Painting Pottery.

Ok I know I'm a bit of a groupon crazy lately, but after Thomas guessed about 50 times that his surprise (which was actually an Easter basket) was painted pottery I couldn't resist buying a groupon to visit Pottery Bears 'n Beads in Clearwater with my roommate, 'the other Bekah'. We bought them just before I headed to New York and she headed off on a crusie (rough lives, yes?) but we're diligent planners so we'd marked down last Wednesday night as the big day.

So after work we picked up my car which had to go in for a little tune up during the workday, we headed home, got comfortable (changed into sweats), and went for 'ladies night' at the Bears 'n Beads. We bought our groupons for $12 and they were good for $24 of 'goods'. We didn't know just how far that would get us but I have to say, it was impressively reasonable - with a $7.50 studio fee no matter how many pieces you paint (I painted 3), free soda or wine while you paint (on Wednesday nights because it's ladies night), and plenty of pieces under 10 bucks.

I painted a picture frame for Thomas and these lovely salt and pepper shakers...

I can't wait to see them after they've been fired. Were picking them up this coming Wednesday (I'm horrible at waiting).

We had a great time though, and the guy working was delightful. I can't believe I didn't think to ask his name and neither did Bekah. But they gave us coupons for our next trip in, which I hope will be soon. We had a great time and for me, a great first experience painting pottery. I wouldn't say I'm talented or anything, but I do love a good craft night.

Love,

B

Looks I Love #11.

I love maxi dresses although truthfully I haven't bought new ones since my weight loss so I should get on that. Love the casual, effortlessness of this outfit.

Love,
B

As life continues to get even crazier for me, one thing I've managed to do well is stay organized. Partly because I've self-diagnosed myself with severe OCD with more obsessive than compulsive behaviors. But also because I refuse to allow my crazy life to get the best of me. I desire to be someone who is disciplined, purposeful, and productive. So with my growing life and schedule, has come even more need for my freakish organizational skills.

I've been carrying my faithful black Coach planner for 5 solid years now (I'm thinking of rewarding myself with a new one this winter) but in 2011 I've added a few new things. The tiny spiral notebook pictured above holds my shopping lists. Sams club, Publix, even clothing needs - they're all listed there until they've been checked off and bought. It keeps them handy, so that I don't have to make extra trips for things I forgot I needed. Cuts down on wasted time and money. Love it.

The tan and brown notebook is my new to-do list notebook. Note: spirals are the way to go for these type lists, as they're not hard to write in or keep open while you're checking off. I work 2-3 days out at all times. As I think of what needs to be done, I put it either on that day, the next, or something 2 days out. This helps me stay on top of dry cleaning, house cleaning, bible study homework, cooking, cards I want to send out, birthday presents that need to be mailed, etc. Also, being able to check things off gives me a sense of accomplishment.

I enjoy having the ability to see what's been done or is coming up to be done later that week at all times, but when a notebook is finished, I toss it. Not reason to hang on to what's been done and checked off. This notebook keeps me both purposeful and productive and reminds me what needs to be done if I have a free 10 minutes. I even keep track of who I owe a phone call this way, and it keeps me from letting weeks go by without calling a friend or family member.

You'd be surprised how much more you accomplish when you have a list. I encourage any of you who feel a little overwelmed lately to give it a try. Takes a little while to get in the groove but I promise you, it's life-changing.

Love,
B

NYC Giveaway: Winner!

Congrats to Kate - the 6th commenter on my New York Giveaway post, you're the winner! If you'll send me your info via e-mail to thequeenbc@gmail.com I'll get your gifts in the mail to you. : ]

Thanks to all my followers and those who commented to participate. The winner of my Bic giveaway will be announced on Monday.

Love,
B

Dance Lesson Adventures.

image.

Well friends, the dance lessons have the begun. Thomas texted me a month or so ago and mentioned that there was a groupon for dance lessons - 2 private and 1 group for $25. After his cousin Brian's wedding we realized were both equally lost on the dance floor and so he suggested we do something about that before his brother's upcoming wedding in July.

I agreed and we purchased the groupon and I called last week to schedule our private lessons, the first of which was last night. The lessons are at Arthur Murray dance studio here in Tampa.

I wish I'd recorded the conversation I had when I called in. The friendly woman on the other line asked if Thomas and I have danced before. I responded something along the lines of 'if you can call it dancing'. She asked what kinds of dance we're interested in, as if we could name more than 3 kinds between us (and the first one that came to mind for me was 'booty dancing'). I responded, 'let's just say we need all the help we can get just to look comfortable on the dance floor at his brother's wedding'. That drove the point home.

So, our first lesson was last night (Thursday) and I think we may have been equally anxious about it. Thomas asked me what to wear...something I hadn't even thought about until he asked. In hindsight I probably should have worn heels since when we dance at the wedding that's what I will be in, I'm sure. But I wore clothes you'd wear to the gym and he wore jeans.

Thankfully our instructor was incredibly kind and gracious. He was so encouraging of us. I am equally thankful that we weren't nearly as bad as we expected once we were told what to do. It was a 3o minute lesson during which we learned the tango, the rumba, and the fox trot. Not bad for two rookies with 30 minutes, right?

I think we may actually come out of these lessons being able to scoot around the dance floor looking like we belong (though probably not stealing the show anytime soon). We may have to hit up a few of their social nights, where you pay 10 dollars and you can dance with your partner, with their instructors, etc for 3 hours and just get a little practice in (we probably have to learn how to stop counting in our heads and just be able to move more naturally).

Overall, a pleasant first dancing experience. I'm excited we decided to go for it even though it was a bit out of both of our comfort zones. : ]

Love,

B

Bic House Party & Another Giveaway!

After attending a sponsored party through House Party before, at my girl Auburn's house, I signed up myself and was selected to host a party for Bic. The party was to highlight their Soleil razors which each of the attendees got to take home and try, along with coupons for more, and scrapbooking supplies to document their favorite summer memories.

I love summertime, in fact, that's a huge part of why I moved to Florida, so I could pretend it's summer year round. Sadly, that doesn't come with the freedom to spend every single day at the pool (I keep hoping). So I made a few summery treats to go along with our party and I thought I'd share one very successful recipe here:

Lemon-raspberry mousse squares:


Ingredients:
- 48 Nilla wafers, divided
- 3/4 cup boiling water
- 1 pkg lemon jello
- 1 cup ice cubes
- pkg (8 0z) philly cream cheese (I used fat free)
- 1/4 of sugar
- tsp lemon zest
- 1 tub (8 oz) Cool Whip (again, I used fat free)
- 1/3 cup raspberry preserves
- 1-1 1/2 cups fresh fruit


Make it:


- Stand 16 Nilla wafers around edge of plastic wrap lined 8 inch square pan. Add boiling water to gelatin mix, stir 2 minutes until completely dissolved. Stir in ice until melted.
- Beat next 3 ingredients in large bowl with mixer until blended. Gradually beat in gelatin. Whisk in 2 cups Cool whip.
- Pour half the gelatin mixture into prepared pan; cover with 16 wafers. Microwave preserves on high 15 sec or until melted; brush onto wafers. Top with remaining gelatin mixturee and wafters.
- Refridgerate 4 hours or until firm. Invert onto a plate and top with remaining cool whip and fresh fruit (I did strawberries and raspberries).


It was SO good and the way we made it really low fat/calories. Just don't forget it has to sit 4 hours, I didn't notice that in time.


The party was a a great time. Good food, fun activities, lively fellowship...what more could you want?

Oh wait, I know what you could want... they said I could giveaway a set of party favors to one of you lovely ladies (or gents I guess, if you're interested). So, you know the deal - I like things simple. Comment below (you do have to be a follower) and you're entered to win. I will generate the number and announce the winner Monday, June 6th. Two chances to win in one week, what could be better?

Love,

B

Motivated.

Can I brag on myself for just a moment? Hey, my blog - I do what I want. I blogged here last week about making a new life plan and setting some new goals and priorities to focus on. Well I know it's been less than a week since that post but I have to tell you I have been DOMINATING my new life plan. Most importantly with my new budget, financial plan, and reset priorities for where my money is going and what I'm saving for - I have rocked it. Like 11 on a scale of 1 to 10 rocked it.

I'm also trying to be more on top of my house (which I cleaned relentlessly this weekend). I reorganized and cleaned the fridge, pantry, freezer, and cabinets. I also vacuumed and mopped the floors, cleaned my bathroom, changed sheets, dusted, wiped my baseboards, that whole sha-bang. I feel cleaned and organized, now just to stay on top of it.

In the spirit of getting back on my health goals, I got a few good workouts in, including a walk on Bayshore, my favorite place to workout.

And I can't forget that I shared I was trying to be a more thoughtful friend... and I haven't let that goal go without attention either. I made breakfast for a group of friends Saturday morning, sent another card out this weekend, called a few friends just to say hey, and invited a couple over for dinner this week so we can have a double date that doesn't hurt the budget.

Thanks for helping me stay movitated loves - 2011 sure is turning out to be a great year. The best yet, perhaps?

Love,
B