Daily Dose of Inspiration

Thursday, April 30, 2009

Cupcake Crazy


http://www.vanillabakeshop.com

I am craving some yummy delicious-ness and all I have are these photos to indulge upon. But first, can I just tell you that these cupcakes look so pretty. They look like little pillows of sweet goodness.

Tuesday, April 28, 2009

Green??....still tasty


I attempted to make a "green" smoothie today made with spinach, banana, frozen berries and water. It was surprisingly tasty, refreshing and light. As you can see the color is nowhere near green. I guess I should have added more of the green stuff (spinach). To be continued...

Sunday, April 26, 2009

What's for dinner?

Had a lovely Sunday morning walk with the family. I just love looking at the gardens around our neighborhood. I would take pictures but I'm afraid they'll think I'm a freak or a stalker. I may have to do a drive by though because I just saw the most amazing vine of climbing roses arched over an entry way.


Today is a lazy day and I feel like cooking a new recipe. I came across an amazing site http://www.smittenkitchen.com/. The recipes range from homemade ice cream to Indian. You must check her out. My hubby walked in on this picture while I was checking out the site and so guess what's for dinner?




Fresh pasta with tomatoes , favas and sausage



(maybe not fresh pasta)

Thursday, April 23, 2009

Happy Birthday!

"Today," laughs the bird, "eat whatever you want. Today no one tells you you cawnt or you shawnt. And, today, you don't have to be tidy or neat. If you wish, you may eat with both hands and both feet. So get in there and munch. Have a big munch-er-oo!
Today is your birthday! Today you are you!
Happy Birthday to You, by Dr Seuss

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Shop Consciously

I love this kit from http://www.blueavocado.com/. Gro-pack grocery kits are genius. I love this in particular because it has a bag for every need. And you can wrap it all up and keep it small and cute in a carry all bag.




Monday, April 20, 2009

Party ideas

I will need party hats like these


Love the fish cupcakes






A banner like this is perfect for the big day and every year after. All I need to do is change the year.




Friday, April 17, 2009

I just heart ART

I just love art. I especially love the creative, genius behind these two pieces. Long gone are the days when we ordered our pictures, ordered black and white, sepia or just plain color. How about this..... meart.com will turn your photos into art. Choose any design, style, color, font, the choices are endless. You are the artist. Check out their gallery. The picture above is an example of Etch me. Very graphic and colorful.
Or how about www.kikiandpolly.com. Take a classic portrait of your loved one and they will create an acrylic painting that incoporates your child's face.
Just in time for mother's day.

Thursday, April 16, 2009

Insomnia

I am so tired. I think I have insomnia. I need to figure out what to do to get some ZZZZ's.

Monday, April 13, 2009

Easter

My daughter checking out her egg stash
My little bunny is 5 months!



Birthday planning



My daughter's birthday is coming up in one month. I need to get the ball rolling and start planning. I am thinking a fish/beach theme. I love party planning. Now let's see.... Need food and cupcakes (YUMMY), activities for the little ones, decorations and favors. This is going to be so much fun.

Thursday, April 9, 2009

White, Clean & Fresh Kitchens
















That is what I love about these kitchens. I love the neutral pallette that you can play with by adding various colors organically. Like a bowl of bright yellow lemons, a vase with soft pick roses or a pot of fresh green herbs.

Monday, April 6, 2009

Mom can't get a break these days

I go to the gym 5 times a week. It's for me and my sanity. I love the way I feel afterwards, the increased energy, the endorphins and that 90 minutes of "me" time. I go to the local Y where they have a wonderful child watch room. The women are friendly and trustworthy. Recently my eldest daughter has been anti gym. I have no idea what or why this happening. Is it the terrible two's, seperation anxiety, initmidation from adults? It breaks my heart to find that she is not engaging with the other children her age. She loved going there before and now this. She is going through something right now cause she's doing it around family members too. So do I not go to the gym now? Others say it's a phase and they will change, others say you deserve this one hour. It's good for you. I don't know what to do.

Friday, April 3, 2009

How to create a cozy reading nook





My daughter has a small playhouse tent that she enjoys for reading and I thought.... I need one of those too..... Ah ha. I will create a cozy reading nook.
Step 1) Look for a quiet place in your home such as a corner or a closet.
Step 2) Find comfortable seating such as a daybed, chair or even big fluffy floor pillows.
Step 3) You'll need a side table to hold your cup of tea, journal or reading material.
Step 4) Lighting is important so make sure you have a small lamp and if you are lucky and have one of these glorious window seats above you can choose to have daylight, just as long as it's not too bright.
Step 5) Cozy up using fuzzy warm blankets and fluffy pillows.
Voila, a cozy retreat for you to relax and daydream.



Thursday, April 2, 2009

Sleeping is so over rated.

Briana woke up last night at 4am but that's okay cause she goes down at 6p, dreamfeed at 10p and up at 4am. I see a light at the end of the tunnel. Most moms would say this is great but I was spoiled by my first daughter. She slept a solid 12 hours at 4 months.
Sleeping without interruptions makes a huge difference in my day. My skin even looks better too. Sleeping is so important for our health, physically and mentally. I am looking forward to dreamy nights.

Wednesday, April 1, 2009

Jumping for joy

My daughter Briana slept thru the night. YIPEE!!!!! I just hope it wasn't an April fool. Crossing my fingers for another dreamy night.