In your back pocket...

Faux Bois

2012-02-16T05:35:00.000-08:00

For all you non-Frenchies, Faux Bois means "false wood." It is a great trend that is a perfect alternative to animal prints...graphic yet a bit more subdued.

Seen in rugs...

Martha Stewart Rugs

Southern Living

In Fabrics...

Elle Decor

Atlanta Homes Magazine

-love these pillows above-

Wallpaper...

A Blank Canvas

Trad Home

Even on floors...

Put some" Faux Bois" in your back pocket.

So What? Wednesday

2012-02-15T06:48:00.000-08:00

Hope you're all having a great week ane enjoyed your Valentine's Day...Here's what I'm saying "So What?" to this week...

So What If...

I avoid parallel parking

I 've been known to fix any electronic device by smacking them.

I'm irritated that swimsuit tops didn't have "built in pads" when I was growing up.

I got a good chuckle out of all of the men at the grocery store at 6:00 p.m. Monday night....Feb. 13.

My husband and I celebrated Valentine's Night by watching the Westminster Dog Show....romantic.

The Winner!

What are you saying "So What" to?

Have a great day from in your back pocket.

Happy Heart Day

2012-02-14T04:40:00.000-08:00

images: etsy, Martha Stewart, bakarella, Inside the Home, Pinterst, Noras Place

A little eye candy for you from in your back pocket.

Heart Milk Cubes

2012-02-12T06:29:00.000-08:00

Here's a little Valentines day treat for your family. Heart Milk Cubes. Easy....Just add a few drops of red food coloring to a bowl or glass of milk and pour into heart shapes tray. Freeze over night. Easy Peezy.

A Subtle Revelry

Hello Valentine's morning! A tip to put in your back pocket.

Surprise Find=Sunburst mirror at Home Depot.

2012-02-10T09:25:00.000-08:00

Found this great mirror the other day when I was buying my mac-daddy new hand sander...Now a sunburst mirror is nothing new but a great one at Home Depot certainly is. I need another one like I need a hole in the head but some of you may. This mirror is $34.97, a great size, and will add a little glam to any room.

Sunrise Studio

Clementine and Olive

Jenny Castle Designs

Stylish Living

Check it out at Home Depot. Did I mention $34.97?

And while we're discussing sunbursts check out the new necklace by Tony Duquette for Coach. Love.

A tip to keep in your back pocket.

Light the Way

2012-02-09T05:54:00.000-08:00

We've always said that a house is about a "feeling." Sometimes we don't know what it is that a makes a house a home. Details like lighting is a huge component and "lead" lighting is a perfect way to guide you through a home. Here are some great ideas for hallways, entries, etc.

Carson Lighting

Lonny Blog

My little Space

Coastal Chic

Brabourne Farm

Decorpad

On the Veranda

L-O-V-E. Makes my "can lights" look awfully whimpy...

A tip to put in your back pocket.

So What Wednesday

2012-02-08T07:31:00.000-08:00

And yet another tacky edition of "SWW"...

So What? if...

My dog threw-up an entire baggy full of rubber bands.

I got a new hand-sander and was so excited I could barely fall asleep last night. (loser..)

I sometimes get excited when my plans get cancelled.

Although my husband will deny it if asked, I'm pretty sure he secretly enjoyed "Dance Moms" last night.

I was totally mortified when our guests (who I didn't know very well) saw the 14 year old stained/burnt/disgusting oven mitt I use. I mean, who thinks of those things before company arrives? and...what's worse than stiff new oven mitts?

That's all I got for ya this week. What are you saying "So What?" to this week?

...from the girls of in your back pocket.

Easy Valentine's Day Craft

2012-02-07T06:50:00.000-08:00

Here's an easy turorial my daughter followed to make a darling Valentine's garland...and i didn't have to get out the sewing machine. She followed instructions from Calico Skies...

We used red and white bakers twine..so cute. This was the easiest tutorial we found...try it!

-from the girls of in your back pocket.

I Spy: Directors chairs

2012-02-06T06:16:00.000-08:00

Why did I sell mine at a garage sale? Nowadays you can find cool covers for your directors chairs. I've been seeing them around, lately. Love how "coastal" they look. Take a peek...

India Hicks

Desihn Darling

House Beautiful

Shelter Interiors

Room Envy

Here is a great cover from Home Decorators( $15)... This would be so cute at my planning desk...

Put some old fashioned directors chairs in your pack pocket.

Boyfriends and Blazers

2012-02-05T09:29:00.000-08:00

Boyfriend jeans and blazers. Love. Super easy.

Gap

Cape Cod Cellegiate

Chictopia

J Crew

..and nothing's more comfy than boyfriend jeans/shorts...

P.S. Where's Whitney been?

A must-have for spring...from in your back pocket.

Love it or Leave it: Asymmetrical Hems

2012-02-03T08:02:00.000-08:00

Let's discuss....
Saw a ton of asymmetrical hems at Anthro last week. In fact, i've been seeing them everywhere. For me the jury's still out...What do you think?

Basic black skirt at Nordstom...

Piperlime

Anthropologie

Atlantic/Pqacific

Actually Love this dress from Piperlime....

...this one too, from Free People.

Anthropologie.

Cute from Free People.

Tell us what you think about this trend...

Have a great day from in your back pocket.

Super Bowl Sweets

2012-02-03T05:02:00.000-08:00

If you're bringing dessert to the party this Sunday...

images, Smitten Kitchen, Rust and Sunshine, and Pinterest

and have fun ~~gawking at~~ watching Tom Brady!

Have a great weekend...from in your back pocket.

Nice Job, Land of Nod!

2012-02-02T05:25:00.000-08:00

Finally, Land of Nod, an old favorite, (and we mean O-L-D) has gotten it together. I seemed like they had the same ol' merchandise for the last 5 years. We were so happy to see something new. Is it just us or is it a little more affordable than usual?

Take a peek...

Stacking storage...3 for $49.

New bedding galore...

A legit-sized pouf in a ton of colors... $79.

This wall decal headboard is kinda fun.

Love this print for my kids' bathroom.

Most impressive is their selection of new rugs. You know we're obsessed with rugs...and these are relatively affordable....

Lastly, we adore this bed. Such a statement piece. It is available to order in all of these fabrics above.

Somebody gave those people a swift kick in the behind and demanded an overhaul! Nice job, Land of Nod.

Some new things from in your back pocket.

So What Wednesday!!!

2012-02-01T05:59:00.000-08:00

So I've been kind of a slacker the last few weeks. Truth is, i haven't been really in the mood for any So What Wednesdays. You gotta have the attitude...it's a "no stress" way of thinking. I'm feeling back to my old self again so here's what I'm saying "SO WHAT?" to this week...

SO WHAT? if..

Jen's girls accidentally bought a $99 App off of the family iPad.

I had the best flight EVER as I flew to San Francisco. I happily watched 3 entire episodes of Millionaire Matchmaker and 1 3/4 episodes of Kim and Courtney Take New York. Virgin America Airlines rocks! Who Knew?

I actually got a little choked up when I saw a young mom wearing a macaroni necklace at the grocery store. I hope I wore mine proudly back in the day. (peri-menopause?)

Sometimes I use my daughters full-length mirror. It's definitely a skinny mirror.

I got irrationally upset when I realized my DVR didn't tape the entire episode of the bachelor. (refer to macaroni necklace So What...)

We love hearing your "So Whats?"

Have a great Wednesday and keep the attitude!

...from in your back pocket.

Thinking about...

2012-01-30T07:15:00.000-08:00

So I really want this Kate Spade tote that I saw at Nordstrom (see below). Really want. gonna buy it. Heck, it "wipes off," too!. Since I saw it (it's cuter in person) i've been loving basic black and white stripes.

Nordstrom

These Sam Edelman cuties are a definite spring must...

Elle Decor

Good ol' Sam E. again...

Decorpad

Snippet and Ink

Gap

Gap tee...must wear with bright shoes...

Design Sponge

Cape Cod Collegiate

Bracelet from Madewell...$6.50.

House to Home/Paul Gelly

Put some black+white stripes in your back pocket.

Cookbook Display

2012-01-28T09:00:00.000-08:00

We love cookbooks. We may only use a few of our favorites, but we love to collect them. They personalize a kitchen and give it a little more "homey-ness.

There are so many ways to display them...Here is some eye candy for you.

Southern Living

AB Home

House of Turquoise

House Beautiful

In the Pantry.

Home and Longing

Oak Ridge Revival

Color Me Happy

Decorpad

BH and G

Mi Casa

If yours look like this, try displaying them.

Where are your cook books?

Have a great weekend from in your back pocket.

Lace-Up Rain Boots

2012-01-27T05:26:00.000-08:00

Time to update my rain boots. My basic black Hunters have gotten some serious use the past three years. Time to update. I'm kinda into ones with laces...

Lucky Brand at Bloomingdales

Hunter at Bloomingdales

Zappos

above at Ilse Jacobson

Also a fan of the back-zipper detail:

Above from Joules.

Cheapies from Charlotte Russe.

It's not too late to update those wellies. Here in the midwest we wear them til June!

Have a great great day from in your back pocket.

"Before I Die" Wall

2012-01-26T07:56:00.000-08:00

A special artist and activist, Candy Chang, developed an idea for positivity on the streets of New Orleans. This large chalkboard wall is an interactive public art project that takes the place of less "desirable" street art or vandalism. I think it looks amazing.

What a thoughtful idea. Just a little post of hope for the new year.

We are thankful here at in your back pocket.

Interesting Gallery Wall

2012-01-24T06:56:00.000-08:00

Katie, over at Thirteen Acres, has a great gallery wall in her kitchen that I had to share. i think it is clean, cute, thoughtful.

White frames from Ikea.

Love how it looks from this angle.

Love us a good gallery wall, here at in your back pocket.

West Elm: Souk Rug

2012-01-23T07:55:00.000-08:00

Always been a fan of the Beni Ourain Moroccan rug. Boy are they expensive. West Elm has come up with their own interpretation of it...called the Souk Rug. Much better on the wallet.

Trad Home

Patrik Lonn

Trad Home

Palmer Weis

Check out all the new goodies at west Elm...

It's a home run...have a great day from in your back pocket.

Valentine Pretzels

2012-01-18T19:19:00.000-08:00

Pinterest/Love from the Oven

Over at the adorable cooking blog Love from the Oven, Christi had a great tutorial on how to make a cute Valentine's treat. You know how we love to dip things in chocolate at our house!

Here we go!

You'll need LARGE sourdough Pretzels, white chocolate chips or "candy melts"-available at Walmart or craft store and all kinds of sprinkles!

First, melt the chips at 50% power in 30 second intervals until melted.

Dip pretzels.

It's easier to pour bigger sprinkles on top, rather than lay the pretzel on sprinkles.

"Dip" in fine sprinkles or sugars.

Place on cookie sheet lined with wax paper until the choc. hardens.

Ta-da! So cute.

Don't forget to wrap them in cellophane bags with that cute Valentine's ribbon!

An easy Valentine's treat from in your back pocket.

Valentine's gift for YOU!

2012-01-17T04:16:00.000-08:00

I just LOVE these personalized wish bracelets from Just Believe by Belinda Shop on Etsy. They are both sentimental and classy. They are $119 so give your significant other the "hint" and maybe it will show up for Valentine's Day.... (or, in our case, have your sister -or BFF- tell your honey what you want...Trust me, they want ideas!)

A classy and original addition to your arm party.

Just sayin....from in your back pocket.

3 Powder Room Makeovers.

2012-01-16T08:15:00.000-08:00

Here are some great powder room Before and Afters from 2011. Not particularly "over-the-top," but wow! I need a contractor.

This one below is from Rachel at A Touch of Gray.

Before:

After:

This next on is from My Best Friend Craig blog.

Before:

After:

From Pink Wallpaper.

Before:

After:

I'm looking for a small overhaul to my powder room this year...

A little inspiration from in your back pocket.

Almost Here: Toms ballet flats

2012-01-14T14:05:00.000-08:00

Any minute now Toms ballet flat will be available. Now I haven't seen them in person, but many bloggers have and gave them a big thumbs-up. Can't wait. So comfortable, affordable, and charitable.

I'm loving these burlap with the black toe...

Just a little "get ready" from the girls of in your back pocket.

Easy Valentine's Day Gift For Kids

2012-01-13T07:47:00.000-08:00

In our elementary schools kids are no longer allowed to pass out any candy treats for Valentine's Day. Here is a cute idea for you children help with...recycled/psychedelic crayon hearts.

les petit presents

Peel broken old broken crayons-get the kids to help...and plan to get manicure after!. Put pieces in a heart shaped silicone baking pan (available anywhere, i.e. Target, Michaels, etc.) Fill almost to top. Bake in a 250 degree oven for about 10-13 min. or until crayons are melted . Remove from oven and let cool to harden. Pop them out!

So cute individually wrapped in a ...yep, you guessed it... cellophane little bag with cute ribbon and tag!

One of many Valentine's ideas to come from in your back pocket.

I want to ride my bicycle...

2012-01-12T07:21:00.000-08:00

Jen asked her husband to take her on a little vacation just so she could buy/wear this dress from Anthropologie. I think I love bicycle things...

Bike Lane dress, $158.

Note cards from BetsyAnn paper

Cute Bicycle necklace from rudebits jewelry

Personalized notepad from silhouette blue

Onesie from stinkopotamus

Personalized print from Prettymod

Print from Krafty Fox ...I want this for my kid's bathroom!

Munchkin Munchies

A little inspiration from in your back pocket.

So What Wednesday

2012-01-11T05:40:00.000-08:00

Happy 2012...What are you saying "so what" to this week?

So What? that

It takes me til at least April to start writing 2012, instead of 2011

I'm pretty sure the new tote bag I bought is really a diaper bag.

8 days into the new year I reneged on my resolution of no after dinner chocolate. FAIL.

For some unexplainable reason I really hate making school lunches.

I kind of hid and didn't answer the door when a random Girl Scout came selling cookies because we have already bought like 40 boxes and didn't have the heart to turn her down face-to-face.

That's all i got...Hope you have a good Hump day. (actually, I hate when people call it that....)

...from in your back pocket.

Chevron at Target

2012-01-10T11:19:00.000-08:00

While shopping for really nothing in particular at Target I came across a chevron pillow. It was beat up, and the only one left, so I did some digging when I got home.
Fancy Target...

$19.99

Coastal living

April Bauer

Now, I didn't buy one because I need another pillow like I need hole in the head, but for 19.99?...not too shabby.

I did contemplate this beauty. This lampshade is under $20 and will add some graphic detail to any space.

A little Target tip from in your back pocket.

Bathroom: Double Curtains

2012-01-09T04:54:00.000-08:00

So, we're back after a little holiday hiatus. On to the the bathroom... We've been noticing a lot of double shower curtains. It seems to make the shower more grand (if that's your intention) and we especially love the "unexpected" beyond them, i.e. art, mirror, etc. Who would've thought to hang a piece of art in the shower. I'm assuming these aren't showers that are used every day.

Phoebe Howard

Carrington Home

Rebecca June

Decorpad

Thom Felicia

In Plain View

Bryn Alexandra

Flickr

Frame your shower like a window...a tip to put in your back pocket.

Removing Cabinet Doors...

2012-01-02T07:58:00.000-08:00

While we're on quick-changes for the kitchen, we love the idea of removing kitchen cabinet doors to create open shelving.

C. Scott interiors

My Home Ideas

Martha Stewart

Southern Living

Real Simple

My Home Ideas

Below is a before and after from Shaunna at Perfectly Imperfect Blog to give you an idea...

Just remove doors and fill in holes from hinges with wood filler...

BEFORE:

AFTER:

I love this idea, but you have to have some storage to spare. I still have plastic Batman plates to hide, but would love to remove a door or two and paint the inside for an extra detail....

Another quick-change for 2012 from the girls of in your back pocket.

A New Kitchen Runner

2011-12-31T09:58:00.000-08:00

Another quick change with big impact is a new kitchen runner. I'm always on the lookout and change mine all of the time. They do get kind of beat up so you don't really want to spend a ton...

Mixed Home

Natasha Strong

Eric Roth

Amber Interiors

Johnstone Kitchens

House Beautiful

CPC

If your husband won't let you get your floors stained darker...then a little runner "camouflage" is a great alternative...

Have a happy and safe New Year's...

Put some quick-change inspiration in your back pocket.

An Old Favorite: Kitchen Chalkboards

2011-12-29T07:42:00.000-08:00

As I put away our holiday decor I always have a well intended, fresh perspective on my home. I say to myself, "self, i need a few updates...but still have a big Christmas Visa bill coming...hmmmm." In the next few posts we'll bring you some pick-me-ups to start the new year....

Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles

Cottage Mix

Homeworks

Heather Chadduck/Cottage Living

Design Indulgence

BHG

Fresh Home

The good thing about this trend is that it is inexpensive to paint yourself...I'm thinking a planning desk/backsplash might be in order...

Find a spot in your kitchen....from the girls of in your back pocket.

Merry Christmas

2011-12-24T13:55:00.000-08:00

Polly Wrefor

Hansen house Blog

Richard Stark

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas. We are so thankful for many, many things in our lives.

Enjoy the day... from Kris and Jen of in your back pocket.

Sticky Bun Ring

2011-12-23T09:45:00.000-08:00

Every Christmas morning our family makes "monkey bread" right after we open presents from Santa. It's so delicious, but actually is kind of time comsuming...Here is another recipe that I'm gonna try this Christmas...Sticky Bun Ring. I originally saw it on Pinterest and read the recipe on All Things Delicious. Seems easy enough. ***update: tried it this morning...so easy and kids loved it.***

photos from Stamps4fun

What you will need:

2 sm. tubes of buttermilk biscuits or 1 tube Pillsbury "Grands" buttermilk biscuits.

3 Tbs. melted butter or margarine

1/2 C maple syrup

1/3 C brown sugar

1/2 tsp cinnamon

1. Spray bundt pan with non-stick cooking spray

2. Mix butter and maple syrup in a bowl, set aside.

3. Mix brown sugar and cin. in bowl, set aside.

Pur half of the liquid mixture into the pan, followed by half of the sugar/cinn mixture.

Place the biscuits in and around the pan. Top with rest of each mixture.

Bake at 375 for about 20-25 min. Promptly remove and invert from pan on plate. Some "sauce" ooze out!

Pull apart and enjoy!

A quick treat from in your back pocket.

Stocking Stuffer: Tie-dye-hair-tie

2011-12-22T05:05:00.000-08:00

I recently bought some new, awesome colored hair ties for "my daughter" (wink-y face) for x-mas... Such a fun website. Go to ManeMessage on etsy to get yourself...I mean , your daughter some.

I bought t"the sampler pack" above. $19.60 for 8 ties and 2 headbands. Ceck it out.

Put some new hair ties in your back pocket.

So What Wednesday...

2011-12-21T08:02:00.000-08:00

Hope your last minute gift wrapping is going smoothly...Time for a little So What Wednesday...

SO WHAT if...

Jen and I are obsessed with the "backpack" vacuum cleaner that the ~~janitor~~ building engineer at her elementary school uses. It's genius. He carries it around right on his back from room to room...

I still write out the tags of my kid's gifts from Santa in different writing than my usual...like i'm faking them out.

I am giving everyone I know these new mini-containers of Vaseline. My preocupation with anything "mini" or travel size continues.

apparently college kids home for vacation don't have a curfew...

We watched about 10 re-runs of Fresh Prince of Bel Air last weekend. So funny, actually. Didn't you hate it when they switched Aunt Vivs?

"Yo homies, smell ya later..."

Have a great Wednesday...from in your back pocket.

Bench Seating...

2011-12-20T04:53:00.000-08:00

Love the look of upholstered bench seats at the kitchen island. I don't know how practical it would be for my "bickering" family, but maybe someday...

Caitlin Creer

Mix and Chic

Southern Living

Free Style

Decotpad

Cottage Living

Atlanta homes Magazine

House Beautiful

Melanie Turner

Put a counter bench in your back pocket.

PB Krispy Roll

2011-12-18T08:39:00.000-08:00

Here's a fun little variation on the traditional Rice Krispy treat found on MADE blog.

PREP:

Line a cookie sheet with wax paper. Generously spray it with non-stick cooking spray and set aside.

DIRECTIONS:

In a large bowl, microwave for 2 min:

1 pkg mini-marshmallows

1/4 cup butter

1/4 cup peanut butter

-stir ingredients and add 5 1/2 cups Rice Krispies.

-Mix well and spread mixture on the coated waxed paper. Coat hands with the non-stick spray and flatten out mixture until it is even. Set aside.

-Mix together and microwave in 20 second intervals. (these intervals are to insure that the chips don't burn...it can happen.)

11/3 cup choc. chips

3/4 cup peanut butter chips

Spread mixture onto the Rice Krispies equally.

Roll into a log and refrigerate for 30 min. Slice and serve!!

Place in cellophane bag, tie on some ribbon and there you go! Cute gifts for your neighbors. Mmm.

I think this is a photo of cookies, bit you get the gist.

Happy Baking from in your back pocket.

Feeling Brassy

2011-12-16T04:36:00.000-08:00

Lately I've been loving brass accents. Now, I have some BAD brass fixtures in my master bath...you know, the shiny 80's stuff. Maybe if I wait long enough to change it will come back in style.
Todays brass is much more subdued and a nice change from polished nickel.

Atlanta Homes

Urban outfitters

Lonny

House to Home

Alecia Stevens

Ballard Designs

Design Blossom

Young House Love

A good way to start is with this table and this lamp (below) from Ballard Designs

My favorite Library light from Circa Lighting. (STILL coveting...)

Ethan Allen

A Brass bowl...

Pottery barn

or any interesting accessory.

Not to be confused with anything like this!!!

Have a good weekend and put some antique brass in your back pocket.

So What Wednesday...

2011-12-14T05:16:00.000-08:00

Time for a little So What Wednesdays for your mid December entertainment. This is definitely the time of year that we need to have the "So What" attitude!

SO WHAT....if

my daughter and her friend switched sweatshirts in order to fake out the 85 year old lady at Costco and get a 2nd sample of cream puffs.

I allowed it

I almost always like the Secret Santa gift that I am giving more than the one I receive.

I wasn't totally kidding when I told my husband I wanted Barry Manilow tickets for Christmas.

Im jealous that Jen has one of those Starbucks where the people in line pay for the person behind them...I am always hopeful but to embarrassed to start it...

Ha! How 'bout that picture of good ol' Barry...

Have a great Wednesday from in your back pocket.

Wrapping Wine

2011-12-13T07:48:00.000-08:00

I must admit, I'm not a huge fan of wine bags. Most of them are tacky and look like they have been re-gifted a time or two. I usually just add some greenery and a homemade tag, but here are some interesting options for your hostess.

My tradtional wine decor...

Wine wraps are cute and removeable!

Here's some free downloads..Many more on line.

A men's shirt sleeve makes a cute bag!

even easier...the cuff as a wrap! Definitely gonna try this one.

Grey Likes Weddingd

a repurposed sweater sleeve.

Tea towels...fold/wrap/and tie!

Sarahs Fab Day

My obsession with burlap continues. Just cut the width/height you want and glue to make a sleeve. (Just enough to cover the label,) I especially love the texture of the velvet ribbon.

Design Daddy

Here's an original idea..a wine bottle vase. Just measure Kraft paper to the size you want, wrap it and fill top with greens. tie bow around body of bottle so as not to crinkle paper!

Some wine-wrapping ideas to stick in your back pocket.

Marshmallow Dippers...Check.

2011-12-12T05:05:00.000-08:00

My daughter and I made our dippers this weekend. So fun, easy, and we're gonna make some more...

My son actually got off the couch to dip a few...

Our neighbors loved them...

Put an easy treat in your back pocket.

Holiday Details

2011-12-11T07:43:00.000-08:00

A few weekend photos to help you stay inspired...

Hope you're having a productive weekend...from in your back pocket.

Santa Hat Brownies

2011-12-09T09:48:00.000-08:00

Santa Hat Brownie Bites

Here's a great idea for a holiday treat. I saw a version of it on Daisy's World.

Just take Brownies (or brownie bites- that are already round,) buttercream frosting and whole strawberries!

Take brownies cut into small circles (a circle cookie cutter is perfect) and add whole strawberry with stem cut off to make a flat surface. Add buttercream around base with a frosting tip. Don't forget the dollop on top. Refrigerate for about 30 min for frosting to harden. Hint: cut the tip off the strawberry just a "titch" so the little ball of frosting stays on better.

Try them this weekend. Have a good one...from the girls of in your back pocket. in

Don't Forget the Kitchen

2011-12-08T07:11:00.000-08:00

Sometimes the kitchen gets a little left out in holiday decorating...her's a little, simple holiday inspiration for the "heart of the home.

Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles

Shades of life

Houzz

Coastal chic

Centsational Girl

French Style

A well-placed wreath always always does the trick..like on Jen's kitchen hood...

Don't forget the kitchen...some greenery is all you need.

Have a great Thursday from in your back pocket.

Calendar Cuteness

2011-12-07T09:16:00.000-08:00

I recently bought this adorable print calendar for a good friend of mine. It is so happy and bright. Just change out the page/print every month and a new little view awaits! It's $28.00 and available at Etsy's English Muffin Shop.

Each page is 8x10.

I'm going to wrap it with an inexpensive gallery frames from Ikea...

Come to think of it, I might keep it for myself...

Put a cute NewYear's gift in your back pocket.

Lil Dippers

2011-12-06T07:23:00.000-08:00

Here is a cute, easy (love that word) quick gift idea or friends, neighbors, hostess etc...Cocoa dippers. Love these photos from a favorite blog called Garnish. They have everything you need to make your food presentation a little bit cuter.

Just dip the spoons or marshmallows in chocolate, (yes, melted choc chips will work) put on wax paper and refrigerate for about an hour.

They look so cute in a cellophane bag and cute ribbon. Spoons, straws, bags and much more available at Garnish...

Happy dipping from the sisters of in your back pocket.

Birch Logs

2011-12-05T05:26:00.000-08:00

I want some birch logs. Real, heavy, white burch logs. Did you know they're available on Etsy or Ebay? And yes- they even have a website called Birchlogs.com. (of course they do.) I don't want to use them, i just want to bring in some nature to my winter/holiday decor.

Can you imagine my husband's reaction if they UPS man delivered a box of wood to my front door? He'd flip his lid.

I want some of these...

To put in my Crate and Barrel basket like this...

To look like this...

Or to put in my ~~West Elm~~-Homegoods find below...

DecorPad

Centsational Girl

Decorpad

Does anyone know where they sell them like this???

French Market

Put some white birch logs in your back pocket.

Monogram Your Gift

2011-12-02T07:25:00.000-08:00

Take a minute to personalized your gift tags by adding a monogram of sorts. Cut out actual letter on scrapbooking paper, use stamps on kraft paper, down load some free printables,or do what we usually do-place initial sticker right on a mailing tag. So easy and it looks as though you put some extra care into the gift.

Martha Stewart

Paper Source

One Joyous Party

These mailing tags are a staple in our gift-wrapping closet. you can buy them anywhere...affordable and useful.
I usually buy red glitter alphabet stickers (pretty big ones) ,,,except you're left with a lot of the letters "Z" and "X".

You can also download these letter stencils above at Paper Source.

or these from Martha Stewart found here.

Put some monogrammed gift tags in your back pocket.

So What Wednesday...

2011-11-30T06:27:00.000-08:00

Time for another edition of So What? Wednesdays....What re you saying So What to?

SO WHAT if...

Apparently my Big Bad Husband (BBH) now thinks he's managing editor of this blog. He was reading it last week ( for about the first or second time, ) and he said "do you want my advice?" I reluctantly said, "Sure." He replied..."I really think you should change the light blue to something brighter. It really needs to POP," and with that, i'm not kidding you, he did "jazz hands."

The next day I got an e-mail from my him with the subject "blogworthy?" I opened it and there was a photo of a of a Thanksgiving cupcake- frosted as a turkey complete with edible pilgrim hat.

I never really found out where my BBH got such a photo. I fear that we have woken a sleeping giant.

On Monday I put about 10 items in different sites' cyber-shopping carts and didn't buy one of them.

I now know my credit card # by heart...uh-oh.

Hope you're having a great week and remember to just say "so what?" to a few things once in a while...from in your back pocket.

Striped Straws

2011-11-28T08:09:00.000-08:00

Many of you may know that I have an slight obsession with striped straws. They're nothing new, but never lose their cuteness. I have almost every color of the rainbow...and, embarassing-ly enough, I hardly ever use them... (well, more like I don't LET anyone use them.)

They're easy to find and are a definite NEED on your gift giving list. They make everything just a wee bit cuter!

They make chocolate milk more festive...

A Perfect Party

These are adorable tied on a gift, with recipients name...

They can be used in crafts...

Tater Tots and Jello

Make adorable North pole signs..(although these are peppermint sticks...)

One Charming Party

How 'bout Snowflakes

Centsational Girl

They even make great party favors for guests at your cookie exchange...or cocktail get together ;).

Let your friends just grab one as they leave.

Tie them with on a bag of malted milk mix...even some pomegranate martini mix...

Crate and Barrel sells the boxes above for $4.95. I always have a stash for gifts. Sweet lulu is also a great resource, and at Green Party Goods they are 144 for $16.00.

Put some striped goodies in your back pocket.

Snowman Wreath(s)

2011-11-25T07:02:00.000-08:00

Hope you all had a great Thanksgiving. On to holiday decorating. Here is a cute idea for your front door...a little change from the ordinary wreath...

Sew ManyWays

Gina Norgard

Held together by zip ties...

What a welcome...

South Coast Home

Any wreaths will do, twig, pine cone, etc. Just add a hat, scarf and some twig arm...mittens optional!

Put a wreath-snowman in your back pocket.

Thankful

2011-11-24T06:24:00.000-08:00

We are Thankful...

Hawthorne Farm

Griege

Stye Me Pretty

Gotta love the hand turkey...

Have a wonderful thanksgiving and thank you for being a part of in your back pocket.

Chevron panelling

2011-11-22T09:08:00.000-08:00

I'm in love with this chevron panelling i've spotted lately. Although I must admit, t seems too tedious for me. Below are some inspiration photos. The bathroom below is for Maison Classique and it's pretty amazing.

Here is the BEFORE:

...and AFTER

I also spy it on this vanity in a beach house ...

oceaninteriors

and i'm dying over this door...

The Graphic Queen/Pinterest

Definitely going on my imaginary beach house...

Think about some chevron panelling to put in your back pocket.

DIY Wellies

2011-11-20T17:18:00.000-08:00

I came across this cute DIY last weekend. It's from Beachbrights.blogspot....and I think it's so creative and fun for any age.

All you'll need_

-Walmart Boots..$25.00

-Grommets...Hobby Lobby

-Ribbon

she cut them straight down the back...

Added the grommets. Not too difficult, really.

And laced!!!

Cute!

When you get to this site search "Wellies" and full instrutions will pop up! Simple.

A little DIY project to put in your back pocket.

Living Room Lighting

2011-11-18T05:52:00.000-08:00

I'm really into lighting. Now, if you visited my home you would never believe that (ha) but my eyes are always open for a great fixture to hang in my living room. We think they're dramatic and can finish off a room. Here are a couple categories:

LANTERNS

House Joy

Cote De Texas

Stanton

PENDANT

Jillian Thom

My Home Ideas

West Elm

Skona Hem

CHANDELIERS

Doveote

Elle Decor

Stanton

and a couple more beauties...

Stanton

I know that's a little overload..but you get the gist...so many options!

Put some living room ceiling lights in your back pocket.

SWW

2011-11-16T05:51:00.000-08:00

Time for another addition of So What Wednesdays... Or , as I'm calling it today "SWW"- snazzy.

SO WHAT if:

I almost knocked my own teeth out trying to pull-on my extra-narrow "pull on" boots. My hand slipped off as I was sitting on my bed and I punched myself in the face.
you should see my husband trying to pull them OFF.
I'm already listening to Christmas music.
I've GOT to think of open ended questions to text my son..."Are you wearing your retainer?" and "Did you carve a pumpkin" aren't working.
My husband accidentally mentioned that one of the mouse traps is missing and all I can picture is this creepy little mouse dragging around a trap from his creepy little hind legs...

What are you saying "So What" to? It's all in the attitude...

Another SWW from us here at in your back pocket.

A Homecoming

2011-11-14T04:51:00.000-08:00

Time for a little self-indulgent post. Had an awesome homecoming/parents weekend trip to the University of Arizona. As some of you may know, my son is a freshman swimmer there. We had not seen him since middle of August and as those of you with teenage sons know, the texts consist of "K," "good," and occasionally a "thanx."

This is the ~~resort~~ facility where they practice. A little change from the midwest.

Each team member gets his name and stats on this screen during meets. (sorry about poor photo.)

Go Cats!!!! They swam against Univ. of Wisconsin.

The best part was a surprise showing from my BFF and sis Jen!!!

Here with my son Kevin.

Kev and Jen's adorable brood. The oldest grandchild holding the youngest.

My son and his roommate. So cute.

And we spent some quality time with great friends from college. It was great to spend time with them and get to see how their kids have grown.

The problem was, i still kinda feel like i'm in college and now we're at parents weekend????

I am feeling extra thankful today.

A little homecoming to put in your back pocket..

It Takes a Licking...

2011-11-11T06:05:00.000-08:00

Good ol' Timex has a great watch that's only $60. It comes in perfect color combos and better yet, it's called the Easy Reader. Ha. It's classic and you can find a great selection at Piperlime and Nordstrom.

And $55.00 for these gals below at Karmaloop.com.

Perfect with your little "Arm Party!"

Louise and Leo

Anjolee

Michael Kors

Penny Chic

My arm party looks like this today...

kind of a "training" arm party...ha.

Put a fun, new and inexpensive Timex watch in your back pocket.

So What Wednesday...

2011-11-09T05:55:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone...It's a lazy fall morning and a good day to say "so what?" to a few things...

SO WHAT if...

-My sister and I are pretty sure we were comedians in a previous life.

- I gave a serious fist pump this morning when I found that $20 bill in my inside coat pocket.

-I only washed my kids' pillow cases cuz I was too lazy to change the whole set.

-my toenail polish is basically just "growing off.'"

-My husband has a mini panic-attack when someone in our household has the stomach flu. ( We basically quarantined our daughter for 24 hours on Monday-thank goodness for cell phones....)

-I literally ripped the pocket off of my favorite sweater because i got it caught on the dooeknob/handle as i hurried by... (also got a mild case of whiplash.)

Again... a few visuals

What are saying "so what?" to this week?

Have a good wednesday from in your back pocket.

Bannister Makeover

2011-11-07T07:17:00.000-08:00

Since my husband vetoed my idea of staining our wood floors darker, I figured I had to take matters into my own hands. A little spruce up is definitely needed. Therefore, I am venturing to paint my bannister a dark black-brown myself. Now I know that when I get about half way through I am going to ask myself "what were you thinking" but this project is going to be my pre-thanksgiving update. FYI, I did try the "new floor color would be a great 'pre-Thanksgiving spruce-up'" idea on my husband....no dice.

Dwellers Without Decorators

Darlington designs

Verannda/jennifer lopez

Centsational girl

My only concern is how it will look with my old basic-oak-80's floor color. I have also promised myself that i WILL take the time to properly prep the wood for painting (stripping, cleaning, sanding.) That's never been my strong suit as I just want to get to the painting!!!

Put a new bannister in your back pocket.

Woops!

2011-11-02T18:02:00.000-07:00

SO WHAT if:

I was so freaked out by the discovery of mouse ~~poop~~ droppings under my kitchen sink that I forgot about "So What Wed-nes-days."

ugh.

Hope you have a great day, and keep all rodents out of your back pocket.

Socks and Boots.

2011-11-02T05:32:00.000-07:00

This year how bout a new pair of socks to wear with your boots. So fun.

The Day Book

Socks shown available at Sahalie. I saw great ones at Gap.

Put some boot socks in your back pocket.

Coveting: Antelope Print

2011-10-31T05:09:00.000-07:00

I've always been a fan of animal prints...in moderation. I recently ran smack into this antelope print rug. Loved how it's understated--didn't love the hefty price tag. Here's some insight into how my brain started working:

Decorpad

Elle Decor

Amanda Nesbit

Design Chic

Texskiss

Ruthie Somers

Cote De texas

Love it. Put a little antelope print in your back pocket.

Burgers Tonight?

2011-10-29T06:51:00.000-07:00

A cute dinner surprise...

Have a great weekend!

...from the girls of in your back pocket.

Visions of Burberry

2011-10-28T04:57:00.000-07:00

I know it's nothing new but this is the year for me to become an owner of the classic Burberry scarf. In fact, things are reminding me of it everywhere!

House Beautiful

Mi Casa

Decesare Designs

Victoria Hagan

...and I mean EVERYWHERE!

Yep, I think this is the year.

But some Burberry color in your back pocket.

"So What?" Wednesday, Volume 3

2011-10-26T06:10:00.000-07:00

Hope you're all having a good week. We absolutely loved all of the hysterical responses to our So What? days. We knew you could relate... Here's what's on my mind this week...

SO WHAT
if...

I gave my husband parfait glasses for his birthday: A) because for some strange reason he is fascinated with making them for the kids and B) I get the giggles every time he says "parfait."

I ignored the fact that i reached between the couch cushions to find the remote and felt nothing but crumbs.

It was "totally" my fault that my teenage daughter's braid was "bumpy."

My teenage daughter is becoming a teenage daughter.

Every time I walked by the fresh batch of brownies i took a little bite so as not to have a whole piece- Soon enough the entire row was gone.

I have to mentally say "wed-nes-day" when I write this post.

Of course, i can't forget the visuals...

Have a great day from us here at in your back pocket.

"Oreo Cakester" Pops

2011-10-24T06:53:00.000-07:00

Jen found these super-cute treats...They look uber-hard but are actually super simple.

What You'll need:

Oreo Cakesters
Lollipop sticks-(actually optional but much more fun)
Chocolate chips
Baggie (or fancy "decorating bag")
wax paper
candy eyes

--sticks, eyes and bag can be found at any craft store--

Melt choc chips (about 1/2 cup at a time) in baggie at 70% power for about 70 seconds. Rremove and smash up chips. place back in microwave until fully melted. Cut hole in tip (corner of bag)

place wax paper on cooke sheet and make shapes of spider legs or bat wings.

Put tray in fridge for at least a couple of hours-til chocolate shapes have set.

Put the little guys together. Eyes can stick on with frosting.

There you Go! Quite Martha-like!

Full recipe available at The Decorated Cookie.

Put a little Oreocake treat in your back pocket.

Fabric Drawer Pulls

2011-10-21T05:08:00.000-07:00

No, I still haven't begun my daughter's room re-do. Mostly because I'm frightened to go in there. Clothes pile up pretty quickly when you try on 3-4 different outfits a day!

Anyhow here is an inspirational "DIY" that I've had on my list for her room.

Sweet ottage Dreams

Prinp

Michele Raver Designs

My fear is that they won't be strong enough. Especially when A) your drawers are old and kinda sticky and B) when your mad that the first 3 outfits didn't look quite right and your looking for something else to wear.

What do you think?

Put some easy dresser pulls in your back pocket.

So What Wednesday

2011-10-19T10:36:00.000-07:00

O.K...Let's try this again. A little "So What" therapy...

SO WHAT IF...

-Somedays the cereal bowls stay on the table til well after noon.

-I may or may not have followed some lady up and down the rows of Homegoods because i was waiting for her to change her mind on that awesome lamp.

-Jen and a I are pretty sure we'd win the jackpot on Wheel of Fortune Sibling Week.

-I searched my car frantically for my cell phone while I was actually talking to Jen on it!!!!

Have a great day and don't forget to say "So What" every so often...from the girls of in your back pocket.

P.S. We loooved some of your feedback-so funny.

Lunch Box Notes

2011-10-17T05:54:00.000-07:00

My oldest son is a freshman in college and I still sent him a little note in the most recent package I mailed him! Although I'm sure he rolled his eyes, I couldn't help myself.

These notes from Pottery Barn Kids have silly "factoids" on the back.

These ones from Flywheel Press at Etsy are favorites.

The ones below are eco-friendly from Neat Things.

We love all these lunch box notes that are available today. Such a special little treat for your kids.
Help your kids have a great day from the moms of in your back pocket.

Fun with pumpkins

2011-10-14T10:15:00.000-07:00

Gotta love plastic vampire teeth. Here's a cute idea from good ol' Martha Stewart herself.

Crafty Scrappy Happy

Have a great weekend...from the chicks of in your back pocket.

Faux throw

2011-10-13T05:08:00.000-07:00

Cozy up with a faux fur throw...They're super easy to find. I especially like this one from World Market-$59.00...(am I the only one who still calls it Cost Plus?)

Mi Casa

Cottage Daydreams

My Home Ideas

Fun in the Center

Elle Decor

Have a cozy day from the girls of in your back pocket.