Gettin' By

Five on Friday.

There's new stuff popping up daily in the Two Peas store, and here are five products that I'm loving (and using!) a lot lately:

1. Lily Bee Design Pinwheel collection ($20.50).  Maybe it's because I'm craving summer right now, but the colors and patterns in the Lily Bee Pinwheel line are making me happy! I love the whole line for it's bright hues and simple patterns, but the orange polka dot pattern on the Apricot Tree paper is my absolute fave!

 

2. Two Peas Digital Cut Files (free - $1.99).  Have you stopped by the totally new Two Peas Digital store? You should! There are fresh and funky die cut files, printables and more. I adore these Light Bulbs and the Photo Frames, but there's lots more fun image available (and some are even free - like that camera above) so check it out!

3. American Crafts vellum ($.99).  I was enamoured with vellum way back when I started scrapping in the late 90s, and it's still something I use on my pages. In fact, my most current three pages all feature vellum. Everyone needs a stash of this staple!

4. Midnight Letters Stamps by Mama Elephant ($14.99). I'm a sucker for any alphabet stamps because I know I will use them consistently for titles, journaling, labels and more. This set is the perfect size for smaller titles (and ideal for Project Life cards) and the outline + solid stamps is like getting two alphas for the price of one!

5.  Kate & Co Decorative Tape by My Mind's Eye ($9.99). My inner prep is ecstatic with this new line from MME. The mix of soft aquas and yellows with kelly green and navy have me thinking of boat shoes, argyle sweaters and Izods with popped colors (layered up, of course!) These tapes are one of my favorite items from the collection - and they'll be making a cameo appearance in my next Seeing Double video!

Happy Friday!

Five on Friday.

Time for another edition of Five on Friday, otherwise known as the posts where I list five things I've got my eye on and will inevitably end up buying after all my internet friends tell me how much I really, really need them. So let's get the enabling started!

1.  Skirt Sports Marathon Chick Skirt ($60.00). Spring is definitely my favorite time to run in Colorado. The weather is cool enough that you're not sweating buckets (and, in my case, complaining the whole time) but warm enough to sport bright and cute running attire like this skirt. I am a die-hard running skirt girl because, duh! Exercise is all about looking cute (both during & after!

2.  Calvin Klein Dolly Acid Yellow Pumps ($62.99). For about the past 8 months, I've been coveting a pair of neon yellow heels. Actually, I should say my 12-year old self has been coveting these heels. And my 41 year-old self has sensibly admonished (and squelched) all such requests for trendy neon footware. But after seeing my favorite fashion blogger sporting a similar pair, I may just be rockin' these babies like it's 1984.

 
3. To & Fro Tote ($35.99) Love this coral cotton tote for everything from schlepping library books home to smuggling adult beverages into the community pool, er, I mean healthy snacks for the children! Yeah, that's the ticket!

 

4. Hawaiian Tropic Shimmer Effect Sunscreen ($7.99). I think I've already mentioned this fabulous sunscreen before, but I plan to stock up on this stuff again this summer. It's a really light, non greasy sunscreen that adds a slight shimmer and sparkle to your skin. And the scent is classic Hawaiian Tropic - coconutty, beachy and exactly how a sunscreen should smell!

5.  Bryant Park Scarf ($59.00). It's likely to be quite a few more weeks before it's truly spring here in the Centennial State. So scarves will still be an accessory I'll be reaching for. And what better adornment to go with my neon yellow heels than this fabulous pink wrap? (It also comes in blue, green, poppy and tan if you're not feeling the 80s flashback like me.)

Happy Friday, my friends!

 

Five on Friday.

A list of five completely random things on my mind this Friday:

1. Riely's Spring Concert. We attended the second grade music concert this week and realized quickly after arriving that our two kiddos have completely opposing views on musical performances. Hayden dreaded every concert and would stand on stage like a zombie, barely moving his lips, looking like he was would rather have his toenails removed than be on the stage. Riely, on the other hand, was smiles and waves, singing loudly, tapping her feet, and enjoying every minute in the spotlight. There may have even been jazz hands.

photo credit

2. McDonald's Fish McBites.  I don't ever frequent McD's, but the constant ads on my internet radio station have brought to my awareness this new concoction on the menu. And the ad also uses the words "succulent" and "tangy" to describe them. Which makes me shudder. Sorry McDonald's, but McBites sound McGross.

3. Lucky Charm papers from Dear Lizzy.  I know the scrapbook world is all abuzz with their love for this line, and you can add me to the list of adoring fans. I recently bought the 6x6 paper pad and have to state emphatically that I love every single piece of paper in this pad.  Pink horses, polka dots, anchors and umbrellas - all in a perfect petite little package. Adore!

4. Grandma Neva's Art.  My 95-year old grandma has been participating in some art activities at a senior center, though she claimed she has "no artistic talent".  Then my aunt sent me a notecard that the center had printed using one of Grandma's paintings on it (above). And she say's that's not even her best piece! Well, now I know who to thank for passing down the artist genes!

5. The weather forecast.  They're predicting a foot of snow for our area over the weekend, and I can't decide how I feel about that. Half of me is excited to batten down the hatches, stoke up the fireplace, and drink red wine, all while watching the snowflakes fly. The other half has really, really been enjoying the warm spring weather we've had lately and feels like giving Old Man Winter the bird for bringing that to an abrupt halt. And (ahem) he wouldn't be the first guy who's witnessed my middle finger this week.

So what's on your mind today?

Five on Friday.

This week (only a few weeks later than most resolution-making peoples), I decided it was time to hop back on the workout wagon and get into a regular exercise routine. Ready to kick things off with a bang, I popped in Jillian's Extreme Shed & Shred dvd and proceeded to do both the Level 1 and Level 2 workout. The next day, I made a few discoveries I thought I'd share today.

1.  Jillian proclaims she's devised a "total body workout," and she's not kidding. The next day, I awoke to my body screaming what the hell have you done to me?! every time I'd move. Areas where I didn't even know I HAD muscle (my armpits - seriously!?) were sore.

 2. When your armpits (amongst other areas) are aching, you tend to avoid raising your arms. Like at lunchtime when the healthy turkey and avocado are on the top shelf of the frig, but the leftover red velvet cake is on the middle shelf. And then you'll justify your cake binge by assuring yourself that red velvet must contain beets, chard, and other healthy stuff to make it that color.

3.  The obvious goal of exercise - to look and feel fit, young, and healthy - is seriously negated when you're hobbling around like a old lady. Especially when your husband is kind enough to point it out with endearing phrases like "Hey Grandma! You need a cane to get up those stairs?!"

4. When you try to repeat the initial workout, Jillian's shouts of "Don't you dare quit now!" will not be as inspiring as they were the first time. In fact, they kind of make you want to punch her in the neck. Sadly, you will be too sore to punch anything. So you just lie on the living room floor and shout obscenities at the TV instead.

5. Ice can really help ease muscle pain.  Especially if it's floating in a strong gin & tonic.

Happy Friday!

 

 

Five on Friday.

1.  Sanitas Pumpkin Enzyme Mask ($32.00).  You know how exciting it is when Starbucks debuts the Pumpkin Spice Lattte for the season? Well this is the same treat, just for your face in stead of your tastebuds! It's a delicious (almost edible) smelling pumpkin spice concoction that evens skin tone, exfoliates, and moistures in a delightfully seasonal way.

2. Tights for Every Occasion ($14.99).  It's time to stock up on winter legware, and these are perfect for keeping your gams warm while wearing skirts & boots. I love that they come in tall sizing (so the crotch isn't riding at my knees!) and the range of colors includes red, mustard, cobalt, navy, and dark grey.

3.  Creamy Pumpkin Candle ($19.50).  Ever since Bath & Body Works discontinued my signature home scent Creamy Caramel, I've been on the hunt for a suitable replacement. This candle fits the bill nicely, with scents of caramel, vanilla and pumpkin that make the house smell warm, yummy and definitively fall-ish!

4.  C.O. Bigelow Merry Mentha Lip Shine in Gingerbread Latte ($3.75). I love all the Mentha lip balms, but this one is especially perfect for the season! Plus it's on sale right now for 50% off, so it's an ideal time to stock up.

 

5.  Owl Adventure Indie Bag ($53.99). How cute is this little canvas bag?! I love the applique and the dual handle option (there's also a cross-over body strap). And the interior lining - a vibrant, fun floral print - would make you happy everytime you opened it.

Enjoy your Friday (and don't miss the Jenni Bowlin giveaway a few posts down - it's open until Monday!)

 

 

Five on Friday.

1. RockPaperFlower Sugar Pine City Tote ($19.99).  I adore the pinecone print on this slightly oversized tote featured on zulily today. It's got a water-resistant lining (always good for moms!) and a no-fuss magnetic closure on top.


2. Xhilaration Color-Blocked Cardigan ($17.99). Cute trendy pieces like this are the reason I can't quit Target. This light-weight, loose weave cardi pairs vibrant yellow (love!) with heathered tan and is awesome for transitioning into those chilly fall mornings.


3.  Frye Veronica Shortie in Chocolate Vintage Leather ($288.00).  When fall rolls in, my boots come out (and I pretty much live in them all winter!) These Fryes are my newest additions and I love their casual, slouchy look with skinny jeans or corduroy skirts.


4.  Salted Caramel 3-Wick Candle from White Barn ($19.50).  Fall scents are my favorite, and Bath & Body Works has so many yummy smelling candles right now. This one is a warm, I-just-baked-something-yummy smell that's perfect for the season. (And right now you can sample some scents with their mini candles, on sale 2 for $5!)

5.  Snappy Snuggle Scarf ($24.99).  Another thing I love about fall? The gorgeous, rich color palette! And this scarf has the perfect combination of saturated orange, yellow and teal with neutral grey and black. Want!

Happy Friday, y'all!

Five on Friday.

Today's list is five things I will miss about summer!

1. Bridgeport Summer Squeeze ($6.49).  This is a girly girl beer - a light crisp ale, with hints of lemon grass and yuzu fruit (which has to be a totally made up fruit just for marketing purposes, no?) and this girly-girl loves it.

2. Smith Serpico Aviators ($118.00).  I may have listed these before on a Five on Friday, but my minty green shades deserve the repeat attention. I love that Smith makes a smaller-sized aviator for those of who don't want to endure Top Gun jokes every time we wear shades. The aqua hue makes them definitively summery, but I love these specs year round!

3.  Crayola 3D Sidewalk Chalk ($19.99). There is nothing better than seeing a huge span of concrete driveway covered in artistic masterpieces. And when you can pop on 3D glasses and have them come to life, it's even better. Seeing a driveway covered in snow (that um, needs to be shoveled!) is just not the same (though it doesn't require 3D glasses).

4.  Havaianas Top Flip Flops ($18.99).  When summer says goodbye, so do my beloved black flip-flops. Though I guess that means I can stop worrying about pedicures, since my tootsies will soon be covered in wool socks, right?!?

5.  J Vineyards Pinot Gris ($19.99).  Yes, there's two alcoholic beverages on today's list. (Do you know me AT ALL, dear readers??!)  I will miss the slightly fruity (with hints of tangerine, Margarita lime and Tahitian vanilla) and always refreshing flavors of this perfect warm-weather wine when autumn rolls in.

Enjoy your dwindling summer!

Six on Saturday.

1.  Real Simple's Easy Delicious Home Cooking ($24.95). I had grabbed this book from our library earlier this summer because the book design is simple, clean and makes phenomenal use of white space (all things I love in a cookbook!). Recipes are divided by season and each one feature a full-page photo of the dish with the recipe on the opposing page. After testing several of the dishes (chicken & orange skewers with zucchini rice, chorizo & potato tacos with black bean salsa, and chicken verde enchiladas) AND getting rave reviews from the fam, I went ahead and bought my own copy. (Pssst....it's on sale at Amazon for $14.10!)

2.  Alba After-Sun Lotion ($11.95).  I love every single product I've ever tried from Alba, from face cleanser to shampoo to sunscreen, and this lotion is no exception. It's awesomely rich for quenching summer-parched skin without being greasy. Plus it smells divine - a bit like cocoa and coffee and sun tan oil all mixed together.

3.  Ozo Coffee's Espresso Isabelle ($14.00).  I'm not one to stray far from my beloved Starbucks, but after tasting this local coffee house's espresso, I'm a convert. It is so amazingly fragrant, rich and dark, just opening the bag fills the kitchen with lovely coffee bouquet (I need to convince them to make a candle in this scent!) It makes my morning cappucino totally worth getting out of bed for. And if you're not local, you can order their grinds online!

4.  Moving Comfort Fiona Sports Bra ($46.95) I've passed enough er, unsupported? ladies on my morning runs in the past few weeks to feel compelled to post the link to this bra as a PSA to my fellow well-endowed runner girls out there. I love this bra (own it in four colors!) and it keeps the chest area locked and loaded in even the most high-impact of activities. Because it's sized like a regular bra (cup sizing - no S, M, L) and it has adjustable straps, you get a perfect fit. So the only thing bouncing will be your pony tail :)

5.  Blue Bell Christmas Cookie In July ice cream ($5.69) Of course, we can't talk about running and exercise without mentioning the obvious pay-off - ice cream! And there's none better than Blue Bell. (Um, it's quite likely the reason my Freshman 15 may have turned into the Freshman 45.) This seasonal flavor - sugar cookie ice cream with chunks of chocolate chip, snickerdoodle, and sugar cookie dough with candy cane shaped sprinkles and a green icing swirl - is reason enough to go for a run, trust me!

6. Hatch a Color Scheme Flat ($32.99). It's not too early to start thinking about fall fashion, right? I'm adoring these multi-colored vegan flats because I think they'd be the perfect match for a new pair of red skinny jeans I snagged a few weeks back. Plus, I've got several cardis in those hues just waiting to make an appearance when cooler weather rolls in. Yep, I think I'll be adding these to my shopping cart soon!

 

Five on Friday.

1.  Ruffle Front Poplin Dress ($59.95.) I had pinned this dress awhile back, in love with the ruffled bodice and coral color. And now that's on sale for $35.95, I think it needs to come home to me!

2. Hawaiian Tropic Shimmer Effect SPF 8 ($7.99). On our trip to Laguna Beach, we grabbed a bottle of this suncreen at a local store and I love the light, non-greasy formula. The light-reflecting mica minerals give skin a shimmery bronze look and it smells fabulous, too!

3.  Rayban Wayfarer ($174.95).  I have wanted a pair of Wayfarers for ages (um, probably since I first saw Risky Business??) and last Christmas, Mike got me these. The softer color combo of ivory and brown are a bit less bold than traditional black and they've become my go-to shades for summer.

4.  Twister 2 at Elitch Gardens. Since both kiddos are now over the 48" height requirement, we got season passes to the local amusement park and are now on a mission to log lots of roller coaster rides this summer. It took some coaxing to get Riely to take her first ride on this classic wooden monster, but she's now a bonafide coaster fanatic, too!

5.  Diameters Are A Girl's Best Friend Necklace ($64.99) Eeeeeek - how fun is this necklace? The colorful string and fabric circles are vibrant and festive and would be perfection with a simple white tee and jeans. Love!

 

Five on Friday.

A list of five things making me happy this week!

1.  Clif Bar Coconut Chocolate Chip ($13.99/12). I'm pretty sure that if I had to exist solely on Clif Bars for the rest of my life, I could do so happily. I love these bars for their convenience, relatively healthy ingredients, and darn delicious flavors. My latest obsession is Coconut Chocolate Chip, which tastes like an Almond Joy mated with a oatmeal cookie...and that's pretty much perfection in my book.

2.  Brand New Diary Dress by Eva Franco ($224.99). I recently ordered this dress for an upcoming wedding and was just a bit apprehensive about it fitting (and being flattering) in the um, chest area? With the deep V neckline and the pleats on the bust? I shouldn't have worried, as once it arrived and I slipped it on it was perfection. Fitting? Check! Flattering? Check! Comfortable? Check! And the 12-year old fashionista in me thinks the hot pink belt is TOTALLY AWESOME.

3.  In-Kind Volumizing Shampoo & Conditioner ($7.99 each).  I'm constantly on the hunt for a shampoo that will breath life (read: volume, body, bounce & shine!) into my somewhat fine hair. Because I have a deep-seated passion to one day be one of those girls in the commercials that flings her impossibly shiny and sleek tresses over her shoulder while being filmed in slow motion. When I dream, I dream big, people. And this new line from Safeway is making that dream one step closer. On the days I use it, my hair is noticeably fuller, easier to style and uber soft. Which might not get me a commercial cameo, but hey, I'll take it!

4.  RYU Grey & White Striped Bubble Dress ($59.99). I love the daily emails from Zulily because they bring little gems like this to my inbox everyday, without having to scour local boutiques for cute, cute clothes. This sweet cotton dress has some fabulous details (hello fabric corsage!) and paired with some red sandals, I think I'll be donning it quite a bit this summer.

5.  Bliss Spa Baggage Handler Eye Gel ($28.00).  My love of wine and late-night scrapping is not exactly the ideal formula for waking up refreshed and vibrant. In fact, I'm sure anyone who ever witnessed me awaking would never use words the words refreshed  or vibrant to describe me. Ragged and volatile, perhaps. But thanks to this little miracle-in-a-tube, I can look somewhat less zombie-ish after applying it. If only all the baggage in my life was this easy to unload!

And with that, I wish you the happiest of Fridays, my friends!