the girl in the red shoes

And the Winner is....

2012-02-10T08:30:00.000-05:00

The winner of the personalized coaster set from Embellished Living is...

Congrats Krystal! And remember, between now and February 11th The Girl in the Red Shoes followers can receive 15% off any order from Embellished Living! Use the code REDSHOES15 at your Etsy checkout. This would be the perfect time to snag a gift for your special someone!

Thanks to everyone who entered, and happy Friday!

and p.s.....guess what comes out tomorrow on blu ray?

Get excited.

Valentine's Day Love Found on Pinterest

2012-02-08T05:59:00.005-05:00

Happy Wednesday everyone! Thanks to Pinterest I'm excited for Valentine's day! Now if only I had time to make some of these adorable crafts....a girl can dream, right?

Source: blog.crescendoh.com via Julie on Pinterest

This one looks easy and adorable. Such a cute way to spice up your mason jars!

Source: domesticatedlady.com via Julie on Pinterest

If I still passed out valentines I would totally do this. It's just too cute for words!

Source: theidearoom.net via Julie on Pinterest

Love love love this heart wreath.

Source: eighteen25.blogspot.com via Julie on Pinterest

So cute and so true. I like the heart garland to.

Source: Uploaded by user via Julie on Pinterest

Easy bookmarks made out of the paint sample cards....a cheap and easy gift!

Source: vanessascraftynest.blogspot.com via Julie on Pinterest

Oreo pops.....I might have to whip up a batch of these for my husband this year.

Source: bethproudfoot.blogspot.com via Julie on Pinterest

Love this little Valentine's day love chain.

What are your favorite pins this week?

Oh, and don't forget to enter my personalized coaster giveaway!

Embellished Living Giveaway

2012-02-07T09:41:00.000-05:00

I am SO excited for this giveaway! The lovely ladies at Embellished Living are celebrating their one year anniversary on February 9th and want to let us join in the fun!

As you may recall, Embellished Living gifted me last year with this beautiful monogram wreath....currently residing in my downstairs bathroom. I get compliments on it all the time!

And my husband worked with them on our anniversary gift this past year....personalized coasters with our wedding date, Mr., Mrs., and an R for our last name. LOVE them!

Want a chance to win your own set of personalized coasters? Here's what you'll need to do to enter:

1. Be a follower of my blog and leave a comment letting us know your favorite item from Embellished Living's Etsy shop. I'm currently crushing on this Red Felt Rosette Wreath that would be would be perfect for Valentine's Day!

2. For a second entry "like" Embellished Living on Facebook and leave a comment letting me know you did so.

3. For a third entry follow Embellished Living's blog and let me know you did so.

You have until Thursday at midnight to enter. I'll announce the winner on Friday.

Oh, but wait, it gets better!
See something you just have to have right now from Embellished Living? Between February 9th and 11th, The Girl in the Red Shoes followers can receive 15% off their order! Use the code REDSHOES15 at your Etsy checkout. This would be the perfect time to snag a gift for your special someone. I love these Valentine's Day Scrabble Tiles.

Good luck, and thank you again Embellished Living for letting us celebrate one year with you!

Monday Confessions

2012-02-06T08:33:00.000-05:00

1. I'm doing my post in bullet form this morning. I am so dang tired. The stupid Super Bowl is on way too late in Michigan.

2. I didn't mean to take a week off of blogging. Life sort of got in the way last week and I just didn't have time to post....but I'm back now!

3. I'm totally making up for my lack of blogging last week by doing a giveaway this week....it's a good one, so stay tuned!

4. Did you watch the Super Bowl? I sure did....but mostly for the commercials as usual. But don't tell my husband I said that. Again this year our favorite was by Volkswagon. Remember the commercial from last year? My husband still talks about it. But this one was pretty cute too.

A chubby dog starts to exercise and eat right so that he can catch up with the VW. Kills me.

What was your favorite commercial?

Scenes from the Weekend

2012-01-30T09:49:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday everyone. I totally could have used one more day in my weekend. We didn't do much, but it seemed to fly by!

On Saturday night the husband and I went to see a production of Harvey downtown. It was so cute. Have you seen the old movie staring Jimmy Stewart? If not, go out right now and rent it right now....it's a classic.

It's about a man who's best friend is an invisible six foot tall rabbit. Everyone thinks he is crazy, but he turns out to be the most sane person in the movie/play. The best parts are when Jimmy Stewart keeps looking up to Harvey to talk to him and then tries to introduce him to someone who can't see him....obsessed.

In other news, we got a ton of snow over the weekend. This has been the weirdest winter ever....we get a ton of snow, then it gets warm and it all melts, and then we get a ton more. Miss Sophie was begging to go out and investigate so I finally let her....and she loved it!

All week the husband and I have been craving ginger ale, so we finally went to target to pick some up, but couldn't decide which kind....so we had a taste test! I think I prefer Canada Dry.

How was your weekend?

Loves found on Pinterest

2012-01-25T05:59:00.000-05:00

Happy Pinteresting Wednesday! As much as I love Wednesdays, I just want this week to be over all ready. Anyone else with me? Friday can't come soon enough!

Did you find any cute stuff on Pinterest this week? I sure did!

Source: positivelysplendid.com via Julie on Pinterest

DIY Stacked Frame tutorial. GET OUT. This is beyond adorable. Must re-create asap!

Source: casasugar.com via Julie on Pinterest

I love chalkboard paint on an old dresser....this would be really cute in a kids room!

Source: theoldpaintedcottage.blogspot.com via Julie on Pinterest

Dear husband: Please build me these shelves. I NEED them in my dining room NOW. Or you could hire someone to build them for you...that would be fine too.

Source: abeautifulmess.typepad.com via Julie on Pinterest

DIY garland tutorials....adorable and easy!

Source: beingbrook.com via Julie on Pinterest

I just love this. I'm sure I'll never make one, but still, I love it.

Source: etsy.com via Julie on Pinterest

This necklace is so sweet and simple. I have a similar one with both mine and my husband's initials. I get compliments on it all the time.

Source: jseverydayfashion.com via Julie on Pinterest

Remember this post? I totally need some blue skinnies asap!

Source: justbesplendid.tumblr.com via Julie on Pinterest

And because I must end on something sweet, this caramel apple cake looks amazing!

What are your favorite pins this week?

Love My Hana Hairdryer

2012-01-24T10:12:00.000-05:00

It seems like a lot of bloggers lately have been raving about the Hana Hairdryer....and I'm totally going to join in because oh my word....this hairdryer is all kinds of awesome.

Several weeks ago the kind people at Misikko sent me the Hana Air Professional Hairdryer to take for a spin. Let's just say I'm in love and never going back. This hairdryer is amazing....and super powerful. They also sent all kinds of other goodies....bath soap, nail files, an eyelash curler, comb, Paul Mitchell shampoo and conditioner, a carrying case...and a stuffed monkey, which Wrigley stole before I could snap a photo.

What I like best about the Hana Air Professional is that it is super powerful. I bet I could turn it on and point it in the direction of my husband in a different room and he could feel it. All that power translates into quick and easy drying time for me. My hair is crazy thick....so thick that it has to air dry for at least an hour before I even attempt to dry it with a hair dryer. When I get my hair cut at the salon usually two people dry my hair. So, I love that the Hana Air Professional Hairdryer cuts my drying time in half! And my hair is super soft too.

Did I mention the Hana Hairdryer has a crazy long cord too? I can totally multi-task with it....love!

Misikko also makes curling irons and straighteners....both are on my "want" list now!

Do you love your hairdryer?

*I was not paid for this review, all thoughts are my own.

Easy DIY Dog Silhouette

2012-01-23T08:54:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday everyone! Over the weekend I finally got around to a mini project that's been on my to-do list since November....a DIY dog silhouette! My mom has been wanting one of her sweet collie Sydney for awhile now. Sydney is 13 years old and can no longer hear...but she's such a sweetheart. This project was really easy, so I thought I'd share how I did it with all of you.

First, try to get a profile photo of your dog. This was really hard to do since Sydney could not hear us and kept getting confused. So I made do with what I had!

Adjust the photo on your computer screen until it is the size you want. I wanted mine to fit into a 5x7 frame. Then, turn up the brightness on your computer so you can see the photo really well. From there, simply use computer paper to trace the outline of the dog.

Since Sydney is sort of at an angle and her mouth is open (I wanted it closed for the silhouette) I had to fudge it a bit and draw a few parts free hand. I am no artist...but I think it turned out pretty good!

Then, flip over your drawing and use the old-school tracing method. I made sure I had pencil marks all around the outline of the silhouette. Then flip it back over and trace it on to black card stock. You'll be able to see a faint pencil outline on your black paper. Then cut it out!

Here is the finished product! I taped the silhouette onto a 5x7 piece of white card stock and stuck it in a frame.

Easy and simple gift for any dog lover! I'm going to make one of Wrigley next....as long as I can get him to sit still for a photo, that is.

Pinteresting Wednesday

2012-01-18T05:59:00.001-05:00

Happy Wednesday! Did you find anything good on Pinterest this week? I sure did!

Source: wearenotmartha.com via Julie on Pinterest

I'm obsessed with these personalized platters! What a cute engagement or wedding gift! Plus, those are the husband and my initials...double cute!

Source: granddesignco.blogspot.com via Julie on Pinterest

If you've been reading my blog for awhile now you know I'm in love with all things chevron. And these frames are no exception. I might have to try making one myself!

Source: thatssolittlerue.tumblr.com via Julie on Pinterest

This is such an adorable idea. Place toys your child used to play with in a jar for display...so cute. I could probably do this now with the husband's old cars....except he might be tempted to play with them.

Source: decorchick.com via Julie on Pinterest

We are totally doing this (only not all the way up the wall) in the extra bedroom in our house. Goal for 2012...make this happen!

Source: etsy.com via Julie on Pinterest

More chevron love...in clutch form.

Source: knockoffdecor.com via Julie on Pinterest

Totally easy DIY burlap bulletin board. Why didn't I think of that?

Source: polyvore.com via Julie on Pinterest

I'm lovin' everything about this outfit. Anything I can wear with boots is good in my book.

Source: twopeasandtheirpod.com via Julie on Pinterest

Can someone please make me this grilled cheese with guacamole sandwich asap? Thanks in advance.

What are your favorite pins this week?

this that and the other

2012-01-16T09:00:00.000-05:00

First of all, thank you for all of your sweet comments on my red skinny jeans post! You are too sweet! Even though most of you loved the skinnies, I did end up returning them over the weekend. I just wasn't 100% in love with them...so why keep them? Several of you suggested jewel tone colors instead....and I couldn't agree more!

Case in point: Miss Emma Stone at the Golden Globes last night.

See? Redheads look good in purple.

Did you watch the Golden Globes? I watched bits and pieces and then fell asleep! What were your favorite dresses of the night?

Besides Emma, Paula Patton might be my favorite. She totally rocked the yellow!

I thought Jessica Alba looked beautiful as always.

In other news, it's finally starting to look like winter here in Michigan! We got a ton of snow over the weekend. Lot's of snow means lots of cuddling on the couch and watching movies.

We rented Moneyball and thought it was really good. My husband loved the baseball history and tried to educate me....he didn't get too far.

How was your weekend?

Red Skinny Jean Fail

2012-01-12T08:30:00.005-05:00

I've been wanting some red skinny jeans for a while now. I found a pair on sale right before Christmas and snagged them up! After all, these ladies make them look so cute!

Source: blondeepisodes.com via Julie on Pinterest

Source: thedaybookblog.com via Julie on Pinterest

Source: kendieveryday.blogspot.com via Julie on Pinterest

Source: runningonhappiness.blogspot.com via Julie on Pinterest

But on me? Not so much.

Red Jeans + Red Hair = Bad Idea

I really wanted to love these because I got a great deal on them...but I just don't. Plus I don't have a cute top to wear with them. Sigh.

In a moment of genius I tried them with my black flats and actually like them a lot more....but still they are going back to the store. I'm so glad I kept the tags on! If you don't have red hair and can pull these off, they can be found HERE. Plus they are super comfy.

So tell me...are you a fan of the red skinny jean? Maybe I need to try another color? Suggestions?

Pinterest on a Wednesday!

2012-01-11T05:59:00.000-05:00

Oops...I meant to blog yesterday, I swear....totally don't know what happened! And the worst part? I can't remember what I was even going to blog about! So far I guess life in 2012 has been pretty boring. But you know what's not boring, ever? Pinteresting Wednesday of course!

Source: etsy.com via Julie on Pinterest

I'm totally lovin' this XO wreath for Valentine's day. Confession: My Christmas wreath is still hanging on our front door. I totally forgot to put it away with all of our other Christmas stuff.

Source: flickr.com via Julie on Pinterest

I love this idea of displaying photos. This would be adorable at a baby's first birthday party!

Source: Uploaded by user via Julie on Pinterest

LOVE the bright colors in this photo! This would never go in my house, but still, it's pretty!

Source: domestically-speaking.com via Julie on Pinterest

Tutorial on how to print directly on burlap with your printer. Please somebody do this and report back!

Source: tatertotsandjello.com via Julie on Pinterest

Another awesome tutorial on covered pendant light shades.

Source: smallrooms.tumblr.com via Julie on Pinterest

I did this with my scarves over the weekend! It's awesome....except when you tip the hanger and they all fall to one side. That is not so awesome.

Source: polyvore.com via Julie on Pinterest

I love this green top! Must get one like it asap! After all, green is totally my power color.

Source: sugarbabyaprons.com via Julie on Pinterest

Pink lemonade pound cake. Yes please!

What are your favorite pins this week?

The Weekend in Photos

2012-01-09T09:54:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday everyone! This weekend flew by! We finally got all of our Christmas decorations down and packed away. We usually take things down during the first few days of January...but just didn't have time this year. Are you the type of person who puts everything away the day after Christmas? Or do you wait forever to take it all down like me? Putting away Christmas stuff always makes me really sad.

Our poor empty tree waiting to be recycled.

All of our Christmas stuff packed up and ready for next year!

Despite being sad, it always feels good to have a fresh clean house after everything is put away.

I worked most of Saturday, so we had a pretty low key weekend and spent lots of time snuggling with sweet Sophie. She's grown so much in two weeks! I keep telling her to stop so that she can stay a baby forever.

She's become quite good buds with Wrigley...she's even tried to eat his food! It makes me so happy that everyone gets along.

How was your weekend?

P.S. Did anyone watch the new TV show The Firm, on NBC? I watched the first half of the premiere and really liked it. It is the same characters from the movie, just 10 years later. I hope it sticks around!

Movie Love

2012-01-05T08:30:00.000-05:00

During our week off of work for Christmas, the husband and I went to see two great movies...and one not so great one.

We saw War Horse and both loved it. I couldn't recommend this movie more. I was really hesitant to see it at first because I didn't want to see a horse get hurt. Remember when I couldn't even make it through Water for Elephants? I was worried the same thing would happen while watching this movie. I'm still a little sensitive about animals since this happened. I kept asking the husband "but does the horse die?"....of course he didn't know but reassured me it would be a good movie regardless....and he was right! I did shed some tears a few times, but it was worth it. This movie is what good movies are made of. Go see it now. (If you must know if the horse dies or not, e-mail me and I'll tell you.) Oh, and the boy who plays the main character? Cutie pie.

We also saw The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. Talk about two vastly different movies! But we both really liked it. I've read the books (and loved them) and the movie definitely did the books justice. A few things were changed, but it was still really good. The husband liked the movie too but didn't read the books. I think in order to understand what is going on you must read the book first! And beware...this movie is really long and had a few very graphic scenes. If you've read the book you know what I'm talking about.

Lastly, we saw In Time at the discount theater. Don't waste your time on this one. Literally. It was d-u-m-b.

Have you seen any good movies lately?

Now Back to Pinterest

2012-01-04T05:59:00.003-05:00

I took a break from Pinterest over the holidays but now I'm back! So many cute things were pinned over the course of the week...I feel totally behind!

Let's get started!

Source: countryliving.com via Julie on Pinterest

Mason Jar soap dispenser. I keep seeing these pop up and totally need to make one.

Source: do-it-yourselfdesign.blogspot.com via Julie on Pinterest

DIY ruffle blanket. Not that I can sew. But still. It's cute.

Source: dondalees.blogspot.com via Julie on Pinterest

Love everything about this. Use cool whip to make your own marshmallows. So freakin' cute. And those mittens are adorable too.

Source: citified.blogspot.com via Julie on Pinterest

LOVE LOVE LOVE this! Such a cute idea for Valentine's day!

Source: Uploaded by user via Julie on Pinterest

I totally want to glitter my keys. My husband would be so embarrassed.

Source: robbygurlscreations.blogspot.com via Julie on Pinterest

If only I could be this organized with my menu planning. A girl can dream right?

Source: organizingmadefun.blogspot.com via Julie on Pinterest

Clean your house in 15-20 minutes a day. I need to start doing this. I hate spending huge chunks of time cleaning on the weekend.

Source: letstalktrunk.com via Julie on Pinterest

Love everything about this outfit. I need to get some cute boot socks asap.

Source: doughmesstic.net via Julie on Pinterest

Dark chocolate and salted caramel topped shortbread. What diet?

What are your favorite pins this week?

Crazy Cat Lady

2012-01-03T08:30:00.000-05:00

I didn't mean to take another blogging break yesterday....but the weekend just got away with me! Going back to work after a week off is SO hard....it's especially hard when everyone else still has the day off!

We had a great New Year's Eve....usually we have a party at our house but decided against it this year. It was so nice to not have to stay up until midnight. That's right, I said it. I'm totally not a party girl. I went to bed at 10:30!

The rest of the weekend was spent lovin' on Miss Sophie. I just can't get enough. I'm SO that mom.

Seriously, look at those feet! Can you blame me for being obsessed?

For those of you who've asked, Henry and Wrigley seem to love Sophie just as much as I do. Well, maybe "love" isn't the right word. Henry spent the first two days alternating between hating her and being afraid of her. Luckily he came around and seems to like her. He still won't snuggle up to her for a picture....much to my dismay.

Wrigley, on the other hand, is OBSESSED with Sophie. He wants to know where she is at all times. He wants to play so badly with her....but he totally freaks her out. The above picture was taken on day 4 when Sophie could finally be in the same room as Wrigley without either of them freaking out. Her out of fear, and Wrigley out of excitement.

And now, we're here. Full on puppy kisses. I'm not sure Sophie liked this...but it's progress!

Did anyone do anything fun for New Year's? Or were you like me and in bed before the ball dropped?

So Yeah.....and My Christmas Present

2011-12-29T08:47:00.001-05:00

I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas! I didn't mean to take such a long blogging break! The husband and I both have this week off of work...and when you add in Christmas fun plus both of us being sick, not much blogging happens. The good news is the husband is starting to feel better. The bad news is I'm starting to feel worse.

Anyway, I thought I would share some of our Christmas with you! On Christmas Eve I spent most of the day feeling sick and watching movies on the couch. Luckily my mom saved the day by bringing over the most delicious meal so that this sick girl didn't have to cook. We ended up opening presents that night. Want to see my favorite gift? Be prepared for cuteness beyond words.

Meet Miss Sophie! That's right...the husband got me a kitten for Christmas! She is beyond adorable and the sweetest kitten we've ever had. She starts purring whenever you talk to her or look at her. We have been talking about getting a friend for Henry for awhile and after we met her it just felt right.

On Christmas day we went to my in-laws house for the day and had a great time!

Wrigley had fun too....despite looking terrified in this photo. Unfortunately my camera died right after taking this.

For dessert I made a Christmas trifle.....it turned out more like a trifle that got slimmed. I called it the Grinch Stole Christmas trifle. It was yummy.

And now, some more cuteness. Sophie looks so big here...but really she is tiny.

It's impossible to get her to sit still for a photo....she just wants to love on you instead. Best Christmas gift ever....my husband knows me so well!

Merry Christmas from our house! And Happy New Year!

**Edited to add: For those of you who've asked, the garland the husband and I are standing in front of is actually two skinny Christmas trees my father-in-law tied together at the top!

Merry Christmas from Our House to Yours

2011-12-23T09:00:00.000-05:00

This is Happening....

2011-12-22T09:26:00.001-05:00

Today at work today we are having an ugly Christmas sweater party!

Thanks to my wonderful neighbor, I am decked out! I even made a headband to match. We'll be voting today and the person with the ugliest outfit wins $100!

I think my co-worker has me beat for best/ugliest outfit. If I didn't love her so much I'd be so mad at her!

And in case you were wondering I am, in fact, also wearing red shoes!

Pinterest Love this Week

2011-12-21T06:00:00.001-05:00

This is the last Pinteresting Wednesday before Christmas! Get excited! I had to limit my Christmas pins this week....they are making me feel really overwhelmed because there is just not enough time in the day to make all of these adorable projects.

Source: witandwhistle.com via Julie on Pinterest

Paint half of a cute mug with chalkboard paint. Genius. And adorable.

Source: etsy.com via Julie on Pinterest

I love baker's twine....and need it in every color.

Source: craftaholicsanonymous.net via Julie on Pinterest

Adorable pom pom ornaments. A cute and easy project.

Source: witandwhistle.com via Julie on Pinterest

Chevron print. This would look good on a gallery wall.

Source: etsy.com via Julie on Pinterest

LOVE LOVE LOVE this.

Source: polyvore.com via Julie on Pinterest

Sparkly New Year's or party outfit. A girl can dream, right?

Source: sweetrosestudio.com via Julie on Pinterest

Red velvet whoopie pies. Have I posted these before? They just look too yummy, I can't help myself.

Source: handmaderyangosling.tumblr.com via Julie on Pinterest

Speaking of not being able to help myself, I dying over these "Hey Girl" Ryan Gosling pins. I tried to explain to my husband why these were funny....and he totally didn't get it.

What are your favorite pins this week?

I Heart Christmas Music

2011-12-20T08:45:00.000-05:00

I have a small obsession with Christmas music. However, I am not one of those people who listens to Christmas music right after Halloween. I try to hold off on listening to it until after Thanksgiving....but usually break down that week and give in. My all time favorite Christmas song is Sleigh Ride...the instrumental version by the Boston Pops. I can't get enough....especially of the part that sounds like a horse's stomping feet and whip. LOVE it. No matter where I am when I hear that song I have to act out the percussion parts..it's just SO good.

One of my favorite Christmas albums is John Denver and the Muppets. It just isn't Christmas without listing to this album over and over again. We had this on record when I was a baby, then on tape when I was a kid, and now on CD. It's all kinds of awesome...especially Miss Piggy's "five golden rings....ba-dum bum-bum" part in "12 Days of Christmas". It's the best...trust me.

This year I'm really lovin' Michael Buble's album. Just when I thought he couldn't get any cuter, he goes and sings amazing Christmas songs. Love him.

I also love Straight No Chaser's album. Their "12 Days of Christmas" is all kinds of awesome. Basically anything they sing is awesome.

Mariah Carey's "All I Want for Christmas is You" is a classic must have.

I also really like Taylor Swift's Christmas album. She can do no wrong in my book.

What are your favorite Christmas Albums/Songs?

3 Weekend Christmas Goals...

2011-12-19T08:42:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday! Can you believe Christmas is almost here? This month seems to be going by so fast and I'm running out of time to get everything accomplished. We had three goals for this weekend: 1. wrap all the presents, 2. do some Christmas baking, and 3. finish shopping for gifts.

Goal #1 accomplished! I love wrapping presents. We cut back on gifts big time this year so it was fairly easy!

Goal #2? Big fat fail. I didn't bake a single thing. I didn't even buy ingredients to make anything. But that doesn't mean we didn't enjoy some yummy cookies, courtesy of Oreo.

And goal #3? I went shopping with my mom....but didn't buy any gifts. Fail. I did manage to buy a cute hat for myself though....does that count?

Have you finished your Christmas shopping and wrapping? What about baking? Please tell me I'm not the only one behind this year!

Noel Letters

2011-12-16T08:16:00.002-05:00

Happy Friday! I'm crashing Holly's blog, Eight Six Eleven today! Go check it out to see how I made my Noel letters and leave some love!

Awkward and Awesome....Never Say No to Pie

2011-12-15T09:40:00.000-05:00

Happy Thursday! Is it just me or does it seem like this week is just dragging on and on? I just want it to be Christmas already! Today I'm linking up with The Daybook for Awkward and Awesome Thursday....because life is sometimes awkward but still awesome.

Awkward

1. Introducing people to each other when you've forgotten the person's name. Why does this happen to me all the time? The husband and I now have a system in place for this....if I don't know someone's name, I just say "Hi, good to see you! This is my husband, Jon" and then Jon says, "Hi, I'm Jon", shakes their hand, and hopes that the person then says their name. Totally works....most of the time.

2. Accepting free pies. The week of Thanksgiving, the realtor we used when we bought our house three years ago e-mailed us letting us know we could stop by his office for a free pie. Sounds good right? The husband totally made fun of me for RSVPing yes...but I wanted that pie! I totally thought I could just stop by, pick up the pie, and go. WRONG. I had to do a filmed...yes filmed!...interview about my experience working with him. Totally embarrassed. And totally unprepared. But....that brings me to my "Awesome"

Awesome

1. Turns out that free pie? Also included an entry into an iPad drawing. And guess who won? This girl! Totally worth that embarrassing interview!

2. I now have earned the title, "Best Wife Ever." Lesson learned: Never say no to a free pie.

Christmas on Pinterest

2011-12-14T06:00:00.001-05:00

Happy Pinteresting Wednesday everyone! I'm linking up some of my favorite Christmas pins with The Vintage Apple....and you should too!

Source: goodhousekeeping.com via Julie on Pinterest

Good Housekeeping's cardboard template for Rudolph. Get out of town! I SO want to do this!

Source: hollymathisinteriors.com via Julie on Pinterest

I love everything about this photo...the burlap stockings and the Holy Night canvas are amazing! Oh but I just noticed the faceless nutcrackers...so maybe I don't love "everything."

Source: niagaranovice.blogspot.com via Julie on Pinterest

Burlap hurricane candle...adorable and simple.

Source: iheartnaptime.net via Julie on Pinterest

Chevron Ho Ho Ho plate....so fun!

Source: womansday.com via Julie on Pinterest

I love these mini wreaths hung on each chair...such a cute idea!

Source: redredcompletelyred.blogspot.com via Julie on Pinterest

Pine cone Christmas trees! Why didn't I think of that?

Source: hanielas.blogspot.com via Julie on Pinterest

Dear Santa:

I'll make you these candy cane peppermint patties....

Source: urbanoutfitters.com via Julie on Pinterest

...if you get me this chevron duvet cover. Pretty please? I've been SO good....

Source: runningonhappiness.blogspot.com via Julie on Pinterest

...and also these polka dot tights too. Thanks Santa.

What are your favorite pins this week?

Wrigley and Henry's Wish Lists

2011-12-13T08:45:00.000-05:00

I posted my Christmas wish list over on Sarah's blog a few weeks ago but then realized that Wrigley and Henry would like to share their wish lists with you too!

Wrigley has been a very good boy this year.

Every dog needs a proper Christmas Bow Tie, don't you agree? I like this one found on Etsy.

I really love this Chevron doggie bed cover (but in grey and white instead of yellow) from Etsy. I think Wrigley would like that green dog toy too.

Kong Snake Toy....recommended by Wrigley's blog friend Molly. Supposedly it's hard to destroy!

Hide-a-bee toy. Wrigley got the hide-a-squirrel-in-a-log version last year for Christmas and it's one of his favorite toys.

A gift certificate to Wrigley's favorite doggie day care, Camp Bow Wow. Wrigley LOVES doggie day care! And I love how tired he is when he gets home.

Now, what's on Henry's list? He's had a tough year but is just as sweet as ever.

Red and White Polka Dot Collar....I think he would look handsome in red.

Charlene Butterbean approved Christmas Sparkle Balls from Henry's favorite blog, The Itty Bitty Kitty Committee.

Cat grass. Henry LOVES to eat plants and flowers...this would be a good compromise.

What's on your pet's wish list this year?

More Love for The Help...and a Winner

2011-12-12T09:10:00.001-05:00

Good morning! I hope you all had a great weekend. The husband and I spent the weekend doing some Christmas shopping....and I'm proud to say we are almost done! Have you finished your shopping yet? I'm always super jealous of the people who are done the day after Thanksgiving. That is never me.

We spent the rest of the weekend hanging out and also attended our annual neighborhood Christmas party. We live on a small cul-de-sac and always get together with everyone around Christmas to catch up and eat lots of yummy food. I sadly didn't take a single picture.

In other news, we finally watched the movie The Help. Oh my word. Go out and rent this movie right now! It was so so so good. You must read the book first though, which was also amazing. Even the husband enjoyed this movie.

Thank you to everyone who entered my Stella and Dot giveaway! The winner is Ashley from Turquoise and Teal! Congrats Ashley! Look for an e-mail from me today. And thanks again to Melissa for sponsoring this giveaway. Be sure to check out her site for more amazing Stella and Dot jewelry!

Holiday Party Outfit by Schue Love

2011-12-09T08:45:00.000-05:00

I'm so excited for today's post. I asked the lovely Natasha from Schue Love to share with us a cute holiday party outfit...and in true form she came through with something absolutely perfect! Natasha is one of my favorite bloggers....she always has amazing outfits, recipes, and decor on her blog! Thanks Natasha!

Hi Friends! I'm Natasha from Schue Love and I'm so excited to be crashing Julie's blog to show you a little Holiday Party ensemble I put together just for you.

Dress / Ring / Earrings / Clutch / Nail Polish / Shimmer Brick / Booties

When it comes to holiday parties, it's all about the dress. I love something festive...like a little sparkle to make a statement. This Top Shop dress is perfect for the holidays...long sleeves to keep you warm & toasty and some fun sequins!

This season I am obsessed with bows...and these Juicy Couture earrings add just the right touch. I also love this vintage Chanel ring...just stunning!

Keeping with my sparkle theme...this clutch has great flair for the holidays and is quite versatile with the silver and bronze details. I thought the Bobbi Brown shimmer brink {my favorite makeup palette!} tied in the sparkle nicely...and of course, who can pass up a glitter nail polish this time of year?

Last...in honor of my girl Julie...I paired this look with these amazing RED ankle booties! These just scream holidays to me and adds a fun edge to the dress.

I hope this helped kick start some ideas of what to wear during this festive time of year...thanks again to Julie for having me today!

xo natasha

Oh Christmas Tree

2011-12-08T09:00:00.009-05:00

I LOVE setting up our Christmas tree. The husband and I always get one right after Thanksgiving and spend the day sipping hot chocolate, listening to Christmas music, and decorating the tree. Although I end up doing most of the decorating....

Today I'm linking up with Honey We're Home to share my Christmas trees!

Here's our main Christmas tree in the living room. I believe in A LOT of lights....I think I used at least 9 or 10 strands on this tree.

Our topper this year is a large snowflake and an "R"

That's me in the second grade!

My friend Heather gifted me with ornaments a few years ago that were from my cats. This one of Pancake is especially sweet this year. He always loved our Christmas trees. We miss him every day.

There are not any presents under our tree yet! So I filled my in-law's old berry basket with a few little decorations.

We also have two mini trees this year. This one in the kitchen is going to display Christmas cards, each secured with a clothes pin....it's looking a little bare right now...come on people, get on it! I'm happy to report as of today all of our cards have been sent!

Here's a shot of our family room decorated for Christmas.

And of course we have a mini tree in here too! This one is technically Henry's tree....he's knocked it over at least 4 times already.

Merry Christmas from our house to yours! Make sure you link up and check out more Christmas trees!

And don't forget to enter my Stella and Dot giveaway HERE.

Christmas on Pinterest

2011-12-07T06:00:00.003-05:00

Happy Wednesday! I've been pinning Christmas stuff for what seems like ages on Pinterest! Now if only this month would slow down a little I might actually have time to do some of these projects!

I'm linking up with The Vintage Apple for Pinteresting Wednesday....and you should too!

Source: homeforchristmas.co.uk via Julie on Pinterest

I just love this mantle. We have a flat screen TV above ours, which makes decorating tricky. I would love to do this....I'll just have to find a different place for it!

Source: creativedecorations.com via Julie on Pinterest

You all know I have a wreath obsession. I love this simple wreath with sparkly stars...it would be cute for the winter months too.

Source: imgfave.com via Julie on Pinterest

You are the sparkle in my snowflake....love!

Source: anwjohnston.blogspot.com via Julie on Pinterest

Burlap and canvas tree skirt! And according to the pin, it's "no sew." I NEED this!

Source: mostlovelythings.blogspot.com via Julie on Pinterest

Adorable brown paper bag advent calendar.

Source: hgtv.com via Julie on Pinterest

DIY felt snowflake table runner. Looks easy and adorable.

Source: etsy.com via Julie on Pinterest

Burlap ornaments....another easy DIY on my long to-do list.

Source: bakelab.blogspot.com via Julie on Pinterest

Gingerbread cake balls.....yum! I usually make red velvet cake balls each Christmas....but I might have to switch things up a bit this year.

What are your favorite Christmas pins this week?

And don't forget to enter my Stella and Dot necklace giveaway HERE

Oh Christmas Lights

2011-12-06T08:31:00.002-05:00

I think I mentioned last week that we hung up our Christmas lights, didn't I? In any case we got to work early this year and were able to put them up when it was warm outside instead of snowing like last year!

Speaking of last year, remember our dilemma?

We used LED lights for the first time and boy, were they bright! Even though we were fans of LED lights in general, they just didn't look good on our house. They were too bright and cool compared to the warm lights inside our house and on our Christmas tree.

So last year I picked up some new traditional lights at an after Christmas sale. I plan to get more this year so that we can do the second story too. I think it looks so much better, don't you?

In other news I also made a new wreath for our front door!

An "R" of course!

It was really easy to make. I picked up a large "R" from Joann's (50% off!) and then just used some old garland I had lying around.

I wrapped the garland around the "R" and used the wire already in the garland to secure it.

Then I fluffed the branches out to cover the entire "R".

I added some sparkly pine cones and some red berries to the top...then secured it on our door with some burlap. The whole project cost me only $7.

Did you put up your Christmas lights?

Don't forget to enter my Stella and Dot giveaway HERE!

Stella and Dot Giveaway!

2011-12-05T09:06:00.001-05:00

Happy Monday everyone! Since it is the season of giving I think it's time for another giveaway, don't you? And let me tell you....I am beyond excited about this one!

Stella and Dot is one of my absolute favorite jewelry companies. Every piece is extremely wearable, versatile, and not to mention beautiful! Several pieces are frequently mentioned on The Today Show, and in People Magazine, Lucky, and InStyle. I am currently working with a fabulous Stella and Dot stylist, Melissa, who is just the sweetest girl!

I love that Stella and Dot jewelry has some amazing statement pieces. Isn't this Sofia Pearl Bib Necklace to die for?

And I have a major crush on these Stackable Deco Rings. I love that you can dress up a simple outfit with one or all three of these rings. I'm adding these to my Christmas wish list for sure.

I really love this La Coco Chain in gold...it would look great paired with some pearls.

The Chantilly Lace Cuff and matching Earrings would be perfect for a holiday party, don't you think? And at only $49, the earrings wouldn't break your holiday budget either.

And don't even get me started on the Bamboleo Necklace. I'm officially obsessed with this!

So what can you win? My Stella and Dot stylist, Melissa, has generously offered to give one lucky The Girl in the Red Shoes follower this beautiful Madeline Pearl Necklace, picked out just for you by yours truly! I LOVE this necklace and would wear it all the time. Melissa let me know that this necklace is really versatile and is long enough to be worn long or short (doubled). In fact, the Madeline can even be worn short so that you have four strands of the pearls up close around your neck. So basically it's like several necklaces in one! I'm officially jealous of whoever wins this piece.

Here's another view of this gorgeous necklace!

So here's how you can enter:

(please leave a comment for each thing that you do)

1. Be a follower of my blog and leave a comment letting me know your favorite item of jewelry that you currently own.

2. For an additional entry, "like" Melissa's Stella and Dot page on facebook and leave her a comment letting her know I sent you.

3. For 2 more additional entries, blog about this giveaway and leave a comment here letting me know you did.

So there are 4 chances to win!

Also, if you would like to place an order with Melissa for something fabulous for you or a loved one you have until Wednesday, December 21st to place your order. Select "Standard Shipping" and Melissa will upgrade your order so that it arrives by Christmas! The last day to ship 1 Business Day for Christmas Delivery is Thursday, December 22nd. Orders must be placed by 2:00 CST.

I'll announce the winner next week on Monday. Good luck!

It's Beginning to Look a lot Like Christmas

2011-12-01T06:26:00.001-05:00

I love decorating our house for Christmas. We start the day after Thanksgiving and it always puts me in the holiday spirit! Now if only it would motivate me to finish my Christmas shopping then we'd be in business.

Today I'm linking up with A Thoughtful Place to share my holiday vignettes! The cake plates, platter, and scale are always there...I just added some holiday cheer.

This is on display on the bookcase in our dining room. I just love these mercury glass Christmas trees that I got a few years ago at an after Christmas sale. I never pay full price for Christmas decor. My secret to building up a good supply of decorations: Target on December 26th. Everything is 50% off....make sure you go early to beat the rush. My mom and I go every year and it is always tons of fun!

This second display is in our living room. I swapped out all of our regular photos with the Christmas cards we've used each year since we've been married.

Sneak peak of our card for this year. LOVE it.

2008 card on the bottom left, 2009 in the middle, and last year on the right. I love adding to this collection. And see that reindeer on the bottom? I've had her since I was little....Wrigley thinks she's his toy so she'll probably be relocated somewhere out of his reach!

Thanks for stopping by! Make sure to check out all of the other Christmas vignettes!

It's Wednesday....that means I'm busy pinning

2011-11-30T06:00:00.001-05:00

What did we do before Pinterest? I seriously can't remember how I ever found new recipes to try, cute outfit combinations, or fun projects to re-create. Today I'm linking up with The Vintage Apple to share my favorite pins this week....and you should too!

Source: etsy.com via Julie on Pinterest

My love for pallet art knows no bounds. I really wish I was more handy.

Source: hollymathisinteriors.com via Julie on Pinterest

Monogram wreath....somebody get this for me. I'll take that light and mailbox too while we're at it.

Source: elleinterior.se via Julie on Pinterest

Okay, here is an idea for a pallet that I could actually do. Paint it white (or maybe leave it natural) and hang it on a wall. Then hang other stuff from it. Super easy.

Source: Uploaded by user via Julie on Pinterest

Bard door headboard! I'm going to have dreams about this!

Source: thedaybookblog.com via Julie on Pinterest

I've probably posted this photo before but I just love her outfit and wish I was wearing it right now!

Source: bugsandfishes.blogspot.com via Julie on Pinterest

Pom pom wrapping for Christmas presents. This had to have been created just for me.

Source: howaboutorange.blogspot.com via Julie on Pinterest

How to make the perfect snowflake....I'm trying this over the weekend!

Source: etsy.com via Julie on Pinterest

Keep Calm and Love Goldens. I think I need this print.

What are your favorite pins this week?

Thanksgiving Fun

2011-11-28T08:34:00.000-05:00

It was so hard to go back to work this morning after having four wonderful days off! I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving!

The husband and I went up to my mom's lake house for Thanksgiving and my in-laws and sister-in-law joined us too. I was too busy eating to take any photos other than of my mom's adorable country table.

And yes, those are squirrel napkin rings.

We had a great time and ate way too much yummy food. Back to the gym for us this week!

On Friday the only shopping the husband and I did was to pick out our Christmas tree! We opted for a smaller tree this year since the one we had last year was so big it fell over three times. This tree was a breeze in comparison. We also took advantage of the warm weather and put lights up on the outside of our house....and they look way better than last year! I'll be sure to share them with you once I figure out the rest of the outdoor decorations.

Also new this year? Wrigley and Henry each have their own tree!

Wrigley happily posed by his in the kitchen. Henry wasn't as agreeable.

Did you go shopping on Black Friday? I bought a few things online Thanksgiving morning but that's it. Big crowds at stores make me nervous!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T08:30:00.001-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving, from our house to yours! We have so much to be thankful for this year, including each and every one of you! Thank you for being such a blessing in our lives every day.

With love, Jon, Julie, and Wrigley

***photos by Erin Vancura Photography

I Heart Pinteresting Wednesday

2011-11-23T06:00:00.002-05:00

Happy Wednesday! Believe it or not I've been neglecting Pinterest! Can you believe it? It's just that things have been so busy lately....so I was happy to use Pinteresting Wednesday as an excuse to waste away some time pinning things I love! As usual I'm linking up with The Vintage Apple!

You can find me on Pinterest here:

Source: dearfriendrebekkaseale.blogspot.com via Julie on Pinterest

I LOVE these house portraits! Too bad the artist is not currently accepting orders thanks to her popularity on Pinterest! I would absolutely love a portrait of my house...I'll have to check her out once her shop opens back up next year.

Source: shopbop.com via Julie on Pinterest

Obsessing over this heart bracelet by Marc Jacobs. Adding it to my wish list.

Source: eabdesigns.typepad.com via Julie on Pinterest

Burlap stockings! Yes please!

Source: makeitmyown.blogspot.com via Julie on Pinterest

DIY headband holder...isn't this cute? And made from an oatmeal can!

Source: kimboscrafts.blogspot.com via Julie on Pinterest

I love this idea of framing your old house key....totally doing this if we ever move! Also, this would look perfect on a gallery wall.

Source: brianvandenbrink.photoshelter.com via Julie on Pinterest

Sigh. Barn doors for the pantry. So perfect.

Source: porterhousedesigns.com via Julie on Pinterest

And even though I am surrounded by Christmas stuff I am still looking forward to Thanksgiving and can't get enough of these adorable white pumpkins!

Source: somethingshinyblog.com via Julie on Pinterest

And I have to end with a yummy treat...chocolate chip cookie dough cake. Are you kidding me? This looks amazing!

What are your favorite pins this week?

How to Make a Gallery Wall

2011-11-22T08:35:00.000-05:00

I'm finally ready to share my gallery wall with you! It's still a work in progress, but for now I LOVE it!

First, here it is BEFORE:

Nothing really wrong with it...but I never really loved it.

I didn't like that large black frame with all the wedding photos in it...and I was sick of black frames. Our house is filled with black frames. Plus this gallery didn't really use the space properly.

So, to begin I took all of the frames down and nails out. I have been gathering frames up for a long time to use on this project. I then made a paper template to fit the size of each frame I was planning to use. I thought this would take forever but really it was surprisingly fast!

The paper templates made it is SO easy to move the "frames" around and play with the layout. I just used painters tape and experimented with different layouts until I found one that I liked. I had two goals: 1. to try to cover up all of the previously existing nails holes with a new frame so I wouldn't have to patch and re-paint and 2. to keep the "R" where it originally was. It was a pain to put up and I didn't want to mess with it again!

I also numbered each frame and then put the corresponding number on the template so that I wouldn't confuse which frame belonged where. Then, once I had decided on my layout I placed the template against the frame and used a pen to mark where the nail should go. I did each frame one by one, making sure to tape it back on the wall in the correct place. Then I simply put a nail over each mark. SO easy and it requires zero guess work and measuring!

Then I hung the frames! You can see I used some old frames mixed with some new.

Seeing this picture makes me sort of like the mix of black with white frames. The wall looked like this for several days while I tried to decide if I liked the "mix" or if I wanted to stick to my original plan and paint all of the frames white. My mom voted to keep the mix. My husband didn't care. So I figured I might as well paint everything white...it is an easy switch back to black if I change my mind down the road.

And here it is! I added two frames into the layout last minute. And I kept the "R" black...but am still on the fence about what color it should be. I kind of like it in black.

Here is the view from the kitchen entry. (please ignore my dark hallway with zero natural light)

And the view from our front door.

One of my favorite wedding photos didn't fit in the mat I purchased so I improvised by backing it in burlap!

I've always wanted to display this photo of baby Wrigley, taken by our wedding photographers the year after our wedding. And I just had to use the cat print on the top right. I purchased it after Pancake died because it looked so much like him and Henry. I'm so glad it finally has a place on our wall! And that old postcard is from Long Beach, where I grew up. It was my mom's (and so was the frame!) and I told her I really liked it so she gave it to me. She's the best.

Erin and I found that ampersand at Hobby Lobby. It was painted rusty red and had a base to stand it upright...so we talked the husband in to sawing it off for us and then we painted it white and roughed it up a bit. It can be seen in the annual photos she took of us for this gallery wall and for our Christmas cards!

I love the mix of photos and non-photos. This is just a greeting card my mom and I found that I fell in love with one day while shopping.

Top left and bottom right photos were taken by Erin and I love them! The bottom right is also backed in burlap.

I'm so happy with how it turned out. Now I want to make another one going up the stairs....eventually I'll get to it!

p.s. I'm just know noticing there are a ton of photos of Wrigley on this wall. No, we are not crazy dog people....he's just so photogenic and we don't have kids, so why not?

Breaking Dawn...and a Winner!

2011-11-21T08:29:00.000-05:00

You better believe I saw Breaking Dawn over the weekend! Did you see it? I loved it....and now I hate having to wait forever for part two. Life is so unfair. I loved Bella's wedding dress and the whole wedding in general...but didn't like how Bella basically looked like she was in pain while walking down the aisle. Come on...couldn't she at least crack a smile? And I was lame and didn't sit through the credits to watch the "extra" scene. Did anyone catch it?

Now for the winner of the Thirty-One Gifts giveaway.....

Married with a Pup!

Congratulations! Thank you to everyone who entered...and if you are new to my blog, welcome!

Chevron Pillows

2011-11-18T08:57:00.002-05:00

Happy Friday! I know I promised last week that I would share my gallery wall with you....and I'm going to soon, I promise! I'm waiting on a couple of prints to arrive so that I don't have to show you a gallery of empty frames.

Anyway, I thought today I'd show off some adorable chevron pillows that finally arrived for our guest room. I LOVE them.

I love how the pillows make the room look more polished and finished. Up next on my to-do list is adding more frames and photos above the bed. To see more of our guest bedroom makeover click HERE.

The chevron pillows are from an Etsy shop, the gray polka dot pillow was made by yours truly, and the yellow flower pillow is from Target.

And don't forget to enter my Thirty-One Gifts giveaway! Today is the last day....click HERE to enter!

What Were Wednesdays Before Pinterest?

2011-11-16T06:10:00.000-05:00

I think Pinteresting Wednesday makes Wednesdays so much better don't you? Once again I'm linking up with The Vintage Apple...and you should too!

You can find me on Pinterest here:

Source: joopjoopdesigns.tumblr.com via Julie on Pinterest

Is it too early to pin Christmas stuff? I've totally been doing it since August. Also, can I please have this little boy? He has red hair and he's grumpy...he could totally be mine.

Source: jennycookies.com via Julie on Pinterest

Love love love this party set up!

Source: etsy.com via Julie on Pinterest

Totally easy DIY and totally doing this.

Source: google.com via Julie on Pinterest

Double shower curtain...why didn't I think of that? I love this look!

Source: etsy.com via Julie on Pinterest

Drooling over this adorable pillow. WANT.

Source: spacey-lacy.blogspot.com via Julie on Pinterest

Another simple DIY using painter's tape and, well, paint on a canvas. Easy!

Source: everythinglovely.tumblr.com via Julie on Pinterest

Can I have this amazing outfit? Pretty please?

Source: bakedperfection.com via Julie on Pinterest

One can never pin too many s'more recipes. This one looks delicious! I'm totally obsessed with s'mores. They are my new favorite thing.

What are your favorite pins this week?

this that and the other

2011-11-15T09:23:00.000-05:00

I'm guest posting today about my Christmas wish list over at Simply Sarah. Please stop by to see what I'm wishing for this season...and leave Sarah (and me!) some love!

This weekend was pretty low key. I totally busted out my Stella and Dot necklace that I won from a giveaway at Nom and Home! I love big chunky necklaces!

I also convinced the husband to buy me the final Harry Potter movie. So sad that it is all over.

That's dedication my friends!

We spent the rest of the weekend raking leaves and snuggling up on the couch eating my favorite sausage tortellini soup. Recipe from my friend Jen, here.

I hope you had a great weekend! Don't forget to enter my giveaway HERE!

Thirty-One Gifts Giveaway!

2011-11-14T08:46:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday! Let's start this week off right with a giveaway, shall we?

I've met some amazing friends through blogging. It's awesome to be able to use this blog as a way to meet fabulous people from across the country....and Jackie is one of those people! Jackie and I have an e-mail friendship and she is just the sweetest girl! She has generously offered to sponsor a giveaway this week and I'm so excited!

Jackie is a consultant for Thirty-One Gifts...a super cute company that makes adorable organizational totes, purses, wallets, cosmetic bags, baskets and so many other fun household items.

The best part is not only does Thirty-One offer some really cute prints but you also get to have them monogrammed. And anyone who knows me knows I'm a sucker for a cute monogram!

This would make an awesome Christmas gift, don't you think?

I've had my eye on this organizational tote for awhile now! Stripes? Organization? And a monogram? Yes please!

The giveaway: One lucky The Girl in the Red Shoes follower will win a thermal lunch tote in the print and monogram of their choice! Here's what Jackie has to say about the thermal lunch tote: it has an exterior pocket, silver thermal lining, and zipper closure. It is approximately 9.5 in H x 14 in W x 4.5 in D.....perfect for school lunches, day trips, and sporting events! Hot items stay hot and cold items stay cold for 8 hours.

I'm officially jealous of the winner!

So, here's how to enter:

1. Follow my blog and leave a comment! It's that easy!

2. For a second entry check out Jackie's Thirty-One Gifts website and come back here and leave a comment letting me know your favorite item.

You have until Friday, November 18th to enter. The winner will be announced on Monday.

Good luck!

It's Back....

2011-11-11T08:30:00.000-05:00

Happy 11-11-11 everyone! (Doesn't it feel weird to write that?) And happy Veteran's Day too!

Look what we woke up to this morning....

Snow! If only it would stay that way and not become a huge mess. Don't get me wrong...I love snow....but only when it snows just enough to cover all the trees and make everything pretty...and not when it snows so badly it's dangerous to drive. I hate that kind of snow (well, technically I hate ice, not snow). I'm not really ready to say good bye to fall either. Our lawn is covered in leaves and it just doesn't seem right to bury them in snow!

I hope you have a wonderful weekend...and stay warm!

Awkward and Awesome Thursday

2011-11-10T08:44:00.000-05:00

It's time for Awkward and Awesome Thursday with Sydney from The Daybook. Because life tends to be awkward...yet awesome.

Awkward

1. I'm pretty sure that Wrigley considers this moment awkward. But for me and Erin, it was awesome. (photo by Erin Vancura)

2. Nothing can really top putting your puppy in a pair of rain boots, can it?

Awesome
1. The husband taking me out for a burger and fries after I almost burned down the house trying to make a lasagna for dinner. There may have also been a milkshake involved in our night out. It was delicious.

2. My gallery wall is up....can't wait to show it to you!

3. Erin sent a sneak peek of our annual photo shoot. OBSESSED.

Our Favorite Day....Pinteresting Wednesday

2011-11-09T06:05:00.000-05:00

It's Wednesday which means I'm linking up with The Vintage Apple for Pinteresting Wednesday and you should too!

Source: imaginativebloom.com via Julie on Pinterest

I love these DIY bow bracelets! I feel a new project coming on!

Source: tipjunkie.com via Julie on Pinterest

I know this is for Christmas, but I LOVE everything about this staircase. I love the empty white frames.....definitely need to do this in my house!

Source: millaysintexas.blogspot.com via Julie on Pinterest

Burlap covered bin made from a cardboard box. Why didn't I think of that?

Source: thevirginiabelle.tumblr.com via Julie on Pinterest

Love this outfit. The hunt for cute leopard flats continues.

Source: potterybarn.com via Julie on Pinterest

Aren't these lights amazing? I would love to have these in my entry way and kitchen. Pinterest makes me want a lot of things.

Source: thekitchn.com via Julie on Pinterest

DIY kitchen side table from Ikea. Genius!

Source: Uploaded by user via Julie on Pinterest

This is so true! I love to go to Target...it relaxes me.

What are your favorite pins this week?

Baby Girl Crafting Extravaganza

2011-11-08T08:30:00.005-05:00

Since my best friend Erin is pregnant with a baby girl we decided that during her visit we needed to get our craft on. And boy did we ever.

First up was baby clothes dividers for the closet. These are used to separate baby Lexi's clothes according to size (0-3 months, 3-6 months etc.) Probably completely unnecessary but beyond cute regardless.

You'll need yarn, wooden O's (Joann's Fabric) ribbon, and hot glue. Simply wrap the O's with the yarn...be sure to do two layers so that they are fully covered. Secure with glue and add a bow! So simple!

Pin It

Next we made the cutest flower headbands. I think I might need to make a few of these for myself. Lexi is going to be one stylish baby!

LOVE how they turned out! For directions on how we made these check out my blog post HERE.

This one was our favorite. It turned out SO perfect!

All of these photos were taken by Erin....totally can't claim her awesome photography skills as my own!

We also made some adorable hair bows with this pretty ribbon. We made some of the bows clip ons so that they can be pinned on to a onezie. LOVE!

And of course some fabric flowers for onezies too.

Oh the Weekend....

2011-11-07T10:11:00.000-05:00

The weekend went by way too fast. I had the best time with Erin visiting! I wish she lived around the corner from me like in college....instead she's a plane ride away and it makes me sad. So we had to squeeze all of our fun into just a few days. You know what's great about having a best friend visit? You don't have to try hard or impress anyone. You can spend the day in your comfy pants eating pizza watching a Twilight movie marathon free of judgement. And that is exactly what we did. We also managed to make a ton of baby headbands and onezies for her baby girl that is due in March!

We couldn't resist doing a little baby clothes shopping too! It was the perfect weekend.

The husband, Erin, and I shared this amazing s'more cheesecake one night at dinner. There are no words to describe how awesome it was....must figure out how to re-create this asap!

Erin also took our Christmas card photos....and I can't wait to see them! Thanks for visiting me E! Baby Lexi is going to be the best accessorized baby in town!

Christmas Card Lovin'

2011-11-04T08:42:00.000-04:00

Now that it's November it's time to start thinking about our Christmas card! I LOVE sending and receiving Christmas cards. I love to see what everyone is up to, how their kids have grown, or lives have changed over the year. And I always keep the cards we receive. I'm thinking about making photo books out of them so that we can display cards from each year!

Here is our Christmas card from last year with the lovely photo taken by Erin Vancura. I think it's my all-time favorite. Last year we ordered through Shutterfly's blogger promotion and I couldn't be happier....we got our cards for free! This year I'm having trouble picking out a favorite Christmas photo card.

This one is beyond adorable! I love the chevron print and bright colors.

I love this one too!

How cute is this Holiday card?

Maybe Wrigley should send his own card out this year!

Shutterfly has adorable thank you cards too....I love stationary, don't you? I can never have enough thank you cards!

There are so many options....I haven't picked out our card yet but you can bet once I do I will share it with all of you!

Are you sending Christmas cards this year?

Awkward and Awesome Thursday

2011-11-03T08:45:00.000-04:00

I'm linking up with The Daybook for Awesome and Awkward Thursday. Have you read Sydney's blog? You should...she is all kinds of adorable. And just had a baby!

Awkward
1. Nice neighbors who want to chat with me while I'm walking Wrigley at 6am....in my pj's....with no makeup on. Why does this always happen to me?

2. Checking out a book probably better suited for a teenage girl at the library. And having a pay a 15 cent fine for turning in my other teenage girl book late.

3. Dark green nail polish. It doesn't look good...trust me.

Awesome

1. The husband and I were picked for the Nielson TV ratings survey and I'm beyond excited. Starting today we have to write in these diaries about the TV shows we watch. You better believe I'm taking this thing seriously!

2. ABC's new show Once Upon a Time. I sort of love it. And I'll make sure the Nielsen people know it!

3. It's finally Thursday.....which means I get to spend the weekend with this girl. So excited.

My Pinterest Obsession Continues

2011-11-02T06:08:00.000-04:00

Happy Wednesday! This week is flying by. Today I'm linking up with The Vintage Apple for Pinteresting Wednesday. You know you want to too!

You can find me on Pinterest here:

Source: valeriefoxphotography.com via Julie on Pinterest

I blame Pinterest for my love affair with all things burlap. And easy to make fabric flowers. I'm totally doing this. I promise.

Source: shannonberrey.com via Julie on Pinterest

Monogram lamp shade! Get out! This would be so cute in a kid's room!

Source: etsy.com via Julie on Pinterest

Add a pearl to your bobby pins for a sophisticated look. Why didn't I think of that?

Source: bhg.com via Julie on Pinterest

I know I already made a fall wreath but now I think I need a Thanksgiving wreath too. Love this idea!

Source: sasinteriors.net via Julie on Pinterest

Such a cute idea....I'll probably never do it...but still cute.

Source: brunchatsaks.blogspot.com via Julie on Pinterest

Kitchen love. I'm SO jealous of this person. My ideal kitchen would look like this...but minus the back splash....not a fan.

Source: Uploaded by user via Julie on Pinterest

I'm showing this to Wrigley the next time he decides to take a dog down ninja style at the dog park.

Source: foodformyfamily.com via Julie on Pinterest

Homemade potato ships with avocado ranch dressing. Seriously? I need this now!

What are your favorite pins this week?

Hiding Out

2011-11-01T09:26:00.000-04:00

We spent last night hiding from trick-or-treaters. It figures that the one year we don't have any candy is the year we get a ton of kiddos wondering around our neighborhood. So we turned off the lights and hid out in the back of the house. Wrigley was NOT a fan of that plan.

Did you go trick-or-treating?

Books and Movies...and Some Winners!

2011-10-31T08:44:00.001-04:00

Happy Monday everyone! Here's something you might not know about me: I'm a total homebody. I love to spend weekends at home cleaning the house, baking, and snuggling up on the couch watching movies....and that is exactly what we did! I had a crazy busy week at work and just needed some down time. We also spent the weekend NOT dressing up for Halloween...and secretly liked it. Don't judge.

I finished Divergent by Veronica Roth. It was amazing! I absolutely LOVED this book! If you liked The Hunger Games you will love Divergent. The only bad part is that now I have to wait for book 2 to be released some time next year. I hate waiting! I should never read a book series unless all of the books are already published...I'm terribly impatient. But seriously, go read this book!

We rented Captain America and thought it was sort of dumb and over done.

On a whim we also rented Zookeeper. The husband and I agreed we couldn't bear to watch yet another Pirates of the Caribbean movie...which seemed to be the more popular choice around these parts. I fell asleep halfway though this, but what I saw wasn't all that bad! I'm a sucker for animal movies.

And last but not least I rented Beauty and the Beast. I've had the soundtrack songs in my head for over a month and just had to watch it again. And the husband actually watched it with me. You seriously can't go wrong with a Disney classic!

So, now for some winners! Thank you to everyone who entered my Scentsy giveaway!

The grand prize winner of a Plug-in Warmer and Scent Bar of her choice is Jackie Sue from

Carolina Queen!

The three winners of a Scent Circle for their car are:

Ashley from In This Beautiful Life

Samantha from Where I Hang My Hat

Sunni Dae from Pearls and Curls

Congratulations ladies!

Awkward and Awesome Thursday

2011-10-27T08:35:00.003-04:00

Today I'm linking up with The Daybook for Awkward and Awesome Thursday!

Awkward

1. Limping around this morning in my high heels thanks to agreeing to do the "insanity" workout with the husband last night. I just realized that some people might interpret that the wrong way...it's an actual work out dvd. Geesh, keep your mind out of the gutter! Oh my word. "Insanity" is exactly the word I would use to describe it. Never again.

2. The husband catching me making s'mores in the microwave...twice.

3. Making conversation with the dog park people. Even though I've seen them on a regular basis for two years I still only know the dog's names. Awkward.

Awesome

1. This girl found out she's expecting a baby girl! And she's coming to visit me next week. Can you say baby girl crafting extravaganza?!?!

2. Candy corn pumpkins. Can't get enough.

3. The Scentsy giveaway on my blog right now! Make sure you enter!

4. Wrigley and his best buddy Rye cuddled up in my car on the way home from the dog park. There is nothing sweeter than happy and tired puppies.

Thanks for stopping by!

Pinteresting Wednesday

2011-10-26T06:54:00.001-04:00

It's no secret that I love Pinterest big time. I have to limit myself otherwise I could pin all day! Today I'm linking up with The Vintage Apple for Pinteresting Wednesday...and you should too! You can find me on Pinterest by clicking that pretty red button!

Source: sewdangcutecrafts.com via Julie on Pinterest

I can't get enough of these cute white pumpkins! I'm planning on buying a plastic one once they go on sale and then spray painting it white so that I have it for next year. And I'm adding burlap flowers to it too!

Source: kristanlynn.com via Julie on Pinterest

Burlap pumpkins!!! I'm in love!

Source: greigedesign.blogspot.com via Julie on Pinterest

I'm also in love with this living room. Actually, I'll take the kitchen too while we're at it too.

Source: redberrybarn.blogspot.com via Julie on Pinterest

Love this DIY mason jar lamp! I need this, don't you think?

Source: anthropologie.com via Julie on Pinterest

I think I can totally make this necklace. Adding it to my long list of stuff I'll probably never make.

Source: thisoldhouse.com via Julie on Pinterest

I love this idea of turning cabinets into a console. Must keep that in mind for future projects!

Source: theglitterguide.tumblr.com via Julie on Pinterest

Spray paint glitter on to sticks. Brilliant.

Source: None via Julie on Pinterest

Snicker cheesecake cookies? Yes please! I'm hungry!

What are your favorite pins this week?

A Scentsy Giveaway!

2011-10-25T08:30:00.001-04:00

I am SO excited about this giveaway! Something that is cute AND makes your home smell divine? Yes please! Have you heard of Scentsy? Scentsy Wickless Candles are ceramic warmers that are a safe, decorative alternative to a candle. There's no flame, no smoke and no lead – so that means no worries for you! They are safe around kids and pets, and are safe to use in your home, classroom, office, or anywhere!

How are they so safe? According to Rachel, my Scentsy consultant, the ceramic warmers use a low watt light bulb that melts specially formulated Scentsy wax, creating a long lasting aroma that fills any room.

There are so many beautiful warmers to choose from and they come in a variety of sizes ranging from plug-ins, which are perfect for bathrooms and laundry rooms all the way to full-size warmers, which are perfect for any size room. And with over 80 scents, you are sure to fall in love with several!

Some of my favorites are Baked Apple Pie, Black Raspberry Vanilla, Sunkissed Citrus, Eskimo Kiss, and Cinnamon Bear. Some of these scents sound good enough to eat!

Rachel was kind enough to send me a plug-in warmer and needless to say I am obsessed with it! She sent me the scent Home Sweet Home and it is amazing. My whole house smells so so good! And it's so pretty when it lights up! I can't wait to try some new scents!

So, want to win something fabulous from Scentsy?

One The Girl in the Red Shoes reader will win a plug-in warmer and a scent bar of their choice! But wait, it gets better! Three readers will win a Scent Circle (for the car) of their choice.That's four winners!

In order to win you must be a follower of The Girl in the Red Shoes.

There are three different ways to win:

1. Visit Rachel's website and come back here and leave a comment letting me know which warmer and scent you would love to win.

2. For a second entry, like Rachel's Scentsy page on facebook and come back and leave me a comment saying you did so.

3. For third entry, blog about this giveaway and leave a comment letting me know you did so.

This giveaway will run though Sunday, October 30th. I'll announce the winners on Halloween! Good luck!

Merry Go Round

2011-10-24T08:30:00.001-04:00

Happy Monday everyone! As usual, the weekend went by way too fast. We spent the weekend enjoying the beautiful fall weather and doing fun stuff like cleaning out the garage. Just kidding....that was NOT fun. We also attended semi-formal "dance" put on by the student group that I advise at work. It was at a museum and there was a carousel. Naturally I wanted to spend all night riding on it!

Me on the pony. I rode side saddle. Because I am a lady. And because I had a short dress on.

Pretty merry go round.

The husband was a good sport about attending an event where he didn't know a single person...but he did NOT want his picture taken on the carousel. I took one anyway.

He did happily pose on this old fashioned bike when no one was looking.

The museum was really fun and we had a great time!

On Sunday my grandma and her new husband, Ken, came out to visit. They live in California and Washington and were traveling around the country saying hi to family and friends. It was the first time we got to met Ken....and he is a great match to my high energy grandma!

I hope you had a great weekend!

I Heart Pinterest

2011-10-19T07:00:00.005-04:00

I heart Pinterest. Big time. But I also hate it. I now have it to thank for my endless "project to do" list. There are just so many cute ideas, I can't get over it! I'm linking up with The Vintage Apple for Pinteresting Wednesday....and you should too!

Source: jennibowlinstudioinspiration.blogspot.com via Julie on Pinterest

Scrapbook paper alphabet. Wouldn't this be so cute in a kids room or playroom?

Source: instagr.am via Julie on Pinterest

Drooling over these chevron chairs! I need these!

Source: stylememamie.com via Julie on Pinterest

Love this striped outfit! But basically I love anything with stripes and boots!

Source: iheartorganizing.blogspot.com via Julie on Pinterest

How to paint your cabinets. I'm totally using this to persuade the husband into letting me paint my kitchen cabs white. I want to do it SO badly!

Source: None via Julie on Pinterest

LOVE this wreath....Maybe I'll make a Christmas version?

Source: inbetweenlaundry.blogspot.com via Julie on Pinterest

Crate side table....totally doing this.

Source: tipjunkie.com via Julie on Pinterest

Individual s'more bites. Um, yes please! We love s'mores in this house!

What are your favorite pins this week?

I'm also linking up with Flip Flops & Pearls!

Finally Some Fall Decor....

2011-10-17T08:30:00.000-04:00

So I finally got around to decorating my house for fall...and first up was a new wreath. My old wreath had been on our door for a year (yikes!) so it was definitely time to switch things up a bit.

And here it is! I love how it turned out. And the best part is that it was really simple to make.

First you'll need to gather your supplies: a wreath (already had), wooden initial from Hobby Lobby, green moss, and burlap. I added a little pumpkin to mine that I found at Hobby Lobby for $1.50. Total spent on this project: $5.

First, paint your initial. I just used some old white paint I had left over from this project. Then, start to glue your moss on to the wreath. Glue big sections at a time...it doesn't have to be perfect, you can always fill in any holes later. Here is where things got a little messy. Moss can "shed" a lot. I recommend doing this outside if possible. I obviously didn't listen to my own advice.

Once your moss is set, secure your initial to the top of the wreath with a strip of burlap. My burlap wasn't long enough to tie into a cute bow, so I just faked it by gluing a bow to the top. Then secure your pumpkin with glue....or don't...it's cute without it too!

I decided to cover my wreath hanger with burlap too. LOVE it!

My fall front door complete with a white pumpkin (thanks mom!) Looks like I am a little obsessed with the letter "R"!

I also had to spruce up our dining room table with a little fall love too! I used the table runner I made in this post.

This is my favorite time of year! Have you decorated for fall?

Awkward and Awesome Thursday

2011-10-13T07:40:00.000-04:00

Today I'm linking up with Sydney at The Daybook for Awkward and Awesome Thursday....and you should too!

Awkward
1. Handing over a bag of my dog's poo to the vet. In a brown bag. With his name on it. No, it's not his lunch bag.....
2. Having to wonder why most of my awkward moments revolve around poo.
3. Forgetting to change out of my "staining the deck" clothes before running errands. Why yes, that is paint all over my pants and shirt....classy.
4. Finding the above mentioned paint/stain in my hair 4 days latter.

Awesome
1. Crisp, cool fall-like weather...and leaves everywhere! This is my favorite time of year.
2. Halloween Oreos. Enough said.
3. Adding The New Girl and Hart of Dixie to my list of new favorite TV shows.

Pinterest Love

2011-10-12T07:00:00.000-04:00

Happy Wednesday! Today I'm linking up with The Vintage Apple for Pinteresting Wednesday. Haven't joined Pinterest yet? What are you waiting for! Pinterest is a great place to pin ideas for crafts, meals, outfits...you name it! But be warned...it's seriously addicting! If you need an invite to join Pinterest send me an e-mail and I'll hook you up.

Source: tatertotsandjello.com via Julie on Pinterest

I'm seriously in love with these chevron mod podge pumpkins. They are beyond adorable!

Source: dear-martha.com via Julie on Pinterest

Love this tutorial for a concrete letter for your garden. I'll probably never get around to making this...but I still love it!

Source: shabbynest.blogspot.com via Julie on Pinterest

Ahhhh...ruffle curtain. LOVE!

Source: sweetmintstudios.com via Julie on Pinterest

This is one of those, why didn't I think of that pins. Cover old serving trays in chalkboard paint...genius.

Source: pinterest.com via Julie on Pinterest

Adorable...print straight on to burlap.

Source: thedaybookblog.com via Julie on Pinterest

Sydney from the Daybook...she always looks cute!

Source: None via Julie on Pinterest

Love this outfit for fall!

Source: tumblr.com via Julie on Pinterest

Cookie dough pizza....oh my word. Yes please!

What are your favorite pins this week?

Never Again

2011-10-11T08:30:00.001-04:00

I've discovered a new form of torture. It's called staining your deck. After working on it on and off for a few months it's finally done. Oh my word. Never again!

I probably logged in about 10 hours on this project....the husband probably closer to 40. Needless to say we are so glad it's done!

Here is what the deck look liked when we first had it built.

And here it is now!

A few minutes after the husband finished up (and hours after I had already given up on this project) we got a huge gust of wind and the deck was covered in leaves. Yay for fall!

If you ever plan on staining your deck I have a few words of advice:

1. Build the kind of deck that doesn't ever need to be stained. It's expensive but I think probably worth it.
2. Hire someone to stain it for you. We are definitely doing this next time it needs to be stained.
3. If you can't do either of those, then at least make it easier on yourself and stain the deck one color. I made things way too complicated by wanting a white railing. We realized pretty early on what a huge mistake that was....but it was too late. At least it looks good?

The husband is beat but we are both thrilled to have finished this project!

Fabric Flowers and Adorable Kiddos...

2011-10-10T08:41:00.001-04:00

Happy Monday everyone! Or should I say, Happy Columbus Day? The husband has today off so I took it off too. Only fair, right?

Over the weekend I got to visit my friend Kate and her two adorable little ones. Kate and I went to high school together in California and now we've both ended up out here in Michigan.

Baby Finn. Isn't he just precious? He was so good the entire time just hanging out in his swing.

And big sister Dakota. I made her some headbands and she wanted to wear them all at the same time. She had two on her head and one around her neck....love this little girl!

Want to make an adorable headband? Over the past few weeks I've been making fabric flowers like crazy. They are really easy to make and turn out adorable.

First roll out your fabric and cut a 1 and 1/2 inch strip. It doesn't have to be perfect.

Then tie one end in a knot. Glue the small end to the knot. You can use fabric glue for this....but I used hot glue because that's what I had on hand.

From there start wrapping the fabric around the knot to form a flower. Secure it with glue every inch or so.

And just keep going. I found it looks best if you twist the fabric here and there so you can see the underside.

Once you are done glue the last inch or so of fabric to the back of the flower.

I got a little carried away and made a ton!

To make a headband you'll need pretty elastic. I was able to find mine at a local fabric shop. I also found some white elastic at Joann's Fabric.

I made one of these for myself too! I didn't get a chance to take photos of this kind of flower but it's really easy. Just cut a bunch of 2 inch circles out of your fabric. Use one of them as a base for your flower. Then take your circles and fold them in half. Then fold them in half again and secure with a little glue. Then place a drop of glue on the point of your flower and glue it to the base. Keep doing this over and over until your flower is full. Remember, it doesn't have to be perfect to be beautiful!

Anniversary Fun

2011-10-06T08:15:00.001-04:00

Thank you for all of your sweet anniversary messages yesterday! We had a great, low-key, evening together. We went out for a dinner...it was so nice not to have to cook! After dinner we watched some TV, walked the dog, and then went out for ice cream.

Yum. And yes, I had already changed into my comfy clothes. Just keepin' it real!

The husband loves his ice cream too.

The husband surprised me by having these personalized blocks made by the fabulous ladies at Embellished Living.....love them!

And some personalized coasters. I'm a sucker for anything monogrammed so I was really excited!

For a special treat I made these red velvet cheesecake brownies. And oh my word. They are good!

3 Years Ago Today....

2011-10-05T08:00:00.070-04:00

10.5.08. Hands down, best day of my life.

On my own I'm only

Half of what I could be
I can't do without you
We are stitched together

And what love has tethered

I pray we never undo

God gave me you for the ups and downs
God gave me you for the days of doubt

For when I think I've lost my way

There are no words here left to say, it's true

God gave me you

("God Gave Me You" by Blake Shelton)