barefootbeadshawaii

Christmas Stocking

2012-01-30T10:16:00.000-10:00

I love stockings! My husband and I just moved into a new apartment and I thought to myself... "What would spice up our place and really give me a Holiday feel without getting all GREEN and RED?" Here is my answer. (His is coming, I only had time to make one today. :) Mine was the tester.)

I started with two fabrics. One of them, the yellowy pink floral, is from about 5 years ago. I feel great about using it because I have been hoarding it for way too long! I finally found the perfect project and it is inspiring me to work my way through my stash.

My husband drew me a pattern piece for the stocking. Mine was a little wonky, so I chose his piece instead. Thanks Cody!

Then I pieced together the two fabrics, the stocking is about 8 inches wide at the top. So I just cut 8 inch wide varying sizes of fabric.

My favorite part is the toe!

I quilted the front to some batting and lined it with a plain white fabric. I like the alternating colors and fabrics. They are kind of clashing/matching. I used a light cream ribbon vintage bias tape that I got in a sewing box last month for the finish on the top and the loop. It tied it all together, and I love the finished product.

Here it is hanging in my craft room on my bulletin board (which I made with a SUPER discount frame from Michael's, some Ikea cardboard from our furniture packaging and scrapbook paper. Sweet!) It totally steals the show! What do you think?

Mythbusters: Behind the Myths Tour

2012-01-29T10:33:00.000-10:00

My husband and I got to see the Mythbusters Behind the Myths Tour a few weeks ago when they stopped in Tucson for a show. It was a pretty cool show with a lot of audience participation. If you are a die hard fan, you would totally LOVE it.

I am a fan, but not a OMG I LOVE YOU!!! fan. So, I had a really good time watching the show.... and the crowd. The people watching at this show was pretty awesome. Hard core science fans, CRAZy children fans, and then the usual tv watching fans. I have never been to a show like this and fans are always pretty crazy, but I would say the Mythbusters fans are INSANE.

Here we are at the very beginning before the show even started. The people behind us were the CRAZY fans with children. At one point, the young ~~polite~~ boy stood up and said, "ADAM SAVAGE GET YOUR BUTT OVER HERE!" Whoa. Probably not the best way to get picked to participate, just sayin'.

I am going to leave this one to your imagination. Look! Child participant. I wonder how they got picked...

Pretty cool set.

Adam trying to catch an arrow being shot from a crossbow. What??

One lucky guy got to wear this suit! They are showing a video of how they wore it diving with sharks and now he gets to wear it for...

THIS! Getting shot at with paint balls from about 15 feet away. AWESOME! (this little stunt elicited screams and screaming laughter from the crazy people behind us - we both needed earplugs for this event, but not from the show...) :)

They even let fans participate in playing with the high speed camera. So cool! They pulled people on-stage and had them shake their heads, flap their lips, and make crazy sounds just so we could watch the slow motion capture. FUN!

Want to learn more about the show? Go to their website and check out all their cool videos, myths, and info.

Check out their tour site to get more info on their upcoming shows, pricing, etc.

RECOMMENDED for sure.

Haiku Gardens Wedding : 5 months and going strong!

2012-01-28T10:14:00.000-10:00

My husband and I got married a little over 5 months ago. Time sure flies! We have had a pretty exciting marriage so far. We went on our honeymoon on Lanai, then moved to Arizona less than 3 months later. We are settling into Arizona and getting used to being back on the mainland. We had an amazing wedding thanks to our family and friends and I love looking at all the pictures. Here are a few of my favorite moments and memories.

I love the white and the lush green. The Gardens were stunning that day.

My favorite photos are often silhouettes, and this is the closest we came to one. I love the blurred background, the light colors, and the creamy light.

I think I have shared this photo before, but it really is one of my favorites. Running towards our new life!

My girls looked amazing! The dresses, hair, makeup, WOWZER. They really made the day awesome.

I love the HUGE green "cabbage" behind me in this picture. The Gardens really were incredible.

We printed old wedding photos from all of our family members that we could find and pinned them up on display as you walked in. Everyone loved looking at all the old family memories.

Airy, open, and simple.

I made these wooden signs to direct guests to our garden site.

I made these super simple cute place cards and my dad made the grass boxes to put them in. They looked awesome and really tied it all together. Thanks DAD!

My mom helped me plant all these succulents months before the wedding. We also spray painted each pot white and wrapped them with jute at the top. I printed off the table numbers and hiked Kuliouou in Hawaii to find the twigs. They were a labor of love that made the tables special for our family and friends.

I wanted my flowers to be local, fun, and bold. These Protea are found on Maui and are my favorite flowers.

Our Grand Entrance. We skipped in past the photo booth. My bridesmaid Natalie and I built the photo booth and spent hours making it just right. Thanks Nat! It was truly THE most fun part of the day.

My co-workers helped me make my dessert bar fantasy come true. Kazu made my cute little strawberry shortcakes, Glo helped me set up, and I made a bunch of goodies to share!

It was a huge task to create such a handmade wedding but I wouldn't change a thing. I made my own place cards, photo booth, center pieces, table numbers, dessert bar, props for the photo booth, we wrote our own vows, and we had my brother take our engagement pictures. The wedding was handmade from the little pieces to the bold statements and we could never have pulled it all together without all the help we got! Thank you so much everyone. You made our day amazing and

unforgettable.

Snow on Mt. Lemmon

2012-01-27T10:13:00.003-10:00

We went up to Mt. Lemmon last weekend and there was snow! That's right, 28 degrees and snow. Crazy, I know. It was beautiful and cold and so mind boggling to drive from desert to snow in less than an hour. I loved it. It was about 60 in Tucson that day, and kept getting colder as we went up.

I haven't been in the cold for a while, it was a shock.

Wrapped in winter warmth.

The aspen trees were breath taking with their yellow and green leaves and snow covered trunks.

You can see the ski run really clearly with the snow on it. I hope we get enough snow to ski this winter.

If you haven't been to Mt. Lemmon yet, you should go! Just bring cash, snacks, and warm clothes. When we were at the top the little shops credit card line was down because of the storm so they were only taking cash. We ate a picnic at about 45 degrees on our way down. It was so relaxing and fun.

Fabric Holiday Placemats

2011-11-13T10:39:00.000-10:00

This past weekend, I made fabric placemats for my mother-in-law's birthday. I used a black and white polka dot fabric on one side and a red holiday fabric on the other. They turned out really nice.

I really like the holiday fabric because it isn't too loud and HOLIDAY'ISH.

The black and white polka dots look great on the other side.

Four large placemats.

Oh, and a patchwork trivet to match.

I quilted it in a large diamond pattern in white thread. I think they would look great on any table and I hope she likes them!

For a tutorial, click here.

Ruffle Cake

2011-11-13T06:37:00.001-10:00

I love ruffle cakes and I have been wanting to make one forever! My mother in law's birthday was a few weeks ago and she is coming to visit, so I thought, PERFECT TIME FOR A RUFFLE CAKE!

I piped ruffles and stripes.

I piped a flower on top like the flower cupcakes I made a few days ago.

I made bright yellow cupcakes to go with it. So cute!

MMMMM...

I love layer cakes!

I filled it with homemade strawberry cream cheese filling. Oh my.

I love this combination.

Flower Cupcake Tutorial

2011-11-03T12:22:00.002-10:00

Start by filling a piping bag with your frosting. I used a #104 tip from Wilton. I like to use my plastic scraper to get the frosting nice a tight and into the tip.

Start with the fat side down and pipe your first petal.

It should look like this.

Then pipe all around the cupcake in a single layer of petals

Do the same thing on top of the first round, but a little shorter.

Then, for the third layer, turn the tip a little more up and down and make little short petals.

Then top with sprinkles or little pearly dragees.

They are so easy and turn out beautiful.

Moving Blogs

2011-10-31T10:11:00.002-10:00

I am slowly moving blogs! You can still find all my posts on this blog, but I am starting a new one that will eventually be the main blog. Check it out here! I am still messing around with the layout and everything. Tell me what you think. Love it? Hate it? Want to see more of something? Let me know! Add it to your blogroll and make sure you follow it instead of the old one, or you will miss out on all the latest!

I changed the layout a bit and made it more of a "magazine" style. So - Success or Fail?

Flower Cupcakes

2011-10-31T09:54:00.001-10:00

Yesterday I made these flower cupcakes to take to my husband's nurses. He is in the hospital for a routine check up, and I have been spending a lot of time there hanging out with him. I know this is bad, but when I realized there were people there that would eat my baked goods, I was like, "Finally!" My husband is not a sweets person and it is usually just me that eats all the desserts!

I love the pink and purple colors. Not very fall-like, but that's ok. I am having a hard time getting into the seasons and the colors and decor.

The little pearly balls on the top really make the cupcake, don't you think??

I got a new carrier too, it holds cupcakes with higher frosting, which is awesome!

Tutorial for these cupcakes to come!

Cake Wedding Music - my way

2011-10-27T20:16:00.001-10:00

My husband and I picked a bunch of songs for our wedding. It was hard to find good song lists on-line for weddings, so I thought I would share the ones that we used.

I (bride) walked down the aisle to:
Would You Go With Me by Josh Turner ~~~ We love this song and it is so romantic. It was great to walk down the aisle to something different that totally fit us.

Our Grand Entrance:
Short Skirt, Long Jacket by Cake ~~~ We both love Cake, but I am a super hard core fan. We skipped in and I tripped on my dress a little I was loving it so much. :)

First Dance:
Oh by Dave Matthews Band ~~~ my husband is a CRAZY Dave fan. He seriously never used to listen to ANYTHING else. I would get in his car in high school and every time, he had Dave on. I hear Dave and I think of him, so this was perfect.

Cake Cutting:
Turn the Lights Down Low by Colbie Caillat - mellow and fun

Father Daughter Dance:
Back in Black by AC/DC : I remember dancing with my dad to AC/DC when I was a little girl. My mom would leave on the weekend to get a little "me time" or run errands and we would turn up the music and dance! She even said, "what song?" When I told her I picked this. She would always turn it off when she came home, or just WAY down. :)

These are my favorite picks that were the most different from the cheesy stuff that wedding sites tell you to use. I hope this helps anyone that is looking for good songs for their wedding. Think outside the box. You don't have to pick all cheesy love songs! People loved it!

Free Printable Art

2011-10-26T20:20:00.002-10:00

I love browsing pinterest and my favorite blogs for cool printables. I have printables for my bathroom, craft room, kitchen, you name it. I love instant printable art, and the best part, is that all of these are free.

{get this one in any of these colors here}

I printed this one in the marine blue color and plan on pinning it above my sewing machine. You could put it in your kitchen, garage, studio, work space, etc.

{Get this cute printable here}

I think this would look great in a babies room or in your bedroom.

{get it here}

You might say, "this isn't instant art!" Oh, but it is! Art for your face. I printed these out on super thick card stock for a mustache party last year. So fun!

{Heart print here}

{super cool art printable here}

{from the same site as above, tons of super cool printables here}

{love this one}

{bakers kitchen art}

Get some nice thick paper, a color printer, and get these babies framed and spice up your space!

Tucson Botanical Gardens

2011-10-25T12:34:00.000-10:00

Last weekend, my husband and I went to the Tucson Botanical Gardens. Right now they have the butterfly exhibit and the weather is perfect for a day outdoors. The butterfly exhibit goes from October until April, and is a great opportunity to see tropical butterflies up close and personal.

These are just a few of the photos I snapped during my visit. I am no pro, but they look great. The butterflies are everywhere, you have to be careful not to step on them. There are tropical plants, orchids, plumeria, etc. throughout the greenhouse.

The Gardens are open 8:30-4:30 daily

Pomegranate Trees

Vibrant Colors

MORE beautiful cactus

There is so much to see and the butterflies are amazing.

Handmade Pillow Covers

2011-10-23T19:57:00.000-10:00

My couch is awesome, but it came with super ugly matching pillows. I have been wanting to make covers for them since I first saw them, and today was the day!

The first pillow cover finished. I hand stamped the center fabric with a handmade stamp from The Mayberry Sparrow on etsy, and an "Oh Happy Day" stamp from Michael's.

Envelope fold back {p.s. I LOVE THIS FABRIC}

Awesome stamps. So pretty! The polka dot fabric is from last months quilt show that I went to.

I covered all 3 pillows tonight. WHEW! Yeay! I love them. They brighten up the room and make the couch look comfy. {Hope the hubby likes em}

I think I spent $7 total on these puppies. What a deal. 2 yards of clearance fabric from Home Fabrics in Tucson, a fat quarter of the polka dot fabric, and some plain cream cotton from JoAnn's. (not counting the stamps and fabric stamp pad of course.)

Flanked by the quilt I made for my husband on the left and a vintage fabric quilt that I got at a craft fair in Hawaii, they look awesome! I think that about does it for the living room. Next ~~victim~~ room please.

The B Line

2011-10-21T17:28:00.000-10:00

My husband and I went downtown to 4th avenue the other night to walk around and grab a bite to eat. It was a weeknight, but there were still a lot of people out and we had a good time people watching and window shopping. Oh, and we found street parking in about 5 seconds. That was a nice change from Hawaii. You can't find street parking there without feeling EXTREMELY lucky and awesome for having scored a spot.

{Cody being a good sport, let me take his picture}

We decided to eat at The B Line, my pick. We both had the vodka penne, he got salmon with his. The food was good, the atmosphere cozy and casual, and the bill was decent. You order at the counter and then they bring you your food.

Yum! Garlic bread and pasta...

Beer on tap and wine.

You can sit and people watch looking out at the street, or you can sit upstairs at one of the tables.

The B Line

Open: Sun-Thurs (7-9)

F-S (7-10)

Phone: (520) 882-7575

Located: 621 N. 4th Avenue

Go to their site for menu/location/hours/happy hour specials/wine specials

New Items

2011-10-20T16:10:00.000-10:00

New Tissue Cases in my shop! These are so cute. I use them on my nightstand because I don't like how the big boxes of tissues look. Oh, and they take up nearly ZERO space. LOVE!

I have some new jewelry up too. I love these dangly earrings. I have an identical pair, but mine hang from a hoop. So cute and classy.

Sale is still on until October 30th, so go check it out. The holidays are only a month and a half away, and if you are shipping gifts, you only have about a month! WHoa!

Copper Country Antiques Tucson

2011-10-19T19:49:00.000-10:00

I went to Copper Country Antiques again this weekend. I love going there and spending time walking up and down the aisles. Browsing through each booth and looking at all the old pieces of everyday life.

My favorite things to look at are the kitchen items. I love the bright colored pyrex bowls, the old mixers, and the dishware.

Here are a few of the goodies I found this weekend. I love this milk glass lamp. I couldn't pass it up.

Doesn't it look awesome on my nightstand?

My favorite part is the key turn light switch. Oh, and the milk glassiness, love the bumps and color.

I got this awesome vintage quilt for $10! what? super steal. I was thinking of either re-backing it, because the backing is a little nubby, or using the fabric in my own creations.

I love the retro fabrics.

I also found this super handy jewelry box for $6. Tiny, totally packs a lot of storage space, and in good shape.

Here it is stuffed with some of my jewelry.

Copper Country is a large antique mall. They have over 250 dealers and lots of great stuff.

{photo from copper country website}

You can find them just by looking down the road and seeing this huge buffalo on their roof!

{photo from copper country blog}

This Buffalo is in their parking lot. Love it!

Copper Country is located at 5055 East Speedway

(520) 326-0167

M-S (10-6) Sun (11-5)

Check out their site to go virtual shopping, read up on latest sales and events, and get more info.

Visit their blog for photos of some of their latest additions, sales, and info.

Sabino Canyon

2011-10-17T15:06:00.000-10:00

My husband and I spent a few hours in Sabino Canyon last weekend on his day off. It was really nice to get outside and enjoy the desert. We took the little tram that you can ride into the canyon and enjoyed the late evening there. This would be a great thing for people to do that don't like to hike or can't hike very far. It is almost 4 miles to the top of the tram line if you take the Sabino Canyon Trail. There are nine stops along the way and you can get off and on at any one of them. You can also take the Bear Canyon Trail. It runs all day, so my suggestion is to go early and enjoy the afternoon in the canyon. Maybe have a picnic, or just relax by the stream.

The tram is 2 cars long. You can get the schedule on-line here.

I never would have thought Arizona would look like this.

Look at all the Saguaro sticking up across the hills.

One of the many areas that would make a good spot to rest.

Thimble Peak

I am totally loving being outdoors.

We went in the evening, so we got to see a bit of the sun going down in the mountains. I love the colors during this time of day. So beautiful!

You can learn more about the canyon and the tours on their site. I would highly recommend it to anyone visiting Tucson, even if you don't like walking or hiking. If you like the outdoors, you will love their tours. Plus, you can pretend you went hiking. Nobody will ever know the difference.

New Honda Fit!

2011-10-16T14:43:00.000-10:00

Well... you may remember when I had a minor accident with my Civic earlier this year. I had to say goodbye and stick to the moped until we moved. I recently got a Honda Fit. I love it! It is compact, yet roomy, drives smoothly, is great on gas, and is so cute.

Here I am driving it off the lot. Cody went with me and we spent the day at 2 different places. There was only one white one left... I wanted it. The other colors are kind of ugly, so I was pretty happy that they still had one!

The inside is really cool. It is all back lit and easy to use.

I love the side windows in the front, they remind me of my old bug. Except they don't open and create "air conditioning" like my bug windows did. I also love that it has 57 cubic feet of space when you put the seats down. The seats also go up, and you can slide your bike or large item right in the back door. Pretty sweet! No awkward lifting, and it is really easy to put the seats up or down.

So far I LOVE it. :)

Soft Pretzel Recipe

2011-10-15T17:13:00.000-10:00

A few nights ago I was craving mall pretzels. You know, the super soft cinnamon sugar ones that you used to get all the time in junior high when you went to the mall with your friends? (and MAYBE you still get them when you go just for the pretzels...) Anyways, it was 9:00 at night, no pretzel stands open, and I had to have one. So I found this recipe on allrecipes.com and made some for myself.

Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites

My favorite part was eating the first batch while I kept rolling and baking the others.

Pile of unbaked bites.

When they come out of the oven, brush them with butter and them top them. I tossed them in cinnamon sugar, but you can salt them, dip them and leave them plain, or make up your own. Parprika and garlic, parmesan, garlic powder, icing, etc.

RECIPE:

4 tsp. active dry yeast

1 tsp. white sugar

1 1/4 cups warm water (110 degrees F)

5 cups all purpose flour

1/2 cup white sugar

1/2 tsp. salt

1 Tbsp. vegetable oil

1/2 cup baking soda

4 cups hot water

butter for brushing on top

1. In a small bowl, dissolve yeast and 1 tsp. sugar in warm water. Let stand until creamy, about 10 minutes.

2. In a large bowl, mix together flour, 1/2 cup sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center, and the oil and yeast mixture. Mix and form into a dough. If the mixture is dry, add a tsp or two of water, if it is too wet, add a little flour. Knead the dough until smooth, about 7 or 8 minutes. Lightly oil or spray bowl, place dough in it, and cover with seran wrap. Let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.

3. Preheat oven to 450 degrees. In a large bowl dissolve baking soda in hot water.

4. When risen, turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and divide into 12 equal pieces. Roll into a rope and twist into pretzel shape or cut into bite sized pieces. Dip each pretzel into the baking soda solution and place on a greased baking sheet.

5. Bake in preheated oven for 8 minutes, until browned. Brush with melted butter when they come out and top with salt or cinnamon sugar.

These were super easy. I made them while I watched tv. I froze over half of them and when I want to eat them, I just pop them in the microwave and top them as if they were fresh from the oven. They freeze great and are nice and soft when they are warm.

If you have any questions, feel free to leave them below! Happy pretzel making!

Arizona Sonora Desert Museum

2011-10-14T16:54:00.003-10:00

We went to the Desert Museum again last weekend, it was the perfect day to go. The weather wasn't too hot, they had a reptile talk with a Rattlesnake and Gila monster, and my husband was off work.

The hummingbirds are so beautiful. The area with all the birds in it is one of my favorite.

"Oh, so cute! Cody look at that duck. He's whistling!" Duck then turns his little bent down body towards me and charges while whistling. You would have thought the duck was shooting bullets the way I jumped and ran...

Big Horned Sheep

Hello there HANDSOME.

What a HAM! This beaver totally swam up, paused for a picture for the lady next to us, and then swam away.

Totally wouldn't see these guys in the wild until I was waist deep in toads.

My favorite pic of the day. The prairie dogs and I seem to have a lot in common. Snacking and lounging.

Mountain Lion. Hey buddy.

I want to print some of these and frame them along my big entryway wall. Any votes? I am partial to the beaver, the prarie dog chowing down, and the hummingbird.

Poundcake and Strawberries

2011-10-09T11:32:00.001-10:00

I woke up this morning to a hungry belly and amazing options for breakfast. Last night I was madly searching for a favorite recipe and couldn't find it. So I settled for a poundcake. Settled is not the right word, I was on a rampage. I knew I had seen the recipe, but I have no idea where I put it. So I searched for another hour for something my husband would possibly eat. I will eat anything with sugar in it, I am easy to please in the dessert area.

I found this poundcake recipe in one of my many baking books. Simple, buttery, and so good with berries and whipped cream.

I whipped up some heavy cream and added powdered sugar to taste. If you know me, you know I have a ridiculous love affair with whipped cream. No waffle, french toast, or strawberry is safe. They will be smothered in whipped cream.

I'd say I settled for something amazing. I no longer feel like I settled, but like I found a new favorite. My husband even had some! That is a serious compliment. He pretty much only eats lemon bars from a box, brownies, and cookies from a log. Expanding his desert flavor palette is my secret goal. 1 point for the baker!

Recipe: Pound Cake

2 cups ap flour

1 tsp. baking powder

1/4 tsp. salt

8 oz. unsalted butter at room temp.

1 cup sugar

4 large eggs at room temp.

1 tsp. vanilla

-Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Butter a 9 by 5 or 8 1/2 by 4 1/2 inch loaf pan. Put the pan on top of 2 sheet pans to bake. This will keep the bottom from getting too dark.

-whisk flour, baking powder, and salt together

-cream butter and sugar for 5 minutes until pale and fluffy with a paddle (in a stand mixer)

-scrape down and add eggs one at a time, scraping down between additions and mixing for 1 - 2 minutes after each egg (this creates volume and air in your poundcake)

-add the flour and be careful NOT to OVERMIX. mix just until incorporated on low speed

-scrape into pan and smooth top

-bake 45 minutes, then check. it needs between 70-90 minutes to bake, if it gets too dark, tent the top with foil. check with a knife, when it comes out clean, it is done.

[Recipe from Baking From My Home to Yours]

The book I got this recipe from is Baking { from my home to yours }, by Dorie Greenspan. I also have her Paris Sweets book which is awesome. If you are interested in free recipes and more information you should definitely check out her site, this link will take you to her recipes. Not a baker? Not to worry, she has recipes from starters and entrees to salads and side. She even has a new app for ipod.

Sweet Sunny Day Shops

2011-10-06T20:32:00.000-10:00

I have been busy crafting and creating and I wanted to share a few things! I have also been trying to start filling up my shops, slowly it is all coming along. I try to list at least one thing a day.

I made this nook case out of soft flannel and layered it with some batting to protect the reader. I take my kindle with me everywhere, so I thought this would be pretty awesome. It even has pockets for cash/IDs. Sweet!

I added a few items to my accessories shop... More knits to come. I have knitting fever with winter on the way!

I also added another cute set of coasters to my home shop today! Pale yellow quilted anime coasters. These would look banging in a dorm... Or at your computer desk!

To top the day off, I added a few pairs of earrings to the jewelry shop. Bracelets and more to come tomorrow.

Remember the SECRET SHOP SALE going on NOW! 25% off at any of my shops from now until Oct. 30th. Just enter SHHHH at checkout... I will combine shipping costs too, just convo me after purchase and I will refund the difference!

Quilted Table Cover

2011-10-04T13:26:00.000-10:00

I have been really loving my craft room since I got it all set up and ready to go. One of the first big projects I made was this quilted table cover. It is made with strips of fabric and is backed with 2 large pieces of fabric.

Here it is in the planning stages. I knew I wanted something green/gray/brownish, but I couldn't resist adding extra color!

The top is all finished and looking good. I really like this style of quilt. So fast and simple.

Here it is on my table. The coffee table is glass and we needed something to protect it from scratches, chipping, and damage. This seems to do the trick.

Already well used, I really like the colors in the living room. SUCCESS.

Here is a peek at my creative desk. It is where I do most of my projects.

HOOOOOO.... My owl and yarn sit together nicely.

Bird Nerd on Etsy

2011-10-03T09:31:00.003-10:00

One of my favorite etsy artists is BIRD NERD. I love the colors, shapes, and subjects that she works with.

I love this owl print. So cute, yet spooky. This would look cool in any home. Get an 8 by 10 print for only $20.

Don't have any room for art right now? Check out this awesome note cards. She hand makes the envelopes out of magazine pages, and the little bird can say whatever you want!

Want a teeny tiny original? This little hummingbird is 2.5 by 3.5 for $45. Wouldn't it look cool on your desk or framed on a small wall?

Christmas is coming up and these little plush birds would be a cute gift for a bird lover in your family. Put it on the tree or hang it in your personal space to add a touch of color. So snazzy.

Those are just a few of my favorites. Start stocking up for Christmas early and you will miss the mad rush and actually enjoy your shopping!

{All images are taken from birdnerd.etsy.com}

Secret Shop Sale!

2011-09-29T13:17:00.000-10:00

I now have 3 etsy shops and I am slowly getting them up and running. I wanted to have a shop sale for all of my blog readers and their friends, so visit any of my shops and enter SHHHH at checkout and get 25% off! Easy enough, huh? Start your Christmas shopping early this year, the sale is on from now until October 25th. So tell your friends and start shopping!

You can shop for jewelry at my jewelry shop.

Fun Accessories at my accessory shop.

Or get cute stuff for your home at my home shop.

More stuff is going up everyday, so keep checking back, and remember: Christmas is right around the corner! Stocking Stuffers, gifts for mom, gifts for friends, and gifts for YOU!

Happy Late Birthday to Me

2011-09-26T19:30:00.000-10:00

My birthday is July 4th. I share it with my twin brother, and when we are all together, we spend the day as a family. This year, I was lucky enough to have my ENTIRE family together. Both of my brothers and their girlfriends, my husband, and my parents. It was awesome. We rented a pontoon and went out into Kaneohe Bay and did some RELAXING. It was a great way to spend the day.

My brother and his soon to be wife walking down to the boat.

Looking out at the bay. You can see Chinaman's Hat in the distance.

Me and Tammy keeping an eye out for coral.

Captain Dad, making sure he doesn't run the boat on coral or the rocks. That is no fun!

My mom and my twin, Ryan. Enjoying the sunshine.

Everybody running out to the sand bar.

Great day to be out on the water. Thanks everybody for a great birthday celebration.

Free Printable Gnome Art

2011-09-25T18:44:00.000-10:00

I have a thing for gnomes. I like their little hats, the woodland creatures they are often seen with, and the toadstools that surround their homes. I have been searching etsy for gnome art for my home, and this is what I came up with. These are my top favorites...

You can view all items on etsy by clicking here.

Have a favorite? I am leaning towards the knitting gnome or the little gnome house. They are both super cute. The knitting gnome would go great in my new craft room.

I also created a little printable gnome art for my fellow gnome lovers...

Print it out and cut it to fit into a 5 by 7 frame. I am putting this little guy in my entry way.

Desk Organizer Makeover

2011-09-24T18:23:00.001-10:00

I went to Savers today and found this shabby plain desk organizer. I was in the market for one, so I thought about it and decided to give it a makeover. I got it for $3.99. Then I went to Michael's and got some sky blue paint for 1.19. Then I got some stickers from K&C Company that were fake hardware stickers. They work great and look like the real thing. I also got a sponge brush for .39. Total cost: under $6.00 with tax.

Here it is all laid out on an extra piece of cardboard from an Ikea box. First I sanded everything I could get to.

Then I painted it with 2 coats of the sky blue paint. After it dried, I put on the hardware stickers. They look great and are actually pretty sturdy.

Then I made labels to fit inside of the stickers by hand stamping them. I really like how it looks with my milk glass planter. ICE BLUE is my new favorite color...

What do you think? I found other desk organizers that were remotely stylish for over $25.00. I would say this is a SUCCESS!

Sweet Sunny Day Etsy Shops

2011-09-19T15:50:00.000-10:00

Good evening everyone! I have been sewing up a storm and I started 3 new etsy shops today.

The first one is for my jewelry: www.sweetsunnydayjewelry.etsy.com

I haven't listed much yet, but by the end of the week it will be full of new items! Check out these earrings here.

The second one is for home items: www.sweetsunnydayhome.etsy.com

My first item is this little birdie. You can use it as a pin cushion, a decoration, a toy, etc. I love birds so I am making a ton more of these. If there is a color combo you would like to see, send me a little note!

I also opened a shop for accessories: www.sweetsunnydaylane.etsy.com

I am always looking for ways to carry tissues in a less sloppy way. This is a total fix.

I fell in love with this lemon fabric and have been making tons of stuff with it. Placemats, coasters, tissue holders, etc. This won't be the last you see of it! Click here to see this in my shop.

Fabric Placemat Tutorial

2011-09-17T14:00:00.000-10:00

I love quick and easy projects like this one that is both functional and decorative. This fabric placemat tutorial can also be used to make coasters, mug rugs, etc. It will only take an afternoon to make a whole set.

You can cut it any size you want really, some people like smaller placemats, some like them larger.

Super quick and easy! Good luck and happy sewing! If you make a placemat or coaster from this tutorial I would love to see pictures.

Quilted Placemats

2011-09-16T11:30:00.000-10:00

I got my sewing machine today and made my first project! I love the machine so far, and can't wait to test it's limits. On to the placemats though. I got some stunning fabric at Hancock Fabrics two days ago and I couldn't wait to use it.

Rotary Cutter, Cutting Mat, and Ruler. CHECK!

Finished product. Love em love em love em.

I made a few coasters too. I tried out making my own labels as well and I really like how they turned out.

An owl, hello, and my name. Cute labels.

Melmac vintage mug goes perfect with my new rectangular coaster.

Dinner time! Now we have something to put our dishes on that protects our table and looks great. Tutorial to come soon.

Tucson Road Trips

2011-09-15T20:21:00.000-10:00

Road trips have been a topic of dreams for the past 9 years of my life. Living in Hawaii, we would "road trip" to the North Shore, or to Ka'ena Point. We could never go for hours and end up in entirely different parts of the Nation. I missed that, and I have been taking advantage of the road trip possibilities since I arrived back on the mainland.

Road trip #1 was our trip to Ikea in Phoenix. We had a very long day in Ikea, followed by a nice hour and a half drive back to Tucson.

Road trip #2 was our trip to Tombstone, about an hour and a half South of Tucson. It was a trip back in time to the Old West.

Road trip #3 was our trip to Mt. Lemmon outside of Tucson. It also takes about an hour and a half to get to, and it was amazing. It feels like you are in the mountains of Colorado, complete with a ski resort at the top of the mountain.

I can't wait to see what other road trips we tackle! Everything is within driving distance. So freaking exciting.

Handmade Anniversary Gift

2011-09-14T20:33:00.000-10:00

My husband and I got married 3 months ago and since we are in a new home, in a new city, I decided to give him a little gift. I framed our vows and put them on our dresser for him to find when he came home from work. We both wrote our own vows, so it was a little more meaningful than the traditional "to have and to hold" stuff.

I typed them up on my computer and used 2 different fonts. One for my vows, one for his. Then I switched them around for the highlighted portions in blue. I just chose some of the more important words/phrases to highlight.

Then I put them in 8 by 10 frames on our new IKEA dresser. :)

Don't they look nice next to a few of our engagement pictures?

Cody really liked them and I was really pleased with how they turned out. If you are looking for the fonts, I used Olivetti Type 2 (typewriter) and Sunshine in My Soul (script). Click on the names to download them.

Tips for Setting up a Desert Buffet

2011-09-12T09:00:00.000-10:00

No party is complete without an amazing desert buffet. There is more than just making the deserts and picking out candy though. The display and set-up of the buffet is just as important as what you put on it. One of my main responsibilities at my last job was to prepare each buffet and set it up.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when planning/setting up a desert buffet:

1. Think height. It is visually appealing to have items staged at different heights. Use cake stands, platforms, risers, stack plates under linen, etc.

2. Think color. You don't want to place all items of a similar color in one place unless you are going for a one colored buffet. It tends to look blah. As in the photo below, you can alternate colors and still carry a theme. ( ie: pink and orange )

3. Think pairs. If you have similar items, put them together. Ex. sugar cookies and chocolate chip cookies/ brownies and blondies/ chocolate and vanilla cupcakes. These fondant covered sugar cookies and madeleines look great together, and have more of a wow factor when paired.

4. Think grouping. If you have a lot of different items all over the buffet, try to group them together so they look more appealing. The cupcakes have been placed into little groups with the candy. They look more unified and bring out the color scheme even more.

5. Think Signage and Decor. You can't expect people to know what you are serving, and who wants to eat a raisin cookie you thought was chocolate chip?

Simple signs and decorations make your buffet look more put together. No one will be guessing if that is Grandma's fudge cake, or Vanilla Raspberry Cupcakes.

Little cupcake decorations, plants, flowers, etc. can make your buffet POP!

Other things to consider:

People love chocolate, always have at least one chocolate item.

Cookies are a no-brainer. Everyone will eat a cookie.

If you put it on a stick, it is instantly SO COOL. Try it.

If you are running out of ideas, try filling in your buffet with candy.

Guests will appreciate little bags to take home goodies. You can find color coordinating paper bags at most local craft stores.

Top your cupcakes with toppers. It adds extra height and color.

You can find tons of cupcake topper templates on-line, buy them at Wal-Mart, or make you own with paper and toothpicks.

All of my photos are from my friend Glorianne's beautiful wedding. She made a huge variety of sweets and did a fantastic job getting everything ready to set up. She pre-filled her candy containers, packed her items neatly and labeled them, and had a list of everything that should be on the buffet. She also had the signs ready to go, as well as decor and flower petals. All I had to do was come and set it up. It is easy when you are prepared and ready to let your buffet sell itself.

Mount Lemmon

2011-09-11T09:02:00.000-10:00

Mount Lemmon is about an hour and a half outside of Tucson, but you would never know it. At the top of the mountain is a skiing area, woods you would expect to see in Colorado, and temperatures less than 20 degrees that of Tucson. Bring your jacket and mittens, you aren't in the desert anymore. To go to their official site, click here.

We drove up in early September and it was a refreshing 66 degrees, while in Tucson it was about 105 degrees. For a map and directions, click here.

During the drive, the surroundings change from city, to open desert, to winding wind blown rocky roads, and end up in a stunning forest of pines and aspens.

Wide mountain roads were easy to drive.

There is also a Sky Center on the top of Mount Lemmon. To read more about it, click here.

Bright blue Arizona sky.

Open rock for miles with cacti all over it. I would love to come back and do some hiking. There are tons of trails from the base all the way to to top. Read more about them here.

We road the ski lift at the top and enjoyed an amazing view of the surrounding mountains and the ski routes. There were wildflowers below the lift and trees all around.

At the top of the lift, we got off and walked around for a little while, took some photos, and enjoyed the cooler air.

The view from the top was amazing.

The lift was pretty empty, but we weren't the only ones there.

Looking down from the lift.

The map of all the routes. It looks like I will be skiing this winter after all. Pray for snow!

Carved aspen trees. These will be beautiful in the fall. We are so excited to go back.

You could see the ski routes, which was pretty cool. I kept looking for the easy ones, and my husband was scoping out the black diamond routes.

Arizona Sonora Desert Museum

2011-09-09T19:11:00.002-10:00

Today I went to the Arizona Sonora Desert Museum. It is more of a zoo with a lot of plants and animals from the desert. All I can say is ... very cool. I loved to cacti throughout, all of the animals, and even the reptile exhibit. They have an extensive gift shop as well with local art, and a cafe. What more can you ask for in a desert museum?

This is the road to the museum, only about 20 minutes from our house in Northern Tucson.

They are open every day, here are their hours.

October - February

8:30 am - 5:00 pm (no entry after 4:15 pm)

March - May

7:30 am - 5:00 pm (no entry after 4:15 pm)

June - August

Sun-Fri: 7:00 am - 4:30 pm (no entry after 3:45 pm)
Sat: 7:00 am - 10:00 pm (no entry after 9:15 pm)

September

7:00 am - 4:30 pm (no entry after 3:45 pm)

More of the drive to the museum.

Here is a map taken from their website. It really is right outside the city.

Some of the many cacti in the cactus garden. For an interactive map of all the exhibits, click here.

One of the animals that wasn't hiding in the shade, the big horn sheep. I loved these guys, so I was pretty stoked they were up and moving about. Great picture, I know, but at least this one isn't sleeping.

I love the hot weather and the great outdoors! The museum is located on 21 acres of desert and has almost 2 miles of walking paths. I would recommend bringing water, a camera, sunscreen, a hat, and an attitude for discovery. Wear cool clothing and closed toed shoes so you can really explore.

This was a giant grasshopper in the hummingbird exhibit. I was just waiting for one to jump out onto my shoulder and make me scream!

To view up to date hours, rates, and directions, click here.

I loved all the cacti with the flowers. So beautiful!

Hiding in the shade like the rest of the animals. We saw a resting Ocelot, Bobcat, and a Mountain Lion. I was hoping to see them acting crazy, so heads up, they don't like the heat either. Weird, huh?

At least the bobcats were out and about, but I didn't get a very good picture. You get the idea. There are all kinds of desert cats, javelinas, coati, tortoise, reptiles, birds of prey, hummingbirds, porcupine, etc. It is well worth the $14.50 to get in. We got the family membership for $65, which gets you 2 membership cards, free coffee and tea at the cafe, 3 guest passes, and all kinds of other goodies. So check it out, you won't be disappointed

Oregano's Tucson

2011-09-08T15:59:00.002-10:00

I have been settling in to Tucson in the past 4 days, and I like it a lot so far. Today we went to Oregano's , an amazing pizza bistro. The portions were huge and delicious, and the dining area was cozy and smelled great.

We sat in one of their huge corner booths. We went around 2:00 on a Thursday and it was about half full. Not too bad.

Cool retro images are scattered around the restaurant, and the menus have a variety of fun prints on the cover.

We ordered Bruschetta, El Diablo pasta with shrimp, and the Big Rig pasta.

The tomatoes were so fresh and they were piled high. I couldn't have been more pleased with my lunch! Well, maybe if someone had told me the portions were colossal so I could have gotten excited about leftovers ahead of time.

The Big Rig Pasta with chipotle cream sauce, tomatoes, and basil. So good!

If you want to read more reviews or get directions, click here.

Tombstone, Arizona

2011-09-07T21:03:00.000-10:00

I am officially moved to Arizona, and one of the first things we did was drive to Tombstone. It is a classic old west town. You may know it from the famous film, Tombstone, Wyatt Earp, Doc Holliday, or the site of the famous gunfight. My husband loves that stuff, so it was a must see!

The O.K. Corral where they re-enact the gunfight daily. Pretty cool to see. If you want to read up on Tombstone, check out this site.

The view on the way from Tucson, beautiful. It is about an hour and a half drive from Tucson. Such a change from the driving on Oahu.

A sign in front of one of the saloons.

The "bad guys" in the re-enactment. They didn't last long...

They were laying in the sun for so long, I felt really bad for them. How do they do it everyday? Long pants, coats, long sleeved shirts. It was so hot! Like 104 degrees hot.

The lawmen, walking the town's main street.

Talking trash before the re-enactment.

My husband, totally in his element. I asked him to get on the saddle, but the rest is all him. Woo HOOO! Here is another site you can get more information on. If you want to make it more of a full day, you can stop in Benson and Bisbee for some more Western flair.

My first quilt

2011-09-01T22:59:00.001-10:00

I finally finished my first quilt! It was a present for my husband... About 3 years ago. Long time in the making and that makes it even more special.

My mom helped a lot. She taught me how to piece it together, baste it, quilt it, and bind it. Thanks mom. I could not have done it without you.

I hope he likes it! It is so cozy and masculine. I don't know how you couldn't love it.

Front and back view of the quilt. Zig zag quilting and a very tropical back fabric.

Thanks again mom. I really like it. I can't wait for the next one!

Kitchen Aid Stand Mixer

2011-08-31T01:39:00.002-10:00

I am dreaming of baking and creating masterpieces of sweets. All this leads to one important tool, a kitchen aid stand mixer. I found one I love, and I can't wait to mix up madness with it!

Yep, there it is. Ice blue, 5 quart artisan mixer. WOW. I love it.

Looking at mixers got me all mixer crazy! I love this print from etsy.

Looks like I'm not the only one who loves a good stand mixer... Get this print here.

This $17 stamp is so cute and would be so fun to make homemade labels with!

For all the forgetful bakers out there, there is a vinyl decal with measurement equivalents on it just for you. Now you don't have to guess how many ounces are in a pound, or how many tablespoons are in a cup. So convenient and handy for under $10!

Where your heart on your sleeve, with this rad mixing bowl t-shirt, only $22 on etsy.

I'll leave you with this. Same color as the one I am dreaming of! Coincidence? I think not...

Last Day of Work

2011-08-20T17:20:00.001-10:00

I had my last day of work yesterday and I am supposed to be doing ALL the moving out in the next 2 days. It is a crazy process and I feel like I got a lot done, but it sure doesn't look like it. So, here I am, taking a little break. Here are a few of the things I will miss making at my job.

This may sound weird, but I liked making truffle pops. I made these ones a few weeks ago. Jasmine Tea ganache. YUM.

Who doesn't love cupcakes? A total power in numbers dessert.

My favorite part of my job: setting up buffets! I loved making the menus, prepping the desserts, plating, and then setting them up. A true start to finish task. I like to see things all the way through and I got to every week.

I won't really miss making cake tastings, but I love how they look. I certainly enjoyed eating the cake and the frostings too. I will miss that part of my job a lot! Eating all the sweets we make... Hopefully I can say goodbye to about 10 pounds in the next month or so, thanks to this job. :)

French Macaroon Madness

2011-08-16T23:48:00.000-10:00

I have made almost every color of macaroon I can think of in the past 2 years at my current job. I love bright colors with ganache filling, lilikoi buttercream, and cream cheese filling. Here are a few of my favorite combinations...

Purple: Cream Cheese Filling

Yellow: Lilikoi buttercream

Hot Pink: Lilikoi buttercream (yep, I love lilikoi!)

White fluffy things: Homemade marshmallows

Green Tea: Matcha Powder/Buttercream

Hot Pink: Black Sesame & Black Sesame Buttercream

White: Coconut/Ganache

Coral: Ganache filled

These are just a few of my favorite combinations. Much more to come on macaroons. So fun and versatile. You can make them ANY color and flavor. If you want to try them for yourself, check out my post with a recipe here.

Rice Krispie Treat Fruit Sushi

2011-08-14T11:34:00.003-10:00

I love rice krispie treats. I love fresh fruit. Oh, and I love making cute bite size treats for summer! What better way to wow your friends than with these super easy Rice Krispie Treat SUSHI?

STEP 1: Make rice krispie treats

(directions and ingredients taken from kellogs rice krispie treat site.)

Put your rice krispie treats in a half sheet pan lined with parchment paper, or a square container, as noted above.

When treats have hardened, cut them into bite size squares or roll them into nigiri sushi pieces.

Then slice any seasonal fresh fruit you have on hand and place on top of rice krispie treats, as in above photo. If you would like to glaze them so they are shiny, you can mix apricot preserves with water and boil it. When it has boiled and still hot, you can brush the glaze on the fruit to add a nice shine. The fruit above has been glazed. It adds a more finished touch and helps keep the fruit from browning.

Banana Chocolate Mousse Torte

2011-08-13T23:26:00.000-10:00

I have been dreaming about this dessert for at least a year. One of my favorite things to eat at work is our banana tiramisu. I also LOVE chocolate mousse. One day, I dipped a mini chocolate mousse dome into a bowl of banana tiramisu. VOILA! This dream was born.

Here she is, the BANANA CHOCOLATE MOUSSE TORTE.

Start with a layer of chocolate devil's food cake, then add roasted banana marscapone mousse, and top with a silky rich chocolate mousse. Oh man! This is so good...

TUTORIAL AND RECIPE COMING SOON!

Terbearco Stamps (I freakin love em!)

2011-08-08T17:53:00.001-10:00

Today I was doing my usual browse through etsy, which always turns from 5 minutes into an hour... I stumbled across Terbearco Collectibles.

I love this address label stamp! You can get it here for $24.99. The birdie is not included, but what a cute idea. This would be great for invitations, Christmas gifts, postcards, and regular old envelopes.

Or get your own custom business stamp to make your own tags and business cards. It looks so professional, but only costs $24.99! Get it here.

I thought this was pretty hilarious! My husband would totally love to go around stamping with these. :) Mythbusters fans unite.

If you are more into small and simple, there are tons of little fun ones like this too for $6.99.

I liked this one a lot too. It would look really cool on custom stationery or envelopes.

Lace Embellished Dishware

2011-08-04T22:50:00.002-10:00

I can't wait to try these out! Lace embellished dishware. Oh MY!

Source: urbancomfort.typepad.com via Katie on Pinterest

Handmade Bridesmaid Gifts

2011-07-30T15:47:00.000-10:00

Don't know what to give your bridesmaids but want something personal, useful, and unique? Look no further! I made these super cute pouches out of bright material from Kaimuki Dry Goods and then filled them with an "emergency wedding day kit." They were well received and I enjoyed making them. :)

Stuffed to the max!

I embellished each one with pockets, ribbon, and rick rack so they would all be a little different.

Sunscreen, breath mints, deodorant, hairbands, wet wipes, and lip gloss were among other things.

The inside of each bag was a pink satiny material that I loved! I am going to start making these for sale in the next few months, so keep your eyes out on my new shop kateandruby! They would make great gifts for any occasion, but I really like that they are all alike, but different for bridal party gifts.

Free Printable Photo Booth Props

2011-07-28T15:32:00.001-10:00

My wedding had an amazing handmade photo booth with props to boot. Here are a few of the awesome props that I used and links to print your own. If you are on the fence about having a photo booth at your next party, just do it! The pictures are so candid and fun and people will loosen up just playing in the booth. You can't go wrong. All of these printables are from other blogs/sites. Please click on the links below each photo to be taken to the proper sites to print and use them.

Get this printable from Oh Happy Day.

These super fun staches and lips are from Catch My Party.

(click the link above to get it!)

Another seriously bomb printable from Oh Happy Day

I think the lips and the beards are so rockin! It takes so little effort to make such a cute prop! Print em out here at craftzee.

A few more from The Pretty Blog can be found here.

I also printed these (from The Pretty Blog) to give people as they exited the booth with our picture site on the back. Then I uploaded all their photos instead of printing them out, saving time and money.

You can view photos of the props we used and see which ones you like for yourself here. My favorites were the hats surprisingly! They were so fun.

Freebie: Thank you card printable clip-art

2011-07-26T15:09:00.000-10:00

I made my thank you cards for my wedding and my bridal shower and I thought I would share the ones from the shower. I got the clip art frame from graphicsfairy. Graphics Fairy has every kind of clip art you could imagine! Here is the image. I just copied and pasted it into a word document, shrunk it to size, and then printed it.

Click on it to get it in its full size and then just copy it to your computer. I put 2 per page and cut them out, but you can make them as large or as small as you like! Have fun with it. I stamped the back of each card with a custom stamp from etsy too.

Bridal Shower Fun!

2011-07-24T15:06:00.001-10:00

My mom threw me an amazing bridal shower last month and I never had a chance to share! My mom threw me an amazing wine tasting shower with dinner, cheese, and games! We had dinner catered by Zia's in Kailua. It was awesome! The cheese was from Costco and was a huge hit, and the wine was a collection of splurge vs. steal!

The girls waiting for the games to begin on my parents top deck.

Well into our 5th bottle of wine perhaps. I think we were making our own blends by this photo.

My husbands family and my grandmother taking it all in.

The famous steal vs. splurge! What a great idea.

CHeers!

Kaela and Janine

Getting ready to begin.

We set up 4 different types of wine, ie: merlot, cab, chardonnay, then we had one splurge and one steal for each type. They were covered in burlap and you had to try to guess which was the splurge and which was the steal. It was a great way for everyone to enjoy themselves and get a little wild! Thanks mom, it was a GREAT party!

Moving to Tucson, Arizona

2011-07-21T19:43:00.001-10:00

In my last post I hinted at some pretty big news. Well.... there it is! I am moving with my husband to Tucson, Arizona. We already got an apartment and I am getting rid of the bundle that is my home here in Hawaii. Selling my surfboards, moped, and other pieces of Hawaii and thinking about what Arizona has to offer. I am excited, bummed, and most of all ready. I hate waiting for things to happen and I have known for about a month that we will be moving in the beginning of September and it is just a big waiting game! :)
Here is what I am doing to keep myself busy while I wait.

Hiking around the island and visiting my favorite ridges one last time.

Spending quality time with the people I care about.

Taking in the scenery along the South East Shoreline.

I will miss you Hawaii. The past 9 years have been amazing. Thank you.

Half.com

2011-07-11T18:46:00.001-10:00

I have started selling a bunch of my movies, books, and video games on half.com. They are all super cheap and in great condition. If you are looking for some good summer movies or tv series, check it out.

My Half.com Shop

Some of the stuff I am selling:: Rescue Me, Nip Tuck, Rome, When Harry Met Sally, Eclipse (Twilight) audio book. I know, riveting! I love tv series with no commercials, so I tend to have a lot of them! Hmmm... why would I be selling things on-line?? I have some big news... next time!

Bossypants by Tina Fey

2011-07-09T11:27:00.002-10:00

Laugh out loud funny! I just finished Tina Fey's bossy pants and I loved it. If you like watching Tina Fey, you will love reading through her voice. She is nonstop funny.

She starts from the beginning, pictures of her childhood that are goofy and real. Then continues to talk about the start of her career, her time on Saturday Night Live, and then 30 Rock.

You can't help but laugh as she describes feeling like a star, posing in skimpy clothes, and then asking -- "You're gonna airbrush this, right?"

She describes how she started dressing up as Sarah Palin, and her first sketch with Amy (above).

If you are looking for a quick summer read, this is perfect!

Our Wedding at Haiku Gardens

2011-07-01T20:52:00.000-10:00

Our wedding was fantastic! Here are some pictures from Kai-Photo, our photographer. He did an awesome job.

Gotta love being a bride.

Our getaway cart (to the restaurant)

This one took some serious gusto from Cody!

Blessed by the rain.

My little dreams come true.

Best part: everyone danced! Mom and Melissa get down to the fruit roll up dance!

Thanks girls! You all look beautiful.

"Turn and smile." Grandpa (the REV-E)

Wedding Photo Booth

2011-06-27T16:39:00.000-10:00

I got married last week and we made a photo booth for the big day. It was so much fun! Here is a shot of me and my girls! Thanks for helping make our wedding sooo much fun!

Me and my hubby

The Groom's Parents (my new in-laws!) Hamming it up.

My brother and his girlfriend Tammy, love the props!

The girls and the groom. Lucky MAN!

Super Easy Place Card Holder Tutorial

2011-06-17T14:30:00.016-10:00

One of the many projects that I made for my wedding were these place card holders. I used them to decorate my dessert buffet. (More pictures to come) They are easy to make and add a lot of personality to your party! Use them for almost anything you need a little holder for : signs, pictures, table numbers, place card holders, etc.

What you will need:

Glue gun

Moss (I used preserved Reindeer Moss which can be found at your local craft store)

Florist foam

A cutting/work mat or table

Knife

Silk or real flowers ( I used silk so I could make them far in advance)

Take the florist foam and cut it into handy pieces with your knife. You can make them pretty much any size. Then take the glue gun and start gluing the moss around the foam until you can't see it anymore. Voila! Moss covered and cute... Next you will place the flowers into the foam, cut the stems short and poke them in securely. Then you can add your metal stem/holder. You can purchase them or make them yourself. (Tutorial to come for making them yourself, super easy!)

Be very careful as the glue from the glue gun is HOT and you will be placing your hands all around it in order to place the moss on the foam.

I added hand stamped and laminated signs for my dessert bar, but you could just put cards, photos, or whatever you like! Get creative. And THAT is IT!

Bridal Underwear Tutorial

2011-06-07T17:03:00.000-10:00

Do you love those cute little undies that say "Bride to Be" or " Soon to Be Mrs. SO and SO"? Me too! I of course always want to make my own, and I actually like them better than any of the ones that I saw on-line to buy and they were way cheaper to make myself. Here is a short and simple tutorial on how to get those adorable panties to wear around on your honeymoon.

Step 1: Find some super cute and comfy underwear that have a large backside. Preferably 100% cotton as the transfer method is the most successful with cotton. I found these ones for around $5 or $6 bucks for a pack of 3 at Wal-Mart. (Hanes) Wash and dry them before you begin.

Step 2: Find an image that you would like to transfer to your panties. I found mine at Wedding Chicks.

You can get the image above here. Just input Brides name as Mrs. and grooms name as your new last name. Then where it says Month Date Year, you can input whatever you would like the bottom to say.

Ex: Month-Forever, Date-&, Year-Always. Get it?? Then you pick your color and click submit. For this project, I chose a dark color and all the same color for each element. Keeping it simple makes the transfer easy to read.

Step 3: You are going to need to flip your image. Mine is already flipped above, but all you have to do is right click your image once you save it to your desktop and open it in Paint. Then go to the top where it says ROTATE. You will flip your image vertically and then rotate it 180 degrees so it is upright.

Step 4: Print your image onto transfer paper and then cute around image, leaving rounded edges. While you are printing, you can preheat your iron. Next you need to find a hard surface to iron on. Preferably something that won't burn. :) I chose a cheap tv table to iron on. It also helps if it is about waist level as you can get more leverage to apply pressure.

Step 5: Then you are going to place something stiff, like a piece of cardboard inside the underwear to create a nice tight fit and to separate the layers of material. Next, place your design carefully in the middle of the butt and iron firmly. Make sure you get the edges really good, they tend to peel away. Iron for a few minutes and then remove from heated area and let cool completely. Then you can peel away the backing and VOILA!

Panties for under $5 each! These would be a super easy gift for your bridesmaids with their names or something funny on them too. You could even tie-dye white underwear and then go nuts with the transfers. The possibilities are endless and they take less than 20 minutes to make from start to finish!

Here is another little something you could use as an iron on. I just used a free bird graphic and typed Bride underneath and flipped it. EASY AS PIE! Good luck!

Hawaii Bachelorette Party

2011-06-06T18:12:00.000-10:00

Last night my girls threw me the best bachelorette party ever! Let me start from the beginning...

First, my friend Nat picked me up and took me into Waikiki to meet up with all the girls. Then we got on a trolley for the Screamer! a speed boat ride at Kewalo Basin.

The girls, Nat and Glo

Ready to get wet on the screamer??

We started up front! Woo HOOOO!

WOO HOO! We survived the Screamer! :)

After we drove around and relived my life in stages, we ended up here. Portlock has the most amazing views and a sunset candel lit dinner was in the mix!

Check out the white tablecloth, LED candles, white homemade poms, and a spread of food that would make anyone hungry! You girls are AWESOME!

Me in my new veil and outfit from the girls. :) Notice the star on my shirt, my favorite!

Pasta salad with pesto, strawberry and almond salad, and french bread with balsamic vinegar and oil. Champagne and sodas and of course CHOCOLATE CAKE!

Thank you for the most thoughtful and amazing DAY! We even ended the night at my favorite bar in Waikiki- NASHVILLE. For a night of country music dancing and crazy times. Me loves!

Free Wedding Invitations

2011-06-06T10:54:00.001-10:00

Too bad my wedding is coming up in about 9 days, because this invitation being offered at Wedding Chicks website is incredible! You can customize the text and colors to whatever you want.

Click here to download.

You could use this for your bridal shower, bachelorette party, rehearsal dinner, or the actual wedding. The words are all fully customizable, so get on it and make yourself something cute and free for your special day!

I love... MOSS!

2011-05-30T23:56:00.001-10:00

I love moss. I love stumbling upon it when I hike, finding it along the road, and I love what these etsy sellers have done with it. Why do I love moss? It is vibrantly colored, soft, lush, and full of life. Yet so simple and it grows everywhere.

Photo and Terrarium from here.

A live moss pendant! Who doesn't want this?? Photo and pendant can be found here.

Perfect for the outdoor ceremony... Photo and ring bearer pillow HERE.

This wreath would look good all year long... Find it here.

The perfect gift for the girl who has everything. They make earrings too. Go check it out!

In case you don't want to make your own moss pommanders... go pick these up. I will be posting a tutorial on these in a few weeks, so don't go anywhere!

Last but not least. This little canoe is creative, functional, and beautiful. Stunning. Get one here.

Shark in Kaneohe Bay!

2011-05-27T12:08:00.001-10:00

I went kayaking yesterday in Kaneohe Bay with my brother. We walked down the hill with the kayaks from my parents house, about a 7 minute walk, and launched our kayaks. It was a beautiful day. Amazingly beautiful, slightly windy, but for the bay, it was a great day.

We started on the far right side of this picture and made our way across the bay. At about the halfway point to Coconut Island, I felt a bump I got a little jumpy, I told myself maybe it was nothing, just me slapping my paddle on the side of my boat. Yeah, thats it.

I tried to concentrate on how much fun I was having. How lucky I was to be on the water... You know, the usual. :)

About 5 minutes later, my brother saw a huge shark 2 feet behind his kayak. What??!! I was FaReaKing out. Yeah, so was he. We got together and paddled as fast as we could towards Coconut Island. The little island in the bay. At least the shallow reef would give us a better view of what was below us/behind us. Then we calmed down, and sprinted across the deep water between the island and the pier and docked our kayaks on a rocky beach.

When Ryan looked behind him and saw a huge fin and tail end of a gray shark thrashing in the water, I am pretty sure we both had a huge RUSH of adrenaline. I thought one of us was going to get knocked out and then we'd really be in trouble. We both just wanted to get out of the water, and away from the shark. Thank goodness for the reef around Coconut Island and the little pier less than a few minutes away. We made it out Cody picked us up and drove us back to our house so we could get a car to throw our kayaks on. Next time I go in the bay, I will be thinking of this, and of what is around me! I feel like a wuss but I am glad we didn't have anything worse happen.

Wahiawa Pineapple Run 2011

2011-05-24T22:47:00.002-10:00

I did the Pineapple Run in Wahiawa last weekend and it was great fun! I ran with a my friend Melissa and my mom. Well, my mom kicked our butts by 2 minutes, but we ran the first half together. :) I hadn't been running much, but we made our best time yet!

Oh, I forgot to mention we ran as gnomes! :)

This run takes you through Wahiawa and winds on country roads near the pineapple fields. You aren't exactly running right next to them, but they aren't far away. :) I was somehow picturing running through them.... That would have been a red dirt mess.

Pre-run. Getting our gnome on...

We were the only ones in costume. Huh. Didn't everyone else get the memo? Pineapple Run, in costume this year??

We got a free pineapple after we finished the run. They were so yummy! Each person got a pineapple and a t-shirt for participating. Best prize yet!

If you ran and are looking for results, click here:: http://www.timelinehawaii.com/2011_races.htm

Engagement Photos

2011-05-13T23:38:00.000-10:00

The other day I had my hair and makeup trial and I used that blam look for my engagement pictures. My brother and his girlfriend helped us out and took our photos at our favorite beach Lanikai!

We went to 3 different spots along Lanikai and came out with 600 something pictures. I picked about 100 of them that I LOVE, which is pretty amazing.

I can't thank them enough for taking such beautiful pictures, although the white sand and blue water didn't hurt. :)

We had to make up our own poses and we brought a few props, but it was fun! And... we got so many great shots of the Windward Side.

We started at a little beach in front of the twin islands, then went a few blocks down to the long stretch of Lanikai, then to the tide pools right around the corner, then we got shave ice at Kailua Beach Park right next door and enjoyed the "woodsy" scenery.

Gotta have the props...

Boo wind, I wanted to sport my love banner!

Much Aloha... Thank you so much guys for taking our pictures! I can highly recommend them for anyone else looking for great photos on a budget. They take exceptional pics!

ONE MONTH TO GO!

Goodbye My CIVIC

2011-05-10T20:36:00.000-10:00

In February I got into a little fender bender. Just a little one, but it completely totaled my car. A few weeks ago my insurance came to tow her away. :( I was so in love with my little car and it was perfect to me. Even if it leaked when it rained, had a window that didn't roll down, and was a little creaky. I miss you ol' CIVIC...

Kind of looks like a slug bug..

BOOO Volvo SUV

Goodbye my civic, goodbye my friend...

Mauli Ola Surf Day in Hawaii

2011-05-03T23:27:00.000-10:00

Mauli Ola is having a surf day this month in Waikiki! If you have cystic fibrosis and want to participate, go to their website and register! If you would like to help, you can donate and become and member to contribute to their cause!

To learn more go to www.mauliola.org.

Wedding Projects and a Day FULL of hard work!

2011-04-28T22:41:00.000-10:00

Today was a great day spent with a eggstra special friend. ;) We worked on a wedding project for a good 6 hours perhaps. It was intense, it was discouraging, and then... the light at the end of the tunnel. It was an awesome feeling to be done for the day. What were we working on?? You will just have to wait to see!

Hmm... spray paint... big box. SMILES...

Nat working on her frame and wishing it was a cereal box tiara.

Showing off the frame. Hello!

Yes, it is a few hours later and we are still painting! What fun...

Now for the light at the end of the tunnel part. Almost finished for the day.

Smoothing out our burlap and loving my new sticky burlap fingers. Why didn't I do this sooner? I love hours of sticky hairy fingers!

Thank you so much Nat for hanging in there and seeing the job through. I can't wait to do the fun part! Like tiaras, decorations, and such! Enjoy the photos and happy guessing!

Wedding Countdown

2011-04-25T23:06:00.000-10:00

We are getting married in less than 2 months! Holy cow... that went fast. We had a year to plan and it flew by. I have changed my mind on everything about 100 times, picked new things to love, new styles, colors, ideas... Thanks for sticking with me babe, I know our house is a wedding planning whirlwind, with pictures and ribbon and hot glue all over! It will all be worth it though and I can't wait to have a crazy good wedding filled with friends and family and fooooood!

These pictures are from a great weekend in Haleiwa with my family. Who doesn't love a stay-cation!?

Paper Mache Easter Eggs!

2011-04-21T09:39:00.000-10:00

Looking for something fun to make for Easter? (or anytime!) Check out this tutorial on egg piñatas at NOT MARTHA. I want to try this with brown, green, and red tissue paper for my bridal shower... MOM! Start saving tissue paper and balloons... :) They could easily pass for something woodlandy. I love it and can't wait to try this!

Great Strides Walk Honolulu 2011

2011-04-15T23:54:00.000-10:00

Join the Great Strides Walk for Cystic Fibrosis this year in Honolulu. May 28th from 8:30 until 12:30 in Kapiolani Park. Last year, everyone checked in and then we all walked around the park and there were photos set up with stories about CF patients. It is a great way to show your support!

To register, go to cff.org, search for Hawaii, and click register.

This years walk is about 2 miles around the park and could really use your support! Can't come out and walk? You can also donate at cff.org. Great Strides is the Cystic Fibrosis Foundations largest fundraiser, and anything you can donate is used to help find a cure.

To read more about Great Strides and Cystic Fibrosis, click here.

Bakeshop Goodies

2011-04-14T23:11:00.000-10:00

Black Sesame, Lilikoi, and Coconut Macaroons... YUM!

The cake I made today. Just a simple 8 inch but I think it turned out really cute. Plumeria and Hydrangea flowers make it a little more classy.

Bridesmaid Gift Ideas

2011-04-13T11:21:00.000-10:00

Here are some great ideas for gifts for your bridesmaids, or girlfriends. I love all of these and want them for myself, but sometimes you gotta give for the girls. :)

Love what you see? Click here to go to the treasury page when you can click on each item!

Natalie Dee ... you got me again!

2011-04-08T11:51:00.000-10:00

Sharks!

Who doesn't love lemon?

NUTS!

Hello CHICKEN! Natalie Dee...

My Days off MUST know about this...

.....

Love these? I do...

www.nataliedee.com

New Items Coming Soon to My Etsy Shop

2011-04-04T20:03:00.000-10:00

I have been busy making new jewelry for my shop and some of my favorite pieces are the ones with shells from Molokai! They are turning out awesome.

My SHOP

I have also been using some of my amazing finds from the last bead show I went to. Pink Quartz, Amethyst, and other super pretty briolettes. Keep checking back to see more items this month. www.barefootbeadshawaii.etsy.com

Handmade Cocktail Umbrella Tutorial

2011-03-30T00:05:00.000-10:00

Picture this: You order a vodka tonic, not much of a fru fru drink lover, and when it arrives you have a stunning cocktail umbrella casually placed in your drink. You have one thought : WOO HOO! Everyone loves cocktail umbrellas. The best part about these cocktail umbrellas is that they are handmade and can be completely personalized. Put them in your summer tea or weekly root beer float, celebrate with it in your champagne or in your protein shake. These babies just scream FUN!

Tutorial:

Supplies Needed:
Scrapbook Paper
A circle cutter or pattern for a 1.5inch or 2 inch circle
Glue Gun/Glue
Bamboo skewer sticks
Work space lined with newspaper
Cups to hold glued umbrellas while they dry

1. CUT YOUR CIRCLES OUT

2. CUT HALFWAY THRU EACH CIRCLE

3. POKE THE SKEWER INTO THE CENTER OF THE CIRCLE AND MAKE A SMALL HOLE

4. GLUE THE CIRCLE INTO THE SHAPE OF AN UMBRELLA AND THEN PLACE A SMALL DOT OF GLUE WHERE THE SKEWER WILL POKE THROUGH. BEFORE THE GLUE DRIES, SLIDE THE SKEWER INTO THE HOLE.

VOILA! Super easy and fun. These would be great for a baby shower, bridal shower, bachelorette party, everyday use, or wedding!

Kalaupapa, Molokai

2011-03-24T12:05:00.002-10:00

Beautiful Kalaupapa, Molokai. The home of a leprosy colony from 1856 to 1969, isolated, beautiful, and completely stuck in time. Although there are still about 80 residents living there. Read more about it and discover the history of leprosy in the Hawaiian Islands.

Location: North Molokai

Set at the base of Molokai's highest sea cliffs.

Isolated on all sides by ocean, there is only one way out by foot: up the cliff.

Otherwise you can fly or take a boat to get to and from Kalaupapa.

Only a short 5 minute walk from the Kalaupapa lookout, the phallic rock stands. Women come here to pray for fertility and make offerings.

Sakura Love

2011-03-22T12:32:00.000-10:00

With Spring in the air, flowers are on my mind...

East Molokai

2011-03-21T11:52:00.000-10:00

East Molokai is beautiful! One lane roads, winding tall grasses, shallow areas of reef, and Halawa Valley.

Tall grasses, winding roads, and amazing views of the coast.

Halawa Twin Bays

Down in the Bay

Toes in the Sand, Beer in my Hand

The delirium begins