Jac o' lyn Murphy

Hail to the Beef...Happy Presidents' Weekend

2012-02-17T05:30:00.000-08:00

I asked my kids to pick a President,

but I did not tell them why.

My son chose

George W. Bush

so this weekend we will be chowing down on...

an ode to his Texas roots...Yee Haw!

My daughter selected

Barack Obama so...

we will be longing for his childhood home of Hawaii...

and you can't have Presidential Burgers without beans, right?

Have a wonderful long weekend...

also on Shabby Nest, Tidy Mom, Design Dazzle

Get your Game On!

2012-02-16T05:30:00.002-08:00

The Video Game Party Bus is on the way

to Ben and Ryan's 10th Birthday.

The thirsty gamers will be guzzling

a variety of neon video game waters...

After playing until their hearts content,

it will be our "Call of Duty" to try to "console" the boys

by sending them off with...

Wii controller candy party favors...

"Game Over" until next year!

The Water Bottle Labels are now available at my Etsy Store...

my first item...finally!

also on Just a Little Creativity, Tidy Mom, Shabby Nest, Sassy Sites, 504 Main, Design Dazzle

Spicing up the Valentines

2012-02-15T05:35:00.000-08:00

In true Murphy fashion,

the plans for school Valentines changed a little...

My son is a budding chef and infamous around town for the hot sauce he makes.

He decided this weekend that he wanted to make the sauce and bottle it

for his ENTIRE class for Valentine's Day.

Our time and my energy was limited so we did these...

and some HOT teachers received...

and also in true Murphy style,

we spelled spicy wrong on the first batch!

(don't tell my mother, a former English teacher)

(Luckily he has 2 classes/sets of teachers to give Valentines,
so his Hacky Sacks and Terrariums were put to good use)
Phew, now on to the next holiday!

also on Tidy Mom, 504 Main

Toasting Valentine's Day

2012-02-14T05:27:00.000-08:00

A HEART-y

breakfast to start the day...

My kids are waking up to

Cocoa-filled cups, heart toast and marshmallows...

The nonpareils hearts were so easy and fun to make...

Jumbo Marshmallow

heart stencil made from paper punch + a few drops of honey...

sprinkle nonparelis...

then "smoosh" down a little with your finger...

lift up stencil and don't be afraid when it looks like this...

I just shaped them a little with my non-honey covered finger...

The toast was a cinch too

with the "side of the cup cookie cutters" I found here!

Cheers to a fun filled day!

also on Today's Creative, Homework, 504 Main, Design Dazzle

Crocodile Hearts for Sweetheart Shoppers...

2012-02-13T05:35:00.001-08:00

A few of the top GEMS

that buy fabulous shoes, bags and accessories at Kicks,

received something special for Valentine's Day...

A Red Crocodile Heart Thank You,
on a bed of elegant "pearl" gumballs...

and some

SWEETHEARTS,

received a Green Crocodile Valentine

wrapped with Conversation Hearts...

they also included
"Kicks Bucks" to buy themselves something special!

I just couldn't resist a few
treats for everyone at the counter too...

also on Skip to my Lou, Today's Creative, Tidy Mom, Shabby Nest

Happy Birthday Mr. President!

2012-02-10T05:40:00.001-08:00

We honored George over the 4th of July

so I thought it would be fun to help Abe celebrate his big day, February 12 ...

We will be partying this weekend

with a little "lemon-ABE", in honor of his nickname...

a tribute to his famous Gettysburg Address...

an ode to the tales about him living in a log cabin...

and his years in The White House...

Lastly, a Birthday Cake on a bed of pennies...
(Lincoln side up!)

commemorated with a few of my favorite Lincoln quotes...

such a wise man,

this one is the best...

Happy Birthday Abe and

to my favorite President's Day Baby Harrison Clay Hoover :)

also on Tidy Mom, Design Dazzle, Tatertots and Jello, Be Different, Act Normal, I Heart naptime, CRAFT, Skip to my Lou, Today's Creative, Homework, 504 Main

Stick a Fork "On" It...these Business Cards are Done!

2012-02-09T05:33:00.001-08:00

I stuck a fork ON it...

for a new business cooking in town!

Lora is the most gracious hostess and the best cook around.

She is the kind of person that makes and drops off dinner to her elderly neighbors constantly

and has that culinary ease that we all aspire to have.

Well, now we don't have to go into our kitchens at all...

She is preparing and delivering

hot, homemade, delicious dinners.

Her business cards reflect her

elegant style and homemade wholesomeness.

Her GENIUS idea of having a sample menu on the back just shows it is

"not your husband's takeout".

Since it is such a gift to the neighborhood that she has begun this endeavor

I wrapped her business cards in a mini colander...

and let her know how

GRATE her business is going to be!

also on My Repurposed Life, Tidy Mom, Shabby Nest, Be Different Act Normal, Tatertots and jello, I heart naptime, CRAFT, SKip to my Lou, Today's Creative

Silly Putty Valentines

2012-02-08T05:40:00.000-08:00

Just a silly little gift that I am getting ready for my kids...

I had forgotten how much fun it is to have putty in your hands!

also on My Repurposed Life, Tidy Mom, Shabby Nest, Design Dazzle, I heart naptime, CRAFT, Today's Creative

Love Birds...

2012-02-07T05:38:00.000-08:00

Whoooo do you love?

How about a cage-full of owl charm gift enclosures,
for that special someone, you give a

HOOT about?...

Riding on the Freeway of Love!

2012-02-06T05:51:00.000-08:00

John will be telling all his kindergarten pals,

"Baby you can drive my car..."

or actually they can drive their own cars after they get these...

(the cars are just attached with a few glue dots on the wheels,

worked like a dream...then placed in cellophane bags)

Rev up your engines...

it is almost Valentine's Day!

also on Skip to my Lou, Today's Creative, Sassy Sites, Just a little Creativity, My Repurposed Life, Tidy Mom, Shabby Nest, Design Dazzle, Be Different Act Normal, Tatertots and Jello, CRAFT

Gnome Domes and Cupid's Garden

2012-02-03T05:39:00.001-08:00

We have used tiny Gnomes for Valentines in the past,

but this year we are giving them in their own terrarium...

teachers, friends and family will know that there is

Gnome-one like them!

and while we were at it,

we whipped up a few tiny Cupid's Gardens...

It's Valentine's Day...

Plant one on them!

also on Shabby Nest, Tidy Mom, Design Dazzle, Itsy Bitsy Paper, TT&J, Under the Table and Dreaming, Skip to my Lou, Today's Creative, Sassy Sites, Just a little Creativity, Homework, My Repurposed Life, Dear Lillie

"Mugs" and Roses...

2012-02-02T05:48:00.000-08:00

These beautiful heart shaped tea cups were the inspiration for

one of our teacher Valentines gifts...

Filled with Tea Roses,

they are the perfect thing to brighten up her desk...

We also made heart sugar cubes,

(directions here)

to add a little more sweetness to her next cup of tea...

Maybe it should say,

"Thank you for taking care of that

SWEET CHILD OF MINE"!

(sorry with the Mugs and Roses/Guns and Roses reference I just couldn't resist)

also on Paisley Jade, Sassy Sites, My Repurposed Life, Shabby Nest, Tidy Mom, TT&J, Under the Table and Dreaming, Skip to my Lou, Today's Creative, Sassy Sites, Homework

What color is your Valentine?

2012-02-01T05:34:00.000-08:00

Three pretty little boxes are on their way to Texas...

and two sweet little girls are giving them to their favorite teachers

They are filled with rings

to put them all in a good MOOD...

I am wishing them all Dark Blue hearts!

also on 733, Tidy Mom, Today's Creative

Hit your Valentines Out of the Park!

2012-01-31T05:29:00.000-08:00

a bucket of "love-ly" baseballs...

wrapped up before they are hit over the fence...

and ready to pitch off to the class on Valentine's Day...

Don't you LOVE baseball?

also on Today's Creative, Sassy Sites, My Repurposed Life, Shabby Nest, Design Dazzle, Itsy Bitsy Paper, TT&J, SKip to my Lou

Hacky Sacky for Jacky...his Valentines

2012-01-30T05:48:00.000-08:00

Valentines for a 5th grade boy are a challenge.

It is the last year of Elementary School and

probably the last year of giving them to your classmates...

(and the last year he will tolerate me calling him Jacky)

They definitely can't be "lame" or "mushy".

We finally decided on what my son is going to hand out...

fun for boys and girls...

and even mom can try to relive her youth with the extras...

also on Skip to my Lou, Today's Creative, Sassy Sites, Shabby nest, Tidy Mom, Design Dazzle, TT&J

Lovin' Spoonfuls...

2012-01-27T05:38:00.000-08:00

All it takes...

to let someone know...

how sweet they are...

is a Spoonful of Sugar!

also on Nest of Posies, Tatertots and Jello, Be Different Act Normal, Skip to my Lou, Under the Table and Dreaming, Today's Creative, Homework, 733

Birthday Cheesecake!

2012-01-26T05:35:00.000-08:00

Not only did we cheer on the 49ers last weekend,

but it was also my husband's birthday.

For his party I decided to

put all my "fabulous" baking skills together and make him a cheesecake!

it was so hard finding 3 round cheeses to fit together,

but I managed to do it :)

(the idea came from here via Pinterest)

My friend Maureen (the best baker I know),

was gracious enough to bake him a real birthday cake.
Decadent and Delicious to say the least...

and her son made an award winning birthday card...

"you are almost 49 like the 49ers"

simply GENIUS!

also on My Repurposed Life, Shabby Nest, Tidy Mom, Tatertots and jello, Be Different Act Normal, Under the Table and Dreaming, Today's Creative

Dragon Dim Sum?...Chinese New Year Hostess Gift

2012-01-25T05:43:00.000-08:00

The Hansens will be saying,

"Gung Hay Fat Choy"

in style.

They are bringing this hostess gift to the Chinese New Year Party...

A bamboo steamer basket topped with a

"Year of the Dragon" charm...

and filled with gold cherry blossom notecards...

享受党

Enjoy the Party!

also on Somewhat Simple, My Repurposed Life, Shabby Nest, Tidy Mom Tatertots and jello, Be different Act normal, Skip to my lou, Today's Creative

I DIG Valentine's Day

2012-01-24T05:43:00.000-08:00

The perfect gift for anyone you are "digging" this Valentine's Day.

a simple charm...

attached to gift enclosure cards...

wrapped with envelopes and

tucked in a terra cotta pot...

then a fun sentiment and pen attached...

also on Today's Creative, Homework, Clean and Scentsible, Somewhat Simple, My Repurposed Life, Shabby Nest, Tidy Mom, Tatertots and Jello, Under the Table and Dreaming

What we ate while we watched...the end of a great season

2012-01-23T05:46:00.000-08:00

Well, it was a heartbreaking loss in overtime for San Francisco but

what an exciting and fun season it was!

We saluted the team and city as we watched the game.

The kids enjoyed food celebrating our favorite coaches...

The adults went to Fisherman's Wharf...

mini sourdough bowls with clam chowder shooters

and fresh cracked crab...

a salad for a SF Legend...

Then we finished it off with

a San Francisco dessert and candy bar...

Victorian Houses filled with red and gold treats...

and some San Francisco Hearts that were "left" behind...

(filled with 49er red in the middle)

It's It ice cream sandwiches,

(a staple at any SF sporting event)

and we were so honored that Joe Montana bobbled by...

We can't wait to see what is in store for next year,

Go Niners!

also on Today's Creative, Chef in Training, Clean and Scentsible, Somewhat simple, My Repurposed Life, Shabby nest, Tidy Mom, Tatertots and Jello, Be Different Act Normal, Under the Table and Dreaming

Getting Ready...Playoff Prep!

2012-01-21T16:58:00.000-08:00

Steve Young and the boys are ready for tomorrow...

Go Niners!

Bugging Out...Love Bugs that is

2012-01-20T05:37:00.000-08:00

Hopefully these Valentine Bugs

will not get exterminated!

a "charming" Love Bug card...

and for that Love Bug that like a little bling...

packaged with a fabulous pen and tucked in a felt box,
ready for your little ladybug to receive.

also on Be Different Act Normal, I heart naptime, Skip to my Lou, Today's Creative

Rocking Crocs for Valentine's Day...

2012-01-19T05:31:00.000-08:00

Emily's preschool friends will be

kicking up their heels when they get her Valentines...

Mini Croc keychains with a sweet message...

My Repurposed Life, Sassy Sites, Shabby Nest, Tidy Mom, Be Different Act normal, Tatertots and Jello, I heart naptime, Skip to my Lou, Today's Creative, Somewhat Simple, Nest of Posies

Love is in the Air...

2012-01-18T05:40:00.000-08:00

One way to let someone know how you feel...

and a gift for that special teacher...

Stay cool this Valentine's Day!

also on Shabby nest, Skip to my Lou, TOday's Creative, Homework

the Gloves are off...

2012-01-17T05:35:00.000-08:00

Hilary's Warm and Fuzzy Valentine's Gifts

for her Brownie Troop

and some Heart FELT

stationery sets for my nieces...

with some red hot gloves...

something to warm their hands,

to match their warm hearts.

I have got to get these in mail right away,

you know how cold it gets in San Diego...

Also on Today's Creative, My Repurposed Life, Shabby Nest, Tidy Mom, Be Different Act Normal, Tatertots and jello, I heart naptime, Skip to my Lou

Valentine's Berries

2012-01-16T05:39:00.001-08:00

a little something that is good for your

heart...

with a Valentine to match...

also on Skip to my Lou, Todays Creative, homework, My Repurposed Life, Sassy Sites, Shabby Nest, Tidy Mom, Be Different Act Normal, Tatertots and Jello, I heart naptime, Chef in Training, Dear Lillie

Fingers Crossed 49 times!

2012-01-14T05:37:00.000-08:00

It is a big day in the

City by the Bay!

some treats for the kids while watching the game...

this "old" 49er fan will have her fingers crossed!

Love me "Dew"

2012-01-13T05:39:00.000-08:00

2 things we are going to

DO for Valentine's Day...

Mountain Dew lip gloss for some BFFs...

and a

Heart-y Honeydew "Cake" for breakfast...

Nothing like the Beatles and Bryan Adams duringValentine's Day...

also on Michelle Paige, Tidy Mom, tatertots and jello, Be Different Act Normal, Today's Creative

I had to say I Love You in a song...

2012-01-12T05:44:00.000-08:00

For the 'tween niece...

for the toddler nephew...

for the music teacher...

also on Shabby Nest, Michelle Paige, Tatertots and Jello, Be Different Act Normal, Todays Creative

I'm in the MOOD for love... a few ways to RING in Valentine's Day...

2012-01-11T05:45:00.000-08:00

Who doesn't LOVE a mood ring?

Especially around Valentine's Day...

and in an attempt to be "hip and cool",

this one is going to my middle school daughter...

(I am sure anyone with a 7th grade girl can relate to "the moods")

Finally, in honor of Beyonce and her new baby,

this one is inspired by one of her songs...

Have a "Hip Hop" and "Crazy in Love" Valentine's Day!

also on Southern Lovely, 733, Someday Crafts, Shabby Nest, Tatertots and Jello, Todays Creative

For Valentine's Day...all is fair in Love and War...

2012-01-10T05:38:00.001-08:00

ATTENTION!

Harrison is not

camouflaging his feelings this Valentine's Day.

The troops are ready to salute his classmates...

on a side note...my 12 year old daughter says that I should not use such,
"Old Lady" songs...
Her suggestion is, "I would Catch a Grenade for you" by Bruno Mars
(darn kids, I hate it when they are right!)

also on Today's Creative, Homework, A to Zebra Celebrations, Clean and Scentsible, Uncommon Goods, Southern Lovely, Someday Crafts, 733, My Repurposed Life, Sassy Sites, Shabby Nest, Design Dazzle, Michelle Paige. Tidy Mom, Tatertots and Jello, Be different act normal, Skip to my Lou, Nest of Posies, Just a little Creativity, Dear Lillie

Does any one know "a little old place where we can get together"?

2012-01-09T05:36:00.001-08:00

Boogie on over to

The mini Love Shack Valentine Buffet...

Heart Shaped Junior Mints and Sweethearts

will get everybody

"Moving and Grooving"

this Valentine's Day

Will you B-52 mine?

also on Skip to my Lou, Bird's Party, Today's Creative, Homework, A to Zebra Celebrations, Clean and Scentsible, Uncommon Goods, 733, Someday Crafts, French Country Cottage, My Repurposed Life, Sassy Sites, Shabby Nest, Design Dazzle, Tidy Mom, Tatertots and Jello, Be Different Act Normal, Dear Lillie

Are you ready for some...CRAB? (and football)

2012-01-06T05:31:00.000-08:00

It is that time of year again...

the Annual Crab-feast,

with dear friends, at our Kitchen Counter

(see here and here)

We were all too busy during the holidays,
so for the first time it will be a January event that conveniently coincides with

the San Francisco 49ers Playoff Game!

Let's get Crackin'!

also on Shabby Nest, Tidy Mom, One Artsy Momma, Tatertots and jello, Be Different Act Normal, I heart Naptime, Skip to my Lou, Today's Creative

Smile this Valentine's Day...

2012-01-05T05:31:00.000-08:00

I am sure my children don't have a clue who

James Taylor and Barry Manilow are,

but hopefully these Valentine's Gifts will get them to

GRIN...

also on Shabby Nest, Fingerprints on the Fridge, Design Dazzle, Tatertots and Jello, Be Different Act Normal, I heart Naptime, Skip to my Lou, Today's Creative

All you need is...

2012-01-04T05:22:00.000-08:00

Simple and Sweet Sentiment...

a tiny card with a big message...

also on 733, Shabby Nest, Be Different Act Normal

A Cheesy Valentine?

2012-01-03T05:40:00.000-08:00

Hot out of the "oven",

a fresh batch of CHEESY Valentines,

to start off the new year...

oh, and we deliver :)

also on Today's Creative, Somewhat Simple, Shabby Nest, Fingerprints on the Fridge, Design Dazzle, Tidy Mom, Tatertots and Jello, Be Different Act Normal, I heart Naptime

"Charming" Alice in Wonderland Thank You Notes

2012-01-02T05:30:00.000-08:00

After her Birthday Tea Party,

"Alice" will be sitting down with a cup of tea to write her thank you notes.

These have a teapot charm to show her gratitude in style.

also on Skip to my Lou, Today's Creative, Homework, Somewhat Simple, Shabby Nest

Snap, Crackle and Poppin' into 2012...

2011-12-30T09:40:00.000-08:00

A little

"Snap, Crackle and Pop" surprise,
for the kids to welcome in New Year's morning...

hopefully they will let us sleep in...

Happy 2012!

also on Today's Creative

A TIME and A PLACE...New Year's Eve Placecards

2011-12-29T05:26:00.000-08:00

It is TIME to get ready for a little

New Year's Eve fun...

mini clock placecards for the dinner table...

with a quote inside,

to enjoy over a glass of champagne and San Francisco Crab

also on Tidy Mom, Today's Creative and Shabby Nest

It is going to be a Bloody Good Year!

2011-12-27T05:35:00.000-08:00

After having these on Christmas Morning...

I've decided to give these to our guests on New Year's Eve...

and a copy of the recipe,

that can also be found here

(thank you Martha!)

Pru has confirmed that,
2012 is smelling like a great year...

also on Homework, Today's Creative blog. Tidy Mom, Shabby Nest, Chef n Training

Dog and Pony Show- Stationery

2011-12-26T05:49:00.000-08:00

I just heard on the news that in this grim economy,

one of the things people do not skimp on are their pets.

My recent stationery orders are definitely supporting that fact!

Stationery for

The Dog...

Stationery for

The "Very Preppy" Dog Lover

(and some treats for her best friend)...

and stationery for

The Little Girl That Just Got a New Pony...

I wish you a Merry Christmas!

2011-12-24T05:36:00.000-08:00

I wish you all a Merry Christmas,

thank you so much for reading my little blog!

I hope you are able to

have fun and get silly...

also on Homework, Today's Creative

Kids' Christmas Drinks...

2011-12-23T05:36:00.000-08:00

We are in charge of the kids' drinks for Christmas Eve.

At dinner a few nights ago,

my children told me all about a very "educational" cartoon (Fairly Odd Parents) they saw

where the Christmas Party had ice from the North Pole.

The light bulb went off and we decided to theme our drink table around that.

We tested it all out yesterday...

Reindeer Waters...

they either have the flashing Rudolf Noses, that I can't get enough of,
or

Rudolf Suckers "stuck" on top

and

Coca Cola with "North Pole" Straws...

festive, simple and inexpensive...

Cheers!

Our Teacher Christmas Gift is taking FLIGHT...

2011-12-22T05:40:00.000-08:00

Our Christmas gift to the teacher who loves to travel

and loves to teach about the world.

With her Southwest gift card tied to a mini globe...

the sky is the limit!

also on Today's Creative

Chili Birthday Wishes!

2011-12-21T05:43:00.000-08:00

It is my father's Birthday today.

We won't see him until Thursday,

so tonight we are having some of the food that remind us of him.

Chili (he makes the best!),

Corn Bread Muffins (cooked well done)

and a Beer (always poured into a frosty mug).

I love these candle holders that are also forks...

so fun and you can eat with it!

Happy Birthday Bob!

Christmas "Fishes"

2011-12-20T05:12:00.000-08:00

We all have them.

The silly relative that teaches your toddlers songs like,

"I see London, I see France..."
and is so generous to
always give that year's IN gift,
that the kids love but purposely annoys the parents just a little.
(Bratz Dolls and Talking Elmo anyone?)

Well...
Uncle Tom now has his own bundle of joy and
we had to get the PERFECT gift for his angelic 18 month old...

His first pet!

2 Guppies in a Hip Fish Hotel were delivered this weekend,

along with some stationery (of course)
and all the fish supplies...

I have to say it was quite a hit...

Thank God, because his cousin endured 40 minutes of torture
holding the fish bowl on the way to the city.

Just remember,

Payback's a FISH :)

also on Today's Creative

Alice in WINTERLAND

2011-12-19T05:27:00.000-08:00

It is so nice to take a break from all the holiday madness

and work on birthday party invitations...

No one will want to be late...

for Charlotte's 8th Birthday Party Tea in Wonderland.

The Cheshire Cat is sure to be smiling over San Francisco :)

also on Today's Creative

What a bunch of characters...Reindeer treats for the class

2011-12-16T05:37:00.000-08:00

I saw a simple and sweet holiday treat on Pinterest

and my son and I decided we would recreate it for a school holiday party.

It could not have been easier,

mini donuts, tubes of frosting in white and black, cherry sour candies and pretzels.

(Just for fun we threw in a few jingle bells)

As we were making them,

we laughed at how each one seemed to have a different personality...

This one was saying,

"what are you looking at?".

"I am scared, don't eat me"...

"I am a little dazed and confused after being in a snowball fight"...

Being the good "kiss ups" that we are,

we made Jumbo Reindeer and put them in a sleigh for the teacher...
(these with gum ball noses)

Just remember:

Tray of Treats + Friendly Grin = Lady Magnet!

also on Design Dazzle, Tatertots and Jello, Be Different Act Normal, I heart naptime, Today's Creative

Christmas Berries...

2011-12-15T05:22:00.000-08:00

We are dropping these off to a few friends and family

in the days ahead...

I just couldn't resist these ceramic berry cartons at Anthropologie

or the gorgeous raspberries from the Farmer's Market!

Berry Christmas :)

also on Shabby Nest, Tidy Mom, Design Dazzle, Tatertots and jello, Be Different Act Normal, I heart naptime, Today's Creative

What we ROLLED in with...Gingerbread Party Hostess Gift

2011-12-14T05:35:00.000-08:00

The holidays would not be the same without

our friends'

Gingerbread House Decorating Party

To let them know how much we like to be

AROUND,

we brought them a cheerful new rolling pin

and a set of recipe cards...

The hostess is an avid entertainer

I can't wait to see what she ROLLS OUT next.

also on Southern Lovely, Shabby Nest, Tidy Mom, Tatertots and Jello, Today's Creative

Old English Sheep Dog Christmas Card

2011-12-13T05:28:00.000-08:00

I am sure,

the "Shepherds will quake" at this site...

a herd of Old English Sheep Dog cards
are headed to my parents...

Prudence will be waiting for Christmas kisses

under the Mistletoe!

(and this year I took FULL photographic credit on the back of the card,

it is not easy to get this sweet looking dog to pose!)

Oh Sugar! Secrets of the Scrub

2011-12-12T05:26:00.000-08:00

I have be so

SWEETLY surprised

with the response to the

Glamorous Girls' Holiday Party!

I wanted to share what we experimented with this weekend...

My daughter wanted to "jazz" up the colors.

We tried to match the eye-popping hues from
the Jelly Belly Candy Canes...

and we printed up the recipe, so her friends can make it at home...

(and we actually added more peppermint extract)

We experimented with a few different food coloring options and

we had the most success with these...

After all of the neon,
I made a more civilized, soothing version for my friends...

a simple scrub,

sans the coloring and fragrance.

With all these exfoliants,
this year's Christmas gifts should be
SMOOTH sailing!

also on Skip to my Lou, Today's Creative, Homework, Southern Lovely, 733, Shabby Nest, Tidy Mom, Design Dazzle, Tatertots and jello, Be Different Act Normal, I heart naptime

Glamorous Girls' Get Together...Holiday Style

2011-12-09T05:27:00.000-08:00

A few fun friends are getting together for

pampering before they are

Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree at

the Middle School Holiday Dance.

Monogrammed Compact Invitations (with each girl's initial)

tied to a peppermint tree lollipop were hand delivered...

They are going to make

some sumptuous Sugar Scrub inspired by this...

Try their "hand" at some jaw dropping nail ideas found on Pinterest...

Source: the36thavenue.com via Alexis on Pinterest

Source: grosgrainfabulous.blogspot.com via Alexis on Pinterest

and take home

"Holiday Ice Cream" favors...

which are actually
Bath Bombs they can use to "Chill Out" at home...

Let's hope that,
"everyone will be dancing merrily,
in a new old fashion way"!

also on Just a Girl, Tidy Mom, Design Dazzle, Tatertots and jello, Be Different Act Normal, Skip to my Lou, Today's Creative

Light Up your Holiday Thank You Notes...

2011-12-08T05:40:00.000-08:00

I am shedding some

LIGHT

on my glittered Christmas Tree Stationery...

Jumbo Christmas Light Pens...
(tap them and they blink!)

May your notes be

MERRY and BRIGHT!

also on Shabby Nest, Just a Girl

What to BUY for the GUY Teacher...

2011-12-07T05:20:00.000-08:00

For the first time, my daughter has 3 male teachers,

so holiday gifts are a little different for us this year.

Ceramic Re-useable Coffee Cups...

in MANLY stripes, tweed and plaid...

paired with coordinating, personalized notecards...

topped with a "teachers' lounge ready" instant coffee,

then wrapped and ready for school...

Bottoms Up Boys!

also on Shabby Nest, Just a Girl, Tidy Mom, Tatertots and Jello, Be Different Act Normal,Skip to my lou, Today's Creative

Touchdown Tags

2011-12-06T05:20:00.000-08:00

As a self-proclaimed "celebrity junkie",

I was thrilled to get a recent order...

Everyone in the Bay Area is so proud of what

the 49ers have accomplished this season and
I decided to "throw" in some tags in the team colors...

Thanks Coach, for making football so much fun to watch again!
(and to our favorite coach's family, that lives in the neighborhood, who also got a set)

also on Shabby Nest, Tatertots and Jello, Be Different Act Normal

"Kick"ing up Wishes

2011-12-05T05:20:00.000-08:00

Time to make your wishes...

the Kicks Wish Book is ready.

Come into the store and jot down what you are drooling over.

Lee and the girls will give you a card,
(to conveniently leave around)
to let that special someone know...

The hardest part is narrowing down the list!

also on Shabby Nest

Santa is Stuffed (with Stationery)

2011-12-02T05:29:00.000-08:00

Sacks stuffed with

Santa Hat Stationery, a Candy Cane Pen and...

and a little

Bubble Gum Bribe

for some writing incentive...

If Santa says you can chew bubble gum

while you write your thank you note to Aunt June then you better do it!

also on Design Dazzle, Tatertots and Jello, Under the Table and Dreaming, Be Different Act Normal, Skip to my Lou, Today's Creative, Just a Girl, Tidy Mom

Holiday Nose Jobs...Favors and Stationery

2011-12-01T05:28:00.000-08:00

I am working on some

Flashing Rudolf Nose Party Favors,

and it got me thinking...

The next batch of Reindeer Stationery Sets
needed a little more bling ...

I stashed them inside with a little tag to inspire the

thank you note writers...

even up close,
Rudolf's nose job looks pretty good.

also on Design Dazzle, Shabby Nest, Tatertots and Jello, Under the Table and Dreaming, Be Different Act Normal, Skip to my Lou, Today's Creative, Homework, Just a Girl, Tidy Mom

Gingerbread Boy S'mores

2011-11-30T05:09:00.000-08:00

Oh Boy!

We are having a hard time getting back

in the swing of things after Thanksgiving.

In a effort to cheer up the kids

and get a bunch of sugar in them before homework,

we made Gingerbread Boy S'mores...

Melted Mint Marshmallows

smashed in between various Gingerbread people...

so good!

Darn you
Trader Joe's
for making S'mores so easy...

also on Tatertots and Jello, Under the Table and Dreaming, Be Different Act Normal, Skip to my Lou, Today's Creative

A new look...

2011-11-23T11:05:00.000-08:00

I usually have a hard time with change

but I am excited for this one...

a fresh look to my blog,

looking forward to many fun things to come...

"Spooning Up" Sweet Baby Shower Favors...

2011-11-22T05:30:00.000-08:00

A gaggle of Girly Goodies for

Laura's Baby Shower Favors...

Bright Baby Food Jars filled

with Gum Drops and topped with a spoon...

Hot Pink Rock Candy...

and Sweet Tart Candy Canes...

will be ready for the ladies to

take home in cellophane bags...

and the sweet, simple invitation that inspired it all...

Poinsettia Pouches

2011-11-21T05:10:00.000-08:00

Fuzzy Felt Pouches...

stuffed with

Pretty Poinsettia Notecards and Pen...

just a slight shimmer

to brighten up your holiday notes...

also on Just a Girl

Writing with Reindeer...Holiday Stationery

2011-11-18T05:12:00.000-08:00

Rudolf with his nose so bright

and a candy cane pen...

nestled in Reindeer felt bags,

hopefully will help "guide" the kids
with the holiday thank you note writing!

also on Tatertots and Jello, Be Different Act Normal, Design Dazzle, Just a Girl

Minty Marketing...

2011-11-17T05:35:00.000-08:00

In my attempt to

"Hook" all the holiday shoppers...

I am giving out complimentary Candy Canes

at the Holiday Boutique...

Peppermint, Smartie and Sweet Tarts Flavors...

Let's hope they

"suck them up"!

and trust me,

the Smartie and Sweet Tart flavors are so good...

also on Tatertots and Jello, Shabby Nest, Be Different Act Normal, Just a Girl

Colorful Cocoa...Tags with Pizazz

2011-11-16T05:39:00.000-08:00

Sets of Hot Chocolate themed gift tags...

In Merry and Bright

travel mugs for the holidays...

Wrapped and Ready with...

Hot Cocoa Spoons!
you can get the spoons here

Cheers

also on Shabby Nest, Tatertots and Jello, Be Different Act Normal, Just a Girl

"Hidden Agenda" Thanksgiving Place Cards...

2011-11-15T05:32:00.000-08:00

Glittered Gobbler Place Cards will be

donning Stephanie's Thanksgiving Table...

At a well planned time,

she will have everyone look under their card

and write one word of thanks about the person to their right.

I feel sorry for whoever is to Stephanie's left...
one word to sum up why they should thank her,
IMPOSSIBLE!

Gingerbread and Gumdrops Holiday Party

2011-11-11T05:37:00.000-08:00

There is nothing more

colorful and sweet

than the hostesses of

the Hayden's Annual Mother-Daughter Gingerbread Party.

I wanted to make sure the invitations this year were a reflection of that...

the invitations in boxes filled with gumdrops...

tied with a bow and tag and ready to be delivered...

I am so glad the holidays are almost here!

also on Shabby Nest, Just a Girl, Tatertots and Jello, Design Dazzle

Catch the Gingerbread Man (and Woman)...

2011-11-10T05:48:00.000-08:00

The Gingerbread Man often taunts,

"You can't catch me..."

Well...

we caught him and his girlfriend,

put them in nice little homes...

and they are ready to go to the Holiday Boutique.

Get 'em while they are hot...
Gingerbread "People" Gift Tags

also on French Country Cottage, My Repurposed Life, Just a Girl, Tatertots and Jello, Just a Girl

"Writing" off into the Sunset...Horse Themed Stationery

2011-11-09T05:33:00.000-08:00

Karen has 3 girls and for the last few years she has given them

personalized stationery for summer camp.

Emma and Julia received theirs and

now this Christmas it is Anna's turn.

She will be "writing" off into the sunset in style...

Table Turkeys...Thanksgiving Place cards

2011-11-08T05:31:00.000-08:00

Glamerous Gold...

Sassy Suede...

and even a Chic Chocolate Glitter atop

the invitation for Sunset Ranch...

let's just hope the shoppers

Gobble them up

at the Holiday Boutique!

on a side note...

I was so proud of myself, I worked on these and packaging them.

Then picked up the kids, did errands, went to my daughter's volleyball game.

About 9pm last night my daughter said, "I love the gold turkey on your sleeve".

I had one stuck to my arm ALL day :) Festive, huh?

Also on Today's Creative, Skip to my Lou, Homework, French Country Cottage, My Repurposed LIfe, Just a Girl, Tatertots and Jello

Lunch for Amelia's Author...

2011-11-04T05:38:00.000-07:00

If you are an Elementary School girl,

you probably know of Amelia and her "notebook" style books.

The author of these books, Marissa Moss,

came to school for a special assembly and the excitement could hardly be contained.

I was asked to bring her favorite lunch and

I wanted to do something to make it a special...

a personalized notebook and lunch in a giant Chinese take out box...

maybe after her day with the characters at our school

she will have some material for Amelia's next journal :)

also on Shabby Nest, Just a Girl

Good Clean Halloween Fun...

2011-11-01T05:42:00.000-07:00

For the last 7 years we have had the same Halloween Tradition.

We head to our buddies' house for fabulous chili and cornbread,

then out for an evening of wild Trick or Treating.

The hosts are the best around.

So gracious.

It is always, the more the merrier,

and Halloween is no exception.

I got her a few supplies, just in case there is a

little Tuesday Morning mess...

also on Today's Creative, Homework, Shabby nest, Just a Girl

Smile...last minute Halloween Hostess Gifts

2011-10-29T06:15:00.000-07:00

A little something to let the

hosts know how "bloody" happy we are to

celebrate Halloween with them...

Glow in the Dark

Fang Suckers in a jar...

Fang You,

have a great Halloween!

also on Be Different Act Normal, Tatertots and Jello, Just a Girl, Design Dazzle, I heart Naptime, Skip to my Lou, Today's Creative

Munchies on the Moon...Space Party Snacks

2011-10-28T05:35:00.000-07:00

I think our mission to treat the teachers with

Mock-tails and Munchies was a BLAST for everyone.

They enjoyed...

Chicken Apple Sausages and Gouda

wrapped in Phyllo and topped with an American Flag,
a la the 1969 Moon Landing...

Snacked on...

Chinese Chicken Salad with

Star Croutons and Chow Mein Noodle "streaks"

and mowed through...

decadent brownies with

Milky Way Bars mixed in...

Houston, we do not have a problem.

It was OUT OF THIS WORLD!

also on Design Dazzle, Shabby Nest, Tatertots and Jello, Be Different Act Normal, Just a Girl, I heart Naptime, Skip to my Lou, Today's Creative, Homework, Reason to Skip the Housework

Mock-tails on the Moon!

2011-10-27T05:29:00.000-07:00

Our Space Age Mock-tail bar at the

"After-hours" Teacher Book Fair Party

The Star Bar

is open to quench the thirsts of

the teachers and staff,

as they browse for books...

and as a party favor,

Mission Accomplished Waters...

Up next,

the Meteoric Munchies!

also on My Repurposed Life, Shabby Nest, Design Dazzle, Tatertots and Jello, Be Different Act Normal, Just a Girl, I heart Naptime, Skip to my Lou, Today's Creative

It's a Wrap...Gift Cards

2011-10-24T05:32:00.000-07:00

In an effort to make

gift cards a little more fun to open,

this is what we brought to the party...

for her

nail polish and a gift card for a manicure

on a bed of cotton balls

for him,
a sporty gift card on
a bunch of baseball gum balls and chocolate golf balls

also on Skip to my Lou, Today's Creative, Homework, My Repurposed Life, Shabby Nest, Tatertots and Jello, Be Different Act Normal, Just a Girl, I heart Naptime

Halloween Hostess Gifts

2011-10-21T05:35:00.000-07:00

What we are bringing to

this year's Halloween Festivities...

One wishing the hosts some peace and quiet

after a houseful of Frankensteins, super heros and princesses...

the other thanking friends for

Wrapping Up

another great year of Halloween Food and Fun...

also on Shabby Nest, Tatertots and Jello, Be Different Act Normal, I heart Naptime, Todays Creative, Homework

An "ice" get well gift...

2011-10-19T05:20:00.000-07:00

a little something for my friend who is

under the weather,

simple and a little retro-just like her...

but after having a cold for the last 5 days,

I may have to get one for myself!

also on Southern Lovely, Someday Crafts, My Repurposed Life, French Country Cottage, Shabby Nest, 504 Main, Tidy Mom, Be Different Act Normal, I heart Naptime, Today's Creative

Pumpkin Ice Cream

2011-10-18T05:23:00.000-07:00

Pretty Plates of Pumpkin Ice Cream

that we Played with yesterday...

Go Pick a Pint!

also on Today's Creative, Skip to my Lou, Homework, Southern Lovely, Someday Crafts, My Repurposed Life, Fingerprints on the Fridge, French Country Cottage, Shabby Nest, 504 Main, Tidy Mom, Design Dazzle, Tatertots and Jello, Be Different Act Normal, I heart Naptime

Totally "Spacing" Out

2011-10-17T05:17:00.000-07:00

The invitations for the

Teacher Events at the school book fair...

The week will launch off with a special lunch...

and end with a

meteoric mocktail party...

It is going to be a blast!

also on Skip to my Lou, Tidy Mom, Shabby Nest, Be Different Act Normal