Thursday, December 17, 2009

Confessional Thursday

Today's confession is about wanting to sell everything and RUN! FAR AWAY!


Some days I wake up in this -40 (Celcius) weather and I just want to sell everything we own and move with Mr.BB to South Africa, Egypt, Antigua, or ANYWHERE but here! Red Deer has a population of 80,000 people. In the winter it's a little more (like 110,000) because people come here to work in the oil field. This is the 3rd largest city in the province of Alberta and it's a HOLE! Calgary and Edmonton are both 1 1/2 hours in the opposite direction, so that helps, but who wants to drive that far to go eat at a decent restaurant? I wish we lived in either city, I would be a little more content. I guess I shouldn't complain because I have my job that I enjoy and it's not like we are stranded in the middle of no where, it's just really hard when you have no friends or family around.


There is no Taco Bell here. How the HELL is there not a Taco Bell here, but in cities that are smaller there are?! Makes no sense. There is also no Harvey's (which is a delicious Canadian burger place) or Red Lobster (which is my favorite)!


We plan on moving to Florida in 2011 (SO far away) if all goes well with Mr.BB's spouse visa appication (or whatever that's called). I can't wait.

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

Our X-Mas Gift!

It just arrived at my work! Josh and I got a DSLR for X-mas (we justify it as a wedding expense ;) lol)! It was on sale for boxing week (which is Canada's version of Black Fri) which isn't until next week, but the guy gave us the deal this week and threw in some goodies! Meet the Olympus E-620!

Source


Can't wait to get home and play with it!!! =)
Going back to the store today to pick up another lens for it cause it's on SUPER sale (like $300 off)!

On the first day of Christmas....

I gave to my true loooooove....


Yes, I am a big suck who definately have her fiancee the 12 days of Christmas! Not anything like the real 12 days of Christmas, but none the less I like my list of things. Today is day 3, but here is a re-cap of the things I'm giving him:


  1. A House Coat
  2. 2 pack of razors
  3. 3 pack of Kinder eggs (little chocolate eggs with white chocolate inside and a little surprise in the middle! I hate them but Josh loves them)
  4. 4 mini shot glasses (maybe I'll get those ones that have liquor already inside of them) or 4 beer glasses
  5.  5 fingered gloves (not that I know of any 1-4 or 6+ fingered gloves)
  6. 6 pack of boxers
  7. 7 lotto tickets
  8.  8 yummy cookies
  9. 9 minute sexy little show ;)
  10.  10 minute massage
  11.  CD with 11 songs
  12. 12 pack of Budweiser
 I hope he likes it, I think it's a pretty good list if I do say so myself! I've never done the whole 12 days of Christmas, so I thought it would be nice to do something different this year considering what a crazy non-traditional kind of year that we have had. =)

Monday, December 7, 2009

Featured Bride Blogger!!!!!!!!!

YAY! I am a featured blogger on the Weddzilla Blog now! Check out my intro post:

Hey there everyone! My name is Ashley and I am a 22 year old bride-to-be! We are currently living in Red Deer, Alberta (Yes, Canada) and are trying to plan a Destination Wedding for October 15, 2010 in the Dominican Republic! We were going to get married on 10-10-10 but the resorts don't do weddings on Sunday's, so we just chose the following Friday because the 10-9-10 would have been a holiday weekend in Canada (which adds up the $ for flight prices).

Josh and I met in Karate when we were 14, so sometimes I will refer to him as Mr. Black Belt, and call my wedding stories "The Adventures of Mrs. Black Belt" because our lives have been nothing but an amazing adventure. We are a pretty quirky couple, and we have quite the sense of humor. We quote movies and songs all of the time, to the point where sometimes I think that we are that annoying couple that people just want to barf by just listening to or watching us, but I'm just fine with that. That's who we are, the couple who is so in tune with one another that it makes people physically ill. I LOVE IT!





We are very laid back, and like to do things a little "differently" than most. I like unique things, funky color palettes, sparkly things, kitties and puppies, Detroit Red Wings, punk rock (and all other kinds of music), DIY, meeting new people, and well writing (otherwise I would be kind of a boring blogger... never writing anything)!



I know from listening to other brides about their weddings that things can't always turn out perfect or just as planned. Sometimes there will be that one hitch, but the most important thing is the two people getting married. I actually find life rather beautiful with the imperfections that it throws at us. They make us grateful for the things we have, the perfection that we find in our love for one another, and the chance that we had for living today because we are never promised tomorrow.


View it here=)

Friday, December 4, 2009

Recipes with Kraft Dinner!

I absolutely love Mac N Cheese. It was a staple at our house when I was little, and I still love it to this day! There are so many dishes you can make with it! Here are a few examples:



Mac N Cheese Salad: (my cousin made this, I wasn't a fan but it was fast and just ok)


1 (7 1/4 oz.) pkg. Kraft macaroni and cheese
10 oz. pkg. frozen peas (thawed and cooked)
1 med. tomato, chopped
3/4 c. mayonnaise
1/2 c. sliced celery
1/2 c. chopped onion
1/2 tsp. salt
6 hard-cooked eggs, chopped (less may be used)

Prepare mix according to directions on package. Add frozen peas. Stir and add rest of ingredients. Chopped green pepper may be added, if desired. Chill before serving.


Tuna Mac N Cheese: (I love making this when Mr.BB isn't home. He hates tuna)

1 box Kraft's macaroni & cheese dinner
1 can tuna, drained
1 sm. onion, chopped
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1 can Rotel tomatoes

Cook Mac N Cheese as directed. Add tuna (prepared how you like) and onion. Thin the cream of mushroom soup with milk and add it in the mix with the tomatoes. Bake at 350 for 30 minutes. I usually leave it uncovered.


Tex Mex Mac N Cheese: (Mr.BB's fav.)


1 lb. extra lean ground beef
1 pkg. Macaroni and Cheese
1 can chili style stewed tomatoes, undrained
1 cup water
1 cup Tex Mex Shredded Cheese

Brown meat in large nonstick skillet; drain. Stir in Macaroni, tomatoes and water. Bring to boil. Simmer on medium-low heat 15 min., stirring occasionally. Add Cheese Sauce Mix; stir until blended. Sprinkle with shredded cheese. Top with shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes and avocado slices, sliced olives, salsa or sour cream.

Mac N Cheese Beef Casserole:

1 pkg. Macaroni and Cheese
1 lb.lean ground beef
1 can Italian-style stewed tomatoes, undrained
1/2 tsp. dried oregano leaves
1/2 cup Double Cheddar Shredded Cheese


Heat oven to 400ºF. Prepare Kraft Dinner as directed on package, omitting the butter. Meanwhile, brown meat in large nonstick skillet; drain. Stir in tomatoes and oregano; cook until heated through, stirring occasionally. Combine KD and meat mixture; spoon into 9-inch square baking dish. Top with Cheddar. Bake 10 min. or until Cheddar is melted and casserole is heated through.

Chili & Cheese:

Chili Recipe:

1/2 to 1 lb of bacon
2 lbs of ground beef
2 packets of McCormick (or other brand) chili seasoning
1 large onion chopped
2 bell peppers (I prefer a yellow and a red) chopped
2 cans diced tomatoes (I prefer the Hunt's Fire roasted )
1 can red kidney beans
1 can light colored kidney beans
1 can of "chili beans" (if you can't find this just use another can of kidney)
1 to 2 cans of plain tomato sauce (I like thick chili so I use 1 can but if you like it soupier use more)

Fry bacon. Drain MOST of the grease but leave enough to coat the pan , throw in the chopped peppers saute for a few minutes , then add onions , saute a few more minutes until soft, add in ground beef , season with garlic powder , salt and pepper to taste, and then 1/2 a packet of chili seasoning and cook through . Add ground beef mixture and all other ingredients including the bacon crumbled up or broken in to small pieces to a large pot or crock pot .... simmer on stove top on low for an hour or in a crockpot on low for 3 hours.
Then, cook KD as directed. Add into Chili. Top with sour cream.


Cheeseburger Mac N Cheese:


3 cups frozen vegetable blend with broccoli, carrots and cauliflower
1 pkg. KRAFT DINNER Macaroni and Cheese
3/4 cup skim milk
1/4 cup Italian Dressing
3/4 lb. extra lean ground beef, cooked, drained
3/4 cup Part Skim Mozzarella Shredded Cheese, divided

Preheat oven to 375°F. Place frozen vegetables in colander in sink. Cook Macaroni as directed on package. Pour cooked macaroni over vegetables in colander to drain and quickly thaw vegetables. Return macaroni and vegetables to saucepan. Add Cheese Sauce Mix, milk and dressing; mix well. Add cooked meat and 1/4 cup of the shredded cheese; mix well. Spoon into 2-L casserole dish; cover with lid. Bake 35 min. or until heated through. Uncover; top with remaining shredded cheese. Bake an additional 3 to 4 min. or until cheese is melted.


Mac N Cheese Lasagna:

1 pkg. Macaroni and Cheese
1/2 lb. extra lean ground beef
1-1/2 cups pasta sauce
1 cup Mozzarella Shredded Cheese
2 Tbsp. Parmesan Grated Cheese

Heat oven to 350°F. Prepare Kraft Dinner using the Sensible Solution directions on package. Meanwhile, brown meat in skillet. Spoon 1/2 of Dinner into lightly greased 8-inch square baking dish; top with layers of 1/2 each sauce, meat and mozzarella. Repeat layers. Sprinkle with Parmesan. Bake 20 min. or until heated through.


Chicken Caccitore and Cheese:

1 tsp. oil
1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts, chopped
1 small onion, chopped
2   zucchini, chopped
1 Tbsp. chopped fresh oregano
1 can stewed tomatoes
1 can water (use empty can from tomatoes)
1 box Macaroni and Cheese

Heat oil in large skillet on medium-high heat. Add chicken; cook 5 min. or until browned. Add vegetables, oregano, tomatoes, water and Pasta. Bring to boil; simmer partially covered, 12 min. or until pasta is tender.Stir in Cheese Sauce; cook until heated through.

"Goulash"

1 box Mac N Cheese
1 can/bottle spaghetti sauce
Ground Beef
Onion

Put some oil in a pan, and on medium heat cook the onion and toss in some garlic if you wish. Then brown the ground beef. Once cooked, drain the remaining grease. Add in pasta sauce. In another pot cook Mac N Cheese as directed. Add mac N cheese to the pasta sauce. Serve with garlic toast.

Tuesday, December 1, 2009

Confessional Tuesday

I am a makeup whore. I think I own like $2,000 worth of makeup...maybe even more. The sad thing is that I use it ALL the time except for when I go to work (because well who wants to get up an HOUR earlier than normal just to put on makeup). So normally my friends see me in makeup, and at work they see me in no makeup/almost none. I might occassionally (if I have time) put on a sweep of mineral powder foundation (Lise Watier - Poudre Mineraliste... a nice Canadian brand, which is like that Bare Minerals stuff which I have yet to try) and some blush (usually Nars - Orgasm). SO I look like this when I am at work (minus the super childish shades I was trying on at Michael's):


The on the weekend I look like this:

And when we're doing something special I look like this (but just a little more jazzed up):


You are probably thinking... ok so what was the point of that? It leads into the second part of my confession: I am a lazy ass! I should look great every day, but I am always too tired to get up early so I can put makeup on because I have to do homework until 11 PM the night before.

The Solution:

New Years Resolution - Make more time for ME! Stop worrying about everything and everyone else and worry more about myself. Both 2008 and 2009 were all about helping out in the community and volunteering (which I wont stop completely because I love doing it), putting up with peoples BS (which I mean... they are family... so I guess it's expected), and just generally about everyone else but me. SO 2010 will be about my health (weight and sanity....hahaha), helping me (school, work, etc), and our wedding. Everyone elses drama can take the back burner for the year while I deal with my own crap. =)




Monday, November 30, 2009

Making Someone Elses Holiday Better

This holiday season as many struggle to make a living and afford to buy their own family something for Christmas, we have decided to make our first  "just the two of us" about helping those in need. Josh is working on Christmas Eve and part of the day on Christmas Day, and I will be at the Food Bank volunteering while my work is closed for two weeks. I also was given this address so that we can write a Christmas card to soldiers who have defended (my and soon to be Josh's) country day and night, and are now recovering. If you would like to write to them you can send them a card to:

Holiday Mail for Heroes
PO BOX 5456
Capitol Heights, MD 20791-5456

 

 Please help make someone's holiday extra bright this year. =) 

Friday, November 27, 2009

OoOh My Clutch is here!!!

I'm so excited, I am getting all my goodies every day!! I purchased a clutch off of Etsy that I have been eyeing for like 6 months, and I just got it today! It's gorgeous and it was such a quick and easy transaction. I reccomend her to anyone!

Boneca Linda - $50

Thursday, November 26, 2009

Let Us Give Thanks!

In honor of Thanksgiving today in my motherland, I found these hilarious sayings that are only appropriate at Thanksgiving (or I guess Christmas):

1. Talk about a huge breast!
2. Tying the legs together keeps the inside moist.
3. It's Cool Whip time!
4. If I don't undo my pants, I'll burst!
5. That's one terrific spread!
6. I'm in the mood for a little dark meat.
7. Are you ready for seconds yet?
8. Its a little dry, do you still want to eat it?
9. Just wait your turn, you'll get some!
10. Don't play with your meat.
11. Just spread the legs open & stuff it in.
12. Do you think you'll be able to handle all these people at once?
13. I didn't expect everyone to come at once!
14. You still have a little bit on your chin.
15. How long will it take after you stick it in?
16. You'll know it's ready when it pops up.
17. Wow, I didn't think I could handle all of that!
18. That's the biggest one I've ever seen !
19. I like it a little greasy.
20. Just get your whole fist in there.

Happy Turkey Day! =)

Birdcage Veil is HERE!

Here is my black mini birdcage veil! I was so happy when I got it in the mail today. I'll be wearing this for my boudoir pictures! <3

Please excuse my lack of makeup and my exhausted look.

From Etsy seller TessaKim - $24

Mr.BB's Tie & Gift

He wanted something more his "style" for his tie/shoes. He wants to wear converse shoes as soon as I told him I wanted to wear them. =) So I found him a wicked tie (thanks to my beautiful friend Casey) on Etsy! We just got it yesterday and I surprised him with it! He loved it and was so excited about it! Here it is:

Etsy seller RokGear - $25

Super quick transaction, and it arrived very fast! It's just perfect!


And for part of his wedding gift I got him a silver guitar pick (engraved). He just picked up the guitar again for the first time in about 5 years, so I just wanted to give him something that expresses my love for him and our mutual love of music (like our tattoo's do). We always say "To infinity and beyond" when we say I love you. Toy Story is his favorite Disney movie ever. =)

From Etsy seller PinkCheckersDesign - $27 (custom)

I Love Pretty Dresses!

I just bought this dress on Ebay. It's a Betsey Johnson "tea party" dress and I am in LOVE!!! The seller claims it is authentic and shows pictures of the attached tags, etc. However I have my doubts that it is authentic (price is really low, it's from overseas, etc). I don't care though because it's so adorable! I didn't buy it for the "label" I just bought it because it's one of the prettiest little black dresses I have ever laid eyes on! I'm going to wear it for New Years! Hopefully my fat butt will fit in it. I have been working my a$$ off to loose weight, but I seem to be stuck and it really sucks. It's a size 12, so I don't know how well that's going to work, but if I keep working on my weight (eating right, ecxersize, drink tons of water, cut out salt, carbs and junk) and I still can't fit in it, then I will just wear it another time. Fingers crossed though that I can loose that little bit of weight that I need to get there.

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Mr. Black Belt: In the Paper

Aw this was a really proud moment for me. Mr. Black Belt (Future Husband Extraordinaire!) works for the Red Deer Food Bank. He was in the warehouse before, but now he is their full time truck driver. He was on the front page of our local paper this morning!



Unfortunately, it's an article expressing how hard the Food Banks in our city, and surrounding areas are being hit by the economy. The demand in the Food Bank here has risen 80% since last year. It's so hard right now for some families. When I volunteer there, I feel like I am helping, but I still wish there was more that I could do. We donate whenever we can, and I volunteer whenever I have a spare moment, but I wish we could give them a whole truck load of food. I will just keep wishing that donors and the community will continue to give so generously to the Food Bank, and know that we are helping people. Here is the article in the paper:

Pressure on Food Bank

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Kissing, Dating, and Cohabitating - OH MY [Part 2]

Finally, I have a moment where I can sit down! These last few days have been just insane for me. SO now I can show you what prompted me to write Part 1 of this! I read two articles that may or may not be very valid. The first one is just hilarious. In no part of his article does he actually have any REAL reasons why people should not cohabitate, but it was quite an entertaining read. Here is the article: Do Not Cohabitate.

The second on actually has some data to prove their theory and some of the numbers behind how many couples that live together before marriage don't actually end up getting married. Here is that article: Science Blog.

So now that you have read "the facts", what is your opinion? Do you already live together with your significant other? Do you think that if you had, that you wouldn't end up together? Or would you be that 40% that would get married after living together?

Kissing, Dating and Cohabitating - OH MY [Part 1]

In my very personal opinion, I MUST partake in the cohabitation with a partner if things get very serious. I am a little bit of a control freak, so go figure I like to know what that person is like in their normal day to day life before I could possibly one day marry that person. As much as you can go over and see what they are like while you visit, it's typically a completely different story once you live with them. I had a boyfriend once who was SO neat and tidy, to a point of almost being anal about it (a glass on the table without a coaster is a NO FLY zone for him). I dated him for a few months, and then we broke up for whatever reason that I don't remember (we had just finished High School) but remained friends for a while. His next girlfriend (after about a month of dating) was let go from her job, and was "forced" to move in with him (because she didn't want to live at home where there was rules of not coming in at 4 AM drunk...). In the month that followed... not only did I find out that he would just shove his clothes into the closet in the living room when company came over, but he would put his dirty dishes in the BATHTUB, because well who would go over to someone's house and look in their bathtub (it may possibly be something that I do now with some friends...don't judge)? YUCKERS! Anyways, moral of the story is that some people put a "mask" on their habits (good or bad) with most people. This story has traumatized me, and thus has lead me to live with three of my boyfriends in my life. I will leave their anonymity for the sake of the story. Before I go ahead, I will just mention that I value every relationship that I have ever and will ever have (friends, family, boyfriends, fiancee, husband, etc). I believe every relationship teaches you valuable lessons about life, and more importantly.. about yourself. I never regret any relationships, ever. Not even the one hour one. HAHA!

1) Mr. Crappy Tire - Dated for 6 months total, moved in at month 4 (he had financial problems because of school and I felt bad... STUPID ASHLEY). We lived together for 2 months (in separate rooms though) before I found his wrappers/cans/bottles UNDER his bed. Needless to say in that moment, I figured out why he always wanted to come into my room to watch a movie. I will also mention that cohabitation does not always lead to sex, I never had sex with Mr. CT. It all depends on your values and self control. That being said, I personally have no problem with pre-marital sex (to a certain extent. Like you probably aren't prepared to have sex at the age of 13 because you wouldn't be able to handle the consequences that come along with having sex, like pregnancy. We shall save this topic for another day).

2) Mr. Introvert - If any of you have ever met me or know me even in the slightest, you would know that an introvert and I just don't belong together. It took me a little over a year to figure that one out. We dated for about 10 months before moving in together (this time it was my financial problems that lead us to that point) and in the 4 months that followed, I learned all of his traits, thoughts, etc. Most of them drove me absolutely insane. I could never spend the rest of my life living with someone like this. He is a great person and he will make someone so very happy, but that someone just didn't happen to be me. His incessant whining; leaving his computer, Xbox, and every other light on in the house; his less than terrific hygiene; his ability to suck the fun out of everything; etc. Sorry, just not for me. I didn't sign up to be someones mommy. He was as sweet as pie though, and he always put me before himself. I really wish him all the happiness in the world, even if he hates me. (OOPS.)

3) Mr. Black Belt - a.k.a. Mr. Right for Me Yes Indeed - With Mr. BB, what I saw was what I got, and boy was I happy about that. We have been together for 3 and a half years, and have lived together for the better part of two of those years. We have been friends for at least 8 years now, so I always knew he was the one for me right from the start. With Mr. BB, I have found minimal things that changed in the time we have lived together. In some respects, the changes that did happen were for the better. I was pleasantly surprised that his cooking was good, he is cleaner than I am in some respects, he helps with laundry/dishes (when I'm really busy with school and work, he does them ALL the time), etc.

Part 2 tomorrow... what inspired me to write all of this kerfluffle!

Monday, November 16, 2009

The Rest of Our Gorgeous E-Pictures! ♥

If you are at all interested in seeing more of our engagement session, please feel free to browse them on Facebook. Click here! We just love how these came out, especially the grainy ones! They just look so old and delicate. Here are some of my favorites (not including the teasers that we got):









Monday, November 9, 2009

PaperCake Design Customized Map Giveaway!

PaperCake Designs over on Weddzilla and are giving away a customized map for your venue. Check out their website for gorgeous invitations and stationary!

Click on the link to find out more information: Wedzilla and PaperCake Design

There are several ways to enter and win!

Engagement Teasers!! [ROUND 2]

I can't express how happy we are with these!! Kelsey is a truly gifted woman, she takes photography to the next level. Kelsey is not just capturing perfect moments in time, but also capturing the emotions that comes along with those perfect little moments. She makes you feel comfortable right from the start, and the poses don't make you feel like you are forcing something unnatural. Kelsey's creativity is more than what we could have ever asked for, we love every single picture! THANKS!







Thursday, November 5, 2009

Pasta Sauce Avec Bacon!

Delicious new recipe!!! MMMM BACON!

300g Minced Meat (preferably beef)
5 pcs Streaky Bacon, thin strips
2 tins Skinned Tomatoes, chopped/mashed
1 clove Garlic, chopped
2 pcs Yellow/Large Onions, diced
1 pcs Carrot, diced
2 pcs Celery, diced
Red Wine, to taste (normally put 1/4 of a cup)
Salt & Pepper, to taste
Parsley for garnishing

1. Brown bacon in pan.
2. Add onion and saute till caramelize.
3. Add garlic once you can aromatic add in minced meat. Saute for another 2-3 minutes
4. Add tomatoes and red wine. Simmer for 30 minutes.
5. Add carrots and simmer for another 15 minutes.
6. Boil spaghetti in salted water for about 15 minutes. Drain.
7. To serve, on spaghetti, put some celery and pour hot sauce on top. This will then retain the crunchiness of the celery when you bite into it yet, does not taste raw. Then garnish with bit of parsley.


Taste it, you will LOVE it if you like bacon!

Monday, November 2, 2009

Gifts for Your Husband on the Wedding Day

There are tons of gifts that you can give your Husband on the day of the wedding, and they don't have to cost an arm and a leg. I was working on my gifts for Josh this weekend, so I just thought I would post some of the ideas that I thought of while racking my brain for the perfect gift. Please feel free to post more!

*Guitar (Electric or Acoustic) - Perfect if he wants to pick up a new instrument, or just really enjoys music. Tons of articles and books to help you out. Also, don't be afraid to browse in stores, and ask a sales associate. I find that if you go into a small business music store, they are much more personalized and knowledgeable. Acoustic guitars can range anywhere from $50 (used) to $200 (brand new). Electric guitars can range from $100 - $20,000 (depending on the brand, quality, etc.).

*Sterling Silver Guitar Pick (Personalized) - I'm getting this for my fiancee, will post pictures and a review of the vendor when I get it in! $27 plus shipping.

Source


* Boudoir Album - This is more on the sexual side of things, but can be an incredible gift that he can keep forever. The side of you that only he will get to see, captured in sultry photographs and all wrapped up in a pretty little package. These can range from $100 - $700, all depending on the photographer, outfits, hair, makeup, etc. Very well worth it though, because you also get to see and feel how gorgeous you are!

* Digital picture frame - I think this is a great gift for anyone, because you can take it anywhere and have your pictures with you! These have dropped in price and can range from $50 - $200.

* Concert/Sporting Events tickets - What better gift than something that he watches on TV anyways?! You can get tickets to events for super cheap, or you could go as far as to order season tickets to his favorite sports team (which is actually cheaper than I thought it would be).

* Gaming Console - This could be for a beginner or an avid gamer. The beauty of it is that sometimes games will come out that I like to play, so we both use it quite often. It also doubles as a DVD player because our PS3 comes with a Blu-Ray player in it! Here is a guide to all of the systems and what they do.

* Stocks/Savings Bonds - You are investing in your future together, but you could do it in a fun way! A friend of mine got her husband a share of Marvel (comic books) stocks. There are stocks for almost everything imaginable. Go to a broker to find out more information about your options.

Other items: Watch, iPod, mini-moon, slide show for the wedding, custom cuff links, custom Converse Shoes, etc.

Saturday, October 31, 2009

To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yeild.

I saw an amazing movie this weeked, called One Week (with the ever sexy Joshua Jackson). It was very inspirational and eye opening. Not that I didn't know and think these things before, but it's just one of those movies that remind you what to live for. It reminds you why you are on this gorgeous earth, and it just gives you that subtle push to go out and LIVE. There is a quote from the movie that is basically the way that people should live their lives by:

"When you get those rare moments of clarity, those flashes when the universe makes sense, you try desperately to hold on to them. They are the life boats for the darker times, when the vastness of it all, the incomprehensible nature of life is completely illusive. So the question becomes, or should have been all a long... What would you do if you knew you only had one day, or one week, or one month to live. What life boat would you grab on to? What secret would you tell? What band would you see? What person would you declare your love to? What wish would you fulfil? What exotic locale would you fly to for coffee? What book would you write?"

A truly remarkable Canadian movie, with gorgeous Canadian scenery.

Friday, October 30, 2009

My HOT B-Pics Shoes!!!

Just bought these friggin hot shoes today for my boudoir pictures (and special occassions)! They are by Guess, they are called Chief (and wow they are the BOSS of shoes). I got them from Endless.com for $109.95 (on the Guess website they are $135)! Free overnight/return shipping! I can't wait until my mommy can send them to me (I live in Canada, and they only ship to the states). YAY!

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Halloween Movie Marathon!

This year we're having a super awesome Halloween marathon at home while we hand out candy to the kids in the neighborhood. This is just a good list of movies I like to watch around this time of year:

  • It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown
  • Hocus Pocus
  • The Nightmare Before Christmas
  • Casper
  • The Addams Family
  • Halloween Town
  • Harry Potter (all of them)
  • Practical Magic
  • The Haunting
  • Dawn of the Dead
  • Shaun of the Dead
  • Donnie Darko
  • Beetlejuice
  • Sleepy Hollow
  • The Witches of Eastwick
  • The Covenent
  • Urban Legend
  • Candyman
  • Psycho
  • Scream
  • Scary Movie
  • The Fog
  • Halloween
  • Devil's Rejects
  • House of 1,000 corpses
  • The Omen
  • The Blaire Witch Project
  • Dracula
  • Phantom of the Opera
  • House on Haunted Hill
  • Texas Chainsaw Massacre
  • Final Destination (all)
  • The Shining
  • Corpse Bride
  • The Crow
  • The Craft
  • Ghost Busters
  • 13 Ghosts
  • Haunting in Connecticut
  • The Uninvited
  • The Unborn
  • SAW (all)
Please feel free to let me know what I missed!! Have a happy and safe Halloween!

Sunday, October 25, 2009

♥ To Write Love On Her Arms ♥

"To Write Love on Her Arms is a non-profit movement dedicated to presenting hope and finding help for people struggling with depression, addiction, self-injury and suicide. TWLOHA exists to encourage, inform, inspire and also to invest directly into treatment and recovery.

To Write Love On Her Arms Day is a day where anyone can write the words love on their arms, to support those who are fighting against depression and those who are trying to stop cutting.

Please help and write love on your arms, doesn't matter if you are a girl or a boy, the more people who write love on their arms and upload pictures, the more support and awareness twloha will spread.

Its quite simple to help out, as twloha is a non profit organization, so the simple words of "LOVE" on your arms, can already benefit and raise awareness, as your friends will ask why do you have love written on your arms, and you would tell them its twloha day, and how writing love on your arms is actually helping a cause."

To read more, please visit their Facebook page.

Such Pretty Little Things ♥

If you can't tell by now, I am absolutely obsessed (and quite good at it if I do say so myself) with finding adorable Etsy shops! Tonight, the spot light is on a very talented fellow Canadian named Jaymie (I love how she spells her name)!

I had a quick email interview with Jaymie and she had this to say "I am located in Calgary, AB. My background is in visual communications and I work as an art director full-time for an online/digital agency in town. My free time has been fully dedicated to weddings for a few years now, starting with my own wedding which was last year. I made my jewelry and hair accessories for my wedding and then everything just snowballed from there. I opened my etsy shop, Lottie-Da Designs, early this year and am loving every minute of it. I am inspired by 'glamorous vintage' - everything sparkly and elegant. I try to create items that are a little different than mainstream. The best part of Lottie-Da Designs is hearing back from the delighted brides who wore my piece on their big day!"

This is the gorgeous piece I will be getting for my big day, as I am what they call a tiara-phobic.

Lace Feather Bridal Headband Hair Accessory - Ivory




Some of her other lovely pieces:

Rhinestone Ribbon Bridal Headband - Anya




Rhinestone Bridal Ribbon Headband - Eva




Chantilly Pearl and Crystal Bridal Earrings (matching necklace sold separately)




To view more of her amazing work, please visit her Esty shop: Lottie-Da!

Pandemic? I call BULL SHIT.

Canada spent $300 Million on getting the H1N1 influenza A virus vaccination. They say that it has moved into the second pandemic phase. Personally I'm not into vaccinations at all for my own personal reasons and moral woes, so I will not be getting the vaccine. NO THANKS. I have this whole theory about how this is just a conspiracy, but I will leave that for another day. How about you, will you be getting the shot?

Read more about it here:
Canada enters 2nd wave of H1N1

Saturday, October 24, 2009

DIY Photobooth!

I love the idea behind the photobooth's at weddings, but I dislike the price tag that comes along with them. Some rental units can cost an average of $1,000 and up! Why would I want to spend $1,000 on a photobooth alone?!
DO IT YOURSELF! It can save you hundreds! If this is something that sounds of interest to you, I dug up a couple of websites that might help you in your quest for a fun item at you wedding, that won't break the bank. Most of them have suggestions on which softwear to use, what kind of set up you'll need in terms of a camera (you can go polaroid or DSLR), ideas for props, etc.

Life With Leo - Do It Yourself Photobooth

DIY Photobooth Using MacBook & Ikea Curtains

Instructables - DIY Photobooth

Breeze Systems - DSLR Remote Softwear

The Wedding Lens - Photobooth at the Wedding Reception

The Things We Think But Do Not Say - How to Make a Photobooth

Happy DIY-ing!

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

Tag! I'm It!!

Thank you so much to my lovely pal Pamela @ Westside Wedding for choosing me as one of her recipients of the The Kreativ Bloggers Award. So awesome to know someone reads what you have to say ;) Thanks again girl ♥!



To continue in the spirit and tradition of the award, I am going to write 7-10 (I pick 7...lol) facts about me and then pass the award on to seven other "Kreativ" bloggers!

  1. I have a first degree black belt in Shorin Ryu karate. I started when I was 5 and got my black belt when I was 16. I took a little bit of a break in between, but I still love it with all of my heart.
  2. I can't help but always think that no body likes me. It's just my defense mechanism that I have had since I was as little as I can remember. If no one likes me, I just don't care and if I don't care I can't get hurt. It took me a long long time to learn that my fiancee isn't going anywhere.
  3. I eat every item of food on my plate one at a time. I can not mix the foods, nor can they be touching one another. It grosses me out, and I refuse to eat a random pea if it has touched my mashed potatoes (just an example).
  4. I love smartfood popcorn, and every other kind of popcorn.
  5. I have hypoglycemia, I hate it.
  6. I love having a blog, even if no one were to read it. There is nothing that I enjoy more in the world that writing and singing.
  7. When I have a down in the dumps kind of week, month, year, whatever I always watch Dawson's Creek from start to finish. Every season and every episode. <3
Now I pass the torch to 7 others.
  1. Lost in White Chiffon
  2. A Texan in Oz
  3. My Dream Ring
  4. Bride Sophisticate
  5. The Nearlyweds
  6. Pink Design Events
  7. Kandee the Make-Up Artist

I look forward to reading all of your posts and beautiful inspiration, ladies! Don't forget to pass on the LOVE...

Tag... now you're it!

So Uniquely in L-♥-V-E!

I stumbled across the amazing work of Tessa Kim on Etsy the other day, and I was just amazed!! She has some of the most beautiful work that is affordable for the frugal and chic bride.

Tessa Kim birdcage veils and hair accessories is based out of southern California. All of the collections are completely handmade with the highest quality materials yet still priced very responsibly. The inspiration for the lines are a mix of vintage glam with a modern twist, many items contain vintage accent pieces and are each unique. The line contains birdcage veils, tulle veils, feather fascinators, flower fascinators, vintage lace necklaces, dress sashes, corsages, boutonnieres, and much more to come.


Here is the piece that I'm eying for my B-Pics session. The Black Mini Birdcage Veil! $24!!!!!!


Birdcage Veil with Magnolia fascinator set- the Delilah - $64




Peacock and Sequins Fascinator - $49


Feather Flower Fascinator - $34 (single flower)




This has to be one of my favorite items in her shop, it's just stunning!

Assorted Feather Headband with pearl button - $49




For more gorgeous and exquisite statement pieces, please visit the Tessa Kim Etsy Shop. Happy buying!

Monday, October 19, 2009

Oh My ♥ Luscious Lovelies ♥ by Bleu Garter

I never ever though I wanted a garter.... until now. I used to think, how silly why buy a garter to toss away? Why spend the money. Let me tell you, this is NOT something I will be tossing! I will keep this and hopefully pass it on to a future daughter for her wedding day.

Handcrafted in California from fine silks and antique laces, you can pick one of the several gorgeous styles of garters by Bleu. You can also make your very own custom garter! Choose the design, fabric, and colors... add embellishments such as bows, embroidery, or jewelry... make your garter a keepsake.

This is the one I will be getting. The fabulous Versailles from the Paris 1928 collection.


Some of her other stunning garters and collections include:

Paris 1928

Marseille



Strasbourg



Moulin Rouge

Hot Tamale



Sweetart



Head over to Bleu Garters to order your delicious garter, or to see what they can do for you as a custom order! <3