to admit how many I ate. They were Oh so Yummy!

Stuffed Strawberries. There are lots of options when stuffing strawberries, cream cheese and powdered sugar with a little vanilla, some stuff them with cheesecake, tiramisu, creme brulee, and chocolate.

Tea anyone?

It was a bridal shower, so a little heart shaped love cookie was made for fun. I didn't get pictures of all the food, I would start talking and forget or go serve a few drinks (we did serve twelve bottles of champagne)there was other food in addition to the sweet. Sorry I get carried away sometimes, in the mix of it all I forget to get more pictures of the other food.

The shower was picturesque with the pretty flowers,dainty food and wonderful guest. The day was beautiful, the bride is sweet as can be and the wedding will be very special.

Simple Table Scape

2010-04-24T18:17:00.000-07:00

This was for dinner one night, it was simple, no fuss and pretty. All white plates and linens. Then I used my new favorite flower containers(the little baskets with three little bottles in each) and added the pink roses and tea lights. Simple and pretty and took no time at all.

A close up of the tea lights and small vases both by Juliska (which I have used many times on my blog in different settings and situations). Juliska is a European design company that mixes a classic look with modern day edge giving a stylish look to any room. Juliska glassware is mouth-blown by artisans outside of Prague, the glassware is thin (which is phenomenal, it feels great in your hands and is astonishingly nice to drink from) and being mouth-blown no two pieces are the same. Juliska ceramics, linens, lighting and flatware are also available. I've only adventured into the glassware so far, but it all looks beautiful.

Quick Goat Cheese Hors d'oeuvre

2010-04-24T17:02:00.000-07:00

Goat Cheese, Fresh Basil and Balsamic Vinegar. Yummy
This could not be easier. Pour the balsamic vinegar (as much or as little as you like) over the goat cheese then top with the chopped basil. Serve with different crackers and your done. The crackers we like are: Sesmark Savory Thins Sesame Rice Crackers Original, Rice Works Gourmet Brown Rice Crisps Sea Salt, New York Style Bagel Crisp Sea Salt, or any thing with cracked pepper is also yummy!
Another little tip, the Balsamic Vinegar is from Williams-Sonoma it's by Olivier. The Olivier company ages their balsamic vinegar for 25 years, traditional balsamic vinegars are aged about 12 years. Olivier is produced in Modena, Italy. It's not horribly expensive but it's not something your going to pick up at Wal-Mart or HEB either.

Special thanks to Shannon, her idea and pictures are of her house. Sorry about the picture quality I used my iphone and it was dark, we were having an adult evening. Plus we kind of attacked it before I remembered the pictures. Enjoy.

Round Top Antique Time

2010-03-27T20:56:00.001-07:00

It's Round Top Antique time again and the past week and this week will be filled with lots of visitors to the area, but most importantly great shopping. Today I made a trip to Warrenton and Round Top with the tons of other people, but the weather was great and everyone was friendly. Now for a few details:
Tuesday,March 30th Marburger Farm opens, admission is $25 and includes parking. After Tuesday admission is $10, but the passes are good all week. Marburger is a must.
Also on Tuesday but in the evening Arbor Antiques host a wine and cheese party they are located at 1503 North State Highway 237, Round Top,Tx (look for the big white tent, 1 mile north of Round Top square).
Again this Tuesday Rifle Hall will have their preview party starting at 4:45 p.m. they will have live music as well as tons of antiques. Admission is $15 and good until Saturday at 4 p.m.
Wednesday,March 31th is the Grand Opening Party of The Big Red Barn, located at 475 South Highway 237 Round Top,Tx you can't miss it.
Thursday, April 1st is the Junk Gypsy Junk-o-Rama Prom at Zapp Hall, starts at twilight. Fun, fun, fun. So put on your tutu and boots and head out.
Other Favorites already open and ready for busines are: EXCESS, CLUTTER, Cole's, Bar W Field (LOVE IT), and on and on.
The above picture is from a spot in the Bar W field.

I loved this mirror the color was pretty, the style was great. It was going home with someone else. Again this was in the Bar W field.

We probably all have a to many bowls, but this bowl was HUGE and so many amazing things could be done with it. That bowl would look great with anything in it I'm positive. Also in the Bar W field.

These were very industrial and kind of neat. I liked them and they are not me, but people change. The entire booth had an industrial look and feel to it. I plan to go back and look again. You can find it in the Bar W field close to the road.

If industrial is not your thing, maybe bright and bold is. Round Top/Warrenton has it all! You will see everything and everyone wearing almost anything. It's a great place to shop and a super place to people watch. The above picture is very bright, but the ladies who own the shop make a yummy little drink and have some cute things I didn't take enough pictures because I started talking (imagine that). I did go back for another drink,and learn how to make it.

These bags were located at the same spot as the bright and bold picture above, the bags are by Consuela, they are adorable and functional. She also carries clothes (not bright and crazy), shoes and jewelry. The owner's name is Hayley and her business is Cottage Gatherings it is located in the Campbell Building in downtown Warrenton. She is also featured in the new Guide to The Round Top Experience The Ultimate Guide to Antiquing, Lodging, Dining & Year Round Activities.

Just a quick funny picture, this is something that will NOT be coming to my house. Birds freak me out. I do not like them. Now to move on.

Everyone needs a tutu for the Prom. They are cute, but it would definetly be a Round Top only wardrobe item. Plus if you are going to wear the tutu, wear it like you own it, like you mean it, like you love it, like it's best thing you ever put on. Otherwise you'll look silly. Own the TUTU! I think I want one, but what color?

For anyone who likes a drink, Cheers! This was at Leftovers on the way home from Round Top. Leftovers Antiques is on 3900 Highway 290 west in Brenham and the owners Ed and Michael can do no wrong. They have it all and then some. It's a must to check out.

More from Round Top.

Beds -
So many beautiful beds, bedding, everywhere! Who doesn't love a a beautiful bed that isn't to fussy that screams curl up in me.

LOVE,the bedding in each of these picture. Can't say it enought LOVE IT!
Both of these can be found at The Sweat Pea Collection in Warrenton.

Not beautiful, do not want it, can't even believe it's sitting there. But I had to take the picture. In the Bar W field a ton of Bubble Wrap for sale. So if your moving or REALLY into bubble wrap, there it is.

These are again HUGE bowls, and look great. I bought one last year in red. These are from the big red and white striped tent close to the road in the bar w field.

After a long day of walking the fields, tents, shops and roads we all need a glass of wine and maybe even a bottle. When you uncork your favorite red wine throw your cork into the giant glass bottle for a fun. But don't remove the wood it's the best feature.

If I could have found a way to justified spending the money I would have brought this home and would have it one RIGHT NOW! This is the one thing I wanted SUPER BAD. She is beautiful and I know you are all shaking your head right now. But really I promise, she's NEAT!!

When going to Round Top, a white linen top is always good, jeans or skirt, and even a cute dress, and of course a cute tote bag to carry all your goodies. Plus dont forget your sunglasses and great jewerly. Please no Crocs, but Cowboy boots are pecfect.

New Favorite Thing

2010-03-16T13:44:00.000-07:00

Hunter Boots (The Orginal Wellington)
A friend of mine has a pair in the famous green color and she had mention I should get a pair before going to New York. Now their are two things I must stop and explain first, my friend as sweet as she is and as cute as her boot are is not know for her fashion. Second these are rubber boots we are talking about, I couldn't imagine packing rubber boots to New York.This turned out to be a MISTAKE, HUGE, GIANT, I really should have listened I wasn't five minutes out of the hotel in New York and Hunter boots were everywhere. It was like a giant poke in the eye or maybe stomp on the toe is a better description. I jumped on my phone so fast to google where to get a pair and lucky me Saks Fifth Avenue was close by. I called, requested my size and color to be put on hold please, please, please and "I'm sorry we're out" AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!! Never fear their is always the internet and the upside to the Hunter website is the amount of colors available. I know I mentioned Saks Fifth Avenue a sentence or two back, but not to worry the Original Tall Welly is only $115.00, visit Hunter's website usa.hunter-boot.com
When your wearing your fancy rubber boots you can feel like royality. The Hunter company receieved the royal warrants in 1977, which is a mark of recognition to people or companies who regularly supplied goods or services for at least five years to certain members of the Royal Family. They have always been reqarded as a mark of excellence and quality and are highly prized.
Your can feel like a Queen or King (available for men and childre)in your boots.
Don't be surprised if you see me in town in mine, Round Top,the fair (horse), barn, you never know what I might put them on with.

Internet

2010-03-09T09:15:00.001-08:00

My Internet is down at home, but should be fixed tomorrow and back to my blog I go. I miss it! My land line and Internet did not get fixed until today (late) Sunday, March 14. Now I need to decide what I should blog about next: The Rodeo, Batten Luncheon, Easter, ONZE, the ideas are endless.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Tea Time at the Gidding Stone Mansion

2010-02-28T19:33:00.000-08:00

I guess about a month or so ago I recieved a call from a lovely women who is a community legend asking if I would like to participate in the Brenham Hertiage Society/Gidding Stone Mansion Tea Party. I have particiapated before and considered it a huge honor to be asked again and agreed to decorate a table.

This is the beginning, I hauled all my things in. This was Saturday morning and honest I brought a ton of stuff and while hauling it all in I was in a bit of a panic because I still had not decided what I was going to do exactly. I had my china, I bought flowers, and even had a burlap table topper made, but that was it. The night before in a MAD panic I ran to Wallies and grabbed some pete moss, kraft paper, ribbon, and white thin bar towels. I was hopeful I could "Make it work."

The tea was on Sunday, and I bought all the flowers on Thursday. I know, kind of risky but I really wanted the roses to be as open as possible and I knew I could keep them all cold and happy. On the chair is the party favors for my invited guest. For the tea party you are welcome to purchase your table and invite whom ever you wish or the Society will fill your table for you. I purchased my table, and since I was inviting friends to join me, I of course wanted to have party favors for everyone. Wrapped in kraft paper and tied with a pink grograin ribbon everyone recieved a small box of chocolates and a box of tea.

To start I covered the cloth that was already down on the table with a burlap table topper I had made ahead of time. Then added the pete moss in the middle and crossed my fingers and went from there.

Adding the china and crystal and working on spacing, still not knowing what I am going to do for a center piece and getting a little nervous, but I like the pete moss. I like the natural elements of the moss and burlap and I have two bags of small green apples waiting in the wings.

Finished with bare neccessities, but still no center piece and wow factor.

Okay, what do you think? I work best under pressure.

A closer look.

More pictures.

There were several other tables and I took pictures of most of them they are shown below.

My guest: Shannon, Sharon, Courtney, Becky, Mallory, Cynthia and Cissy

The center piece now at my home. I have to start pulling out the Easter decorations, it's my daughters favorite holiday.

Valetine's Day Treat

2010-02-11T06:34:00.000-08:00

Valentine's Day is this weekend. This is just a cute little fun idea. I sent these to my son's class as a "Special Delivery" and Valentine treat. They are Marshmallow heart shaped lollipops, in two shades of pink. CUTE!

I made a label for each lollipop that read,"Roses are Red, Violets are Blue, This Special Delivery is just for you."

Boxed up all together and ready to be sent off to surprise the class (or anyone you want to surprise). Looks fun - RIGHT?????

After all the lollipops have labels and are boxed up, I wrapped in brown paper, tied twine around the box and added "Special Delivery" all over the box. Next it was delivered to my sons class. They had a great time getting the package and enjoyed the lollipops.

I hope everyone has a Happy Valentine's Day.

The Book Spring Edition

2010-02-07T11:12:00.000-08:00

A couple of days ago, I think (who can remember anymore with all the campaign things I've been up to) I opened up the mailbox and their it was! THE BOOK, now The Neiman Marcus Book is like the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue for my husband - he can look but can't have a single thing. It's the same for me and THE BOOK, I can look all day, but can not have a thing!

One of the first things in THE BOOK to make me stop and want to ripe the page out was this watch. A Chanel bracelet watch, ceramic, stainless steel and diamonds. We could all have one for $16,750.00 (larger style) or $14,500.00 (smaller style).

When I turned the page and saw this dress I knew immediately it was perfect for Douglas' debate tomorrow night, RIGHT????? Campaigning is busy work and I have to look good (Vote Cone). So, this beautiful Escandar would just be the best dress for me I was sure of it, till I read and saw it only comes in two sizes a 0 and 1, plus there was the $795.00. That's alot of campaign signs I could buy, or newspaper ads. I'm not positive but I bet my head is bigger than a 0 or 1.

Finally something available in my size! But, once again the $525.00 would send my husband into instant cardiac arrest. They are adorable, sweet little denim skimmers by Chanel (also available in black). Add a cute dress and great bag, perfect.

Judith Leiber bags are more like museum pieces rather than actual evening bags. I'd probably drop it and ding it up or knock something off. Really I'm feeling bad for the person who had to put all those stones on that bag. Oh my goodness, they need to find that person for Maifest (a Brenham tradition). This particular bag "Golden Bird" is $5,595.00, and you could probably fit your cell phone and lip gloss in it.

Aaaaaaahhhh, something I love, love, love! John Hardy is always on my list of wants. Absolutely my favorite jewelry designer. His jewelry can be worn everyday with jeans, or dressy. It's totally up to you.

This is THE new crystal to have. WILLIAM YEOWARD CRYSTAL, these particular pieces are from the Country collection.
Simple, beautiful and really in right now. The wine carafe and funnel $100.00 and the two "Maggie" glasses $100.00.

So, I know lately there have been no food post, and my blogging has been slow lately. But hang with me, I'll be back in full swing before you know it. Douglas is running for re-election (Justice of the Peace, Pct.2) and it takes alot of time and energy. All my time and energy has been going to get Douglas re-elected, it's so important to him, he loves every part of working for the county.

Balleria Party

2010-01-30T22:05:00.001-08:00

If you have a daughter then you can probably remember her first day of ballet and fluffy tutu's and pink leotards. I remember my daughters first days of ballet, I even remember my first ballet recital and dancing to I'm a little Tea Pot.
One this day one sweet little girl will celebrate her birthday with tutu's, dancing, face painting and a tower of fluffy cupcakes. This banner was there to greet her guest and what a great job it did, and a super decoration it made. I'd have such a hard time taking it done (La Nae -the Mommy said the same thing). It was made here in Brenham by a local artist. Adorable isn't enough said about it - it's just so so so so CUTE!

The ballerina's invitation (sorry I had to hide the address and phone number), notice the banner and invitation are similar.

The party favors, notice the party tags (La Nae-the mommy, said she saw this on my blog) and look at the CD (again another Green Acres Brenham blog post). La Nae is so sweet and such a fan of my blog, I love that she asked me to come over and fluff a little and take a few photos to share with everyone.

I wonder if Dancing Queen is on the CD?

You couldn't be a ballerina without a tutu, so each little girl was given a tutu to wear.

The chandelier was fluffed up with ribbon and beads,it was fun,I liked it. La Nae used wrapping paper (like I used back in an October post) as a runner for the table and lots of yummy treats to eat.

Notice the sugar topped marshmallows, a post from the past. Again La Nae such a great supporter of Green Acres Brenham, gotta love her. But, I love all my reader. Your comments and email are so kind and re-energize me.

This is precious, a cupcake tower. The cupcakes were make by Brenham Olde Towne Bakery and the tower is available through them (rental). La Nae had the tutu made to fit about the base of the tower, which MADE the tower! The cupcakes were iced with white icing and heart or pink icing and heart. I assembled the tower by assorting the cupcakes and then adding simple curl ribbon here and there to each level of the tower. I loved the cup cake tower, they are becoming more popular, but who doesn't love, love, love a cupcake. Plus you can make everyone happy and get all kinds of flavors of cakes and icings when ordering cupcakes. Another thing to keep in mind when ordering cupcakes - think MINI's. Mini cupcakes are also so cute and mixing the cupcake sizes as well as the flavors. Fun and Yummy.
After all was set up and looking precious and basically ready to go and waiting for the children I (with my camera,I never leave home without) headed out. I am sure the party was a success and all was a hit. Happy Birthday Gillian and Happy Birthday La Nae. What a great mom she had her daughters birthday party on her own birthday.

Kids first. We love our babies, big or small.
I'll post next on how to make the clipboards from Wonderboards Boys party.