Celebrate with Sequins!


 I love this time of year because I have an excuse to wear SEQUINS! {not that you ever really need an excuse...}  Here are some of my favorite sparklies for this holiday season.

 This year over Christmas my family and I will be on a Caribbean Cruise! It might not feel like Christmas on the cruise since there won't be snow... but I will probably end up looking like Rudolph after my skin burns since it hasn't seen the sun in two months.  I'll just have to celebrate like I normally do with sparkles, Christmas music and a red nose :)

xox,



Holiday Gift Guide - Men

Gift Ideas for Men


I always have the hardest time buying gifts for the guys in my life.  I have way more gents to buy for than ladies, that's for sure! One of my favorite sites {and stores, but we don't have one nearby} is Urban Outfitters.  They have such fun and unique gift ideas for men.  Most of these selections I found are from there. 

I only have two more weeks to order online gifts so I need to get.on.it! {we are doing Christmas a little early this year. Eeek!} 

 Where are your favorite places to get unique gifts??

xox,

DIY Animal Ornaments

Since Quinlan is a huge animal lover, I decided his Christmas tree this year would be animal themed!  I found a really fun DIY project for animal ornaments and decided to try it myself! Here's a step-by-step for you in case you want to tackle this project with me :)

Here's what you'll need:
**I bought everything from Michaels or Hobby Lobby with coupons**

-Toob Figures  
*I used the Wild Toob but you could use any of the Toobs based on the theme of your tree!
 -Screw Eyes  
*May need a drill if you can't screw the screw eyes in
-Acrylic Paint
-Paintbrush
-Jute String
-And if you're messy like me you may need gloves, painting clothes, newspaper and washcloth.

Here's how to do it:

         Prime the animals and let dry.               Drill small hole for screw eyes.
Hand screw the screw eyes in the center of the animal.

Paint the animals with acrylic paint.  Let paint dry.
 Cut pieces of jute and tie through screw eyes.
SO EASY!!

Here's how to enjoy:

Super cute and so easy!

xox,

BF Recap

So, I ended up going to a few stores today to check out the deals that Black Friday has to offer.  I think they should call this day Impulse Friday because I have never bought so many things that I just.don't.need.  It's as if we all of a sudden NEED a pair of night vision goggles because they are only $50 for the next 5 hours!

But among the display bins of old DVDs there are also really great gift ideas and even better discounts.  Below are some items that I bought for myself as well as some gifts.  



I'm most excited for a new camera {merry Christmas family!}. I got a great deal on the Canon Rebel T3i and am SO excited to use it.  Anyone else have this camera? If you have any tips on how to use it {or lenses to buy}... send them my way ;)  

Have a great weekend and happy Impulse Friday! 
{I really think it's going to catch on}

xox,

Giving Thanks & Black Friday

I hope everyone had a great thanksgiving! I love this time of year where we get to reflect on everything we have to be thankful for.  I just hope that this thankfulness carries on past this season and throughout the year!

Now that it's officially Black Friday here are some deals that I can't wait to peruse. This year I decided to stick near my computer instead of brave the crowds at the stores.  Where will you be shopping today? Living room or brick and mortar?


Get it Girl!


Favorite Deals:
Gap: 20% off your entire purchase (code: GAPGIFT)

J.Crew:  25% off your entire purchase (code: COLOR 25)

Shopbop: 35% purchase (code: BIGEVENT12)

Madewell:  25% off and Free Shipping (code: TREAT)

Bloomingdales: Up to 50% off and $25 off every $200

Holiday Gift Guide - Hostess

1. Calendar Dish Towels 2. Twig Spreaders 3. Robot Tea Infuser 4. Coffee Scoop 
5. Birch Candlesticks 6. Olive Oil & Balsamic Vinegar Set 7. Mortar and Pestle 8. Glitter Servers

I know it may seem early to everyone but I am already in the Christmas spirit and I will be doing A LOT of Christmas shopping in the next few weeks.  So, each week I will be posting this year's Holiday Gift Guide for all of the special people in your life!  

I thought I would post the Gift Guide for hostesses today in case you need a small gift idea for your Thanksgiving host {please tell me other people procrastinate like I do...}.  I couldn't think of a better way to say "Thanks!" for the generosity of opening up your home to family and friends.

Also, don't forget to sign up for the cowl infinity scarf giveaway! Today is the last day!!

xox,

Linking up with:

Still Wearing Polka Dots

Similar Items: Polka Dot Shirt | Jacket | Jeans | Heels | Bracelet

In case you were wondering, I am still obsessed with polka dots.  The trend seems to be sticking around {PTL!} so I am taking full advantage of it.  

Annnd I'm still loving Sole Society {go figure!} When I saw these shoes on their site I immediately thought of these beauties that I missed out on from Zara. 

I love when you find look-a-likes for your favorite pieces!

pssst! Don't forget to sign up for the infinity scarf giveaway!

xox,

Linking up with: 
stillbeingmollyWatchOutForTheWoestmans

Giveaway >> Cowl Infinity Scarf

In the spirit of thankfulness that has overcome me {and probably all of you as well} this month, I wanted to say a big THANKS to all of you readers that have been so supportive of this little blog.  I am seriously inspired every day by the comments and support that is given. 

 To show my gratefulness, I am giving away an awesome cowl infinity scarf from H&M.  It is SO warm and comfy and a perfect addition to your winter wardrobe! 


Enter via the giveaway tool below! Good Luck!

Hats {or scarves :)} off to you, Readers :)

xox,



a Rafflecopter giveaway

Thanksgiving :: Centerpieces


source: 1 :: 2 :: 3 
 
Here are some ideas for your Thanksgiving table decorations.  I love a good centerpiece {when you're in the foodservice industry you have to love centerpieces!}. I think I'm leaning towards the tree branch with notes of thankfulness.  It might not be the most classy centerpiece but what a great way to show what you are thankful for!  I am even thinking I could spice it up and hang the branch and notes from the ceiling... too much??? Never! 

source

xox,



FFL - J.Crew & Forever 21


Floral Scarf - JC :: F21   Wool Blazer - JC :: F21
Sequin Tank - JC ::  F21   Suede Pump - JC :: F21
Black & White Blazer - JC :: F21   Pink Puffer Vest - JC :: F21
Pink Trench - JC :: F21   Bow Skirt - JC :: F21

Wow, do I have some awesome Finds For Less for you guys.  Forever 21 has been pulling out all the stops lately with J.Crew look-alikes.  If you want some fun pieces but don't want to break the bank, then F21 is your store!  What other look -alikes and FFL have you been seeing lately??

xox,

Meet Q

I've had my son, Quinlan, on this blog a few times already but how rude of me to not fully introduce the little man!

Quinlan James is my one & only baby boy who has brought such joy to me {and hubby's!} life. He was born 1.5 years ago on a wonderful day in May.
  
He now loves animals {especially horses & puppies}, tractors {john deere of course}, eating anything {but bananas are his fav!} and sleeping {PTL!}.  
He also loves fashion {though he may not know that yet ;)}.  I have evidence below that will prove I'm always right. 

Quinlan, say "Hi"!

xox,




Back Dated

Similar Items:  Top  ::  Jacket  ::  Ponte Pant  ::  Shoes

These pictures are from a few weeks ago when an Indian Summer graced us with it's presence.  Confused like the weather, I wasn't sure what to wear when it's 30 degrees in the morning and 70 degrees in the afternoon.  Well, that time is behind us now so I guess I will use these pictures as inspiration for next year...

xox,


Monday Blues

Similar Items:  Hat :: Cardigan :: Chambray :: Jeans :: Boots
 
Monday, you just keep showing up don't you?  Week after week, the Monday blues keep reminding me that the weekend is over. And time just seems to be flying by!  When I left the house this morning, 22 degrees of pure winter  welcomed {more like slapped} me.  Where did Fall go!? I guess this will be the last time I can pose awkwardly in my neighbor's yard without a coat {because let's be honest, I will still pose awkwardly in his yard... just not without a coat}.

xox,

And they get me again...

Right now Gap is having a great sale with 30% off your purchase {code: gapfriends}.  They get me every time with these sales!  Are you being tempted with this great sale?!  I am. 

You win, Gap. You win.

xox,



LOVE

Similar Items: Sweater :: Leggings :: Booties :: Necklace :: Glasses
 
When I saw this sweater at Forever 21 I knew I would LOVE it. I mean, who wouldn't crave a loose and comfy sweater with a hint of neon??  This isn't really my typical style with faux-leather leggings and messy hair... but I like how easy it is!  As usual, I can't wait to dress up this sweater with a pencil skirt the way Rachel from Pink Peonies did! 

xox,



Thanksgiving :: Guest Favors

I am going to be hosting a small get together at my house for Thanksgiving this year and I can't wait to decorate and prepare a fun feast!  Below are some ideas that I found for a small gift favors for my guests.  I thought I would share with you all in case you are hosting your own Thanksgiving as well!



Address Book
The idea of an address book as a favor is so clever! Especially if you have any guests that you haven't seen in awhile.  And what a perfect way to get all of your address organized for your Christmas card!
  
Front Cover | Address Pages | Back Cover
Encourage the budding friendship between your party guests with these stylish address book favors that can be used to collect contact information.  After you trim the clip art to size, assemble the pages, fold and staple twice along the crease.
 Source: Martha Stewart



Individual Pie Box
This is my favorite favor idea and I can't believe I have never seen it before!  What a fun way to send your guests home with a fresh piece of pie {and to get rid of the abundance of leftovers}!

 Pie Box Template
Photocopy template at 400 percent; trace onto card stock. Cut out the image with scallop scissors along scalloped edges and regular scissors on solid lines. With a straightedge and a bone folder, score paper along dotted lines. Fold along scored lines, and secure tabs with double-sided tape. Line box with parchment paper, place a slice inside, and tie on a tag.
                   Source: Martha Stewart


                                                                                       Blessings Mix
My Mom used to make this Blessings Mix when we were younger.  I love keeping the traditions of my childhood and making them traditions in my adult home.

Template
Trim the template to fit the size of the cellophane bag you are using.  Fold the bag topper in half and punch two holes on your topper. Adhere 'Blessings Mix' poem to the cellophane bag.  Fill cellophane bag with bugles, pretzels, candy corn, peanuts and orange slices.  Remember to allow enough room to be able to fold over the top of your cellophane bag. Fold over the top of your cellophane bag 2-3 small turns.  Attach bag topper to the cellophane bag by taking your hole puncher and punching through the previous punched holes on the topper bag to go through the cellophane. {Optional: Add grommets or eyelets}.  Thread raffia, twine or ribbon through the punched holes and tie. 
Source: Anders Ruff 
                                            

M&M Turkey
These turkey favors are SO cute and would be perfect for a kids table!  Or even as a craft to distract the kiddos while dinner is being prepped.  We made these when when I was young and they are super fun!

Make the turkey head with brown, red and orange pipe cleaners {see tutorial}.  Add googly eyes with adhesive.  Make the turkey feet with yellow pipe cleaners {see tutorial}.  Cut netting to size, fill with M&Ms, and close with rubber band.  Trim netting {leave enough for the turkey feathers}, stick head and feet into the netting. 
Source: The Party Animal

I'd love to see your ideas for Thanksgiving favors! Leave a link below!
 
Pssst!  If you read EBO daily please follow me on GFC!

xox,



Wishlist Wednesday


These are some items that have been sitting in my shopping carts for way too long!  Still loving them...

xox,



Brights

 Sweater : J.Crew Factory | Shirt : JCPenney | Jeans : Gap | Shoes : J.Crew 

I just can't help but wear all of my favorite bright colors from summer into the fall months.  Thankfully, the bright colors and color-blocking trends did not fade with the warm weather.  Just add my coat and scarf to this and I'm ready for winter!

xox,