Cool Treat for Hot Summer Days (& A Giveaway)

I don't know about you, but we are having a major heat wave in NC this week. I have been trying to keep the twins entertained indoors, but we are getting a little stir crazy over here. I was given the opportunity to try out the new Ball book of Canning & Preserving and found an amazing recipe that combines the twin's two favorite summer fruits...Watermelon and Blackberries. They of course loved it and were signing "more".

And...because today is International Can It Forward Day I used a couple of my jars to serve the Watermelon-Blackberry Granita.

If you love canning, mason jar crafts, gifts or decorating with these beauties you can follow Ball  for giveaways and LIVE demonstrations going on throughout the day. You can see that all happening HERE (Facebook Live) starting at 10:00am EST. 
*Also, if you participate by asking questions, liking a recipe or make a pledge, a $1 donation will be made to charity. So it's a #winwin for all! 
*Have a question!? Use Twitter with hashtag #canitforward from 10am-5pm ET on July 22nd.  

That's Not All my friends! Ball is also giving ONE of my lucky readers the amazing goodies below!! 

 The All New Ball Book of Canning and Preserving: From the makers of the iconic Ball® jars and Ball® canning products comes the first truly comprehensive canning guide created for today's home cooks. This modern handbook boasts more than 200 brand new recipes ranging from jams and jellies to pickles, salsas, and more. (Retail value: $22.95)

Case of Collection Elite Wide Mouth Pint Jars: For the first time, the Ball® brand has introduced a line of never-before released blue colored jars.  (Retail value: $8.99/case)

One $5 off coupon to be used on FreshPreservingStore.com

Follow the Rafflecopter below to enter! (U.S. Residents Only Please) Good Luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway


**A HUGE Thank you to Ball Jars for sending the above products for review and giveaway. As always all of the opinions are mine and only mine. **

7 Fall {DIYs & Recipes} I'd Like to Try

Hi all! Hope you are enjoying your fall. The weather is really changing here in NC and I have been in the mood for salted caramel mocha's and pumpkin pie! The fall is definitely one of my favorite seasons.

On my free time (haha) I have been scouring the web and finding some really neat fall DIYs that I would love to try. Not sure I will have time this fall or not, but I am definitely saving these ideas on my Fall pinterest board for next year.

1. DIY Plaid Pumpkin
My girl Courtney is the queen of plaid and she has recently created this adorable plaid pumpkin vase for fall! How adorable is this? Or if you have no use for a vase, you could just create a plain plaid pumpkin and add to your Halloween or Thanksgiving decor.

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2. Apple Cider Sidecar Cocktail

Let's be honest, this mama could use a cocktail and this one is calling my name! Might be mixing this sweet drink this coming weekend.

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3. Orange Gingerbread Sugar Scrub Cubes

Don't these look fun!? I am thinking I need to call all my girlfriends and have a girls night in just to make these little guys. Maybe a fall party will be in my near future. 

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4. Fall Printable (Free Download)
This saying is so me! I love my tea and for some reason the fall makes me want to cozy up and read something new and exciting. This printable also comes in black with white writing for all of you chalkboard lovers.

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5. Fall Apple Cheeseballs

How adorable are these? Like so so cute. If you know me at all...anything cheese is perfection!

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6. Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread

Can you all see a recurring theme around here? Yes I love fall and yes I am hungry! I love this sweet printable recipe card from Jones Design Company. Have you signed up for their free printable archive?

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7. Candy Corn Chocolate Bark

Are you a candy corn fan? You are either all in or absolutely hate the candy. There are no gray areas for candy corn. I actually love it until I get sores on my tongue from eating too many...then I despise the stuff! Maybe making them into bark would help me from eating too much (maybe). 

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What do you all crave in the fall? Anything I NEED to know about?

Have a wonderful weekend friends! 

{Pinterest Recipes} I've Tried and Liked

So if you are anything like me, you like to find some quick meals that taste amazing....right? I am becoming less and less of a cook as the years move on. I always get stuck making the same meals over and over. I often look to Pinterest for inspiration not just in home decor, but also meal planning. I know that Pinterest can be a bit overwhelming, but I really do love finding new recipes to try. Some have been "no goes" while a few have been put on our rotation list for our "go to" meals.

Today I thought I would share a few Pinterest recipes that we like and you will too!

Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps

These were so tasty and your house smells amazing all day while cooking. We had so many leftovers that I froze the extra chicken for another meal down the road.

Southwestern Stuffed Peppers

These were so so good. I have also made these without the ground turkey/beef and added Quinoa instead.

Butternut Squash, Bacon & Arugula Quiche

This has been one of my favorites for over a year! I have made it for guests and everyone loves it. All of these ingredients and flavors combined taste amazing! Give it a whirl...you won't regret it!

Black Bean Spinach Enchiladas

Again...another one of our go to meals except I do not make my own enchilada sauce like they do in the recipe. I buy one can of medium sauce at the store. I have also added butternut squash to these which gives it a bit more flavor. Another way to make these enchiladas more simple is to create more of a bake layering the tortilla shells and then adding the ingredients in between the layers. Bakes the same, just cuts down on rolling and placing the shells.

Chicken, Orange and Kale Salad

So so good my friends! You can change up the fruit with the season. I have even cheated in the winter months and added canned mandarin oranges. This meal would be easy if you had left over chicken from a previous meal. Just add some good bread and you have a quick and tasty meal!

Crockpot Chicken w/ Butternut Squash, Pears & Cranberries

Yes...this is as good as it looks and can you imagine the aroma coming from your kitchen all day long? Try it!

Honey-Lime Quinoa Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Not gonna lie, this was not one of those quick and easy meals, but they taste amazing and are so good for you!

Sausage, Potato and Spinach Soup

I just made this soup last week for the first time. Everyone in the fam loved it! To save some time I bought chicken sausage links and cut them up into pieces. The chicken sausage was just a regular sweet Italian rather than the spicy the recipe called for. I also added a can of  White Northern beans for just an added flavor. I would think this would freeze well too. Will have to try that!

Black Bean Quinoa Salad

This makes a great small meal or would be perfect for a side dish at a party. I love the sweet and tangy taste of this salad....even the Hub's liked it! He was skeptical at first. This dish says Spring or Summer salad to me! So much flavor! 

Carrot Apple Bread

Okay...so I know this isn't a meal, but I made this last week and it was delicious. It didn't call for a whole lot of sugar either. So it is not only tasty, but healthy with the carrots and apples. I was too lazy to grate the apples, so I just chopped them into tiny pieces. 

So these have been some of my go-to Pinterest meals this past year. How about all of you? Any recipes that I need to know about stat? I am thinking of trying some freezer meals before these babes get here. I need to stock up!

Last Minute Valentine's Ideas

Well hello! I promise I haven't fallen off the face of the earth. Who knew all the appointments, classes and tours that come with expecting babies!? Not me...obviously. I told my husband it is like having another full time job just keeping up with appointments. Y'all never warned me!

Well I am back today to talk Valentine's Day. My mom always made Valentine's Day special. She still makes a pot roast and her most delicious heart bread to this day. We will be gathering with family on Saturday night to celebrate.

Last year I hosted a Valentine's Tea for all of my sweet friends. You can see the details Here. I so wanted to do that again this year, but really at 28 weeks pregnant... I don't have the energy. So I have been searching some fun last minute ideas to share with all of you instead!


1. Peanut Butter Cup Rice Crispy Treats
Of course I had to start with something yummy! I think I might have to make this tomorrow and I can guarantee I will be eating half of the recipe myself! Stop on over to Inspired by Charm for the details!

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2. Free Printables:  Valentines Cards & Envelopes
These are absolutely adorable. I love that they can be interchanged and feel more personal than buying a card from the store. Plus they save big money! Have you noticed how expensive cards are now a days? Download this full set Here.

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3. 52 Reasons I Love You

What a fun and inexpensive gift idea! You could create this for your significant other or for your child. I started working on this one for the Hubs. We will see if I can finish it in time. All you need is a deck of cards, a hole punch and a ring clasp (which you can find at staples). You can either type the words or write them with a sharpie. Tutorial Here. 

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4. DIY XOXO Table Cloth or Runner

What a fabulous idea! If you are staying in for Valentine's Day this year or just want to make breakfast extra special for the kids, why not create your own table cloth or runner. It doesn't have to be expensive. Use an old sheet or left over fabric laying around the house. Add some black paint and presto......

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5. Donut Hole Breakfast Skewers

These would be so easy and so much fun for kids. And...the fruit counteracts the donuts...right?

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Also...do you need a little help on what to wear for Valentine's Day? My friend Megan put together two great outfits that are casual enough for a stay at home party or a night out at a friend's house. You can check out the sources here. If I wasn't preggo I would be buying that adorable Red Cami! And how comfy does that heart sweater and boyfriend jean combo look?

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So what are you all up to for Valentines this year? I am thinking we are going to celebrate tomorrow night and try to avoid some of the crazy crowds. Or...we are going to order pizza in with a movie. That actually sounds so delightful! 

XOXO

Tuesday Treats #22 {Inspiration from around the web}

How are you all holding up today? We have officially took a dive into September. I know for some of you this is bittersweet. Saying good bye to summer is hard, but craving for more of a routine is a must.  Some kids have started back to school today which gives some of my mama friends a bit of a break during the day, but creates chaos in the evenings for homework and activities. Thinking of you all today!

As usual I have been scouring the web for some amazing inspiration as well as fun DIY's that you all might like to try. Here are some of my favorites from this week:

**As a courtesy, please Pin from original source found at the bottom of each photo. ***

#1: DIY Marble Tray
How adorable is this colored tray? Can you believe that my friend Jen made this in less than 10 minutes with nail polish? I think this might be a fun girls night DIY. What do you all think?

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#2: Easy Piping Tutorial

Last week my mother-in law was in town. She is the queen of sewing..seriously! We worked on making the pillow below for the dining room. It was my first time adding professional piping! It is easier than it looks my friends. Make sure you go Barbara Huber Designs and follow the instructions. So helpful!

#3: Teen Office Nook

My friend Claire knocked out this adorable little teen office nook using wallternative decals. I love how she styled this whole little space. For the full post click over HERE. 

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#4: Modern Farmhouse

Okay my friends...you MUST take a tour of this gorgeous modern farmhouse. H2 Design and Build seriously knocked this out of the park. I love each and every space and I guarantee you won't be disappointed. So grab your coffee and soak in all the fabulousness!

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#5: Tomato Salad with Peach & Burrata
I absolutely love following this blog. She always has such great inspirational pictures of everyday life and shares great insight into motherhood. Last week she shared this amazing recipe that I think is a must try. Peach & tomato season are ending soon!

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Hope you all caught our blog hop yesterday! If not, make sure you stop on over to see all the wonderful projects created by these ladies: Sarah, Mary & Brittany

Tuesday Treats #21 {Inspiration from around the web}

Well it is back in the 90's here in NC this week. Our beautiful weather has now turned into hot hot summer. I wish I could send some of this weather to some of you. I know that my family that lives in NY really didn't get much of a summer. I am ready for fall...boots, light sweaters, windows open, etc. Until then I will stalk my friends that have pools.

I am back with another round up of links and inspiration from around the web. If you want to follow my weekly picks on Pinterest you can click HERE.


#1 Fall Shoes: 
Since I am getting ready for fall I am thinking a pair of slingbacks is a must. I love both of these looks for sure! Now the decision ...open toe or closed? What do you think?

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#2: Summer's 10 Best Grill Recipes:
I found this receipe on pinterest this past week and since it is peach season, you better believe I am going to make this grilled peach and portobello sandwich. Yum! For All 10 Recipe's click HERE

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#3 Kid's Milestone Picture:

I absolutely love the idea of taking one picture each year of your child and typing his/her likes and what they enjoy doing. It would be so amazing to look back at these photos and remember those times. I'm storing this away for the future for sure!

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#4 Fabulous Breakfast Nook:
How amazing is this light and bright breakfast nook. I am obsessed with the textures and neutral colors. It is such an inviting spot to sip some coffee, host a brunch or get some work done. Maybe my next house will have a nook. One can wish!

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#5 Be Yourself:

In a world full of social media, pinterest, hollywood...it is so easy to get wrapped up in trying to be someone else. The world would be a boring place if we were all the same. God gave each one of us different talents, figures, budgets, families and it is time to start being ourselves and enjoying the beauty that comes from it.

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I hope you all are having a wonderful week! Sorry posting has been on the light side lately. Trying to finish up some projects and deal with life. Sometimes you just need to step away in order to regain focus and motivation!

Tuesday Treats #17 {Inspiration from around the web}

Hello Hello! Your comments were very thoughtful yesterday. Thank you all for letting me share a bit of everyday life on this blog as well as decorating and DIY inspiration. I mean...where would life be without our families and those special weekends away? Am I right?

Today I have another round up of fabulous ideas from around the web. I love sharing what I find and I hope you enjoy this series as much as I do.

#1: Frozen Watermelon Popsicles 
How great do these look? I can see these being a hit at a party or something easy for the kids to munch on in the hot summer weather. All you need is watermelon and Popsicle sticks! Recipe Here.

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#2: Summer Entertaining Inspiration (by Ikea)

We all love a good summer cookout with friends and family.. don't we? How about this fabulous outdoor party space with tons of great inspiration-- from Ikea, non the less!! Those umbrellas make me smile and want to sip some sweet tea. Most of the products can be found at Ikea. More pictures and sources Here.

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#3: Bed, Bath & Beyond Coupons

So my friend Dina from the blog Honey & Fitz just wrote about how you can use your 20% off coupons for some fabulous online products from Bed, Bath & Beyond. We all have a bunch hanging around our house, but never have the chance to use them on something great and grand. Well there are SO MANY great items online that they don't carry in the store. Check out Dina's whole post: 20 Things to use your 20% off coupons on! You will be shocked at what Bed Bath & Beyond actually carry online. Below are only a few amazing items!!

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#4: Why Lighting Matters

I recently came across this article written by Centsational Girl. It talks about why lighting is important in your homes. Whether you are ready to splurge on something grand or you find a fun chandelier at Goodwill, lighting can make or break the look of your room. 

Here is what Kate says about lighting: Great lighting is like the jewelry that makes a fabulous outfit. Your lamps, chandeliers, and sconces are an opportunity to set the style of a space, to add a layer of texture (think industrial or woven shades), or to play the role of the unexpected element. Think of crystal chandeliers in a contemporary space, a minimalist modern fixture in a more traditional room, or an industrial cage pendant in a cottage dining room.

Click HERE to read the full article as well as see some lighting sources.




#5: Gorgeous Traditional Living room with a Twist
And since I can't leave you all without some fabulous decor inspiration, I found this lovely living room designed by Shea McGee. It has many traditional elements infused with some industrial and modern touches. It is the perfect combination of classy and comfortable.

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So what about all of you...any great inspiration I should know about?

Have a fabulous Tuesday friends!