Scenes From Our Weekend

Did everyone have a good weekend??  We sure did.  It was jam packed but so nice. 

Lets start with Friday.  Friday I finally busted out my Forever 21 Leopard shorts that I bought a few months back.  They are my new favorite shorts.  So comfortable and cute.  Of course now I cant find them online but I did spy these cute leopard  shorts,  skirt and dress.  I have seen the dress in person and love it. 

Friday while Sterling was in school I hit up Target and found the best stuff.  How amazing is this Mossimo Beach Tote?  It of course came home with me.

I also picked up these cute sandals.  I love the Aztec vibe.  Our store was pretty much sold out of them, they had like two pairs left,  a really small pair and one for my big ass feet, but they are still online.  I swear they look so expensive in person. 

{Mossimo Sandals}

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Saturday morning we went to Breakfast at Okra Grill.  I had never been before but Matt kept raving about it and wanted to take us.  It did not disappoint.  I had the Sausage Egg Benedict with Pimento cheese grits, just incredible.

Saturday afternoon we went to Taylor's first Birthday party, I of course did not snap one pic but you know Caycee had a photographer so I am sure there will be plenty of pics on her blog.  I did what I do best and made a mean cheese plate for her party.

Saturday night we babysat for my sister so she and her hubby could go out and celebrate their anniversary. I was in heaven snuggling with my nephew all night and Sterling could not get enough of him.

This was Sterling's attempt to snap a picture of me and Finley.

I found the most gorgeous hydrangea at Lowes- I had never seen a tall one like this.  We put it on our front porch and are loving the pop of color.

 I whipped up a few loaves of our favorite Strawberry bread.  This is the best bread ever- you can get the recipe Here.

Then of course we had to whip up something tasty for Cinco de Mayo.  We made our Shrimp Tacos with Pineapple Avocado Salsa + Mexican Corn.

Lastly, can we discuss Chris Martin's hot body?  Who knew he was rocking a body like that?  Do you think he works out with Tracey Anderson too?

Happy Monday.  At least the sun is finally out here!

xoxo

Total Money Makeover- Part One and Cinco de Mayo

I still can't get over the response from my debt post last week and the comments are still rolling in.  Most of you said you would be interested in me sharing what I am doing and what works.  Obviously I don't know what works yet because I am just getting started but as promised per May 1,  I am buckling down and getting real.  Here are my first plans of action:

ONE: KEEP TRACK OF ALL EXPENSES/ 

BE ACCOUNTABLE

Confession, I never balance our checkbook or keep up with receipts.  I occasionally check our bank account once a week to view the balance.  Totally irresponsible.  Another confession, I am not sure how much debt we have exactly.  I have a ballpark idea but I avoid looking at the credit card balances- out of sight out of mind used to be my mentally.  So for this first month I am going to write down all our household expenses and all our credit card debt to see what we are spending a month.  I am also going to write down every single purchase I make to see where the money goes.  

I bought this 3 ring binder at Target to help me get organized and keep track of this stuff- because doesn't cute stuff help you stay organized too:)  The little dots make me happy everytime I look at them.

TWO: USE NO CREDIT CARDS

We are actually one month down on this part we used no credit cards last month and hope we can continue this so we can pay them down.

THREE: READ DAVE RAMSEY TOTAL MONEY MAKEOVER

Meg who works with Dave Ramsey was sweet enough to mail me the Total Money Makeover this week.  I started reading it last night and it is pretty eye opening.   It is filled with so many personal experiences from other families that are so inspiring.  There are so many people way worse off than us that accomplished his plan and are now debt free.  I want to finish reading it and try to follow his rules.

 They were also kind enough to send Sterling three piggy banks- one for saving, one for spending, and one for giving so he can learn early.  Such a great idea.  He absolutely loved them and spent alot of time yesterday filling them up.  His favorite one was the "Save" one, so not like his Mama:)

Nothing too crazy for my first month, I think all of this is pretty doable.  I will report back next month.  I am thinking maybe once a month I will share what is working unless ya'll get bored with it.

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Cinco de Mayo is this weekend and it is one of my favorite Holidays because duh, I love Mexican Food and tequila.  These two recipes I saw floating on Pinterest need to happen.  Of course they both need to be served with a side of straight tequila.  Who needs margaritas I just want the tequila!

{Roasted Veggie Tacos +  Spicy Queso Fresco Guacamole}

We have such a fun weekend ahead.  My sister and her husband are in town with my nephew- its his first trip to Charleston at one month old!  Can't wait to snuggle with him all weekend.

and Happy almost Birthday to this beautiful baby, Taylor.  I feel like it was just yesterday Caycee had her.  We will be celebrating that sweet face at a party tomorrow that I know will be over the top fabulous because Caycee has been planning it for months now!  Girl loves to throw a party.

On My Nightstand, What I Have Been Reading

I am such a book worm at heart. I love nothing more than to curl up in bed with a good book.  Here is what I have read lately.  What have you been reading?

SAFE HAVEN- I always love Nicholos Sparks books.  They are such good, easy reads.  I read this book in like 3 days.  Kind of want to see the movie now but I know the book is always better.

MRS. KENNEDY AND ME- I absolutely loved this book.  It was such an interesting insight into the Kennedy's private life.  I seriously could not put it down.  Jackie has always been such an inspiration to me and this made me admire her even more.

GRACE CODDINGTON A MEMOIR- This was such a fun behind the scenes look into the fashion world, especially Vogue.  I loved reading about all the famous models and fashion shoots.

GREAT GATSBY- Like most of you I had to read this years ago for school.   I think I liked it but it was so long ago its hard for me to remember.   I just recently picked it up again because I want to read it again before I see the movie- how good does the movie look?

DRINKING AND TWEETING- I am a little ashamed to admit I read this book, But I won't lie I love the housewives.  It was the first book I downloaded for my Kindle.  It was such an easy read.  It feels just like Brandi is talking to you.  It had alot of good gossip on LeeAnn and Hollywood living.  Plus a whole chapter about her vaginal reconstructive surgery which- which I guess people really do???  If you like the Housewives it is a fun read.

THE HONEST LIFE- This book was such an eye opener to me about all the chemicals in our everyday life.  It has really made me rethink what I bathe Sterling with and products I use on my own skin as well.  I really love Jessica Alba and liked her even more after this book.  She is a great mom with a huge passion to start such a successful company.



Next up and cued up now on my Kindle is, But Mama always put Vodka in the Sangria.  The title makes you want to read it, right??  Reed is a columnist for Garden and Gun and this details her culinary experiences and travels plus is filled some pretty delish recipes.  I read 4 chapters last night and I am really enjoying it so far.

Butter Bean Dip

If you need a quick and easy app to toss together then this is it.  My sister and her husband turned me onto this and it is now one of our favorite apps.  It tastes better the longer it sits.  You will be surprised how much flavor this simple dip is packed with.  The mustard, onion, and garlic really pair together perfect with the butter beans.  My sister recommends going ahead and spooning the bean mixture on the sliced baguette in order to let the flavors soak in the bread.   We did it that way the second time and I think preferred it better.  I was eating this by the spoonful no baguette it was that tasty.  Enjoy!

:: B U T T E R  B E A N  D I P ::
- 1 can drained butter beans
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or chives
- 1 teaspoon chopped garlic (1 clove)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- salt and pepper to taste
- baguette sliced

Mix all ingredients together.  This is best when it sits about an hour and at room temperature.  It can be made ahead and refrigerated but pull out and let it come to room temperature before serving.

Obsessions

{EOS LIP BALM}

I had been hearing about this lip balm for along time.  I was at the Pharmacy waiting yesterday for Sterling's prescription and saw it front and center and on sale!  I bought the strawberry and fresh mint flavors (at Harris Teeter they are on VIC special for $2.50, usually $4.99).  I am obsessed.  They are filled with Shea butter and other natural ingredients and feel so moisturizing on your lips.  Plus how cute is the little container it comes in?   Highly recommend.

{DVF For Baby GAP}

Ok I will admit it sometimes I wish I had a girl simply for the clothes, they are just way cuter than boys clothes.  I am in love with the new DVF line for Baby Gap.  A few of my favorites I may just stock up and save for gifts. 

BATHING SUIT | WRAP DRESS | ROMPER | PLEATED DRESS | SHOES | BLANKET | ROMPER

{VICTORIAS SECRET COTTON SLEEP TEE}
I am such a nightgown girl.  Love to sleep in them every night.  I used to wear sleeveless ones but Matt keeps our house so darn cold I started wishing I had a long sleeve one.  This reminded me of the Eberjey version I wanted but for half the price.  I have seriously slept in this every night since I bought it.  It is the softest shirt ever and cute too:)

{ASOS FLORAL SWING DRESS}
Asos is becoming one of my favorite budget friendly websites.  I am obsessed with my Tie- Dye Dress from there and now I have my eye on this floral shift.  I love all the bright colors and I have been wanting something floral to add to my closet for Summer!

{IKEA HOGSTEN OUTDOOR ARM CHAIR}

I love these outdoor chairs from Ikea.  Really want a pair for our patio.  I need to hit up Ikea next time I am in Charlotte.

    {ALEX'S BEDROOM REVEAL}
I am beyond obsessed with Alex's bedroom.  I seriously love every single detail.  But that pink headboard and bedding are perfection.  Alex is such a true talent.
You see the whole feature on her bedroom HERE.
 

Thoughts For Monday + Winner

First of all, thank you all for the incredible response to my post on Friday.  I appreciate every single one of your responses and personal emails,  especially all the encouragement and tips!  I promise to share what works for us.

Before my official budget starts I treated myself to some polarized RayBans with some birthday money I had been saving.  Matt had been telling me forever I needed to invest in a good pair of sunglasses, one of the few things he will spend money on and I am cheap about.  In the past I just bought cheap ones and they offered no sun coverage.  These made a world of difference.  Love them! 

I am thrilled my girl Gwennie was voted Most Beautiful Person.  Haters Gonna Hate.  She rocks.  Erin wrote a great post about all the stupid hatred HERE.  I really enjoyed the article on her and the photos were gorgeous. She has such an amazing body.

After watching its a Brad Brad World last night, that I had saved on Dvr I am obsessed with Stacy Keibler.  Her body is amazing and she seems to have such a fun personality.  Watch out Gwennie, new girl crush.

Ever since seeing this house featured on One Kings Lane, I am convinced I need a mini tulip table for Sterling.  I already have the kids lucite ghost chairs.  Any ideas where I could find a mini tulip table?

Saturday I decided to hit up Lowes and try and spruce up our backyard patio.  I planted tons of herbs, peppers, and some flowers.  I really have a black thumb but I am trying to learn to be more green!  I was pretty impressed with my results.  Here is to hoping they don't die in two weeks!

Friday was school picture day at Sterling's school.  I totally had to bribe him to wear this outfit but how adorable does he look?  So grown up.  24 hours later he got the stomach bug.  Needless to say we did not have a fun weekend.

This is how much of our weekend was spent.  I hate seeing my poor guy sick, but I love how cuddly he is while sick.

Finally the Winner of the Rodan + Fields Night Renewing Serum is Ruthie!  Please shoot me an email with your mailing address and we will get the serum headed your way!!  Congrats!

Happy Monday!

Living Within Your Means

This is something I struggle with.  I am a shopper at heart and love the thrill I get from buying new things.   This has lead to the accumulation of some debt.   It is not from student loans or anything it is from silly, really unnecessary purchases.  I opened my first credit card in college and it has been a slippery slope since then.  I have paid off my debt several times (thanks to my parents, selling my first house,  and 401k) but it still manages to get charged back up.  I am not one of those people who charge up a card and pay off the balance in full every month even though I wish I was. That is the right way to manage a credit card.  I charge and then sometimes only pay the minimum (gasp).  Things need to change.

I think today's society has made it hard for people to live within their means.  Credit cards and lines of credit are so easy to attain.  Why not charge it?  I wish credit cards were never invented and that way people just had to live off the money they made.  How do we really ever know if someone can afford something or if they are living outside of their means by charging it.  The blog world and social media make this especially hard.  Everyone is always blogging about and showing off their fabulous houses, amazing clothes, gadgets, cars, the list goes on and on.  It is hard not to compare yourself and not to try and "keep up with the Jones."  You start to resent what you have and want more.

I am guilty of comparing myself to others.  I used to love our house and now it feels so cramped and small to me and I want a bigger one.  I keep seeing friends move into big nice houses and I want that too. It makes me envious and that is not a good way to live.   Some people would consider my house a palace because they don't even have a roof over their head.  I am lucky to have a house to live it wheter it is small is not. I am always wanting to buy all the fabulous clothes I see these bloggers in, but really I have not one but two closets filled to the brim.  I have to ask myself do I really need more or is this turning into greed?

 

Since having Sterling I have thought about this stuff alot more. and honestly I have cut back on my shopping since then but I still shop alot.  My child's future depends on how we manage our money.  I want him to be able to attend any college he wants to (although I won't be sad if he gets a scholarship).   Do I still charge things, yes I do.  Not gonna lie we live on commissions, no set salary from Matt's work so there are some months we have to use the card for gas and groceries to get by.  Other months we are more than fine.  and we would be fine all the time if we had a good savings account and no debt.

The point of this is, I want to become a responsible adult.  I want to think really hard before I buy things and I want to pay off my debt.   I am thinking of starting Dave Ramsey's plan.  I already own the book, Financial Peace, but have yet to read it.  Has anyone else used his plan and does it work?

The other side of this is I want to be grateful and happy for exactly what I have in this moment and not desire more or covet things others have.  I know I am lucky no doubt but sometimes I forget to thank God for all the blessings in my life.  Each night after I read my devotional I have been making a point to thank God for all that I have.  Yes it is not as much as some people, but really how much do we all need?  And all of this around us.  Its not what is important.  Its the people in our lives and memories we create that are important.

Starting May 1 I am going to attempt to start a budget and pay down some debt.  I will let you guys know what works and what doesn't if you are interested.  I also welcome any tips or advice you peeps have.   This doesn't mean I am going cold turkey and not shopping at all, it just means I am going to really think out every purchase and only use cash no credit. I will still blog about pretty things I just won't buy all of them!   Oh and lets all make a point to be thankful for what we have.

Have a great weekend.  That was your dose of heavy thoughts for the weekend- back to regular mindless posting Monday.

P.S I am keeping the Rodan + Fields Giveaway open thru the weekend.  I will announce the winner Monday.  You can still enter HERE.  Now I am off to shop before I start my budget:)