Snacktime Storage!

About a year ago, I was roaming down the canning aisle at Wal-Mart trying to find Ball mason jars for my sister's bachelorette party when I ran into these neat Ball freezer jars.

I picked up two sets of the 8-oz. jars and two sets of the 16-oz. jars.

After I purchased them, I didn't have enough time to use them (with all of my sister's wedding festivities going on), so I placed them in a cabinet and forgot about them. When I was cleaning out that particular cabinet this past weekend, I found them, washed them, and immediately started using them.

I love the fact that the lid strews on!!! My daughter has a tendency to sneak into (literally) the pantry, choose a snack, and hide in there until she is finished. Now, with these screw on lids, she will have a harder time doing that.

Pantry Shelf Before

My husband and I were seriously just throwing random candy, gummies, and snacks into this one small Rubbermaid container. Bad idea!!!

 

The Containers

 

 



Pantry Shelf After

 

 

 

Before and After

 

 

I even have a few containers that I didn't use, which means I have more room for extra snacks.

 



About a year ago, I was roaming down the canning aisle at Wal-Mart trying to find Ball mason jars for my sister's bachelorette party when I ran into these neat Ball freezer jars.

I picked up two sets of the 8-oz. jars and two sets of the 16-oz. jars.

After I purchased them, I didn't have enough time to use them (with all of my sister's wedding festivities going on), so I placed them in a cabinet and forgot about them. When I was cleaning out that particular cabinet this past weekend, I found them, washed them, and immediately started using them.

I love the fact that the lid strews on!!! My daughter has a tendency to sneak into (literally) the pantry, choose a snack, and hide in there until she is finished. Now, with these screw on lids, she will have a harder time doing that.

Pantry Shelf Before

My husband and I were seriously just throwing random candy, gummies, and snacks into this one small Rubbermaid container. Bad idea!!!

 

The Containers

 

 



Pantry Shelf After

 

 

 

Before and After

 

 

I even have a few containers that I didn't use, which means I have more room for extra snacks.

 



Read more ...

My Cleaning Tips!

 

Last week, I shared some of my top cleaning essentials...

 

This weekend, it is all about the process...

 

I started on some cleaning projects around my house this past weekend. In my household, cleaning can refer to two things: dusting or cleaning-out. I haven't gotten to the dusting stage. That will begin once school is out on Friday. But, I have started the "cleaning-out" part. Over time, cabinets, drawers, closets, pantries, etc. get filled with mess. It just happens! It doesn't matter how nice you cleaned and organized it the first time around, you still have to continuously revisit it.

 

Through my years of cleaning, I have developed some tips that I "try" to follow. Some are easier than others, but I do know what I am supposed to be doing...

 

#1

 

(picture source)

 

You have to know where you are going in order to know what path to choose. Right?!?! Notice that I said the word "goals" and not "goal." It is best to set several goals throughout the process. Smaller goals are more attainable and will keep you motivated to continue on. I HAVE to do this or I go insane. I will tell myself, "Today, my goal is to cleaning out the pantry." Once that goal is reached, I can either relax for the rest of the day or set another goal. I actually have a sense of accomplishment more often using this method, which gets me pumped for my next goal.  

 

 

#2

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The dust bunnies aren't going anywhere. Believe me, if a magical cleaning fairy appeared at some point, I would definitely know about him or her. So, don't bust your rear end trying to speed through the process. I have learned from experience that it only makes you mad, frustrated, and completely exhausted!

 

 

#3

 

(picture source)

 

Over the years, I have learned that taking breaks is a must! The times that I haven't taken breaks, I have paid for it that evening and the next day. My feet will hurt, my back will ache, and sometimes, it even becomes hard to walk. I must confess that sometimes I do not clean in the best footwear. Maybe I should work on that a little!

 

 

#4

(picture source)

 

This is very very important! If you haven't dusted for awhile and try to use the same rag for the entire house, you are wasting your time. After awhile, all you are doing is smearing the dust all over your furniture. Sad, but true!!! I usually try to use a rag for the fans, and then, a rag for each room in my house unless a room is extra dirty, then I may end up using two rags per room.

 

Now, to the bathrooms and kitchen... Same thing applies to these rooms. At some point, you are just smearing dirty water or a dirt/cleaner mixture on your counters, tubs, sinks, etc. Don't forget to use separate rags/sponges for your toilets. You sure don't want toilet water in your tub. ; ) 

 

 

 

#5

 

(picture source)

 

This is probably my biggest weakness! I have trouble asking for help in all areas of my life. But, especially when it comes to cleaning. I get to a point where I feel like the dust is piling up around me (remember, I am OCD) and sometimes it doesn't bother my husband as bad. So, I have a hard time asking him to spend his "extra" time helping me clean the toilets. LOL!!! He would definitely help if I asked, but I just have a hard time asking. I am sure other ladies can relate.

 

 

#6

 

(picture source)

 

Music helps everything go by faster. Right?!?! Why not attempt to enjoy the cleaning process by listening to your favorite songs. Hey! It may even get you in the cleaning mood. It definitely won't hurt.

 

I hope you find these tips helpful! I will definitely keep them in mind when I begin my dusting portion of my cleaning adventure next week.   

 

 

Last week, I shared some of my top cleaning essentials...

 

This weekend, it is all about the process...

 

I started on some cleaning projects around my house this past weekend. In my household, cleaning can refer to two things: dusting or cleaning-out. I haven't gotten to the dusting stage. That will begin once school is out on Friday. But, I have started the "cleaning-out" part. Over time, cabinets, drawers, closets, pantries, etc. get filled with mess. It just happens! It doesn't matter how nice you cleaned and organized it the first time around, you still have to continuously revisit it.

 

Through my years of cleaning, I have developed some tips that I "try" to follow. Some are easier than others, but I do know what I am supposed to be doing...

 

#1

 

(picture source)

 

You have to know where you are going in order to know what path to choose. Right?!?! Notice that I said the word "goals" and not "goal." It is best to set several goals throughout the process. Smaller goals are more attainable and will keep you motivated to continue on. I HAVE to do this or I go insane. I will tell myself, "Today, my goal is to cleaning out the pantry." Once that goal is reached, I can either relax for the rest of the day or set another goal. I actually have a sense of accomplishment more often using this method, which gets me pumped for my next goal.  

 

 

#2

(picture source)

 

The dust bunnies aren't going anywhere. Believe me, if a magical cleaning fairy appeared at some point, I would definitely know about him or her. So, don't bust your rear end trying to speed through the process. I have learned from experience that it only makes you mad, frustrated, and completely exhausted!

 

 

#3

 

(picture source)

 

Over the years, I have learned that taking breaks is a must! The times that I haven't taken breaks, I have paid for it that evening and the next day. My feet will hurt, my back will ache, and sometimes, it even becomes hard to walk. I must confess that sometimes I do not clean in the best footwear. Maybe I should work on that a little!

 

 

#4

(picture source)

 

This is very very important! If you haven't dusted for awhile and try to use the same rag for the entire house, you are wasting your time. After awhile, all you are doing is smearing the dust all over your furniture. Sad, but true!!! I usually try to use a rag for the fans, and then, a rag for each room in my house unless a room is extra dirty, then I may end up using two rags per room.

 

Now, to the bathrooms and kitchen... Same thing applies to these rooms. At some point, you are just smearing dirty water or a dirt/cleaner mixture on your counters, tubs, sinks, etc. Don't forget to use separate rags/sponges for your toilets. You sure don't want toilet water in your tub. ; ) 

 

 

 

#5

 

(picture source)

 

This is probably my biggest weakness! I have trouble asking for help in all areas of my life. But, especially when it comes to cleaning. I get to a point where I feel like the dust is piling up around me (remember, I am OCD) and sometimes it doesn't bother my husband as bad. So, I have a hard time asking him to spend his "extra" time helping me clean the toilets. LOL!!! He would definitely help if I asked, but I just have a hard time asking. I am sure other ladies can relate.

 

 

#6

 

(picture source)

 

Music helps everything go by faster. Right?!?! Why not attempt to enjoy the cleaning process by listening to your favorite songs. Hey! It may even get you in the cleaning mood. It definitely won't hurt.

 

I hope you find these tips helpful! I will definitely keep them in mind when I begin my dusting portion of my cleaning adventure next week.   

 

Read more ...

Bedroom Colors!

Since I jumped into the idea of redecorating my bedroom, I have thrown around different color combinations in my head. I am female, so I automatically go towards the bright and frilly colors. But, then I have to stop and remember that my husband does share the room with me and he doesn't want to see polka dots all over the place. So, I am trying to compromise and choose colors that are a little more gender neutral, but by throwing in a great print in those colors, you can see a sense of me in the room.

After thinking... and thinking... and thinking...

Here are the colors that I am leaning towards using in our master bedroom.

 

 

At the moment, you are probably thinking, "how blah!" But, I am looking at some prints and patterns that will make each one of these colors stand out.

 

I have a confession to make... This is the first time that I have jumped in and designed a room by myself. I usually find a comforter or bedspread that I like and buy it with all the accessories and call it a day. Not this time!!! I am going to attempt to match colors, fabrics, prints, and accessories.

 

I am a little nervous about this whole process, but I am trying to stay confident. The goal is to finish the room and not give up!!! So, bear with me... I am sure it will be a fun ride.

 

 

Since I jumped into the idea of redecorating my bedroom, I have thrown around different color combinations in my head. I am female, so I automatically go towards the bright and frilly colors. But, then I have to stop and remember that my husband does share the room with me and he doesn't want to see polka dots all over the place. So, I am trying to compromise and choose colors that are a little more gender neutral, but by throwing in a great print in those colors, you can see a sense of me in the room.

After thinking... and thinking... and thinking...

Here are the colors that I am leaning towards using in our master bedroom.

 

 

At the moment, you are probably thinking, "how blah!" But, I am looking at some prints and patterns that will make each one of these colors stand out.

 

I have a confession to make... This is the first time that I have jumped in and designed a room by myself. I usually find a comforter or bedspread that I like and buy it with all the accessories and call it a day. Not this time!!! I am going to attempt to match colors, fabrics, prints, and accessories.

 

I am a little nervous about this whole process, but I am trying to stay confident. The goal is to finish the room and not give up!!! So, bear with me... I am sure it will be a fun ride.

 

 

Read more ...

A Bedroom Window Dilemma & Inspiration!

Just call me Mrs. Indecisive! I have always been an individual that hated putting a bed in front of a window. I am not sure why, but my OCD self just didn't like it. For some odd reason, it never felt balanced to me.

Side note: I will move furniture around in a room, look at it, and see if I get the right "feel" from the arrangement. I like my room to give me that balanced feeling in my head, and if it doesn't, it bothers me.

I know... I am weird! But, I have been that way since I was little. I can remember moving my furniture around in my childhood bedroom over and over again.

Since my husband and I are working on the appearance of our bedroom, we have been looking at ways to move furniture around (amongst other things). This past weekend, my husband mentioned moving our bed in front of the large window in our room. It is the only other wall in our room where the bed can be placed, so it is either leave it the same or move it to that wall.

On a positive note, the window is sitting directly in the center of the wall. So, we will have just enough room on either side of the window to place our end tables.

After thinking about it and continuously looking at my room, I may give it a shot. I mean, what is the worst thing that could happen? I may hate it, but I can always move it back to it's original place.

So, today, I wanted to scope the Internet for some inspirational photos of beds in front of windows. Take a look at what I found...

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Check out my favorite inspirational bedroom pictures on my Bedroom Inspiration board on Pinterest.

 

Just call me Mrs. Indecisive! I have always been an individual that hated putting a bed in front of a window. I am not sure why, but my OCD self just didn't like it. For some odd reason, it never felt balanced to me.

Side note: I will move furniture around in a room, look at it, and see if I get the right "feel" from the arrangement. I like my room to give me that balanced feeling in my head, and if it doesn't, it bothers me.

I know... I am weird! But, I have been that way since I was little. I can remember moving my furniture around in my childhood bedroom over and over again.

Since my husband and I are working on the appearance of our bedroom, we have been looking at ways to move furniture around (amongst other things). This past weekend, my husband mentioned moving our bed in front of the large window in our room. It is the only other wall in our room where the bed can be placed, so it is either leave it the same or move it to that wall.

On a positive note, the window is sitting directly in the center of the wall. So, we will have just enough room on either side of the window to place our end tables.

After thinking about it and continuously looking at my room, I may give it a shot. I mean, what is the worst thing that could happen? I may hate it, but I can always move it back to it's original place.

So, today, I wanted to scope the Internet for some inspirational photos of beds in front of windows. Take a look at what I found...

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Check out my favorite inspirational bedroom pictures on my Bedroom Inspiration board on Pinterest.

 

Read more ...

My Cleaning Essentials!

This past weekend, I told my husband that I was going to do some massive cleaning once school is out. Our last day is next Friday, the 24th. My house hasn't had a good cleaning since my baby was born. I know, I am super embarrassed, but what are you supposed to do when you have a four-year-old running around and a newborn to care for? Don't get me wrong, I have done some light cleaning here and there, like cleaning bathrooms and a little dusting, but nothing major. So, it is long overdue!

I must have great timing because yesterday I was reading Jen's daily post on one of my favorite blogs, iheartorganizing, and she was introducing her May mini-challenge. And, what might that challenge be... Cleaning House!!!

 

 

Now, I have some motivation to get my house clean! Since I have one more week before I can start this challenge, I thought I would show everyone my cleaning army. I have tried many cleaning products over the years and these are the ones that I have been using recently to get my house in tip-top shape.

 

 

1. Swiffer Duster Extenders - These are perfect for cleaning fan blades, crown molding, and walls.

 

2. rags - I have a box of old towels and dish cloths that serve as my cleaning crew.

 

3. Clorox disinfecting wipes - I love to use these on the bathroom counters. I also keep a set in the bathroom cabinets for those times when you want to disinfect the counter and toilet real fast.

 

4. o-cel-o sponges - I use these to clean the tubs, kitchen sink, and oven.

 

5. Swiffer sweeper - I LOVE to use the sweeper on my hardwood floors and tile. I use the dry cloths for the hardwood and the wet cloths for the tile. My daughter even enjoys helping in this department.

 

6. Clorox Green Works natural all-purpose cleaner - I use this for mirrors, windows, and everything in between since it is an all-purpose spray.

 

7. Kaboom Foam-tastic cleaner - I have tried MANY bathtub cleaners and this one is by far the best I have tested. You spray a blue foam on the tub and let it sit for a little while. When you come back, the foam has turned grey from the dirt on your tub. Awesome!

 

8. Mr. Clean Magic Eraser - When I have a tough stain on the tub (usually from makeup I have noticed) and the Foam-tastic doesn't get it off, I turn to these handy items. Just a little scrubbing will get anything off.

 

9. Clorox toilet bowl cleaner - I use this on my toilets. I love that it has bleach too. It makes me feel like my toilets are extra clean.

 

10. Pledge furniture spray - I use this for all the wood furniture. I love the smell of lemon. It screams CLEAN!!!

 

11. Lysol disinfectant spray - I love to spray the couch, chairs, comforters, etc. with this awesome spray. It helps eliminate all the germs.

 

What you haven't noticed on my list is a lot of Earth-friendly products. My goal is to start incorporating more and more environmentally-friendly cleaning supplies. They are not only better for the environment, but for us as well. Breathing in chemicals is not good for anyone, no matter what age you may be. If you have a "green" product that you can't live without please share it with me.

 



 

This past weekend, I told my husband that I was going to do some massive cleaning once school is out. Our last day is next Friday, the 24th. My house hasn't had a good cleaning since my baby was born. I know, I am super embarrassed, but what are you supposed to do when you have a four-year-old running around and a newborn to care for? Don't get me wrong, I have done some light cleaning here and there, like cleaning bathrooms and a little dusting, but nothing major. So, it is long overdue!

I must have great timing because yesterday I was reading Jen's daily post on one of my favorite blogs, iheartorganizing, and she was introducing her May mini-challenge. And, what might that challenge be... Cleaning House!!!

 

 

Now, I have some motivation to get my house clean! Since I have one more week before I can start this challenge, I thought I would show everyone my cleaning army. I have tried many cleaning products over the years and these are the ones that I have been using recently to get my house in tip-top shape.

 

 

1. Swiffer Duster Extenders - These are perfect for cleaning fan blades, crown molding, and walls.

 

2. rags - I have a box of old towels and dish cloths that serve as my cleaning crew.

 

3. Clorox disinfecting wipes - I love to use these on the bathroom counters. I also keep a set in the bathroom cabinets for those times when you want to disinfect the counter and toilet real fast.

 

4. o-cel-o sponges - I use these to clean the tubs, kitchen sink, and oven.

 

5. Swiffer sweeper - I LOVE to use the sweeper on my hardwood floors and tile. I use the dry cloths for the hardwood and the wet cloths for the tile. My daughter even enjoys helping in this department.

 

6. Clorox Green Works natural all-purpose cleaner - I use this for mirrors, windows, and everything in between since it is an all-purpose spray.

 

7. Kaboom Foam-tastic cleaner - I have tried MANY bathtub cleaners and this one is by far the best I have tested. You spray a blue foam on the tub and let it sit for a little while. When you come back, the foam has turned grey from the dirt on your tub. Awesome!

 

8. Mr. Clean Magic Eraser - When I have a tough stain on the tub (usually from makeup I have noticed) and the Foam-tastic doesn't get it off, I turn to these handy items. Just a little scrubbing will get anything off.

 

9. Clorox toilet bowl cleaner - I use this on my toilets. I love that it has bleach too. It makes me feel like my toilets are extra clean.

 

10. Pledge furniture spray - I use this for all the wood furniture. I love the smell of lemon. It screams CLEAN!!!

 

11. Lysol disinfectant spray - I love to spray the couch, chairs, comforters, etc. with this awesome spray. It helps eliminate all the germs.

 

What you haven't noticed on my list is a lot of Earth-friendly products. My goal is to start incorporating more and more environmentally-friendly cleaning supplies. They are not only better for the environment, but for us as well. Breathing in chemicals is not good for anyone, no matter what age you may be. If you have a "green" product that you can't live without please share it with me.

 



 

Read more ...

Planning for Family Photos!

When my daughter was born, we set up a "Watch Me Grow" series of photos with Photography by Katrina in Union City, Tennessee. Katrina takes pictures of your baby at 3 months, 6 months, 9 months, and then 12 months. And, of course, we had family photos taken at each session as well. We were very happy with the way Katrina's photos turned out, so we decided to use her again for Derrick. Our first session is May 18th and I am trying to decide what photos I want taken and the outfits I will need for each.

Having pictures taken requires some planning, especially when you have 4 individuals to think about in the process. One thing I have learned is that simple is better! Wearing busy clothing distracts from the picture. So, I am trying to keep that in mind.

If you know me and my husband, you already know Derrick is getting a few FOOTBALL themed photos made!!! We can't help it. We are a football family. My husband is a coach, so you know I want to capture Derrick in that environment.

Since this session is coming up real soon, I have been searching the Internet for inspirational photos. I wanted to share some of the pictures (and Websites) that I have found as inspiration.

(source)

 

I love the casual look. Less is more when taking pictures, I think.

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Derrick has this blanket.

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I can not express enough how much I adore this picture.

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I hope that my daughter will cooperate, so I can get a picture like this made.

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I would love to get a picture of Kate and all of her princess dresses.

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All of these photos plus a few others are pinned on my Pinterest board called Fabulous Photography.

 

I can't wait to share the actual pictures with y'all. Have a wonderful weekend!!!

 

When my daughter was born, we set up a "Watch Me Grow" series of photos with Photography by Katrina in Union City, Tennessee. Katrina takes pictures of your baby at 3 months, 6 months, 9 months, and then 12 months. And, of course, we had family photos taken at each session as well. We were very happy with the way Katrina's photos turned out, so we decided to use her again for Derrick. Our first session is May 18th and I am trying to decide what photos I want taken and the outfits I will need for each.

Having pictures taken requires some planning, especially when you have 4 individuals to think about in the process. One thing I have learned is that simple is better! Wearing busy clothing distracts from the picture. So, I am trying to keep that in mind.

If you know me and my husband, you already know Derrick is getting a few FOOTBALL themed photos made!!! We can't help it. We are a football family. My husband is a coach, so you know I want to capture Derrick in that environment.

Since this session is coming up real soon, I have been searching the Internet for inspirational photos. I wanted to share some of the pictures (and Websites) that I have found as inspiration.

(source)

 

I love the casual look. Less is more when taking pictures, I think.

(source)

 

Derrick has this blanket.

(source)

 

I can not express enough how much I adore this picture.

(source)

 

I hope that my daughter will cooperate, so I can get a picture like this made.

(source)

 

I would love to get a picture of Kate and all of her princess dresses.

(source)

 

All of these photos plus a few others are pinned on my Pinterest board called Fabulous Photography.

 

I can't wait to share the actual pictures with y'all. Have a wonderful weekend!!!

 

Read more ...