My Crazy Beautiful Life....

Computer issues...

2012-01-31T18:32:00.001-05:00

What are you going to do when everything you do is on the computer???

All your blogging information is on your computer...All your photos...EVERYTHING!!!

Then your computer fills up all it's memory and then you can't do ANYTHING...It's frozen because there is not enough memory for it to do ANYTHING!!!

I'm stuck...I'm unable to blog...Check my e-mail...Read blogs...work on my journaling...

I just want to cry...or just be "Garfield"...

I literally wanted to throw my laptop across the room...then I wanted to cry...OH!! Wait!!

I DID CRY!!!

Please bare with me as I take this little leave of absence until I can get my computer situation taken care of...In the meantime...PRAY FOR ME!!!

I might lose my mind being without a computer or reading blogs...or just having a life...

All MY friends live in my computer :(

Hair over the years!!!

2012-01-23T14:40:00.000-05:00

I was doing a perm last week and I began to laugh!! Customer must have thought I was 'crazy'..

(I do laugh randomly)

It got me to thinking about the last time I had a perm and let me tell you this is why I DON'T!!

(Can't believe I'm going to share this photo)

The year was 1986, I was 20 yrs old and I obviously had really crappy friends that couldn't tell me that my hair looked like $^&(...LOL

Not sure what I was even thinking!!

Just think I am a hair dresser and I use to send people out the door with hair like this...LMAO

Oh how hair has changed over the years..especially mine...Let's take look at my hair styles over the years!!!

This is where it all began in 1966..

(Rock'n the faux hawk)

In 1969 I was sporting the "Pixie"!! and thinking I was Hollywood ;-)

In 1973 it was the "Pageboy"...

You were lucky if you where not a victim of this hair-do!!!

And, all the cute bows that everyone is wearing in there hair...WELL, I've been doing that since 1980..

(Good Lord, that's awful)

You think that was bad...it doesn't get any better...

WELCOME to the 80's....

The year is 1982...the beginning of the big hair and "Frost"...

I was 16 and just started beauty school...

This is where the hair styles really go crazy...

1984 it was the "Mullet and red hair...WHAT WAS I THINKING???

(senior pic)

By 1986 the hair was darker and definitely BIGGER...It was the feathered big hair look...

How about some BIG bright yellow jewelry and pumps!!

Hey I was styling back in the day ;-)

By 1988 I was over the dark hair...Bring in the BIG blonde hair...

Nice shades, huh???

That is not blonde enough...I'm thinking platinum, bigger hair...

In 1992 that's what I got...Farrah had nothing on me...lol

(my 26th B-day)

1993 I went even blonder...

Look at them dark roots...

By 1998 I grew my hair out to my normal color and cut that dried broken hair off...

Yikes!! It was still really big on the top...

Then in 1999 it was time for the 'Shag'...and looks like I'm back at coloring my hair...

Added some highlights around my face...

Now for the Gosh Awful "Bob" haircut in 2000...

By the end of 2000 I was wearing the "Jennifer Aniston" hair-do...

Ruh Roh....

In 2001 I went all blonde again...

2002 I just walked around with the classic "Ponytails"...

It was time to grow my hair out and leave the 80's and 90's where they belonged...in the past!!

In 2004 I was going for the curly look...

(I must like this dress...look above in 2002 and I think I still have it...LOL)

2011 I just wear my hair long and straight with a "Bump" and side swept fringe (bangs)...

It's been a colorful year...

Oh so many styles over the years!!!

But, I'd like to think I've come A LONG way...

TELL ME ABOUT YOUR BAD HAIR DAYS!!!

A little organizing going on...

2012-01-16T17:52:00.000-05:00

I've been a busy bee today at mi casa lately...and it feels GREAT!!!

I'm making my way through my crazy 2012 checklist...woo hoo (happy dance)

My first trip was my purse...and you can say "WTH" with me...Not sure what was going on here and I can't even make excuses to what happened...

Yes that all fit in my purse...LOL

Don't worry I got this!!!

(along with this purse organizer I've had for years)

Much better...

It will stay like this for awhile...I hardly carry a purse ;-)

As I was putting a few things in my nightstand I realized...NOOOOOO!!!

Nothing more can go in the nightstand...See what I mean...

You know what I had to do next!! Empty the drawer and clean it OUT...

I had a couple little baskets from the dollar store to help organize this mess and they worked perfectly...Now I can actually find something in here ;-)

BEFORE & AFTER

While I was on a role organizing...One of the things I have on my list is to purge and organize the front entrance closet...I haven't touched it since we moved in this house in May...

It's not a total disaster (like my bedroom closet) but I couldn't stand it...I felt like I was fighting everything to get one thing out of it.. The rack on the door used to be in my pantry and was perfect for that space...Unfortunately, it doesn't fit in the pantry at this house so I stuck it in this closet and it turned into a crap collector...See where I threw all the baggies, kitchen foil and cling wraps!!

(Darn things fall all over the place when I open the door)

Everything else was just tossed in there and not really sure what all the coats are...We seem to wear the same ones all the time...

The only way to get started on this project is to take everything out of the closet...

I'm not putting any thought into this...If I dont' use it...say buh bye!!

Here are the coats that we are going to donate to the homeless (top pile)...and, my Columbia winter coat (bottom pile) I will store away for when I have to make a trip up North in the winter...I'm from PA and my husband is from MD so it's a good possibility I will need that coat again...It's too thick for me living in the South..

I grabbed some extra baskets I had (Thanks to my dear friend, Roberta) and used them in the closet...They worked perfectly...Especially for all those kitchen baggies and stuff...

I now have room for "NEW" coats...LOL

(You'll see what I mean in a few)

My battle getting the vacuum cleaner out of the closet has now come to an end and the hubby's shoes have a new home...

The closet now looks nice and organized the way I like it...I utilized every inch of it including the rack on the door...I used the rack for umbrella's, gloves and scarves...

BEFORE & AFTER

And, lucky me!!! Hubby bought me a new coat...LOL

(I'll be purging that closet again in no time ;-))

It has been a VERY productive day for me...Organized, Created my budget planner spreadsheet, Downloaded my photos from New Year's Eve on my personal FB page for all my friends to see, Blogged and talked to my dear friend, Roberta @ The Love Shack for 2 hours...We always have lots to say!!!

Now time for me to get dinner going, work on my life journals and I think I'll play on Pinterest...There goes my night....lol

HAVE YOU HAD A PRODUCTIVE DAY???

Show us what you got!!!

2012-01-11T20:04:00.000-05:00

Welcome to the Pick-a-Theme party!!

This weeks theme is "Show us what you got"...

Let's see what you are creating and what you are planning for 2012..

I didn't have a party last week...still trying to get myself in a grove this year...However, here are the most view creations from the last party!!!

{Domestic Imperfection}

{Clean & Scentsible}

{All I Create}

{Homemaker on a Dime}

Thanks, Ladys!!!

Make sure you grab your "Queen of the Party" button :-)

Now on to the Party.....

One Word!!!

2012-01-07T04:50:00.000-05:00

I only have one word for myself!!!

I was ready to run right into this New Year full force...All the ideas were swirling in my head and I couldn't wait to share and all of a sudden....I became...

{source}

When you are on a 10 vacation you feel like you can do anything...I was going to BLOG (at least 3-4 times a week)...PURGE my whole house (one area at a time--->daily)...I am doing a Scrapbook for Life JOURNAL (Committed - doing a class)...Making MEMORY boxes (about 16 of them)...REFINISHING some furniture...making a CRAFT room (since my office is moved - see here)

Oh yeah!!! I also go to school 40 hrs a week and have a family at home!!!

Now let's talk about the amount of time I read blogs I follow and PINTEREST!!!

(Need I say more)

{source}

I will get this under control...I always do..it's just going to take me a little time...step back and tackle one thing at a time...I need to manage my time better...I feel like I'm always in a rush and one of my "goals" for the New Year was to sloowwww down!!!

Easier said then done, Right???

After today, I have 2 days off and I am going to get myself caught up and on a roll!! I mean really it's the 7th of January all ready and this is my first blog post of the year...I should of had at least 3, and not to mention I didn't have my "Pick-A-Theme" Thursday's party!!!

I'M SUCH A BAD BLOGGER!!!

NO worries....I will be on track by MONDAY!!!

(I hope)

On a better note I hope everyone is having a great New Year and is accomplishing all the goals I know that everyone set for themselves...

I do have to wish my daughter, Danyelle a "Happy 26th Birthday" today!!

Love you, Mooch!!!

TELL ME HOW YOUR NEW YEAR IS STARTING OFF!!!

Happy New Year...Bring in 2012

2011-12-31T16:50:00.000-05:00

I wasn't going to blog until after the New Year but I just couldn't help myself...That happens sometimes :-)

I wanted to wish everyone a "Happy New Year" and to ask those that are going to venture out to be safe...

I am soooo looking forward to "2012"...I have so many fun projects and ideas going on and I CAN NOT wait to share them with you all!!! I can hardly contain myself...I'm sooo excited about a few of the projects I am working on...

Let's get this show on the road and bring in the New Year!!!

I will shout and party for all of you (kidding we are just going to go hang at a friends house) It's our crazy karaoke friends...If there is too much drinking...WE crash at there house!!

(Church tomorrow might be rough going)

Are you ready for the New Year???

I know I am!!

This is what I told my hubby....(I'll let you know if he does ;-))

Good-Bye 2011...I can't really say I will miss you too much...

You provided me with some very trying times!!

I'm not making New Year's "Resolutions" but I am making New Year's "Goals" along with some promises to myself...I want to create a life where I stand on my own two feet, I jump on my impulses, and I laugh heartily, dress up every day, and view life as a party when I wake up instead of dreading the day!!!

How about you?? Any Resolutions or Goals??

Are you Ready for the New Year?

WHAT DO YOU HAVE PLANNED FOR 2012?

Anything 2011 Linky Party...

2011-12-28T21:33:00.000-05:00

I hope everyone had a fantastic Christmas...
I'm going to be taking a week off from blogging so I can get myself ready for a "Wonderful" New Year!!!

I have a lot of exciting new stuff to share...so I will be taking this time for my family and to get prepared for another great year of blogging...

Thanks to all of you for making my first year so "Crazy Beautiful"...

Here is last weeks "Queen of the party"...

Jenn at Clean & Scentsible did a beautiful job decorating her home for the Holidays...Hop on over and check out her beautiful home decor....

(Clean & Scentsible)

Stephanie and Cre8tive Designs created a beautiful Christmas tablescape...Make sure you skip on over and oogle over the beautiful table decor...

(Cre8tive Designs Inc)

I know I'm making this short and sweet this week but I'm blogging later than anticipated and I wanted to get this weeks linky party started early!!!

This week's theme...

"ANYTHING 2011"

Show off anything you've done in 2011...It can be any of your favorite ideas, decor, crafts, fashion...you name it...SHOW IT OFF!!!

Holiday Linky Party

2011-12-21T19:11:00.001-05:00

Welcome to "Pick-A-Theme" Thursdays...

If you've been here before "Welcome" back and if you are new then don't be a stranger...jump on in and join the party...We don't bite...I promise!!

Now on to last weeks "QUEENS of the Party"!!

Don't forget to grab your button on the left side and display it proudly ;-)

Hop on over and visit Aimee @ It's Over Flowing and check out her fabulous Christmas Tree...

{It's over flowing}

Then skip on over and see Gina @ East Coast Mommy and see what her "Elf on the Shelf" is up to!

{East Coast Mommy}

While your at it stop on over and see Rica @ La "Rica" Vida and tell her how cute her wreath is!!

{La Rica Vida}

But, Before you go (or atleast come back) link up to this week's party...

"ANYTHING HOLIDAY"

**NOTE: Don't be a party pooper...Please grab my button and link back to the party!!

(oh yeah!! You can join my blog so you can have a front row seat to all the parties)

Really I am very friendly!!!

Now let's PARTY!!!

(I'm even starting early this week)

Beginning to look alot like Christmas!!!

2011-12-19T07:45:00.000-05:00

It's a WEEK until Christmas and I am NO where near ready!!!

If I could just have a remote control for life I would have to hit that rewind button...But, needless to say I did get a little decorating done with the help of my hubby...Actually he pulled everything out and I had no choice but to decorate...LOL

Since we downsized this year I didn't put a lot of decorations out...It's that claustrophobic thing!!

Some come on in to my home!!

I live in the south and it really wasn't snowing...Love Picasa ;-)

My problem was finding a spot for the tree in our cozy lil home...and after much deliberating (about a month) I believe this was my only option... Now I have to decorate the WHOLE Tree if it sits here...you can see it from the front entrance and the living room...

Breathe, Denyse!!! You got this!!

(Yep I talk to myself all the time and proud of it)

This involved finding a temporary home for an end table, a plant and sliding the love seat down...All this for a tree!! Stressed me out!!!

Now at this point we hope the tree fits...

Perfect!!!!

I guess it's time to get it decorated (It sat like this for 3 days) I know I know...Some days I do need a swift kick right in the back side!!

BEAUTIFUL!!

Here are a few of my favorite things..

My angel sits atop the tree watching over us!!!

The stockings are hung by the chimney with care!!

My "Willow Tree" Nativity seen (Christmas gift from hubby 2 yrs ago) is all snuggled under the tree...

Every year I try to pick up a new ornament...I got these cute lil sparklers at Kohl's for $1.49 a piece...I call that a Christmas jackpot!!!

Added some snowman cheer!!

And, it wouldn't be Christmas without "Santa"...I love my old time Santa's...Here are a few of my favorites...

My decorative holiday throw pillows and blankets...

This one sits in a rocker that my daughter who is going to be 26 sat in when she was 2...and he rocks by the fireplace!!

And, this Santa hangs by the front door and annoys the hubby...It plays Christmas music every time you walk past it...(I only annoyed him for a few hours with it than shut it off...lol)

Speaking of hubby...I bet you didn't know I was married to a DIY'er (Well neither did I)...I came home to a wreath hanging on my front door (WE DON"T HAVE A WREATH)...I was like "What the heck, you seriously went and bought a wreath...WE have no extra money"..

Well let me step back because hubby found the plain wreath with our Christmas stuff and added lights and found a bag of Christmas decor and decorated the wreath himself...

YES!! I was literally speechless!!

Don't mess with my hubby!!!

(makes me laugh every time I look at it)

We went from this to this!!

Remember, if Christmas isn't found in your heart, you won't find it under a tree."
~ Charlotte Carpenter.

I hoped you enjoyed the tour into my home!!

From "Our Family" to "Yours"

"Merry Christmas" and "Happy New Year"

It's a Party Directory!!

2011-12-19T06:32:00.000-05:00

Mingling Monday's

Talk about it Tuesday's

Wow Wednesday's

Terrific Thursday's

Fabulous Friday's

Share it Saturday's

Showcase Sunday's

10 Days til Christmas Linky Party

2011-12-14T21:38:00.005-05:00

Time is flyyyyingggg........

I can not believe it will be Christmas in 10 days...Where did the time go??? I don't know about you but I am no where near ready...I just put up my tree tonight (pics later)...I really do need to start managing my time better...(sounds like a New Year resolution to me....LOL) <<--- NOT!!!

If you haven't had a chance to visit all the great partiers that linked up last week...then you need to do so here...There are so many great ideas and lots of beautiful holiday decor!!!

Here are this week's Queen's of the party...

So, Please grab your button and display it proudly on your blog...You deserve it!!

If you are looking for table decor...Kathe @ Kathe with an E has shared some serious table extraordinaire over at her blog...These tables are full of so much creativity!!!

Kathe with an E

Hop on over and check out these tables and tell Kathe "hello" while you are there!!!

When I was a little girl (long time ago) my parents had a white tree that would leave white stuff all over the place...I have not seen one of these trees in years...Cheree @ The Morning Latte found one...The tree itself is green but it has the look of snow all over the tree...I didn't even know they still made flocked trees anymore...Cheree did a beautiful job decorating it and she's a girl that can't pass up a good deal!!!

The Morning Latte

Hop on over and check out Cheree's tree and other homemade gifts she's made...and while you are there drop her a note and let her know you stopped by!!!

Say "Hi" for me while you are there ;-)

We all love crafts and we all love to decorate...Right???

These snowmen are just about the cutest holiday craft, ever!!! They are perfect for your entrance and Kaysi @ Keeping it Simple did a fabulous job making these...

Keeping it Simple

You should see the other one she made...I know you are going to go check it out...So, while your are there tell Kaysi "Hi"....

We've all seen a Charlie Brown tree...I just love them!! I'm going to make one someday...And, I want it to be as cute as the one that the sisters @ DNA Design created...

Can you say "Adorable"...

DNA Design

Hop on over and tell them how cute their Charlie Brown tree is!!! You can even tell them I'm oogling over their tree ;-)

Now that time is flying right past us let's get this party started...Remember, We only have 10 days til Christmas...So what have you been up to???

18 Days til Christmas Linky Party

2011-12-07T20:42:00.004-05:00

Wow....Wow and WOW!!!

This is all I can say about all the wonderful following partiers I have out there in blog land...You guys ROCK!! You, once again made my "Pick-A-Theme" Thursdays linky party a success...My hopes are that the parties just get bigger and BIGGER!!!

So, to all of you that join every week "Thank You"...and hopefully everyone grabbed a button to feature on their blog...feel free to invite some friends...we don't like to be left out of a good party now do we??? :)

There were so many great Holiday ideas that were posted...I wish I could feature everyone....And, since I don't like to leave anyone out...I'm going to be adding a new button for those that don't make "QUEEN" of the party...if your not Queen you are the "PRINCESS of the party"... (applauding everyone)

So, Please grab your button and display it proudly on your blog...You deserve it!!

Now let's get to the Queen's of the party!!!

If you have not visited "Keeping the Christmas Spirt Alive 365" - You Must!!!

Look at this yummy Ginger Bread house...She has featured several of them...I wanted to post them all...but instead I thought I would give you a sneak peak and then you can hop on over and see what Natasha is up to and tell her Denyse @ Crazy Beautiful Life sentcha!!!

Keeping the Chrismas Spirit Alive 365

These wooden tree stocking holders are just adorable...Who would of thought to make stocking holders out of wooden post caps??? Alecia @ Chicken Scratch is the brilliance behind this great craft idea...

Make sure you hop on over and check out the tutorial on this great project...Tell Alecia that

Denyse @ Crazy Beautiful Life sentcha!!

Chicken Scratch

Ash and Nat from Craftying Cousins linked up this week and shared with all of us these cute book ornaments...I just get amazed at some of the wonderful things that people come up with...These are just too cute and can be used in so many ways to decorate your home for the Holidays...

When you get a chance you really need to go visit them (I get excited to share such creativity) and tell them

Denyse @ Crazy Beautiful Life sentcha!!!

Crafting Cousins Book Ornaments

Cinthya @ Eye Heart used an annual report magazine to create the amazing paper wreath...Now that's the way to recycle!! Woo Hoo

I'm sure Cinthya would love to hear from you so hop on over and tell her...

Well You know what to tell her...LOL

Eye Heart Paper Wreath

I just "Crazy" love these craft projects and hope you got some really good ideas as well...and if you haven't had a chance to check out all the great link-ups that joined the party last week..you can still check them out at the "25 Days of Christmas" linky party!!!

Now let's get this weeks party started...

Don't forget to grab the party button and bring some friends...

Let's PARTY!!!

Dining Room to Office

2011-12-04T18:10:00.001-05:00

If you follow me then you know I have struggled with leaving my dining room alone or changing into my home office.

If you are new then you can read about it HERE.

After much consideration I have decided to GO FOR IT!!

If I waited for the perfect time…It would never get done!

If I waited for new furniture…I would be waiting awhile!

Since I can’t afford new furniture and I do not feel comfortable staining or painting certain pieces of furniture, I am just going to make this work. My wood selection in my house is kind of like the coat of many colors, but it’s the wood of many colors here at mi casa!!!

Moving furniture around is really going o mix up the wood situation in this house. But, it’s OK! That’s what happens in “My Crazy Beautiful Life”.

So let’s start off with a tour of what it looks like now…

Dining Room

The room is full of oak furniture. (I know it's so 2000 - When I had it made)

(View from Kitchen)

(View from front Entrance)

(View from the living room)

KITCHEN

The furniture is dark cherry & black. (My attempt to modernize...LOL)

(View from the living room)

(View from front entrance)

Now that you have seen the two rooms I will be moving around...Let's go grab a desk and see how it looks...

I think this may work...What's the worst that could happen??? I rearrange the house and my hubby has to put it all back the way it was...LOL...Like that has not happened before ;-)

Don't you just love my desk chair? I sold my leather one because it was just too uncomfortable to sit on and the wheels didn't roll on the carpet (I don't like the mats under my chair) and besides I have the perfect chair in mind...

Something like this...

Now, Let's see what my dining room set looks like in the kitchen...

Not bad!!!

(Don't love it, YET!)

I can keep it small and still have enough room for 3 leafs and 6 chairs for entertaining...

After a long day of moving furniture around and getting things where I want them...This is what I have come up with...I can add the finishing touches later...I just wanted to get the furniture in place...

Here's the "Dining Room" turned "Office"...

What do you think???

~Like it or Love it~

Now, let's take a final look at the kitchen...

Like it or Love it???

How about some Before & After...We all Love them!!!

Are you wondering what I did with the table that was in the kitchen??? Or are you wondering what I did with the wall units that were in the dining room??? Or how about the room that was the home office???

Here's a sneak peak of the new disaster zone!!!

I hope you enjoyed my home rearranging tour!! I will update as I continue to "TWEAK" each room!!

I would love to hear your thoughts.

TELL ME ABOUT A HOME ROOM RE-DO YOU HAVE DONE OR THOUGHT ABOUT!

25 Days of Christmas Linky Party

2011-11-30T22:43:00.001-05:00

Welcome to "Pick-A-Theme" Thursday Linky Party!!!

This weeks theme is....

25 Days of Christmas

Show us all your crafts, decor, gifts and anything that you are doing to get ready for Christmas...

Remember... We only have 25 Days!!!!

I would like to give a BIG "THANKS" to all that linked up to the "Anything Goes" party last week...

You guys ROCK!!!!

This weeks Linky Queen is MY from SPACE 46

She created this adorable snowflake banner...CRAZY love it!!

Don't you???

Space 46

When you get a chance hop on over to her fabulous blog and tell her

Denyse @ Crazy Beautiful Life sent you.... ;-)

Now let's get the party started...

Don't forget to grab the party button and bring some friends...

Let's PARTY!!!

Anything Goes Linky Party...

2011-11-27T08:00:00.003-05:00

My linky parties are suppose to be on Thursdays...Darn Holiday got in my way...or my days are way off...

I vote my days are off ;-)

Last weeks linky Queen...

This beautiful table setting from Fabiana over at Ciao Newport Beach ...

Ciao Newport Beach

When you get a chance hop on over to here fabulous blog and tell her
Denyse @ Crazy Beautiful Life sent you.... ;-)

So now to get me back on track I'm having the

"PICK-A-THEME THURSDAY"

linky party today and then I will be on track for next week (let's hope)

This weeks theme "ANYTHING GOES" link up what you got!!!

Just one small request follow the short list of rules and add my "Pick-A-Theme Thursday" button somewhere on your blog...The more that party the more fun we have!!!

HAPPY LINKING :-)

I Am Thankful For...

2011-11-24T18:33:00.000-05:00

Thanksgiving is a time for us to forget all the frustration and disappointments in our world… It is our time to think of family and loved ones….It is a time to reflect on the things we are thankful for…Thanksgiving is a good time to reflect on how lucky we are to have what we have in our lives…

{Source}

I am having a really bad year and it has been hard to reflect on the positive things in my live…I do try though!!! When things are rough, we tend to dwell on the entire negative and less on the positive…But, No matter how good or bad you think life is…wake up each day and be thankful for life…Someone somewhere else is fighting to survive!!!

{Source}

So, for today I am going to focus on the things…

My Husband: I am thankful for a supportive…loving and handsome husband who I can always count on to be there for me…Good times or bad!!!

My Kids: I am thankful for the joy and laughter they bring to my life…They are amazing and make my life complete!!!

My Parents: I am thankful I have two wonderful parents that have provided me with a wonderful home… and guidance throughout life… They taught me to be a strong independent person and to be thankful for what I have…

My Girlfriends: I am thankful for the friends in my life who continue to inspire me daily… I love that I am able to have get-togethers and laugh with them until our tummies hurt or someone passes out…LOL

I couldn't have said it better...LOL!!!!!

Beautiful weather: Our weather has been gorgeous here in NC with warm weather and beautiful luminous leaves…I am thankful we will continue to have amazing weather for the Thanksgiving weekend…

How can you not love the Carolina blue sky???

My Home: I am thankful to have a home that is filled with love & memories…I strive to make my home a warm place to come home to and provide a loving environment for all the family & friends that enter…

My Blogging Family: I am also thankful for my blogging family…Blogging has brought me great joy and I have met so many wonderful people...
(even if it is virtually)
I owe a “Big Thanks” to a very dear friend who got me started…
Thanks, Roberta!!!

And of course, I am thankful for the turkey I will be eating this weekend!!!

Gobble Gobble!!!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO all my LOVED ones, my friends, and their families!!! This Thanksgiving give thanks to those you hold close to your heart and remember those that are no longer with us…And, as you sit at the table this Thanksgiving remember to give thanks to the United States Military, with a special thanks to their families!!!

Many Blessings to All!!!

Myth of the Sock Curls

2011-11-21T20:12:00.001-05:00

I don't usually believe something works until I try it...or unless I know you and you have tried it...

WELL...the new hair craze is sock curls...And seeing how I love to try different things to my hair except cut it...and curling it can be a pain because it is so long...I thought I would check more into this GREAT new way to curl your hair....And look at all the beautiful pics of hair that has been supposedly curled with socks...

Aren't they beautiful??? Why wouldn't anyone with long hair NOT want to do this???

I know I do...I have really long hair...SEE...

It would look great with nice lose curls...but before I take you on my sock curls journey...here are a few of my most recent hairstyles...Not much you can do with long hair...

My new fringe (bangs)

Some Pink for Breast Cancer Month (October)

My new dark do for the winter

I'm sure you get the idea of how much I love to do my hair...

Here's the TRUTH about sock curls!!!!

They work for (plug your ears) shit!!!!

Yep!! I just cussed on my blog...but you know it's irritating when you see something that is all over the internet and all over PINTEREST...You would think it works...

Well I'm here to tell you it DOES NOT!!!

I've done the sock bun...

I've done the head band...

I've even done the sock rolls...

I can assure you that I did not get any of these...

But, I did get this and before I show you...let me warn you...

"DO NOT DO THIS WHEN YOU HAVE TO BE SOMEWHERE FIRST THING IN THE MORNING"

Are you ready???

READY

SET

LAUGH

~FAIL~

What on God's green earth am I suppose to do with this...I look like BOZO the clown and I have a 1/2 hour to do my make-up and tame this hair down...

Note to self: NEVER EVER do this again!!!

I wanted curls I sure as crap got them....and I do not have the time to wash...dry and style my hair...so I pulled out my spray bottle and sprayed water on it and just combed until the curls started to relax...

This is much better...

I learned a lesson here...

1) Do not try something new on a work/school night

2) Do not believe everything you see online

3) If it looks to good to be true it probably is

AND

4) Forget curling my hair with socks....LOL

TELL ME ABOUT SOMETHING YOU SAW ONLINE AND TRIED THAT WAS A FAIL!!

Great Pinterest Finds - LINK PARTY

2011-11-20T14:30:00.002-05:00

I'm a slacker I know...Sometimes life just gets in the way...

Let's get back to partying...

This weeks theme "GREAT PINTEREST FINDS"...

Here are a few of the great ideas I have found on Pinterest....

I love the shelf unit behind the tub and the coziness of this bathroom...

Source: kbdetails.squarespace.com via Denyse on Pinterest

Cute decor idea for a chair...

Source: bhg.com via Denyse on Pinterest

This is from my "Dream" board...Love it!!!

Source: Uploaded by user via Denyse on Pinterest

This is an adorable Fall idea for the entrance of your home....

Source: farleykids.blogspot.com via Denyse on Pinterest

Oh and the cute fashion ideas I find...I love this casual look...

Source: net-a-porter.com via Denyse on Pinterest

A great idea for the home if you have an enclosed porch... I can sooo see myself on that rocking bed...

Source: cottagerentalagency.com via Denyse on Pinterest

If your looking for a decorating idea for a foyer...Pinterest is a great place to look...
This is one of my favs...

Source: bhg.com via Denyse on Pinterest

If you like the look of Vintage here is a beautiful idea by " Centsational Girl"...

Source: centsationalgirl.com via Denyse on Pinterest

I found this adorable idea for an anniversary...If I wasn't allergic to latex I would so do this...
I still may (someone will have to get the balloons for me..LOL)

Source: sidebysideblog.blogspot.com via Denyse on Pinterest

And, How about these "HYSTERICAL" quotes you can find...
Oh I laughed so hard at this one...

Source: qsprn.com via Denyse on Pinterest

As a hairdresser I love to find different hair-dos...
Cute...Cute...Cute...

Source: beautylish.com via Denyse on Pinterest

Or how about some really cool hair colors...
This is the big style craze right now...

Source: spatrends.com via Denyse on Pinterest

These are just a few of my favorite "Pins"...I have so many more ideas I would love to have shared...If you are interested join me on My Pinterest - Click here

I've shared with you some of my favorite "Pins"...
Let's see some of yours....

PARTY ON!!!!

Next week's party..."Tis the Season"

What a Week!!!

2011-11-14T21:42:00.000-05:00

I put that "What a Week" in the nicest way possible because it was a )(&^*%^ kind of week...

I was doing really good with my 30 day challenge and before you know it life goes in a tailspin and don't know which way to turn...

What do you do when you come upon one tragedy after another...It's hard to think of anything to be "Thankful" for...But, as hard as it is to think about a thankful thing about a tragedy I've tried my best this past week...

Oh where to begin????

This is me & my sister Tina...I don't see her very often because I live in NC and she lives in PA...

Monday night she had a TIA (Transient Ischemic Attack) which in non medical terms "Mini-Stroke"...She is only 42 yrs old and has been having some health issues...earlier this year she was diagnosed with Mitochondrial Myopathy which is a Muscular Dystrophy Disease...

I am "Thankful" that she only had a mini-stroke which is a warning...I'm hoping that she will take better care of herself so we can have her around for many more years...

It's times like these I wish I still lived in Pa to be close to my family...

Nahhh...Too cold!! I have to add some humor :)

Now to meet my cousin Matthew and my Uncle Ron...

Tuesday night they were life flighted from Erie Pa to Pitts Pa due to carbon monoxide poisening...Placed on life support...Matthew only 14 yrs old passed away Thursday Evening and the Lord took My Uncle 66 yrs old on Friday Evening...

Where do you find any "Thanks" in this someone might ask...As hard as it is we are "Thankful" that Matthews legacy will be carried on through organ donation...Someone is going to get his eyes, heart, liver and kidneys...And, Matthew is not alone in Heaven he has his dad (my uncle) side by side with him as they were in life!!!

What a stressful week...Now on to the weekend...

This is Me & The Hubby...We are off to a birthday party for a friend...

Don't we look nice????

Later that night I ended up with an allergic reaction and a trip to the ER on oxygen an IV's...

I'm going to try and explain this the best I can...and try to make it quick at the same time...

And YES!! It is OK if you LAUGH!!!

I wasn't in no mood to really PARTEEE after such an emotional week but I knew I had to get out of the house and I was already committed to attending the party...So off we went!!!

We really did have a good time...See...

(TAKE NOTE OF THE BALLOONS ON THE CEILING)

Do you know what happens when you think you are a teen and get silly at the end of an evening...even if you did only drink 4 wine coolers???

Note to self: Grabbing a balloon and inhaling the helium so you can sing "We are the lollypop gang" was NOT a good idea!!!

I ended up with lips like this...

Not to mention my throat was closing...It was awful gasping for air and very scary...

The Verdict:

Well atleast I know if I want to have fuller lips I will just rub them with a balloon...haha (Kidding)

I have to find humor in something...

I am "Thankful" that I had people to take care of me and get me the quick attention I needed...

Well this sums up my week...I sure hope yours was WAY better then mine...

But, Remember....

30 Days of "Thanks" Challenge: Day 7 & 8

2011-11-08T20:16:00.000-05:00

Today I am "Thankful" for Advil and Heating Pad

I've been under the weather with migraines and a bad back...Hopefully I will be back to normal tomorrow!!

Until then I am thankful for Advil (and some stronger meds) and my heating pad as I'm laid up in bed trying to relax and get myself back to normal...

WHAT ARE YOU THANKFUL FOR TODAY?

30 Days of "Thanks" Challenge: Day 6

2011-11-06T19:44:00.000-05:00

Today I am "Thankful" for My Parents...

It's not what they gave me...it's not where they took me...it is what they taught me...

Even though growing up I didn't think I was taught anything...mean parents...never let me have or do anything...

Those where my famous words growing up!!

Now that I look back I was nothing but selfish...It just took me growing up and being a parent to realize it...The whole time they were teaching me to be respectful...honest...caring and unselfish...That there is more to life then material things...

It just took alot of life's ups and downs for me to figure it all out and I am still learning...

As a parent of grown kids I instilled alot of those values in them...YEP!! I'm sure they were cussing me out as well...LOL

I never really thanked my parents for being the wonderful parents they are...They taught me so much in life and I wouldn't be the person I am today if it wasn't for them...they must be doing something right in life they will be married for 47 yrs....

Thanks Mom & Dad

WHAT ARE YOU THANKFUL FOR TODAY???

30 Days of "Thanks" Challenge: Day 5

2011-11-06T14:55:00.000-05:00

OK...I missed yesterday so I will post 2 today to make up for it...I was busy with a yardsale yesterday that didn't go as good as I would have likeD...But, that's another post for another day...

Today I am "Thankful" for My Sense of Hearing!!!

Sometimes we take things for granted and I think our hearing is one of them...You never really quite think about it as being a blessing...I was sitting here this morning in my recliner and enjoying the quietness of the house...When all of a sudden I heard the trickling of the rain outside...

As I sat hear listening to the rain fall I started to think about all the other things I am blessed to hear...

The voices and laughter of my family...

We all love when it's quiet...I know I do...But, the thought of not hearing the daily things we take for granted would be so devastating...especially since we have been blessed with hearing...

Another thing I listen to is MUSIC...

{source}

Not sure what I would do with out that one...I can listen to anything that reflects my mood and it can also be calming...The harmonious sound of music can be heard in so many ways...whether it's the radio...concert or a child humming a tune...

I am "Thankful" I can hear the different sounds of life everyday!!

WHAT ARE YOU THANKFUL FOR TODAY???

30 Days of "Thanks" Challenge: Day 4

2011-11-04T20:34:00.000-04:00

Today I am "Thankful" for my sense of sight!!!

I get to see the colors of life...

Beautiful flowers that make me smile...They bring so much joy in the spring...

The color of the ocean in the summer...

{source}

My favorite time of year is the "Fall"...When we go for a drive through the mountains and seeing all the leaves change colors is such a beautiful site...

{Grandfather Mountain, NC}

And even though I'm not a fan of the cold winter...the fresh snowfalls can be so beautiful...

{source}

There is so much to see in this beautiful world of ours and I feel so blessed to be able to see and enjoy as much of is as I can...

"Life is a great big canvas; throw all the paint on it you can"

WHAT ARE YOU THANKFUL FOR TODAY???

30 Days of "Thanks" Challenge: Day 3

2011-11-03T19:03:00.000-04:00

Today I am "Thankful" for "My Laptop"

What would we do without our computers???

(yahoo image)

HAHA!!! I don't think so...

With all the blogging, decorating, art, networking I do...I would be...

(yahoo image)

With my laptop I have the flexibility to move about the house and take it with me wherever I go if I need it...It is great to keep in touch with friends and family that live far away...Oh and the picture sharing I do

(darn pinterest)

Without my laptop I would not have met all my virtual friends...LOL

(yahoo image)

It really does make one's life so much easier for so many reasons!!

So again I will say I am Thankful for my Laptop :-)

(yahoo image)

WHAT ARE YOU THANKFUL FOR???

30 Days of "Thanks" Challenge: Day 2

2011-11-02T19:09:00.000-04:00

Today I am "Thankful" for "FRIENDS"... Without my friends I'm not sure that I would be able to do the things I do and yet keep my sanity...It's good to have them when you are having bad days and good days...They understand me and don't judge me!! The love and support I get from them is sometimes overwhelming...I am truly blessed to have them in my life..

Carrie -Me- Kara

Another dear friend I have also blogs...Roberta over at Love Shack Living ...We have been threw so much together and have so much in common that sometimes I don't know what I would do without her...I love having a fellow blogger as a friend...she really keeps me inspired!!!

(Wish I saw her more)

Real friends don't judge you...make you feel bad about yourself...or compete with you...they support you...give you joy and show you that you can trust them fully!!!

I have also met (well virtually) some friends and fellow blogger's...You all have a special place in my heart too ;-)

"Thanks for Being my FRIENDS"

WHAT ARE YOU THANKFUL FOR TODAY?

30 Days of "Thanks" Challenge!!

2011-11-01T20:25:00.000-04:00

I can't believe it's November already...Where did the time go???

For the next 30 days I'm going to give you all the reasons I'm "Thankful"...

Please join in the challenge!!

Today I am Thankful for my Family!!

I do not have a huge house...a brand-new car or lots of money...What I do have is an amazing family and memories that will last forever!!!!

WHAT ARE YOU THANKFUL FOR???

Happy Halloween

2011-10-30T20:18:00.000-04:00

Happy Halloween!!!!!!

I do not celebrate Halloween but I wanted to wish everyone a fun and safe day!!!

October Snow Fall

2011-10-29T17:52:00.000-04:00

YEP!! You read that title right...

OCTOBER SNOW FALL

I live in NC so we don't see much snow especially in October...but to my surprise today I have been sent many pics by family and friends who wanted to share there wake up call this morning....

Apparently the East Coast has been visited by the snow fairies...Way to early for my liking...Can I say I am really glad I moved to the South...I don't know about you but snow in October will just make the winter season that much longer...The weather here has been in the 60's but the sun is shining...

Here's a preview of some Northern snow...

Romney, West Virginia

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Nazereth, Pennsylvania

Martinsburg, West Virginia

Saylorsburg, Pennsylvania

The snow can really get you in the "Holiday Spirit"...But, not really feeling it in October...

I only miss the snow at Christmas time then I am over it!!

WHAT DO YOU THINK OF SNOW IN OCTOBER???

Quick Vintage Painting

2011-10-25T22:01:00.000-04:00

I know you all have heard of the *Graphic Fairy* and if you haven't you need to visit her...

The site is full of clip art images and vintage printable's...which are great for any crafter...I found this adorable vintage design...

I grabbed my 8 x 10 canvas board and printed out the vintage design...

I thought that the best color to give it the vintage look was to do the background in Ecru...

Once I gathered all my supplies I was ready to go...

Having such beautiful graphics can make for beautiful art pieces...It was challenging for me but I had a lot of fun recreating something and making it my own...

TAA DAA Here's the completed painting...I'd say not bad for doing a painting that is totally out of my comfort zone...

Here's the original next to my painting....

If you get a chance check out "Graphic Fairy's" website...I'm telling you she's got some good stuff :-)

Did I also mention I need to get back on the ball and blog on a continuous basis like I used to do...I just don't know how my days fly bye like they do...LOL!!!

*HAVE A SUPER WEEK*

About as Halloween as I get!!!

2011-10-09T19:04:00.001-04:00

It's that time of the year...

HALLOWEEN!!!

~Not a fan~

I love fall and all the warm decor' that goes with it...but, I am not a fan of "Halloween" and never have been...sometimes I feel like I miss out when I see all the fun adult parties and the cute costumes...than I realize just cause I don't like halloween doesn't mean I am a complete party pooper!!!

I went in search online of some cute "Halloween" ideas that even I would like and since I don't do anything creative myself for "Halloween"...I wanted to share with you all the cute ideas in blogland!!!

~Sassy Sites~

~Blue Painted Pumpkins~

~The Witch is in~

~Pinterest~

(If these are your's let me know so I can link to your site...Love them)

~Halloween Wreath~

~Trick-or-Treat Mantle~

~Too Boo Cute~

~Bedazzled Pumpkin~

I hope you were able to get some really cute "Halloween" ideas to decorate your home...

DO YOU HAVE ANY FAVORITE HALLOWEEN DECOR TO SHARE?

Hair we go again!!!

2011-10-02T13:28:00.000-04:00

Nothing like life repeating itself!!!

After 20 years working in corporate and losing my job 2 yrs ago it kind of gives you a new perspective on life...Looking for a job has proven to be very unsuccessful...I contribute it to many factors...The economy...My age and being over qualified...I'm not going to say I gave up...I'm say it is time for a new direction in life...

I took cosmetology when I was in high school...I did hair for a year and became pregnant with my daughter...I left being a cosmetologist to find a job with benefits and that paid more now that I was going to be a single mom...Bad part...I let my license lapse (I know shame on me) but it's OK!!!

Life had a different direction for me...It's the funny thing about life...we never know where our path leads but it's one heck of a journey...

I have decided to go back to doing hair...I don't want corporate stress anymore...my kids are grown...and I'm ready to do something I love!!

I have returned to school to get my license (again)...we won't go there...But, I'm not upset about it because fashion has changed so much since the 80's that when I'm done I will be current and up to date on all the fun trends...I've continued to do family and friends hair for fun so I don't feel like I ever really left the business...

So this is what I've been up to lately...(knee high in dummies...LOL)

Back to the basics!!!

Some up-do fun...my favorite thing to do...

It's all about creativity...

I decided to get creative with my own hair...

So far I'm loving it...I can't wait to get out of the 10 weeks of basics to get into the fun stuff...I hope you follow along on my new journey in "My Crazy Beautiful Life"...

I know I have been MIA...and I'm trying to get back into the swing of things...I've been thrown some curve balls lately and I'm just trying to get things in order and balance myself again...Sometimes I think I need to live in a batting cage...atleast I will see the balls coming...LOL

My saying this week has been...

"God gives us only what we can handle...Apparently God thinks I'm a bad-ass"

When things don't work...

2011-09-03T13:44:00.000-04:00

When things don't work...What do you do???

You find a way to make them work..

We downsized this summer from a 2400 sq ft house to a 1400 sq ft house...Even though I love the smaller house (less to clean)...I still have unused rooms...

I have always had rooms in my homes that you can look at just DO NOT enter...You know the ones that have the pretty furniture and all the crystal....or how about that dining room that has all the dishes sitting on the table waiting for someone to eat on it...

(nice dead plant in the corner)

It's always fun to clean a room that no one uses (NOT)...The kids are grown and it's hard to get everyone together for meals...and I'm tired of washing dishes that don't get used...

It's time to take the space and make it more usable for my lifestyle...

I have an office...

(taken when we first moved in)

Now I'm thinking of turning it in to a home studio...were I can paint and do any creating...basically where I can make a mess...

I just love these art/craft rooms...

{source}

Now for the dining room...This room has been a dilemma for me for a while...I have been debating on keeping it a dining room or turning it into the home office...You can read about it here...

I received some wonderful suggestions...

It would be so much easier to keep it a dining room...BUT, if lucky it only gets used once year...I would love to entertain but it does not fit into my lifestyle right now...I think it's time to sell the dining room set...I can always get a NEW one in a couple years if I feel there is a need for it...

I have NO PROBLEM shopping for new furniture...lol

Here are some wonderful dining room/office inspirations...

{source}

Your home should work for you...You should not work for your home!!!

Time to utilize the un-used space in my home....

I would love to hear any ideas or thoughts from all my "crazy friends"...

HAVE YOU THOUGHT ABOUT MAKING AN UNUSED ROOM FUNCTIONAL AGAIN???

**Don't forget to link up to my "Pick-a-Theme" party...

Party On..."Anything Goes"

2011-09-01T06:51:00.006-04:00

Let's get this party started...

THEME: ANYTHING GOES

Don't forget to leave me a comment on what you would like for a "THEME" at future

"Pick-Theme-Party's"

NEXT WEEKS THEME: Your favorite Pinterest find!!!!

"PARTY ON"

New Linky Party

2011-08-31T19:51:00.001-04:00

There's a new party in blogland!!!

Wondering what that is???....Every week the link up party will be a theme...Example: Pinterest, by color, by room, DIY, book, recipe, indoor, outdoor, photo...etc...

My goal is to make it fun and bring in a wide range of ideas and things to "My Crazy Beautiful Life"...BUT, You guys get to pick the theme...So every week at the link up party, you will need to leave a comment to what theme you would like to see on Pick-a-Theme Thursdays...

On "Pick-A-Theme" Thursday...I will let you know what the theme is for the following week!!!

You also have a chance to be "The Queen"....

I will be featuring some favorite party themes...

So grab the "Pick-a-Theme" Party button and pass the word on and get ready to party tomorrow..

The 1st linky party theme is "Anything Goes"...And that means "Link anything you would like"....

ANY IDEAS OR THOUGHTS ON THE "PICK-A-THEME" THURSDAY'S PARTY???

Saying it "ONCE"...

2011-08-30T20:00:00.002-04:00

This is "MY" blog...journal...life...motivation...inpiration...friend connection...ETC..

This is where "I"...talk about life...DIY projects...family...decorating ideas...memories...ETC...

Bottom line...I do what "I" want here and if you are going to say something "MEAN" don't bother..

"I" will "DELETE" it...

I don't care what "I" say...what "I" do...or how "I" say it...

"MY" grammer is not the best...."I" use slang and sometimes "I" make up my own words..."I" make run-on sentences and "I" make no sense at all...

But, you see "I" don't care...if "YOU" don't like it or feel the need to correct me or say something rude...

Then "PLEASE" -"SHUT IT" and "DON'T COME BACK"!!!!

You see..."I AM NOT PERFECT"!!

(and news flash...neither are "YOU")

Thanks to those who want to be here and enjoy "MY" rambling!!!

SO, PLEASE TELL ME WHAT YOU REALLY THINK???

(BUT, LEAVE YOUR NAME SO I CAN TELL "YOU" WHAT "I" THINK)

Making Changes...

2011-08-29T21:33:00.000-04:00

Please hang in there with me while I go through some...

{source}

It's always stressful when you have big changes to make in life...

I'm working on doing a better balancing act!!!

{source}

TELL ME HOW YOU BALANCE LIFE??

Color Inspired Weekend

2011-08-26T15:48:00.000-04:00

"Life is a great big canvas...Throw all the color on it you can"...

Have a color inspired weekend!!!

{source}

{Source}

WHAT COLOR INSPIRES YOU???

Loveable Labels Giveaway Winner

2011-08-25T20:45:00.002-04:00

Time to Announce the winner of my "LOVEABLE LABELS" Giveaway!!!

We have a WINNER!!!

True Random Number GeneratorMin: Max: Result:8Powered by RANDOM.ORG

CONGRATULATIONS

ANGELA @ A Mama's Two Cents Worth

You have 48 hours to get back to me or another winner will be chosen!!

I know you will just love the "Loveable Labels"...

Hormone Replacement Update Week 1

2011-08-25T18:49:00.001-04:00

If you have read my blog than you know that I am going through hormone replacement therapy…if not you can read it here…

A week ago I had my first HR Implant and other then the red welt on my ASS because of the bandage (adhesive allergy)… I’m doing OK!!!

This is what my life was like…

{source}

(I had a hysterectomy at 25...I try to use menopause as an excuse...LOL)

Itchy…oh yes!!! and to think I thought I just had dry skin or would blame the weather…I guess I was wrong…

Update: The itchy dry skin seems to be calming down

Bitchy…Depends who you ask…LOL

Update: My moods seem to be doing better

Sweaty…Not too bad…only when I was trying to sleep…

Update: Covers on…Covers off

Sleepy…Oh what I would do to sleep (Ambien don’t count)

Update: I’m taking progesterone and it seems to be helping…I still have a hard time falling asleep and wake up in the night but I do feel more rested in the morning than before…

Bloated…Wasn’t an issue…

Forgetful…I thought I was on my way to Alzheimer's…it is awful how forgetful I am..

Update: Don’t notice much of a difference in that area yet…

Psycho…What woman isn’t???

Update: Still crazy!!!

It’s suppose to take 1-3 weeks for me to notice a change…I feel like I have more energy...

(it could be all in my head)

Week one down...Two more to go...

I will be the life of the party in no time…

Table Top Decor

2011-08-24T11:04:00.000-04:00

Have you ever just walked around your house and knew there was an area that just needed something???

I do that all the time (hence, the shelf dilemma’s)

This time it was my kitchen table…I liked the runner I had on the table but the centerpiece was just not cutting it for me…

It was time to get creative and off to Michael’s I went…(I just love this store)

Secretly: I wish there was a hobby lobby close….

I love finding deals and than having a 50% off coupon…woo hoo !!

(Happy Dance)

I like to change things so often I hate to make it permanent…So all I did was poor sand in the bottom of the vase to hold the flowers in place…

I just arranged the flowers and added the moss…

Love the moss but boy did it make a messsssss…….

Nothing a vacuum clean can’t pick up…

Now that I have the centerpiece all together it’s time to see it on the table…

That is so much better….My table now has some personality!!

Here’s the Before & After…

What do you think???

I am always open for decorating suggestions!!!

TELL ME ABOUT A TABLE TOP DÉCOR YOU LIKED OR DIDN’T LIKE

DMV...Oh how I hate you!!!

2011-08-22T17:05:00.000-04:00

Where is the worst place in the world to go??? NC DMV

Where do people send you if they want to be cruel??? NC DMV

Where can you go to get tortured??? NC DMV

Horrible horrible place....

After 3 trips due to the failure of letting me know the FIRST time what was needed...Two trips were made today...If I didn't have a daughter pestering me to go get her learner's permit...I would have given up after the first trip...

But, NOOOOO!!

I'm a good mommy :)

(Repeat several times)

After 3 trips we finally had everything they needed...

Thank you for giving me my number B332... Oh look they are only on B221...

GRAB A SEAT!!!!

(you will be here a while)

{source}

And be here awhile is an understatement...

3 HOURS LATER!!!

B332 "We are ready for you"...

This is not the best part...

3 trips and 3 hours later...

I am NOT going back to the DMV!!!

(atleast until I cool down)

IS THERE A PLACE YOU ALWAYS HAVE A BAD EXPERIENCE???

Spiced Up IKEA Expedit

2011-08-19T12:23:00.000-04:00

If you know me or have been following my crazy life then you know that my SHELVES drive me nuts...

I love them but decorating them is quite the adventure...

Place objects on shelve...step back and look...take objects off and move to another shelf...step back and look...REPEAT!! (for months)

Makes me "CRAZY"!!!

One of the shelves I have is the IKEA expedit and I love it because of the all the dividers...just if I can get them decorated to my satisfaction...

(Are we ever really satisfied???)

I vote NO!!!

My expedit has wicker baskets...love them...and drawers and cabinets...which I love as well...great storage...It's just they make the darn things "White" and to me it's distracting...

See what I mean???

No matter where you put them the eye just stops...boring!!!

If you sit and look at something long enough you get an apiffany (my big word for the day)

I busted out some supplies...

It was time to give my expedit a makeover...

Don't you just love mod podge??

I took them boring...eye sore...white drawers/doors and gave them a much needed face lift...

(Boy do I wish mod podge could do that to my face..lol)

Ready for the big reveal???

Taaa Daaa....

What a difference...it gave my expedit some chicness...

I went from BORING....

To fabulous....

Now I will stare at it as it sits on the wall across from my desk and work on getting the decor where I want it...But for now I don't have "WHITE" distracting doors/drawers...

I'm open to shelf decor ideas!!!

TELL ME ABOUT A MOD PODGE IDEA YOU HAD TO REVAMP SOMETHING???

Loveable Labels Giveaway

2011-08-18T15:09:00.002-04:00

*** This give-away is now closed!
*Winner*
Angela @ A mama's two cents worth

Labels....Labels...Labels....

That is what I'm a sucker for...Loooove them!!!

They are great to for labeling all your kids back to school supplies and they are fashionable...It's a great way to identify your child's belongings...And, OHHHH the selection!!!

Regular Sticker Labels

Great for books, folders, tablets, binders, pencil cases & water bottles...

Slimline Sticker Labels

Great for pens/pencils, highlighters & rulers...

Shoe Labels

LOVE these!!! I've had a child loose tennis shoes and cleats in locker rooms...

(Not a happy camper when that happens)

The shoe labels are made with a perma-grip backing and clear protective coating to ensure durability...

Press n' Stick Clothing Dots

Perfect for the school gym clothes I have to purchase...YEP!! Lost of few of those in the locker room over the years....Best part is they are washer/dryer and bleach safe!!

Mini Metal Tags

Great waterproof tags for backpacks and key chains....

Loveable Labels offers so much more....I love the Medical Wristbands and they would be perfect for any child with Allergies or other medical info...

And don't let me forget the....

Loveable Labels has labels for Bath, Pantry, Spices, Toy bins, Office, Outdoor bins and Crafts...

If you need a label they have it!!!

The labels are also:

dishwasher...laundry...microwave...temperature...sunscreen...bleach...waterproof...sun safe!!!

Loveable Labels

has generously offered a

"Back To School Pack "

for one lucky winner!!!!

Thanks, Lovable Labels!!!!

*Mandatory Entry*

Go to the Lovable Labels website and leave me a comment telling me which one of their amazing products is your fave! Once you’ve entered by leaving a comment, you can gain additional entries:

*Extra Entries*

1. Follow @mylovablelabels on

and tweet

"WIN Back to School Pack" from @mylovablelabels

Return and leave us a comment and the link for extra daily entries...

2. ‘Like’ Lovable Labels on

for one extra entry and write below that you are a new fan...Tell them "My Crazy Beautiful Life" sent you on their wall and let me know you liked them...(extra entry)

3. Like "My Crazy Beautiful Life" on

and let me know you "liked" my page...(extra entry)

4. Mention this giveaway on your blog and leave us the link...(extra entry)

5. Follow my blog and let me know you are a "Crazy Follower" (extra entry)

This giveaway ends just in time for your child to get prepared for Back to School at:

8:00 PM (EST) on Thursday August 25th.

. The winner will be selected by random draw and will have 7 days to respond to our notification email before another winner is selected.

***This giveaway is open to Canadian and US residents only***

**DISCLOSURE** One of the products in this review was provided to me free of cost for the purpose of conducting this review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and are not influenced by monetary compensation.

Keeping it Real Around here...

2011-08-16T18:52:00.000-04:00

LIFE....it's always so complicated and full of ups and downs...

I'm just real about it and don't sugarcoat anything...I go through life with problems like everyone else...I'm just not holding it in...

It's just how we look at those problems...issues...trial and tribulations...

"LIFE...IT'S HOW YOU LOOK AT IT"

(Beware: This post can get ~~Bitchy~~ crabby...)

{Source}

I am 45...and had a hysterectomy at 25...That's right I'm talking rip all my ~~shit~~ female parts right out of my body... no plumbing...no play pen...nadda nothing...ALL of it!!!

That's right take them eggs as well why would I need them...HORMONES maybe...

I guess they didn't think so...Ruuuude....

The positive...NO MORE monthly visitor...Aunt Mary...Time of the Month...Period...Menstrual Cycle...Bloody Catastrophe...Code Red...Aunt Flow...OMG - OMP (On My Period)...

Tom (time of month) is here...

Whatever you call it I was not having one anymore...It was A.W.E.S.O.M.E....

At 25 that is...at 45 not so much...Symptoms: Hormone Imbalance

Lack of Estrogen..

Poor Sleep (Ambien)
Dry Skin (Lots of itching and lotion)
Mood Swings (Call me bi-polar or Cybil)
Overly Emotional (Hand me a box of tissues)
Memory Loss (That might be age..LOL)
Night Sweats (Turn the air up)
Vaginal Dryness (Vagisil)
Anxiety (Ativan and Busphar)
Headaches (Hydrocodone)
Painful Intercourse (Ahh Boo)
Depression (Celexa)

(I know I missed a few)

Lack of Testosterone:

Decreased Sex Drive (Poor Hubby)
Tiredness (Exhaustion)
Muscle and Joint Pain (Hurts to move some days)
Insomnia (Ambien or Lunesta)
Decreased Exercise Tolerance (Where's my bed and remote control)

{Source}

This is how I feel most days...

BUT!!!!!!

HELP... is on it's way... I have decided to do something about it...and I'm not taking anymore meds...that seems to always be the answer when I go to the Dr's... NO!! Prozac...Zoloft...Celexa....Ativan...Ambien....is not the answer...

(I think they make me feel worse some days)

I am going to have Hormone Replacement Therapy and it's a Natural Hormone Replacement...not synthetic like Premarin...Prempro...or Provera...

First treatment was today and I can literally say..."I have a pain in my ASS"

(They insert the hormone pellets in your butt cheek)

And...don't forget that B12 shot right next to it...

I will spare all of you a photo of my rear-end....LOL

I will keep you all updated and hopefully for the $$$$$$$$$$ I will feel like a teen again...;-)

I AM HOPING THAT BY SHARING MY LIFE IT WILL ENCOURAGE OTHERS WHEN THEY ARE DOWN....

Just Go With It Kind of Day...

2011-08-13T21:26:00.000-04:00

Isn't it amazing how some days you wake up and are not sure what you are going to do???

Then you open your front door and all you see is doom & gloom..

It's the kind of weather that not only sets your mood but your day....Now what to do???

Hubby is going to chill in the recliner...

And, wait for me to decide what I want to do...

Pondering...with COFFEE in hand...

Hubby and I both needed to run to the store so we might as well do that first...

I want to work on a couple planners...

I found this one from Crystal Wilkerson...It was the perfect size for the 7 x 9 binders I already had...I printed out the master copies and wanted to go to Staples to make copies so I wouldn't use all my ink...

(I know call me cheap)...

Hubby drives a Yukon and a 45 min drive to work one way is killing us in gas...

(DON'T GET ME STARTED)

Hubby has wallet in hand let's go make some copies...

I think we will stay in tonight as well and rent a couple movies...We are kid free for 1 more day...Might as well enjoy the peace and quiet...

The weather doesn't know what it wants to do...rain with some clouds and a chance of sun!!!

Next stop...

Hubby needed a few new shirts for work...but it seems that every time we pull into a store he gets on the phone....

YES!!! He's on speaker....

(Photo Op)

We made the trip in Kohl's quick...A couple shirts later...

We were home and since the rain was holding off hubby wanted to get the grass cut...

(Just in time is all I will say)

Ummm....I'm thinking I need to change the flag....

I'm not doing any outdoor work...so it's off to my little corner and work on my planners....

Even though we just went with the flow today is was quite productive...Maybe I shouldn't plan my days anymore...LOL

Now for a simple dinner...BLT's on Wheat...YUMMMM

Time to relax and watch a movie with hubby....

Here's a few things I worked on today...I will have some tweaking to do and once I'm done...

I will definitely share...

Have a GREAT WEEKEND!!!!

TELL ME ABOUT YOUR "JUST GO WITH IT" KIND OF DAY???

Who Needs a Sewing Machine...NOT I..

2011-08-11T18:10:00.001-04:00

Now that I have finished my daughter's room it's time for me to move on to the office...This project might take awhile...I have yet to come up with a solid plan...

My office furniture is black and I'm accenting with Purple & Apple Greens...so the one thing I know I wanted to change was the curtains...I just threw these up on the window when we moved in (I already had them) and I just wasn't feeling it...

I wanted to make my own curtains but I had to figure out how to do that without a sewing machine...I use to have one but unfortunately I lost it in a house fire and was not motivated to sew or create after that...

I had a plan so off to JoAnn fabric to get some fabric....It is really frustrating to walk around and not find anything you are really looking for or like...I did find some pretty lavender fabric with black....I really wanted to find ones with all the colors of my office (fat chance of that happening) so I crabbed some apple green ribbon and headed home to get started...

I have everything I need now let's make some curtains...

I have my fabric and ribbon for the curtains...tape measures to measure the size...straight pins to hem them...heat-n-bond hem...ironing board and iron...

I spray starched the curtains to iron them smooth and hem the edges to get ready to hem...

I measured...pinned and hemmed...then I grabbed my heat-no-bond to seal my hemmed edges..

Once my curtains were all hemmed I added the green ribbon for that added color...

I also used the heat-n-bond to adhere the ribbon to the curtains...

Go me...Go me...Go me!!!

I am patting myself on the back for this one they look so much better than the old ones...

Don't you think???

I wasn't sure about the fabric (not overly loving it) but it really gives my home office/craft room more of a cozy/ homey feel...This is just the beginning of the office/craft room re-do...

The curtains took me a couple hours and the best part is I bought the exact yards that I needed so there was no extra fabric or cutting :)

I really need to learn how to take photos of window when the sun is shining...

(note to self -again-learn how to use camera)

Now on to one of the 4 shelves in the office....

TELL ME ABOUT SOMETHING YOU MADE WITHOUT SEWING???

Teen Room Reveal

2011-08-05T14:03:00.000-04:00

FINALLY!!!

It's done...

I couldn't decide what color to paint the walls so for now I left them...The room has so much color in it now I left them off white...

Here is what I started with....

This was nothing exciting...we just moved into our new home and my daughter has been at camp since June and she turned sweet "16" on July 20...She will be home in a week and I wanted to surprise her with a room make-over...

Here are some things I've done...Pained the bed and dresser black and re-did some artwork in her room...

I got rid of all the little girl things in her room but kept some of the things that do have meaning for her...I had this three tier oak shelf sitting in the garage and sent the hubby out to spray paint it black...and waa laa a nice modern shelf for her memories...

She has a couple white shelves in her room and I was going to paint them as well but I thought it would be too much black so I left them white...(would love to hear ideas about them)...

This corner one I left in the corner and spray painted her cork/dry erase board...and left this are as her message area...

I bought some fun colored accessories for her room to brighten it up...and rearranged some of the cute things she already had...

I also wanted to keep her room inspirational and full of quotes...I think it's important for them to see words of encouragement when the wake up and before they go to sleep...

Are you ready for the big room reveal????

I know you are....(ok I won't make you wait)

Taa Daa...

(sorry the pics are not real clear...I REALLY need to learn how to use my darn camera)

I think she is going to just love it... Much Much Much better then the before...

Don't you think???

Now on to the office....

TELL ME ABOUT A ROOM YOU MADE OVER???

Words go a long way....

2011-08-03T20:20:00.000-04:00

I'm getting ready to finish up my daughter's bedroom and I am so excited to share it with you all...but one more minor project to go....remember when I did this artwork project (if not you can check it out here)...

I needed some words, quote or saying to complete it...

The scrapbook paper I used was plain with lines...

I pulled out some of my stencils, pencil and BIC permanent markers and began sketching and coloring in an inspiration quote for my 16 yr old...

Outline all done...Now it was time to color it in...

It says...

" Only as high as I reach can I grow...

Only as far as I seek I can go...

Only as deep as I look I can see...

Only as much as I dream can I be..."

Adding the words really made a difference and gave it that little something the artwork needed...

Here's the before & after....

I am now ready to hang everything and put what I have together in her room...

STAY TUNED!!!

HAVE YOU WORKED ON A PROJECT LATELY THAT YOU CAN'T WAIT TO SHARE???