Posts Tagged ‘Spring’
Hello friends and welcome to another episode of You Choose the Shoes. It has been exactly one month since the last feature but as I previously stated, things have gotten a lot more busier with ABlake Enterprises so #YCTS will become a once per month post.
With this outfit I am featuring an “oldie but goodie” pair of slip-ons by Jessica Simpson and a new pair from Avon which I think you may like.
It was a sunny Sunday early in April so my son and I decided to drive the Kia Sorento that I was reviewing from DriveShop through town. He actually didn’t want to hang out with his mother, but obliged me if only for an hour. Hubby took these pictures before we left and then he and I headed out for part of the day.
The yellow tote is also from Avon and the Statement Necklace was purchased from Walmart.
Speaking of Avon, I received an email from them wishing me a Happy 6th Anniversary, however, it has definitely been longer than 6 years because I remember that I started selling in the early 2000’s, but according to their records it has only been 6 years.
Anywho, since I don’t have many customers and don’t make a profit I guess it doesn’t matter how many years I have been with Avon. I do however, like buying Avon’s clothing, shoes and accessories so I will stick around for at least another 6 years.
What do you think of my latest purchase?
I should do more pattern mixing but am not very comfortable in doing so, however, I think this worked, what do you think?
Okay, which pair of shoes do you like with this maxi skirt?
The most popular pair from last month were the strappy sandals.
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Hello Friends and Happy Fri-Yay!
It is now officially Spring so this is going to be the last of the heavy Crock Pot meals. It’s time to start eating lighter as we begin to shed the layers of clothing.
This Friday Foodie Feature was made before St. Patrick’s Day which is why I didn’t cook Corned Beef and Cabbage on Monday – too much red meat is not good for you.
Ingredients:
- Beef Brisket
- Medium Onion – sliced
- Liquid Smoke 1/2 tsp
- South African Smoke Seasoning 1/4 tsp
- BBQ Sauce
- Red Potatoes – 4-5 small diced
- 1/4 cup water
Place brisket in resealable bag rubbed with South African Smoke seasoning, refrigerate overnight or at least 3 hours.
Spray Crock Pot with cooking spray for easier cleanup. Pour in Liquid Smoke and water, then add the brisket.
Pour in entire bottle of BarBecue sauce, add onions and potatoes, cover then cook on low 6-8 hours depending on Crock Pot style.
I sauteed some cabbage in Olive Oil sprinkled with pepper to complete this end of the winter meal.
This delicious dinner for 4 was plenty with leftovers for the next day. The tender beef brisket was shredded and used to make Tex Mex Burritos.
Next week’s feature will be a lighter fare and is also perfect for a Cinco de Mayo celebration.
Don’t forget to come back at 6:00 p.m. for the Weekend Wind-Down Party, I am sure there will be plenty of Spring recipes being shared.
Stay Blessed – No Stress in 2014!
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Hello Friends and Happy Saturday, I hope it’s sunny and warm where you are.
Remember the warning to Julius Caesar by the soothsayer, “beware the Ides of March” in the first act of Williams Shakespeare’s play? Well there’s no need for you to beware, unless you are afraid of Avon products, more importantly FREE Avon products!
In honor of my Blogoversary which is on the 29th of March, beginning today, the Ides of March and ending at midnight on the March 29th you can enter to win this fantastic Spring Collection from *Avon.
This is a non-sponsored giveaway, but is a personal gift from me to one of you!
- http://youravon.com/ablake48 ~ for more info
- 8.4 fl oz Naturals Body Spray – Cocoa Rose
- 8.4 fl oz Naturals Body Lotion – Cocoa Rose
- 5 fl oz Naturals Shower Gel – Cocoa Rose
- 1.5 fl oz Naturals Hand Lotion – Cocoa Rose
- 1.7 fl oz Avon Passion Eau De Parfum Spray
- 6.7 fl oz Avon Passion Body Lotion
This giveaway is just in time for the blooming of Spring to have you smelling as sweet as a rose or it would be a perfect Mother’s Day gift, so enter today to win.
Stay Blessed – No Stress in 2014!
*Basket and flowers are not included
a Rafflecopter giveaway
42 Comments
Hello Friends and Happy Fri-Yay!
This month is running wild and flying by way too quickly, there has been a whirlwind of activity in my life and that’s not even including the last snowstorm of the season. (fingers crossed) All of it has definitely been wonderful and exciting, some I can speak about, others not just yet, but it’s all good news!
- I lost my 2005 Hyundai Sonata due to engine failure and replaced her with a 2010 Hyundai Accent.
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- Hubby completed his retirement paperwork, so on July 1st, he will officially be retired from the State of Delaware – congrats, I’ll give you the “honey-do” list on the 1st of August, a few weeks before our 24th Wedding Anniversary.
- The 2014 Goodwill Runway Show was fantastic, I hope you had an opportunity to read the post, if not, click here. I twisted my ankle a few hours before the event and had to change shoes 3 times, but thankfully, it wasn’t worse and I made it through the night with a smile!
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On Tuesday I taught a Blogging 101 Class which is sponsored by The Money School of Delaware and there were some awesome attendees whose participation was great.
Tomorrow the temps are expected to reach the upper 50’s, so if you are getting a jump on your Spring Wardrobe don’t forget to enter to win a $50 Gift Certificate to Midnight Velvet.
Now, let’s get this party started!
Congratulations to this week’s Featured Bloggers, please check the #WWDParty Pinterest Page as they are posted there as well.
Please feel free to place this button onto your blog
simply fresh dinners
For the Love of Decorating
I’m Perfectly Human
view from the Fridge
True Blue Baking
Carrie This Home
Jordan’s Onion
The rules are the same and we ask that you follow your hosts on at least one Social Media Platform
I look forward to relaxing, reading and commenting on your posts (only if I see a link back to the #WWDParty). Thanks you for stopping by and sharing, have a fantastical weekend and enjoy the warmer weather if you are in the MidAtlantic area!
Stay Blessed – No Stress in 2014!
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Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial. 
Hello Friends and Happy Tuesday!
I love all jewelry especially necklace and earring sets because they can really jazz up an outfit. You can put on a colorful statement necklace with a t-shirt, a sweatshirt or even dark clothing and the whole outfit appears brighter and a little bit dressier. The matching earrings takes the guess work out of what pair to wear especially when it’s early and you are rushing to work, as I normally am.
I actually did not plan on wearing a necklace this morning but then remembered this set that I received from Majestical Jewelry to review.
Hopefully we’ve had the last snow storm of the year because the days are getting longer and soon the weather will get warmer. I’m trying to wear as many winter items as possible all while thinking Spring can’t come soon enough.
This lime green scoop neck top is enhanced by the sapphire blue stones in the necklace – what do you think?
Majestical Jewelry is a high fashion, yet affordable online jewelry store that specializes in handmade and statement pieces. With Prom, Wedding and Graduation season just around the corner, it would be a great place to shop for a gift or perhaps a little something for yourself.
Majestical Jewelry offers free gift wrapping and guaranteed free and easy returns and exchanges on every order. Orders over $49.99 are shipped free! Your purchases are carefully shipped in a Majestical Jewelry logo box, cushioned with bubble wrap and cotton batting, and a blue jewelry bag is also included.
Stay Blessed – No Stress in 2014!
I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.
33 Comments
Hello Friends and Happy Fri-Yay!
Can you believe this is the last Friday in February? It’s sad to see time flying but I don’t think any of us will miss the snowy season and with only 21 days until Spring, we can all “GOODBYE FEBRUARY!”.
As you read this I’m at the Sheraton Hotel participating in this year’s 2014 Goodwill Runway Show. This is my first time working as a Stylist and am truly over-the-top excited! Fellow blogger and friend, Whitney Nic James is covering the event so look forward to reading all about it next week.
Congratulations to this week’s Featured Bloggers!
view from the fridge
From this Kitchen Table
Cupcakes & Zombies
My Paper Craze
Jordan’s Onion
Mums Makes Lists
Year Round Giving
Feel free to add this button to your blog and check our Pinterest page as you will also be featured there.
Now on to the party!
The rules remain the same and we ask that you visit at least one other blogger as well as your hosts.
Stay Blessed ~ No Stress in 2014!
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Hello Friends and Happy Tuesday
Here we are 7 days out from last week’s snow and ice storm yet the damages are still very much evident. This storm caused major headaches and heartaches for many Pennsylvanians due to the loss of power, initially affecting more than 500K people. Wawa on 202 North almost ran out of coffee and did run out of bagels Wednesday morning.
The day started out cold and dry but it didn’t take long for that to change. Thankfully, in Delaware we didn’t get the brunt of the storm but we all know there’s another one not too far behind. Oops just heard the forecast, they are calling for 6-8 inches of snow beginning Wednesday night – Old Man Winter is not giving up without a fight!
Vest | Old Navy // Skirt | GW Boutique
In this bright neon vest, I would never get lost in a snowstorm!
Morning BEFORE the storm
It was a bright, crisp morning in Delaware
After the snow it was beautiful….but
…then came the rain, and unfortunately the trees couldn’t handle the weight of the ice and that’s when the damage began.
Power lines were downed causing many in Chester County to lose power for almost a week and some are still without!
See the other pics in this gallery
This slideshow requires JavaScript.
Have you been severely affected by these latest storms?
Stay Blessed – No Stress in 2014!
18 Comments
Hello Friends and Happy Fri-Yay!
It’s going to be another cold weekend so I’m staying indoors to do some early Spring cleaning…yes, I’m even doing the boring chores. I don’t know about you, but I am super anxious for the warmer weather to get here so I can shed the layers and put away the snow shovel. Even though we have several more months before we get to that point, I wanted to at least get a jump start on it now.
I refuse to let the wintery winds of January stop me from thinking about or even shopping for the Spring season because now is the best time to do so. I recently signed up as an affiliate for Hannah Jane, a new online boutique with some great clothing and accessories at affordable prices. I found a few cute pieces on sale/clearance that I will be adding to my Spring wardrobe, take a look and let me know what you think.
I recently saw a fellow blogger in a classic white T-shirt, so I want to incorporate them into my wardrobe. This Yellow Bubble necklace would be a perfect accessory to jazz it up.
Fuchsia is such a fun Spring color and in jeans it will be great for a casual Friday outfit.
You know that I love all things Polka Dot and this top paired with a Houndstooth infinity scarf would be great to wear on an early chilly Spring morning or evening.
Or would it look better with the red scarf?
You definitely can’t go wrong with a White or Ivory button down blouse and I wish they had this skirt in stock!
I immediately feel in love with this striped comfy, casual knit dress. I could wear it with boots as shown or with pumps to work or even with ballet flats to run errands on the weekend. What do you think?
We do have a few months of cold weather ahead, so I’ll wear a turtleneck underneath this sweater.
AND… I finally found a pair of riding boots in my price range!
The great thing about shopping at Hannah Jane, other than the prices is that they offer FREE SHIPPING on all orders over $50, and a flat $4.99 rate for orders under $50.
If you get a chance, head over to their website and take advantage of the 20% off one item sale and if you sign up for the Newsletter you’ll get an additional discount off of your first order. #winning
Stay Blessed – No Stress in 2014!
I make money on some products and services that I talk about on this website through affiliate relationships with the merchants in question. I get a small commission on sales of those products. That in no way affects my opinion of those products and services.
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Hello Friends and Happy Thankful Thursday
If you read my post yesterday you know that we were once again hit with a major snowstorm on Tuesday. It took me over 5 1/2 hours to get home from work and I definitely didn’t want to be in the car anytime soon so I stayed home on Wednesday. At 10:00 a.m. Governor Markell lifted the Level One State of Emergency but it was highly recommended to stay off the roads so that the snowplow operators could do their jobs with minimal interruption from cars.
So on this day, I am thankful for my family, friends and faith…for getting home safely…for having a warm home to live in…and for scrounging around to find these ingredients to make this easy peasy Crock Pot Meal!
Ingredients
- 1 can of Kidney Beans
- 1 can of Black Beans
- 1 Package of Smoked Turkey Sausage
- 1 Package Frozen Peppers and Onions
- 1 Pack of McCormick Fajita Seasoning
- 1/2 Cup of Water
- Rice and Cornbread
Spray Crock Pot with Cooking Spray for easier cleanup. Cut Turkey Sausage into bite size pieces and add seasoning to a 1/2 cup of water.
Put sausage into Crock Pot and pour in Fajita Seasoning mix.
Add frozen veggies and both cans of beans, which can be drained and rinsed to remove some of the sodium.
Stir, cover and cooked on high for 4 hours.
This Snow Day Slow Cooker dish was served with Jasmine Rice and skillet Cornbread.
It was a perfect meal for my men after a few hours of shoveling and an all-day of television watching! I measured the snow on the back deck so I’ll say that we unofficially got 11″ of snow….can’t wait for Spring to arrive!
The Pool is not looking too inviting these days!
Snowy Street in Summit Farms (our neighborhood)
We are truly blessed, and I am thankful to have a warm home during this cold winter season. I pray for those with less to be safe and removed from harm’s way.
Okay, it’s your turn – what are you thankful for this week?
Stay Blessed ~ No Stress in 2014!
29 Comments
Hello Friends and Happy Saturday
Today many people in the Northeast are digging themselves out from under the results of the first major snow storm of the new year. Snowstorm Hercules caused a lot of problems for many travelers up and down the eastern seaboard and today we are experiencing dangerously low temperatures and high winds causing snow drifts.
Thursday afternoon I left work early to get a jump on the impending storm and made it home safely before any major snow began to fall. However, it was well before 8:00 pm when the intensity of the snow increased and calls from the School Districts began. I decided to use a PTO day in order to avoid a long and possible 3 hour commute into work on Friday.
The snow continued throughout the night and into the early morning which excited hubby because he would finally be able to use his snow blower! He purchased a Craftsman Snow Blower three years ago after the big storm of 2010, but it went unused due to the extremely mild winters that followed.
Like a kid with a new toy, he stayed out so long that the tips of his fingers began to tingle. Did he use the extra gloves and hand warmers that I threw out to him – nope ~ oh well, too bad, so sad!
Despite the intense cold and blustery winds I ran outside a few times to capture the beauty of the day.
These scenes from the back deck and pool made me think – CAN’T WAIT FOR SPRING!
The beauty of the snow was only intensified by God’s gift of light!
Where you affected by snowstorm, and if so, how did you spend the day?
Stay Blessed ~ No Stress in the New Year!
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