BellaSnorts

Stationery card

2012-01-30T14:03:00.001-05:00

Modern Script Girl Birth Announcement

Create beautiful birth announcements with Shutterfly.

View the entire collection of cards.

30 Weeks - Nursery Progress

2011-10-16T10:14:00.000-04:00


Painting the Nursery - Silver Drop - Behr

From Etsy


Baby Mod - Parklane Crib

A little summer

2011-08-17T20:44:00.000-04:00

Week 17 to Week 20

2011-08-04T16:47:00.000-04:00

Yes, it is hot. Hair went bye bye.

My little project.

2011-07-21T19:15:00.000-04:00

Exhibit A:

the reason for being blog absent! Our girl is due around Christmas!

Confession...

2011-05-04T13:55:00.000-04:00

I have not the time or energy latley to update my blog or read any others. Life has just been too busy! Will return shortly with updates!

Happy Heart Day!

2011-02-14T07:29:00.000-05:00

If you have it [Love], you don't need to have anything                        else, and if you don't have it, it doesn't matter much what            else you have. ~ Sir James M. Barrie

I would like to be the air that inhabits you for a moment only. I would like to be that unnoticed and that necessary. ~ Margaret Atwood

Love is a slippery eel that bites like hell. ~ Bertrand Russell

Love begins with a smile, grows with a kiss, and ends with a teardrop. ~ Anonymous

All you need is love - The Beatles

A Valentine's Day Dinner

2011-02-13T15:51:00.000-05:00

On the menu for the one I love:

Rachael Ray's Minestrone

 Gina's Collard Greens

Ina's Bay Scallop Gratin

Rachael Ray's Minestrone

Ingredients

Serves 4

8 cups Parmigiano  and Herb-Fortified Stock

4 Roasted  Tomatoes, chopped,

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, plus some for drizzling

1 (1/8-inch thick) slice prosciutto di Parma, about 1/4 lb, optional

1 onion, chopped

2 to 3 ribs celery, finely chopped

2 carrots, peeled and finely chopped

4 cloves roasted garlic (from roasted tomato recipe), recipe follows

1 red chili pepper, finely chopped or thinly sliced

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 lb small potatoes, chopped or 1 cup small pasta

1 (15 oz.) can cannellini beans, drained

1 (15 to 15.5 oz.) can garbanzo beans, drained

5 oz. fresh, thin green beans, cut into thirds

1 small head escarole or small bundle chard, shredded

Lemon zest

Parmesan cheese, shredded, for topping

Hot, crusty bread for mopping

Directions

Set aside or prepare the stock and roasted tomatoes.

Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium to medium-high heat, add  extra-virgin olive oil, a couple of turns of the pan. Add the prosciutto  and stir a couple of minutes. Add the chopped onions, celery, carrots,  garlic, and chili pepper, season with salt, and pepper. If you are using  potatoes, add them here. If you are using pasta, heat a second medium  pot of water to a boil for the pasta and cook according to package  directions for al dente. Cool the pasta and drizzle with a touch of  extra virgin olive oil. Cover and store separately from the soup.

Cover the pan and sweat the vegetables 10 minutes, stirring  occasionally. Add the cannellini beans, garbanzo beans, prepared stock  and prepared tomatoes. Bring the soup to a boil and add the green beans.  Bring the soup back to a bubble, then turn off the heat and cool the  soup. Store the soup in the refrigerator for a make-ahead meal.

To reheat the soup: Place the soup over medium-high heat. Crisp up  the bread in a warm oven. When the soup comes to a boil, stir in the  cooked pasta, escarole, and a little lemon zest. Turn off the heat when  pasta is warmed through. Serve the soup in shallow bowls and top with  cheese, a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil, and crusty bread alongside  for mopping.

Prep Time: 20 min

Inactive Prep Time: 1 hr

Cook Time: 40 min

Level: Intermediate

Gina's Best Collard Greens

Ingredients

5 bundles collard greens
4 cups salted water
3 large smoked ham hocks
1 cup sugar
Salt
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Directions

 Thoroughly wash collard greens. Be sure to pull leaves apart and  remove any sand. Chop collard greens.

In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of salted water to a simmer. Place smoked ham hocks in  salted water and cover for about 90 minutes. Cook ham hocks until  slightly tender. In the same saucepan, add remaining  ingredients and collard greens.

Cover and cook greens for 1 to 1 1/2 hours.

*Cook's Note: Make sure at least half of ham hocks are covered with water.  If not, add additional water.

Bay Scallop Gratin

Ingredients

6 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
6 large garlic cloves, minced
2 medium shallots, minced
2 ounces thinly sliced prosciutto di Parma, minced
4 tablespoons minced fresh parsley, plus extra for garnish
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 tablespoons Pernod
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
6 tablespoons good olive oil
1/2 cup panko
6 tablespoons dry white wine
2 pound fresh bay scallops
Lemon, for garnish

Directions

    Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Place 6 (6-inch round) gratin  dishes on a sheet pan.
To make the topping, place the butter in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle  attachment (you can also use a hand mixer). With the mixer on low speed,  add the garlic, shallot, prosciutto, parsley,  lemon juice, Pernod, salt, and pepper and mix until combined. With the  mixer still on low, add the olive oil slowly as though making mayonnaise, until combined. Fold  the panko in with a rubber spatula and set aside.
Preheat the broiler, if it's separate from your oven.
Place 1 tablespoon of the wine in the bottom of each gratin scallop and discard.   Pat the  scallops dry with paper towels and distribute them among the 3 dishes.  Spoon the garlic butter evenly over the top  of the scallops. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the topping is golden  and sizzling and the scallops are barely done. If you want the top  crustier, place the dishes under the broiler for 2 minutes, until  browned. Finish with a squeeze of fresh  lemon juice and a sprinkling of chopped parsley and serve immediately  with crusty French bread dish. With a small sharp  knife, remove the white muscle and membrane from the side of each  

Fun with a new tool!

2011-02-05T18:42:00.000-05:00

A snow day

2011-01-27T21:05:00.000-05:00

yum

my neighbor trying hard to get a picture of her son :)

Bella following 

the boys

snow  angels? Nope - snow is to hard

Do you ever have days?

2011-01-26T21:15:00.000-05:00

Those really good hair days, that you haven't done anything special but it turns out the way you want it too?

of course this only happens on days that you won't see anyone 

then you either try and do it the same way the next time 

or try and take a picture of it... 

neither of which works ....

the white stuff

2011-01-26T20:36:00.000-05:00

I like it when we get enough snow that I don't have to question whether I should go into the office or not. 7 inches and counting.

They are calling my name!

2011-01-18T20:46:00.002-05:00

at the end of a long day

they call me

"come pick one of us"

..."ok"

Lonny Mag Love

2011-01-12T12:10:00.001-05:00

Every issue really is a new issue, featuring new and creative design ideas. I just wish I had a house big enough to implement all of these ideas. See the latest issue here: Lonny Mag Jan/Feb 2011

Here are a few of their latest:

Getting very sleepy....

2011-01-03T19:51:00.000-05:00

And you thought it was only children that fell asleep like this.

Basket Case - Laundry

2011-01-02T20:05:00.002-05:00

At least a bin case

While doing my domestic duties today --

I wanted to share with you what my laundry room is not!

Not calm, cool and collected like Life in the Fun Lane

Not warm and creative like House of Smiths

Photo courtesy of Sarah Richardson

or Laid back and confident like the former Young House Love's Laundry..

Nope, mine looks like utter chaos

So what to do?

Quick trip to Five Below and pick up these bins.

Pull everything out of the closet,

including these items I have purchased using coupons :)

Clean the room

- yuk that was gross.

attempt to take a pic or it all

-wait honey don't walk....

OK lets try that again

Put it all back (or at least what actually belongs in there)

Cleaning Center

-check

Laundry Care Kit

-check

Extra items neatly placed on the shelves.

-check

Remove the bracket for the old dirt devil,

which didn't work and went in the trash.

-no check (see the ugly gray thing on the wall?) - on tomorrows list

Still dreaming of

But I can live with clean and functional for now..

(other pictures from Apartment Therapy)

I have a Kinky little secret.....

2011-01-02T15:58:00.001-05:00

A very kinky one, depending on the weather. Today is a mild day.

Its called Curly Hair. In fact I went back an tried to find pics with my curly hair. Not many to be found.

In an effort to take better care of me, I will include my hair in this.

This year I vow to use less of my Chi iron (oh poor Chi), use less hair spray, straightening serum, straightening gel, mouse, frizz ease and other damaging products to my curls!

I heard some one once say that your twenties you are trying to find out who you are....

Me at 28 in Vegas- great straight hair climate!

And in your thirties, you accept who you are and start enjoying it....

This is me, kinky secret and all. I am starting to enjoy it!

To some

2010-12-31T13:23:00.000-05:00

To some, the new year brings resolutions of unlivable goals.

For me, besides all of the obvious like wishing for world peace

(hopefully that doesn't fall completely into the unattainable area).

I have a resolution to take care of what is important

my health

my family

and our home

Happy New Year!

2010-12-31T12:54:00.000-05:00

"These go to 11"

2010-12-30T20:51:00.001-05:00

Ehhh, who care if its blurry, it will only be in the house for the next 10 minutes.

Taking her out -

DH: You know I can help you with this, but you have to wait till I change clothes.

ME: But, I didn't want to wait. (typical answer from me)

Packed up and ready to put away!

Ahhh the living room is starting to look more normal

wait I am missing my new books

Ok this area isin't so clean yet, but getting there...

Of course she goes to 11.

Out you go! In with a clean house for 2011.

So the holidays are over, is it spring yet?

2010-12-27T21:19:00.000-05:00

Not there yet, but I look forward to long hot days like these...

An Entry- Updated!

2010-12-09T10:00:00.002-05:00

Thanks to Chris Kauffman over at Just Beachy for inspiration and support, I knew after chatting with her that I could accomplish the look I wanted in our basement. From dark and drab (no natural light source) to warm and inviting. Thanks Chris.

Before:

First attempt at painting the entry 2007. You can see the old carpet that was stained and lacked contrast with the wall color.

Painted again in November 2008 and put in new carpets and laminate

After:

2010 Update of Wainscoting

THEN & NOW:

THEN

NOW

Keep It Simple - Guest Bedroom

2010-12-06T22:16:00.000-05:00

Simple

Clean

Not a lot of fuss

Say Hello to my little friend!

2010-12-06T21:50:00.002-05:00

I have loved this mirror for a while, so much so that I purchased it and put it in the closet for 6 months.. eeeh

O.K. I did finally get off my rump and hung it.

Good news, I still love it!

UP.... the tree that is

2010-11-28T19:29:00.001-05:00

Here is the start of the rest of the decor

I made these on Saturday night!

This is my grandmothers tea cup and saucer and I just hung this shelf
(purchased from Hobby Lobby)

Our new eat in kitchen table arrived Saturday (chairs still to come)

"Organize" for the Holidays

2010-11-21T19:47:00.000-05:00

Well... it was my intention to get "organized" before my actual holiday decor day (black Friday). What I ended up with is a disaster for a dining room.. Oh well....

Why spend the $$ when you can make it!

2010-11-05T08:06:00.000-04:00

Totally inspired by Ana White over at Knock Off Wood has made me think twice before buying something super cute like this Picket Fence Coat Rack at JCPenney.com

Why would you spend 60$ when you could easily make this on your own!?

A little mid-week re-org

2010-11-04T20:59:00.000-04:00

Emptied this cabinet

all of these glasses - seriously for two people that's crazy

here is what I had left over that I didn't put back - getting recycled or stored for later

here is the after

Bad before shot of the dishes cabinet

(I was to lazy to get my camera and just used my phone)

Pulled everything out and started to put things back

here is the after

yes I still have my ramekin section - I love small bowls

Here is the most useless cabinet ever (before)

I have to get on all 4's to reach in to it

here is the most useless cabinet #2 (before)

Here are the after shots

Bathroom Tile Option- Green

2010-10-29T09:23:00.000-04:00

Saw an episode on HGTV and learned about these mosaic penny cork tiles. They look relatively easy to install and for our tiny space, they cost would be less than having someone install regular tile (because we could do it our selves).

Still pondering the idea, but love the look and that its green..

Don't just give me a blanket statement...

2010-10-19T22:19:00.001-04:00

I may have been in the military and taken my fair share of orders with out question, but when it comes to our home I need practical advice and step by step explanations when it comes to organizing. If you tell me just to do something, forget it, it goes in one ear and out the other. But, if you are able to show me why doing something a certain way will benefit me, I am much more likely to listen. I don't think I am alone here?!

I did not start out as an organized person, whether your clutter habits are learned behavior or something you are born with I will leave that for the professionals. The funny thing is after moving so many times throughout my life (California, Florida to Virginia and many in between), I felt the need to hold onto things from those places, maybe to give me the feeling that I wasn't starting all over again. But now, I am settled, and I don't have as much of a need to hold on to every little thing. Thankfully my DH has been very patient and has seen me mature over the years from tacking posters on the wall of our house just to have something there, to taking pride and making a home that we can both be proud to come home too.

Part of my journey in life, like most women I think is that if I have/had an "issue" no matter what it was/is, I would identify it and take measures to fix it. For me, having a clean comfortable home to welcome DH, myself and our family too is very important to me. I have actually found that an unorganized home, will distract me from other important things throughout my day, even if I am away from the house (working). With a generation like ours with both adult working full-time jobs out of the home and commuting long distances, it makes having a Martha Stewart/Stepford Wife home near impossible. It makes just coming home, making an attempt at a healthy meal, doing a load of laundry, oh and trying to relax with DH before going to bed almost doable, almost. But, that's about it.

So I picked up a copy of "Confessions of an Organized Homemaker" by Deniece Schofield and a light finally went off for me. When I read, that going to bed with a dirty kitchen sink will just lead to you starting the next day behind (behind on the dishes) I got it. I also got that waking up and seeing a dirty kitchen sink is much worse then just dragging your ~~tired~~ exhausted butt in the kitchen and just cleaning up after making a meal.
I also took this to heart with my bathroom, this is the first place I see in the morning. I may not understand couples that sleep in different rooms, but I sure understand not sharing a bathroom (even though our bathrooms are tiny, luckily we have 2 full baths and I have my own space). I wanted to walk into a clean place to start my day. I have excepted the teeny tiny bathroom for what is and decided to get rid of ~~junk~~ stuff that I really didn't need (5 different bottles of hair spray.. seriously that's only the beginning).

I am proud to say that for the last two weeks, no matter what rush I have been in, my bathroom has been left fairly presentable (I allow for crooked towels as long as they are hung .... well at least when guests aren't coming over ). The counter around the sink (its practically a pedestal sink) has been free of anything other than the hand soap and container I put my jewelry in. The kitchen sink has been a work in progress, sometimes I feel as if there is good and evil on my shoulder saying "really its ok if you just leave that glass there, you work hard, take it easy" then the good side that says "how hard is it to just wash that glass and put it away" and the easiest excuse of all - the dishwasher is running, I will just wait until its finished.

To some, this may seem totally obvious/trivial, but to me, with 3 hours each night from the time I get home to the time I need to head to bed, I think these two things are huge improvements. Its about the baby steps right?

Speaking of time, this is cutting into my sleep, BTW the kitchen sink is clean.

Itty Bitty Fall Change

2010-10-17T18:01:00.000-04:00

Before:

After:

Still not sure what to put in the middle

What do you think?

Work With What you have Weekend # 2 - Put a little Boo in it!

2010-10-17T16:33:00.000-04:00

Simple & Easy Halloween Decor - $0

Frugal Fix-it Friday #1 Drape Rods

2010-10-15T08:00:00.003-04:00

Problem #1

Multiple curtain rods, joined by extenders, that come loose!

Enter Exhibit A - they pull apart!

Enter plain old electrical tape

I covered the joints with electrical tape and presto! They aren't pulling apart anymore!

Dreaming of a new chair

2010-10-12T09:54:00.000-04:00

After many months of me griping about my DH's then bark-o-lounger that sits in the middle of our living room ....

OLD CHAIR

We sold it on Craigslist (amazing what people will buy) and purchased this new baby below!

DH's NEW CHAIR

It has nice clean lines and takes up a lot less room than the old one.. But, the problem is... we both love it and I find myself wanting to sit in it each night. For months I have thought, well I guess I will just get another one that is exactly the same, but then realizing that our couch is on the way out, how does this play into the room factor? Then we watched the movie up... I saw this and realized.. No I don't need to get the same chair and more than that they don't have to match exactly..

Disney's "UP"

This leads me to my search for a chair that I want.. I want it to be comfy, something my long legs can curl up in, classic (so that I won't think its hideous next season), as for color I would like to go outside of my comfort zone of gray, brown and black and look for something with coral or turquoise (crazy I know).. Here is what I have found so far:

ZGallery - Pauline Chair

Crate&Barrel - Clara Chair

Crate & Barrel - Parker Chair

angelo:HOME Harlow Arm Chair Clay Mango

So, what do you think??

Work With What you have Weekend #1 - Signage

2010-10-10T19:22:00.000-04:00

Love all those cool signs that you can by on Etsy?

I do I do.. me me me

But, I have a hard time buying something I know I can do myself!

Hence the Work With What you have Weekends..

1. Take a piece of scrap wood

2. Sand, Prime, Paint background color

3. Find a font you like, word you want to go on the sign, print it out

4. Trace word with tracing paper

5. Place Tracing paper over painted wood, trace again push hard with pencil (or use carbon paper - I didn't have any, so I used what I had)

6. Using paint fill in the letters

7. Sand around the edges to age the sign

It was totally free

Since I am not completely happy with the outcome (primarily the font I chose)

It is easy to paint over it and do it again, using the paint and tools I already own.

Sometimes I think its important to not only show the polished perfect pics, but the ones that we will try again!

We welcome Hobby Lobby to the DC area!

2010-10-10T08:44:00.000-04:00

I have spent years reading blogs about the wonderful, the famous (at least in blog land) HOBBY LOBBY.

We have long suffered (yes suffered) with only having Michael's and the occasional AC Moore.

Not anymore!

Today my mom and I are making the long track (OK its only 40 miles) to Laurel, MD.

I can't wait!

Finally found something at Trader Joes I DON'T like

2010-10-08T12:12:00.001-04:00

I have been a long lover of Trader Joe's and its products. Actually ~~haven't~~ had not found a product that I didn't like,

BUT

Then my coworker purchased these:

Roasted Seaweed snack...

The smell made me gag... OY

Still love you Trader Joe's

Work With What you have... Weekend

2010-10-06T20:32:00.000-04:00

coming soon

Use what you have....... Halloween

2010-10-06T20:12:00.000-04:00

My Plan for using what we have... aka a no additional cost for decorating this Halloween!

Use scrap wood to create spooky signs!
Print photo's from last years pumpkin patch and use them in decorating around the house
Use spray paint to transform something we already have...
Look in the yard see what I can pick up and create

Tis the season to put out pumpkins - fa la la la la .. la la la la

2010-10-01T08:02:00.000-04:00

T - 30 Days to Halloween!

Happy Blogiversary to John and Sherry!

2010-09-27T10:58:00.000-04:00

Go visit them over at for their 3rd Blogiversary!

Picture from August - Trip to Ocean City, MD

2010-09-26T22:13:00.001-04:00

Window Shopping

2010-08-05T14:09:00.002-04:00

Dory Coral Embroidered Towel-stitch Pillow

Under The Sea Pillows

Sea Star' Starfish Towel-stitch Pillow

I hate to say it, but this is funny!

2010-08-05T10:00:00.000-04:00

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Oh how I look forward to fall

2010-08-04T20:33:00.001-04:00

With the dog days of summer upon us..

July 2010

August 2010

I do look forward to fall.....

Fall 2008

Just Window Shopping

2010-08-04T14:48:00.000-04:00

Rio Collapsible Storage Basket, Blue $17.99

World Market Kristin Kubu Log Basket $34.99

World Market Jute Ikat Curtain Panel, Aqua 34.99

Happy 4th of July

2010-07-04T16:41:00.001-04:00

Happy 4th of July!

While I had tons of plans for placing all of those unused items on craiglist this weekend, my body had decided that I needed to take a mental health day. SO, that's what I am doing today. I don't plan on tackling mission organization until tomorrow. Have a great 4th of July!

The 80/20 Principle

2010-07-02T14:55:00.001-04:00

Before I show you what the basement looks like. I wanted to take a quick detour and tell you that after learning of the 80 20 principle, I was motivated to empty our closets! Yes, that's what came to mind when I learned of it 80% of the time, and the rest off it, we don't use but 20 % of the time.We probably used 20% of our ~~junk~~ processions, I wish I had taken before images, but here is the after, not doctored to look pretty, just simple after photos. My poor husband came home to clothing being thrown our of our room/closet and his next response was when are we doing to garage!

the closet, post purging

the winter clothing removed from closet

mostly empty drawer

the donation pile

Why haven't you been posting??

2010-03-14T19:18:00.011-04:00

I will show you why! What started out as an attempt to give my husband back a space in the basement and move my crafting area to the garage, a plan that I thought would only take 1 weekend (silly me). Has taken me over a month to complete (working only on the weekends). But, I am really happy with the progress.

INSPIRATION:

This first picture is from Christie Kauffman over at Just Beachy- she is the one that gave me that little nudge to get started, she did the wainscoting in her bedroom all on her own. Christie was very generous to read over my plans ahead of time and give me a little bit of advice.

BEFORE:

CURRENT PROGRESS:

Plants - 2010

2010-01-23T21:01:00.003-05:00

Dear Poor Neglected Plants,
Thank you for holding on through the holidays! I have a New Years resolutions to take better care of you!
Thanks,
Mrs. BellaSnorts

There is a problem with knowing what you want - Lighting

2010-01-20T13:35:00.008-05:00

This seems to happen to me a lot, whether clothing, decor items or in this case lighting. I like to sit on the couch and read a book, while DH is flipping through channels. But, its too dark and our room has an odd layout which makes it difficult for a normal table lamp. SOO.. I had the bright idea to find a rustic bronze or nickel finished floor lamp that could hang over the couch and provide directed light. Well, stupid idea to think that this would be an easy find!

Option 1 - Restoration Hardware - Too expensive.... But the look I want

Library Task Floor Lamp

$299

Equipped with precision hardware that swivels and extends, directing light where you need it
Bronze finish
Variable range switch
Uses one 60W max. type T bulb
Dimensions: 6-1/2"W x 11"D x 40–56"H

Option # 2 - Still too expensive - Target

Cantilever Adjustable Floor Lamp

$214.99

Option # 5 - Like it - but the price... errr - JCPenney's - Will have to think on this one! Linden Street® Adjustable Pharmacy Floor Lamp Sale $99.99 Original $200.00

Option # 6 - Like it - IKEA - FUN

KVART Floor/ reading lamp $19.99

Todays Find - While shopping at Wegmans!

2010-01-17T15:41:00.003-05:00

Seriously I don't think I can describe to you how yummy these soaps smell. I found them while perusing the organics section at Wegmans today. OK , so the packaging totally sucked me in, and at 5$ a pop, I almost didn't buy them, but then I smelled them!

Wow, if they work well I will be adding them to gift baskets!

You can find them here - Pacifica - Natural Soap

Wishing I was somewhere warm!

2010-01-16T20:50:00.005-05:00

This weekend I am takling the pit, that we call the office!

2010-01-16T13:38:00.003-05:00

But to start off with here are a few small glimpses of the DIY's projects I have been working on!

My mental break.. and finds..

2010-01-15T08:35:00.005-05:00

thats what I call it.. a mental break..

I dont take smoke breaks..

I dont walk around and chat in the office..

I take a mental break from my data entry and other mind numbing tasks!

Today I found:

WOW Seaside Inspired- Great Home Items-- Just the style I like!

http://makeundermylife.com/

Seriously-- this chic has some great post, she will life you up and motivate you!

Through her I found:

Future me allows you to send an email to yourself or someone else in the future, you specify the date and it will be delivered on that date.. Pretty cool!

Seriously Sherbet Blossom, where have you been my whole life?!

2010-01-12T15:18:00.001-05:00

See her post below

Visit Sherbet Blossom

...the cleaning system explained

I've received quite a few emails requesting my weekly chore list. Before I divulge, I must add a disclaimer. In no way do I profess to be a housecleaning expert. My home is frequently sub-par. (My excuse is that I live with two little tornadoes who find great joy in following behind me as I vacuum, leaving a trail of crumbs along the way.) This is housekeeping the Hannah way: imperfect but acceptable. I can answer the door anytime knowing that my house will be almost-in-order. It is leaps-n-bounds ahead of my old "clean the house on Saturday and watch the house deteriorate until next Saturday" plan.

To create my current plan, I combined three cleaning systems: My friend Kiersta's, the Fly Lady's, and knowledge from my magnificent mother. Together, I was able to make a handy little cleaning system. From the FlyLady, I learned to have three routines per day: a morning routine, a task list, and a bedtime routine. (The FlyLady is a wonderful program, but overall, it was much-too-much for me.) From my friend Kiersta, I learned to divide the chores between the weekdays and take the weekends off. I personally brought a knowledge of what needed to be done to keep the house spick-n-span. (Thanks, Mom.)

My chore list isn't profound. It is probably full of things that you already do in your home, but hopefully it will help someone out there. It is obviously tailored to me and my house, but you can change it to your own specifications.

1. empty dishwasher
2. check calendar + to do list
3. scriptures + journal

MONDAY
01. laundry (including all bed sheets)
02. vacuum
03. mop kitchen
04. wipe down doors
05. deep-clean bathrooms

TUESDAY
01. send out birthday cards + thank yous
02. clean car

WEDNESDAY
01. clean out fridge
02. clean kitchen (floor, rugs, surfaces, cupboards, pantry, etc)

THURSDAY
01. grocery shopping
02. clean bedrooms (vacuum, dust, baseboards)

FRIDAY
01. re-organize kid's rooms (this really has to be done weekly in my home...)
02. clean living + family rooms. (dust, vacuum, baseboards)

SATURDAY:
focus on family day

SUNDAY:
01. update family blog
02. work on church assignment
03. read church book/conference talk

01. pick up house
02. run dishwasher
03. start tomorrow's to do list

Are a girls best friend!

2010-01-11T20:30:00.002-05:00

Not diamonds!! Organizing supplies... :)

Please please old man winter- GO AWAY!

2010-01-11T20:24:00.002-05:00

Just another day...

2010-01-08T11:47:00.001-05:00

Rockefeller Center - December 2009

2010-01-04T22:20:00.003-05:00

Midway between places

2010-01-04T22:10:00.002-05:00

Just another day in Bella Paradise...

2010-01-04T21:10:00.002-05:00

5 Things people don't tell you about aging...

2010-01-04T12:45:00.002-05:00

1. You can't sleep in anymore, sleeping in past 8am is an accomplishment

2. Your taste buds change.. when I hit 30 anything that used to taste good - coke, candy.. now is really really sweet.. to the point where I don't want it.. I know this is a good thing though

3. You scar more easily... what used to be a little nick on my hand from doing house work, is now a major identifier or land mark on my hand.. hasn't gone away and doesn't look like its going too

4. You start to get excited when people card you...

5. Adults still get acne .... need I say anymore

Books I am Currently Reading...

2010-01-04T10:07:00.002-05:00

I first read Susan Richards "Chosen by a Horse" and liked it, so I am reading her second book.

I first started reading The Pioneer Woman's Blog about a year ago and have enjoyed everything from the photography tutorials to the country cooking recipes. This was a gift I received for the holidays and I spent an hour reading through all of the recipes last night. I really look forward to making some of them!

After watching Julie and Julia I was interested in Julia Child's life, from the little I got in the movie, I wanted to learn more... SO I ordered the original version of this book from Amazon (love Amazon)

Ok, I knew he is famous, had never read anything by him, figured it was about time I find out what all the excitement was about.

2010 Is here...

2010-01-03T18:59:00.004-05:00

Now what... Just kidding! Today I took down our Tree, sad to see it go, but nice to have our living room back in order.

Now that my school semester had also wrapped up I can finally spend time getting some things done around the house that are calling my name..

One of the items that I have just ordered that I am excited about is a Steel Pegboard from Wall Control:
It will go on the wall in our office/craft room

Today's Finds!

2010-01-03T15:01:00.007-05:00

Wow! Paula Deen - New Furniture Line: Love love love!!!

and who knew there was an entire design blog .. just for me ... he he jump over to her blog tons of great design pics all in my favorite color

and it only get better... yes now all of the products you want that are turquoise

Make it possible to shop your own house!

2009-11-01T18:51:00.006-05:00

Today I moved Mirrors, which you can see below and I have not created a "decor station" (we had elfa shelving that wasn't being used) for all of my extra decor items. So now I don't have to wander around the house looking for those candle sticks!

(this is just some of the many stashes of decor items I had hidden around the house)

This may not look like much, but its right inside of our garage and equiped with our donations bin on top.

This is what happens when you don't have children!

2009-11-01T18:36:00.004-05:00

Poor thing- you can tell how annoyed she is!

Quick Change for the First Day of November

2009-11-01T14:23:00.005-05:00

Before:

DURING:

After:

Did I mention this Blog? Its awesome- Nuthin but pics!

2009-10-30T20:54:00.003-04:00

thats right.. nuthin! but pics

Inspiration for Decoration

Cleaning Prep List

2009-10-12T10:28:00.002-04:00

Cleaning Prep

Cleaning Supplies

1. Bring Cleaning Supply Buckets from all floors to one area

2. Inventory

o Baking Soda (place in reusable jars) – Mark with Sharpie Marker

o Borax

o White Vinegar – Put in Spray Bottles Mark

o Essential Oil or Spray for Fragrance (Lemon, Lavender, Mint)

o Paper Towels or Terry Clothes (2 per bucket)

o Bleach

o Scrub Brushes (1 per bucket)

o Furniture Polish or All Purpose Dust

3. Make Shopping List (search for coupons)

o Check Furnace Air Filter – Add to list if needed

o Check/Empty Vacuum Filter – Add to list if needed

4. Clean all Scrub brushes – Run through dishwasher

5. Go to Store Purchase anything that you are low on

6. Place all items back in their containers

7. Put back in designated areas (1 per floor to make it easier)

8. Make sure iPod is loaded/charged and ready for cleaning

9. Boil Water for Cleaning any Drains

Summer Reading List- Christine

2009-08-11T21:57:00.007-04:00

In an attempt to read the "classics" (the books I should have read a long time ago) I am reading them now for the first time. DH has brought to my attention a lack of reading on my part (was my little secret). For the first time I am actually enjoying reading and have pretty much stopped watching TV.

The top of the list is of course for fun. I am currently finishing/reading "Palace Circle".

I am listening to the Twighlight Saga on my IPod on my way into work. Once I am done with the Twighligh series I will switch back to Diana Gabaldons "Outlander" series (on my IPod for the ride in) for a second listen just in time for her new book to come out in late September. The other two books by her that I actually plan to read (not listen to on my IPOD) are: "Lord John and the hand of Devils" and "Lord John and the Brotherhood of the Blade" and "Lord John and the Private Matter".

Palace Circle
Twighlight Series 1-4 Ipod (yes I realize this was written for teenage girls!
The Count of Monte Cristo
The Three Musketeers
Dracula
Lord John (Book 1-3)
A Breath of Snow and Ashes (IPod)

Haven't posted in a while!

2009-08-10T07:50:00.002-04:00

It has been a busy summer so far! We just got back from a week long cruise through the Caribbean aboard the Carnival Pride. Before that we haven been playing golf on our off times and trying to enjoy what little time we have with warm weather :)

Playing with Photoshop Actions!

2009-06-05T12:40:00.000-04:00

Product Review- Sunless Tanning Spray!

2009-05-24T14:41:00.005-04:00

The Contestants:

Bliss A Tan For All Seasons $36 Sephora

Solar Power All-Angle Professional Airbrush Tan $15 Bath & Body Works

Routine for both:

Bath as normal, but include exfoliating at the end.
Get out of shower, towel dry, put on lite layer of spf 15
Jump back in the shower
Test sprays on face and body

First Impressions:

Bliss- Very powerful spray, had to hold arm far away from body not an even mist (ended up having to blot with a dark colored towel), normally tanning spray smell.

Solar Power- Very fine mist, light tanning sent, held bottle 6-12'' from body, did not need to blot with towel

Color:

Bliss- Nice color after - not even though because of mister
Solar Power- Color is even, but not as dark as the Bliss

Who held up in the end?

By far the Solar Power from Bath & Body Shop. Its hard to mess up, no streaking, doesn't have a distinctive tanning smell, and you cant beat the price. I actually went out and just bought a second bottle.

House Re-Do!

2009-05-15T13:37:00.001-04:00

Diet Soup Recipe from Good Housekeeping

2009-05-07T19:07:00.002-04:00

Soup Diet Basic Recipe and Variations

From Good Housekeeping
(http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/health/diet/soup-diet-basic-recipe-1007)

Our recipe for the Basic Soup yields such a large quantity — to make sure you have enough to enjoy all week — that it calls for a 12-quart stockpot for preparation. If you don't have one, not to worry — the ingredients divide easily in half and the soup can be prepared in 2 large saucepans or Dutch ovens, depending on what you have in your kitchen cabinet.

Photo by: Ellie Miller

Soup diet with vegetables

Life is as easy as you make it!

2009-04-26T17:43:00.002-04:00

Click on pictures to make them larger. (Bella & her buddy Zoey playing this morning)

Am I a product hog??

2009-04-15T20:24:00.006-04:00

My mom always said I had a "love" for products. You be the judge. Too many products in my shower? Yes, all are in there right now!

It's the little things...

2009-04-14T20:03:00.008-04:00

Its the little things in life that make life so enjoyable.. With mothers day fast upon us, it makes me smile that some of the little things I treasure in life were taught to me or given to me by my mom...

(my moms hands, helping with my wedding dress)

Growing up, my mom would try and escape to the one bathroom that had a tub, but soon my dad would go in and talk to her.. then the cat would start pawing under the door.. then "the boys" (our two rottweilers) would want to know what they were missing... then sure enough my sister and I would finally poke our heads in as well... A tradition I didn't learn to fully appreciate until becoming an adult.. Seems you spend most of your younger years trying not to be like your parents and next thing you know, you turn around and there they are, looking back at you in the mirror... As I am quickly approaching 30, I am no longer scared of the reflection, whether its my wild curly locks or the snort that creeps into my laugh.. at the most inopportune moment...!

For me, we are fortunate to have two full bathrooms on our top floor and one of them - is all mine! This means that I get to soak in my tub and relax after a long hard day......except for the occasional visit from our french bulldog .. checking in to make sure that nothing new is floating in the tub...

My recipe for my relaxing bath:

2 Large Jars (a scoop from each into the tub)

One filled with Lavender (thanks to my mom) from The San Fransisco Herb Company
One filled with Epsom Salts

6 Candles lit, and placed around the tub (my husband says its looks like a seance)-

5 the aqua color from our wedding (makes me smile), one from Aveda

1 big squirt of Neutrogena Body Oil

1 big squirt of EO Bubble Bath (thanks to my mom) French Lavender

1 or 2 magazines for perusing by candle light

1 Bath Tub filled with HOT water!

The internet has so many wonderful things!

2009-04-09T15:31:00.008-04:00

All of these are thanks to other nesties and bloggers. (this is more a list for me, to refer back too)

ABC Distributing- Furniture for pennies!

Fabric.com - Hello Cool, Cheap Fabric online (and show with coordinating patterns)

DecoPad- Neetoh!

Love Ahava products- this one looks yummy!

Pics I saw today and liked:

More Tiny/Small House Love!

2009-04-07T17:44:00.008-04:00

I really adore these small houses, each time I see one, I picture us having one!

Great Blog This Tiny House

Rocio Romero

Small House Style

The Little House on the Trailer

Tiny House Design

C3

More Tiny Home Info:
http://www.comingunmoored.com/
http://www.rosschapin.com/index.html
http://www.tinyhouseliving.com/
http://www.tinyhousedesign.com/
http://www.tinyfreehouse.com/
http://thistinyhouse.com/

It's been a year!

2009-04-04T07:37:00.004-04:00

Modern -But, Comfortable?

2009-04-01T19:59:00.003-04:00

Boson Chair & Ottoman from Hive

New Cool Stuff to Check OUT!!

2009-03-30T13:35:00.012-04:00

First one: Tipnut.com - Heard of it? How could I have missed it? I came across it on another bloggers board "More Green for Less Green".. Everything from free templates that make your life easier to great organization ideas.. Check it out:

Make A Household Notebook: Ideas & Printables

With a binder or planner, some paper and a printer–you’ve got all you need to setup a complete household management hot spot: your Household Organizer (aka Household Notebook, Journal, or Planner).

These are a great tool to keep your household chores, To Do lists, activities and notes organized. You may also find they help motivate you to keep things moving on a daily basis.

Visit the links below for examples and instructions for a few different systems and inspiration galore. You’ll also find some free printables & tools to use listed at the bottom, make them as pretty or simple as you like!

FREE DOWNLOADS- Who doesn't love these?? Thanks too Free 2009 Calendar and other free downloads- awesome!

Love the picture below of the wall of pictures from:

danita pillow

$34.95

dwell.com (1800's barn turned vacation home)

Weekend Checklist!

2009-03-29T08:51:00.006-04:00

Its raining and I would rather look at something pretty!

*Items to Goodwill - DONE
*Grocery Shopping- DONE
*Prep & Wash all food- DONE
*Trash Out (upstairs, kitchen, bathrooms)- DONE
*Dry cleaning in Car- DONE
*Snacks prepped for this week- DONE
*Dust Living Room- DONE
*Dust Dining Room- DONE
*Sweep Kitchen- DONE
*Return items to Walmart- DONE
*Organize office- DONE
*Move star out of living room- DONE
*Dust Office-DONE
*Dust Bedroom-DONE
*Vacuum Upstairs-DONE
*Vacuum Stairs-DONE
*Vacuum Middle Floor-DONE
*Bleach Bathrooms-
*Laundry- mostly
*IRON-DONE
*Wash bed linens- DONE
*Hang Curtains-DONE
*Hang Floating Shelves-DONE

BellaSnorts

Stationery card

30 Weeks - Nursery Progress

A little summer

Week 17 to Week 20

My little project.

Confession...

Happy Heart Day!

A Valentine's Day Dinner

Ingredients

Directions

Bay Scallop Gratin

Ingredients

Directions

Fun with a new tool!

A snow day

Do you ever have days?

the white stuff

They are calling my name!

Lonny Mag Love

Getting very sleepy....

Basket Case - Laundry

I have a Kinky little secret.....

To some

Happy New Year!

"These go to 11"

So the holidays are over, is it spring yet?

An Entry- Updated!

Keep It Simple - Guest Bedroom

Say Hello to my little friend!

UP.... the tree that is

"Organize" for the Holidays

Why spend the $$ when you can make it!

A little mid-week re-org

Bathroom Tile Option- Green

Don't just give me a blanket statement...

Itty Bitty Fall Change

Work With What you have Weekend # 2 - Put a little Boo in it!

Frugal Fix-it Friday #1 Drape Rods

Dreaming of a new chair

Work With What you have Weekend #1 - Signage

We welcome Hobby Lobby to the DC area!

Finally found something at Trader Joes I DON'T like

Work With What you have... Weekend

Use what you have....... Halloween

Tis the season to put out pumpkins - fa la la la la .. la la la la

Happy Blogiversary to John and Sherry!

Picture from August - Trip to Ocean City, MD

Window Shopping

Under The Sea Pillows

I hate to say it, but this is funny!

Oh how I look forward to fall

Just Window Shopping

Rio Collapsible Storage Basket, Blue $17.99

World Market Kristin Kubu Log Basket $34.99

World Market Jute Ikat Curtain Panel, Aqua 34.99

Happy 4th of July

The 80/20 Principle

Why haven't you been posting??

Plants - 2010

There is a problem with knowing what you want - Lighting

Equipped with precision hardware that swivels and extends, directing light where you need itBronze finishVariable range switchUses one 60W max. type T bulbDimensions: 6-1/2"W x 11"D x 40–56"H

Todays Find - While shopping at Wegmans!

Wishing I was somewhere warm!

This weekend I am takling the pit, that we call the office!

My mental break.. and finds..

Seriously Sherbet Blossom, where have you been my whole life?!

See her post below

Visit Sherbet Blossom

...the cleaning system explained

Are a girls best friend!

Please please old man winter- GO AWAY!

Just another day...

Rockefeller Center - December 2009

Midway between places

Just another day in Bella Paradise...

5 Things people don't tell you about aging...

Books I am Currently Reading...

2010 Is here...

Today's Finds!

Equipped with precision hardware that swivels and extends, directing light where you need it
Bronze finish
Variable range switch
Uses one 60W max. type T bulb
Dimensions: 6-1/2"W x 11"D x 40–56"H