Fun Desk Idea

I've really been looking at tons and tons of furniture lately! Part of it is, we have 3 homes, that need to be finished. But I've been looking for some "Budget Friendly" ideas. Heck, this idea, I'd LOVE to add to my own home. :)



An old coffee table, into a new desk. Personally, I'd use some big legs. Something with more weight to them. But I just adore this idea!

I've been finding lots of crazy furniture, on the side of the road. My daily commute, just takes me by some really nice neighborhoods. And people are ALWAYS updating their homes. For sure, I'm going to be hunting down a coffee table. I'd love to make my own desk. And perhaps, paint it a fun and unique color! ♥

Fajita Fun!!!

It's no lie, or secret, My Guy's family, L-O-V-E-S Mexican food!!! It's a good thing, I'm Hispanic, and picked up on my family's great cooking skills. :) At least, once or twice a month, I cook for My Guy's grandma. It's a whole evening of fun, catching up, and lots of food!!!

But I don't neglect the rest of his family either! His nieces lived with us for a while. And well, they got a little hooked on Mexican food too! Little K, is at that age, when play food is essential! There is not a day that goes by, when she doesn't want to play. If they happen to be over, while I'm cooking, she'll either ask to help me. Or she'll pull out her play food and "cook" too! :)



When I saw this pattern, just over a week ago, Little K came to mind. Immediately! And I knew, that I had to make it for her. :) By the way, isn't the pepper adorable? Well, I've printed the pattern, packed my yarn, and hope to have a nice little present, for Little K come Monday! ♥

If Only...

Wouldn't it be wonderful to win the lottery? There are so many things, I'd do with that money. First off, I'd donate half of it, to a Children's Hospital. Then I'd finish school. Buy my brother and his wife, a new home. Help my parents with their business. Fix my home. Things like that. Maybe just maybe, I'd also like a new car. :)



I suppose, it doesn't hurt to dream. Someone has to win the jackpot! I've gotten my share of the tickets. And have my fingers crossed. You just never know, what might happen. And well, maybe something good will come out of the money I just spent! ♥

Please Support Purple Day

Today is Purple Day. And I ask, that you wear something purple today. It doesn't matter what it is. A purple top. A pair of purple pumps. Heck. some purple jewelry, would be nice.



And why am I asking you, to do this? It's to help support Epilepsy Awareness. I know, Epilepsy Awareness Month is November. But today is Purple Day.

I'm VERY PASSIONATE about this! Because my Dad has epilepsy. He was not born with it. Actually, it was the result of an accident. I've ALWAYS known my Dad, with epilepsy. As a small child, I learned how to take care of him. Epilepsy has always been a big part of my life. And I'm very hopeful, that in my lifetime, a cure will be found. So let's wear some purple today! ♥

Hair Inspiration

I can't lie here. I've been in a bit of a "Hair Funk" lately. Either, I straighten my hair, and wear it down. Maybe throw it in a messy ponytail at work. Or I wear it, totally natural at home. All crazy curly, with a touch of product, to hold the curl. If I wear my hair this way, I generally, clip it up.

Honestly, I wish that Manders was around. All the time! To do my hair. She always has some amazing hairstyle. Something simple, but with tons of impact! Oh, if I just had her skills. Then maybe, I'd do things like this...



Yes, I've been inspired! I want to wear braids. Back in high school, I adored braids! Wore french braids, instead of ponytails. When I was a cheerleader. Not the usual kind. But 2 braids, that lead into one. Oh, I miss my braids! The top middle picture, is my inspiration. For tomorrow. When I hangout with My Bestie. Then we meet My Guy, and this guy, for dinner. Yes, I might just put a little effort, into my mile long hair! ♥

Little Owl Crochet Along

It's no secret, that I LOVE to crochet! No, it's not. I ALWAYS have a ball of yarn, and a crochet hook, in my purse or briefcase. ALWAYS!!! You should also note, I'm a BIG fan of Ana Paula Rimoli. Her crochet patterns, and toys, are so cute! If you need some convincing, check out Ana's Flickr page. :)

If you've never seen Ana's work, you should visit her blog. And her Etsy Shop. In fact, 4 or 5 years ago, I made my first purchase from Ana. A handful of patterns. Later, I bought her books. Bought magazines, with her patterns in them. And then, this guy, surprised me, with all of her Etsy patterns!

Right now, Ana is hosting a Crochet Along. With her cute "Little Owl" pattern. You can find the pattern on her blog. And you should connect with Ana, on her Facebook page.



One thing about Ana, she is so incredibly kind! And so helpful. In fact, one of the first patterns that I bought, had a mistake in it. She actually, hunted out, everyone who bought that pattern, and sent them a personal e-mail. With an apology, the correct pattern, and a "bonus" pattern. I've had many chats with her, via e-mail. And Ana is always so helpful! She LOVES for people, to send her pictures, of the items they've made. From her patterns. And is ALWAYS so encouraging!

In fact, every single time, that I've purchased something from Ana, she has been a doll! And often posts free patterns, on her blog. For all of you crocheters out there, please support Ana! And if you can't buy a pattern at this time, join her Crochet Along. ♥

A Lesson Learned in Life...

This week, we're in a beautiful place. The hills of the "Big Bend State." Oh yes, it's beautiful! We spent lots of time, just enjoying the area. Amazing vintage shopping! My Bestie and I, took a long stroll, with Baby C. Just enjoying the beauty, of this space. This my friends, is one of my favorite places to visit!

But now, it's work time, for My Guy. And honestly, I'm pretty excited. I myself, will be studying. But it's not so bad! I have a HUGE exam tomorrow. And a lot on schedule this week. Medical Conferences, Clinicals, and did I mention the traveling?

So I'm going to leave you with a song, that this Mr. is currently grooving on. He's having some issues, with a friend or two. I think this song, just tells it, like he feels it. "Be yourself, by yourself, stay away from me."



In the meantime, I'm going to grab some lunch. And my favorite pillow. Probably change into a comfy sweatsuit. And crack open the books. It feels good, to get to study, such life changing things.

Have a great week friends! Most of my posts this week, will be scheduled. But I will "pop in" from time to time. Happy Sunday! ♥

Such Celebrations!!!

This is one of those amazing weeks! When so many people that I know, are celebrating birthdays. Actually, from now, until the end of the month, is pretty fun, and special around here. :) March always brings, a smile to my face!



Yesterday, Cari became an teenager. Wow! Where has time gone? Yesterday, would have also been my Uncle's birthday. RIP. Today, Sophia, is turning 5! Tomorrow, a good friend of mine, has a birthday. Sunday, little Lauren will be 5! Monday, Liliana turns 2. Tuesday, my sweet Maribel will be 5! Wednesday, Abby and Robbie, will be 2. The best birthday presents, anyone can ask for! Friday, Mariana and David Jr. turn 2. It's also an old high school friend's birthday. And next Tuesday, is my sister's birthday!

Sprinkle in, some of my cousin's birthdays. A few more friends. And a couple of due dates. Oh yes, March is a very busy month! One that is full of blessings. :) A month that makes me so excited! But it also includes so much traveling. To spend time with all the people I LOVE. It's totally worth it! ♥

So Creative!

We were having dinner with My Guy's grandma the other day. It's always a good time. We love to catch up with her. I honestly, wish that we had more time, to spend with her. We have a lot in common. Most of the time, I'll cook. Because she LOVES Mexican food. And well, I happen to be pretty good at cooking it. :O)

We also share a love of crafts. She doesn't really craft. But she appreciates what I do. And is always looking for new things, to share with me. Like this beautiful picture.




Could you imagine making this? It's simply beautiful! And that is all paper! Paper people! I wish that I knew, how to do this. Because it's beautiful! Or at the very least, find the person that made it. I'd LOVE to buy a piece! ♥

Grimm's Fairy Tales

Recently, so many people that I know, are having babies. Friends, family, and colleagues. It's such a time of blessings! And one of my favorite gifts to give, to new babies, are books. I know, it sounds crazy! But I think they're precious gifts. Books that can be used for many years to come. And one of my favorite books to give, is Grimm's Fairy Tales.



Yes, I think this is just the perfect gift! I still have my copy, from when I was little. I think most parents don't expect it. But end up, very excited. What are some of your favorite baby gifts to give? I definitely could use some suggestions. I have 5 Baby Showers to go to, in the next 6 weeks! ♥

It's Fun!

I can definitely tell, that it's a new year! I've had a lot of friends and family call me. Why? They're looking for a new exercise program. Something fun. Something to get them in the mood to workout. Something to help them with their new resolutions.

I've been thinking about this. And well, there are so many GREAT programs to follow. My favorite being...running! But I know lots of people don't like to run. So I thought some more. And I'm lucky enough, to get to try many of these programs out. You know, for school. But one of my new favorites, has to be LaBlast! It's just fun, to get up and dance!



I had so much fun, when I was trying out this program! Mostly, because I like to dance. Yes, I enjoy exercising. But more than anything else, I like to dance! This is definitely a program, that you won't get bored with easily. I promise. So if you're looking for something new, I'd definitely try out these DVDs. At the very least, pick up 1 of them. If you enjoy it, maybe a few of your friends, and you, can invest in the set. Because honestly, this is fun to do with all your friends! Bonus, they'll keep you motivated to workout too! ♥

Cobalt and Ruffles

Ever since I took my niece shopping in May, I've wanted a cobalt dress. I past up a cute dress, with rosette detailing. Why? I don't know. The same dress was also available in tangerine. And when I went back to Sears, a week later, they were all sold out!!!

But I haven't given up hope. I've been searching. Because there is just something about the color. Then, last night, I was doing some online shopping. And I found this dress at Old Navy! Only available online.



I wanted to cry, when I realized my beloved dress was sold out. At least in the color I wanted. I went on with my Christmas shopping. Then, I decided to check once more. That's when I found it in blue! In my size. I put it in my cart, and immediately checked out. Let's just say, I'll be stalking the delivery guy, until next week. ♥

Simple Fall Craft

Do you just put in random words, in Google search? Sometimes, I do! I have an idea of what I want. But I can't find it. So I Google random things. And this week, it worked out. Really well! I came across this picture.



I am sorta bummed though. I can't find the source. No, I don't need a tutorial for this cute craft. Nope! But I was hoping to stumble on some amazing blog. Ugh! Well, at least I have a new idea. And I'm going to get started. I need to go find me some branches. Happy Wednesday! ♥

Aqua and Red

Gabi and Fern are my primos. And they're expecting their first baby. We're all so excited! And this guy and I, are just over the moon! They asked us to be the Godparents. To their beautiful baby girl.

Baby girl is due in November. Which means, the Baby Shower is nearing. Yes, I'm throwing the shower! And I need a few ideas.

Gabi just adores the Aqua and Red color combo! And that's the "theme" of baby girl's nursery. I also thought it would be fun, to throw a Baby Shower, in the same color palette. But I need some ideas. And quick!



So far I have 1 picture for inspiration. And of course, my primos' house. :) Do you have any ideas? For decorations, food, games, more themes, or ideas. I'd LOVE to hear them all!

I'm thinking something a little retro. Definitely involving cupcakes. And lots of fun. I'd LOVE to hear any ideas that you have. Actually, I'd really appreciate any help. You can also e-mail me your ideas at, SweetNightingaleSing (at) gmail (dot) com. Thanks for all your help. I'm off to try, and bake me, some of these cupcakes! ♥

Addicted?

I've become an addict. Highly addicted to Cranberry-Apple Juice. A little sweet. A little tart. A 50-50 mix of juice and water, it's the best way to start my morning! Usually with a piece of toast and peanut butter. Yum! :)



Yes, I might just drink a bottle, in a matter of days. But honestly, this is the ONLY sugary drink, that I indulge in. And since I don't drink coffee, I'm clearly not a "Morning Person," and well I just need some help in the morning...this is a good compromise. Yum! I think it's taking over my love of Cranberry-Raspberry juice. ♥

New Girl

New Girl looks like it's going to be so good. Something light and fun. Just what I need in my life. Is anyone else as excited as I am? I don't exactly know what it is, but I'm secretly counting down the days, until it airs. I guess I'm just ready for some laughter. And a little bit of time, to just forget "Real Life." And for me, good TV provides both of those things. ♥

Combat Hospital

Yes, this is quickly becoming one of my favorite TV shows. You know me. I'm a sucker for any kind of medical show. This one is no different! But what I really enjoy about this particular show, is the "inside" look to wartime. Yes, it's a definite "must see" for me! And because I never actually get to see it when it airs, you can watch it here. It's definitely worth a try! ♥

Bad Habits

Do you have a bad habit? One that you are desperately trying to break? Ya, you know the one. This Mr. was a smoker, years ago. He really enjoyed it. And as I hear, it was a semi-long affair. But he kicked that bad boy habit right in the butt. Me? It's more of an addiction to this sweet nectar...



Yes, we ALWAYS have Diet Cherry Pepsi in the house. In the last few months, I've grown to enjoy a tall glass, with lots of crushed ice, as I work in the afternoons. OK, sometimes, it turns into 2 or 3 glasses. But I know, that it's not good for me. Or something that should be a regular habit. It's only slightly better than regular soda. I need to kick this habit. Oh, just thinking about it, makes me nervous! ♥

Fun in the Sun

So we're taking a little time to relax, and recharge our batteries. My Guy and I are on vacation. Enjoying a little sand, sun, and free time. Since we know that our schedule, is pretty much jam packed until Thanksgiving, we're going to take full advantage of the next week!

I might just decide to live on the beach. Or in the water. The cool, clear, blue water. In another life, I'd love to live near the beach. Somewhere were I can smell the salty sea. And look at the crystal blue water. Every single day!

Yes, this is going to be a nice week. And I'm looking forward to a little R&R with the man I love. When you live life as fast and furious as us, it's nice to stop and enjoy the simple things again. And that's our entire plan for the week. There will still be posts. Scheduled posts. So we'll see you next week! ♥

So Pretty!

I'm LOVING this necklace! Does anyone know where it's from? I hope it's from an Etsy Shop. Or something like that. Because I seriously want one. Yes, I do! I just don't know what it is. But lately, I've really been drawn to fun pieces like this. I'd appreciate any help trying to find this beauty. ♥