Capturing Life's Gifts

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Give the Gift of "Experience" with Goldfish Swim School!

Give the Gift of “Experience” with Goldfish Swim School!

The holiday season is in full swing and we’re rushing around trying to figure out that “perfect” gift for our loved ones, which if you ask me can be quite tough these days. Since having a little one I am truly focusing on experiences that we can have together. Either by making memories that will last a lifetime, or something that I knowwill benefit my little guy throughout his life. If I think…

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There’s something about getting a homemade ornament for Christmas from little hands that have created it (along with a little elf who ends up putting it all together! ;)) This diy project came from the inspiration of a “popsicle stick” ornament idea. It’s a classic craft activity for little ones, but here’s the kicker I actually didn’t have any on hand and after a trip to the Dollar Tree and Walgreens, they didn’t have any either… so I gave up and we just used sticks instead! The idea of “sticks” came from my little guy who loves to play with them all the time.

It turned out to be a fun activity for my little guy and we definitely made memories along the way. So, good news for our family members…you’re all getting an ornament for Christmas! I know I spoiled the surprise, but couldn’t stop myself from sharing! 🙂 (working on that delayed gratification over here, always  a hard one for me!)

I wanted the end result to be delicate and classy looking, so I pulled out the “special paints” and let my little guy go at it! We went with the color combination of

g r e e n

w h i t e

g o l d

There’s something majestic about this color combination during the holidays! We collected sticks in our front yard (yes, probably still from Hurricane Irma) and while my little guy was sleeping I went away to hot gluing them together to make the formation of little tress! Once he woke up we had fun painting them!

After the stick trees dried I placed a lace bow ribbon on top using hot glue to adhere it and then I found cork board that I used as the “stem” of the tree! I used twine and tied it around the top of the sticks as the “hook” for hanging on the Christmas tree! I’ve collected quite of few handy diy items over this past year and it just so happened I had “gold duct tape” which I used to adhere Little Johnny’s picture (the hot glue didn’t work well for me).

By the way! If you’re wondering the size of the picture that I used I went with purchasing them at Walgreens using the app on my phone. I selected the “8 X 10” and then divided it into 4 sections where I uploaded the same photo all 4 times.

This is another craft that is going down as a “favorite” in my book! I think it has much to do with the memory I made with my little guy!

What is a favorite holiday memory you have with your children?

Wishing you well,

DIY Friday~ Homemade Picture Tree Ornament There's something about getting a homemade ornament for Christmas from little hands that have created it (along with a little elf who ends up putting it all together!

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There’s something about the naturalistic characteristics of wood, pine, and cork that’s enticing. Throw in heirloom white spray paint along with a touch of gold and you have  simplistic but yet eye catching Christmas decor. The rustic feel with that “shiny” look definitely taunts your eyes. You wonder how something so simple can make you want to stare at it for a while. I guess it goes with the saying “less is more”.

To be honest I have been feeling that statement much throughout my own life. I have started to simplify my decor along with setting more intentions on a simple daily routine. Being more mindful of things and also focusing in on what matters are definitely goals I am starting to aquire for myself. So where does this tie in with decor? Well, let’s just say much of how you represent your home sets a tone for your everyday emotions. Think about when you step inside of a home that is updated and decorated to your style…there’s something about that moment that sends a burst of “happy feelings”.

The white, bright, and natural look is definitely something that is coming back in style. Have you been to Hobby Lobby, Jo-Anns, or Michaels? Yeah…I think you catch my drift…Here’s how I added natural and simplistic Christmas decor. And YES, I am the weird person who goes outside and picks sticks to incorporate into my home decor…maybe the inspiration is from my almost 2 year old who loves finding sticks…either way, they add a wonderful touch to our home! 🙂

I used these two colors below to spray paint the sticks. There’s something about the off white color and bright gold that makes things pop. I also used the heirloom white to a update some of my decor such as the star holder on our shelf divider between the kitchen and living room. Spray paint seriously goes a long way in updating your home without having to spend too much. #budgetfriendly most definitely!

A few weeks back I also made a rustic “JOY” sign that is displayed in our living room. You can watch the video below to see the process in how I made it.

How do you decorate your home for Christmas? I hope you are enjoying this holiday season!

Wishing you well,

  Simplistic Christmas Decorations for a Small Home There's something about the naturalistic characteristics of wood, pine, and cork that's enticing. Throw in heirloom white spray paint along with a touch of gold and you have  simplistic but yet eye catching Christmas decor.

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Thanksgiving Tradition: Gratitude Wine Corks

Thanksgiving Tradition: Gratitude Wine Corks

Thanksgiving never was my favorite holiday growing up, but as I get older I cherish that day where I can really reflect on what I am thankful for in the year passing. While pumpkin pies, turkey, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole,  and sweet potato casserole (my fav) are all enticing…it’s that question “What are you thankful for?” that is starting to become the tradition I look forward to.…

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There is something about sorting through craft supplies when suddenly an idea pops into your head of a unique way to reuse them.  Recently Little Johnny and I were rummaging through my craft supplies when I came across some mason jar lids and clothespins. I started messing around with them trying to see if I could configure some type of home decor item. First of all, I have been wanting a round coffee table for a while, (don’t ask why, it’s just something that has been on my mind…) 🙂 So, I guess with that fresh on my mind I thought why not make mini round tables with clothespins as the legs. YOU ALL! It totally worked! I now have 3 cute mini round tables displayed throughout my home which serve as multiple purposes. Don’t judge by my enthusiasm of this very small joy in my life, but it’s definitely the little things that give me excitement! 🙂

So I clipped on the clothespins to the mason jar lids for them to act as legs and… WAH…LAH! My very own round table! (One day I’ll get that round coffee table that I have my mind dead set on!) 🙂  It can hold tea lights, name cards for the Thanksgiving table, or simply just giving decor items that extra height. The possibilities are endless with these little guys! 🙂 Now, I’m not one to just leave something without that extra painted touch, so of course I went ahead and stained the “legs” and spray painted the “table top” to give a feel of warmth and distressed. Metallic gold with a brush of heirloom white along with dark stained “legs” will do the trick!

Tell me. what is something in your life that truly helps you to “unplug” from the world? What makes your mind just wonder off and not worry about the stress of life? We all have that “something”, and for me it’s definitely focusing on DIY projects. It’s a stress reliever and while I know it’s not for everyone I try to incorporate super easy projects that anyone can make! This is for sure on the top of my list for easy projects!

Mini Round Tables Made From Mason Jar Lids 

{Supplies}

For 3 sets

3 mason jar lids

9 clothespins

metallic gold spray paint

heirloom white spray paint

base primer (optional)

walnut wood stain

hot glue gun

paint brush (for the dry brush technique that makes the edges look “distressed”)

{Steps}

1.Spray paint the 2 parts of your mason jar lids the metallic gold color.

2.While the lids are drying, stain the clothespins (I just dipped it into the can and then used a rag to wipe off the access. It was just easier and it made sure to stain all parts of the clothespins.)

  3.After the mason jar lids have dried a bit (I probably waited about 30 minutes) take the heirloom white spray paint and lightly spray the paint brush. You don’t need very much paint on it, just enough to apply the dry brush technique to the outer rim part of the mason jar lid. Simply take the brush and lightly brush the edges. You don’t want the whole rim to be painted the heirloom white, just enough so that the metallic gold still pops out. I left the inner part the smooth metallic gold finish. The contrast of the two colors look great! 

4. Take the hot glue gun and attach the two pieces of the mason jar lid.

5. Make sure your clothespins are dried and then simply clip then onto the mason jar lids.

That’s it! You now have a mini round table! I hope you can find a place for these little guys in your own home. While they seem so simple they truly add just the simplest  unique touch to your home decor!

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P.S. If you want to view another way I upcycled mason jar lids, check out my >>DIY pumpkin<<

Wishing you well! 

  DIY Friday: Mini Round Table Display Made From Mason Jar Lids There is something about sorting through craft supplies when suddenly an idea pops into your head of a unique way to reuse them. 

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The Florida Morehouse family had an exciting and eventful weekend! Little Johnny saw Sesame Street Live, which was the best experience we have had with him yet! Big John had many classes going on over at our gym (Glory Martial Arts) and I was even able to sneak in a fun DIY project that I will share on my #diyfriday post!

So with the busy weekend behind us, we’re ready to tackle the week ahead! I have decided to share with you all a fun, easy, and engaging activity that our 1 year old has really enjoyed!

“It takes a big heart (and A LOT of PATIENCE) to teach little minds”. This statement cannot be any more true, don’t you think?! Did you know that as a parent you are your child’s first teacher? We tend to get caught in the norm that teaching is done in a classroom and at a specific age, which is definitely not true! We can find teaching moments throughout everyday life, especially when we have little ones running around us!

“Don’t underestimate the power of little minds. Toddlers will surprise you when given the opportunity to showcase their learning capabilities”

Recently I have noticed how Little Johnny has been so interested in numbers, especially with counting. He loves all the songs that have to do with counting…you know the ones (5 little monkeys is a big hit!) His little “counting” finger goes up in the air as he points it out and tries his hardest to keep to the beat. It made me think that I should probably start some type of counting activity that we can “try” to incorporate everyday into our routine.

Here’s the thing about toddlers…they love anything that is repetitive! But seriously, why?! As a parent I tend to get bored with the same things over, and over, and over again…although, there is so much good behind those “repetitive behaviors” Below is a great article explaining the reasoning behind why toddlers crave repetition and adults love variety.  It really helped me to understand that repetition is okay and I just need to “get over myself” with always wanting variety. 🙂

Why Toddlers LOVE Repetition

I had to actually stop myself from overwhelming my little guy because I’m totally guilty of using Pinterest and I pin so many cute activities, but then I have to remember he’s only 1 years old! So, while these activities may seem fun, I always have to ask myself “Will this overwhelm him?” I’m trying my hardest as I teach my little guy to remember this simple statement. “Less is MORE”, especially when teaching basic concepts.

So, I decided to revert to my old teaching days and incorporate the concept READ, WRITE, BUILD using simple tools such as flash cards, white board, and Legos. We try to do this everyday (although some days get the best of us). I keep the supplies away in a bin with easy pull out drawers so I don’t have to “hunt down” for the supplies. Plus, it gives met he opportunity to have another bin in the house, I’m a tad obsessed with all things related to bins, containers, and baskets…it’s a serious problem! haha

**NOTE: The key words here is “easy” & “REPEAT”! 🙂

READ, WRITE, BUILD: REPEAT

“An Easy Number Activity for Toddlers”

  I stared off slow introducing this concept to him, but as we continued it each day Little Johnny started to anticipate what came next and I am now able to provide less help so that way he can become more independent with it. This activity also teaches little ones “one-t0-one” correspondence meaning that the numbers actually have a value! Example: 1=1 dot 2=2 dots 3=3 dots… and so on. As he gets a bit older I will introduce the number zero as that’s a difficult concept to understand that it actually means “nothing”.

The key here is to “build on” learning the numbers. I started at the very beginning only teaching the number “1” until I saw that he was starting to understand the concept. Then I added on number “2” and so on… We are currently ready to move onto number “4”. Here’s what I look for:

with some support can trace the number on the flash card using his finger

independently point to the items as we count

independently recite the numbers (Johnny needs a little more support with this, but I can see he is definitely trying)

with support write the numbers on the white board (hand over hand approach)

with support build the numbers using Legos (This concept will move onto a more independent approach as he progresses and it is one of the hardest concepts, which is why teaching them as toddlers is beneficial.)

{Supplies}

1. Flash cards with numbers and corresponding numbered objects

I bought mine at Target in the Dollar Section, but I found some similar on amazon. Here’s the link! —> number flash cards

2. White board & dry erase marker

You can purchase one or make it out of a picture frame from the Dollar Tree! I added the color construction paper as the “background” because we’re currently working on the color green and I can switch it out depending on what color we are learning about. Also, I like that it has edges on the side to prevent those little hands from drawing all over the table. It acts as a “bumper” for them.

3. Legos

{Activity} 

READ

First, start with reading the number by saying the name and counting the objects. These were the best pictures I could get of us in action! 🙂

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WRITE

Next, use “hand-over-hand” approach and help your toddler write the number with the corresponding dots. Little Johnny loves to draw on the dry erase board, so I give him time to “practice” writing it himself. Then we say “bye bye (and state number)” which he then erases it with a paint brush. Did you know that will do the trick with acting as an eraser for a dry erase board? We didn’t either and just found that out! haha 🙂

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BUILD

Last, use Legos and have the flash cards laid out to “build” the numbers. There is a lot of support given here!

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Repeat this process with each number along with trying to incorporate it each day and your little one will soon start learning their numbers in a fun way!

**NOTE- Make sure you are in control of the supplies. I like putting them off to the side and bringing them out one by one so that way he is not distracted.

What are other counting activities you have tried at home with your toddler or preschooler?

P.S. We have an easy shape activity, letter activity, and color activity that I may be sharing in a future post!

Wishing you well,

~Amanda

  Read, Write, Build: REPEAT “An Easy Number Activity for Toddlers” The Florida Morehouse family had an exciting and eventful weekend! Little Johnny saw Sesame Street Live, which was the best experience we have had with him yet!

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Oink…Neigh…Moo….Did you know we have one of the most amazing petting farms within the Central Florida area? Well, it’s true! On a “fall like day” in Florida (which we all know is rare), we spent it outside exploring Green Meadows Petting Farm. It was our first experience with our little ones in enjoying a “hands-on” adventure while learning and interacting with so many animals…AND we can’t forget about the amazing train ride and tractor ride! Choo Choo…

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When you enter into the farm you are blown away by how big it is and the many activities that are offered! We packed our lunches and spent a full day at the farm! Our little ones loved every minute of it! Their little eyes lit up by all the amazing activities they encountered. So, are you thinking a family day here would be fun for you as well? Well…Guess what?! I have the privilege to giveaway 2 FREE adult tickets! I’ll help plan your visit with the details and then you can enter the GIVEAWAY located at the bottom of the page! Let’s get started…

(P.S.-If you have been before then you know how much fun it is, so make sure to scroll to the bottom and enter in the GIVEWAY for 2 FREE adult tickets!)

Location, Hours, & Rates

LOCATION

1368 South Poinciana Blvd. Kissimmee, FL 34746

Hours

9:30am–4:00pm

*last tour starts at 2:30pm

The admission includes a 2 1/2 hour guided tour of the farm led by a friendly staff member!

Rates

General Admission (Age 13—Adult) $23

Florida Resident $21

Age 3—12 $20

Senior (62+) and Military $19

Age 2 $5

If you want more information on these details, then click here to visit their website.

A Brief History

 Did you know that Green Meadows Petting Farm has more than 1 location? You can find it in other states as well! My home state is Wisconsin, and guess what? The original farm originated back in 1964 in Waterford, WI!

OTHER LOCATIONS

Floral Park, NY www.visitgreenmeadowsfarm.com

Hazlet, NJ www.greenmeadowschildrensfarm.com

Urbana, MD www.greenmeadowsevents.com

Waterford, WI www.greenmeadowsfarmwi.com

Sherwood, WI www.mulberrylanefarmwi.com

What’s included in the guided tour?

When you enter onto the farm you’re greeted by the welcoming staff along with a cute General Store and fun fall displays, which is a perfect opportunity to take those fall photos if you haven’t done so already. In this post I’m relating it to the fall season, but the farm is most definitely open all year long!

On the guided tour the tour guide takes you through the farm on all kinds of learning adventures about their animals! So many opportunities to interactive with the farm animals! This is a place that definitely explores many of our senses, which is a perfect learning environment for all children (and adults)!

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On the farm you will…

Learn all about pigs, cows, goats, sheep, chickens, turkeys, donkeys, Elmer—our Asian water buffalo and more!

hold baby chicks and chickens

Milk a cow!

Train ride

Pony rides for children

Tractor-drawn hayride

Picnic areas for those bringing a lunch

Drinks and snacks available at The General Store

*This is all included with the price of your admission ticket, no added costs for the train rides, tractor rides, or pony rides.

Extras 

Green Meadows also offers fun playground experiences for children! There are playgrounds, slides, and fun climbing adventures throughout the whole farm! After the guided tour it was a perfect opportunity for our little ones to let our their energy and have a blast playing together!

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Recommendations 

After experiencing a day on the farm here is some feedback I gathered to make your trip even better!

Plan on spending a full day on the farm! I would recommend getting there earlier in the day so you can experience everything they have to offer!

Pack a lunch! While they do have a General Store, mostly the food items are snacks.

If you have little ones either bring a stroller or you can purchase a wagon for $5. (which was a big hit with our little ones) The farm is huge and their little feet may need a break every now and then.

Wear comfortable shoes and clothing!

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When will you be visiting the farm?

It truly is a fun filled day that will leave you with wonderful family memories!

Click the link below to enter the GIVEAWAY for 2 FREE adult tickets to Green Meadows Farm in Kissimmee, FL!

>>GIVEAWAY<<

Start Date: Monday, October 30th, 2017

End Date: Thursday, November 3rd, 2017 at 11:59 pm

Make sure to connect with them on social media for upcoming events! 

Facebook 

Instagram

Wishing you well,

~Amanda

Outdoor Adventure at Green Meadows Petting Farm in Central Florida Oink...Neigh...Moo....Did you know we have one of the most amazing petting farms within the Central Florida area?

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There’s something about taking a Sunday and spending it on home projects, especially when it has to do with home decor. That’s exactly what I did while the boys went fishing! 🙂 I’m a big fan of the ever so popular “farmhouse style” and I have been trying to add bits of this inspiration into my kitchen. These days we’ve been on a strict budget, and while I realize there are so many stores you can purchase this style from, I have to really watch my pennies…which leads me to…

Dollar Tree

Did you know that you can purchase a few items here that will give your kitchen that “farmhouse swag” during the fall season?

Here’s the thing about decorating…most of the time many knick knack items only last for a couple years because for 1. they go “out of style” and 2. you may just simply get bored of them. That’s why I love how there is  a place that offers decor items on a budget (sometimes you need to spruce it up a bit by adding spray paint to it, but that’s totally okay and it’s still cheaper in the end.)

We all have our things that make us happy or gives us relief from the stress of life, along with acting as a “form of therapy”. Well, decorating is definitely mine. I use to think that the actual house itself is what makes the place feel like a home, but that’s not the case…it’s the personal touches and specified spaces that each individual gives their personal touch to. We build, mold, and form our home with characteristics of who we are through the items that we display.

“There is a big difference between a “house” and a “home”. A house is some sort of shelter, but a HOME is where you display the personality of your family and characteristics of your life, a representation of your style.

I find so much joy from making my own decor and styling the arrangements throughout my home. Everyday I find myself starring at them and smiling, knowing that this is where my little family is making memories with sprinklings of my own touches.

Do you ever look at a wall, or space within your home and say “This needs updating”. I said that to myself while starring at my kitchen walls. It seemed a bit dark and some of the colors just didn’t go with the look I wanted, so I took the initiative and made some changes. With a fun trip to the Dollar Tree and a car ride around my neighborhood looking for “free wood”, I was able to transform a wall in my kitchen from “blah… to farmhouse swag” and all for under $10.

How to Decorate “Farmhouse Style” on a Budget

Here’s a few tips when decorating “Farmhouse Style”

Mixing the old with the new

add fresh crisp bright colors

find unique knick knacks, such as a lantern, ceramic mug, and of course mason jars

Add a few wood pieces to the mix (especially lettered signs)

mix in some distressed pieces

Let’s start with how I achieved my own wood sign!

I found this piece of wood on the side of the road, so this project was FREE for me because I already had the white paint as well! I used a stencil to apply the letters, then using sand paper I lightly sanded the letters to make it look “distressed”. I love the end result..SIMPLE, but makes such a statement.

Next, updating boxed shelves….

I had these shelves forever, but I did not like how dark they made the kitchen look, and currently “dark wood” is not the style anymore. So, I decided to spray paint them with a light and bright color. I actually mixed bright white paint with another color called “butterfly wings”just to soften the look up. Don’t be afraid to mix your own paint with colors you already have! 🙂

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Fun Knick Knacks! 

The only items that weren’t purchased from the Dollar Tree were the pumpkins, and corn. These items add such a statement without being overwhelming. The key is to make it look simple.

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End Result! 

P.S. If you want to see how I made my own upcycled wood frame, click here to view my tutorial! I also have a tutorial for a chalkboard menu made out of a clipboard. Click here to view it!

What’s your kitchen style?

Wishing you well,

~Amanda

Weekend Projects: Tips on Decorating “Farmhouse Style” on a Budget There's something about taking a Sunday and spending it on home projects, especially when it has to do with home decor.

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DIY Friday~Distressed Pumpkins Made From Mason Jar Lids

DIY Friday~Distressed Pumpkins Made From Mason Jar Lids

Many people have asked me: Where do you get your inspiration from? I have three answers..

1. Pinterest

2. Craft Stores

 3. Magazines

But let’s face it…Pinterest being the absolute #1!

Even as a DIY blogger I “pin” items to boards and dream about all the creativity that is within this wonderful world of Pinterest. (I mean come on, people plan their weddings from it…so it has to be great!) I’ve…

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Long Term Experience with Goldfish Swim School

Long Term Experience with Goldfish Swim School

When you think of swim lessons (especially in Florida) your mind immediately goes to summer! Well, that season is in the past and we’re moving onto the shorter days, less traveling, and hopefully a little cooler weather. Although, at Goldfish Swim School swim season is all year long!

We’ve been swimming away with Goldfish Swim Schoolfor a few months now and as a parent I can see so many benefits…

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Have you ever hear the statement-“When you build up your spices in the kitchen cabinet, cooking becomes easier and more cost-efficient.” Well, we can apply this same idea to crafting/DIYing! Although, it’s more like fabric pieces, gems, hot glue gun, ribbons, and the list goes one… I have built up solid “basics” of craft supplies and I thought it would be fun to use what I have and create a “fall inspired” centerpiece for my coffee table.

The Florida Morehouse family had a stay at home kind of weekend. Little Johnny came down with a cold, which he needed rest days to recuperate (although, he had all the energy in the world, just with snot hanging down his nose! haha) This led me to getting a few fun projects done around the house. (Especially all things pumpkin related!) October is my all time favorite month (it may have something to do with it being my birthday month, just saying…) To me it marks the time of year where the “seasonal activities” are embarking. 

There’s quite a bit to offer in this post, and I should probably break it up into two parts, but here’s the honest truth…I’ve tried doing that before which it’s quite hard for me to come back to it later. My motto is get it done all at once, mainly because I tend to be scattered brained where my mind gets off track to other projects. Although, it’s a great post that allows you to pick and choose different decorating techniques to incorporate in your home, especially since they’re easy and budget friendly!

You may think I’m a bit crazy with decorating while there are little hands and toys spread out around our home, but I’m a mama that like to decorate and while I realize our little guy may rearrange things, I’m totally okay with that. It’s these small decorating moments that give me that boost of excitement in life! (Along with  $2.99 mums at Aldi!)

“I have pretty areas in my home that I admire, but I also have toys spread across the floor along with a trail of snack crumbs…and I’m okay with that. It’s a season of my life that I will one day miss, but that’s not stopping me from fulfilling my love of decorating!”

Anyways, grab a hot cup of coffee and get cozy (or in our case, turn up the air conditioning and “pretend” it’s fall weather) and follow me as I take you through this tour of my “Budget Friendly” Fall Inspired Coffee Table Centerpiece.

Below you’ll find the pictures with links and detailed descriptions on how I managed to create the staging of my coffee table centerpiece.

This is an upcycled project! Here I have a tiki torch where I took out the tin and replaced it with a mason jar along with artificial flowers and a foam ball to give it more height! I love the frame of the torch and the height it gives.

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Any guesses as to where I purchase this artificial plant? YES, the one and only Ikea! I have had this plant for about 4 years (and probably the only one I will ever keep “alive” this long…haha!) Here’s a great tip if you’re seeking budget friendly advice…use just a few pieces from the plant and disburse throughout your house. Seriously, no one will ever know! This picture was taken after I pulled off the pieced I needed…can you tell?! (I didn’t think so…) 😉

The above picture is a “no-sew” pumpkin that I created within 15 minutes. It was so easy and it adds great detail along with adding different textures immersed in the display. (I’m a big fan of decorating with textures if you haven’t noticed…haha) Click the link below to watch a youtube tutorial that helped me!

>>>No-Sew Pumpkin Tutorial<<<

This pumpkin is another upcycled project using mason jar lids! Stay tuned for a DIY Friday post where I’ll take you through the steps!

I love decorating with books or magazines! Here’s a trick…checkout hardcover magazines from the library depending on the season you are in! It adds more color along with height to your display.

What’s your favorite “fall inspired” decor item?

Let’s get to decorating!

Wishing you well, 

~Amanda

“Budget Friendly” Fall Inspired Coffee Table Centerpiece Have you ever hear the statement-"When you build up your spices in the kitchen cabinet, cooking becomes easier and more cost-efficient." Well, we can apply this same idea to crafting/DIYing!

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Well, fall is officially here! Maybe not so much in the weather for us, since it’s still 90 degrees outside, BUT definitely in the home decor! Here’s a big secret from a DIY mama…some days Little Johnny and I go into my favorite craft store and just walk around while I search for inspiration. As an added bonus, did you know that craft stores are a great place for kids to explore their senses?! We currently love the huge flowers at Hobby Lobby, it’s Little Johnny’s fav…and probably how I convince him to go. 🙂

What’s a fall trend that you have been seeing lately? (Even Magnolia Market sells them.)

Cotton Stems!

(or cotton flowers)

Have you ever gone into a home decor store and thought to yourself…”this looks like something I could make?” I say that to myself quite often and this time I took it to the next level by actually creating my own! YOU ALL! This project was so easy, and very cost-efficient. You probably have $1 right now in your wallet, (which is how much it cost to make this).

DIY Cotton Stems 

{Supplies}

2 pine cones

2 branches

12 cotton balls

hot glue gun

The only item I purchased were the cotton balls, hence the $1 (although you may already have some stashed away in your closet). The rest of the supplies came from the outdoors.

{Steps}

I created another video where I share with you all the details. Make sure to click below to watch and feel free to leave a comment, or even subscribe. It’s always scary taking a leap as a blogger, but I felt it was time to move to the next level with my DIY projects (plus, we all know everyone loves watching videos.)

What fall decor item is your favorite this season? 

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Here’s to pumpkin spiced everything, bonfires, fresh baked pies, and cozy sweater weather! 🙂 Maybe you can try this for a weekend project?!

Wishing you well, 

~Amanda

DIY Friday~ Home Decor Cotton Stem for $1 Well, fall is officially here! Maybe not so much in the weather for us, since it's still 90 degrees outside, 

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Seeking to Live Those Simple Days & My Favorite Apple Crumble Recipe

Seeking to Live Those Simple Days & My Favorite Apple Crumble Recipe

I have this vision that life is supposed to play out a certain way. I focus hard on wanting it to be something that may not be in the works at the moment. I’m guilty of envisioning the life where we have days that are “free” from work and we’re able to sit on our front porch with our favorite drinks, while just enjoying each other as we breathe in the fresh air and leave all the stress behind.

Re…

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Not sure if it’s the release of Hearth & Hand by Magnolia that will be coming to Target soon, OR just the simple fact that I love upcycling items. (especially when they’re free) Recently I created my now favorite upcycled DIY project. Much of the inspiration came from Joanna Gaines. (gosh, I love this lady, anyone else?) I needed to find out how I could make my own wood frame wreath decor, but at a low cost (because have you gone to the store lately and seen the prices?!)

My inspiration

(source: https://www.etsy.com/market/birch_bark)

I have been on the search for rustic wooden frames (or old wood window frames), but I haven’t had any luck (mainly because I’m looking for them to either be free or at a very budget friendly cost!) A few weeks ago I was at Ace Hardware picking up primer and I spotted the paint stir sticks sitting in the corner. Here’s the great thing about stir sticks….

1. They’re FREE

2. They’re WOOD

I had this notion that somehow I could turn these into a decor project for my small home. So…I asked the cashier if I could take as many as I wanted and her response was “Of course, they’re free aren’t they!” (My kind of cashier!) 😉 I honestly didn’t know what type of project I was going to create at the moment, but I knew something great could be made out of these simple stir sticks. I saw the p o t e n t i a l.

It was the week after Hurricane Irma when our power was still out and I was getting restless. Little Johnny was napping, my house was dirty, and starting to smell, but it was impossible to clean in the FL heat…so, I decided I needed to release my tension by getting my creative juices flowing. I went outside and stared at these stir sticks for a while, then it hit me (probably because I’ve been watching Fixer Upper lately…) these sticks can be used as a frame! I pulled out my stain, wood glue, paint brush, and away I went in creating a wooden frame!

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So much joy I found the moment I brought this frame inside of my house where it hung perfectly in my kitchen. I honestly felt the release of some stress flow away from me…We all have our “things” that help us to feel better and I finally have found mine. I focus so hard on these DIY projects, which for those moments, the fear, anxiety, and overall life problems seem to just drift away…

I seriously gloat over this beautiful frame every morning when I drink my coffee and remind myself of that “stress free” moment I had when creating it. (I know, “it’s just a frame”, but to me it was the actual experience in making it.) If you’ve been wondering about the name of my blog (capturing life’s gifts) much of it has to do with the fact that I have finally “captured” my own personal gifts that life has to offer…one of them is pulling out my inner creativity…

Upcycled Wood Frame: Using Stir Sticks 

{Supplies}

4 wood stir sticks

wood glue (or a hot glue gun)

stain

very accent paint color (I went with a slate blue)

paint brush

{Steps} 

This time I created a video that includes the steps, since it was such an easy project. If you like the video, let me know so I can plan on doing more videos on easy DIY Home Decor projects!

Thanks for following along and I hope this inspired your creativity!

Happy DIYing!

Wishing you well,

~Amanda

DIY Friday~ Not sure if it's the release of Hearth & Hand by Magnolia that will be coming to Target soon, …

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Sometimes you need a good Sunday outing to get yourself back into high spirits. With the passing of Hurricane Irma life has been chaotic and nerve-racking. The built up of anticipation and preparation drained everything out of us (especially me). I am thankful that we didn’t endure any significant damage as I know so many people have (continually praying for them everyday). We were without power for a few days, but that was nothing compared to what other went through.

Now we are s l o w l y  trying to get our lives back into the groove of things. This past Sunday was a much needed time to get away for a bit. Little Johnny just got over being sick and he was restless (as was I). While Big John was at work for most of the day I decided to treat Little Johnny and myself to a day out in Mount Dora, FL (the cutest little town I have yet to come across here in FL).

My intention was to attend an event held by Renninger’s Florida Twin Markets, although it ended up getting cancelled due to the damage from the hurricane. So, instead I discovered the best Antique Market and spent some time strolling down the Marketplace and soaking in all the beauty from the old treasures. I did not end up buying anything, but I sure wanted to! 🙂

After a while Little Johnny was getting antsy, which what better way to fix that than ice cream, right?! 😉 So, we ventured over to an ice cream shop and found an amazing park for him to play at. In my terms that was a Sunday Funday  for us! We even found time in the evening when Big John got off work to fish over at Lake Ivanhoe. Little Johnny is becoming a pro as casting! I loved seeing his little hands “reel” in the fish (lots of support by daddy). 🙂 It’s truly the small joys in life that help to lift up your spirits up nowadays.

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Onto the DIY Kids’ Chalkboard Table…

A while back I started this project and all that needed to be done was painting the pallets (which are used for the legs) along with attaching the table top. Well..it’s been a few weeks now and I have yet to post about my “part 2”. (Here’s the link for “part 1” if you missed reading it!) They say that completing a project in “mom time” takes you double the time, I can attest to this! Most days it’s hard to find moments for my DIY projects, but I’m not letting that stop me from actually completing them. I have come to terms that it’s just going to take me a bit longer, and that’s okay.

Here’s a secret…I’m still not actually done, but it’s “done enough” where Little Johnny can use it and I can share with you all about it. What’s missing is I need to fill the holes on the table top where Big John helped me attach it to the pallets. Not sure why I’m holding off on this, but eventually it will get done.

On my social media accounts I had people vote for the paint color of the pallets, which butterfly wings was the winner! I’m glad it was because I was leaning toward that choice too! This paint was leftover from Little Johnny’s nursery, which painting the pallets with a traditional brush  would have taken much longer (and like I said I’m in “mom time” mode), so instead I was given this amazing gift by my Aunt…a paint sprayer! Best thing out there, hands down! If you’re a DIYer like me, please but this on your list of tools to purchase (no, this is not sponsored…I just really like it!)

What do you think? Is this something you could see yourself making?

Here’s to the week ahead!

Wishing you well,

~Amanda

Weekend Recap & Part 2 of DIY Kids’ Chalkboard Table Sometimes you need a good Sunday outing to get yourself back into high spirits. With the passing of Hurricane Irma life has been chaotic and nerve-racking.

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What better way to start off the Fall season than hanging a Fall inspired wreath right on your own front door. I figured since today officially marks the beginning of September, it’s a perfect time to pull out those Fall decorations. Although as I write this to you, it’s 93 degrees outside! Definitely not “feeling” that Fall weather, but no worries I’m making my own vibes over here.

Fall is my absolute favorite season, it’s the time of year that I truly wish we were living back up in the Midwest. I miss the feeling of that crisp breeze, the smell of bonfires & burning leaves, and being able to see the “changing of colors”.  Oh yeah, don’t forget about the taste buds with pumpkin spice everything! 😉

You’re probably expecting the “Part 2” of my DIY Kids’ Table…well I sort of got side tracked and still have to write up the post along with finishing the top part (wood fill and another coat of chalkboard paint)…squirrel anyone…my mind is sometimes on a million things at once and I tend to be scattered brained, but that’s okay I’m enjoying all these projects so much!

Speaking of scattered brained…back to the actual post. You all know I’m a big fan of the Dollar Tree and you know what section is my absolute favorite? Their flower arrangements! There are so many great supplies at such a low price where you can make your own wreath. I have been wanting to make one for a while and what better way to start with a new season. By the way, I could totally see this for sale at your local Hobby Lobby. 🙂

$6 DIY Fall Wreath

{Supplies}

4 of your favorite flowers/fall decor. (try to go within the same “hue” of colors)

wreath

small picture frame

hot glue gun

**NOTE: At a last minute decision I added burlap and adhesive letters to the supplies.

{Steps}

1.I actually used burlap to wrap the flower arrangements into a bouquet and then hot glued it to the wreath.

2. I pulled apart the pumpkins and cut off the excess stem.

3. Then I hot glued the pumpkin arrangement to the opposite side of the flower arrangement.

4. I used the small frame and letter adhesive stickers that I placed on the cardboard found within the frame. I chose to use the word “Fall”.

5. I used hot glue and attached the frame to the wreath.

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That’s it! So easy and I love how I could personalize it to my own style! If you’re more of a “bling” person, the Dollar Tree has sunflowers with gems, which I thought would be beautiful on a wreath!

Happy Fall,friends! Hopefully it’s starting to cool off a bit where you are! If so, blow that breeze down to Florida…I can’t wait to share more fun Fall projects! Enjoy your labor day weekend!

Wishing you well,

~Amanda

DIY Friday~ $5 DIY Fall Wreath What better way to start off the Fall season than hanging a Fall inspired wreath right on your own front door.

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When life gets you down "just keep swimming"

When life gets you down “just keep swimming”

Leave it to a fish with short term memory loss to be brilliant with reciting a famous line, over and over and over again. Words of such simplicity, but so much meaning behind them. Have you ever been in what I call “a funk” and it seems like life is out to get you? Well, that’s where Dory’s famous words come in handy, especially when it’s on continuous repeat in our mind “Just keep swimming, s…

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