Wednesday, November 30, 2011

My First Embarrassing Pregnancy Story!

Pregnancy does some funny things to you. For example it makes you worry over every single little thing that you put in or on your body. For the first few weeks of pregnancy, I refused to take any medication even if it was on the approved list. That is until the mother of all headaches hit me.

You are allowed to take Tylenol while pregnant, but of course I had none. On my way to work I stopped at our friendly neighborhood Kroger. I desperately searched the pharmacy aisles for Tylenol. There was none! NONE! I stumbled up to the pharmacy counter asked the pharmacists about the Tylenol. She responded, "Oh honey, due to the recall we haven't had Tylenol in months".

Now let's pause the story here. Any sane person would have asked for another recommendation. Not preggo me! What did I do? Oh, I burst into tears. That's right! I cried right there in the middle of Kroger! I am totally not a crier, but I ugly cried over Tylenol that day!

Thankfully, the pharmacist was a bit more sane than I was at that moment. She went to the aisle and picked out the generic Tylenol for me. I thanked her and sniffed my way to the check out line.

I left Kroger with a bottle of pills and a Coca-Cola (don't judge-you can have a little bit of caffeine when your pregnant). As I walked to my car, my sanity was once again restored and I couldn't help but think to myself 'holy cow I just cried (ugly cried) in the middle of Kroger'. I was totally embarrassed, but I couldn't help but giggle when I thought of the series of events that had just happened.

Pregnancy Truth #1) Sometimes you cry for no good reason at all. Sometimes you end of crying for no good reason at all in public places.

Wednesday, November 23, 2011

My Three Big Secrets

I have been such a bad blogger! Believe it or not, I am still reading all my favorite blogs. I have to keep up with my sweet blog friends! Unfortunately keeping up with my blog and commenting on the blogs I love to read has not been happening. I do, however, have 3 big secrets to share with you!

Secret #1: I recently lost 30 pounds on the new Weight Watchers program. I have such a hard time losing weight, so this was a huge accomplishment for me!

Secret #2: I am putting my weight loss on hold for a little while because I'm pregnant! I am currently 18 weeks pregnant with our first baby! I couldn't be more excited-a little scared-but excited!

Secret #3: It's a boy! Our sweet baby is a baby boy! His due date is estimated to be around April 23rd! We are still working on names!

Thanks for letting me share my secrets! I have so many stories to share with you, so hopefully this post marks the beginning of me being back to blogging! I have to run, but I can't close this post without wishing all of my blog friends a very Happy Thanksgiving! I hope that your Thanksgiving is filled with lots of family and fun!!!!!

Friday, September 9, 2011

Game Day Fashion Emergency

Game Day attire around here is serious business. A cute dress is a must for tailgating and attending the football game. While finding the appropriate attire is simple for some, others struggle to find something cute to wear to cheer on their favorite college football team. I fall in the others category. Every year I struggle to find a cute game day outfit. If you are looking for a last minute look, don't forget to dig dip in your closet.

A denim skirt or any cute skirt (skirt from Old Navy)


paired with a fitted,vintage team tee (these are from J.C. Penney)


and accessorized with a pair of cute wedges (pictured below: TOMS wedges) and fun jewelry can make an appropriate game day outfit!

If you are looking for something a little more dressy, but you still can't find that perfect game day dress consider adding an embellished tee or cute blouse in your team colors (like these cute choices from Target). Unfortunately, neither of these shirts are in my team colors, but you get the idea. :)

Good luck finding your game day attire! I am still hunting for a cute dress, but until I find it I will happily wear my fashion emergency substitutes! Happy Tailgating!!

Tuesday, August 30, 2011

A Fall Favorite

This morning I walked outside and was delighted to feel a tiny hint of Fall in the air. I love summer (even long, hot ones), but I always greet Fall with open arms.

One of my Fall favorites for my house is a pumpkin spice scented candle. There are several companies that offer delightful pumpkin spice scents. You can find wonderful Fall scents at Yankee Candle, Bath and Body Works, and even big box stores like Wal-Mart.

My choice of pumpkin spice candle this year is going to come from Kringle Candle Company. I was introduced to this candle company with at the Atlanta Gift Mart in July. Kringle Candle is a relatively new candle company founded by the son of the founder of Yankee Candle Company. All Kringle candles are white and come in beautiful reusable jars. They also smell wonderful.

I can't wait to burn my new Fall candle, and enjoy all the wonderful things that Fall has to offer (like college football)! Happy (Almost) Fall Y'all! :)



via

Tuesday, August 23, 2011

An Anniversary Trip

For our 5th wedding anniversary my sweet husband surprised me with a little weekend getaway to Apalachicola, FL. We had never been there before, and we honestly didn't know what to expect. However, it turned out to be an absolutely wonderful trip!

Apalachicola is part of Florida's 'Forgotten Coast". It is so quaint and so relaxed! Not to mention that everyone we encountered was super friendly!

We stayed at The Gibson Inn. It was built in 1907. It has a charming bed and breakfast feel, and it even has a few ghostly visitors. Thankfully we did not encounter any ghostly visitors on our trip!

We spent our days playing on the beach at St. George Island and Cape San Blas. As you can see from the picture, we basically had the beach all to ourselves!


We spent our evenings exploring the quaint town of Apalachicola. It has wonderful shops and restaurants in the downtown area and beautiful old homes and churches in the residential area of town.



We even met a new friend! ;)

And of course, we enjoyed some really great seafood!

It was a perfect way to celebrate our anniversary, and we can not wait to go back!

Monday, August 15, 2011

My Trip to the Plastic Surgeon

When I told my husband that I had made an appointment with the plastic surgeon he was a little confused. Although I did see a tiny smile on his face. I think he was secretly hoping that I had plans to get some stripper sized enhancements. He He He! ;)

I actually didn't visit a plastic surgeon about a cosmetic procedure, I made an appointment to talk to their skin care specialist . I met with her today, and I could not be happier. She answered all my questions and helped me develop a skin care routine that was more suited for my skin's needs. She even helped me weigh the benefits of the products with the price of the product. You have to love a frugal consultant. My consultation was free, and I left with several samples. I also purchased a cream that she suggested for under $50.

Since I am a skin care junkie, I thought I would share some of her advice to me with you. Here are two tips that apply to most all skin types and are affordable!

Tip #1) Always use sunscreen. - Of course! I already knew this. However, I did not realize that not all sunscreens are created equal. You want to make sure you use a sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB rays. She stated that she thought the best over-the-counter sunscreen available for purchase right now is Neutrogena with helioplex.

Tip #2) Use a toner.- I have dry skin and very few blemish problems, so I thought there was no need for me to use a toner. I learned that toner actually helps to balance the pH of your skin and prepares your skin for your skin care/anti-aging products. She suggested that I use witch hazel which comes in a very large and very cheap bottle at Wal-Mart.



I will let you know how my new skin care routine goes! I can't wait to give it all a try!

What are your favorite skin care tips?

Friday, August 12, 2011

Happily Ever After

Five years ago today I married the most wonderful man! It was the best decision I have ever made! Here's to five amazing years and many, many more!






Tuesday, August 9, 2011

My Favorite Things

Hand Wash Only! These three little words used to mean 'deal breaker' when I read it on a garment's care tag. Not any more! I have found the perfect solution for delicates-Forever New.


Photo Source

This product was suggested to me during a bra fitting at Intimacy of Atlanta. It has proven to be perfect for bras and all other hand wash only garments. I even use it on my cute embellished tees!

Forever New makes hand washing garments easy. You simply dissolve the detergent in water, soak the garment for 5 minutes and rinse twice. The garment comes out clean and smelling great! Forever New also helps restore the elasticity of spandex and other stretch fabrics. Oh and did I forget to tell you that it is reasonably priced!

You can visit their website to learn more about all the products they offer and where to buy them! Of course, you can also find Forever New on Amazon.


Thursday, August 4, 2011

Just a Big Kid

A few weeks ago I accompanied my Mom and oldest sister to the Atlanta Gift Mart to help them buy for their oh so cute gift shop. I absolutely love these trips! While I was there I was hoping to run into a blog friend or two, but unfortunately I didn't. I did, however, run into an old forgotten friend-Snoopy! I just couldn't resist having my picture made with this gigantic Snoopy! Isn't he precious! Sorry for the random post, but I just had to share this. I mean it isn't every day that you run into a Snoopy that is larger than you! :)

Tuesday, August 2, 2011

My Favorite Things

It's been too long since I have shared one of my favorite things with you! If you couldn't tell, I have lost a bit of my blogging mojo, but I am slowly getting it back!

My new favorite thing come to me courtesy of my two thirteen year old nieces (who keep me up to date on what is hip and cool) and my good friend Sarah. A while back my nieces introduced me to TOMS shoes. I absolutely loved the whole idea of TOMS, but I never bought a pair for myself. To be honest TOMS shoes looked a little like elf shoes on my feet. They are so cute on everyone else, but they made me look like I should be making toys in Santa's workshop! Not having a pair of TOMS was a little disappointing!

But wait! Stop the presses! Did you know that TOMS has wedges? Thanks to my friend, Sarah, I discovered the world of TOMS wedges! I love a wedge shoe! TOMS wedges are not only cute but they are very comfortable! They come in several colors and materials. I couldn't resist the red canvas wedges! Make sure to check them out. Remember that with every pair you purchase, TOMS give a new pair to a child in need!


Photo courtesy of TOMS website

Tuesday, July 12, 2011

Childhood Flashback: Double Dare Style

Recently a treasure was unearthed-a simple VHS tape that held something very entertaining! Here's the story!

A friend of ours, Keller, was on Family Double Dare back in 1993. Do you remember Double Dare? Double Dare was a game show that came on Nickelodeon. It was one of my favorites!

Ever since I found out that Keller was on Double Dare, I have been begging to see the episode. Well, it finally happened! The VHS was found and we had a viewing party on Sunday. It was magnificent! Not only was it entertaining to watch our friend and his family compete on Double Dare, but the old commercials were fantastic to watch!

Here's a picture of our friend (he's the little blond) and his family: The Killer Kellers!


Just in case your wondering, the Killer Kellers beat the other team and competed in the Obstacle Course where they won the grand prize! Way to go Killer Kellers!!!!

Thursday, July 7, 2011

Patio Furniture Compromise

I have been wanting patio furniture for our back deck since we moved in to our home 4 years ago. However, the type of patio furniture we want has just not been in our budget. There are other home items on the list that must be purchased before patio furniture.

I really am not a fan of the cheap plastic chairs, so our deck just sat naked. That is until recently! I found a solution to make the cheap plastic chairs look a little cuter.

I found these green chairs at Wal-Mart.And these cute outdoor pillows at Wal-Mart.


I paired them together for a fun but inexpensive look. It's amazing what a pillow can do! It isn't the look I want permanently, but at least now I can sit out on the deck and enjoy a nice summer evening!

Tired of your outdoor furniture? Spruce it up with a pillow, recover the cushions or paint it a fun color! Life is too short not to enjoy a little outdoor living!

Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Destination Domestic: Making My Own Taco Shells


Image found here.

I have been struggling with my blog mojo lately, so I decided it's time to refresh The Pink Chick! I will be changing things here and there, and my first change is today! Today I am introducing a new segment called "Destination Domestic"! I have so many wonderfully domestic friends that inspire me on a daily basis, so I thought I would try my hand at becoming a little more domestic and share my adventures with you!

My first domestic adventure was making homemade taco shells. I saw them in a magazine and thought they looked delicious and rather easy. Basically, you fry a corn tortilla.

My first attempt didn't go so great. I ended up having grease pop in my face (due to a combo of too much oil and too high heat). I suffered minor burns to my cheek, forehead, and eyelids. Of course, I handled to situation with grace. That is if you consider crying and vowing never to cook again graceful! ;)

A week later most of my burns (and my pride) had healed, and I was ready for attempt number two! Attempt two went off without a hitch! The taco shells were delicious and make for one heck of a yummy taco! My husband couldn't stop raving about them!

Burns aside, home made taco shells are super easy to make! You can find great step by step instructions here. You can also try frying strips of corn tortillas to liven up a taco salad!

Sorry I didn't take any pictures! Next time I promise!

Monday, June 27, 2011

Product Review: The HANA Air Premiere Hair Dryer


I'm finally back! Not only am I back, but I'm back with a product review!

Misikko.com recently contacted me about trying out their best blow dryer-the HANA Air Premiere Hair Dryer. I absolutely adore hair products and I love my hair, so of course I said yes!

When the hair dryer first arrived, I wasn't expecting it to be any different than my normal hair dryer. Boy was I surprised! This hair dryer is amazing!

I have very, very thick hair. It usually takes me at least 15 minutes or more to dry my hair with my normal hair dryer. By the time I am finished drying my hair, my face and neck are red from the heat and I am already tired of styling my hair. The HANA hair dyer drys my hair in 5 minutes! That's right-5 minutes!!!! I don't even have to use the highest heat setting! I have been using the HANA hair dryer for about two weeks now, and I have to say that my hair has never been softer or silkier!

In weighing the pros and cons of this hair dryer, the only con is the price. The HANA dryer is on the expensive side, but I have to admit that it is worth the money. I have a tendency to be cheap, but the next time I need a new hair dryer I will not be running to Wal-Mart to pick one up. I will be ordering one of the professional blow dryers (like the HANA) from Misikko. Also, if you are interested in a great flat iron, Misikko also carries a large variety of hair straighteners.

I in no way was compensated for writing this product review except for the receipt of the product that was reviewed. In other words, I really do love this hair dryer and no one paid me to say that! :)

Monday, April 4, 2011

Cover and Conceal

It's no secret that I do not like bathing suit season. Don't get me wrong-I love all things water and beach. However, my body and bathing suits just don't get along! That's why when it comes to bathing suits my strategy is to cover and conceal. I want to be cute when I cover and conceal, so that's why I love a fun, cute swimsuit cover-up.

I found a precious cover-up when I popped into Target today during my lunch break. It was only $17.99, so I couldn't resist buying it. It is much cuter in person than in the pictures below. I just love the ruffle top. It also comes in a ton of fun colors!

My body may not be swimsuit ready, but I'll be just fine hitting the pool or beach in my new cover-up!

Wednesday, March 23, 2011

10 Years Ago Today

Ten years ago today (March 23, 2001) I remember being nervous because I had a blind date. Little did I know that this simple blind date would turn into the best thing that ever happened to me. That shy boy in the orange shirt that showed up at my door to take me out that night, well he turned into the man that I am so happy to call my husband! Ten years ago today I met my husband, the love of my life, and my best friend!

Then.



Now.

Monday, March 7, 2011

My Favorite Things: Gate Jewelry

Holy Cow! Sorry for my lack of posts. Work has been so crazy busy lately! Every year I always seem to forget how busy my job gets as Spring approaches. No worries though. I am so lucky to have a job, and I am so grateful that it is a job that I absolutely love!

In the midst of my crazy work schedule, I couldn't help but pop in to share one of my very favorite things with you-JEWELRY!!! I love jewelry! Whether it is real or costume, jewelry is just fun! The only thing better than jewelry is jewelry with a story.

Several companies have begun creating jewelry based on the beautiful iron work/gates found in southern cities like Charleston. G2 Silver has a wonderful collection of jewelry that mimics some of Charleston's most beautiful buildings. This necklace is a replica of the filigree work in the window of St. Philips Steeple (shown below).


My mother surprised me with a beautiful cuff bracelet from G2 Silver as a birthday gift. My bracelet is a replica of the gates of the Cathedral of Immaculate Conception in Mobile, AL. Unfortunately, I don't have a picture of the bracelet, but you can see the pattern of the bracelet here.

Since I couldn't get enough of this type of jewelry, my mother-in-law purchased a bracelet from the Southern Gate Jewelry collection for me as a birthday gift. This line of jewelry is also modeled after the beautiful ironwork created in the 18th and 19th centuries that can be found in the deep South.


I couldn't find a Southern Gates web-site, but just google them to see the variety of beautiful pieces that they offer!

Whether you are from the South or you have just visited one of its beautiful cities, you can't help but find this gate jewelry charming! It's definitely one of my favorite things!

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

Antique Adventures

The sweet little town I work in has some of the best and most reasonably priced antiques. I usually spend a few lunch hours a month browsing through the antique shops in town. I am not very knowledgeable when it come to antiques. I don't try to find priceless heirlooms. I just look for things that speak to me.

This is what I found on my last antique adventure. Please excuse the poor quality of the photo. It was taken in my office with my iphone.


This sweet charcoal drawing (of cows) in a rustic frame just called to me. It has some water damage, but I think it only adds to the charm. I don't plan on hanging it up on a wall. Instead I want to prop it up against a table leg or book shelf (kind of like they do in the Pottery Barn catalog).

The lady at the antique shop called it striking. I think it is charming. My husband thinks it is heinous, but he felt much better about it when he found out it was only $15 and that I didn't plan on hanging it up! :)

Friday, February 11, 2011

Fun Friday: Name That Drink

Since it is Friday, and I have been a bit boring all week. I thought we could play a game.

My husband and I have a little game that we play when we go to restaurants. He grabs the drink menu and begins reading descriptions of the drinks. I then make up names for them. I don't try to guess the real name of the drink. I just create a new and unique name for it. The game is a little silly but for some reason it is loads of fun!

Want to try? What would you name a drink that contained Bombay Gin, Luxardo Maraschino Cherry Liquer and Lemon Juice, garnished with a cherry? Leave me a comment with your creative drink name! There are no wrong answers! Only fun!

Wednesday, February 9, 2011

Purse Update

Thanks so much for all of you who helped me decide on which purse to purchase! I went with Purse #2! I absolutely love it! It's cute and convenient! Oh and the best part, it was cheap! Now that's a winning combination! Thanks again ladies! You're the best!

Thursday, February 3, 2011

This Purse or That Purse!

Oh dear! I haven't blogged in such a long time. I hit a blogging slump or maybe it was a blogging funk. However, I think I have beat my blogging blues for good. I'm finally back, and I have definitely missed y'all!

With my first post of 2011, I am asking for your help! I have been eyeing a couple of purses lately. They are very similar, but I just can't decide which one I want. I love them both equally, but Dave Ramsey won't let me purchase both!

Cast your vote and help me decide! Should I buy Purse One or Purse Two!

Purse One: From New York and Company for around $30

Purse Two: From J. C. Penney for around $50

I'm a cheap purse kind of girl since I am so rough on my poor purses. I usually try to stick to under $50. Lately, I have had a purse craving for a saddle bag type purse. These two are my top, cheap contenders. I can't wait to see which one you pick!!! Thanks for your help!