Portabella-Basil Alfredo

I don't know if I've ever shared this with you, or not. But I'm one the biggest fans of mushrooms. Ever! I'm serious. It hasn't always been that way. My Mom is a HUGE mushroom fan. Always has been. But me. It took me a while to get "on board."

But once I did, there was no turning back. Not at all! I must buy 2 boxes of mushrooms, from COSTCO a week! I eat them raw. I add them to my favorite recipes. Heck, I just enjoy them every single day.

So when I got this yummy cookbook recently, there was no looking back! I was thumbing through, and noticed a certain little recipe. I wanted to make it immediately! But with all this traveling, it was pushed back.

Until this week. And I was at home. Looking at one of my favorite websites. Hello! Gooseberry Patch posted this recipe. It's this week's Recipe of the Week! A match made in Heaven!!!

Portabella-Basil Alfredo

16-oz. pkg. spinach fettuccine pasta, uncooked
1 T. olive oil
5 portabella mushrooms, chopped
3 c. milk
1-1/2 t. garlic salt
8-oz. pkg. cream cheese, cubed
3-oz. pkg. cream cheese, cubed
1-1/2 t. dried basil
1-1/2 c. grated Parmesan cheese

Cook pasta according to package directions; drain. Meanwhile, heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté mushrooms until tender, about 5 minutes; drain any extra liquid from pan. Add milk and garlic salt to skillet; heat just to boiling. Stir in both packages of cream cheese and basil. Reduce heat to low; cook, stirring constantly, until cream cheese is melted. Stir in Parmesan cheese; cook over low heat until melted, about 3 minutes. Serve over pasta. Makes 8 to 10 servings.



This was dinner Wednesday. Mostly because we've been so busy. And haven't been to the grocery store. I had everything on hand. And whipped this up in no time! I made a few changes. I added onions. In this house, we LOVE them! And I used a few cloves of garlic. You know, instead of garlic salt. The flavors just melted together. And made such a yummy meal!

We had some friends in town, and this was dinner. It was fast enough, for a weeknight meal. But tasty enough, for company. I also made some homemade bread, a salad, and some dessert. It was yummy! And you should try it too. And soon! Thanks again, to Brooke for the yummy cookbook!!! ♥

Searching For Pineapples...

Way back when, I was browsing the aisles of Wal-Mart. At 3AM. Where I live, that's the best time to shop. Almost no one, is in the store. And in a college town, that's rare. Where our local store is booming with college aged shoppers until 2AM. And the "family types," take over around 6AM.

Well, on this particular day, I found some pineapple candles. I can just imagine what you are thinking. But I have a soft place in my heart, for the pineapple. Since I was little, I've always preferred pineapple juice, over all other juices. Weird? I don't know. But it's the truth.

So at 3AM, I found myself buying 12 pineapple candles. It didn't hurt, that the sweet yellow color, matched my guest bathroom perfectly. The scent was light. And not overly sweet. But it scented the bathroom nicely. Just a light hint, of pineapple. Fresh pineapple. Not something artificial.

This went well with everything else in my life. At the time. The palm trees, that were in my backyard. My daily fresh pineapple snack. The soft glow of candles, when I'd get home, from a long day at work.

Fast forward. 2 or 3 years. And I was on my last 2 candles. During any other time in my life, I'd have gone through those candles, in less than a year. But I was no splitting my time, between 2 homes, and the open road. It was a good thing. It extended my little stash. But now, I'm missing those candles. And that time in my life...

I took to Wal-Mart, about 18 months ago. Searching for my beloved candles. With no luck! I searched and searched. Spent months. Asked friends. Looked for other candles. Searched on eBay. But I've had no luck!

So I figured, I'd take to my blog. And ask, has anyone seen a pineapple candle? Any brand. Any store. But I'm looking for just a pineapple candle. I've found candles, a variety of combinations. But the other scents, overwhelm the pineapple.

I hope someone can help me. Point me in the right direction. I know, years ago I found those candles in Spring. So maybe someone has seen something. Or maybe you know of a good Etsy shop. I want a realistic scent. Something that reminds me of fresh pineapple. Thank You ahead of time, for all your help! ♥  

Winter is in the Air

I don't know about you, but around here, the temps are starting to cool down. A lot! I'm starting to get into the Christmas spirit. As in, I want to start decorating, wrapping presents, and baking yummy Christmas goodness!!!

I know. It's barely, early November. I just can't help myself. I adore the cold weather. I live for "Holiday Decorating." Oh, and I just can't wait for all the yummy treats!

Yum! I was just thinking of my favorite hot chocolate. I've been making this, for close to 11 years now. I even remember the first time I made it. I burned my hand. Pretty bad. But boy, I didn't stop making this yummy goodness. It was almost too much, for me to bare. But darn, this is some good stuff!!!

How about a little fun treat. As in some "Baby Santa" gear! I have been wanting to make this, since it was posted. I even have the yarn. Darn, I need to just sit down, and get my "Crochet" on!!!

Yes, I'm totally in the holiday mood. I might even pull out the Christmas music. Is anyone else like me? Or am I the only one, counting down the days, until I can decorate. Putting up my decorations in November. And leaving them up, until late January. Yes, this is really a magical time of year! ♥

Aunt Ruby's Sweet Potatoes

Yes, I'm so excited for Fall!!! Not about the current weather we are having. Hurricane Sandy, please stay away. But I'm ready for the cooler temps. I'm ready for hearty Fall cooking, sweater wearing, and lots of holiday decorating!!!

This week's Gooseberry Patch, Free Recipe of the Week, is right up my alley!!! Sweet Potatoes. One of my favorite things to eat. Period! I'm that woman, that buys sweet potatoes in July. :) Yes, I like them that much. Now, I have one more yummy recipe. Just in time for Fall!!!

Aunt Ruby's Sweet Potatoes

3 c. sweet potatoes, peeled, cooked and mashed
1 c. sugar
1/2 c. butter, melted
2 eggs, beaten
1 t. vanilla extract
1/3 c. milk Brown Sugar

Topping: 1 c. brown sugar, packed
1/2 c. all-purpose flour
1/3 c. butter, softened
1 c. chopped nuts

Mix all ingredients together. Spoon into a greased 13"x9" baking pan. For Brown Sugar Topping, combine ingredients; mix well. Then sprinkle with Brown Sugar Topping. Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees for 25 to 30 minutes. Serves 8.



Yum! This was good. Really tasty to be exact. I actually made this, for breakfast. Just this morning. I'm such a "Lover of Fall." And of sweet potatoes. This hits all those "bells and whistles" for me. :) And you see that it says it serves 8? Yeah, I ate half of this...just a little while ago...

I'm thinking, this would make a nice side dish. Maybe with pork chops, or chicken breasts. With a nice little salad. Yum! I think I just figured out, what we're having for dinner. :) Hey Hills and Barracuda, want to join us? ♥

Movie Date Night

Since we got the good news yesterday, we've been going 100 MPH!!! Lots of things, that had been previously, "Put on the Back Burner," well have to get done. ASAP!!! So we're are busy again. I know. Life really never does stop.

My Guy, worked for a few hours today. Getting back "Into the Groove of Things." You know, until we start traveling tomorrow. I've been running around. Picking up things that we need, heading to the store, just making sure we'll have everything that we could possibly need.

But tonight, we decided to take it easy. Head to the "Lake House." Order in some food, from our favorite Japanese resturant. And watch a few good movies. Starting with The Help. One of my favorites. And surprisingly, one of My Guy's favorites too! Just don't tell anyone. ;)

We also watched The Secret Life of Bees. I'd never seen it. Neither had he. But we'd had it, in our collection, for a few years now. I'm a little embarrassed to admit this, but it was still sealed! I know...

Honestly, it was such a good movie. Super cute. Dakota Fanning, and Queen Latifah make the entire movie! How come I don't remember this movie? Like I never remember hearing about it. But somehow, we had it. :) Now I want to read the book. The books are always better, than the movies. Don't you think?

I don't know if this man shared my same love. Of this movie. He did fall asleep. But I'm thinking, that had more to do with him going back to work. It's been over 2 weeks, since he'd worked. So I'm OK with his napping. In fact, I finished 2 presents I was making. :) A crochet blanket. And a baby set. I even got about halfway, with a scarf and hat set.

We ended our movie watching with Cast Away. And I even got some packing down. As this guy, and our fur babies are now, fast asleep. We really enjoyed this quiet night at home. Very unusual for us. But something that we both, enjoyed so much! I think we need to do this more. You know, without one of us being hurt or sick. Just make a new "Movie Date Night." ♥

Call the Midwife

It's unusual, and honestly weird, that we haven't traveled for a few weeks. Well, for work anyway. But it's given us a little more time to connect with the TV. I haven't decided if that's a good thing, or a bad thing. :)

One of my new favorite shows, has to be Call the Midwife. Have you seen it? It's on PBS. And honestly, I'm hooked! Partly because of their accents, partly because of the "time period," but mostly for the storylines!!!

I've got to give it to PBS, they've been coming up with some great shows lately! I'm also digging, Upstairs Downstairs. And of course Downton Abbey. ♥

A Few of My Favorite Things

A few days ago, My Guy and I headed to my parents' cabin. My Mom had asked me to go and "winterize" the place. Because, they just couldn't get out there. Being that this guy is taking a little break from work right now, totally played into this plan.

We headed to Albertson's for a few necessities. And then across the street, to Walgreen's. You know, before heading to the mountains. Where the nearest store, is over an hour away. We needed to stock up, on a few things. Nothing too nuts. As we were only going to be there, for 2 days.

But that didn't seem to bother, little 'ol me. :) First of all, I'm pretty sure, I bought out these little guys. My favorite candy. That I can't find anywhere else...

Why are they my favorite? I don't know. Probably because these are my favorite flavors. And I don't have to eat lemon candies. That I just don't like.

Oh, and I couldn't resist the "Beauty Section." Where I bought my new favorite nail polish. L'Oreal's "Eiffel For You." It looks pretty purple, or lavender, in this picture. But in reality, it's more of a grey color. A great neutral for Fall.

Oh, and of course my favorite purchase!!! Gooseberry Patch's Halloween magazine. It's loaded with tons of fun ideas for Halloween. Not just food people! Decorating ideas. And little gifts too! The price was a little high. But with a nice coupon, I only paid $4!!!

Yes, I've spent the last few days trying new recipes. Dreaming of all the things, I'm going to make this month. Writing out lists of supplies, I'll need. Oh, and enjoying my candy. Seriously people, why can't I find it at other stores? ♥

My Newest Addition

Pretty sure, that you know all about, one of my favorite collections. My "Apron Collection." It's probably the most dear to my heart. It all started, with 4 aprons. That belonged to, 2 of my grandmas.

Over the last few years, my collection has grown quite a bit. With lots of handmade aprons. Did you say crochet apron? Why yes, I happened to make one for myself. I've also convinced my Momma, to sew me up a few. Say, one for every holiday! :)

Yes, I'm a bit spoiled. I even take to sewing my own. Searching out darling fabrics. Even vintage curtains. Heck, even this guy's family knows. His grandma sewed me up a "Birthday Apron." His momma is always picking me up a new one. From my favorite store Target.

But just the other day, I came home to this sweet thing. The Eiffel For You Apron. :) That my sweet man, happened to order. Just for me. In case you're interested, there are a few left. And as of this morning, they went on sale. Not sure how long that will last. But this beauty, is now $28. How can you resist those ruffles, that bow, and the cute print? I treasure my new girl. The newest addition, to my most dear collection. ♥

Be Our Guest

I have to admit something here. I'm a HUGE "Beauty and the Beast" fan. HUGE!!! It doesn't matter if we're talking Disney, or the Fairy Tale. There's just something about the story, that has always melted my heart. :)

When I was 8 years old, Disney's version was all over town! I was in love! Made this guy's mom, take me 20 or more times, to see the movie. I made my poor parents eat at Pizza Hut every single week. So I'd get the Beauty and the Beast puppets and puzzles.

Heck, when my parents got their cabin, I knew what my room was going to be decorated like. Can you imagine? I had the bedding, dolls, pictures, books, and even a lamp! I was in heaven!!! And over the last 11 years, watched my VHS, until I was sure, you couldn't watch it anymore.

So this year, when it came out in DVD, I snatched 1 up. Actually, My Guy bought me 2, and I had already bought 1. :) Little did I know, Little K, and my cousin J would fall in love too! And since I've been enjoying some good "Family Time" lately, can you imagine what we've been doing?

Well, when I'm home, Little K and I have watched our favorite movie many, many times. Then I found a few toys. Including this one. That I just had to buy!



Oh ya! I did. :) And it's helped host hours, and hours of fun! Then when I headed home to the SW, I bought another. For our home. And when my little cousin J came over, she was in love!!! It didn't hurt, that we had a few goodies from the Disney store too.

Yes, our little tea set, has been one fun toy! Brought me back to being 8 years old. And has helped me, to connect with the "younger" generation. Oh, there may have also been a little library recreating. And maybe, a little dressing up too! ♥

Oh Lion!

We are currently surrounded by babies. No lie! Between My Guy's family, friends, and co-workers. Then you have my family, friends, and co-workers. I swear, it's like it's "Raining Babies!"

But it's definitely a good thing! I LOVE babies!!! Why else, would I want to be a pediatrician? I especially LOVE snuggling up, with all these tiny babies. Smelling them. I swear, someone needs to bottle up the "Newborn Smell!"

I also LOVE to make stuff for the little ones! Ask anyone that knows me. Including the hospitals where I work. I make everyone, something. The kiddos at work, get some sort of amigurumi toy. Little ones that I know, are showered in all things baby! Sweaters, booties, hats, blankets, and toys. So when I took a minute to look around Stitch 11 again, I about died!!!



Just look at this hat! Oh my goodness! I don't even know where to begin. Or how to put it into words. But I just have to make one. OK, maybe 10! Definitely, Little Nephew will be getting one. And so will my little cousin. Now when can I start crocheting? ♥

Busy-Day Lasagna

I have a little confession to make here. I LOVE Italian food! The real stuff. My grandma, was Italian, so I know real, and good food, when I see it. And more importantly, when I taste it!

But sometimes, you just don't have the time for it. The good stuff, always takes hours and hours to make. And let's face it, most of us are really busy. All the time! I myself, have come up with some ways to try and accommodate our busy schedule. Like doubling or even tripling the amount of sauce I make at once. Then I freeze the leftovers. Makes for a super easy spaghetti dinner, on a busy night.

I've also grown to LOVE lasagna rolls. Pretty much you boil the lasagna, make the filling, then roll everything up. Place the rolls in a baking dish, and cover with your favorite sauce, and cheese. Yum!

But there is also a new idea in town. Well, maybe not so new. I first heard about it on one of Rachael Ray's shows. About 5 years ago. You use ravioli to make a quick lasagna. Now I've seen it done, many times. On TV. But I've never tried it.

Then I read this week's Gooseberry Patch, Recipe of the Week. Um, hello! I knew I had to try it out! And it's super easy. Definitely what I needed last night. :)



Busy-Day Lasagna


2 c. shredded mozzarella cheese
1 to 1-1/2 c. shredded Parmesan cheese
2 26-oz. jars favorite pasta sauce, divided
2 25-oz. pkgs. frozen sausage and cheese ravioli, divided
12-oz. pkg. frozen spinach, thawed and drained, divided

Combine cheeses in a bowl; set aside. Spread a layer of sauce in a lightly greased "13x9" baking pan. Arrange a layer of ravioli on top of sauce. Spread a layer of spinach on top. Add a layer of cheese mixture, completely covering the spinach. Spoon some sauce over cheese. Repeat all of the layers, ending with a layer of cheese. Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees for 20 to 25 minutes, until cheese is melted and sauce has reduced a little. Let stand 5 to 10 minutes before cutting into squares. Makes 8 to 12 servings.



So we're pretty lucky. Around here, we have a cute Italian shop. That has tons of fresh ravioli every day. I picked up our favorite. And thawed some of my yummy sauce. In no time, we had a yummy meal. Salad and dessert included! I also picked up some crusty Italian bread. :) You have to have some. It's the ONLY way to soak up the sauce. :)

What a super easy meal! That tasted like it took hours to make. Honestly, besides a quick run to the store, it took 5 minutes to put together, and in the oven. Yum! This is definitely going to be a regular on our "rotation." ♥

Perfection in a Suitcase!

The one thing you should know about My Guy and I is, we're hilarious! We have a funky style. And we are always looking for fun items. Things that are "outside the box." And just different.

This could be why, our homes are taking forever to finish up! We want unique pieces. But also pieces that are inviting, and comfortable. Do you know what I mean? This has meant, ordering lots of things. And I swear to you, every single time I get on Pinterest, there is trouble. Because, then we want a million more things, for our homes...

We're getting close to being finished. Close. But there are still some key pieces missing. Things that just make our space, well "ours!" And like I said, I troll Pinterest, blogs, any place I can think of, for inspiration. That's where I found this chair!!!




And oh, I want one. For our library. How fun would that be? To put next to a window. And get lost in a good book. Oh my goodness! Hello!!! I even have the perfect suitcase. So I called up Joe, to see if he could help a girl out. And he said yes!!! Now I'm just wondering, when I can sit in my new chair? Can you tell how happy I am? ♥

A Little Confession...

As I'm laying in bed, I'm starting to realize something. A little shocking and surprising to me. I've developed a bit of an addiction. To Knott's cookies...



It doesn't matter the flavor. Just that they are Knott's. When I was in high school, I used to buy these. A few times a week. From the vending machines. It was definitely a treat. One that I looked forward to. All the time! There was just something about that buttery cookie. And that sweet jam. Makes a girl smile, just thinking about it.

Well, the other day, I was super busy. And had no time to eat. It was 3PM, and I hadn't had a thing to eat! When I ran to the gas station, and then had to run in to get a receipt, I took a quick look around. I was starving! So I picked up a lemonade and some nuts. Then I turned around, to see these cookies staring at me!

I couldn't help myself. I bought 5 bags. I'm not proud to say this, but I ate all 5 bags, within days! Days I tell you! Then I had to make a quick run to Costco. And I just thought, "They have to have my cookies here." After loading up on fruit, veggies, and paper goods...I headed to the snacks. And found my favorite cookies!

That leads us to tonight. For about 2 weeks now, I've gone to bed with a book...and some cookies. Yes, I know! But I can't help myself. I've added another 1/2 mile to my daily run. And I skip my mid-morning snack. Just for this sweet treat!

My Guy, thinks I'm hilarious! But I really can't help myself. And I've promised myself, after I finish this box...I will not buy anymore. Because I can't control myself. Maybe in 6 months...I'll buy myself some more. But no sooner! Because honestly, I could gain 100 lbs very easily!!! ♥

Beautiful!!!

We've been working really hard, on our home. In my hometown. Trying to make it "complete." There are a few things, that I've really got my heart set on. Things that I've ALWAYS wanted!

One of those is a "Rose of Sharon." In my hometown, they are everywhere. In beautiful shades of pink, white, purple, red, and blue. I've ALWAYS wanted one. Wished and wished for one. And now, we're going out to the nursery. To pick up 9!!!



We have the perfect little garden area. Outside our library. That I'm turning into a flower garden. A little oasis to sit, and soak up "Nature's Beauty." I can't wait to see what happens, when everything is in. And growing well. Oh, I just love beautiful flowers!!! ♥

Summer Fun!

Last month, I blogged about "Island Coral." It's such a pretty color! I've actually, absolutely fallen in LOVE with 2 colors, from Sinful Colors. "Island Coral" and "Cinderella."



I've worn "Island Coral" pretty much since I bought it. I LOVE that it's soft. And more on the pink side, than orange. And this week, I'm trying out "Cinderella." It's a beautiful blue/aqua color. Reminds me of the tropical blue oceans. Oh so pretty! With just a hint of sparkle. Not crazy, chunky glitter. Just some sparkle. That catches the light, so softly. Perfect for some Summer fun!



While hunting for a picture of the nail colors, I've come to realize something. I'm not alone. There are tons of women out there, that are in LOVE with these 2 colors! They're not your "typical" bright Summer colors. But not pastels either. Some beautiful mixture of the 2!!!

For me, I was just looking for something fun. A color other than pink. And white. I'm pretty sure, everyone is sick of seeing my nails, painted white. So I picked up 2 colors. Colors that I wouldn't normally wear so much. But I'm so glad that I bought them. :) They've made my Summer, so much more fun and colorful! ♥

Golden Macaroni & Cheese

I don't know about you. But I LOVE me some mac 'n cheese!!! Seriously, you'd think I was 3 years old. :) I try not to make it too often. Because I'd be the 400 lb woman!

I have 1 recipe, that I turn to every single time, I'm craving mac 'n cheese. 1 recipe, that is my absolute favorite. Never fails me. And is just perfect! But I also like to try new recipes. Look for a little twist on my mac 'n cheese.

When I opened up Gooseberry Patch's Free Recipe of the Week, my smile couldn't have been any bigger! This was a perfect match, with our BBQ chicken last night. You definitely need to try this recipe!



Golden Macaroni & Cheese

10-3/4 oz. can cream of mushroom soup
1/2 c. milk
1/2 t. mustard
1/8 t. pepper
3 c. elbow macaroni, cooked
2 c. shredded Cheddar cheese, divided
1 c. French fried onions

Blend soup, milk, mustard and pepper in a lightly greased 1-1/2 quart casserole dish. Stir in macaroni and 1-1/2 cups cheese. Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Top with remaining cheese and onions; bake 10 additional minutes. Serves 4.



Let's just say, this guy was a little unsure of the recipe. While he watched me put it together. But when we dug into the pan, he was all smiles. So was this guy. Who finished off the pan. :)

This is definitely different from the norm for me. About the only things that were similar, were the macaroni, milk, and cheese. But I have to say this, all the flavors worked well together. Made it interesting, without overwhelming. It was delicious. And you can bet on it, I printed out this recipe. And added to our "Favorites!" ♥

Spanglish...Long Time No Watch

There's this movie, that all my friends have been telling me to watch. Especially Selena. And for whatever reason, I've never really searched it out. I don't know why. Because the storyline has ALWAYS interested me. And well, I really do trust my friends.

I have this list of movies, that I eventually want to watch. Because I've heard amazing things about them. Or because my friends and family recommend them. I have this list, and when movies go on sale, I always look for these titles. ALWAYS! It's how I've found many of my favorite movies! But somehow, Spanglish NEVER seems to be around when I'm looking for it.



Well, the Mr. is off working today. All day long! Doing what he does best. My Bestie is staying in. Because Baby C, isn't feeling too well. And me? Well, I'm bored out of my mind!!!

So I decided, that I need to work on a few crochet projects. Like my cousins' baby gift. She's having a little boy, at the end of the month. And I missed her Baby Shower. :( Second one for her, second one I miss. So I feel like, I really need to step up my game, with the gift.

And I got to work. I got to work, and then turned on the TV. Searching for something to watch. And what did I run across? Spanglish! Oh my goodness!!! It's the cutest movie ever!!!

Maybe because I'm Hispanic, I relate better. But for whatever the reason is, I just fell in LOVE with this movie. So I text this guy. And told him, that we NEED to watch Spanglish together. Remember, he was at work.

Well, not 2 minutes later, I get an e-mail. It was a confirmation. Because this guy, ordered it. Looks like we'll be having a "Movie Night" this week. And I can't wait! ♥

Cutest Animals Ever!!!

I don't know about you, but I'm a very indecisive person. It takes me weeks, sometimes months, to buy something. I have to look at it, research, debate if I really want it. It's sorta a pain in the butt.

For example. Every single time, I go to a craft store, I look at this book. "Easy Crochet Critters." I even put it in my basket. Then when I get to the register, I decide not to buy it. Well, not too long ago, I went shopping with my Mom. And I debated this book again. Even with my coupon. Making this book $2...



I think my Mom had had enough with me. She bought me the book. And you know what? I think it's my favorite crochet book ever! There are so many cute patterns in this book. Definitely worth the cost. And the best part, they are super easy to make! I whipped up a lion, elephant, hippo, giraffe, and monkey in one night! The monkey is by far, my favorite animal of the bunch! The face of the lion is also to die for!!!



So I've taken this book, and created a few different gifts. A musician I used to work with, has a little girl. That just turned a year old. I made her 5 animals, whipped up a little bag, and bought her an animal book. She LOVED it!

Then a friend of ours, also has a little girl that's turning a year old. I made a few different animals, and pretty much made her the same gift. I whipped up a few, to send to another cousin. Who just had a baby. And I have a list of kiddos, I still want to make a set for.

But by far, that little monkey has been the winner. I've made 10! That weren't in these sets. And I've sold every single one! I'm not even trying to sell them. But everybody is in love with them. I've got a few more ordered. And I'm starting to make some extra animals. Because in September, my Mom and I are going to sell at another Craft Fair. :) I can't wait! ♥

I LOVE You Island Coral

Before we left on vacation, I headed to Walgreen's. To pick up a few things, that I thought we'd need. OK, so I didn't NEED a new nail polish. But I bought a few! :)

There's just something about Sinful Colors, that gets me every single time. I picked up 4. It didn't hurt that they were 99 cents! And I only packed 2. Can we say it? I'm in LOVE with "Island Coral."



This color is perfect for the beach. And light skinned gals like me. 2 coats on my toes, and fingers. That was days ago. And it's still going strong. No base coat, no top coat. Just lots of love! It's not too orange. Not too pink. Not too bright. Just perfect for Summer! ♥

Summertime Favorite

I have to put these out there. I'm definitely what you would call a "Girly, Girl." I LOVE makeup, clothes, shoes, jewelry, accessories. All that good stuff. But I've never really felt like I was a gorgeous woman.

Most of this might be, because I cheered when I was younger. And was surrounded by gorgeous girls. My Mom didn't really wear makeup. So I was on my own there. My hair has always been a "Thorn in My Side." That sort of thing.

But as I've gotten older, I've really begun to enjoy these things much more. A lot of this probably has something to do with this lady, and this lady. Oh, and because I've become a performer now. And it's my "job" to dress up, and look nice.

Well, as much as I love all these things, in the "Heat of Summer," I'm not a fan! Not at all! In fact, for the last few weeks, I've been sporting leggings, and some sort of long and flowy tank top. Oh, and those ballet flats. My hair is up and out of my face. Makeup is at a bare minimum.

But I don't think it's a "Bad Thing." Heck no! It leaves more time to enjoy life. And I feel so much "lighter." Heck, I'm pretty sure, my skin and hair are thanking me right now. But the one thing that I've always really gotten into, during the Summer, is nail color!

Yes, it's my one thing. It's definitely a "Summer Thing." I paint my nails 2-3 times a week. I probably buy 4 nail polishes a week! It's so addictive. Because it's my way of adding color, to my outfit. And honestly, painted nails are s cute!

Well, in the Summer I usually gravitate towards 2 colors. White or Essie's Turks & Caicos. I know! But they remind me of Summer. I sport the white for 3 or 4 weeks. Then add that gorgeous turquoise color for a week or so.

Last week, My Bestie needed to make a quick run to the store. She was all out of chocolate! And we all know what happens when Hills doesn't have chocolate! :) So we headed to a local CVS. She went looking for candy, and ice cream. I got caught up by this gorgeous display of L'Oreal nail polish!

And what in the world did I find? Some of the most gorgeous colors! Colors that all the "expensive brands" are carrying right now. I quickly picked 4, got my favorite magazines, and a couple of cards. Yes, I know! But it was some last minute stuff that I needed, before we left on vacation. :)



This gorgeous color is called, "Club Prive." This incredibly creamy, aqua color. Immediately, I was in LOVE!!! When we got back, I realized I'd forgotten Turks & Caicos at home. Good thing I picked this baby up!

2 things you should know. Maybe 3. This color is almost exactly the same as Essie's Turks & Caicos. But it only cost $5! It's very similar to China Glaze's For Audrey. Except For Audrey is a bit more blue. Unless you're like me, you probably wouldn't notice this. Oh, and the consistency of the polish, is AMAZING!!!

So we've been on the water, and the beach, for days now! My nails have been painted since last Friday. No base coat. No top coat. This polish is amazing!!! It might just be my new Summertime favorite! :) I can't wait to get back, to try my other 3 colors!!! ♥