Category Archives: Shopping

Fun Friday – Stop Struggling with the Time Change and Embrace Spring

Posted on by

Fun Friday320

Spring is here, finally, and you couldn’t be happier, but you still haven’t adjusted to the Time Change.  At least, I know that I am still struggling.

I am still craving that hour.  I am not sure if it’s Mind Over Matter.  But, for me moving into the New Season calls for some change to my routine.

Here are some things that get me back on track, and psyched for the new season.

1.  Bring the Smell of Spring inside by throwing open the windows and letting the Fresh Air In.

2.  Fresh Flowers – I would have fresh flowers in every room, if it wasn’t so pricey.  So I try to keep Fresh Flowers in my Kitchen.

3.  Hit Up a Local Farmer’s Market.

4.  Indulge in some Fresh Fruit and Vegetables.

5.  Get Out in The Sun.  Take your kid’s to the park.  Get outside and talk a walk.  Hibernation Season is Over.

6.  Get Your Hands in the Dirt.  Whether you are planning a full fledged Garden or just some Flowers for the Front of the House.  Feel that Earth.

7.  Indulge in a Warm Weather Treat.  Get An Ice Cream Cone or Buy Some Ice Pops.  (That should score you some Mommy Brownie Points.)

8.  Retail Therapy.  It’s almost time for Sandals, Sundresses, Sunhats, Sunnies, Etc.  (And, have you purchased your Easter Outfits yet?)

It’s Spring — Embrace It!!

Home Decor Trend: Adding Depth & Character With Maps

Posted on by

MapTrend

Photo Collage Sources: 1 2 3 4

With the economy on an upward swing came the re-introduction of Wanderlust.

wan·der·lust  ˈwändərˌləst/ noun – a strong desire to travel, and a love of all things travel related

And, the evidence of this is becoming more and more clear in the latest design trend of Decorating with Maps.  Decorating with Maps adds both depth and character to an otherwise blank canvas. Our cultures and traditions are often tied into Geography, where we grow up whether in the north, south, east or west coasts, urban, rustic, or suburban neighborhoods often shapes our varied tastes and preferences.  The things that bring us comfort and peace are often bits and pieces of home, no matter how far we travel.  We gravitate to the familiar.
The Choices are Limitless on how to use Maps, here are a few of my Favorite Places and Ways to Display Them in your home.

1.  Maps in a Child’s Room or Play Space:

I love seeing maps in a Kid’s Living Space.  I think it speaks to the vast possibilities that lay ahead in their lives.  They can go anywhere and be anything that they could possible conceive.  It’s almost like a subliminal message!!  I have seen Maps tied into the Dr. Seuss Theme – “Oh The Places You’ll Go.”  for nurseries, play rooms, and even for party themes.  Maps scream Endless Adventure!!

2.  Maps in a Dining Room or Family Living Area:

Often Maps used in a common living space are used as a means to connect you to the past.  I often see it in homes of older people  or transplanted families who want to bring a piece of the home land into their current space.   It often serves as a reminder of the Culture and Tradition that is still with them, even if they have transplanted to different parts of the world.  Nostalgic Memorabilia

3.  Maps that Tell A Story:

Wedding locations or even maps that document where you met your significant other are becoming very popular.  If you have moved around a lot or had multiple homes over the course of your relationship, these maps hold a meaning that maybe not every one else will understand but between the two of you, or even just your immediate family.  They speak volumes.

Where to Find Maps:

These days most Home Decor Stores carry Maps, for the most part all of the Maps that I have seen have been framed.  But, if you want to be a little adventurous Antique Stores offer some great Vintage Options, and a one of a kind look.  Then there is always the option the to go Digital.  Digital Maps give you more options, regarding size and layout.  Check out some of the Maps we have available in Our Etsy Store.

Interesting-Facts-300x300

 

 

Did you know that many Vintage World Maps have hidden text, as well as hidden pictures that are not visible to the Naked Eye?  Viewing some of these maps with a telescope or under different lighting can be quite the experience.  We found maps that even had some risque pics on it.  So, if you are looking to display maps in a space that has a PG Audience, be sure to check for Hidden Treasure.

 

 

Do you use Maps to decorate your home?  What has been your favorite landing place and the meaning behind the maps you used?

41415c4be58e4d65d511068b19fa88f0

Photo Source:

Fun Friday: 10 Things You Don’t Skimp On

Posted on by

10 Things You Don't Skimp On

Since going from a 2 to 1 income household, being  more frugal has become a big part of my life.  I certainly was not excited, nor did I welcome the changes that had to be made to maintain our lifestyle.  But, I knew it had to be done.  There was a lot of restructuring that had to be done and the pieces of the puzzle seem to continually stay in motion.  But, that being said, there are still some things that I just don’t skimp on.

Cleaning Supplies:  Dish Washing Liquid, Laundry Detergent, All Purpose Cleaners & Disinfectant Wipes.  I know not everyone, my Mom included, will agree with me here, but I stand by this one.  The cheaper options just don’t cut it, or you have to use more to achieve the desired results.

Skin Care Products:  Moisturizers, Lotions, Facial Cleansers, Lip Gloss, Makeup.  Eventually, I feel like you know what works for your skin.  I am not a big makeup person, but I swear by MAC Lip Liner and their Tinted LipGlass.  After a lot of trial and error with facial cleaners and moisturizers I am a devoted Garnier fan.  I use their Balancing Daily Exfoliator and their Moisture Rescue Refreshing Gel Cream.  I am less discriminating about my lotions, as long as it gives me extra moisture for the winter months, I can get by with Vaseline Intensive Care.

Perfume/Cologne: Whether you are purchasing this for yourself or as a gift.  Don’t cheap out when it comes to this.  You know how you feel when that special someone goes by you and you catch a whiff of his Special Scent.  Right??

Toiletries:  Toilet Tissue, Paper Towels.  For me this is about both comfort and cleanliness, no 1 ply for me.  As for paper towels, I am an all the way BOUNTY girl.  I need my Paper Towels to be Heavy Duty.  I think this is a MOM requirement.  **Not to mention, I have tried some bargain brands that leave something to be desired when it comes to the way they smell when wet.  Has anyone else experienced this? **

Housewares: Linens, Bedding, Towels.  Purchasing Quality Housewares prevent you from having to purchase them over and over again.  I say buy the higher end products, the higher thread counts, the heavier towels and washcloths.  They will last longer and just give you a more pleasurable/luxurious experience.  And, White Sales are pretty common place (especially in January), even if you have to wait to catch these items on sale.  They will be well worth the wait.

Kitchen Appliances:   Blender, Food Processor, Juicer, Toaster and Coffee Maker.  No one wants to begin any kind of project in the Kitchen only to find that your appliance has failed.  I can’t tell you how many blenders I went through before I decided to invest in one that was up to the task.

Nutrition:  Vitamins, Medicine, and Even Healthier Food Options.  It just is not easy to live healthy.  It sucks, but it is the truth.  I try to give my family healthy food choices and options, but I will be the first to admit that I wish I could shop Whole Foods exclusively.  On this, I say do the best you can within the confines of your budget.  They will thank you later.

Shoes:  I am a shoe lover and kind of a shoe snob too.  I probably would have a closet full of shoes, if wasn’t so picky when it comes to my shoes.  Instead I have my staples.  Basic Black Pumps, A Stylish Wedge, Fancy Sandals with or without a heel, that you can dress up or down, Rain Boots, Winter Boots, Sneakers(for Exercise Purposes, and then for Sporty Mom purposes), and as many pairs of Heart Stoppers (the ones that always get you a second look) and Flip Flops, as you can manage.  In this case, quality just last longer, providing you take care of them.

“Underthangs”:  And, let’s face it , even if you are the perfect weight and height, the older we get the better quality we need.  Things just don’t settle where they used to.(side-eye)  They need to pull in, lift up, and separate, etc.  lol.

A Good Bed:  Is EVERYTHING!!  Not sure this even needs an explanation, it makes the difference in both Good Nights and Good Mornings.

“Measure Twice – Cut Once.”  Sometimes it’s worth it to make the informed and maybe more costly choice, right out the gate.  You are putting out more money on the Front End, but I believe it will benefit you in the Long Run.

What are the purchases that you JUST DON’T SKIMP ON?  Share your Comments Below.

Black Friday Do’s, Don’ts, FYIs, and You Better Nots.

Posted on by
Black Friday, better known as “Black and Blue Friday” in some parts of the country, is fast approaching. Deals and steals galore, right? Not in all instances. There are some deals to be found but unless you are a die hard Black Friday shopper, your time would be better spent digesting the Thanksgiving dinner you just ingested.
Black Friday Dp's Don'ts, FYIS and You Better Nots
1.  Shop at stores that allow you to wait in line inside such as Walmart.
2.  Compare regular prices to Black Friday prices. I have seen instances where the Black Friday price is only $5 cheaper. Is driving around town, in the cold really worth it?
3.  Stock up on clothing. There are many more stores that have deals on clothing than toys and electronics. Believe it or not, this is a good time to buy Christmas PJ’s.
4.  Leave purses and other unnecessary objects at home. There are thieves that target Black Friday shoppers.  Be aware of your surroundings.
5.  Place purchases in the trunk, and out of view. Smash and Grabs are prevalent around this time of year.  Not something you want to come back to.
6.  Don’t go Black Friday shopping at all. You have a month until Christmas and there will be many more sales and similar deals.
7.  Go early. Some stores give out tickets for items such as TVs and computers before the sale actually starts. When the tickets go, the items are done.
8.  Don’t get your hopes up. Most stores don’t follow the rules set forth in their advertisements. Their job is to make money, not to accommodate you.Black Friday Do's and Don'ts
written by my darling husband (dh) – Anwar Thomas
**For more information on this year(2015 Black Friday Sales), follow this link.**(Updated Yearly)