Wednesday, December 20, 2017

Redesigning a Dining Nook

kitchen nook




A few months ago I finally realized where I lived. Meaning, I became aware of the actual real-life size of my cozy home and the needs of my family. Before, I would raid Pinterest and tag all the beautiful rooms that looked nothing remotely similar to my home. Naturally, when I would try and excute a lot of the design ideas they didn't work. Over the years, it has cost me a lot of money. Each year I would pick up tons of inexpensive furniture from IKEA with the hopes that my living room or kids room would look just like the pictures. But, they didn't.

My garage became a house for projects gone wrong. Because I couldn't throw anything away, I might need in the future.  This cycle has been going on for six years, my husband gets anxiety when I'm home alone because he is afraid what he might come home to... lol.

This year, I have decided to do something different. Use things I already own and add sparing to start decorating rooms my family can use. With this being said. I started with the kitchen. My kitchen is a nice size but I thought it was too small for a dining table. In the past, we didn't eat like a normal family. The boys where in high chairs and we ate where we could. But since they are getting older, I would like to start forming the habit of eating at a table. I know I'm late, but hey better late than never, right?

If you've seen this post, you know I decluttered my kitchen a couple months ago. I went a step further to deep clean the kitchen and fix a lot home improvement laziness I had done. Once I had fixed the holes in the walls, got the paint spills off the cabinets and tighten all the nuts and bolts, I was ready to go.

I added two shelves over my communication area to provide storage for my cameras, markers, cookbooks and magazines. This freed up space for me to put my over flow of pots and pans on other shelves. Next, I measured my small nook to see if I could find a table to fit the space. I decided to go with glass because the kitchen is a dark gray and I wanted to keep the illusion of space. I added these Eames-style chairs, I thought were fun and practical for children. I had some old IKEA vases and filled them with bulbs for a inexpensive design element.

And there you have it! My families dining nook that we actually use everyday. I'm finally starting to feel like a grown up that has two kids.
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Monday, December 18, 2017

Creating a playful space

playroom


After years of trying to figure out what to do with a spare bedroom in our basement with decide to turn it into a playroom for the kids. This is where they can go and be kids. A room for them with all their toys, craft table, and entertainment area. I know it's never going to stay clean but at least I can close the door and not look at it. It's has taken me a year of procrastination and the assistance of the Land of Nod to get this room completed.

Since the room is extremely small, a little over 8x10, I didn't want to over whelmed the space with tons of furniture. So, if filled out a questionnaire of the Land of Nod's website and they assisted me with the layout and gave me suggestions on the design of the room. This is a great service because they are extremely detailed and they give you 3D designs to work off.

The designer was able to incorporate my old furniture with a few new items. And they love it!
Everything has place and there is plenty of storage. Which was important because my kids have tons of toys. All of the furniture was purchased from ikea with the exception of a few items from the Land of Nod.

If you have an awkward space and need help, I would suggestion going to the Land of Nod. Its a free service so you don't have anything to lose.
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Friday, December 15, 2017

Last Minute Gifts for the Gracious Host/ Hostess

home decor


During the holidays there are many times where I find myself having to grab an unexpected gift for a party or event. My go-to is usually alcohol but I also like to pick up small home decor items too. Here are some so my staples.



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Wednesday, December 13, 2017

The Road to Self Acceptance


Hello. My name is Jameka and I am a procrastinator. I also like to self-sabatoge.

Now that I got that out the way, I'll turn this in the something more positive and helpful. By realizing these negative attributes about myself, I can try and turn these negative behaviors around. I have goals I am going to achieve and these negative behaviors are an irritation to say the least.

So, how do I stop. For me, I have decided to love. To love myself where I am. By doing this, I am recognizing the importance of time. As far as I know, we only get this one life, so starting the process of loving myself where you are only seems right.

And, when I say love myself that means everything about me. My mind, body and soul are unique to me. The road of self acceptance starts with me.

Stay Positive
Rome was not built in a day. The elements about myself that are negative and destructive took years to build and create. They aren't going to be changed in a day. week. month. year.

This blog has been in the works for the last ten years. I love blogging but haven't mastered consistency. But, I will continue and not give up because this is something I enjoy doing rather I have 1 reader or millions.

Explore
At the age of 37, I am still finding me. I have let other peoples opinions and thoughts mold me into something I am not happy with. Inconsistency and self-doubt will always be there but I have been trying to meet it with intent and fearlessness. I don't know the future but I am gathering and researching to create a map to get me where I want to go. Once I have that map no one will alter my journey.

Ownership
Once I realized how much time was passing and how I only get this one life. I had to take ownership of what I had let happen in my life. For me, I was always a healthy eater. Until I wasn't. I have let my emotions control my diet and most of the time its not healthy. I have taken responsibility for these actions and I am trying to change in my time. I exercise, sometimes but have been eating a lot better. Taking care of me will allow me to take care of my family. Putting yourself first isn't bad because if I am not okay then I can't take care of anyone.

This is a long road I am one, but I am positive. I love my imperfections because they are me.  Do you have any tips for staying positive and on your path?
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Tuesday, December 12, 2017

Gift Guide to Stuffing Her Stocking




My favorite part of the holidays, besides seeing the look on my kids' faces, is seeing what Santa put in my stocking. Growing up, it was my favorite part of Christmas. In my adult years, I have found that its a little difficult for my husband to think of things to fill my stocking. In recent years, I have given him a cheat sheet of inexpensive but fun sweet nothings to fill my stocking with.

I feel like this is a perfect opportunity to pamper your lady. I love receiving beauty products to make me smile. Items like nail polish, facial mask, and mini candles are awesome gifts for any lady. Below I have listed some of my favorite mini gifts for the holidays.



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Thursday, December 7, 2017

Edit #1: Young ones shoe game



I love dressing my kids. Its my favorite thing to do. Especially shoes, my husband has a gym shoe addiction and it has been passed down to my young sons. And, with that, I also keep a look out for shoes that are durable and fun. My boys love to play and I always want their feet to be protected and supported. Below are some of my favorites. I must say as they get older, and more interested in fashion, I love to watch them pick out their favorite shoes and clothes to wear.


kids shoes

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Monday, December 4, 2017

Gifts to Cherish


With the holidays coming, one of the things I love giving and receiving is personalized jewelry. Especially now since I have children, I always carry them with me. I love the idea of the fingerprint jewelry because it is very personal. And its really affordable. If you are looking for something high end Tiffany's is a go to. I have also included a couple small businesses worth checking out.

personalized jewelry
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Friday, December 1, 2017

Updating the Boys Room for the Holidays!






With two boys, I'm always busy. Most of the time the holidays sneak up on me but I have a few plans that always save the day. We always decorate their rooms for the holidays to get them into the spirit and also teach them about the true meaning of holidays spirit. Meaning giving. I use the holidays as a chance to declutter. I make the boys pick out toys they don't play with anymore but are still have life to give to the less fortunate. Also, any clothes that they have out grown, we make a package and get it ready to drop it off to the Goodwill.

Then the fun part begins. Since I already have a camping theme going in there room, I just added a couple mini trees and led lights. I also hung their advent calendar and a Merry Christmas sign. And voila, a holiday inspired kids room.


Kids christmas

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Wednesday, November 29, 2017

Boots for surviving the Midwest Winter in Style



I have been living in Illinois for most of my life. You would think I would be used to the weather changes, but no. But to make it through the Fall and Winter in Chicago, I have assembled my must have Fall/Winter boots.

I started with the Sorel boots because they are functional and have a little style with fur. They are reasonably priced and last forever. Plus, they are super warm and waterproof.

Next, I have my Hunter boots, I have these in two styles: the traditional, I wear around the house and the more modern pair,  I wear when I'm running around town when its cold and rainy.

Dr. Martens, I wear with skinny jeans or dresses for a tomboy rugged look. And, always keep a pair of Timberlands and Uggs in my arsenal.

The bootie is also a nice versatile choice to wear with almost anything in your wardrobe, I those the cognac color for its richness and they haven't failed me.

And, I lastly, I do have a couple pairs of heeled boots for the occasions I have to dress up a little. What boots are you loving? I am always looking for staples to add to my closet.


Winter Boots
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Monday, November 27, 2017

For Him: Gift Guide For Your Guy






This is one of the only times within the year that I get to pamper my husband. I usually take this opportunity to get him things he wouldn't buy himself or I have heard him talk about. He is a total gym rat so everything I get him is usually workout related but I try and mix things up every now and then. Normally we set a budget for gift-giving and I usually buy one expensive gift and build around it with a few more affordable items. Then I fill his stocking with essentials he never buys, hence the facial wash and moisturizer. I have been trying to show him how to take care of his skin...lol

His Favorite Things
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Friday, November 10, 2017

Marble State of Mind



I'm really into marble right now. I have been trying to find ways to interject it into my home decor. Here is some home inspiration I have been looking at. My plan is to have 80% of my home fully decorated by Christmas but there is still a lot to do. I love all the marble accessories that I'm finding for the home.

As you get to know me you will find out I am a bargain hunter. I have good, expensive taste so in order not to go bankrupt I have to find deals. And since, redoing my kitchen is not an option, I love finding kitchen and living room accessories using marble. I have posted some of my finds that are all $25 and under. Enjoy!
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Wednesday, November 8, 2017

Enter the Holidays






We are in full holiday swing here! Usually every year I am very last minute. Meaning putting the tree up on Christmas Eve type last minute but in the past few years I have been trying to change that reputation. We went to County Line Orchard, in Hobart Indiana, it was awesome. The boys picked pumpkins and apples and then got a sugar high off apple cider donuts and hot chocolate.

We missed this last year but caught the last day at County Line Orchard. It was awesome and we will definitely go back next year but probably in September. There is always fun to be had and if you are a last minute mom like me there are a couple orchards still open during the holiday season.

Kuiper's Family Farm
All Seasons Orchard
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Monday, November 6, 2017

Recap of Halloween






Happy Monday! Things are finally slowing down after Halloween. We decided to do something different this year and go trick or treating at the mall. Ford City Mall to be exact. I knew it would be a little chilly and I didn't want the kids out in the cold. And, believe it or not, they had fun. They ran around the mall yelling trick or treat to all the mall employees.

Now with all the the kids candied out, they have been in their costumes all week. And, what better way to end the costume season then with Marvel Live. My oldest, Dominic loves to dress up so he is always in character. Now that Halloween is complete and am going to stay on my A game and get into the holiday spirit. Stay tuned for tons of holiday treats and home decor because that is my happy place.
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Friday, November 3, 2017

Checking In


Hello!

I have been on a small hiatus, but now I'm back with a new sense of motivation  and a lot of cool posts for the holidays. I wasn't able to promise much time to the blog until I completed a few work obligations. And, now that everything is complete, I can get to the fun stuff. Get ready for new posts to get you ready for the holidays!

I hope you are ready, I know I am! New posts starting on the regular Monday. Yay!!!!!!

If there is anything you want to see, hola at your girl.
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Monday, July 17, 2017

Gelato



When one picture can capture your happiness.

Recently, I had the chance to go to Amorino. A wonderful gelato shop downtown. Its a quaint little shop with beautiful open windows and rustic tables and chairs. It didn't bother me that the line was out the door. It actually added to the atomosphere. Hoards of people gathered together in excitement over gelato.

The best part is, they use their gelato as the filling to make macarons. Macarons are my favorite pastry that I never get to eat. There aren't any places on the southside that sell these bomb treats so when I got the opportunity to try these, I ran for it.

It was perfect walking along Chicago's River Walk eating galato and macarons.

What are some good dessert places in your neighborhood?
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Monday, July 10, 2017

Taking Out the Trash

(Photo credit: Mrs. Meyers)
I have been so busy with work, school, and my crazy family; I have let clutter build up in my house. We have a small house so this is a major no-no. So, what's a girl to do? Make a trip to IKEA,  of course. The kitchen was the worst and  since we are on a tight budget. The shopping list was short but it made a big impact on the kitchen and the functionality of how we live. So, check out what we did in the kitchen. If you have a small kitchen like me, here are some things I did to create more space:

1. Check expiration dates. Make sure all the food you have is within the date printed on the products
2. Look at all you cooking products, dishes, and appliances to see what you use on a regular basis. Store these items where they are easy to get to and the other items you use less store higher up. Or over the refrigerator, like I did.
3. Get rid of boxes where ever you can. I bought glass mason jars to store flour, sugar, corn meal, etc.. they are also good to store pasta and rice. Plus, they are really cheap.
4. To make sure your hard work stays organized label your bins and jars so you know what everything is. And, if you want to go above and beyond put the expiration date so you know when to chuck the items. This will help with keeping clutter at bay.

There is tons of inspiration on Pinterest, like the photos above. I also, checked out TameraMowry.com, she has an amazing kitchen. Every one has different needs so use the ideas that fit for you and your kitchen. 
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Thursday, July 6, 2017

New Age Ice Cream Sandwiches

photo courtesy of Domino.com

Who loves ice cream? I do. Especially, ice cream sandwiches!

While perusing one of my favorite websites, I fell upon these fun ice cream sandwich recipes. I loved the idea to remix the traditional ice cream sandwich because my son Dominic loves to cook. Its something fun we can do together and he can be creative with the toppings.

We used chocolate chip ice cream for the filling and chocolate chip-pecan waffle for the outside. If you have little ones running around and want something fun to do on a hot Sunday afternoon, this is a great activity. I found the idea on Domino.
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Wednesday, July 5, 2017

Home Attire





Do you have leisure clothes that you wear around the house or just to run quick errands. When I was growing up the women in my life always had an at-home uniform. My aunts would wear house dresses and my mom would wear jogging suits. For me, all of my home attire made me look like a homeless person. This isn't the best since a) I have a husband, that I would like him to stay interested in me and b) I have two sons. I am the first woman they see. And, for that reason, I want to be the best woman I can be mind, body, and soul. I want my spirit to shine through and not be dampened by my less than desirable attire.

With that being said, I'm not going to be wearing evening gowns and tiaras but I would like to be effortlessly cute, if that's a thing. So, what does that look like? For me, its maxi dresses and jumpsuits. These are items that I can throw on, but if I need to run errands, I can pair them with cute shoes or a jacket and run out the house.

Now that I have the attire down what to do with my unruly hair and this face. Well, I have been looking at head wraps that are a cute accessory to an outfit. I can wear my hair fully up or let it hang a little. I found the cutest ones at TopKnots and if you have a little girl you can get matching. And, as for my face, I usually wear a tinted moisturizer with a good spf. And viola! A cute at-home look that doesn't take more than five minutes. Manicures and pedicures have been downsized to cut downs and shaping in the car. But hey, my digits are always glistening.
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Monday, June 26, 2017

Thursday, June 22, 2017

Tuesday, June 20, 2017

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