Blame It On The Toes

Kid Approved! Spaghetti & Turkey Meatballs!

2012-01-29T17:17:00.000-08:00

I've never posted a recipe on my blog before, but this year my goal is to cook more and fun things for our son. :) I always shared recipes with friends and family so why not?

I found the recipe originally on All Recipes of course like the picky eater I am I changed a few things to make this recipe somewhat healthy. My nieces & nephews (ages ranging 4 years -13 years old) here in Houston have all tried it and LOVE it! And of course Jett is a big fan! Oh and have no idea the meatballs are turkey. Even after they found out still gobbled it right up!

So what did I change?? For my version I used ground turkey rather then ground beef (not as greasy), added mushrooms, & tomatoe sauce (I like more sauce)

What I love the most about this recipe it is very inexpensive and it fills quite a few bellies. We always have left overs that we eat the next day for lunch or dinner again (it's THAT good). Also, most of these ingredients were already in my pantry. WIN WIN! Don't be decieved by the long grocery list below. It really isn't that much. Seems like it, but once it is said in done this dinner probably would cost around $10 or so. STEAL!!

If you have a TODDLER. This is a great finger dinner food. So easy for them to eat. Since the ground turkey just crumbles in their mouth. Not a lot of work for them to chew. Once the meatballs and sauce are done. To save for later meals I spoon out a I few meatballs that have been cooked & place them in a BPA free tupperware container. Then I stick in the freezer. Whenever I need one for dinner or lunch. I pull one out. Zap it in the microwave for 30 seconds and give it to my little one.****

Your Grocery List

For Meatballs
1 lb Ground Turkey
1 cup fresh bread crumbs

1 tablespoon dried parsley

1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

1/8 teaspoon garlic powder

1 egg, beaten

Sauce

3/4 cup chopped onion

mushrooms

5 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup olive oil

2 (28 ounce) cans whole peeled tomatoes

2 teaspoons salt

1 can of tomato sauce

1 teaspoon white sugar

1 bay leaf

1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste

3/4 teaspoon dried basil

1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

Pasta

Whole Wheat Spaghetti

Let Us Cook!

Making the SAUCE: In a large pot over medium heat, saute onion and garlic in olive oil until onion is translucent. Stir in tomatoes, mushroom, tomatoe sauce, salt, sugar and bay leaf. Cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer 90 minutes.

Forming the MEATBALLS: As the sauce is brewing. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, bread crumbs, parsley, Parmesan, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, garlic powder and beaten egg. Mix well and form into 12 balls. Store, covered, in refrigerator until needed.

Adding Meatballs: Stir in tomato paste, basil, 1/2 teaspoon pepper and meatballs into the sauce and simmer 30 minutes more. Yes, you read right add meatballs straight into the sauce. Cooking in the sauce prevents the meatballs from drying out. Occasionaly & lightly (without breaking the meatballs apart) stir the meatballs so they don't stick to the bottom.

Cook Pasta: Boil water. Add whole wheat pasta noodles. Strain.

The finished product

(please excuse the paper plate all of our dishes are packed since we are still renovating)

Soooo Jett what do you think???

Looks like it's a winner! Happy customer!

Enjoy!! I will be posting more recipes. I am all about cooking in 2012!!

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Whoa 6 months!

2011-11-04T14:09:00.000-07:00

I can't believe my last post was 6 months ago!! So much has happened in such a short period of time. The last time I posted on my blog I was going through some stuff with adjusting being a new working mommy. 6 months later things have been AWESOME!! Here is the update in our lives...

My JOB: A month after posting my emotional confession of being a new mommy....I quit my miserable job of 5 years. It was one of the best decisions I've ever made. Right now I need to work. I figured if I am going to work and be away from my baby it needs to be worth it. So I started my new job and I LOVE it! So much more laid back and better opportunities! I love the environment!! I didn't realize how miserable I was at my last job until I started working at my new one. It is amazing how much happier I am with just that one change.
Renovations: The week before Thanksgiving we got the go ahead to start some renovations in the living room and kitchen. This house has not been updated since 1959. So you could imagine what all we had to do. To start off with....

Removed the acoustic tile ceilings because they were falling apart and just collecting so much nastiness. Replaced it with sheet rock & paint
Added 14 canned dim-able lights to the living/kitchen. Before we only had 3 and it was soooo dark! It is so much better now.
We painted the wood paneling.
Removed old rubber tile and linoleum and replaced with large tile. (Looks amazing and feels so clean!!)
Removed an old peninsula and added a incredible island built by my talented hubby!
Removed all cabinets and building new cabinets, drawers, counters.
Doing granite tile counters.

Can't wait to show the before and after finished project. Mike has done an amazing job so far. It has really transformed the room for the better. The best thing is Jett is able to be in that room now since it is clean and open. We have a little more to do before I will post pics!! It is awesome though. Till then we are still eating off of paper plates and plastic ware, but it is all worth it!

Our Little Guy: Jett is 11 months!! He is so incredible. We are lucky to have a baby that is so laid back. Obviously he has grown sooo much since he was 5 months old when I posted last so here are some recent milestone for him. ...

He has been teething this whole time and has been such a trooper. He now has 7 teeth!! 4 on the top and 3 on the bottom. And has a beautiful smile!!

We've celebrated quite a few events/holidays the past 6 months.....

For Halloween he was Jett-san the Karate kid. Daddy was Mr. Miyagi.

We celebrated Jett's 1st Thanksgiving at Grammy's. He loved having his Thanksgiving feast with everyone. He was so sleepy after all that Turkey!

He also watched the last Texas A&M & U.T game.....ending a long time rivarly on Thanksgiving. Hopefully when Jett goes to A&M it will be back on!

Jett's 1st Christmas!! For his 1st Christmas we went first to Grammy's for Christmas Eve to open gifts with all the cousins and then to Christmas Eve service. He was more excited about everyone else's gifts then his own.

In his Christmas Jammies

Santa came!

Our annual Christmas card. Jett's daddy wanted to go with the gift box theme from last year's card. I didn't do much photoshop this year. Only to the background. The dogs were great during it. Jett was the one that was hard to get his attention. He was so preoccupied by all the tinsel. Below are some out takes from the Christmas card photo session.

He discovered Bentley's bell....

Yummy

I'm staaaanding!!!!

Now I'm not :-(. BTW he was not hurt at all. He got up with all smiles and dirt in his mouth.

This is the one that made it into the card

He is eating real people food and loves it! One of his favorite things to eat is mommy's turkey meatballs and some frozen blueberries! Our little guy just started to WALK a couple of weeks ago at 10.5 months old! He is starting quite early, but it is pretty awesome to watch.He is getting better and better at it. He still looks like Godzilla standing tall and walking as if he rules the world one step at a time. It is so awesome to watch! He loves his walker that Grammy & Paw Paw got him.

The next big event will be Jett's 1st birthday!! I've been planning this for quite a while. It will be an airplane themed party. I will post all my DIY items I have been doing in the next couple of post. :)

The steps....

2011-06-23T11:53:00.000-07:00

I just have to say WOW! THANK YOU THANK YOU....everyone for your responses. I had many "AHA" moments reading every one's comments on the post below. It really was a HUGE relief knowing that mommies and non-mommies could relate to how I am feeling. I wasn't the only one who felt possessed by the nutso hormones! Also, I realized that there ARE solutions to getting me back!! Well...slowly, but surely. There is hope! So much great advice was given...seriously why didn't I post about this earlier???

So after reading every one's comments here and on facebook. I decided on a few baby steps I am going to take to start the search of who I am again. I think it will begin like a treasure hunt...eager to hunt for the gold, but frantically searching until you finally have decoded the map/clues and have an idea where "X" marks the spot. So it will definitely be a trial and error thing until I really figure it out too see what really clicks for me. So here goes......!

1. Supplement Feed...I actually started doing this past weekend! I was stressing myself out (as you read before) sooo much not being able to keep up with the demand that my son needed at daycare. So he is getting 1/2 of BM and 1/2 of formula at daycare, nurse when we get home and nurse at night....let's face it nursing is easier in the middle of night.. One of the only conveniences of nursing....there is no adding water, shaking or stirring involved just whip it out and there it is. ha!

Anyways.... Just doing that these past 4 days at work I have pumped more than I EVER have! I guess the pressure of me thinking my son would suffer not getting just BM has been lifted off my shoulders. He is doing great with the supplement he is still so happy like nothing has changed. Except his diapers WHOA are so much stinkier now! I hear it is worse when baby's start solids! Gotta invest in some masks!

2. Connect Spiritually...this has been a tough one. I would love to go to church, but the last time we went the baby did good until the sermon and he got antsy and I had to walk out. I don't think their was a viewing room either. I looked around and didn't see anything so I gave up and went to the truck. Gotta try again one day. However, I am a spiritual person and I firmly believe you don't physically need to go to a place of worship to believe and have a relationship with the big guy. I have lost touch though so I need to get connected again. So for the time being I will listen to podcasts of my church's sermons online and finish the book "The Shack." I hear this book is awesome! I think this will be a large factor in getting "me" back. Since my soul is so lost.

3. Treat myself with a new look... I desperately need this. Not a HUGE overhaul makeover, but just a much needed tune up. I need a hair cut, new outfit and pedi...I think I would feel refreshed and want to keep this look going. I am going to try to get away from the pony tail and dull outfits at work. Remember "TRY" it will be pretty difficult to get away from at least the pony tail since it is just so easy and the baby is in a stage of wanting to yank my hair out of my scalp with his great super baby strength! So it will be try for the pony tail for now. I will post a pic of my new look later! :-)

4. Date Nights with Hubby... This was a big piece of advice that most people gave on how to find not just "me" back, but my relationship with my husband. I am going to schedule 2 date nights this coming month with my husband. And we will actually treat this like a "date" and not just like a typical night of going out to eat and to the movies. Maybe we will get to share a cherry coke....ha!! What I really want to get is that feeling you get when you are anticipating the "1st kiss". I want to fall in love again....not that I am not in love with my husband, but you know what I am talking about. The type of in love that you get a tingling feeling all over and the uncontrollable smiling when you think of your honey. This might be all a dream, but hey it doesn't hurt to try!

These are alot of things and I am sure it will take much more than this to get "me" back, but they are small little steps to start off. Thanks again everyone for the tips. If you think of anything else please let me know! I would love to hear them!

Confessions of a New Mommy....I am unhappy....

2011-06-19T20:45:00.000-07:00

This blog is really not the true topic you would be reading about (DIY stuff), but I need to get this off my chest. To make me sane again as a person. I am going to lay it all out in the open, which I rarely do (I feel like Jerry in the movie "Jerry Maguire" at this point ha!). Do you want to know what it is really like to be a first time mom? The truth not the "fluff" about how it is really hard, but the most rewarding thing EVER and so on and so on (it is rewarding, but there is more too it). Keep reading!

I have officially been a mother to a live male human being for 18 weeks & 4 days. In the books you read and in the clasess you are told that this thing called being a mom is HARD because you will be so tired with the feedings, putting the baby to sleep and blah blah blah...... Yes yes yes yes....I am tired & sleepy....with my son thinking I am an "all you can eat buffet" at 2 am & 4 am. Yes yes yes yes....I am frustrated that my baby doesn't want to sleep when I want him to sleep....these things really have a mind of their own. Yes...I am the mom experiencing all these typical things you hear & read about. But what you can't really prepare for the roller coasters you go through emotionally.

Today I realized that I have not been "me" in 18 weeks & 4 days. I have been just a shell of person...more like a robot/mommy slave with milk shooting out of its' chest. I know I am not suffering from postpardum depression, but what I do know is I am really unhappy of who I am right now. I am not the best version of myself to give to my son, my husband, my family and friends. What I am just trying to do is just get through each day. Hoping that I am survive and get through another day, which is very sad. To be living like that.

It is the same routine... wake up at midnight...baby goes nom nom nom. I roll over and feed...pat pat pat. He is done and back to sleep. 3 am again baby goes nom nom nom. I roll over and feed...pat pat pat and pray he wakes up closer to 7 am so I can sleep an extra hour, but no he wakes up at 6 am going nom nom nom. I feed and then just lay there dreading to get out of bed having to start the day. When I finally get the courage to get up now it is full time rush rush rush mode. I am running around with my hair looking like a nest in the kitchen thawing out pumped milk, brushing my teeth, & getting the baby's stuff ready for day care. I occasionally walk in too check on him. He is either sound asleep or smiling so big to start the day. I have no idea how this baby can be so happy EVERY morning! Because I am SOOOOO not! I continue to rush around the house. I put on half my clothes & makeup on. Then I hear in the background my husband getting the baby changed and dress for daycare. Whew....I think he will take the baby to daycare. I still rush around...I am finally ready to go to work with my pony tail and dull outfit. I don't have time to concentrate on my hair & outfit like I use too. Remember I am just trying to get through the day. I say bye to my boys and run out for my commute to work.

I get to work and rush rush there. I check my email and voicemail. Put out some fires and then on to the pumping room. To pump that oh so great milk out of my robot chest. I am in the pumping room playing Angry Birds and checking the feed on Facebook. Nothing exciting. I start thinking about why am I not pumping enough...my baby is going to STARVE! I am a bad mother....my baby is going to DIE. Yes...all this goes into my mind the short 15 minutes I am pumping. I finish up pumping and then I go back to work and then off too lunch. Now that is lunch what can I eat??? Oh no I can't eat that because baby will have gas or be cranky. I really don't want to walk to far because these heels hurt because I have been out of practice walking in them for a year. Anyways I get my lunch and eat at my boring gray cubicle desk and work. Again back to the pumping room....thinking about how my baby will die if I don't pump enough. I go back to work and pump one more time and then head out to go pick up my baby. This part of my day I really do look forward too. I get too see my baby. When I get to daycare I talk to my very awesome daycare provider. She tells me about how the baby did that day. I really eat up everything she says because I want to know how he did. I miss my baby. The small moment that I am happy because my baby is happy.

We then head home....waaah waah he cries. It is TOO hot in Houston! We get home...we let the dogs out. Walk around the yard watch them pee and then go inside. Nom nom nom baby is hungry. I feed him in my dull work clothes...he is done. I then put him in the swing while I get dinner ready. He is crying crying crying. He wants me to be near him. I tell him, "Buddy I am here you are not alone." He still cries. I walk up and stick his paci in his mouth. He is quiet and smiles. I walk away. He cries again. I give up and let him cry a little so I can make dinner and eat. Husband gets home picks up baby. I shovel my food in my mouth because robot mommy cannot enjoy her meals anymore. Then get baby ready for his bath and ready for bed. He finally sleeps at 8 pm. I wash dishes, bottles, and clothes. I then get all his stuff together for the next day. And I then take my long shower that I have been looking forward too ALL DAY! Yes....it is sad that one of the things I look forward to the most is my shower at night. This is the only time I can be alone and somewhat relax....key word "somewhat." I am in the shower thinking if the baby is crying or not and rush through that as well. It is 11 pm I am in bed. I am exhausted physically. I think at the end of each day...man this is a long day. I have to do it again...now I want to cry.

If you notice in my daily schedule. Not ONCE I think about me. I realized today. I don't EVER think about me. I know there are some sacrifices when becoming a mom, but you should never lose yourself as a person. Well I have. I don't think I can remember most recently that I am genuinely happy. Not a small moment of time that I was happy like when my baby giggle and smiles to me, but overall being happy as a person. I think as a new mom this has to be a common thing. You give give give give, but never let anyone give to you or give anything to yourself. We are so bogged down with the daily routine we forget to stop and actually smell the roses or in our case baby powder & formula.

Today I spoke to my husband about how unhappy I was. I want to feel emotion again. I want to be a person again. I want to give a crap about how I look and how I feel. I don't want to be feel like a shell of a person with no emotions just trying to get through each day. I want to laugh a real laugh. Not laugh just because I have too. I want to laugh so hard I pee in my pants. That is a real laugh. I want to fall in love again. I want to feel butterflies in my stomach when I see my husband. I want to have tears of joy when I see my son accomplish a milestone. I want to have a heart again.

So today....I am going to start living my life again. I have no idea how I am going to do this, but I sure am going to try now. My husbad made a great point...If mommy is unhappy then EVERYONE (husband, son, friends, family, etc.) is unhappy. It is so true. It is a ripple effect.

Don't get me wrong....I am IN LOVE with my husband and son! I would not trade them for anything in the world, but I want to be better for them. And I can't do that if I am not even here as me. I need to give the best version of myself and that should be a happy person who loves life and wants to share it with the two special guys in my life.

So I thought my first step to living is to express to the world (or blog world) on how I feel. There shouldn't be any hiding of it. We live in a world that everything should appear and perfect on the outside, but that is not the reality. I want to be "real" soooo "world here I am!"

Second is to ask support to help me start living. I can't do this by myself because I tried and failed. So I ask all my readers (the small group who is out there...ha!) help me out on how to do this. What can I do to start living?! I of course have to do this in baby steps. Please help! I know can't be the only one out in cyber world that feels this way. Being a numb empty shell. So please if you have any experience or tips on how to help me find myself I really really appreciate it!

Thank you for reading my LONG LONG rant....this was really for me to let it off my chest. I do feel much better. I think this was a great outlet for me to get it all out there. I think blogging not specifically my new mommy confessions, but what I am interested in general will make me feel better. I will have a sense of me again.

Disclaimer: If I have offended anyone I am really sorry. I just needed to let out what I am feeling. Thank you!

It's Been A While....

2011-06-15T19:21:00.000-07:00

Oh yes it has been! I have been a really bad blogger. We've just been SUPER busy this past month. I am still trying to get my groove into being a working mom. Been at it for 6 weeks and boy is it a challenge! I haven't been able to do any DIY projects lately. I hope to start some up soon! I have a pile of things that I need to do. I just want to thank you for being patient with my blog. I promise I will post more. I just need to add blogging as part of something I need to do (not because I HAVE to, but because I truely enjoy it!).

So be on the look out for some new blog post soon! In the mean time here is me with my little guy a couple of weeks ago at his 1st wedding. He is almost 4 months in this pic! I am a proud mama! He is getting so big!!

DIY: Personalized Eggs....um I guess Rocks

2011-05-14T11:18:00.000-07:00

For Easter all of Jett and his cousins on my husband's side were going to take a kids group pictures for their "Grammy". Then afterwards my very talented sister in law with Traci Robinson Photography was going to take some detail shots of Jett that we didn't get for his newborns since he wasn't really cooperating that day (he was 10 days old and was not happy).

With these details shots I wanted to use some type of prop and then I came across a blog that a crafty mom made personalized clay robin eggs. I thought this would fit perfect with Easter. So I was on the mission to make these eggs.....

This is her version of the eggs....keep scrolling down for instructions and see my attempt in making these "eggs."

Materials Needed (can be purchased at your local craft store...I got mine at Hobby Lobby_

1. Clay: that you can cook in the oven

2. Individual Alphabet Rubber Stamps

3. Acrylic Paint

4. Paint Brush

5. Foil

6. Cookie Sheet

7. Couple of pieces of paper towel

Instructions:

1.Preheat the oven to the directions of what the clay packet says (200 F)

2. Create a mold using the Aluminum Foil. Mold it into a size of a small egg.

I would make this smaller then the actual plastic egg if you are

using just 1 packet of clay.

3. Flatten your clay with a rolling pin or a thick drinking glass.

Tip: I used my finger tips to stretch out the clay to make it thinner.

4. Wrap your flatten clay around the foil mold that was created.

5. With your palm of your hands/fingers work & smoothen out the clay around the foil mold. Until there isn't any foil you can see with the visible eye.

6. With your rubber stamps press your individual stamp letters

firmly into the "egg".

7. Pierce a tiny hole to let out any trapper air inside.

8. Fold a thicker piece of cardstock in a accordian style

(I didn't have any carstock on me so I used some big postcard

I got in the mail...it worked)

9. Place the eggs in the folds so the bottom part doesn't touch the bottom. This is to prevent a flat part on the "egg"

10. Place the eggs that are in the folded card stock on top of a cookie sheet and bake in oven for 15 minutes

11. Allow the eggs to cool.

12. Take your paint brush and acryclic paint and flick the paint onto the egg

(do this in an area that you can make a mess).

13. Take your paint brush and fill in the letters. Take your paper towel add a little bit of water. Wipe any excess paint on the letters.

14. Let it all dry and enjoy!

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mine turned out to be more like ROCKS then eggs. HA HA! I don't really care now because

I have been getting alot of compliments on them.

Check out the awesome pics we took with them :-) Such a great prop!

All photos courtsey of Traci Robinson Photography

So many projects to tackle!!

2011-04-15T00:55:00.000-07:00

So after creating Jett's nursery I noticed Mike and I really enjoy DIY. We get so much satisfaction in creating something ourselves and letting creative juices flowing. ;-) So I decided I am going to DIY more for several reasons....
(1) Saves $$$ to DIY then buying things retail
(2) I love to customize just for us
(3) I just want to do it!

Some of the projects (mostly baby related) I plan to tackle before I go back to work are.... (this list seems long!)

Creating some of these baby legs/leg warmers for Jett.

I don'know how to sew or have a sewing machine, but I think I will take some classes from my mother in law on how to sew (she is super talented she created Jett's crib bedding). I think this will be the perfect project to start learning. Plus I think of how much I can DIY when I know how to sew!

Making myself a nursing cover

These nursing covers that are sold in the stores are ridiculously expensive. I figure I can make one at more than 1/2 their cost or less! Plus mine is going to look purrrty! :-)

Travel Diaper/Wipe Case

Not this exact design, but I want to cover my travel wipe case with something a little bit cuter than the lovely white plastic Huggies design it currently has.

Clothes Dividers

This is a project that I wanted to tackle before the baby got here um....that just didn't happen. I was too picky looking for the right style paper, but now I just need to do it. I really need a easier way to divide these clothes up in his closet. It's annoying to keep looking at the tags.

_________________________________________________________________________________

I will start tackling these projects soon and posting about them since my leave is going to be up soon or I will just do them in the middle of the night like I am blogging right now at 2:55 am. Ha! Gotta love those middle of the night feedings with the baby and unable to go back to sleep.

Jett's Nursery... Renovation

2011-03-24T16:32:00.000-07:00

We started to work on the room slowly, but surely in September. We first had a garage sale to get everything out of the room. It was basically used as a storage room and it was packed from floor to ceiling. Luckily we were able to sell the majority of the items. Thank goodness!!

The Garage Sale!!

Second was tearing everything out of the room. This was the fun part! Pulled out all the carpet, everything out of the closet (shelving, poles, racks, etc.).

The dogs even wanted to help out! ;-)

Third Mike worked on some great solid pieces of furniture (dresser, tv armoire & crib) to refinish. This took a while since it was sooooo time consuming. We wanted black with some antiquing. Mike of course added his awesome creativity to it all with some stencil work and lining the interiors with some awesome mod podge work. It was worth every minute. He did an INCREDIBLE job! The pieces look soooo awesome!

My Dresser Growing Up Before.....

After without hardware....

Inside the dresser we Mod Podge this wrapping paper,
we bought at Michaels, as the lining turned out awesome!

Final Product...UH-MAAZING

Mike's T.V Armoire Before.....

And After.......!
(Mike painted on the stencils and added some cool hardware from Hobby Lobby)

Inside Mike lined it with fabric (mod podge) and made shelves for storage. We plan on getting baskets to store books and such!

We were blessed to have Mike's sister and our friend give us each a crib. We loved the look of my friend's crib that was originally white with some gray antiquing, but some of the crib slats were missing and I wasn't comfortable using a crib with missing slats. So we decided to use Mike's sister's crib it was a simple and sturdy design, but it was drop side crib. Mike was just about to be finished painting the crib when the story hit that drop side cribs were banned. With this news we had decide what we wanted to do. Buy a crib or figure out a way to make it a fixed crib. Since we orginally liked the other design we decided to combine both my friend's crib (using the side ends) and Mike's sister crib (using the slats) to create the crib that we wanted. Mike also created from scratch four sides that look like as if they were part of the crib. My husband is soooo talented!! By far this is my favorite piece. It turned out incredible!!!

I don't have any before and after pictures, but I have pictures of the process. Just remember the 2 ends were white and antiqued with a black. The slats were a oak.

And After!! Pictures don't do it justice!!!

The bottom pieces were added on.

Mike created this sides out of scratch.

They look like they belong there!

Then the painting process began!

Here are the before pictures of the room.

I wanted one darker gray wall and the rests of the walls a light gray. My original inspiration was this pic below.

We decided on gray for the walls It is just the perfect color for us. So chic and clean. We love the bead board and chair rail idea on the wall, but we decided to do it only up against our accent wall. I think eventually we will have them on all 4 walls. We decided against carpet. One carpet is just gross with all the stuff it collects in it and two we have 3 dogs that shed so carpet is not a fun thing when you have 3 dogs .

The room after Mike refinished the furniture right before he started to paint the walls.

Touching up some of the walls! He has the pose down!

Installing the floors. He did this in one night!!

Now for the long awaited after pics!!!

Presto....the room! One of our 3 dogs Maverick wanted to pose.

He loves this room!

Lucy tried to get in the pic too!

The awesome closet that Mike built!

We will be getting baskets that match for storage! So Awesome!

The awesome bedding made by my very talented mother in law. The decal is a custom decal made through www.dalidecals.com

(I highly recommend them....very affordable)

We purchased the fabric from www.fabrics.com

the best prices anywhere!

And the precious diaper hanger she made!!

A diaper hanger is a MUST!!!

There are only a few more things we need (baskets for closet, cornice window treatment, area rug) to do to complete Jett's cool room! I am super proud of this room and my hubby who made this happen. Besides our beautiful gem, Jett, this room is Mike's best work yet! He has created the vision I had as a perfect nursery into reality. Thank you....to my AWESOME AWESOME husband!! I love you!

Mama Martin's Maternity Session

2011-02-27T09:19:00.000-08:00

I had posted this on my pregnancy blog, but wanted to post on my regular blog about this session!

We had our maternity session taken when I was 36 weeks. I wanted to get my belly as big as possible to take these pictures. I didn't want the typical studio maternity session showing off bare belly. I wanted something that looked like a piece of art that we can hang around the house. Plus I was super self conscious of showing my bare belly. I just did not like showing off the line that was going down the middle of my belly. So I told my awesome wedding photographer, Montage Photographers, my vision on what I was looking for and he totally delivered!!

The weather was not very ideal. There wasn't any sun light and mainly it just very cloudy. Luckily there was no rain. Thank goodness! I really want to take pictures in an open field. We found a development behind Old Town Spring. There were some gorgeous houses back there, but there were also alot of open fields that we took advantage of.

I have to say this maternity session was a major work out for me. Climbing up sand hills and over overgrown brush was so much work. I was so sore and worn out, but it was totally worth it!! Here are some pictures from my photographers blog. The rest of the session you can see here!!

I had to get at least one picture with our furbabies.

This love seat is an antique. It was my great great grandfather's. I believe this was made in the mid 1800's

The Big Day Dress Shots!

2011-01-23T18:21:00.000-08:00

I have always been a huge fan of wedding photography. I constantly look through blogs....so fun. One of my favorite photo ops is the famous shot THE dress before the bride slips it on. Here are some of mine, but I have seen some incredible ones. Here are some of my favorites I have seen!

Montage Photographers


This is my dress :-)

Ashley Rose Photography

I know this is not a hanging dress shot,
but I love the detail in the dress!

Studio 563

Brandon Kidd Photography

I love the way the light captures this dress!

Adam Nyholt

Not a big dress shot, but I love it!

Sloan Photographers

Paperdolls Photography

Priscila Valentina

What's It Going To Bee?" Baby Shower/Gender Reveal!

2011-01-17T16:40:00.000-08:00

We had our baby shower a couple weekends ago and I had posted about it on my pregnancy blog, but I wanted to post it on here as well!

The shower was MARVELOUS!!! I could have never ever dreamed of anything better! It was just PERFECT!! My hostesses: Becca, Misti, Wendy & Kim did an incredible job. Every little detail they put in came all together beautifully!
Now for the back story on why we went with a bee theme and doing the gender reveal (original post about finding out what we were having). At 14 weeks I had to go in and get a detailed ultra sound. When we were there the ultrasound knew right away the gender of our baby. Mike and I at that point (well really Mike) were not going to find out the gender of the baby. So when the tech asked us Mike immediately yelled NO and I blurted YES! Mike was not a happy camper. I was begging him for us to find out. He kept saying no no no. So the tech did not tell us in the room or printed a ultrasound anywhere near where you can tell what the gender was. When the tech left I was telling Mike we could keep the gender a secret between us an no one else. He still was not wanting us to know. I was upset, but I knew why he had said no. So I was mentally ready to leave the doctor's office with out knowing. I gave it a shot of trying to convince him. As we were walking out the room Mike told the tech, "Just tell her." The tech was shocked, "Are you sure?" and I said the same. So she told us right then. I was in shock! Mike was still not happy just because we found out. He needed some time to digest what happened. I basically ruined his dream to hear what our child was for the first time at birth. I felt really bad, but I really wanted to know. Eventually he came around and was very excited.

After that I was still unsure of the gender since we found out so early. I wanted absolute confirmation at 20 weeks. So I wasn't running off buying gender relate items. Mike and I decided since I ruined his surprise that we would keep the gender a secret a between us for a while. So we could enjoy that moment of knowing between us. Then an idea popped into my head (of course). What if we revealed the gender at the baby shower. Then it would give us time to return anything that people had purchased for us that was gender related. Plus it would be so much fun to reveal the gender in front of friends and family.

It was tough keeping the secret for 20 weeks (5 months). People kept trying to trick us, but we stood our ground and didn't give in. Whenever we talked about the baby we say "it" or "baby" we never slipped about the gender. We only talked about him/her between us. It was fun seeing people trying to guess what the baby was. When people say..."Oh I think it is a..." Mike would always ask them their philospohy and wives tale of why they thought it was a boy or girl. It was interesting to hear. Most people were basing on how I was carrying the baby.

Some people didn't like our decision of keeping a secret. We would always hear,"Well how will you be able to decorate the nursery?" or "How am I suppose to buy you a gift if I don't know?" It was always "How are you going to do this & that by not telling anyone..." Number One I already wanted a gender neutral nursery: gray, white, yellow & black. Number Two I registered for everything gender neutral so mainly white, which was totally fine! Number Three we will manage. When Mike and I were babies they couldn't find out the gender anyways and they managed. It is just a little harder now since most people find out and everything is gender related.

For the baby shower we went with the theme "What's It Going To Bee?" everything was bumble bee theme, black and yellow. Our plans was to reveal the gender by having our baker dye the inside of the cake the color of what the gender was (blue/pink). Then Mike and I will cut the cake to reveal what we were having! The girls who hostessed the shower took this vision I had and just made it a dream come true!!

Prior to the cake cutting. We had the room split. Whoever thought we were having a boy on one side and girl on the other. When then proceeded to cut the cake. Of course Mike had to tease everyone a little. Well we finally cut the cake and it is a.......scroll down to find out!!

I love all the little details! The little yellow bees were cake balls!! So yummy!

The Bumble Diaper Cake!

The cake that would reveal it all!!

Loved the flowers and the little glass bumble bees as accents.

Aww....he matched with the theme!

Mother in Law, Me and Mike's Grandmother!

My incredible hostesses!!! They are awesome!

Me and my sister!!

About to cut the cake!!

It's a BOY!

The best reaction EVER!!

The proof!

The onesie project!

Such a cool idea!! They all turned out soo cute!

We were blessed with so many gifts! We are so lucky to have such great people in our lives that love us!

I was overwhelmed with emotion. Everything was just beautiful!

2010: A Year to Remember

2011-01-02T17:54:00.000-08:00

2010 has come and gone so quickly!! I feel like so much has happened with our lives in just a short period of time. Here are some of the events that I will remember most from 2010.

2010 Memories....

1. We bought a Truck! We traded in Mike's VW Passat for a 2008 Toyota Tundra! We love it!

2. Diagnosed with PCOS after 6 months of trying in March. We were relieved to know what was going on with me and that there was a solution. We took charge!

Photo capturing us taking charge of our future. LOL

3. Mike got ride in his 1st MS150. So proud of him!

4. DIY Master Bedroom Makeover!

5. OMG We are Pregnant!!

6. 1 Year Anniversairy of Wedded Bliss!

2011 will bring lots of excited, change and joy into our lives. Can't wait for it!!

2010 Christmas Card!!

2010-12-20T09:02:00.000-08:00

We are known to have whimiscal Christmas cards that include our dogs every year. It is a definetly a challenge every year to create such creative Christmas cards with the dogs. It is very difficult to get a good picture of them all at the same time and no one to help us take the picture. It is all done between my husband and I....ha! and there is alot of frustration & laughter in the air when we do take the pictures, but it is so worth it. We try to have fun while doing it. We get such great compliments from friends and family on them. So it is worth the trouble!

This year we were trying to figure out a way to top last year's card. That one definetly creative! One of my favorites since we have been doing the cards. How could we top last years???? Well with the bump it is a little difficult to get the dogs all together with just Mike and I. So Mike had the great idea for us to take a picture of each individual dog laying on their back and then us laying on our back on the grass. Then I would use my photoshop magic and place each of us around in a circle.

Let me tell you photoshopping this project was not easy. Took me a while since I am not a pro at photoshop, but I think it turned out great! Minus Bentley's picture. I am a little disappointed that his lightining was off for him, but overall I think it turned out great! Of course we had to add a little something about our special delivery in Feb. :-)

Enjoy (bottom row: Bentley, Maverick & Lucy)!!!

Fall Holidays!

2010-12-02T17:28:00.000-08:00

Wow... where did the time go? I love the Fall because that means it is the Holiday season! I love the Holidays because there is always some type of gathering with family and friends. It is fun to see all the decor with each holiday. We haven't really participated in the decor for the different holidays like we have done in the past. We have been really busy with preparing for the baby.

First up Halloween...
This seems like it was AGES ago....it was our good friend Ricky's birthday and he had a little Halloween/Birthday Party at his place. I felt like I was pretty limited on what I could dress up as and be approriate. I didn't want to spend a whole lot of $$ on something that I would only wear once. So I decided to be a "Pregnant Soccer Mom." I wore Mike's middle band polo, create some photo buttons of Mike when He played soccer when he was younger & a visor. It was tough squeezing into those capris. They belly band really did save me from buying maternity capris. When I dressed up as this costume years back at work I did go a little all out then with props and brought in a little cooler with Capri Suns and brought snacks. This time I just didn't have the energy to do that.

Mike transformed to my celebrity crush, but it in a totally twisted way. He was Justin Timberlake's character on SNL that was in the video "D... in the Box." It was actually pretty funny. I went and bought him some cheap cheesy sunglasses, a gold gawdy chain and hoop earring. He wore one of his suits and a black t-shirt under. The prop that put it all together was the "D.... in the Box." We had an old Christmas gift box he took out and zipped tied them around his belt. He even went far enough to make a paper mache "junk." It was pretty disgusting, but I guess whatever you have to do to make the costume complete. Mike is an over achiever and really wanted to win this costume and he thought making this paper mache "junk" would win it all.

Here are some pics from the night...

Pregnant Soccer Mom and "D" in the Box

With the birthday boy/wrestler

Having too much fun with this box

Mike and the "OBGYN" aka Kelly

He did such a good job. Looked just like

Justin Timberlake's character.

That is a mix of my mascara and stubble on his face. Too funny!

Winner of the costume contest....Mike!

Prize...Strawberry Boone's & some Italian sausage!

This is the PG version of this photo.

I needed to photoshop the "junk"

Now for Thanksgiving....
This was the first year since Mike and I have been a couple that he didn't go all out for Thanksgiving. Reason 1 we are watching less TV (Food Network) so he was not churning up creative ideas. Reason 2 he didn't feel like cooking...he was tired. LOL. So we decided to make just some desserts and an appetizer. I made by request spinach artichoke dip & puppy chow (chex mix with peanut butter chocolate & covered in powdered sugar). I also made some yummy oreo truffles....sooo good and rich! Mike made a delicious 3 layered carrot cake all from scratch. We took our goodies to my mother in laws and we had a delicious lunch/dinner. We played games and stayed until around 10. We had to get home to our furbabies and get ready for our camping trip the next day! The weather during the day was in the 80s then dropped to the 40s that evening. Talk about Texas weather having PMS!

The Martin clan...me 6.5 months preggo!

The yummy Thanksgiving Feast!!

With the Martin family we have always talked about going as a family somewhere. So I thought of the bright idea of going on a little camping trip up the day after Thanksgiving to Huntsville State Park, which is 45 minutes North of Houston. It is sounded like a great idea at the time until it went from the 80s down to the 30s. It was BRRRR rabbit cold!!! And we were camping with tents. They had sold out months prior that weekend at the park and the only thing available were tent sites only. We still had a great time in the freezing cold. We built a warm campfire and had lots of food, smores, hot dogs & etc. The kids and the guys try to fish, but the fish just wouldn't bite at the pier. It was a great time till we had to go to bed in the cold. We did good though and got through the night. We were told the next day it got to be 26 degrees. BRRRRRR. Next time we definitely need to take the camper and go when the weather is a little warmer. Maybe it will be a holiday tradition. :-) Minus the cold weather.

DIY: Diaper Bassinet & Gift Basket

2010-10-25T20:19:00.000-07:00

This is not my typical post on here, but since it was DIY and I am super proud of it. Here it is! This is a gift basket I was putting together for the shower we are throwing for my boss. I bought a pack of diapers with an idea just to bundle them all up and tie them in a cute bow. Then I saw some cute things online of diaper creations. So I decided to take a stab at it.

With alot of frustration at first on how to construct the top of the bassinet. With the help of Mike and his carpenter skills I was able to make it! Check it out! What do you think? My first diaper anything!

My inspiration....I wish I can make cute bows like this.

Okay here is my creation!!

I need to still add the wheels

I thought the bib add a cute touch to it.

I am pretty excited how it turned out!

Celebrity Wedding: Chelsea Clinton & Mark Mezvinsky

2010-10-11T16:28:00.000-07:00

From all the summer weddings this year. By far this was one my favorites. The main reason is because the beautiful transformation of Chelsea Clinton. We all remember her in the 90s as being the biggest fashionista. Well I have to say her wedding to Mark must have brought the class and elegance out of her. I wished there were more photos available to see the details of the actual reception, but I am pretty excited about her ceremony photos that came available.

I practically had tears in my eyes when I saw this photo of her and former President Clinton walking his little girl down the aisle. It never fails for me to cry at this part of the wedding

and the Father daughter dance.

This is also when I fell in love with her GORGEOUS Vera Wang gown.

It was just breathtaking! Fitting her body so well!
I love the elegant flow of the strapless silk organza dress.
Not gawdy at all!! Done with a touch of class.

They look so happy....especially Chelsea! Such a great and genuine shot!

You notice simple jewelry on Chelsea! I love that. Just earrings and a bracelet....PERFECTION!

The bride just shined herself with out that extra bling. I really believe that going bare on a strapless dress is ideal and classic!

I love the detail in the embellished belt. Gorgeous! Just that little extra sparkle.

*All photos above can be found on www.people.com

1st & Last Garage Sale!

2010-10-01T17:10:00.000-07:00

So I had the "ingenious" idea to host a garage sale at our home. I really think it was my pregnant brain who thought this idea up because the normal me would have not even consider it.

What prompted this thought was....the room where we will have the nursery was full of Mike's grandmother's furniture. We were going to move it all out to a storage area in the back, but we knew once it got back there it would never been seen or get any use out of it. So the thought of a garage sale popped into my mind. It would help us from moving it to storage. So thought also was I had some stuff to sell from college and I also had asked the rest of the family if they had stuff to sell and they did. So why not a garage sale? It only made sense. ha ha! Some great idea at the time right? I kept telling myself it was to clear out the room, but boooooooooy I had no idea how much work went into putting a garage sale together and then working one.

Thank goodness my mother in law, sister in law and husband were there to help. I definitely could have not done this by myself pregnant or not! They all were Saviors when it was all said and done.

Our garage was packed to the gills with furniture, boxes and such. I even cleared most of it out the weekend before, but it was still full. We had a small little path so we can walk through and a lot of the times the dogs were trapped and couldn't walk out themselves. They are typically the best to maneuver their way around, but since it was so crowded it was very difficult for us all. We even had furniture in the house to take out, but we couldn't there was just not enough room for it all. I couldn't wait too get it all out it was overwhelming me.

Mike and the Martin nephews (Brayden & Camden) put up this HUGE tent on Friday night so we can put some stuff underneath the tent that evening since there wasn't any room in the garage. And we didn't know if it would rain that evening or the next morning. Plus it was a perfect place to have alot of the items for the sale since it was shaded. I am so glad that thing was up. It was perfect for what we wanted to accomplished.

We were ready for Saturday. I had put an ad in the Chronicle and made signs that Mike put out on the streets Friday. We started our day at 6 am for a 8 am garage sale. We pulled everything out of the garage up to the 8 am mark and we were still not done. We still needed to unpack the boxes. Slowly, but surely we were able to do that within the next couple of hours.

Once we opened our gate it was game on. Our yard was flooded with people. I think the most at one time we had about 45 people there. I think in total the number of people that came through our garage sale was at least 200 people.

My mother in law was definitely working it. She had her fanny pack and was wheeling and dealing the hot September heat. She was AWESOME!!

This was around the middle the afternoon.

A lot of the larger items had been sold at this point, but still had a ton of stuff left!

The Martin kids and Jada had a lemonade stand. So cute!! Wished they made some more, but I had fun with them there. So did our furbabies.

This is Avery standing in front of their lemonade stand set up (.50 cents for each cup).

We wrapped up around 2ish. Loaded whatever was left in our trucks and donated them. This would be my 1st and LAST garage sale. The amount of work & time does not equal the amount of $$ you make out of it. So not worth it. But like I said it was our main goal to just clear out the room that would be the nursery so that was done and this amount is just PRICELESS. We can now start on our nursery!!

Our DIY home renovation plans!

2010-09-20T16:34:00.000-07:00

I probably should be posting this on my pregnancy blog, but I am have been really obsessed with renovating everything not just the baby's room. So I thought it was appropriate to put on here. :-p

We plan on redoing our floors in the main part of our home (kitchen, living room, main hallway) in preparation of our little rugrat. We are pulling linoleum, tile, & carpet! Almost everything is pulled up except the rubber tiles. Mike will be doing that since we have to melt the tile up and not scraping it up because of the chance of asbestos in the tile. We plan on staining the concrete! I fell in love with this look when I saw it at one of my good girlfriend's great room. It was amazing! I couldn't believe that the floor was concrete it was just gorgeous. Below is a pic of it from my bridal shower. You can barely see it, but you can tell it was top notch awesomeness! It looks waaaay better in person. Ever since I saw it I always noticed it more in other places. Many upscale restaurants do this and looks awesome! Very clean and chic.

We decided to stain the concrete for several reasons. (1) It looks great (2) very durable (3) easy to maintain (4) the most important one of all...very expensive to do. It will probably cost us to cover 800 sq.ft less than $200. Which is incredible considering how much area we are covering. Of course the stain turns out differently in different areas depending on the stain takes to that part of the concrete because of the age of the concrete or what it has been exposed too.

This is the color stain we really liked....Tuscan Stone. We are going to get the Behr Concrete Dye Kit from Home Depot. Includes base color, accent color, wet look sealer, cleaner/etcher, & sprayer for $89! Can't beat that!

Photo from: http://sundekofmiami.com/Stainedconcrete.aspx

Photo from: http://www.metrocrete.com/2008/08/21/cohills-stained-concrete-flooring-video/

These aren't the professional pictures that I got in a little booklet from home depot, but you can get the point of awesome it will look! I can't wait till we start.

Any new renovation things going on in your home?

Boo...I am terrible

2010-09-17T19:41:00.000-07:00

The last time I made a post on my regular blog was a month ago when I announced we were preggo! I know....Iam sooooo terrible. I have been keeping up more with my pregnancy blog since I am trying to turn that into a pregnancy journal book after the baby is born. I just have some major blog "block" on what to post here. What do I blog about???? I don't want to blog about baby stuff since I have a separate blog about that. I will figure something out this weekend. I think my creative juices will be coming in once I have a good nights rest. :-)

Yes, we are going to have....

2010-08-16T12:53:00.000-07:00

A baby! Baby Martin estimate arrival is February 23, 2011! We are sooo excited about our new little addition! Most of our family and really close friends new about our exciting news! However, we annouced it on facebook last week after our 12 week check up. So I guess if it's on FB that means it is official now! LOL. Gotta love social networking.

Since we found out about our pregnancy I have been keeping up a separate blog just about the pregnancy...sort of like a pregnancy journal, but documenting it all online. It just seemed so much easier then writing all the stuff down. After the baby arrives (when I have time...I know baby will keep me busy) I am going to transfer that blog into a pregnancy journal book for the baby. I would like to do this for each pregnancy if I can!

Below is the link to that blog if anyone is interested in my pregnancy journey (it's not that interesting, but it has some pics. hehe)

New Blog: "10 Little Toes"

Our 1 year Anniversary Weekend!

2010-08-11T14:35:00.000-07:00

So all the plans that I had for our 1 year anniversary did not go as I planned, but it still ended up being a great weekend. Better than I ever planned or expected!

Originally I didn't know if Mike had anything planned for our big 1 year! I am so naive....of course he does. He always does! He is so thoughtful for special occasions and goes well and beyond then he needs too! Anyways....I had plans to get a couple's massage on Saturday and then Sunday at Mark's. This restaurant was voted the most romantic places to dine in Houston. It use to be a church converted into a restaurant. So I thought it would be fun to experience a new place. I also had our baker recreate a smaller version of Mike's groom's cake. He had talked about it soo much since the wedding I had to get it made again.

Like I said things didn't go as planned. Our appointment for the massages was at 2. Mike had gone to get a hair cut in the morning and when he came home I found a big box with a red bow for me. I opened the card and it said, "Would you join me for dinner. Where the scene of the crime began? Check Yes or No." I reluctantly said yes then proceed to ask if we going to Christophers in College Station. He said yes and to start packing. I was so surprised and I asked if were staying there and he said, "Yes, on Southwest Parkway" (the street where we met). I was shocked I asked about the dogs who was going to take care of them. He said he had it all taken care of. Their Aunt Becca was going to come over to let them out that evening and in the morning. (Side Note: Christophers is where we had our first nice date as a couple.)

I then opened the box after asking a million and one questions. In the box were 2 beautiful dresses for me to wear that evening. He did soooo good. They were gorgeous and fit just right! I was so excited! I loved going back to College Station. So many great memories there!

We leave to go to the couples massage. Things were taking a while. And I ended up having to cancel my massage because the prenatal therapists was nervous to give me a massage even though the owner said it would be okay at 11-1/2 weeks. Typically they do it at 12, but I was so close it would be fine. However, therapist didn't want to touch me until I was 13. They said I could still proceed, but I didn't want too if the therapist was nervous. How was I suppose to enjoy my massage. So I just cancelled and Mike had one by himself. So much for a romantic couples massage.

We then head to good ole College Station....did I mention how much I LOVE that city! So clean, people are sooo nice, pretty, etc! We got there around 5 ish took a quick nap then got ready for our dinner at Christophers. The dinner was just as I remembered it 5 years go, but better! It was so great enjoying that time together. In such a beautiful setting and reminiscing of the great times we had together in College Station. After our excellent meal we drove around the whole city going down memory lane. Where we had both lived. Some of our favorite places to eat. It was great! All I know is that College Station is growing like crazy! So great for that city!

The next day we went Messina Hof winery and took a tour. We have both never been there. It was really a neat learning experience about the vineyard and about wine. Too bad I couldn't drink, but that's okay. I learned a whole lot. After the tour we had lunch at their restaurant. Mike said it was awesome! I didn't have much because my stomach was upset from the fermentation room from the tour.

When went to the mall so I can find some Aggie baby stuff. Since we are so limited here in Houston. I found the cutest little newborn beanie, "Born to be an Aggie." I can't wait to use that for the newborn pictures! There was so much more we can buy, but I had to hold back. I will be be back in the great CS again and get some more then!

Us at Christophers (1 year wedding anniversary!)

where we had our 1st date 5 years prior!

This dessert was so good....it oozed of chocolate.

Where we stayed for the evening on "Southwest Pkwy"

Our lunch at Messina Hof. Just beautiful!

Our view during lunch part of the vineyard at Messina Hof.

Mike enjoying the "G" wine he learned about out on our tour.

Our cake a year later. Just as good. Yum!

I looked alot better during this pose the year before.

Groom's cake semi-recreated. Still sooo good!

Wow...It's been a year!

2010-08-09T17:57:00.000-07:00

I am one day late posting this just because we had sooo much fun this weekend on our 1 year anniversary!!!

A year ago (yesterday) I married the most extraordinary man that I have ever met. I never thought the day would come that would married this man. I was lucky enough to have my fairy tale come true meeting the man I have always wanted to marry since I was a little girl. I can not believe it has been a year since we have been married. A lot has happened this past year as a married couple and it has been a great journey so far. A lot of people ask me all the time if it feels any different from when we were just dating. I can honestly say yes! It is alot more fun sharing your life with someone you know that is in it all the way with you when in comes to this journey we call life. Mike and I honestly can say have a great time together!

I can't wait to celebrate many more years with my love.

Below are some of my favorite pictures from our BIG DAY!

He is just so handsome! He wore the cufflinks I had given him years ago!

Our First Look! Best thing to do!

Guess: Celebrity Engagement Rings!

2010-07-24T09:10:00.000-07:00

I love looking at celebrity engagements rings. They are sooooo eye candy! Some of course I like more than others! Here are some recent celebrity e-rings. Can you guess whose it is???? Have fun!

1. She is no more "Ugly Betty".....

2. Is she still Paris Hilton's BFF???

3. Oh the good ole Lizzy Maguire days....

4. This American Idol crooned her way to the top!

5. Did she really kiss a girl and like it?

6. I love her fiance Jim Halpert in the office!

She is also great as the witty assistant in Devil Wears Prada.

7. This Latina was singing her way through Nine.

8. How can you not love her? She was a Fantastic Four!

9. She can hit notes like no one other and loves her butterflies!

10. This former Grey's doctor and Knocked Up star!

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Answers!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

1. America Ferrera

2. Nicole Richie

3. Hilary Duff

4. Carrie Underwood

5. Katy Perry

6. Emily Blunt

7. Penelope Cruz

8. Jessica Alba

9. Mariah Carey

10. Katherine Heigl

Whose your favorite celebrity engagement ring???

Images for e-rings #1-7 http://www.people.com%20/

Images for e-ring #8-9: http://www.theinsider.com/

Image for e-ring #10: Forum http://www.diamondring.com/

Wee Bit about me!

2010-07-22T18:31:00.000-07:00

I saw this on the the blog Just the 2 of us....and a cat. I thought it would be fun to do!

1.If you could go on a road trip anywhere with one person, dead or alive, who would it be and where would you go? The road trip would be with my husband, Mike. We have fun making pit stops somewhere and trying new foods. Where would we go??? Hmmmmm......It would be awesome to go to Colorado or Florida. Somewhere with some beautiful scenery on the way.

2.If you were stranded on a desert island, which one person would you bring with you? Mike with some duct tape. Ha ha. J/K.

3.What's your earliest memory? I was 2 years old being dropped off at montessori school for the very first time by my mom. I just remember screaming and crying thinking why did my mom leave me here by myself. I was miserable!

4.What's the best advice you've ever received? Everything happens for a reason. (My daddy)

5.If you could have an endless supply of food, what would you get?
Korean food & cupcakes. Yum!!

6.Would you rather be a famous musician or a famous actor? Musician it would be fun to be on stage. I don't think I can act differently than I am. I suck at fooling people I can do something.

7.If you could be a star athlete in any sport, which would you choose? Gymnast for the USA Olympics. It is incredible what those gymnast can do with their body.

8.If you were offered the job of u.s. president, would you take it? Sure. I would have the vice president do everything. While I go on vacation and eat the best foods in the world. LOL. Seriously though....NO WAY!

9.Would you rather have the ability to fly or the ability to breathe underwater? Fly! So much cooler!

10.What music are you listening to today? Elvis...Little Less Conversation. Mike has his work out playlist going. He has a great mix!

That was fun!

Semi-DIY: Dog Beds!!

2010-07-14T11:45:00.000-07:00

I have been really slacking on blogging lately. I need to get better. I was doing so well for a couple of weeks then everything just started to go crazy!!! We just have a lot going on in our lives right now. My parents came into town from Seattle this past weekend. So preparing for their visit was crazy.

With all the craziness a month ago I decided I wanted to get some dog beds made for our 3 furbabies. I never found anything I liked online or in the stores. And if I did they were at least $70 each (this was the cheapest) for large dog beds. This amount is INSANE when you have 3 dogs! It adds up quick! I wanted something that was soft because all 3 dogs LOVE soft cushy things. They were so uncomfortable sleeping on the laminate wood floors that they would go into our living room and sleep on the couches or on a pile of our clothes in the laundry. Such a sad sight to see.

So I went to the fabric store and found some super cute VERY SOFT zebra print (pink & blue) fabric for the top end and the bottom some cheap canvas (pink & blue) for the bottom end. We were going to just getting stuffing, but Mike decided to get our old king size memory foam mattress and cut it up so our dogs would have memory foam beds. The boys have a larger beds compared to Lucy, but hers is still pretty big. (Side Note: Probably think we are insane for cutting that memory foam bed, but it was so gross. We would never use that bed again. BLAH!)

Then I took the fabrics and memory foam to my very talented mother in law. And she created the MOST darling beds!! The first night the furbabies all 3 slept through the night with out waking me up! It was awesome! THEY LOVE LOVE them!!

My overall cost for 3 custom large memory foam dogs beds: $70
Retail cost for 3 large memory foam dog beds: $99/each ($297) ........and not as cute!
Saved: So much!!!! Priceless!!!

Lucy loving her new bed! She is sooo freaking cute!!

Maverick enjoying the comfy bed

Bentley lounging on his ultra plush bed. Grammy made him.

Monday Etsy Find: Ring Bowls

2010-06-21T19:10:00.000-07:00

Ring bowls are becoming very popular replacing the traditional ring bearer pillow. I had my two ringer bearers carry a bowl each. One bowl said "I DO" and the other "ME TOO" with our wedding date 08.08.09.

I hate to say this because I love the idea of the ring bowls, but I think my ring bowls were poorly made because when I received them in the mail one was cracked on the back. I had the seller send me a new one of the one that cracked again. Then right before ceremony the other bowl cracked on the back. I was so upset. The seller might be better now on the quality, but I wouldn't use this seller again.

I love love the concept of the ring bowls. Because you can actually keep and use it. Unlike the ring pillow. Really...what are you going to do with that? A little nap pillow, a foot rest, baby pillow?? No clue. Just one more thing you throw away after the wedding. At least with the bowl you can use it to put your rings on when you are not wearing them or use them as an ornament. For me my dogs got a hold of 2 of the bowls and ate them. Yes you heard me right ATE THEM! I was soooo mad at them. Luckily I had one bowl left (it was cracked on the back), but at least I have one. Now it is in a safe spot from the heathens (I still love them). I think I will get some more made from a different seller to have as personal keepsake.

Here are some other great ring bowls from some Etsy sellers. NOTE: I did not include my seller because I wouldn't send you to such poor quality. However, I believe these are sellers who have good quality bowls.

Seller: Paloma's Nest

Seller: Wise Impressions

Seller: Elm Studios

Our DIY Bedroom Makeover

2010-06-20T07:11:00.000-07:00

My husband and I live in an older home (like 45 years old), which use to be his grandmother's. Back when it was built in the 50's it was built with the best materials of it's time. The house had the most modern features and upgrades and the great decade could offer like: pocket doors, push button switches, 3 socket plugs, birch wood paneling, open floor plan, etc. The house is in great shape for being the age that it is, but she definitely needs a little face lift and touch of some modern flare.

We started a few years ago to pull up the carpet in the living room & the main hallway. The carpet was at least 30 years old and needed to be taken up. Recently Mike read an article in a magazine (I think Men's Health) about all the bacteria and germs that live in your carpet. He was so disgusted by it the next day when I came home from work the carpet was ripped up in our bedroom. For a few weeks our bedroom floor was a slab of concrete. (BTW carpet is so disgusting when you pull it up. All the dirt & stains that you are unable to vacuum & clean are under there and it is just NASTY....gives me chills just thinking about it. GROSS! Ugh!)

Renovating is sooooo expensive. Luckily my husband enjoys doing a lot of projects himself that help us save money and I have to say they turn out great! He has a great gift when it comes to carpentry and design. Anyways on to the DIY story.... It all started because one of my good friend's was replacing their wood laminates with real hardwoods and offered to give her laminates to us and some that were new in the box for FREE. Could NOT pass that up! Great deal and so gracious of my friend and her husband. Then we decided if we are redoing the floors then we should paint our bedroom to a more tranquil & relaxing color. Thus, our 3 week project began!

During the 3 weeks we temporarily had our bed in our living room with out any frames. My husband said he got a better night sleep with out the frame so he decided he was going to build our own custom made bed! I was thinking....he is nuts! He doesn't know how to do that! Well I was more than pleasantly surprised. He built the most beautiful bed I have ever seen. I was soooo proud! It is sooo awesome! It is solid pine that he stained a dark brown. The bed is really high up so our dogs can not jump and sleep with us anymore (it really sucked before because all 3 slept on my side...yes, 260lbs worth of dog on me). We even made our own upholstery headboard (almost done just need to add more buttons). We bought the fabric, foam & made our own buttons. It looks great!!

Here are before and after pictures of our DIY Master Bedroom renovation.

Before.....

Mike starting to paint the walls after stripping wallpaper, texturing & priming the walls.

Bentley, Maverick, & Lucy really wanted to help out. ha!

Left side of the wall.

Now for the awesome AFTER !!!!!!!!!!!

Ta da!!! When I came home one day from work Mike had completely decorated and set up our room! I was speechless! Mike even framed and mounted the pictures from our wedding himself!

Floral decorations were given us to our friend

who gave us the floors too!!

Facing the doorway. Mike installed a new fan too!

More up to date from what we had before.

Don't those floors look awesome!! So much better than carpet!

My dresser! I love this antique dresser (use to be my dad's).

It fits in really well with our room. LOVE!

My side of the bed.

Mike's side of the bed.

(Sorry for such a grainy pic, I had turned off the flash...bad idea)

Mike's dresser he had refinished. It was original painted black with no hardware or legs. Mike stripped, stained, made his own legs & added hardware. It looks awesome!!

Our curtains...I am not a huge fan because of the color, but we are still working on it. At least we have something!

I know this was seen in a previous picture,

but I had to really get a picture of this one by itself!

Trung gave us an amazing gallery wrap from our TTD session!

It looks incredible in person and MUCH bigger!!

All in all I am extremely pleased with our new room. It is my favorite room and I hate leaving it. It is so cozy and I can't wait to update the rest of the house or have a new home with the similar look of our new master.

Monday Etsy Find: Stamp it!!

2010-06-14T20:47:00.000-07:00

When I was addressing all of our save the dates and invitations I thought my hand was going to FALL OFF! My right hand went into a cramp soooo many times it was terrible! I needed an ice pack at the end! No wonder people hire calligraphist or do labels!

For my though I didn't have the budget to hire a talented calligraphist and I didn't want to do labels because I didn't want people think our STD's and invites were junk mail (I invested months of tears and sweat designing those things I wasn't about to have someone mistake them as trash! NO SIR!). Personally I am more inclined to open mail that my address was handwritten.

Today's etsy find is a custom RUBBER STAMP, which I think will be a HUGE time saver with your paper products (STD, invites, thank you cards, Christmas cards, etc.). Of course you can't stamp individuals addresses, but you can stamp your own address. That will save 1/2 of the hand pain. Plus I think they look really classy and elegant.

They are sooo easy to use! To make it even look more custom you can select a ink rather then black, which could be similar to your colors.

Here are some affordable rubber stamps from some etsy sellers.

Seller Note Trunk....

Seller Loves to Create Stamps....

Seller lettergirl .....

These look like actual handwriting....it would fool me!

Seller Stamp Out Online....

Seller Custom Art Stamps ....

Seller On Your Mark Custom Stamps ....

I am in LOVE with our TTD pics!!

2010-06-08T18:22:00.000-07:00

I had posted a few teasers of our TTD session a couple weeks ago! My incredible photographer posted about 20 more on facebook! I was so excited I had to share! These came out much better than I envisioned initially! We will be seeing the rest this Friday!!! Yay for TTD!!!

I loved climbing into this lifeguard tower. So fun!

I didn't get any cool veil shots on the wedding day
(because I was soo hot from the Texas August heat!).

So I brought it out and I am glad that I did!

I am soooo short!! I need to wear my heels more often

(wearing flip flops in this photo)

I love this one!! Just beautiful!!

*Side note.....my mother in law made my veil.

I love how she did it. Gorgeous!

I swear this is my nerdy laugh.....

This is more like it!

This is classic Mike!! LOL! He is a goof ball!

He is holding me tight so I won't fall down.

These waves were strong!

I love love love this one and the one below.

This is so us! Very playful!

I love love love how these turned out! They were so much fun! I recommend everyone doing them!!

~Liz

Monday Etsy Find: Eye Candy Garters!

2010-06-07T20:08:00.000-07:00

I am going to start posting every Monday a cute Etsy find! I love this website I can waste several hours on this site! So many great things!!

These garters are more eye candy than anything. I wouldn't have paid that much for something I was going to throw away to a single bachelor who wouldn't appreciate such beautiful work (maybe keep it just for me).

This seller is Florrie Mitton Couture

I just love how dainty and feminine these garters are. So beautiful! It is just so vintage! Just stunning! Don't get me wrong I also love the fun ones different colors and themes! So fun! I had an Elvis one (Mike loves Elvis). No where near to these, but I thought it still did the job and looked great! That's all that matters! Right?

Till next time!!

~Liz

Our TTD Teasers!!

2010-05-28T18:45:00.000-07:00

We finally did our Trash the Dress session! We did it this past Sunday morning in Galveston, TX. It is about 45 minutes from Houston. Not the prettiest beach, but hey it works!

We went to the Sea Wall and found a great spot that we thought were great photo opportunities (jetties, lifeguard stands, under buildings, etc.). We didn't want to drive all over the place. I have to say...I was so proud of myself! I did my own hair and makeup (I really wanted to get it done, but time didn't permit.) It turned out great! Then I maneuver somehow into my wedding dress in the back of our truck! Lots and twist and turns to make that happen by myself. My photographer and husband were amazed when they came back to the truck and I was fully dressed and zipped up!

We had a ton of fun! I always wanted to do a couple TTD session and not just session by myself; nothing wrong with doing the TTD by your self. I just wanted to share this experience with my hubby. Also, I think TTD sessions with your husband are soooo romantic and another excuse to have some beautiful portraits as a couple.

Weather was great! Had an awesome breeze and water nice. We did some cool shots with my cathedral veil & blue shoes since I didn't get a whole lot of photos of them at the wedding. Perfect time to get some shots I wanted without the rush of a wedding!!

We didn't get into the water till the very end because once you are wet you are wet and you won't be wanting to do anything else. The water part was the most fun. Trying not to get fully wet was hard, but we managed to get all wet with out trying hard. All I have to say was sand was everywhere once we were done! So uncomfortable, but at least my feet were soft from the sand. :-)

Here are a few teasers of our couple TTD! Enjoy!!

This one if my favorite so far!

Ex Husband TTD!

2010-05-20T16:50:00.000-07:00

Yes, you heard right! I found this story posted on my girlfriend's FB. I thought this was really hilarious! An ex-husband trashing his ex's wife's dress. He wouldn't call it TTD, but 101 uses of the wedding dress. His story is on his site. That his ex wife of 12 years packed up her belongings and left behind her dress. He told her she had left it and she did not want it. He could do whatever the BLEEP he wants to do with it. So he did! Ha! He has created a blog to capture all these 101 uses of the dress. Some are crazy hilarious some are just EWWW! Here are some below. Check out his blog to see more pics, videos & detailed posts.

The blog is called....My Ex Wife's Wedding Dress

Dress Use #16: Jump Roping

Dress Use #15: Sporting Event Banner

Dress Use #14: Pasta Strainer

This is nuts! And their is a pic on his site of his actually eating this pasta!

Dress Use #10: Dog Toy

One of my favorites!! Ha ha!

Dress Use #9: Dental Floss

This is so gross. Ewwww.

Dress Use #5: Scarecrow

Dress Use #4: Grill Cover

The First Look

2010-05-19T19:10:00.000-07:00

When my photographer told me about the First Look. My first thought was..."This man is crazy. I am not breaking tradition. That is so bad luck!" Then of course I changed my mind and I then had to convince Mike that it was the best for our big day!

What exactly is "The First Look"? This is a moment before the wedding ceremony that the bride and groom see each other for the first time in their wedding attire. Traditionally a groom is not suppose to see his bride until she walks down the aisle during the ceremony. However, these days that wedding tradition has been taken to the next level. During "The First Look" not only do you get too see each other before the big day, but gives the couple a few quiet and intimate moments alone before the I do's. With no family, bridal party, friends, etc. Just you and him and the photog :-). This also helps with the anxiety and nerves in my opinion. After the ceremony both the groom and bride are pull all sorts of directions (taking pictures, greeting guests, cutting cake, mingling, dancing, etc.) and rarely able to spend some quiet time together. This is the PERFECT time to do that!

Another great thing about "The First Look" is that your photographer and videographer are able to capture the priceless expression on both your faces when you first see each other. That is the main reason why we did it. We both wanted to capture the looks on our faces when we saw each other and the church where we had our ceremony didn't allow the photographer to be at the front of the church to get the look on my face and the groom's face. So during "The First Look" my photog and his assistant did a great job of capturing both our faces as I approached my groom and his face as I was coming up to him. Priceless!!

I hear a lot from brides, but I don't want "The First Look" to take away from the emotional moment when I walk down the aisle. Believe me it won't! I was more emotional walking down the aisle then I was during "The First Look." Yes, I cried during the "The First Look," but not like I did walking down the aisle. It didn't take away from the moment at all. It made walking down the aisle better!

One more reason why I think "The First Look" is awesome before I show our "First Look" and some others.... After "The First Look" (takes maybe 10 minutes) you and your groom can take some intimate portraits as a couple for 20 minutes afterwards. And I am sooooo glad we did. Some of the best photo ops were before the ceremony of me and my groom. Typically after the ceremony you are mostly taking photos with friends, family and bridal party. And you happen to get a few portraits of you and your new hubby hear and there. But "The First Look" allowed us to get soooo many more. Best decision ever!

So enough babbling....Here is are our "First Look"

My groom waiting for me....it is super hot outside this nice humid August day in Houston! ha!

Here I come.....I wanted to ruuuuuuun up to him, but I thought I would fall and hit my face.

Not so graceful as a bride if I fell. Tee Hee!

He knows I am right behind him. Click click goes my blue heels!

We are relieved! All we could do was laugh and whisper.
Don't know why we whispered, but felt like we needed to since it was such a special moment.

One of my favorite moments captured on film (well digital film)!
I love the look on his face. I didn't want him to let go.

We couldn't stop holding hands."What do I do with my hands!?!"
Also, I stuck this in here just because I love the wave my ring looks here. ha!

He didn't want to kiss, but I wanted too. So we compromised with a peck.

Us chatting after the First Look....talking about what all was going on with him that day. It was fun to hear what all he was going through besides just putting on his tux!

One of the great photos after our First Look.

We used this for our wedding announcement in the newspaper.

All photos above by my INCREDIBLE photographer

Montage Photographers

.............................................................................................
Here are some other great "First Look's"

from various photographer blogs! Enjoy!

Sorry for so many for this photographer, but wow this photographer is an amazing destination photographer! Such great inspiration!

Elizabeth Medina Photography

This is actually my sister in law, Traci!

I love this look Traci makes. Hilarious!

Her great photographer was Clayton Austin
more awesome first look pics below from her photographer.

I love all these vintage looks!

Trash the Dress...

2010-04-24T16:15:00.000-07:00

I love looking for "Trash the Dress" inspiration. I DON'T think it is a MUST to "trash" your gorgeous wedding dress. I think this session gives you a chance to really relax and take some fun photos in neat backgrounds. Unlike during bridal portraits are like your trial run for the wedding so you are being extra careful not to dirty your dress. Also, most people take them in pretty traditional settings like a church, park, venue, etc. This gives you the chance to be FREE & CARELESS! And of course to get all dolled up and an excuse to wear your dress again. Who wouldn't want to do that?

I think I am going to do my TTD on the beach with my husband. I can't wait. I think it will be awesome! Here are some cool inspirations I found on some photographers' blogs. Some our not "officially" TTD sessions, but I think they are great TTD inspirations. Enjoy!

R and J Studios

Randy & April Wedding Photography

Studio Tran Photography

Lisa Mark Photography

Cristey Rowe Photography

I am still Alive!

2010-04-24T14:38:00.000-07:00

It has been over a month since I last blogged. Shame on me! A lot has happened in the past month. I feel personally too much, but hey it's life!

Well one of the major things was my husband was involved in an accident (not his fault). He is fine...thank goodness!! Our poor truck had some major damages to it. The sad thing is we had only had it for less than 2 months then the wreck happen! My husband had to drive a little bitty car for 3 weeks that he could literally lock all the doors from where he was sitting. At least he had something to drive. We got the truck back last week and you don't know how much you miss a truck until it is gone!

Truck the day we got it!

The accident....there are damages to the front, but mostly to the back.

Let see what else happened this month.....the BPMS150. If you are not aware of what it is. It is a 2-day bike ride from Houston to Austin. My husband had been training since January and he finally got to ride for the MS150 the weekend of April 17th. I couldn't be more than proud of him. What a great accomplishment! I had tears in my eyes when he crossed the finish line. The long months of training had paid off. He had done something great! I really admire my husband!

About to cross the finish line in Austin!

Crossing the finish line near the Texas Capitol!

Me and my hubby! I am SUPER proud in this pic!

An update on me personally...my day time job at the newspaper is keeping me pretty busy. It will start to slow down in June (thank goodness!). Earlier this month I had gone back to my modeling agency to get back into the modeling thing. Surprisingly I was told I was old, but I look the same as I did 4 years ago (I guess that is good). Still unsure if I am going to go ahead with it since we are trying to start our family. Having a family is more important to me than anything! So we will see what will happen in another month.

I will start posting things on weddings again (DIY, flowers, trends, inspirations, etc.)

My 1st Cat Walk

2010-03-17T18:21:00.000-07:00

I was very excited when I was asked to participate for the American Cancer Society's Starlight Gala's "Our Cure" Fashion Show. This fashion show was pretty cool because more than 1/2 of the models were cancer survivors. It is amazing to hear their stories on how they overcome such a battle. All of the survivors were around my age or younger. Nuts to know that you can get cancer in your twenties. I was inspired by their strength and positive aspect of life when they come so close to near death. It is just amazing!

This was officially my first fashion show. Of course I was really nervous as I always am with everything I do that is new. I was especially terrified in getting in the swimsuits that I was too wear for the show. I was pastie pastie white! So I went to Darque Tan and got a mystic tan a couple days before. That helped a little when you see the pictures below I am still pale white you should have seen before the tan. MAN I need to get some sun...FAST! I felt sick to my stomach before the show because I was soooo nervous about the swimwear. Once it got down to it the show was a lot of fun. Mike even surprised me by showing up and watching me. I was so excited to see him after the show. What a supportive husband!

2nd outfit change with M2M

2nd swimsuit change

The show was held at the Alden Hotel, which is a very sleek modern hotel located Downtown Houston. Clothes provided by M2M, which I LOVED LOVED their outfits I am going to have to go back and shop for my own stuff. Swimwear provided by Zingaras with some incredible swimsuits. Hair by Damsels & Blokes...I an so glad I found out about them because they are located near where I live and I can go there now. Super excited! Makeup by Stream Cosmetics. Photography from the awesome Montage Photographers.

Karisma Photoshoot

2010-03-12T17:05:00.000-08:00

Below are the professional pictures from the fun Spring Collection Hair photo shoot I blogged about that I was in a couple of weeks ago. You can check the rest of the photos on Facebook!

This one is one of my favorites! Looks like she is holding her baby!

Photography: Montage Photographers
Hair: Karisma (Suleiman)
Makeup: Houstonmakeup.com with Lily

Welcome to my LATE 20's

2010-03-10T22:01:00.000-08:00

For some reason I have been dreading to say that these words out my mouth "I am in my late 20's." Technically I guess 26 would be considered late 20's, but I convinced myself for a year that 26 is really MID twenties. So very immature I know, but to me "late 20's" FINALLY meant that I am "officially" a grown up. So strange to call myself a "grown up". I feel far beyond it, but I guess I just have to come to terms with it. I am 27 in my LATE TWENTIES and it is GREAT!

I certainly haven't accomplished everything I have wanted to do at this point in my life, but then again when are you EVER going to accomplish everything you want by a certain age? NEVER! It wouldn't be called life if it always went as planned. I have always loved the quote, "If you want to make God laugh, tell him about your plans."

My husband knew that I was having a hard time with this transition this year so he worked really hard to make my day extra special full of great surprises! We woke up early on Saturday and had to be out of the house by 8 am! He had the dogs jump into the truck. I was super excited because I thought my furbabies were coming along on my day. Then 2 minutes later we arrived at where we board our dogs. Mike had them boarded for the night. So weird...why would he board the dogs? Hmmm. So we go on about our day. He surprised me by taking me to the Houston Zoo. He had gotten me a membership so I can go anytime I want through out the year... fun! I had a great time. Got to see the animals in the morning where they are the most interactive.

Love Elephants! This was the trainer giving this soon to be mommy elephant a bath! She is due in the Fall!

This one was a 4 year old young elephant. It was funny because he was playing with the dog that stays in the elephant's mansion. He was soo cute!

I love how this bear is all cool and relaxed. Not a care in the world! Even though he is about to fall off the edge of this big wall.

We saw many more animals that day. It was great weather to go to the zoo! Later that night Mike surprised me with a dinner with all friends and family at a Korean restaurant. I have always wanted to share the Korean food cuisine with my friends and family. It was a lot of fun and then it was off to dancing some country music!

Not actual photo of the day we ate, but it is the same thing. We ordered for dinner Kal-bi and cooked it at our table. Sooo good!

With my best friend from college! She is so awesome! I love her!!

Classic Mike!

I heart him. He always gets me to do my goofy smile. Had a great time!

After the dancing I thought we were on our way home and Mike tells me he got a room at the Hilton in Galveston. So awesome! A mini getaway. We then get there and we were told something was wrong with our room and they would send us to another hotel and they of course would pay for it. Sweet! After that Mike tells me we were going to Schliterrbahn, an indoor water park, the next morning. Never been, but I knew it would be a blast!

It was funny walking in sweats pants to the water park. Then peal my clothes off wearing my bikini. We had a so much fun! It was cold in some parts, but it was a nice warm 80 degrees in the park. Couldn't beat that weather during our recent bipolar Texas weather.

What an eventful weekend good thing. I took 2 days off! I needed the recovery day on Monday. So awesome!I have to say this was one of the best birthdays I had in a long while. My husband did an excellent job in making feel okay with being 27 aka my late twenties. Thanks babe!

....oh and I got a new phone (HTC Hero) for by birthday!! Finally I can take photos and get all sorts of cool apps. The best gift ever!! I love it!!!

{Wannabe Model} My Hair

2010-03-06T16:24:00.000-08:00

The past few weeks my schedule has been completely just crazy with everything going on in my life. I barely even have time to be with my husband and our furbabies. During this hectic time I was a "wannabe model." I say "wannabe" because I am certainly no professional model at any means and for some reason I have been approached several times to do certain things. I thought it would be fun so I said yes. Who doesn't like to play with hair and makeup. So fun!

The first thing was a hair photo shoot for "Kharisma Hair Salon" a very upscale salon located in the Galleria area in Houston. I wish I could afford a haircut from there. They are sooo good. My talented photographer from Montage Photographers took the photos for the shoot. We took them at a dance studio in the Galleria area.

There was me and another model. I was the funky and edgy "flash dance" inspired model. The other model was the elegant chic ballerina. My outfit was really fun. I had worn black leggings, black cami, pink leg warmers, & a yellow knit top that hung off my shoulder. My hair was crazy big. It was really cool. The neatest part was how he got it so big. The whole process was fun to watch. He used zip ties to hold my hair up. Yes, zip ties! Never ever thought in a my life that I would wear zip ties in my hair. Mike was freaking out when I got home when I asked him to cut the zip ties out my hair. He was scared he was going to chop my hair off. ha!

The makeup was really awesome too. The makeup artist did a heavy airbrush makeup and warm brown eyes. I got to wear fake eyelashes again. I have to say she was awesome putting them on. I didn't even notice they were there! I loved them! I wished my eyelashes were really that long or I could wear fake ones all the time! I feel so pretty with them on.

When we got to the dance studio I was very nervous because if you know me in real life I have 0% percent flexible. I can barely touch my shins! And I was expected to do leaps and these elongated poses. The other model just my luck was a actual ballerina in the past. So I was really intimidated because I couldn't do any of that cool stuff she was doing. The only thing going for me was my cool hair do. The music started to play and we had fun. I have a great time at photo shoots, but I get so tired after wards because of the long day. Below are some pics I took of the make up and the front of the crazy hair. I will post the pro pics when I get them next week.

Bridal Fashion Show: "Evening of Bridal Luxury"

2010-03-01T14:43:00.000-08:00

I wanted to get the word out about the Fashion Show that "Houston Brides" magazine is hosting at my favorite venue "The Bell Tower on 34th."

I have heard great things about this show and have always wanted to attended, but always found out at the last minute and never went. I know I know (shaking head) I am married now and have no reason to look at gowns or wedding stuff, buts it is like eye candy. A girl can dream for her future vow renewals 7 months to be being married... ha! I can't wait to see the gorgeous gown.

Below is information on the event......

HOUSTON BRIDES PRESENTS AN “EVENING OF BRIDAL LUXURY”

THURSDAY, MARCH 25, 2010

Ain’t Love Grand! Houston Brides’ “Evening of Bridal Luxury” will take place on March 25, 2010 at the Bell Tower on 34^th from 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.

This event will give brides-to-be an experience that will help ease those wedding planning jitters. The first 150 brides will receive luxury swag bags and all brides will get a chance to win one of three honeymoon giveaways from Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita in Mexico and the Cayman Islands.

This fabulous evening features a bridal runway show full of elegance and style, with models by Neal Hamil Agency. Brides and friends may enjoy tasty bites from A Fare Extraordinaire, topped off with delicious wedding cake samples provided by local Houston vendors. There will be entertainment by Collide.

Guests will bid on several special packages at the silent auction tables. Brides will walk away with the reassurance that their wedding will be everything they’ve ever imagined!

Cost of admission is $15 for the bride-to-be and $10 for guests. Grooms-to-be are free! Partial proceeds from the event benefit Pink Door Nonprofit Organization, helping female cancer survivors begin a new life.

For more information on this event or for future events, contact Lisa Gochman at

(713) 353.9362 or via e-mail at lgochman@modernluxury.com.

DATE: Thursday, March 25, 2010

TIME: 7-9 p.m.

COST: $15, grooms are free

LOCATION: The Bell Tower on 34^th (901 West 34^th Street, Houston, Texas 77018)

Inspiration: From Bell Tower Open House

2010-02-21T18:13:00.000-08:00

You can never get enough inspiration for wedding decor! Here are some photos from the Open House at the Bell Tower on 34th this past week. There were numerous vendors at the open house, but one of my all time FAVES that I always drool over their work was "Darryl & Co." They have some of the most over the top gorgeous decor! It's amazing what they can create!

In this particular room last fall he had a peacock theme and it was drop dead gorgeous! Unfortunately I didn't have my camera then. This time I did not forget my camera and I definitely was not let down. The romantic rich reds he used was sooooo stunning!!

Walking into this room it was amazing. The lighting on the walls brought a touch of elegance!

I loved the red balls of roses! These things were HUGE!! My favorite part was the crystals hanging at the end of the string of petals! DROOL!

Above this large room was another room up in the balcony that Darryl & Co. had transformed it into a modern ceremony site. So chic! I LUVED!!

How cool are the crystal lamps and lightning down the aisle!

I love just the simplicity of white roses. So elegant!

They also incorporated carnations, which typically I am not too fond of because it looks cheap. However, I think they did an excellent job with that flower too make it a contemporary sophisticated look! This is totally not your middle school carnation where they dip it in dye and turns colors for $1. Ha!

Hope you like the reception decor ideas from the Open House! More to come in future blogs!

Happy Belated V-Day

2010-02-21T18:12:00.000-08:00

Yes, I know I am totally late on this post, but been so swamped with things going on in my life right now. Feels like the evenings on the weekends are the only times I can blog. Blah!

Happy SUPER belated Valentine's Day! I know a lot of people don't celebrate this today because you should love your mate everyday blah blah blah. I agree, but it is nice to take one day to really go all out.

This V-Day in particular was a special one because it was our first one as a married couple. I know it's cheesy, but I am big on all holidays and 1st anythings. Sorry got a little side track... So we celebrate on the Saturday evening rather than the actual day. Mike took me to an incredible restaurant called "The Bistro" which is Hubbell & Hudson's restaurant. Sooooo delicious!! I am in LOVE with Hubbell & Hudson they have the best everything!

On the actual day we just relaxed most of the day and Mike decided to make my favorite meal he makes for me...Homemade Chicken-Shrimp Alfredo. WOW! This was better than the meal from the night before! These pictures don't do justice of actually how yummy this great bite of goodness was!

I am so lucky to have such an incredible husband. I can't wait to spend all of our valentines, christmases, birthdays, new years, president days, easters, thankgivings, halloweens, st. patty's and all the other holidays and special days for ever!! We have a blast together as a couple. I wouldn't have it any other way!!

Celebrity Wedding: Khloe Kardashian & Lamar Odom

2010-02-11T19:30:00.000-08:00

I love looking at celebrity weddings as inspiration. Since most of their weddings are just over the top crazy awesome! When I heard that Khloe Kardashian was planning her wedding in less than 10 days. I thought she was crazy! A wedding for 250 and being a black tie affair could not be pulled off that quick and still be what you want as a bride. Well I was totally WRONG! I have to say Khloe and her mom did an amazing job! This was no shot gun wedding! It was one of the most beautiful celebrity weddings I have seen!

The wedding was held of the home of a family friend, music mogul Irving Azoff, in Los Angeles. Note to self....find a long lost family friend to hold a big party at their colossal mansion a castle would work too...that is the waay to do it!

I was anticipating to see what kind of dress Khloe would picked out and she didn't let me down. She chose a drop dead gorgeous tiered strapless Vera Wang gown with a lavender detailed accented sash. The sash was a beautiful way to bring the dress together. Just BREATHTAKING!!

I loved how she wore her hair. Very much her style of wearing it down and wavy. So romantic....

Her veil was a 2 tiered cathedral length with a tiara. Not a fan of the tiara, but I love the veil it self.

Khloe's color palette was elegant and chic! Fitted her style and her bridal party. I wished I would have used that gorgeous shades of purple!

Her bling is just to die for! 9 carat e-ring with a pave band! Drool...

One of my favorite pictures....I am a sucker for father of the bride things. Khloe being given away by Bruce Jenner. Bruce looks so genuinely happy for them both

Gorgeous ceremony site. Full with all white roses and flowers. I couldn't imagine how strong the fragrant would be with all those flowers. Anyways...it looks amazing! I wonder how much just her floral budget was??

The happy couple just after being hitched! This is the best feeling ever! Finally knowing that you are husband and wife!

After the ceremony "I do's" the couple had a Hollywood club themed reception in a tent with mirrors, white carpeting, white draping, chandeliers. Paartay!

I know Khloe changed a couple of times out of her beautiful Vera Wang gown into something that was more appropriate for the Hollywood club themed reception. I am not sure who made the dress, but the purple track suit were Juicy Couture that she gave her bridal party as well. Embroidered on the back was Mr. & Mrs. Odom.

For more images from Khloe & Lamar's wedding go to OK! Magazine

Show Inspiration...

2010-02-04T21:25:00.000-08:00

Man oh man what a week! So for the past week I have been trying everyday to blog, but something always came up or some kind of distraction prevented me from trying to blog. A lot has been going on and I feel like I haven't even had a chance to breathe. So blogging is my chance to finally breathe. Whew finally!

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::BREATHE IN::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::BREATHE OUT::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Okay I am good to go now! Soo...

I helped out my photographer (Montage Photographers) at his booth at the Houston Bridal Extravaganza early January. I had gone the year before as a newly engaged bride...so it was pretty interesting this year being on the other side not being one of them. To be honest it was actually REALLY great not being a bride at this show. I enjoyed and appreciated the show so much more. I guess the reason was because last year I was stressed out about the wedding planning process because at that point I had no idea where to start. The show was definitely overwhelming when I went as a bride with all the other brides and their posses trying to find a place to stick their labels for prizes, trying to take in the ideas, and just trying to meet with the many vendors. Oh the pain to plan a wedding at this point! This time around it was SOO nice to walk around and take in the gorgeous booth set ups by the vendors. So much of a better experience when you are NOT the Bride. Well for me it was. :-)

This year my face was at 3 vendors booths! How exciting! Poster child. ha ha...not really, but hey it was cool to see. When I took my bridal portraits last Fall everyone liked them so much they used them as their marketing pieces at the show. Below are the vendors my faced show up at due to my bridal session. It was a honor that they used my pictures.

Montage Photographers: Extremely talented photographer with a chic photo journalistic style
The Bell Tower on 34th Street: Gorgeous venue!
Your Beautiful Face: Awesome makeup artist at an affordable cost

Here is a picture of Montage Photographers booth & yes, you can see me in 2 of the wall portraits. It was funny some of the brides didn't realize it was me in person with a giant poster behind me. They all asked me, "Is that you?" I would laugh and say "Yep, with my hot husband." Tee Hee! I guess I don't look all that great in person since they had to ask me. Ha!

The show had some incredible decor set up! I took some pictures for inspiration. It amazes me the talent and creativity some have when it comes with flowers, lighting and decor. Such a gift to come up with ideas like this.

This one was my favorite!! I felt like I was in the ocean. Like in Finding Nemo with the jelly fish.

What a perfect centerpiece or aisle decor for a garden themed wedding!

This is a bit much, but would be cool at the guest book table or the escort card table.

There was soo many other gorgeous set ups, but I didn't get pictures. I will be going to an open house at The Bell Tower on February 16th and the will have gorgeous setups for decor. So I will take pics then and blog about them!! Fun!!

~Liz

Here Comes the Bride Banner

2010-01-25T20:34:00.000-08:00

When my husband and I were deciding on the wedding party we knew all the nieces & nephews wanted to participate in the wedding some how. So we had to find a role for all 7 nieces & 3 nephews. Yes...we were able to find roles for all 10 except 1 niece she was just so young.

You can only have so many flower girls and ring bearers. Since there were so many girls I decided to have a "House Party." They all had their own special role in the wedding. 1 was in charge of the guest book, 1 in charge of the programs, and 2 carried the banners down the aisle. They all felt special because they had to wear special attire, recieved gifts, & recognition in the wedding program just like the bridal party.

Many brides used the "Here Comes the Bride" banner in replace as flower girls or ring bearers. I wasn't replacing I was adding roles. For our two 10 year old nieces who were to old to be flower girl so this role was perfect for them and our wedding. We had them carry two banners.

1. "Here Comes the Bride": the girls carried right before I walked down the aisle.
2. "They Live Happily Ever After": they carried this right after we left the altar then the wedding party followed them out.

I was going to buy the painted banner, but they were very expensive from what I had seen online. Estimating over $100 per banner or more. So of course the budget bride that I am I decided to make them myself. I was inspired by Project Wedding brides who made their own custom painted aisle runners. If they can make that I can make a smaller version as a banner.

Disclaimer: this project is extremely time consuming. Took me a good 2-1/2 hours per banner.

Below are the directions on how to make the banner. My awesome mother in law helped me sew on the brown trim.

Materials
1. 2 yards of white fabric ($3.50 total)
2. Acrylic Paint (blue) ($0.67)
3. Thin paint brush ($3.99-you can find them cheaper I just didn't want the hairs to fall out on the banner)
4. Rod (this can be purchased at Home Depot or Lowe's)
5. Ribbon (Michael's or Hobby Lobby $1.99 per roll...I used 2 rolls)

Instructions
1. Print out the words on separate sheets on Microsoft Word. I used Chopin (www.dafont.com) 250 font size.
2. Align & tape the sheets of paper together on a flat surface
3. Place the fabric (I used 1 yard for each banner) over the sheets of paper.
4. Trace with pencil
5. Paint and fill the tracing
6. Hot Glue, Hem iron on, or sew brown ribbon on the edges.

(prior to ribbon edge sewn on)

The Finished Product!

DIY-Chic, but Simple Hydrangea Centerpiece

2010-01-18T20:50:00.000-08:00

I believe the hydrangea is one of the most chic flowers. It is so pure in its' delicate form with its' full blossom. Sweet, simple and elegant. I love all the variety of colors that they come in, but my favorite is the classic white.

I had always wanted hydrangeas for my centerpieces at my wedding reception. I had received quotes from florists for just 1 white jumbo hydrangea in a simple 6" glass vase for at least $40+. Yes, just for 1 stem! I thought that price was just absurd because all it was just one stem they were sticking into the vase and not a whole bushel of them. Sooooo I started to research online of brides who had DIY their centerpieces using hydrangeas and I heard from them all that it was pretty easy task. So I decided to just do 1/2 of my centerpieces with fresh white jumbo hydrangeas. Best decision I ever made! Saved me a ton of $$$.

I was going to purchase my jumbo white hydrangeas originally from Sam's Club who I have heard great things about. But I never got to see their hydrangeas in person so that made me a little nervous even though there were great reviews online and the other flowers I have seen at Sam's in person were just beautiful. My gut just wasn't saying yes to Sam's. So I did some more research and I stepped in to Hubbell and Hudson in the Woodlands. They had sitting out white jumbo hydrangeas and they were just GORGEOUS! Exactly what I wanted and for only $4 a stem! Totally beats the $40 from the florist and Sam's Club's price.

I then bought 2 stems from Hubbell & Hudson and made my trial centerpiece, wedding reception, and for a bridal show. It was super easy! Below are the steps I took to make them!

**If you are not in the Houston area I would definitely look into the Sam's Club. If I didn't run into Hubbell & Hudson I would have purchased them from Sam's

Materials

Jumbo white Hydrangeas
6" glass vase (at ikea they are only $2.50/each)
polished white river stones (at Hobby Lobby $2 for 3 lbs)
Scissors
Bucket
Water Bottle
H2o

1. Cut hydrangea stems at an angle and place them in a bucket that is filled half way with room temperature water. Hydrangeas get very thirsty. You must hydrate them to bring them back to life. Also, get a water bottle and mist the petals to restore them as well.

2. Take 6" glass vase and add 6-8 polished white river stone at the bottom of the vase.

3. Add water to the 6" glass vase

4. Take 1 stem at a time and cut the the length you want the hydrangea to be in the centerpiece.

5. Place the cut step in the centerpiece and use stones at the bottom of the vase to anchor the hydrangea.

6. Keep hydrangea centerpiece in the refrigerator. They are very sensitive to heat and could wilt.

Cost per centerpiece: $7.50

My Trial Centerpiece

A centerpiece I made for the Bridal Extravaganza booth for Montage Photographers

Yay for Awards!

2010-01-18T11:19:00.000-08:00

I feel so special. I just started this blog just before the holidays and I have 2 blog awards! I am just so giddy about this!

Jarcye: Eat Drink & Get Married blog thank you for the Glamorous Blog Award. I love reading your blog so great to receive an award from such a fashionista!

Thank you to Lost in White Chiffon for awarding me with the Kreative Blogger Award! I will stride to be even more creative with my blog!

Here are the rules:

1. Thank the person who gave you the award.

2. Paste the award on your blog.

3. Link back to the person who gave you the award.

4. Share seven interesting things about yourself.

5. Nominate up to 7 more beautiful bloggers.

6. Link the seven bloggers you nominate.

HERE GOES...

1. Most people think I am Hispanic because of my dark features. I am actually 1/2 Korean and 1/2 Canadian, but born in the great state of Texas.

2. I have been called Elizabeth my whole life until I was in college. Mike started to call me Liz and it just stuck with me. Now everyone besides my family calls me Liz. So much easier than Elizabeth.

3. Since I mentioned something about my name. My name in Korean is Ehlisa~short for Elizabeth. If Americans could pronounce it I would rather be called Ehlisa than Liz.

4. I didn't get my first pet until I was 17. If you know me in real life. It seems like I have been a pet owner since I could crawl because of great love I have for our dogs. I now have 3 great furbabies!

5. When I was young I wanted to be a female version of Indiana Jones. I thought Harrison Ford was just so freaking cool. Then I realized how much studying went into becoming an archaeologist and they really didn't have great adventures the like the great Indiana Jones. Oh well it was a dream.

6. I love to have my alone time. It something I really cherish. If I don't have it...I go crazy. And I don't consider being in the car by myself in Houston traffic as alone time.

7. I am extremely detailed oriented. I believe the small things add up!

Now I nominate the following bloggers for the Beautiful Blogger Award:

Nikola: The Pagnozzi Family
Rebecca: Mustang and High Heels
Ashley: Everything But the Barn Door
Emily: Just the 2 of us and a Cat

Sad Panda....Bentley & Tree

2010-01-18T08:00:00.000-08:00

Seems like this was the week that things were being cut. Literally!

First up was Bentley...
He is our oldest dog (4 years old). The past few months Bentley had been escaping out of ridiculous spots in the yard. He would get out through a hole the size of my fist and if you have ever seen Bentley his head is the size of bear cub. It is HUGE. Anyways he would squeeze out of places and run all over the neighborhood. And keep in mind we live on 2-1/2 acres and you would think that would be enough room to run around. However, I was told that un-neutured dogs do that because they are wandering looking for a female dog that was in heat miles away. So I decided it was finally time to get Bentley neutered. Of course my husband did not like that idea taking away Bentley's manhood. I told my husband it was the best thing for Bentley health wise for the future even though he was a very calm dog. He still was heart broken that Bentley would walk with a different swagger after Wednesday. This was his status on his facebook the night before...

"That beautiful big boy of mine is being forced into neutrality....why can't a man be a man? I can't bear the thought of the trauma he will endure tomorrow. He's been saying "tippy toe" all night long to me so when Liz wakes up to take him we may be gone to Vegas just so he can have a real fling before she kills his manhood."

So funny how guys think! I sure didn't feel that way when I took Lucy to get spade. I didn't think her womanhood was being taken away from her. I was more than happy to get her fixed.

I took Bentley to S.N.A.P.S on Wednesday morning. Their facility was awesome and the people were so friendly! I should have taken the other 2 there. I saved so much money taking Bentley there and they were so fast and efficient and it only cost us only $91 compared to over $250.

Bentley did great being around the puppies, kittens, and small dogs. He of course was the largest dog there. He was getting constant praise of house beautiful he was. I was so proud of him. So I left him at 8:30 am and I got a call at 10:00 am that my baby was doing great and he was in recovery. I left work a little early to go pick up the big boy and he was SLEEPY! Usually when he gets in the car he goes straight to the window and try to get his head out for air, but this time he was so tired he sat there and used the door as a pillow to prop his head on. I have never seen Bentley this tired. It was siooooo cute!

Bentley on our way home from his surgery. So saaad and sleepy! BTW I almost got into an accident on I-10 trying to take these pics behind me. LOL

At S.N.A.P.S they said I needed to keep the e-collar (AKA the big cone that dogs hate) on Bentley for 10-14 days so he won't lick the incision area. I have always thought it was funny to see dogs with that collar on, but it was even funnier seeing my very own dog, Bentley with the big cone head. The thing was so huge! He hated it! I think he was becoming claustrophobic. He was running into the walls. I gave him a treat and he couldn't even eat it. We put it on him before we went to bed and he just sat there very still for a good 30 minutes until we forced him to lay down. He didn't know what to do with that big thing. So sad for him, but man oh man he makes it look so good! He is so freaking cute!

He is feeling well now and his incision is healing perfectly! Hopefully he will stay in the yard and for his future health! He is sure glad we only put that cone head on him for only a few days.

Second up is the Martin pine tree...
This pine tree is one of the biggest pine trees in our yard of 50 other trees. It stands at at least over 100 feet tall and 10 ft around. We noticed in early October that it was dying from the top down and come to find the tree was dying from pine beetles that burrowed into it. Such a sad sad case. It was a gorgeous tree! We had been expecting it too be cut down for months, but the tree guy just never came out until the day I took Bentley to get cut as well. My husband I have to say has the wittiest FB statuses. This is the one he put after the tree was cut...

"So the wife cut my boy's boys off this morning and they're outside cutting down the biggest tree I have in my yard now...I'm not sure what message is being sent but I left my knife on the dresser, and put tin foil over my underwear just to be safe."

That Mike Martin is so silly. I would never do such a thing!

The tree is now laying in our yard. It looks like a beavers damn all over the yard with all the limbs, pine needles, pine cones, etc. It will take months to burn the limbs and the trunk of the tree. We started a bonfire this past Saturday and the smoke is still smoldering today...3 days later!

It certainly was a tough day for the men in the Martin household last Wednesday, January 13, 2010.

DIY-Save the Date! Less than $60!

2010-01-08T13:20:00.000-08:00

I love receiving Save the Dates. Especially the ones that have a magnet on them. They are so fun! And people actually keep them and put them on their refrigerator!

Below is a way to have great looking Save the Dates under $60. Perfect for the budget bride! Everyone will think you had them done professionally!

1. I downloaded fonts from www.dafont.com. and played with them in photoshop.

***you can also use the edit photo tool at your pharmacies photo website or microsoft publisher

2. Choose an image from your engagement pictures and size the image for a 4x5.3 in photoshop and set the resolution to 300.

3. I upload the image to the Walgreens site to be printed. Many pharmacies & grocery stores have there websites to do this on.

4. I purchased rolls of adhesive magnet from Hobby Lobby

5. I cut them to smaller strips and peeled the adhesive strips and slap that on the back of the picture.

100-prints: $10
2 rolls of adhesive magnet: $8
Envelopes 100 from Target: $5
Postage: $35

Total: $58

DIY- "You are invited...."

2010-01-07T17:21:00.000-08:00

I feel that your Save the Dates & invitations set the tone for your wedding. Guests start to see what your style will be like for the wedding. I feel in the past the most traditional invitations were all white with black font script. However, the trend these days is having that pop of color or some cool design or flourish on your invitations with some really chic fonts. It is such a great way to express your personality and style as a bride. Trendy, but chic. I love it!

I never noticed such chic invitations with color until I saw my step sister Laura's invitations. They had a hint of blue with a modern font. So clean and chic. So her. She had purchased them from Wedding Paper Divas. Since then Wedding Paper Divas has been my source of inspiration when it came to invitations. I wanted to purchase my invitations so badly from there. However, my budget couldn't handle the costs. So I decided that I would DIY. Not only helped me budget wise, but allowed me to make my invites exactly how I wanted them.

Invitations are not very hard to make. The hardest part is deciding what style you want because there are soooo many! Below are the steps I took in making our invitations. My sister in law liked mine so much she asked me to make hers! I was honored.

1. Decided on the main invitation size & layout
There are various sizes to choose from. Long strip size of 4x9.25, Rectangular 5x7, Large square 5.25X5.25. Remember if you choose an odd shape the postage is more. I chose a 5x7 size, which took the standard postage rate.

You want to decided if you want the layout of your invitation to be portrait or landscape

2. Decide your color palette for the main invitation and your inserts (if you choose to have inserts)
Typically you would go with the colors of your wedding. Mine were brown, teal and ivory. I had always wanted brown to be my main color and teal to be my accent.

Optional inserts:

Map & Directions
Accommodations

3. Choose the font type for your names and main invitation wording
I used 2 different fonts in the invitations. Things I wanted to accent and stand out like our names I used a Script font. The rest I used in all lower case "century gothic".

I downloaded a ton of fonts from www.dafont.com . This website it awesome! Another great one is www.abstractfonts.com .

Both were my savior with their free fonts they offered. I even used my flourish as a font (dingbats) and just used a large font size for it. I tried looking for a graphic, but I had to pay for it. I didn't really want to do that. FREE is good for me.

our names were "Scriptina"
main invitation wording "century gothic"
flourish on the side "Floralia"

4. Choose wording for invitation
Choose how you would like to word your invitation. There is an etiquette on how you word your invitation based mainly on who is covering the cost for the wedding. Traditionally it is the bride's parents, but this day and age it just not always the case. There are parents that are divorce, both families help, the bride and groom helps with a lot of the cost. I would google for the exact wording that you are looking for that is appropriate for your situation.

5. Use Microsoft Publisher or Photoshop to put it all together
I used photoshop because it allowed me to move boxes around like power point would allow you too. Gave me more control of where I wanted positions the text.

Set your size, layout, color background, color font, & font style.

6. Don't forget about the RSVPS
You can either make a smaller version of your main invitation and have RSVP wording on there. There are 2 types of RSVPs you can have.

1. RSVP card and have self addressed stamped envelope
2. POSTCARD RSVPs: This is becoming very popular and cost effective. You save money on your postage because you would pay for postcard postage (.28 cents) instead of the standard postage rate (.44 cents). Also, you don't have to pay for a smaller envelope for the RSVP to go in. Just remember the dimensions requirements by the USPS for postcards.

Postcard

Dimension	Minimum	Maximum

Height	3-1/2 inches	4-1/4 inches

Length	5 inches	6 inches

Thickness	0.007 inch	0.016 inch

Any item smaller than the minimum dimensions is not mailable. For postcards, length is the dimension parallel to the address. Postcards must be rectangular and be made of unfolded and uncreased paper or card stock.

Large cards that exceed the maximum dimensions of a postcard pay the First-Class Mail letter price or First-Class Mail large envelope price.

Front RSVP

Back of RSVP

My sister in laws RSVP Front

RSVP Back

6. Print, Stuff and Send
I would highly recommend www.vistaprint.com to print your invitations. They offer many discounts and specials. Their quality is pretty good.

For envelopes I would go with www.paperandmore.com they are at a great price.

If you do decide to do pocket folds. I would go with www.cardsandpockets.com they have a great product and the best prices.

My main invitation

My Sister in Laws Main Invitations

Bridal Extravaganza Frenzy!

2010-01-07T16:40:00.000-08:00

I decided I was going to help my photographer friend out by helping him at his booth this weekend at the Bridal Extravaganza. I think it is going to be fun being on the other end not being a bride this time. Last year I was very overwhelmed by the size of the show and the information that I received from it. Luckily my fiance at the time now husband and in laws went with me for support. I didn't know what to expect, but now knowing going through one. Here are some tips I would share if you are going to experience the craziness called the Bridal Extravaganza.

1. Wear Comfortable Shoes: by the end my legs and hips were killing me because my shoes sucked!

2. Eat before the show or bring snacks: It will take at least 3 hours to get through the whole show even if you are just stopping to a few vendors. You will get hungry and the food there can get pricey. Also, there is not a whole lot of taste testing like people think with caters and cake people. So eat! You need the energy.

3. Create a Email address just for wedding planning: after the show you will be bombarded with email blast from vendors. And they really don't stop for a long while even. I highly recommend this.

4. Make your own LABELS: they sell them at the show, but it's a waste of money. You can make your own at home. I would put only your name & email address, physical address (optional) on there.

5. Have a list of vendors you are wanting to focus on: For example, I was looking for a DJ & cater so I made sure I picked up on information and talked to several DJs & caters. And compared them from my initial meeting and information they passed out.

6. Have 2 Separate Bags: You want two bags. One for the vendors information you are very interested in and the other one of the ones you are contemplating. This makes it easier for organization. When it comes time to look at all the stuff you get there.

7. Have fun! This can be a really great time with your girls. Also, you will get a lot of great ideas & inspiration for your wedding from set ups from the various booths. Take lots of pictures!! Take it all in. You only get to plan your dream wedding once. :-)

Visit me at Booth #531! See ya there!!

DIY Bouquet!

2009-12-30T20:05:00.000-08:00

Now for my first wedding blog post....

A lot of brides are DIYing. And for a number of reasons...

#1 To save money (and yes you can save a lot of money DIYing.)
#2 Adding your own personalized touch
#3 Pride (there is alot of sense of pride knowing you accomplished such a beautiful craft you created)

I was one of these brides. I DIYed most of my things for the wedding. I did my own centerpieces for the reception (1/2 branches, 1/2 fresh jumbo hydrangeas), but not the bouquets. I thought it would be too stressful for me to do the bouquets the day before the wedding. I wanted to leave it to the professional to do that. Don't get me wrong she did a great job, but this is definitely doable to do on your own if you are up to it.

I did a bouquet for my bridals after the wedding and honestly I thought I did a better job then my florist did on my bouquet at my wedding. And it was soooo EASY!

I went to Hubbell & Hudson located in The Woodlands, TX. They are like a Whole Foods, but they have a floral department with GORGEOUS flowers. I ordered my jumbo white hydrangeas for the reception from there and they were at a great price. Less expensive then Sam's Club, which I was considering getting my hydrangeas at first. However, I saw the hydrangeas in person at Hubbell & Hudson and I fell in love. I went back there for the roses I was going to do for my bridal portraits bouquet.

Anyways back to my DIY adventure for the bouquet....

Purchased Items

12 red roses from Hubbell & Hudson total $16
Damask ribbon from Hobby Lobby at 1/2 off $2
Package of pearl pins from Hobby Lobby 1/2 of bridal $1

Total Cost: $19
Florist Cost for the same thing: $75-$100
Savings: PRICELESS

1. Cut the stems and let them sit in water
2. Cut the stems to length of how long you would like your bouquet.
3. Arrange stems in a circular ball pattern. Start with large center blossom and work your way around.
4. Wrap a rubber band around the stems to hold stems together
5. Wrap ribbon around stems leaving 1/2 an inch to spare at the base of bouquet
6. Insert pearl pin in ribbon to hold ribbon together
7. Keep bouquet in vase of water until use

From my Bridals with this Bouquet!