Little Woman, Little Home

She's Arrived.

2012-01-27T11:16:00.000-05:00

Way before I even got my Rebel for Christmas, I had lusted after and knew that I would get one of these pretties, when the time came that I got a DSLR.

Ya know...who cares if you don't have the actual camera, this mama was ahead of the game in the accessorizing department.

So comes Christmas and after the initial shock of "OMFG, I GOT IT! I REALLY GOT IT!!' the next thing that I did was head on over to Etsy to start my browsing.

I've been a long time follower of Ashley from XOXO Handmade and I knew the talent she had in the art of camera strap covers so she was my first stop. To honest, I did browse around a couple other shops but none compared to variety of Ashley's fabric and the impeccable workmanship her pieces are.

So last week when I got some extra 'me' money in, Big Man suggested that I should splurge on myself and get the little lovey I've been coveting. So I did and after a Twitpic of the progress and a short couple of days later this little beauty arrived in the mail.

These aren't the best pictures because I took them at night with not ideal lighting but I can't be happier with what I got. It's a teal and white print with a black ruffle and I lurve it.

Thank you so much Ashley, I love it!!!!

And if you have a DSLR than I highly suggest you pretty it up with one of these gorgeous straps. From when I ordered mine I see she has more options available and I might have my eye on another one in the form of yellow and white leafs. ; )

***

Go check her out....XOXO Handmade

***

Not compensated in any way, just sharing the blog love and a awesome product.

The Little Little Woman

2012-01-25T04:14:00.003-05:00

In getting the massive amounts of pictures I have jumbled in a old backpack sorted and stored, I came across a few that I thought you'd enjoy.

You know the Little Woman that I am today but would you like to see the little little that I once was...

That would be me on the left and my oldest sister T.

I was quite the little chunker wasn't I?

I guess somethings never change. ; )

My mom is going to kill me for posting this but let's remember this was the 80's when big hair and thick eyeliner was in style. Again, I'm the babes and a spaced out looking one at that.

Look at Pouty McPouterson....

I have no clue why I should look this way...I have money in my hand, a gold chain on my wrist and I'm rocking the shizz out of some crushed velvet. I'd say I'm balling for being a tot.

I've must have been a greedy baby.

I have a couple more cutesy baby pics but once puberty hit, Little Woman went terribly wrong. If you thought your adolescent pictures were scary, wait till you see mine.

Remember It's Pat from SNL...I sadly strike a eerily similar look..gahhhh.

A Few Open Letters...

2012-01-24T03:56:00.010-05:00

Dear Bloggers,

Stop being so mean, bitchy, and petty with each other. I've seen so much dramz lately regarding all things blog and it is pretty sad and off putting. If you don't like a blog...don't read. don't tweet. don't follow them!! Nobody is forcing you to do anything you don't want to do so if your getting annoyed by someone else's blog than just stop interacting with that person. If you continue on than that is your own fault and you have no one to blame but yourself.

Along a similar line...

If someone doesn't like your blog....you know what I say... FUCK 'EM.

Everyone is not going to like everyone and I'm sure this blog is not alot of peoples cup of tea but you know what, it's mine. I might not always say the right things, have the best grammar, best pictures so on and so forth but this is me and my blog and you have the option to either meet and learn to love me or keep it moving. The decision is yours and though I love meeting new people and love the relationship I've made with some of you amazing women, I promise you I will not lose sleep if you decide to leave.

- Blogger just trying to blog happily.

***

Dear G+,

Picnik really? I am still pissed about this and the a-hole ways your trying to make people jump onto this. Nobody likes it. Unless you provide the exact same services, I will be not be joining forces with you.

- Picnik Patriot

***

Dear Job,

I am rethinking the decison I just put in for and will most likely shit myself during this whole thing. Please don't allow me to make that much of a fool of myself during this process.

- Stupid Stupid Me

***

Dear Meal Planning,

I love you and the way you have made me a more organized and frugal housewife but can you contact your friend Pinterest and please tell them to update their servers so I search for yummy dishes without having to wait and hour for it to load

- Frustrated wanna be foodie

***

Dear Washer,

You're an asshole.

That is all.

- Future stinky girl at work

XOXO,

Conquering The Computer Picture Clutter

2012-01-23T04:17:00.002-05:00

Since the pictures I take now a days end up on my computer instead of in photo albums, it was time that I faced the music and tackled the beast which is this...

It was insane the amount of pictures that I had downloaded and scattered throughout my desktop with no organization and no clear map of where so and so pictures were.

I have been just downloading and throwing them any which way it said 'saved'.

But enough was enough when I would be looking for a picture for a post and spend more time searching for said picture then I would on the actual post. So I took those pictures by there jpg's and organized and filed every single one of them.

Ahhhh....so much better.

Everything has a home and the 'My Pictures' folder is no longer the hot mess it used to be.

As you can see I split everything up into certain categories but I didn't stop there, my friends....nope mama was on a roll.

I also made sub folders for a couple of the more broader folders...

2010 and 2011 Folders were split up into different points of the year as well as special trips (NYC) and pictures for my Droid. This will make it easier for when I need to go back and reference or grab a certain pic throughout the year.

Next up was the sub folders to LWLH, ahem...this little ol' blog.

Of all the folders, this one is probably the most used and the one that needed the most organization. The majority of time that I spend on the laptop is with myself doing blog stuff so it was important that I organize all things related. All my blog design pictures as well as my buttons and banners that are in the extras column are perfectly organized now. I also made sure to have all my Picnik stuff in one stop (thank goodness) and a Project 365 to keep track of my progress.

There is a crapload of free printables out there and for something that spruces up for decor so easily, you'd be a fool not to use them. I use them and download them so much that I need multiple folders for them , as you can see.

And since they are great for this...

I have a folder within a folder within a folder for holiday printables.

Call me crazy, I don't care.

I obviously am poor person with alot of free time on their hands so let's call a spade a spade ; )

In all seriousness, I feel so much better now that everything is prim and pretty and put away. I spend a good amount of time on here and just like in my regular home, when I have a clear space...I have a clear mind.

This is not the most exciting post but organization is taking over this Little Home and all it's contents.

Now, I'm curious...do you keep your internet files organized or is yours a hot mess too?!? :)

***
P.S. How do you like the new look?!?
I know I only had the other one for a short time but it was too bright and LOOK AT ME for even me. I love this one so much more and def. plan to keep it for awhile. I think it looks a little more classy. : )

Project 366 - Week Three

2012-01-22T10:43:00.001-05:00

G'morning loves...

Hopefully this Sunday morning is treating you well and you're snuggled up and keeping warm. I know I am. I don't what it is but on Sundays I like to just be curled up at home with a blanket, the hubs, the pup, and the laptop. That may be why I get blog stuff done so much on Sundays. This is Week Three of ...

But before we launch into that can we please talk about this...

Since I get all my latest news and gossip through Twitter, it was only fitting that I found out that wee bit of information through there as well. Reading through peoples timelines, I was hoping that it was just a rumor and that is wasn't seriously true but after some clicking and reading...sadly it is.

Since I fear a certain company throwing down there internet gavel on my blog again, I will not mention them by name....but said company had bought out P*cnik and along with a couple other servers decided to shut it down. I don't know the reason behind it but in my opinion, it was a horrible one.

For me, it was a great and accessible site that was easy to use for a beginner that was just starting to learn about editing pictures. I used it in so many aspects of my blog. I made buttons, banners, collages....hell I even redid my blog design with it. I don't understand why you would shut down a popular site and site where people were willing to even pay for extra services.

I am extremely disappointed in this decision and am sad to see a good site go. I don't want to go to the '+' site as I find it hard to navigate but if anything I hope they offer all of the services over there and not just the ones they already have listed.

How do you feel about this?

What will you use, if you used this, when they are gone?

And if you didn't, what do you use to edit your pictures and make blog stuff??

Moving along...

Day Fifteen:

After some procrastination, I finally got my bedroom and closet organized from the ridiculous mess that it once was. It is still holding up pretty good but we'll see now that our washer has taken a shit. :(

Day Sixteen:

I am not a cook by any means but one recipe that I have practiced and in my mind perfected is my lasagna dish. Nothing fancy and I will never be a inch of what Pioneer Woman is but we all have to start somewhere.

Day Seventeen:

Having just received my first sponsored paycheck from the blog, Big Man encouraged me to treat myself and finally buy one of the XOXO Handmade ruffle camera straps that I've been lusting after. It took a little bit of back and forth deciding which pretty I wanted but I finally did on Thursday and can't wait to show it off when it comes.

Day Eighteen:

We all know that I am the internet whore when it comes to using this laptop but in times few and far between when Big Man can get his hands on it, it is worth documenting. Granted he does have a PS3, Xbox, and Nintendo 3DS that I never touch, so it's best he keeps his grubby hands off my beauty.

Day Nineteen:

The hubs took off Friday so on Thursday night we got our wine on with some assistance from my wine tool kit my brother got me for Christmas. And let me tell you, this thing is thebombdotcom. It so much easier to open my bottles with these handy dandy tools....give mama her booze!

Day Twenty:

Friday afternoons suck if you want to find any good quality programming and with nothing else to watch I tuned into the Casey Anthony saga. I hate to even watch that scumbag but I wanted to hear what her lawyers had to say. Bless that poor little girl : (

Day Twenty One:

Oh...you only grill during the summer? Not in the snow? After a snowstorm? At night? Wanting to grub on some cheeseburgers, the hubs pulled out the grill and made some up. It seemed weird to have it out but inclement weather does not rule over these hungry bellies.

How was your week?!?

To or Not To ?!?

2012-01-18T04:55:00.000-05:00

What is it you may ask?!?

Try for baby?

Donate a kidney?

Pack up my shit and move to Europe?

Well I might have teased you yesterday and with hopes that you would blindly answer my yes or no question but it looks like you are not that easily fooled. Sadly, if you thought it was any of thee above...you were wrong my dears.

I enjoy my kidneys very much and don't have any desire to move abroad anytime soon, and baby making...welllll I might ask you for help on alot of things but I'm pretty sure Big Man and I got that one covered by ourselves. My vagina sends its regards.

But getting back to the point, there is an important step Big Man and I are contemplating and I'm asking not for an executive decision but for some guidance and advice on the situation...

Yeah, a pretty big deal, right?!

It has been something that has been weighing on our minds lately and we are trying to come to an educated decision while weighing our pros and cons.

Here's a little back info for you:

We rent right now (obviously.)

If we do decide to buy, any rent we have paid thus far will be applied to the house.

One bedroom...1 1/2 Bath

This is one that has been bothering me because we do plan on having children in the near future and one bedroom is not ideal. There is ways around it and also the option to create another bedroom but I'm unsure. I know we could make it work but I need to know more details myself.

We will be in a good school district and still close to our jobs

This is always a plus

Though this is not where I want my 'forever' home to be.

Nice house but not everything that I would want.

There is of course many other factors such as money and stuff that I will not get into on here, but I am looking for a little help in what I should know and so forth. I know alot of you ladies are homeowners and I am asking you for any guidance you can give in this area.

I don't know how everything works or what I should know or research so please show me the way sensei : )

Dun. Dun. Dun.

2012-01-17T04:36:00.001-05:00

Dirty Girl...Bedroom Style

2012-01-16T04:09:00.003-05:00

Get your minds out of the gutter nasty girls.

We're not talking about the bow-chicka-wow-wow of our bedroom but rather the messy state of which we were currently living in. My mission for Organization 2012 is well underway and the bedroom was the first stop on the ride.

To be more specific, the closet was organization station #1...

Yeaahhhhhhh....about that.

Looks like things got out of control in closet a bit.

I'd love to say that this was a single occurrence but this is how my closet looks more often than not.

I try to keep up with it but having a messy husband and sharing a closet is not my ideal situation. So Sunday morning I was up bright and early and decided that it was time to pull everything out and organize.

Pulling everything out, I found quite a few things...

Quite a few handbags...

Lots of pencils and highlighters

A throwback wedding book along with books from college

Undeveloped cameras and throwback pictures (<-- I'll have to post some....wowser, I wasn't always the cutie I am today; ) )

In the midst of my cleaning, I did make an extra mess for myself when I picked up my shredder by the lid...

Not a good look, my friends, not a good look.

Moving along...

A couple hours, a garbage bag, and donation bag later....

It might not look like much has changed but to me, I can def. see the difference.

Of all things wrangling Big Man's tees and clothes was the most changed and improved. I feel so much better and at peace knowing that everything is folded and color coordinated and in it's place.

Like Mrs. Momma Bee...I also ROYGBIV my clothes and separate everything into tees, dress shirts, dresses, jeans, etc.

Ahhh...one down but many more to go.

P.S. We also got new sheets for our bed and they are ahhh-mazing . Those paired with our new fluffy pillows, now makes me feel like I'm sleeping at a resort everytime I hop in bed. Pure bliss.

Do you just throw your clothes all around like me or do you keep your sleeping quarters immaculate?!?

Project 365...Errrr 366- Week Two

2012-01-15T08:43:00.001-05:00

It was brought to my attention last week after I posted my Project 365 that this year it is actually not 365 days of pictures but 366. Due to it being a leap year, we will have one extra day to photograph this year so there's that.

I thought I would waver a little by now since I'm not really good at daily tasks but I'm still holding strong on taking a picture everyday. Though, I think I might challenge myself next week and try to get some more outdoor pictures. What can I say, I'm a homebody.

Before we start, here is my new and improved banner....go ahead, count, 3-6-6 : )

And now for the week of pictures....

Day Eight:

So what if everyone and their mama is riding hard on the Tebow train, I am not...and I am not afraid to admit. it. Black and Gold all day baby!!!

Day Nine:

Oh, how I thought The Sickness was gone after my last bout. I was wrong. I'm beginning to become quite the cough syrup connoisseur.

Day Ten:

My favorite face to photograph. Mia doesn't understand that she needs to stand back for me to get a good picture. No, she rather just sniff that weird thing in front of mommas face.

Day Eleven:

This closet is becoming the bane of my existence. I am pulling out all the stops and all the clothes and whipping this bitch into shape. It is need of a purge and some good organization.

Day Twelve:

Our ceiling in our bedroom that still has yet to be fixed. : (

Day Thirteen:

I don't wash my hair everyday because otherwise it gets super dry but when I do, I have to use the moist stuff. This is one of the few things that moisturizes this mane of thick curls. I am open to all suggestions to help a friend out the frizzies.

Day Fourteen:

I must have woken up on the right side of the bed considering this day was one of the few days I made breakfast for Big Man and myself. On the menu: Eggs, Bacon, Waffles...and lots of syrup.

And that is all....till next week, my loves ♥

Our Saturday Morning...

2012-01-14T10:51:00.000-05:00

Bacon

Eggs

Waffles

Dirty Jobs

Twitter

Fetch

Pink Lemonade

Sunshine

Cold

Debating

Woobies

We're not that much of exciting people on Saturday mornings.

What are you doing this AM?!?

Friday Funny

2012-01-13T04:13:00.000-05:00

via

Have a great weekend loves!!!

I Broke Up With Facebook.

2012-01-12T04:46:00.000-05:00

Boo-freakin'-hoooo, your probably thinking.

I've done it once before and for some it may look like I'm being an attention whore (and to you I say STFU beezy and keep it moving...) but in all seriousness, Me and Facebook were never meant to be.

I could care less about the new timeline...

...Or Farmville

...Or pokes

...Or random peoples birthdays that popped up every single day

And that was the point

I NEVER CARED

.....This guy says it best....

I would check it once and awhile but for the most part my profile was just a breeding ground waiting for spammers and hackers. I posted a couple of our wedding pics online and then later came to find out the tux shop we used for the wedding took the pictures to promote their business.

I probably wouldn't have minded if she had asked me, but to just blatantly take my personal pictures of my personal day from my personal and private page, just rubbed me the wrong way.

That and my abusive ex who wouldn't stop friend requesting and messaging me. That dude is a piece of work to think that would we ever be friends in real life or online after the shit he put me through. Ugh. Him and Big Man's hooker (ok she wasn't an actual prostitute but she sure dresses and acts like it) ex should def. get in touch with each other since they both have super egos and are super stalkers.

Anyways...the point is, I never really enjoyed Facebook.

It was one of those things that you just joined because everyone else did and to be honest I hope it dies out like MySpace did.

Go ahead and start throwing tomatoes at me now because I know that everyone and their mama sweats FB but for me, it really isn't my thing anymore. Do I really want my future babes seeing slutty 20 year old me dancing on the bar, on the internet?? Nahhh...I don't think so.

I'm not going to say that I won't ever have a Facebook again and be a hypocrite down the road if I change my mind but I highly doubt I will open my personal page again. I don't care that much for old 'friends' from high school to keep it and to keep tabs on them and vice versa.

Possibly a LWLH page but even that might be a stretch, so for I now I will ride or die with my ladies on the Twit.

If you want to find me there, I'm

@LWLH

Been Around The World....

2012-01-11T03:47:00.001-05:00

And ay yay, I can't find my baby....

Haha....remember that song?!?

Well this post is not about that today but about my new found love for all things MAPS, thanks to none other than Pinterest. Oh how it makes me feel crafty when I surely am not but I think a few of these are even LW accomplish-able. (<-- def. not a word but whatevs)

I'm pretty sure alot of these Mr. Maps would gladly come live with me...

Source: girlintheredshoes.com via LW on Pinterest

Source: nicety.livejournal.com via LW on Pinterest

Source: minimozblog.blogspot.com via LW on Pinterest

Source: weddingwindow.com via LW on Pinterest

Source: lifeblessons.blogspot.com via LW on Pinterest

And for some more fun and color...

Source: lifeblessons.blogspot.com via LW on Pinterest

Source: kikicreates.blogspot.com via LW on Pinterest

Be still my map loving heart.

Also linking up with Michelle for...

Help A Cruise Virgin Out

2012-01-10T04:08:00.000-05:00

As I might of said a thousand times already Big Man and I are taking our big honeymoon trip in July ala a cruise to the Caribbean.

To say I am excited would be an understatement...

WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO HOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!

Is more along the lines of what I'm feeling about it.

Unlike Big Man, I've never been on a cruise and don't know exactly what to prepare for. He is a man and has different views on things such clothes, shoes, excursions, shopping and so forth, so I am turning to you ladies for some help.

This what our itinerary will look like...

Mind you Big Man is from St. Thomas so he already has that one all planned out, but I would like to know what are the other fun excursions and shops on the other islands.

I'm also curious what I should pack.

I already know to pack lots of summer wear as we are going in July but for the fancy schmancy things on board, what is the dress code?!?

Do I have to don my prom dress or is a cute cocktail dress appropriate?

See I am a mess and will need all the help I can these next couple of months, to ensure that I am all planned out and ready.

Plus mama needs some new outfits and this is the perfect excuse.

I am also accepting Polyvore boards. : )

Help a bloggy sista out

♥

Christmas Clean Up

2012-01-09T03:56:00.005-05:00

I know that for most of you ladies, Christmas was packed up and stored away the day after Christmas. I was on my job too and got my goodies packed away before I rang in the New Year.

But for those of you lolly-gagging I thought I'd share some helpful tips in the name of organizing our homes and our lives.

The first thing I did when disassembling my tree was to sort and organize my ornaments.

I have a variety of ornaments from glass ones to dollar tree finds and even if they are $1, I still try to keep them in good shape and the thing that has helped me most are these....

This a container that I found after Christmas a couple years ago and that allows you to separate and organize your ornaments. I'm sure you could do the same with your own totes and some cardboard pieces but this was just more convenient at the time. I highly advise separating and wrapping your breakable glass pieces so they don't smash and break against each other.

Another way to also separate your ornaments is to do this...

Keep the original packaging it came in.

If your not too fond about going out and buying containers, than this is your second best option. It keeps all your ornaments packaged in their original boxes and with their original wrapping and will make it easier to distinguish what goes where when it's time to pack it all away.

If there is one thing that I run into problems with year after year though, it is how to control and wrangle all the ribbons and bows from the season. Every other year I just jumbled it up into a ball and threw it in a random plastic bag but this year, I got my head together and used a common little accessory...

Oh hey, bobby pin....your not just for my hair anymore.

Whenever I finish a roll of ribbon I almost never save the little cardboard cylinder it comes with. So this year when it came time to roll it up, I had to search the Little Home for something to keep it together, at that little bobby pin right there works like a charm.

I also learned that labeling all my bins with what room or whether they are inside or outside decorations helps alot when it comes to organizing and storing my bins.

And because I am super OCD about this, I also keep an inventory of all my Christmas Decor and Ornaments...

click to enlarge and copy to save

It may seem a little crazy but it keeps me in order and let's me take stock for when I'm putting them up and taking them down. :)

Do you organize your holiday decor any certain way?!?

Project 365 - Week One

2012-01-08T10:17:00.000-05:00

Welcome to the first week of

Since getting my Rebel for Christmas, I have been playing around with it and trying to figure out all the ins and outs of it. I want to learn how to take fabulous and beautiful pictures and the only way to do that is to get out there and take some. I want to learn all about apertures and ISO's and how to get a shot exactly how I want it.

Step One would be to actually read the manual and get acquainted with it, which I plan on doing this week but in hopes that practice makes perfect, I've decided to participate in the photography challenge Project 365.

If you haven't heard of it, it is where you take a picture every day for 365 days (one year) to document your life or whatever tickles your fancy.

So here is Week One of mine...

Day One:

What better way to start Project 365 than with a new banner for it?!? Since I don't have the moolah for Photoshop yet, I am a lovah of the handy dandy Picnik.

Day Two:

The disassembling of our Christmas tree *super sad face*. Though I didn't really want to take my tree down so soon, I also didn't want to worry about it after I got back to work. So off came the ornaments and packed away in the attic they went.

Day Three:

We've been meal planning and one of 'easy days' was grilled cheese and soup. Nom Nom Nom! If you know me, you know I'm a fan of all things cheesy, so this was right up my alley.

Day Four:

Our Mia Martian. Daddy always yells for her to get out of the kitchen but Mommy doesn't mind, especially if she stays still long enough for me to snap a picture.

Day Five:

This was the hubs mean muggin' me when we was coming in from the garage. He's not a fan of candid snapshots especially when I catch him in such an unflattering light...haha..he told me not to put this pic up cause it looked like he was going to slap the shit out of me. Haha.....don't worry girls, I'd whoop his ass before he could ever get mine ; )

Day Six:

Our sad dying Christmas tree left in the yard until trash day. She was so pretty at one time and now she is a washed up and put out like a old hooker : (

Day Seven:

Laundry Day!!! Stripped the sheets and threw all the clothes down stairs to get their wash on.

Well that's all folks.

Are you doing Project 365?!?

If you are, link up with Laura at Between The Lines...

I'm Being Lazy, Yes I Am...

2012-01-07T13:52:00.001-05:00

...I'm being lazy, bam. bam. bam.

Did you like that little diddy?!? Yeah, I'm a lyrical mastermind I tell you.

Not much going on in the Little Home as Big Man is fixing my car. Womp Womp.

So I am taking this free time on my hands to catch up on some blogs.

via

Please be prepared to be bombarded by comments from moi : )

And come back tomorrow to check out Week One of Project 365!!

A Low Key New Years

2012-01-05T04:21:00.000-05:00

I wish I could say we partied like rockstars and brought in 2012 with a bang, but that is not the case. We are farty old people who did relatively nothing to bring in this new exciting year.

I'll back up though and show you what we did New Years Eve Eve.

If you want to know, we had the pleasure of having this little handsome face sleep over.

My nephew G, is my little crazy boy and if you couldn't tell from the pictures below, he is a all boy with a ridiculous amount of energy. Thank God we have Mia to entertain him because I don't think I could keep up with him the whole time. I guess it is practice though for when I have a jacked up child of my own.

After some hop, skipping and jumping around, I was finally able to settle him down to play a card game of War and the Game of Life. He cheated the whole time, but that's a long game and we had some fun times ahead of us.

How cute are those little hands driving his car?!?
I think he had more fun driving his mini car around the game then he actually did playing. But I guess little boys aren't that concerned about choosing the college/career path, getting married, paying taxes, having a baby and moving into the big mansion. : )

We had a fun night with dinner at Mickey D's and also to burn off some more energy and then enjoyed the rest of the night at home watching WipeOut. The kid gets a kick out a people falling off those ridiculous props.

The G Man headed home on New Years Eve morning and the rest of the night was spent moving my mom to our house (long story...) and a little of this....

Big Man with a Long Island in hand and me chilling on the big couch watching The Big Bang Theory and my mama....

Curled up with her woobie and coffee enjoying the television entertainment as well.
We're effin' wild, I tell ya.
Please stop us before we burn this house down ; )

Big Man and I did step it up a notch and took a couple shots of Boilo to toast the New Year that was going to be upon us. Apple Pie Boilo is the truth, my friends.

I betcha can't guess which shot glass is mine?!? : )

My mama wanted to head to bed early so we left her relax at the house while we ventured a couple doors down to my sisters to partake in some wine drinking and a Walking Dead marathon. The show scares the shit out of me but I was a trooper for the night and actually need to find it and catch up.

Then as the clock winded down we tuned in to Dick Clarks and counted down with him and the rest of the world...

5,4,3,2,1....HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!

I love Dick Clark and bless his heart for still wanting to continue even after his stroke, but why the hell was he tanned out like Snooki on steroids?!? Not a good look Dick, not a good look.

And that was our New Years.
Not terribly exciting but fun nonetheless.

Hope you all had a awesome time ringing in the New Years with your loved ones or some random hottie at the bar. :)

January Sponsors

2012-01-04T16:15:00.001-05:00

This was a post that was scheduled for the 1st but due to the wonky-ness that is Blogger from time to time, it didn't publish. So instead of back posting, I decided that I will share my lovely sponsors today, albeit three days late.

With the new year in sight and a fresh start on the blog, it gives me great pleasures to not only introduce my January sponsors, but two girls who I consider dear friends of mine and if I'm being honest, my bloggy BFF's. I know if I was to meet either one of these girls in real life we would for sure be close friends considering our friendships online are more than I could have ever asked for.

But I'll quit my blabbering and let you meet the girls that make my heart happy and are two of my favorite blogs....

First up is Honey B. from the The Honey B. Blog

Like I mentioned, Honey is a dear friend and a blog that I love to see pop up in m reader. Her tagline...Life, Love & A Baby Bucket List rings true as she shares hilarious tales of the joke she has played on her husband, accomplishments of her bucket list and for an added bonus, you get to hear gems from a darling mama Queen B. And believe me you do not want to miss the banter between her and her mama. There might have been a story involving bunnies that had me slightly peeing my pants.

If you are a fan of laughs, love, and brutal honesty, than Honey B. is your girl.

Please check out her blog and be as equally entertained or even more than I am. : )

Blog / Twitter

Our next girl is another one of my besties and you may know her as Sarah of Something Lovely Designs

Sarah is a doll and is a devoted military wife to her hubster in Washington State. But don't think that her blog is just military happenings, no, Sarah infuses her base housing with some fab decor of her own. If you take a hint from her blog name, you will find out that she is a miracle worker when it comes to refinishing furniture and when you want to take something from drab to fab. I always wanted to be 'that girl' that could take a thrift find and turn it into something beautiful and having a friend like Sarah has given me inspiration that I can do it too.

She is a doll and her blog is a reflection of the awesomeness she is as a person. Please go check out her renovations and all her amazing house goodies along with adorable pups....GO!!!

Blog / Facebook

P.S. We need to convince Sarah to jump into the world of Twitter ; )

Thank you girls both for bringing the new year with me as Little Woman, Little Home sponsors. Your sponsorship is so greatly appreciated. : )

And if you would like to become a LWLH sponsor, I am now accepting for February so shoot me an email!! ♥

I'm A Sucker For Sadness...

2012-01-03T05:18:00.001-05:00

And also a movie whore who soaks up any and every love story out there.

So it should come as no surprise that I fully plan on balling my eyes out as I watch these two movies that are coming out soon...

A story of a little boy who is grieving the death of his father from 9/11 and an emotional look at how the boy wishes it was his mother and not his father that died.

I could already see the tearjerker material in this. With actors like Sandra Bullock and Tom Hanks and with a background story being the terrorist attacks, I know this will be one of the most heartbreaking stories of the year. From what I read, they said this was based off a book.....did anyone ever read it??

Another movie that I will most likely tear up at too will be this...

A story of a husband that has to make his wife fall in love with him again after she loses her memory in an accident. C'mon Rachel McAdams and Channing Tatum....it's like the Notebook/Dear John 2.0

I'm a sucker though and will be heading out to see these.

Does any one plan on going to see these?!?

Wahhhh...I Don't Wanna!

2012-01-02T16:21:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow I have to go back to work after a week hiatus and I am struggling.

Source: createfindadmire.tumblr.com via Nancy on Pinterest

Having a break like this only makes it that much harder to go back.

Gone are...

...the lazy couch days

...hours of reality tv garbage

...Mia snuggles

...Hubby snuggles

...and anything else I find enjoyable in life. : (

Yes, it is the New Year and my spirits are bright for the year ahead but that will all start with the countdown till our next shutdown and for our vacation (i.e. HONEYMOON!!)

6 months

182 days

4,368 hours

15724800 seconds.

No....I'm not excited at all.

And You Thought I Was Kidding...

2012-01-01T11:43:00.001-05:00

Remember on Friday when I posted this little gem of what I had planned for 2012???

Yeah, I am pretty ambitious....

Well I thought I would give a little more detail into what I had envisioned in hopes to keep myself more accountable. I've gave myself too many excuses but this year I need to take the bull by the horns and make the most out of my life and my health.

Here goes...

More Laughter

I'm a generally happy person but I believe nobody can ever have a shortage of laughter in their lives. Amirite? What I hope for in 2012 is too not sweat so much of the small stuff and to try to laugh as much as possible. Sounds kinda general and ehhhh right. Well I also wanted to share the giggles with you and share some funny stories or pins from time to time to brighten up our days. We all have our shitty days and that's fine but lets bring more funnies and less dramz this year : )

More Organization

Ahhh...I am a organization nut. I love reading anything that has to do with it and dream of the day when I have a pretty little dream home with every little item having its own little labeled home. For some of the long time readers you might remember a little series I had called Martha Mondays. I loved doing that but then feared Martha's legal wrath, so I stopped. This year though I want to clean up our Little Home and plan on sharing the journey with you. This may not be for all of you but this is something I am passionate about and is actually what LWLH began as.

More Trips

'Vacation all I ever wanted...Vacation, happy to get away!'

2011 brought two awesome trips in the ways of our mini moon in Atlantic City and our Christmas New York trip but 2012 is gearing up to be even better. This year Big Man and I are looking forward to our 'big honeymoon' cruise to the Caribbean and hopefully another trip to New York along with mini adventures here in Pennsylvania. So this is a PSA letting you know this little lady is going to need some tips and advice in the coming months.

More Money

I'm hoping that the words of Biggie don't ring true of Mo' Money Mo' Problems because Big Man and I plan on stacking some cash this year and plumping up our savings. With the help of two of my favorite bloggers Laura and Rachel and Mr. Dave Ramsey himself, we are going to snowball the shizz out of our debt and make this year the year we are financially * figuratively* free. We have big plans for 2012 and we need some moo-lah to do so, so wish us luck.

More Healthy Habits

I'm just going to say it...I'm a chubber

And don't try to tell me any different. This picture doesn't lie in telling me that I got some jelly round the belly (along with other places) that needs to be evicted asap. I'm disgusted that I lost weight last year but slipped into the same unhealthy habits and am now back at square one. I not only want a nice little figure to show off on our honeymoon but also to be in a more healthy state for what we hope for after the honeymoon ; ) Healthy eating and exercise...here I come bishes!!!

Another thing on that agenda, is to quit smoking.

Yuck, I know...but I need to butt this habit this year.

More Love

I want to show more love not only in real life but also in the blog world this year. So many women have given me inspiration and it is time to pay it forward. Stay tuned for the lovefest at LWLH!! : )

More Pictures

With my newest camera love, I want to get out there and learn how to use it more and learn all the tricks and tips for it. So to make myself more proactive and accountable I decided to link up with some other girls and do...

I'm excited to undertake this challenge and to get out and get good quality pictures. I won't be posting the picture everyday because I know I would forget about it and sometimes I already have enough pictures in one post, so I will be doing a weekly wrap up showing my photos from the week on most likely Saturdays.

So there it is.

I will give more information as I post about each of these things but this is the overview of what I hope for, for the new year.

What are your plans for the New Year?!?

Onto The Next One...

2011-12-31T07:53:00.002-05:00

We turn our heads and look to the future and onto a New Year, be safe my loves and take care tonight!!!

Should old acquaintance be forgot,
and never brought to mind ?
Should old acquaintance be forgot,
and old lang syne ?
CHORUS:
For auld lang syne, my dear,
for auld lang syne,
we'll take a cup of kindness yet,
for auld lang syne.
And surely you’ll buy your pint cup !
and surely I’ll buy mine !
And we'll take a cup o’ kindness yet,
for auld lang syne.
CHORUS
We two have run about the slopes,
and picked the daisies fine ;
But we’ve wandered many a weary foot,
since auld lang syne.
CHORUS
We two have paddled in the stream,
from morning sun till dine† ;
But seas between us broad have roared
since auld lang syne.
CHORUS
And there’s a hand my trusty friend !
And give us a hand o’ thine !
And we’ll take a right good-will draught,
for auld lang syne.
CHORUS

Happy New Year!
♥

Dear 2012...

2011-12-30T07:02:00.006-05:00

Hello new friend...Lil' Woman here and I thought we should discuss our relationship since we are moving so fast and you are ready to get this started in just a couple short days.

I said my goodbyes to my old pal 2011 yesterday and thanked her for all the blessings she gave and I thought it was only right to extend you the same courtesy and let you know what you are in for, and believe me it is going to be quite a ride. You see 2012, last year had it kind of easy considering I devoted alot of my time, money, and energy on the wedding but you, my friend, are a blank canvas and I am a girl ready to paint the world.

My friends over at Pinterest gave me a little inspiration with this pin as did Mrs. Monologue so let me show you what I have in store for us this year.....(*your excited, aren't you...i know are...*)

See?!?

We're going to have a hell of a year... Are you scared?!?

No?

Well you should be.

I am woman, hear me ROAR!!!

Yeah, to put it bluntly....I'm taking you by your metaphorical balls and making 2012, my year.

I've been sitting back for too long and saying, 'Oh I'll do it tomorrow, I'll start next week, Ugh I'm bloated not today, I need this before I can do that....blah blah blah!'

It's time that I cut the shit and really get my ass in gear and be not only the best wife I could be but the best person I can be. I owe that not only to myself but to my husband, my family, my dog, my friends, my readers and everyone else I care about.

So please stay tuned, because this year I'm not making resolutions...I'm making life changes! : )

Farewell 2011...

2011-12-29T16:32:00.001-05:00

It is the time in blogger land when we all take to the posts and remember the highlights of each month in the year past. This is a fun time because for the couple of blogs that I just began following this year it is the highlight reel of all the fun things I've missed.

Since your here, I guess you would like to know what my highlights were.

Besides the birth of my beautiful niece in February, alot of our year was preoccupied with the planning of this amazing day...

It wasn't all rainbows and sunshine as many times I thought I was going to have a mental breakdown in picking invites, dealing with vendors, and just the overall pressure of planning a wedding but I wouldn't change a single moment leading up to that day.

The beginning of 2011 may have been a little rocky with all the planning going on I will look fondly back on 2011 as the year that I became a wife and committed my life to creating a healthy and happy home with my new sexy husband!

After the nuptials we were able to take a mini-moon to Atlantic City...

Though it was a short weekend trip it was just what we needed after the wedding.

Another exciting thing that happened this year was that I was finally able to go first shift at my job.

This was a big deal because working my old second shift hours (4pm-2am) was taxing on not only myself but my relationship with Big Man and my family and friends. Though I am not completely satisfied at my job, I am thankful I have a job and that I am on a shift now that lets me enjoy my life a little more.

As many of you have seen from the last couple posts, we also celebrated our first married Christmas and enjoyed hosting Christmas for the first time.

This year, with all of its triumphs and tribulations has been an amazing year but I look forward though to this next year and for the many exciting things that will come our way.

What have you enjoyed over this last year?!?

One Last Look...

2011-12-28T07:01:00.004-05:00

Christmas has come and gone and for many of us...decorations are being packed away, trees are being disassembled and signs of the holiday season are being stored away until the next year.

This part of the season is sort of depressing for me. The joy and warmth that the decorations of Christmas bring are now abruptly stripped and I'm left with the bare bones of my home again. It's not to say that I don't like my regular decor but my holiday decor just adds that extra touch of coziness.

So before I bid farewell to my holiday home, I want to take one last look at it....*

Okay, this isn't our holiday home but I had to share the other Christmas gift that Big Man got me and surprised me with when we got back from our trip to New York.

That is my engagement ring and wedding band and you might be thinking...'Uhhh LW, we saw these before'...but what you didn't know was that the wedding band we used for the wedding was actually a fake. With money being extremely tight around the wedding, we decided that we would forgo expensive rings until later on down the road when we could afford them. And that time came for me, when we came home from NYC and Big Man surprised me with it under my pillow.

I love love love it and the best part is it looks similar to the fake one so people wo n't be confused when they see my wedding pictures.

Now with that out of the way....enjoy the last views of our holiday home....

♥♥♥

* - This was unnecessary but I just wanted to look at my decor and play with my camera...little excited, eh?

One Of These Things Is Not Like The Other...

2011-12-27T02:21:00.002-05:00

Well hello loves...

***wait don't click the x, your at the right blog***

As you can see there was a major overhaul to our beloved Little Woman, Little Home.

I have been thinking about re-doing my blog for awhile and I finally made the leap and did it. Yes, you heard that right...

I MADE OVER MY BLOG ALL BY MYSELF!!!

Not to toot my horn, but beep beep bitch.

I have been brainstorming ideas for months about how I wanted the new LWLH to look. It was quite the task trying to figure out the perfect colors, fonts, and overall look I wanted for my new space. If I may, let me take you through my thought process...

1. I wanted to keep obviously still keep my name and tagline the same. It fits us and I don't think anything else I could have came up with could sum it up any better.

2. I wanted to keep the theme of the pink house. To me atleast, that is the icon of Little Woman, Little Home and I wanted to preserve something that I loved from the old design.

3. Yellow Chevron....I wanted it to be a bright cheerful background and c'mon, who doesn't sweat the chevron print right now?!?

4. Though I loved my interracial cartoon couple and scene, I was growing tired of it quick. I've had it for a couple years now and it was time for a change and a transition to a more cleaned up and chic look.

5. More attention grabbing sidebar titles and easier to navigate Connect buttons.

6. I was also getting tired of the Label Cloud and numbers and how it cluttered up the look of my sidebar , so I eliminated that and added a couple links to some of my favorite and more popular posts.

7. New signature....ok it's the Christmas one but minus the candy cane :)

8. A new button and new footer to tie in the new look...

I was going to wait till the new year to unveil it along with a couple of other new things but I couldn't contain myself any longer and had to share the new and improved look of my sweetest blog love.

Do you like?!?

***

I have a new feature or two coming up in the new year so stay tuned!

Is there anything you would like to see more of on LWLH?

***

Still accepting sponsors for January!!!

We got $5, $10, and $20 spots open

Ring in the New Year in LWLH style!

Click here for more details

***

Thanks to all of you ladies out there...you are the girls that make me want to make this blog better and I hope you enjoy my company as much as I enjoy yours : )

The Merriest Of Christmas

2011-12-26T13:49:00.000-05:00

The celebration of Christmas at our Little Home went off without a hitch...

For how awkward I thought it was going to for a couple circumstances, it actually turned out rather smooth. I was also worried about this being our first time hosting Christmas but Big Man did a fantastic job on the cooking front and everything turned out delish.

First and foremost before I launch into our Christmas recap, take a look at this...

WOOT! WOOT!!!

I GOT A REBEL!!!

*Note: Don't mind my weird face, double chin, frizzy curls, or eyebrows in need of a desperate wax..ick*

Yes, the hubs got me the most wonderful gift of all and the thing I've been coveting most. He is amazing, I tell you. Thank you boob, you have def. made your wife very happy this holiday : )

Now I suppose you want to see what the rest of Christmas looked like...

Big Man infamously opening his presents with his eyes closed.

I'm so happy he loved all the gifts I Santa brought him.

He got a Polar Express train set, utility bench, Nintendo 3DS, Sirius XM Satellite Radio and shoes.

He must have been a very nice boy this year ; )

My Mama stayed at our house for Christmas Eve so she also enjoyed Christmas morning with us. She didn't want me sharing any unflattering pictures of her opening her presents over the internet so instead all just show you this picture of her giving her best sassy face...

Isn't she the cutest?!?

In the midst of morning madness while Big Man and Mama were checking out their gifts and preparing dinner, I took some time out to play with my own toy...

If you can't tell, I am completely in love with this thing ***squuueeeaallll***

After we were done playing with our gifts we headed a couple doors down to my sisters for a Christmas breakfast buffet and to see this little lady open and play with a couple gifts...

My niece E was pretty tuckered out shortly after we got there and took a much needed nap.

This was an exciting day for her celebrating her first Christmas and she was blown away with all the toys and people around.

My sister, BIL, and nephew also made their way up to our house to celebrate and open gifts too...

The little love of my life and godson G, was happy to know that Santa came to aunties house and brought the Batman Cave that this his little heart was longing for. He couldn't wait to open it up and start playing with it.

Isn't he handsome?!?!?

My sister T and BIL Smit also enjoyed their gifts...

My sister loved my Erin Condren planner when I got it and mentioned awhile ago that she would love one, so cha ching, there you go for a knowingly loved Christmas gift. My BIL Smit is the Irish man of our family so what better than some Irish whiskey....he's going to need it with my pregnant sister ; )

The rest of the family, minus my Nan since she's still in the hospital, gathered at our house to eat dinner and open the rest of the presents.

My brother is a goof as you can tell.

Everyone enjoyed the food, booze, and presents and fun times were had by all.

I was so happy that all of us were able to get together and share this Christmas all together as a family. It hard getting us all together but I'm so thankful we were able to this year.

I must admit though my favorite part of Christmas was this...

Just Big Man and I.

Everyone gone.

Dishes done.

Hubs mopping.

Me relaxing with my camera.

And wine in my future.

It was a Merry Christmas, indeed! :)

Merry Christmas...

2011-12-25T08:10:00.000-05:00

♥ Love,

Lil' Woman, Big Man & Mia

And I'm Done...

2011-12-23T13:57:00.000-05:00

After a busy morning at Wally World and Best Buy...

I AM OFFICIALLY DONE CHRISTMAS SHOPPING!!!

Joy to the freaking world.

To be honest it wasn't all that bad.

Big Man and I had planned ahead of time and actually got alot of our Christmas shopping done a month or so ago so that was a big help. Today I only had to go and pick up a few odds and ends and now I am all done.

Big Man, on the other hand, will be venturing out into the madness tonight to finish his shopping for me....haha...bless his heart. : )

So if you don't hear from me for a little you will now know that I am either suffocating under a shitload of bows or have a severely intense papercut from wrapping that seeks medical attention.

Happy Wrapping Lovies : )

Consider My Heart Warmed...

2011-12-22T05:35:00.000-05:00

I posted this wonderful happening on The Twit but I figured I would share this wonderful story with all for a little reminder of the holiday season.

On Tuesday, I was at work and received a phone call from a number I didn't recognize. Assuming it was my Mom calling from one of my aunts house, I called the number back. Surprised, I learned that I actually called WalMart. I figured Wally World was calling to say that I needed to come pay off my layaway considering they were supposed to paid off and picked up my December 16th.

But this phone call was a very different nature...

You see, Big Man and I had toys on layaway for my niece and nephew and sadly we didn't have enough money this week to pick them up so we just let the layaway go.

But that was Walmarts reasoning for their call..

A woman came in and paid off the layaways that had toys on them and mine was one of them that had been chosen.

I was amazed and immediately started tearing up. It touched my heart to know that there is still caring and compassion people out there. We didn't technically need the help as we could have paid it this week but it was such a thoughtful gesture. We plan on taking the money that we would have spent on the kids toys and will now go and buy toys and necessities for other families in need this holiday season.

So remember this year when your celebrating that their might be someone out there who needs you whether it is a Toy for Tots, a batch of cookies or just a shoulder to lean on...

Pay It Forward

♥

O Christmas Tree! O Christmas Tree!

2011-12-21T05:32:00.000-05:00

The time has come to show off my sweetness of the season, none other than our first married Christmas tree. Haha, I just like throwing 'first married' in front of anything this year...tis the life of a newlywed.

Anywho,

Here is the Little Home 2011 Christmas Tree....

I loves her. :)

Not the best picture but the best you can do with a phone. Though she's a beauty (atleast in my eyes) I can't get over that I ran out of ribbon at the end. Damn thick Christmas tree. Oh well, what are you going to do.

You see her from afar but the real stars of the show are up a little closer....

I mentioned before that if there is one tradition that Big Man and myself really follow every Christmas, it is collecting ornaments and ones with a special meaning.

I discussed in a little more detail what each ornament meant in last years O Christmas Tree post and you can can check it out there but they do all mean so much to me.

Of course since we collect new ones every year, this year was no different...

From left to right...

Cupcake: This will be one of the new additions to our sweet tooth tree

Mia Ornament: Yes, our furbaby gets a new ornament every year too!!

Hershey Ornament: We got this last New Year's Eve when we visited Chocolate World. I couldn't wait till this year so I could hang our Kisses carolers.

Hot Chocolate: Uh, what do you drink the most during the season.....?? Well mine is hanging right there. :)

And I had to share this one because it is my absolute favorite....

Our wedding ornament....to commemorate our marriage this year.

When I saw this, I knew I had to have it and was so happy when I got to scoop it up.

I also got a New York Ornament and plan on making a couple more before the end of the season (i.e. invitation ornament...loved the ones I've seen).

But for right now these are my little pretties!!!

Do you collect special ornaments or just go with color themes?!?

Sleigh Bells Ring, Are You Listening?!?

2011-12-20T05:15:00.000-05:00

It was taking me awhile to fully get in the Christmas spirit, but with just a few days left, I am officially on the next level of Christmas Crazy Person.

In a sea of cleaning products, wrapping paper, bows, ribbon, sugar, flour, sprinkles and and pretty much anything with glitter or calories...I am trying to get through this madness and the only thing helping is a this...

This is my Christmas music playlist and has been on repeat for the last couple days as I prepare menus, wrap gifts, spend time with the hubs and Mia and pretty much just enjoy the holiday season.

There is so many great Christmas songs out there but I'd have to say my favorites are 'Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas' by Judy Garland and 'I Don't Want Alot For Christmas' by Mariah Carey....and no I don't like the Biebs do over...sorry ladies.

What are your favorite Christmas songs?!?
What gets you in the holiday spirit?!?
: )

Christmas In The City...New York! New York!

2011-12-19T04:48:00.000-05:00

This past Saturday we packed up in the car and made our way from the country roads of Pennsylvania to the city streets of New York City.

I've been pumped for this for months, weeks, days, minutes, and seconds leading up to when we finally arrived and I could see the city line in the distance. I'm sure Big Man is relieved now that he doesn't have to hear..."I CAN'T WAIT TO GO TO NY! I'M SO EXCITED! WOO HOO WE'RE ACTUALLY GOING!"

Yeah to say I was excited was an understatement.

Before I start this though I must get a few things of my chest...

1. I could never live in the heart of the city. Now, that I've been there I now appreciate the much more quiet and less hectic street I live on,

2. I will never go there two weeks before Christmas again. I know that NY is naturally a very busy and crowded place but the Christmas hoop-la amped that up by a million, it was insane. I should have expected it but I was naive.

3. I LOVED IT

...and definitely intend on going back again and again!

Let's get this party started and if your not one for long, large pictured filled posts than this might not be the post for you. For the rest...buckle up bishes!!

As noted, this was my first time to go to the city and my BIL Dang was gracious enough to drive our group the two hour drive up there. We decided that the best option for us was to head into Staten Island and take the ferry across...

I've only ever taken a ferry once before and that was to Ellis Island in the 5th grade so to get on one again got me a little excited.

Mandatory group shots were also taken, considering this was the first and last time we were able to do this for the rest of the trip...

Don't mind the Serious McSeriousness faces from Big Man, Dang and my little brother.

They were little babies and we're cold and went inside the ferry shortly after me and my sisters photo shoot...pussies.

My sister and I are gangstas though and braved the frigid winds to get these pictures...

We were so thankful that though it was a tad cold and windy, that it was a beautifully sunny day out.

Loved being able to get good shots of the city, Statue of Liberty, and the Brooklyn Bridge.

Once we got off the Ferry, we were entertained by some street performers before we started walking and met up with this big guy with some even bigger balls....

Haha...C'mon I couldn't resist!!

I thought I saw that you were able to walk right up to him in the past but when we saw him, it was fenced off and not accessible. I was a little disappointed but I guess it was better for quality pics anyways.

After seeing The Bull, we headed towards the financial district which was the next closest landmark....

We talked down Wall Street for a bit and saw a couple of the landmarks....

Such as the New York Stock Exchange

I was expecting to see a bunch of the Occupy Protesters out and about fighting for their cause but sadly there was barely any. Even in Zuccotti Park there were only maybe 5 protesters, alot less than what I've seen on the news. Oh well.

While we were in the vicinty we also visited the Trinity Church...

And oh my word, it was beautiful inside there.

We didn't stay there very long as we were making our way to the World Trade Center Memorial and Site...

I only ever saw the World Trade Centers from a distance when I visited Ellis Island when I was in the 5th grade and to be completely honest, I didn't know the entirety of their importance in our country till 9/11 but is was quite a somber moment seeing a place where such a tragedy and destruction happened. I couldn't resist snapping a pic of the FDNY driving by and thinking about all those firefighters and the chaos that happened that day.

There was a beautiful bronze memorial wall across the street that displayed the events of the day along with the names of those who perished.

We didn't know that you had to get passes to go down and see the the fountains so we had to settle for getting a peek of them from a window in World Financial One.

It was really touching to see and I pray that the families and friends of the victims are still finding peace and healing.

After our visit there we rode on the Subway...

It was an interesting experience to the least.
I almost fell over multiple times since I didn't know the speed of the trains...yeah...I'm an amateur here. :)
But my favorite part was being able to people watch. There is quite the assortment and it was interesting to see how everyone was. I caught on quite quickly that talking is not really the thing to do.

Since we were riding the subway we thought why not make our next stop....

Grand Central Station
I watch too many movies because I was hoping a flash mob would break out ala Friends With Benefits but that didn't happen...haha. There was also a Holiday Fair going on so we walked around that for a little. It was a pricey one though so nothing was actually bought. This country gal is on a budget. : )

From Grand Central we made our way to Times Square...

Holy Sensory Overload Batman!!!
This was everything that I imagined it was going to be.
The lights, the sounds, the smells.....everything was on the next level just like I expected. We didn't spend much time down here because of the crowds and the fact that we we're all starving but it was awesome to see up close and personal.

Since we were dying to eat, we walked around trying to find a restaurant to eat at....

We tried Hard Rock but there was a 2 hour wait so we ended up eating at Dave and Busters, which was also my first time there as well. We didn't play but the grub was actually very good. The sun smoking a J was from Hard Rock and was something that I found picture worthy.

A couple of bloggers also told me to try cupcakes from Crumb's or Magnolia's but I sadly couldn't get the rest of my group to stop...: (

After we ate we headed out to explore more of the city and that is where we ran into these characters...

Yeah....people will obviously do ANYTHING to make money in the city.
I didn't realize they were working for tips though at first until one started holding up it's bag after I snapped a picture. And let's not even talk about the Minnie scratching her hoo-ha. Ewww.

After the crazy characters we headed over to Bryant Park to see what was going on over there...

They also were having a holiday fair and had ice skating which we stopped to watch and snap some pictures of. It was really cute and we were even able to get some shots of the Empire State Building from there.

The boys had to go to the bathroom and instead of going in the ones right outside of Bryant Park, we trekked inside the New York Public Library so they could go to the bathroom. I took a couple of pics but nothing too special. That place is big and beautiful though. I thought about Carrie Bradshaw while we were waiting inside.

We headed afterwards on our mission to Rockefeller Center and were able to see the GIANT ornaments along the way...

Though the city wasn't as festively decorated as I thought, this part absolutely thrilled me.
LOVEDDDDDD IT!!!!

As you can also see....we were able to see this as well...

Radio City Music Hall

We really wanted to see the Christmas Spectacular but we were slow moving on getting the tickets and there were no 5 seaters left. : ( It didn't matter though because just seeing all the prettiness of the outside was good enough for me.

Unfortunately, once we made it down here...this is where it became a zoo..
Ay ay ay
The streets were packed with people pushing and shoving and I don't know how many times my feet got ran over by a bulky stroller (btw, who brings newborns out in that cold and into a ridiculously crowded area??) and it all went bananas when we saw this....

And got here....

Rockefeller Center was fucking insane in the membrane...INSANE IN THE BRAIN!!!

We came out of the lobby of 30 Rock and were met by a mob of people. We were right under the tree but could not even see the ice skating rink. It was that ridiculously packed.

I tried my best to get the infamous tree shot but this was about as good as I could get under the circumstance..

The tree was big and beautiful though and that's all that matters...

After getting through the madness of Rockefeller Center, we walked past Central Park but all agreed not to go in since it was dark and we were all scared because of our memories via Home Alone 2.

Speaking of Home Alone 2....we also walked by and got to see this little landmark...

The Plaza.

It costs a pretty penny to stay there so we had to be the poor people we are and awe in it's prettiness from the outside. There was a couple right outside of it near the fountains getting very professional looking bridal pictures done. I'm not sure if it was real or is they were models but if it was real that was a couple with money, because her gown was gorgeous and her fur was big.

Right across the street from The Plaza was this famous toy store...

We got to see the infamous Big Piano and its players and even saw the most ridiculous toy and price ever....via a Barbie foosball table. Yes, your reading that right...$25,000!! Hells to the no. It was fun to see this toy store but again Home Alone ruined it for me as I thought going in it was going to be a bit more Duncan's Toy Chest. Ha...I'm like a child...I should really start to realize that movies are indeed just movies. :)

After FAO we made the trek back downtown (uptown? I'm not really sure...) to see another famous store but not before we got a couple glimpses of these...

The holiday decorated stores and window displays.
They were all of course the most expensive places like Cartier, Trump Towers and such but wow....they were awesome. I never seen anything like it and it was pretty cool to see how they all go all out for the holidays.

Our last stop belonged to this large department store and host of a famous Thanksgving Day parade...

We pretty much had to drag the boys here but we got here none the less and oh my they aren't kidding when they said a LARGE store. Santa was on the 8th floor and after a couple escalator rides later we were up to see him. We opted out of the 2 hour wait time for him and instead took the sneak peek walk through that allows people to view him through a window to take pictures.

While there I also scooped up a New York City ornament to commemorate our trip, which you will see later. After Macy's though we were all exhausted and decided that our day of fun had now come to an end.

A confusing subway ride and a hop back on the ferry and away we went....

Bless your heart if you made it through this but it was a trip I wanted to remember :)

My Sweet Tooth Tree...

2011-12-18T10:16:00.001-05:00

I will be showing our regular tree this week but in the mean time I'll let you in on my little sweet tooth tree, which is on of my favorite decorations!!

I saw something similar a couple years ago on the blogs of a girl who had a miniature tree in her kitchen with all types of kitchen and food ornaments on it and I thought it was such a cute idea. If there is one Christmas tradition that Big Man and I have and I am vigilant about, it is collecting ornaments. You'll see more of that but, for the start of my kitchen tree, since we have a small home, I decided to just stick to candy and sweet stuff since we only have a tiny tree.

Hopefully, one day when we have a bigger house, I can have a dining room one and make it larger!!

Anywho, enough of me...

Here's the tree.....

She's small but still cute...

This sits on one of my kitchen counters along with my holiday cookbook.

Let's take a closer look at the ornaments...

Cupcake on a Cake Plate: My most favorite ornament on the tree. I found this at Pier 1 a year a two ago and I couldn't pass it up. I loves you, my pretty.

Gingerbread Hope: Everyone needs a little hope and faith during the holiday season ; )

Piece of Cake: When I was shopping for my swap partner Jessica and found a cake ornament for her, I couldn't pass up getting one for myself.

Pillsbury Dough Boy: Woooo hoooooo....and a cupcake...look at that face, how could I leave him hanging on a shelf somewhere.

There are a couple more candy pieces and glittery cupcakes but these are the main ones.

I love my little Sweet Tree and can't wait to add more to it : )

♥

Little Home...Christmas Edition

2011-12-17T07:12:00.001-05:00

Being that Little Home is the second part of my blog title, it shouldn't surprise you that from time to time I like to show off the casa and some of the goodies in it.

Since it is Christmas time and I'm off gallivanting in NYC today, what better time is there than now than to show off the Little Home Christmas Decor.

(Note: Don't try to rob us...Mia will shank you, for realz!)

So without further adieu...

Our Christmas Little Home

If by some crazy chance you happen to be riding through itty bitty city in Pennsylvania, you might stumble upon this festively decorated house. I must give all the props to Big Man on this gem. He was outside for hours upon hours trying to get these lights exactly how he wanted them and if I do say so myself, they look amazing. Last year, we had just moved in to our house and really couldn't give the outside the love it deserved, but this year, I am happy with what Big Man accomplished.

I hope he knows there is no going back from this....hehe.

Santa will greet you as you arrive on our garland covered front porch as well as our pal Sam the Snowman.

Do you notice anything recycled and reused at all?!?!

Well if you take a peek at what good ol' Sam is standing on, you'll see that it is our hay bale that we used for our fall decor. A little white spray paint saved it's life for atleast one more month : )

Are you cold, my dears?!?!

Ok, we'll move this little tour on indoors....

I have many Christmas knick knacks here and there but these three beauties are perched on my shelves. Our Santa snowglobe lights up but my favorite is the Snowman one because it plays 'Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas'....ahhhh I love that song

On our bookcases next to the door sits our stocking as well as these golden sleighs filled with glittery red balls. I'll admit, though sometimes Christmas decor can be a mess...but...I totally miss it when I don't find random glitter on the floor anymore. Our trusty Santa also stands guard next to our entertainment center.

I wasn't kidding when I said there is Christmas decor everywhere.

...Santa hats adorn picture frames...

...Christmas baskets fill shelves...

...Berry candles are placed about...

And of course Pinterest made it's way into my Christmas Home...

Ala free printables who keep my Snow Family company.

These has been one of my favorite printables by far...so far. It incorporates everything I love about the season into one cute Christmas word display. If your on a tight budget and want to add a little oomph to your holiday decor than scour Pinterest for free printables. There is sooo many cute ones and all you have to do is buy a cheap dollar store frame to frame.

Done and done! : )

It wouldn't be a complete Christmas themed home if snowflakes didn't make their way in somewhere.

Last year I was baffled with what to do with the gigantic mirror that resides in our living room but this year I took the snowflakes that usually go in our windows and taped them onto there. I also took our candy canes and giant bow and added those as well.

The red snowflake plate....I absolutely adore it.

This was a glittery gem (hard to see..) that I scooped up from HomeGoods when I used to live in Florida. It is hands down one of my favorite Christmas pieces. : )

From our living room we head on into the kitchen...

Merry Christmas...Happy Birthday Jesus...

To each their own but I'm representing for everybody : )

And last but not least...

Our festive kitchen table!!!

I love our plates and my 25 cent yard sale ceramic tree find. I also tried to go all crafty pinterest-y and made the little pinecone/ornament centerpiece. For a first try, I think it came out rather nice.

I do have more decor that you can check out here:

Christmas Decor 2010

Thanks for stopping by our Christmas-ified Little Home : )

Little Woman, Big City Christmas

2011-12-16T04:54:00.004-05:00

Tomorrow Big Man and I along with some family will be heading to New York to see the city all done up for Christmas....

I am so effin' excited.

I have never been to NY before and I am anxious to see how it is up there. I could say that I'm going to be all cool and boho chic and just act like I'm an ol' pro at this, but I am going to be a tourist mctourister and be camera whoring it up while I'm there. : )

This is what I intend on seeing...

Central Park

Rockefeller Tree/Center/Ice Skating Rink

Wherever these are....???

Radio City Music Hall

Ahhhhhh....I'm so excited.

For all my NYC lovahs, are there any 'must see' things or places to eat?!?

Help a sistah out! : )

Wordless Wednesday...Errr Thursday..

2011-12-15T05:18:00.004-05:00

The last and final touches of the Christmas-ified Little Home are done and done...

This past week I took some time and took pictures of my halls all decked so the question is....

WHO WANTS TO SEE?!?

Haha... Like you ever had a choice, of course your going to have to see silly : )

A Journey of Bloggy Friendom...

2011-12-14T09:00:00.001-05:00

Sorry loveys...I'm not here today!!

If you miss me terribly, you can go here and check me out...

I highly suggest you do since I'm sharing me and Erin's bloggy friendship ala pictures ; )

Plus, you need to go wish Erin

HAPPY 3RD BLOG BIRTHDAY!!!!

A Very Bloggy Christmas...The Reveal

2011-12-13T04:18:00.000-05:00

First and foremost, I want to thank everyone who participated with myself and Laura for...

It was a wonderful turnout and I am so happy with all the girls we got together and who got to swap.

But enough of the talk talky....you want more showy showy

(err...well that sounded creepy..lol)

No, you came here to see the wonderful goodness that we got from out swapping partners. : )

I was lucky enough to be paired with the wonderful Jessica from Double Everything and from the brief conversation I had with her, she seems like such a sweetie. Plus she is the mama of two adorable twin babes...seriously, go check her and her adorable little family

I couldn't have been more lucky because Jessica dialed in one two of my favorite things....

Monograms and Wine!!!

She pretty much has the Christmas key to my heart. ♥

The ornament is already hanging on my tree and for those who are curious, why yes, Big Man and my last name does start with an H. The wine glass....ahhh....the wine glass! That pretty little thing has already gotten some good use. I could not contain myself any longer and had to use it this weekend while I was wrapping some presents.

Somehow wrapping was much more enjoyable this year with my new little buddy.

Thank you again Jessica, I loved them!! :)

***

Now it's your turn ladies....show us your swap goodies....don't be shy ; )

Link up below and please share...this is what we all been waiting for loves.

Our Weekend In Pictures...

2011-12-12T04:14:00.000-05:00

It was a busy weekend so instead of being a chatty Cathy, I'll let the pictures do the talking on this fine Monday morning...

Friday Night:

Bingo with my sister M...

Nope we didn't win but we did enjoy our Kahlua White Russians that we smuggled in...mmm!!

Saturday Morning:

Big Man and I headed down to Allentown to get a little more of our Christmas shopping done. We are pretty much done except for a couple gift cards here and there but that is about all. There is a little glimpse of our wrapping paper too. So pretty, I loves it.

Saturday Night:

This is the car line into Christmas Village.

If you think this is bad, you should have seen it when we left. It was ridiculous. The line went on for miles in both directions.

This is Christmas Village and what gets people obviously excited where we live.

It's like the Griswolds on crack : )

But seriously, it was very pretty and was lots of fun to share with Big Man, my sisters, nephew, niece, and BIL. Hot chocolate, for everyone! :)

Sunday Afternoon:

My Dad's side of the family has an annual Christmas party and Sunday was the day for it.

Spaghetti plus lots of Italian side dishes....yes and please!

Plus, it was fun to see this side of the family that we rarely get to see. :)

Your turn....

What did you do this weekend?!?!

Todays Post Brought To You By The Letter B...

2011-12-09T06:43:00.001-05:00

December is a busy month, as in all of me and Big Man's weekends are filled throughout the holiday.

Today begins the weekend of events and this is what is on our horizon tonight...

Oh yes....

My sister M was invited by a couple girls from work (we work together) to go to bingo tonight and not wanting to roll there by herself, she invited me to go. I, being the awesome sister I am agreed to go but really she didn't have to ask me twice.

I've been going to bingo since I've been little with my Nan, Mom, Aunts, and Sister T (hello girls...we need to do this after the holidays!!!) and was even able to get Big Man to go when we first moved to Pennsylvania. That was a sight to be seen, click here, if you want to check that post out.

Since we are going with coworkers and one coworker in particular is a pain in the ass, we plan to smuggle some booze into the bingo hall via ice tea containers...haha. People may consider this an old lady game and I wouldn't tell you, you're wrong, but this little lady is in it to win it (the jackpot please..) and might possibly be a little wine drunk doing it. :)

While the ladies are off getting their bingo on, Big Man and my BIL Dang we'll be at home with the baby and will be teaching tiny E the art of making Boilo.

What is Boilo you may ask?!?

via

In the Coal Region of Pennsylvania where I live, this alcoholic beverage is a must have and is at practically every holiday party I attend during the season.

Boilo ( pronounced boy-low) in it's true state has oranges, pears, apples, cloves, and a bunch of other fruits and such and was originally made with moonshine. Talk about, knocking you on your ass but many people also used Everclear, grain alcohol. Due to it's high alcohol content, I'm pretty sure it is illegal in some places and I am sure they do not sell it in Pennsylvania at all.

They're are many recipes out there and each family and person makes it differently but we enjoy the...

Apple Pie Boilo

Think my apple cider on steroids out there looking for a fight and whooping your apple ciders ass.

Like I said, everyone does it differently and the via the picture above also has a different recipe but here is how we usually do ours....

Add 1 quart of apple cider (or 1 qt of apple juice with a half cup of brown sugar),
2 cinnamon sticks
1 teaspoon ground cloves
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg together
Boil for 10 minutes.

Noted: You can use a crock pot or do it on the stove top

Remove from heat.
After 10 minutes add a half bottle of 4 Queens Blended Whiskey
(this is not really sold much outside our area I don't think, but def. use this)
Cover with a lid and let sit until it it cools to room temp then bottle it and refrigerate.

This is at it's best when served warm....so heat it up in the microwave before taking your shot. : )

Ahhhh....I can't wait to get this yummy goodness in my belly....the boys better not mess this up ; ) lol

***
Rest of Weekend Plans:

Christmas Village with both my sisters, my niece and nephew, and BIL...so excited!
An Italian Holiday Dinner with my Dad's side of the family....spaghetti, get in my belly. :)

So if I'm absent this weekend from the blogs, you'll know why....I'll get pictures though, don't you worry.

Have a great weekend loves. : )

Sent: North Pole

2011-12-07T05:27:00.001-05:00

I might not have sent Santa my letter yet, but I'm sure if he checks out my past blogs and tweets, he will know exactly what I want. But this post isn't about my obsession and want want want for a Canon Rebel, no, this post is about snail mail and all the goodies that come with this season.

That is another one of the reasons, I love this time of year!

Not only are we gathering around with the ones we love more, but we are sending pretty packages, Christmas letters, and my favorite....Christmas cards!!

I love coming home from work each day and finding a little array of holiday cards in my mailbox, it seriously puts the biggest smile on my face.

My family really doesn't send out that many cards, so alot of mine come from other bloggers....and those are the best. I love seeing a personalized Christmas card from my favorite bloggers when I open up my mail and see you and your husband or your precious babes at the middle of the day. : )

And that's why I would love to swap cards with anyone of you who are interested.

I have a good couple extra so I thought it would be fun to swap with some of my fave bloggy loves.

If your interested, email me your info at:

littlewomanlittlehome{at}gmail{dot}com

And I will return with my info to swappity swap these cute cards : )

Happy Wednesday loves...

♥

Christmas Tree Hunt 2011 : )

2011-12-06T05:23:00.001-05:00

This past weekend Big Man and myself along with my sister, BIL Dang and niece E headed to the Christmas tree farm to pick out the prettiest of trees.

We started off by taking a walk around the entire property to get a lay of the land and to make sure we didn't miss any of the good trees...

Big Man took this job very seriously, as you browsed and check the inter-working of the trees,

Anytime I tried to point out this or that tree, I was shut down by a 'No, it's brown on the inside, it's already dead....' Oh boy, sorry Sgt. Christmas Tree. : )

My sister on the other is like my self and just wanted to have fun and take pictures. Ha, isn't that always the case. Boys, care about the mission at hand where as girls just want to take pictures and enjoy the moment. My niece E, was just maxin' ad relaxin' and just taking it all in....

Their dog Bella came along too.

Funny story...my BIL decided to see if Bella could pull the Christmas tree cart with the Christmas tree in and let me tell you, that was the most hilarious thing I saw all day. She looked like one of those horses who carried chariots back in the day and hell, if she ever doesn't want the housedog lifestyle, she has a future in that.

Anywho...

After a little bit of searching on each of our parts we found THE tree and it was time for the boys to saw them down...

They were going balls to the wall on sawing and my hubster won the 'get the tree down first' contest. Just like boys to make everything a competition.

These couple moments of seriousness though were quickly upstaged by ridiculous boy antics...

These two are nuts let me tell you.

Since we found our Christmas tree, the only thing left to do was a photo shoot (win for LW)...

.Comp cutesy wutsy pic and then we dialed up the mushyness up a notch.....meooowwww ; )

It was such a gorgeous day and I'm so glad we got to go that day and get our tree.

Next up: Decking The Halls :)

Dear Santa, My Cookies Need A Boyfriend.

2011-12-05T04:04:00.002-05:00

Thanks to Duncan Hines for sponsoring my writing. There's no limit to the baking possibilities, so grab your favorite Duncan Hines mix and Comstock or Wilderness fruit fillings and Bake On! www.duncanhines.com.

***

I have quite the dilemma on my hands ladies.

With only twenty some odd days left till Christmas, I am in Bakezilla mode trying to get our menu and desserts ready for the big day and it has gotten me in quite a tizzy, let me tell you.

See, it wouldn't be a problem any other time.

I would whip up some goodies and toss some milk in front of the hubs without even batting an eyelash but this year is an important one for us. Not only is this our first married Christmas but also our first time hosting family for the holidays.

My Nan used to hold all of our holiday events but now since she is getting up in age along with health problems, us kids are taking the reins and Christmas will be me and Big Man's time to shine. You already know that I don't know my way around the ins and outs of actual 'cooking' so I have hired and assigned myself as the baking and dessert chef of day and will making little baking miracles. ; )

The problem that I'm running into though is, what drinks to serve while my guests are digging into the desserts?!?

Love my little gingerbread man mug, though I kinda feel like I'm sucking the life out of his brain when I'm drinking hot chocolate...haha

I'm sure that the boys will be down in the bar boozing by some point in the night but while were still keeping it classy I would like to serve some yummy winter favorites.

I plan on making an assortment of cake balls, cookies, brownies, and possibly pies but I'm finding it hard to narrow down my drink list to what people would like to wash their yummyness down with. Big Man loves my red velvet cake balls, my mom adores my chocolate chip cookies and my nephew will never pass up a cupcake with massive amounts of frosting but the whole 'experiecnce' has not come full circle yet.

Cookies and Milk, of course, if only for tradition.

But I'm also thinking of apple cider, hot chocolate, and egg nog as other options as well. I will have sodas and juices on hand for the crazies that don't like holiday drinks and for the kiddies but I want to create an atmosphere and have desserts and drinks that everyone will enjoy.

I'm trying to make a good hosting first impression and I need you ladies to help me....

What do you drink with your holiday desserts?

Is there secrets or tips that you care to share with your favorite Christmas lovie?!?

Pretty please, with frosting and sprinkles on top : )

***

Remember to check out Duncan Hines' website www.duncanhines.com to find some great recipes for your holiday get-together! I was selected for this sponsorship by the Clever Girls Collective.

And We Found It...

2011-12-04T09:46:00.000-05:00

The Christmas Tree, that is! : )

We're still busy putting up decorations and drinking hot chocolate but I will be posting about our Christmas Tree Hunt 2011 soon. : )

Hope you lovies are having a great weekend!

Off To The Christmas Tree Farm We Go...

2011-12-03T09:47:00.000-05:00

Today Big Man and I are going to get our Christmas tree, and I couldn't be anymore excited.

You see, we decorated our house last weekend in preparation for the holiday season but as I looked around, it still looked empty and it just didn't feel right. I was racking my brain and pestering Big Man with questions of...

'Did we lose some our decorations?'

' I thought I had more of these last year.'

'Seriously Big Man, where the eff are all my decorations?!?'

After driving myself and him crazy for the whole day wondering why our house didn't feel as festive as last year, we ~~(ok, he did)~~ came to the conclusion that our holiday Little Home was missing the main event, which is...

The Christmas Tree

Last year we missed out on getting it at a local farmer and ended buying it on the side of the road next to a McDonald's. But even for it's sketchy locale we still got a very pretty tree...

But this year, we are rising bright and early and heading out to the Christmas tree farm and cutting down our own Christmas tree, dammit! : )

Since our move from Florida to Pennsylvania, Big Man and I decided that we will now only get real trees since we have more of the option too. Down in Florida, there wasn't many tree farms but up here there is an abundance, so off we go.

Did you get your tree yet?!?

Real or fake?!?

Everyone Please Welcome...

2011-12-01T04:44:00.000-05:00

This is my first month ever offering sponsorship and I am so proud to announce that we have two lovely ladies from different genres here to showcase themselves this month.

I am now accepting sponsors for January so please email me at

littlewomanlittlehome{at}gmail{dot}com

if your interested in reserving a spot : )

Moving along to our sponsors, our first introduction goes to Abenaa from Infinity Line...

Get to know her and her company....

Infinity Line started in 2009 by two sisters as just a candle company and we are slowly expanding to alot of other things. We came up with the idea of making our own candles because whenever we would buy big name candles, they would smell great but when we got them home to burn them they would never give off a great, strong smell Our candles have no harmful chemicals , They are made of soy wax and the wax is made in the United States, our candles last longer than paraffin wax candles and our lead is lead free. Our candles they give off a great smell when they are burning and also when they are just sitting out! So its always a win win situation! We have also expanded to bath and body products! These products that we have a are all natural. No harmful chemicals. No parabens. Anyone can use them and its even better for people who have sensitve skin. Making homemade products is our passion! We love what we do it hopefully one day it will become more than just a hobby

I'm all for as least chemicals as possible and I know many of you are as well.
If your interested in learning more or purchasing please visit Infinity Line

Our next sponsor is the lovely Becky from Because Chocolate Can't Get You Pregnant blog...

Get to know Becky....

Hi, my name is Becky and I'm from "Because Chocolate Can't Get You Pregnant." I'm the queen of everything random when it comes to blogging. I love blogging about everything little or big from cooking, sewing, crafts, decorating, and home improvements. I love everything homemade and original because I love stretching my dollars and using my creative side for our home. My darling husband and I have been married since April 2008 and we bought our first home in 2010. There is always something to do or fix when it comes to owning a home and no project is too big or too small for us to handle. Sometimes each project seems to take a little longer than expected, but it's always worth the wait. I'm proud to say that I decorated the majority of our home on a super cheap budget. I love finding deals at the local flea market or garage sales and sprucing them up with a little fresh coat of paint or refurbishing it for a different purpose. The possibilities are endless at my blog and I would love for you to follow me!

Becky and I have been following each other for awhile and I will tell you that I am always entertained with the blog material she has, whether it be her adorable dog Sammie or her hilarious hubby, Art.

Stop by and follow along with Becky's random adventures at Because Chocolate Can't Get You Pregnant.

Thank you ladies for being the first of hopefully many sponsors : )

If your looking for more information on sponsoring click here or email at littlewomanlittlehome{at}gmail{dot}com

: )

And It Starts...

2011-12-01T04:40:00.000-05:00

Today marks the beginning of

I get my fix of ABC Famiily when I catch up on my guilty pleasure of Secret Life but I look forward to this time of year of so I can catch all the good movies they play during the holiday season.

I doubt I will get Big Man on board but I am going to try to get Big Man to watch atleast two of these movies a week with me. He says I try to rush the season and try to do too much too soon but if it were up to him we would only watch and listen to all things Christmas, only on Christmas.

Bah humbug to that.

So tonight, I shall pursue the DVR and see if this nights movie is worth the effort.

I must pick my battles, and I shall pick them wisely : )

Too Soon...

2011-11-30T04:43:00.000-05:00

Umm....hells no

It's

And this little lady has been waiting to show off all the Christmas goodies I've been pinning to my little hearts desire. Since I have an obsessive love we'll start off with the Christmas wreaths since I've been seeing so many ornament ones lately.

Be still my heart...

Source: goodhousekeeping.com via LW on Pinterest

Source: etsy.com via LW on Pinterest

Source: organized-design.com via LW on Pinterest

Source: frugalhomedesigns.com via LW on Pinterest

Now if someone could make these and send them to me, I would forever be grateful.

Please and thank you.

: )

Puppy Presents : )

2011-11-29T04:07:00.000-05:00

I want to start this by showing my precious pup and furbaby Mia off....

This was her last year when we went to go visit Santa and she got to sit in the sleigh to get her model on.

Let's just bask in her cuteness for awhile.....

Ooohhh....Ahhhhh...Soooo Cutttteeee!!!!

Ok, now that we got that out of the way it's time to talk Puppy Presents.

This is serious business for me and something that I also have to factor into my budget every year considering almost every immediate family member has a pup in the family. We don't skimp on our furbabies here so for the last couple weeks I've been scouring Pinterest to get some ideas for the furry ones of the family.

The main contender is this one...

Source: pauladeen.com via Angie on Pinterest

Leave it up to Paula Deen to come up with such cute and cheesy treats.

I would of course replace the purple ribbon with a fun and festive red polka dotted one but I think this would be the perfect gift for the pooches of our pack. I will be buying Mia some fun and squeaktastic toys among other goodies because she is my child but this will be a cute and cheap edition to the rest of it.

Plus, I've needed an excuse to use Mason Jars for something : )

Also, if you and your furbabies are looking for something fun to do this holiday season go over and join in with Sarah and Lucy for this fun swap...

Pets need gift exchanges too : )
Do you buy Christmas presents for your pets??What are you getting or making them this year??

The Picture Scrooge

2011-11-28T04:55:00.001-05:00

Yesterday Big Man and I started decorating our Little Home for Christmas.

Big Man took on the outside of the house while I decked our interior with all our red and green glory. I must admit it, it was a hard for me to really get in the festive mood considering we had our doors open and the sun was shining but I trudged on and got all Santas and Snowmen in place.

But this post isn't about me and the prettiness I made indoors. No, this post is dedicated to the Picture Scrooge, who also goes under the alias of my husband.

Lately, Big Man has been a no-go when it comes to picture snapping. I'll whip out my phone and before I can even tap the screen this is the look I get....

Accompanied by a "NO! NO! NO! No Pictures!

Those were his exact words as I was snapping this little gem.

Does he not know that I have a blog and documenting our life comes with the territory?!?!

Silly boy.

He usually is pretty cool about the whole picture taking thing but lately he has been shutting me down left and right. I don't think it has anything to do with the blog, considering he has been bugging me about when he could do his guest post but could it possibly be a pretty little gift I might get soon and he knows he will be subject to a non stop modeling?

Goodness, I hope so! : )

Hopefully this is just a little phase of his because I will make him swallow this camera before I stop taking pictures. Are any of your hubbies like that? I know I can't be the only one with a camera dashing hubster.

I also found out today that Big Man also thinks he is Clark Griswold.

Big Man tried to explain the grand scheme he had for outfitting our front porch but this is pretty muck all I heard...

- 2 packs of 150 ft. light

- Netted lighting

- Colored on the outside, white on the inside

-Snowman

- Elevated Santa

- Infinity Table

Yeah, I'd say someone is excited.

He got the majority of the lights up and I must admit it looks amazing, I can't imagine what it's going to look like when everything is finished.

Now if we could only get him to get a ladder and try not to be the Spiderman of Light Hanging...

I seriously almost had a heart attack watching him jump up on our railing and teeter while clasping the hooks onto our front roof.

Goodness. : )

A New Christmas-ified Little Woman. Little Home

2011-11-27T04:15:00.003-05:00

Every year right after Thanksgiving I like to give the Little Home and the ol' blog a Christmas overhaul.

(If ya haven't noticed...)

My blog designer is Louise Frank Designs formerly Adori Graphics and I have used her custom Christmas design she did for me for the past two years. I am still using the background, header, post icon, and signature but this year I wanted to try my hand and making some buttons so I gave my already awesome Christmas design a little uplift...

Here's a couple of the things I did...

New: Candy Cane Navigation Buttons and Look Who's On The Nice List ; )

New: A few holiday accessories for Big Man, Mia, and myself

New: Christmas Themed Sidebar Titles

P.S. You girls are naughty....haha :)

I know many girls have already started decking their 'real' halls but have you started decking your blog halls??!?

If so, I want to see!!!

I'm off to trim the Little Home in all it's Christmas goodies :)

Awaken From My Turkey & Black Friday Coma

2011-11-26T05:33:00.000-05:00

Hope everyone had a wonderful and blessed Thanksgiving...

Now that I'm finally coming out of the haze of the last two days, I decided to recap on it.

On Thanksgiving, Big Man sadly had to work so I woke up at the butt crack of dawn to

a. Start Cooking?!?

b. Blog and Watch The Parade?

Take your time....*Jeopardy music*

If you're a smart little lass or have Twitter, you'd know the latter was the one that was true....

Every year, no matter what I wake up at 9am on Thanksgiving to watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade. If I had a willing friend, I'd gladly drag them into the city to go see this with me but since I don't, me and Mia watched it from the comfy confines of the couch.

I love everything about...

The floats

The balloons

The lipsynched musical numbers

The surroundings

♥

But I what I loved most was the end when I got to see that big guy in red. Seeing him meant that in a few hours after turkey and pumpkin rolls were consumed, that Christmas was underway.

Can I get a woooo hooooooo?!?

I did kind of feel jealous though when I kept reading on Twitter about everyone preparing their turkeys and making all their little side dishes. With my lack of cooking expertise, I was told by Big Man to absolutely not touch the turkey or do anything before he got home, with the exception of taking it out of the water after it was done brining...

This is Cecile.

She's our turkey. I named her. She was delicious.

Big Man was a complete Debbie Downer about photographing Thanksgiving. This was his first time making turkey and he was a little stressball so any time I tried to take pictures, I was shut down quick. He should have let me take a picture though because it was the best turkey I've ever eaten and was a missed opportunity in documenting our first Thanksgiving married.

Oh well, atleast my belly will remember the turkey, baked mac and cheese, cranberry sauce and pumpkin roll of our first married Thanksgiving.

After we ate, we lounged around for awhile in a turkey coma until it was time to meet my sister and head out for some Black Friday shopping...

Our first stop was Wally World to pick up a few things on my sister and our list.

We got their early enough as you can see to split up and set up shop next to our loot. Big Man was grabbing our stuff and me and my sister were grabbing the stuff she wanted for my nephew along with a ShopVac for my cousin.

This year WalMart started their sales at 10pm and in my opinion that was a big mistake. For starters, it isn't even Black Friday anymore, it's still freakin' Thanksgiving and secondly, alot more crazy people were out since it was alot earlier.

There is alot of good hearted and kind people who are out on BF and I met three lovely girls while waiting to get a kid's table for my nephew. These girls were sweet enough to grab the table for me while I went down to grab the ShopVac for my cousin and that's where things took a turn for the worse and people got crazy.

It was 9:40pm and as I was standing next to the ShopVac pallet all you heard was a bunch of people screaming. I later came to find out it was one of my friends sisters who worked there and she was yelling at some guys who were fighting over a griddle or something stupid. In the midst of the shouting people just started tearing open the pallets and started grabbing their stuff. Mind you, we still had 20 minutes till the sale actually started but I grabbed the vac and hauled ass. It was crazy busy in that section and if I would have got hit for some bullshit griddle I would have flipped my shit.

Thankfully, we got all the stuff we needed from there and got out as quick as possible.

Big Man had work the next morning at 5am so we split ways but me and my sister continued on and headed to Reading to go to Toys-R-Us and some of the other bigger chains. Soon as we got into TRU I went to stand in the check out line that snaked around the store as my sister shopped and that was the smartest decision we made. If your shopping in pairs or a group, do this so it cuts down on your time and you can get more shopping done.

We hit up a couple more shops down there including the mall, but we didn't have it in us to wait in the insane lines of Old Navy and Target.

At around 3am we headed home and went to bed but I was awaken two hours later when Big Man came to pick me up because he got out of work early. Not one to miss a shopping opportunity, Big Man and I continued shopping in the morning and picked up some more Black Friday goodies.

I'll show you a picture once I bring everything in from the car but I'd say we got a lot of practical stuff.

Our first married Thanksgiving was a success, now it's on to hosting Christmas for the fam. Eeeek!

How was your Thanksgiving and Black Friday?!? : )

Barely Functioning...

2011-11-25T17:21:00.000-05:00

Pardon my absence as I am still in a Turkey and Black Friday coma.

Recaps of this fun time will resume shortly. : )

It Is What It Is, Son....

2011-11-25T00:00:00.000-05:00

Just kidding...

But seriously stay out of my way people.

Mama's haulin' ass and getting deals and doesn't have time for any shenanigans. : )

Big Man, my sister and myself are up all night and out this morning hitting up all the Black Friday sales. We will be dropping Big Man off at work at 5 a.m. (he's a trooper!) and then continuing on our journey of more stores. Then we will be wrapping it up with a yummy breakfast and a nap.

That's the plan, atleast.

To all my other Black Friday crazies out there, good luck and be safe.

To my all my other lovies that are still home in bed, sleep tight loves.

Gobble, Gobble!

2011-11-24T04:23:00.000-05:00

Source: kidspacestuff.com via Gail on Pinterest

Hope everyone has a wonderful day that is filled with good food, loving families, amazing friends and fun times. Remember to be thankful for the things and people we have and pray for those who are less fortunate this season.

I will be watching my beloved Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade this morning and trying to make Big Man and myself Thanksgiving dinner without burning the house down. Wish me luck my dears. : )

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

Thankful For...

2011-11-23T04:20:00.002-05:00

This is the last little edition and one that to me is not so little but can be grouped in this category because not alot of people understand it or can relate to it if they are not part of it.

If your reading this right now, than you already know that this

Little Thing I'm Thankful For...

Is actually a very BIG thing and is one that myself among many others find very important and so rewarding and that is

Blogging

Now that I am apart of this community, I understand the passion that so many people put into it.

It is therapeutic to me because I can get whatever thought, idea, or blurb out on my own little space of the interwebs and be able to to express myself with written words and pictures. I'm naturally a people person and enjoy making new friends in real life and online, but I feel like my message gets across clearer and more accurate when I write it down on here.

It has made me more accountable for my actions and more productive in my ways because now I choose to share and open up my life to so many others. Sure, I may have a shitty or lazy day here and there but that is what life is. No matter what kind of blog you have or what image people may have of you through it, it boils down to that we are all actual people who are sharing our struggles, passions, and triumphs and on the best days we have people there to relate and connect to.

I've been able to share personal issues and general ideas and luckily have been able to connect with many wonderful girls who were there to lend a shoulder to cry on, a recipe to try, or a cure to my most recent ailment.

The cool thing to me is, that it is not only a one sided view.

I've met and have come to love girls that have so many different ideas than me whether it be religion, politics, football, parenting or decor and for me, it has been an eye opening experience.

I've learned about many new things I would have never thought or heard of, if it weren't for this and so many of the blogs I read. I also would have never met IRL or just online some of the girls I consider my biggest supporters and closest confidants.

I know, I have written about my love of blogging and my love for all of you a time or two before but I just need to reiterate the impact that you ladies have had on my life, in a positive way.

I'm thankful for this little piece of blog bliss I have and that I get to share each day with you. : )

Thankful For...

2011-11-22T04:02:00.002-05:00

I promise that this is not an intentional Christmas post but is one that can be logged under the

Little Things I'm Thankful For...

Though I don't share many details about the work I do, I can tell you that for the majority of my day, my work is repetitive and boring. Yes, I am thankful to have a job in this economy but let's call a spade a spade and say that this isn't my 'dream job' and it isn't anything glamorous that I like to brag about.

I get bored easily at my job and with no technology within my reach and the fact that it is really hard to hear and talk to people, I must find ways to entertain and amuse myself.

My entertainment of choice...

Singing To Myself

It's not just any old songs either, my music of choice, as of late....Christmas Music. (duh!)

I'm not the best nor the worst singer but on any given day at work you will find me one time or another quietly singing to myself Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer or maybe even Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas.

I rotate back and forth through old songs by Burl Ives and more current lovable numbers like N'Sync and Mariah Carey but ones that just keep coming to the front of my memory lately are the old hymns from my church going days...

Do You Hear What I Hear

Oh Come, All Ye Faithful

Joy To The World

Those are just to show a few of them that have been floating around.

The thing is I haven't been to church in I don't know how many years. I won't go into any deep religious talk but for awhile I rejected going to church. I was 'too busy' off doing other things to care but lately these Christmas songs that I remember fondly from my childhood have been bringing me back and I have been enjoying it.

I have always had faith and believed in God and the higher power out there and have found comfort in my prayers but these songs bring out another side of joy and spirit that I haven't felt in awhile.

I still have my concerns and questions in some areas of religion that I'll keep to myself at the moment and have not found a place where I feel comfortable worshipping but I feel for myself, that these songs give me the connection and comfort that I'm looking for at this point.

It's not alot, but being able to sing to myself and relive the glory days of when my mind was young and innocent is a little thing that I'm thankful for.

Thankful For...

2011-11-21T04:42:00.002-05:00

I thought about doing a series of posts this week telling you ladies about how I am thankful for my husband, dog, family and so on but I changed my mind at the last minute.

You see, I'm thankful for those things all the time and during the holidays I think that is much more prevalent since we gather round more and are focused on many more people than ourselves in this season.

I thank God everyday that I am blessed with an amazing husband who is my rock, an awesome pup who is my baby, and a family who I know will be there for me through thick and thin. Those along with my job, home and health are the major things that I will forever be thankful for but...

This week I want to celebrate the little things that I am thankful for. The things that may get overlooked or taken for granted. The things that bring joy to my heart and make me who I am no matter how small or silly it might be.

So for the next two days I'll share

Little Things I'm Thankful For...

We will start off with one of my favorite hobbies and yummy ways to pass the time...

Baking!

I have admitted time and time again that I am not much of a cooker. I cringe at the thought of touching raw meat and this whole taking the ass out of the turkey thing to me is for the birds (haha..pun, get it? I'm dumb, I know). Now, that I'm a wife though, I am truly trying to step it up in that department and have learned how to make a couple good dishes all by myself. Yay for me!

But where I lack in the cooking department, I surely make up for in the baking department.

I super puffy scalloped edged decorated with glitter and sparkles and all things pretty heart baking and all things related to. Sure, the taste of a juicy steak might tickle some people's fancy but this girl right here loves sinfully sweet goodies that will travel straight to her ass and thighs. Sad but true : (

I don't know if I could pinpoint was it is, but baking brings a sense of peace and pride to me whenever I yield a fresh batch of cookies from the oven or a red velvet cake being prepared to ice and it's results are nothing short of perfect. I am proud I guess, because with my lack of grace and knowledge in other areas, this is one in which I excel

I'm no Bakerella but I know that I can whip up a delicious batch of cookies, cupcakes, or cake that my hubs will gobble up in a heartbeat.

I'm always looking on Pinterest and other blogs for new things to try (hit me up if you got some) and new goodies to make but my show stoppers are for sure my homemade chocolate chip cookies (above).

Excuse me while I go devour the little remnants left of them : )

You Want To Advertise Where?!?

2011-11-21T04:21:00.013-05:00

I've contemplated holding this off until the new year but I've figured with December being the most fun and active time in the blogosphere that it was the perfect time to announce...

I'm hoping that this will be a fun endeavor where my favorite blog friends will have a opportunity to showcase and advertise their blogs, Etsy shops, and companies for an affordable rate while getting some exposure to others in the interwebs.

Keeping with the theme of the blog, there are three sizes of advertisements you can choose from:

$20/ a month

Ideal for someone looking for maximum exposure as these will be positioned higher on the sponsor list.

$10/ a month

Ideal to get your face out there and swim around in the sponsor pool.

$5/ a month

Ideal for those not so sure about this whole sponsorship thing...it's ok...here's a easy and cheap option that won't break your bank.

Besides having your beautiful mugs up in the sidebar in the size of your choosing, a sponsorship on Little Woman, Little Home will also include:

1. An initial introduction post that will shine the light on your blog, company, or shop and let readers know what your service/blog is all about. If you decide to sign up for additional months, a monthly feature will posted on the 1st of the month.

2. The option to host giveaways through Little Woman, Little Home showcasing your products and services. I am also open to doing reviews of products and show/tells. Only one giveaway/review a week as to not overload on it and will be on a first come/first serve basis. We can discuss these conditions further through email.

3. Weekly rotation of sponsors as to get the most exposure as well additional exposure through Twitter.

I'm excited about this new venture and I hope if your game that you'll consider advertising on Little Woman, Little Home. I'd love to have you. : )

If your interested in becoming a December sponsor, please contact me at:

littlewomanlittlehome{at}gmail{dot}com

All payments will be paid through PayPal...

A Very Bloggy Christmas...

2011-11-20T10:43:00.001-05:00

If your reading this post now, than in your email inbox you should find an email from Laura about your blog swap partners. I'm so excited about the turnout that we had for the swap and can't wait to see what everyone got.

I know why you are all here though and it's to find out the results of who won the dual giveaway of the Target gift card and Blog Design By Laura.

I made the list and mixed names of the participants from me and Laura's blog and then of the 41, let random number generator do the rest...

The first number chosen was 34 but that participant picked only one of the gifts so then I took to the generator again to find one other lucky winner...

If the suspense killing you yet?!?

A little bit?

No?

Ok, moving along...what we all been waiting for....

Congrats girls on winning!

Maria, I will be contacting you to get your information to ship your card and LC, Laura will be contacting you shortly to get started with your project.

Thanks for signing up girls, now go stalk your partners blog and get this swapping under way!! : )

The Last Day...

2011-11-19T07:19:00.001-05:00

Today is the last day to sign up for this...

So hurry up and get your little tushies signed up!!!

The giveaway winners for the Target giftcard and Blog Design by Laura will be announced tomorrow, so this is your last chance to get in on the fun!

We'd love to have you!! : )

Working Overtime Today..

2011-11-18T04:55:00.002-05:00

...

Source: someecards.com via Jodi on Pinterest

Source: bordom.net via Mindy on Pinterest

Source: someecards.com via NRB on Pinterest

Source: imgur.com via Aly on Pinterest

Source: someecards.com via Malita on Pinterest

Source: shhsecretconfessions.tumblr.com via Jenni on Pinterest

It's really not that bad...but everyone needs some humor on a Friday...

Your Welcome : )

Whoa...Black Betty (Bam-Ba-Lam)

2011-11-17T04:23:00.001-05:00

That song really has nothing to do with this post but everytime I think about Black Friday shopping that song pops into my head and I can't get the chorus out.

Anywho...

It's that time of year again loves.

With Thanksgiving coming next week I am preparing for not only that holiday this week but I'm also making my wishlist for my Black Friday excursion. Now, there may be some of you out there that hate Black Friday and despise all the traffic and commotion that the day after Thanksgiving brings but I'm sure there is also another half that enjoy this day where were set upon our favorite stores trying to snatch up deals for some of the most coveted gifts or most mundane of household items all in the name of a sale and deep discounts.

I, myself fall into the second category.

I'm not that big of a shopper year round but I love going Black Friday shopping and feeling the adrenaline of trying to find my favorite things at extremely low prices.

This...

Is usually frowned upon by many but I look at this as a challenge and in all honesty I kinda get excited by all the chaos going on around me. No, I don't want to see anyone trampled or killed but I enjoy seeing the looks on peoples faces as they feverishly scour for their coveted items. I'm not there to get in a knockout drag out fight over towels and tableware, nothing is worth that much but I have learned over the years some valuable lessons that have helped me and I'm here to share them with you today.

If you have plans to go out Black Friday shopping, here are some helpful tips that might save you some time and hassle....

Research Your Deals

Gone are the days where you had to wait for the Sunday before Thanksgiving circulars to come out before you could start looking for the deals you wanted. It is a new day and you can find almost all the big name retailers Black Friday ads online with a few clicks of your mouse. Visit here for a list of them. This is important because right now is the prime time to price compare and see which retailers offers the most of what your looking for and which is at a lower price. This will save you so much time at the store, if you have a list of exactly what your there to get.

Learn The Layout Of The Stores

You may know the layout of your local stores from going in them regularly but if you are going somewhere you've never been than I suggest going ahead of time and learning the layout of where the products are located. Even if you do know your store, it is a good idea to get to your Black Friday destination early so that way you can learn where they put all the sale items. I know last year at Wally World alot of items were located in rather strange spots and if we didn't survey the area beforehand we would have been running around like chickens with our heads cut off.

Plan According To Openings and Importance

If your getting something of utmost importance than make sure to hit up that store first (i.e. electronics, TV's, etc.) before others have the opportunity to snag your swag. I rank my list of things by what I want the most and what times their stores are open. I can find a majority of my list at Wally World and they open at 10 p.m. so we will be hitting up there first to grab our most important goods. From there on, we list our destinations by store opening times and the importance of each of those items. Not all stores open at the same time so make sure to double check what time they will be letting people in.

Dress Appropriately

I know up here in Pennsylvania the weather for Thanksgiving can be unpredictable so when I dress up for Black Friday shopping I dress in layers and boots. My usual get up is some jeggings, a comfy cute tee, a hoodie and my boots. This usually keeps me feeling comfortable to where I'm not too hot crammed inside or not too cold standing outside. This will change depending on where you live.

Accessories

Try to bring as few as possible. The last thing you want to worry about is your bulky purse getting in the way or someone stealing it or you losing it along with all your belongings amid the chaos. I personally don't bring my purse because I'm afraid of losing it but I do bring my cell in case there is an emergency.

Cash

To each their own on this but I only bring the amount that I intend to spend in cash and leave my wallet and credit/debit cards at home. As you have seen some people are crazy out there and the last thing I need is me losing or someone stealing my card and then I'm SOL for the rest of the day and for the holidays. That is a stress that I think we could all agree, we don't need.

Make Friends

I go Black Friday shopping with my sister and Big Man and it actually works out well for us to travel in this little tripod. We don't have to worry about a large group slowing us down and this little trifecta allows us to work together to get all of our loot and I feel safer out shopping with a small group than by myself. I also think it is important to not be an asshole and try to make nice with those standing around you. They might me the ones to help you get that last Shark Steam Mop that your were trying to get : )

Do you go Black Friday shopping or is it totally not your thing?

What are you looking to get this year??

A Thankful Yet Pinteresting Wednesday

2011-11-16T04:44:00.001-05:00

Can you believe that next week is already Thanksgiving?!?

Seriously, where did this year go...where did November go?

I could swear that trick or treaters were just at my door and poof! now it's the end of November and were about to celebrate Thanksgiving and embark on the most wonderful time of year, Christmas!

Ok, I'm getting ahead of myself but please understand how hard it is to contain my Christmas spirit when all I want to scream is CHRISTMAS! CHRISTMAS! CHRISTMAS! and post everything HoHoHo related.

Now that I got that out of my system I wanted to share some Thanksgiving inspired pins I've been pinning lately and there's no better place to share them then....

So here goes...

Source: ourbestbites.com via LW on Pinterest

Source: womansday.com via LW on Pinterest

Source: google.com via LW on Pinterest

Source: decorica.blogspot.com via LW on Pinterest

Source: fashionablyfoodie.blogspot.com via LW on Pinterest

Ahhhhhh pumpkin roll.....you want to come live in my belly, don't you?!?

Why We Shouldn't Watch TV While Bored...

2011-11-15T09:38:00.001-05:00

It was a lazy Sunday night in the Little Home and when Big Man and I couldn't find any good programs to watch we switched to the crazies of Extreme Couponing.

You know those people who stock pile a gajillion rolls of toilet paper and baby wipes and with a $600 checkout end up only paying $15.

Yeah, them.

I'm intrigued by shows like this and like watching the madness unfold of some of these people. This is not just a sale to them, this is a way of life that they take extremely seriously. While watching on Sunday, we even witnessed a 16 year old boy who was an extreme shopper who stock piled on pads (like AF pads) for no other reason than that they were on sale.

That is the one part of this whole system that I don't understand....

Yes, sure it might have been free and oh how can you pass up something that your not even paying for but really what is the purpose in getting it if your not going to use it?

(i.e the boy with the pads...???)

Maybe it's just me, but I have enough clutter in my house already and I don't need to be adding 60 cases of coffee on top of it when I don't even drink it.

With that being said...

I think Big Man and I are embarking on this crazy journey and are going to 'treme' couponing. Not as extreme as the people on the show but we want to get the most bang for our buck and want to use coupons and sales to our advantage.That is why if you would have came to our house on Sunday night you would have found us buried under 4 newspapers sorting through and clipping coupons to our little hearts content.

I'm not sure how this we'll go since I don't want to cause a scene at a supermarket with 4 carts of groceries but I'm willing to suck it up so me and my baby can get deals. We started meal planning and it only seems logical to try to find savings for the dishes and essentials we need. Times are hard and I think I can speak for alot of us when I say that now more than ever we are looking for more ways to pinch pennies and get savings where we can.

Do you use coupons or do couponing?

What do you think of it?

How are you and your family saving money this year....I'm always looking for new tips and ideas. : )

The Sickness Part Duece

2011-11-14T04:33:00.001-05:00

I came down with a cold a couple months ago and it passed like any other one. Right now though I am suffering from the sickness of all sicknesses, my friend.

This pretty much sums it up...

My nose goes from being stuffy to runny

Eyes go from ok to itchy and watering

And my chest is having an internal battle with me that keep me hacking up a lung every 5 minutes.

I've tried every over the counter medicine to alleviate these symptoms to no availability.

It is the sickness that is rebelling against any type of medicine....boo you effin' whore.

I see that I am in company too, as I read through similar tweets of my other sick lovies.

I'm running out of options friends, and might have to suck it up and make a doctors appointment but I wanted to consult with my blog and twitter MD's and hippie natural healing friends and ask if you have any last resort options for a friend???

Pretty please, I hate the doctors and don't want to pay them for something I can treat myself...any help will be appreciated.

Now if you'll excuse while I go drain the grossness from my face.

Stay healthy loves. :)

...And It Was A Success...

2011-11-13T16:16:00.000-05:00

...Christmas shopping that is.

Big Man and I headed down to Allentown yesterday to hit up the stores and to get the majority of our Christmas shopping out of the way. It was a freaking zoo, let me tell you. I figured it would be considering it was a Saturday and there were lots of sales going on but wowzer.

I'm glad though that we went now because I couldn't imagine what it would like in December when everyone is in the crazy Christmas state of mind and acts all irrational. I love Christmas and I love Christmas shopping but one thing I can't stand is ignorant people in public places.

Due to some sneaky readers, I can't show you any of the goodies that I picked up for anybody but I'm pretty happy with what we got and think we tailored alot of the gifts to people's personalities.

What I can show you though, is this adorable ornament that I scooped up at Tarjay...

How freakin' cute is this...I am in love with it.

If you've been a long time follower, you know the petition I went through with Big Man to get me this for many Christmas'. Last year, my dream finally came true and I got one and my baking has been awesome ever since. I've been looking for a stand mixer ornament to put on my kitchen candy/food tree but never was able to find it until yesterday when Tarjay came to the rescue.

I love it.

It's red. It's glittery. And the perfect addition to my ornament addiction.

Moving along....

After a couple hours of shopping, this little ladies belly was starting to rumble and Big Man knew to feed the beast soon. We decided on Olive Garden but they had a long wait, then Red Lobster but they had a ridiculous wait, so we thought Cracker Barrel but of course they were filled too.

C'mon people, go home and cook. ; )

After a ride from Allentown to Reading where we saw this beautiful sunset...

We decided to just head up our way and hit up the Cracker Barrel there.

I got my french toast while Big Man got his meat and potatoes meal and even when we got home Big Man made some hot chocolate for the two us.

Shopping bags in the trunk and full bellies to boot....I'd def. label our shopping excursion a success. : )

Let's Get This Show On The Road...

2011-11-12T10:04:00.010-05:00

Today Big Man and I are venturing out in the Saturday madness to do this....

Yes, it's a Christmas miracle that not only are we getting our holiday shopping done early but also that I have Big Man accompanying me on this journey, that I usually take alone.

Big Man is not much of a shopper but the stars aligned and my sweet husband decided that we should get this out of the way earlier and he would help this year in the gift giving. If you know anything about the hubby, you know that questions that go like this...

"What do you think? Should we get it?"

usually are followed up with responses like such

"I don't know....you decide."

It's like an automated response from him, I swear.

Since he is joining me I can't snatch up any of his goodies, but I am hoping to get the majority of my list knocked off today and be able to score some deals in doing so. Even if I don't, I will be still enjoying the the hustle and bustle and the decorations adorning the mall.

I don't know what it is but just seeing all the wreaths and bows and pops of red and green everywhere while listening to the Christmas music lightly playing in the background makes for a much more enjoyable shopping experience.

Wish me luck ladies :)

Have you started your Christmas shopping yet?

Where are your fave places to shop??

Pardon My Vulgarity But...

2011-11-11T04:18:00.010-05:00

This pretty much sums it up...

Source: someecards.com via Zach on Pinterest

Source: someecards.com via e on Pinterest

Have a good weekend lovies!!

{You forgot to sign up for the swap and giveaway, it's ok you still have time...go here!}

Contact Little Woman

2011-11-10T17:23:00.002-05:00

Hello Loves....

You made it here because there must be something you wanted to know or let me know and the email fairy is here to help you with all your email needs.

I don't know why you just didn't tweet me or use some new form of social media that I'll receive faster but I assume your old school and like things like soda parlors and hand written letters.

If that's the case, you contact me here...

littlewomanlittlehome{at}gmail{dot}com

I try to respond to all my emails in a timely manner but bear with me if it isn't an immediate response.

Feel free to contact me for any needs, concerns or questions : )

kidding...kidding ; )

A List of Holiday Lists..

2011-11-10T16:12:00.000-05:00

It's November and to me that means stocking up for the two most celebrated holidays of the year....

1. Thanksgiving

2. Christmas

This week I have been racking my brain coming up with lists of all the things that need to get bought and made over the following weeks. For me, this is crunch time into setting the holiday wheels in motion. Unlike years past, I am trying to go after this years holidays with a bit more organization in hopes for a little more peace come December instead of running around like a crazy person like I've done for the last couple years.

via

Want to take a look and what's happening in this little noggin' and what is gracing the pages of my life planner these days...

What To Eat For Thanksgiving

We usually go down to my Nan's house for Thanksgiving but her and my parents and brother will be heading out to Pittsburgh to see my 105 year old aunt. That leaves Big Man and I to fend for ourselves while making a traditional meal but for just two people.

Black Friday Shopping
Yes, I am one of the crazy people who goes out into the madness willingly to score cheap towels and half off electronics. I don't have any must have item but I am keeping up to date with the sites that share the Black Friday loot and seeing what I can score for myself.

Baked Goods for the Holidays
Winter is one of my favorite times to start baking and whipping up holiday treats for friends and family but on top of that this year, we will be hosting Christmas at our house. Big Man will be taking care of most of the cooking aspect while I will be working on baked goods. I am scouring Pinterest now and trying to narrow down the treats I will make for the day. Along with that, I am trying to buy most of the ingredients now while they are on sale.

F.Y. I....If your big on baking for the holidays or in general, now is the time to buy while everything is on sale. I read in a magazine last year that November is the prime time to stock up on such things before they go back up to their regular prices in December.

Cooking for the Holidays
Big Man is the chef so I'm leaving this in his hands, though I would like to be privy to the menu since he doesn't eat pork.

Christmas Presents
I'm making my lists of what to buy everyone along with where and if I can find any discount codes. I already have the kids toys along with a present for my sister and Dad but I am still working on the rest of the gang. Big Man is the hardest, since he doesn't tell me till the last minute what he likes, but I do have some ideas this year.

and last but not least....

A Holiday Budget
To get all of these things accomplished without spending an assload of money, I am setting up budgets for each of the items to allocate where and how much I will spend. It's easy to get caught up in the holiday hoopla but this little lady doesn't want to be broke come New Year's.

Have you started planning for the holidays yet?!?
What is on your lists??

{Don't forget to sign up for the Christmas Extravaganza here!!!}

Awesome Date Night...Brought To You By Big Man

2011-11-09T04:15:00.000-05:00

I'm not kidding when I say it's been awhile since Big Man and me have gone on an actual date night together. Sure, we went to Pennhurst and out with a group of couples last month but it's been a hot minute since we actually had a date day to ourselves.

Our usual date days start off with us arguing about where to go, what to eat, when to leave or what to wear but this time is was a little different. This was supposed to happen Halloween weekend but got cancelled because of the snow so I've been anticipating it for quite a while. It was also a surprise to me on where we were actually going as well.

Date nights are awesome hands down, but surprise ones I must say are even better and Big Man didn't disappoint.

After about an hour of driving and some feeling like a lame ass walking with my eyes closed, I was brought to the one of the two* places I've been craving most since leaving Florida...

Give me a thousand dollars and I will surely outfit my house before myself, I promise you that and that is why this was a big effin' deal.

When we lived in Florida, I had this wonderful decor store at my disposal but since moving to Pennsylvania (and the sticks at that) alot of my luxuries have been taken away from me. Big Man knew I had been dying to go here since when we passed one on the way to the haunted houses I squealed like a little girl and excitedly screamed..

"BIG MAN...LOOK! THERE'S A HOMEGOODS! THERE'S A HOMEGOODS IN PA! OMG LOOK!!!"

Hmmm, I wonder if he got the hint...

I have thought about it since then but barely gave going any thought since a drive down to Philly for home decor isn't really that practical. But Big Man saved the day and made an awesome date day when he found one somewhat closer to where we live.

I was like a kid in a candy store...

I don't even know where I would put giant silverware at my house, but they're calling my name

How about a new outdoor playhouse for Mia?!?

If this doesn't make me a crazy dog mama, I don't know what will

And did I mention all the pretty furniture they had, of which Big Man said I couldn't have because I suck at Windex'ing anything.

And would you be really surprised that I loved this whole section...

(those two won't rotate so just tilt ya head to the right again)

Ok, so not the nutcracker per se because I think they're a tad creepy but all sparkled up not so much.

But the whole section of HomeGoods devoted to Christmas of every different color. Yes and please!!

And I know some people are all 'Oh it's only November, it's not even Thanksgiving' .....well guess what...

I DON'T CARE!!!

I'm all about giving thanks and celebrating all things turkey but I'm not going to apologize for loving that they're putting Christmas decorations up and for bobbing my head and singing along to the carols that they have playing in stores. I LOVE IT AND I'M NOT ASHAMED TO ADMIT IT : )

Carrying on...

Big Man let me go at my own pace and didn't rush me once as I went through. He encouraged me to browse around, caught a couple of things I missed, and even helped me find a Christmas present for my dad, which usually never happens. It was one of the best shopping experiences of my life and it didn't stop there.

From HomeGoods we then headed over to A.C. Moore Arts & Crafts....which I never even knew existed. It's pretty much like a Michaels but from what I saw, somewhat cheaper. I took my time in there as well and pursued my favorite aisle...

The baking and sprinkle aisle. : )

I will be def. be heading back down there to pick up some craft and baking stuff that I have planned in the future.

From there we went to a Christmas superstore that made me leave speechless. I can't even begin to explain it...ahhhhhh I can't wait to go back.

And to finish our night we headed to Applebee's to grab some dinner. We don't eat out often so Applebee's was quite a treat for us and much better than stopping at Taco Bell, what we had originally planned. It was nice to be able to sit down and talk and enjoy our day together after a busy and work filled couple of weeks we've been having.

Props to Big Man for making a date day that this wifey certainly enjoyed : )

* the second place is The Cheesecake Factory....mmmm

Little Woman, Little Home

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Pardon My Vulgarity But...

Contact Little Woman

A List of Holiday Lists..

Awesome Date Night...Brought To You By Big Man

To or Not To ?!?