The Hunger Games

I had heard the hype around blogs and Facebook, but I was never interested in such an adventure-packed story that didn't involve sparkly vampires. I never paid attention to the movie trailers that are on TV or in the theaters for the March 23rd premiere. Then my hubby asked if I had read the books yet, to which I replied "eh, they just don't interest me." Shopping at Costco last week, the trilogy was all boxed up, tempting me with a fabulous Costco price - I mean, who could pass up 3 hardcover books for under $30? Let's just say, I cannot put this book down! I am hooked and I am only half-way through.

Have you read the series yet?

(Please no spoilers.)

I like it dirty ...

... my mascara! What else were you thinking I was going to be talking about today? Geesh!

I don't know 'bout you all, but I hate brand new mascara! It is too thin, too fresh, and doesn't at all do what it promises. Give a new tube some air time, a few weeks to get globby and mixed up a bit, and now we are talkin'!

Right now I am using Maybelline's Volum' Express the Classic in Very Black. I had a coupon for it a while back and snagged it at Target for $4. This stuff promises 3x the volume instantly and has a clump-free curved brush. When I first applied this to my lashes, I hated it! No plumping or volume, just spider-leg thin hairs that were attached to my eye lids. Sexy, huh? Not quite.

I decided to layer this mascara with the MAC Haute & Naughty mascara I was already using. It took a little over a week, but the Maybelline formula started to thicken a bit, and now it is the only one I am using on my lashes. The curved brush is pretty clump-free, too. I had to get used to using it the correct way. By 'correct' I mean the only way I can seem to position the wand with the proper amount of lash pressure to apply the stuff evenly. Who really knows for sure if it is actually being used in the correct form, but it is workin' for me.

What's your current mascara of choice? Do you like it dirty?

What's for dinner??

I saw a pin on good ol' Pinterest that inspired me to start meal planning for my family. It's pretty simple, really. Crock pot meals that can be put on in the morning before heading out to work, cooking throughout the day, and a fabulous dinner waiting for you when you get home .... but wait! What if you pre-made these meals so there was zero prep time in the mornings? Genius, I tell ya!! You know how the typical morning goes ... making breakfasts, packing lunches, getting kids off to school and getting yourself cleaned up and out the door in time for that daunting thing in life called a job. Did you see any time in there to prepare dinner?

I have decided that every Sunday, I am going to put together 4-5 meals and bag them up in Ziplocks to store in the fridge. This way I can throw them in the crock pot in the morning and not have to worry about the measuring, dicing, chopping, and mixing. Last night, I made up 5 meals in an hour. I found a few recipes online that I thought sounded yummy (we will see if they pass the test with my 3 boys), and they were pretty simple to throw together. I am excited to see how much stress is relieved in my evenings this week, being I am not having to create dinners with my oh-so-tired brain come dinner time.

Have y'all tried this sorta meal planning with your family? What are some of your favorite recipes?? I would love to try out some of your favorites on my own family! If you share, I'll be sure to give you proper kudos here on the bloggity blog!

Have a wonderful week, peeps!! xoxo

It's On Like Donkey Kong!

The number shouldn't matter. But I am a girl. And it does.

Jillian and The Pussycat Dolls are helping me out at home. Free personal training. I like it.

Things are all better once I plug in my headphones.Water. It does the body good.Who do you jam out to while you are workin' it out?

Ombre Love

Sorry for the delay in the unveiling of my new 'do, girls ... this was a two week process! My style wizard wanted to be sure my hair didn't turn out all funky being we were bleaching my black hair, so she did some test strips last week. I brought in this pic of the gorgeous Mila Kunis ... this was the look I had finally fell in love with.And two salon trips later, my stylist worked her magic ...
OMBRE!!!

I am loving my new color!

♥

Bling-tastic!

Nail color of the week ... Sally Hansen's Bling-tastic from their new Gem Crush line.

Base coat: Essie's Fill The Gap

3 Coats of Bling-tastic

Top Coat: Seche Vite

Indoor lighting
In the sun, indoors
~
I am LOVING this color. I needed 3 layers to coat each nail. By the 3rd time around, I found that the glitter stayed better if I tapped it on with the brush, rather than glide it across my nails. The finished results are quite smooth ... tons of aqua-blue glitter and silvery-gold pieces, too! What do you think??
~
So sorry for the iPhone pics ... I should really pull out my fancy camera to show you just how vivid and gorgeous this color actually is, but that involves a lot more process time. I am all about quick and simple these days! :o)

Damn you, Pinterest!!!

Oh My Goodness!!! It's a slight sickness. My hubby looks at me like I have lost my mind. And I kinda have. Pinterest. For those of you who know this site all too well, then you already know the addictive powers it possesses. For those who haven't been properly introduced, you wouldn't understand. Hours, upon hours, upon hours ... I can't get enough. Mindless browsing, endless dreaming, crafty ideas that stick in my brain even when the computer has been turned off.

This weekend, I decided to get all crafty for a minute and go on a little DIY project. I searched high and low at several stores for a spice rack. Not the carousel style, but one that can hang on a wall. What for, you may ask?

Nail polish.

My nail polish collection that I keep in a shoe box.

No such luck on finding this said spice rack that I saw a DIY pin for, that was all painted up and looking cute and fancy. Sigh.

One last stop at a Ross store, and walking up and down each aisle (because you know nothing is ever put where it belongs), I came across a shower caddy. Shelves and hooks ... an idea popped into my temporarily crafty little mind!

Nail polishes and accessories!!

How great is this?!? I added some pretty cardstock into the bottom of the shelves so the polishes sat up better on the wires. Eventually I will spray paint this in a fabulous teal color, but for now, and for $9.99, I have a great little storage area to display my polishes and jewelry. What do you think, peeps?

Excited for Thursday!!!

Miss Kim ... liking the two tones hereNot such a fab pic of my girl, Mila, but focus on the hair ...

Little bit of the Ombre trend ...
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Alright girls - here's where I need ya the most!! The first step I need to take before chopping off my locks in April is creating some dimension in my hair. I dye my hair every 6 weeks or so BLACK. Not a lot of contrast, I know. I have to start incorporating some highlights so when I do cut my hair short, you will be able to see that it is a cute, fun and flirty style, rather than a straight, blunt, gothic-looking mess. I have done the purple and blue highlights ... I ADORED them, however I am slightly over that fun stage in my life and am looking for a little more of a big girl look. {GASP!! I know, we can talk about that later.}
So the above looks are colors I think would mesh well with my black hair. What do y'all think? Do you think I can pull it off ... caramel-y brown highlights? Should I go more red? More blonde? My official salon appointment is on Thursday, so speak up now or forever hold your peace! I need honest opinions, pictures, web links, etc ... Don't be shy girls!!
Thanks for the support, chicas!! Happy Monday!!

Linking up ... it's all about the shoes!!

I am linking up with Terri over at PeaceLoveApplesauce today - she has an awesome blog and if you haven't checked her out yet, do so (after you check out this post, of course)!!

I am usually not into wearing flats - don't know why, just not a fan. I got a new job working for a real estate company, and some days I just don't feel like rockin' boots or Uggs. These are perfect for the office and pretty darn comfy. Wanna know where they came from?

Walmart ... $14.98

Yep. Cute, huh?

'dem Jersey Girls

Nicole "Snooki" PolizziSammi "Sweethart" GiancolaJenni "JWoww" Farley

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Not too shabby! I think the Jersey Shore girls look amazing without all the make-up caked on! They clean up quite nicely!

Apparently, Miss Deena hasn't been caught by the paparazzi au natural yet. I couldn't find any pics of her without her mask on, but we have all seen the show.

Post work-out yumminess!!

I am not a protein bar kinda gal. I have yet to find a bar that isn't chalky or dry or just plain artificial tasting. Hubby and I are hittin' up the gym each night to get in some cardio - go resolutions, go!! After last night's session, we popped into the grocery store to get a couple things we needed, and browsed through the supplements aisle. I was griping to Tim that I haven't found any yummy protein bars to munch on, and the flavors that I found to even remotely sound appetizing, are all loaded with carbs (which I am trying to avoid). After a mini lesson from my man about the importance of some carbs in my diet and yada yada yada, I scoped the KIND Fruit and Nut bar. Almonds and coconut - that was really all the wrapper needed to say to get me hooked. There aren't a lot of grams of protein (only 4), and the carbs are up at 19 grams with 10 grams of sugar and 210 calories per bar (wait - should these be considered a health bar??), BUT they are SO YUMMY!! Reminded me of an Almond Joy without the chocolate, which is perfect being I don't like chocolate in solid form. I ate the whole bar, which cost $1.49 on sale, and my hunger was satisfied, although I did drink 24 ounces of water with it as well. Probably not the best choice, but I definitely did a little dance while eating it!
What about you? Do you have a favorite protein bar you love to snack on? Please share!!

It will happen ...

I will cut my hair this year. I really will. I know y'all don't believe me. I have only talked about it (and chickened out) multiple times the last couple years, but I swear that this is the year! In fact, I will be chopping it off on my birthday, April 25th. Here are some cuts I am loving at the moment ... This one may be too short for my liking (or my hubby's for that matter), but I am loving the purple! If y'all remember last year, I got purple extensions added to black hair for my 30th birthday. I adored them!

Browsing on Pinterest (oh.my.gosh. that site is addicting!!), I found this cut ... love the layers and the lengths. Just not sure if my hair would be thick enough to pull off such amazing volume.

I heart ... I heart a lot!!

I may be too scared to go this short, but this looks so cute on Kristen. It would be fun for spring/summer.
Opinions??

Letting ya'll in on my New Year goals ...

Oh 2012 ... what shall my goals be this year? I didn't make any last year. Didn't want to give in to the hype of setting those resolutions, only to forget about 'em 3 weeks later. It's always sad to me when those goals fizzle so quickly and my motivation for the rest of the year hinges on those failed attempts. Sigh.

This year, I am setting goals, but first and foremost, there will be no time limit or pressure to accomplish them by. This way, I am not stressed at an approaching date and psyching myself out, jeopardizing the goal I am trying to reach. That is one weakness I have - too much pressure on myself. It is so much easier to fail when you are telling yourself you aren't going to make it!

Now ... onto my 2012 resolutions!!!

The last part of 2011 was a stressful time. Lots of changes in our family occurred, more financial than anything more serious, but stressful enough for some tears, anxiety, sleepless nights, eye twitches, and a full body rash that came about with all the worry. I had to step back and take look at what really mattered in life ... my husband and I are more in love and stronger now than ever in our 13 years of being together, we have 2 happy and healthy boys, we are not in need of anything. Life is such a blessing and I need to always keep this in the front of my mind. Job changes and financial woes are a part of life. I want to make sure that I don't dwell on these issues and keep a positive and happy spirit in life. I am blessed and I don't want anyone to ever think that I am not grateful for that.

This year, the only drama I wanna see is on reality TV. I got caught up in friend drama this last year ... gossip, fights, and nonsense that didn't concern me. I entertained the trash talking amongst others and found myself not only with a migraine, but even being blamed in some of the rumors being spread about. My bad for being a part of the conversations in the first place, but even a bigger bad to put myself in a situation where blame could have been shifted on me. Not cool and lesson learned. How 'bout them Housewives? Let's see what kind of drama they stir up in 2012!!

And, of course, like so many others ... the 'Get In Shape' resolution!! I gained an unwanted 15 pounds in 2011. I want those pounds to disappear. Unfortunately, I need to learn to enjoy eating right and working out. That would be my first baby step to accomplishing this one. But hey - no pressure, right? Do it at a steady pace, no rushing, no deadlines, just learning to like a healthier lifestyle.

So there ya have it ... nothing major, just learning to take better care of myself in all aspects. What about you? How did last year's resolutions go, and what are the new ones you set for 2012?

Hello Lovelies ...

Happy 2012!! I have been contemplating whether or not to come back to the blogging world. Seems like life is uber cray cray these days (yep, just quoted Whitney - anyone lovin' her show?) . I have taken on a new job (which I l.o.v.e.), switched the stay-at-home role with my hubby for a bit, and have been trying to get used to new schedules. Seems like there is not enough time or brain power left at the end of my days to focus.

I have come to the conclusion though that my blogging days are definitely not over yet. There are too many times throughout each day that I use a product and wanna share a review, or dress myself up and wanna take pics to post on Fashion Fridays. Movies, books, recipes, celeb gossip, wish lists and so on ... all things a girl loves to chat about with her bloggy friends. I definitely need to squeeze in some quality time with y'all here on dot...dot...dot...! ♥

See ya next year!!

It's that time of year when the holidays take over, the kids are home on winter break, and my brain cells just can't seem to cooperate long enough to put together an entertaining blog post - ha! So it is farewell until 2012 ... I will be back with the new year and ready to start fresh again!! THANK YOU so very much for all your love and support here on dot...dot...dot...!! Blessings for a wonderful Christmas and a safe and happy new year celebration!!

Muah!! xoxo

A local gem ... Portland Pie

Butter Shortbread Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting ... Chocolate Dipped Butter Shortbread ... Lemon Shortbread ... is your mouth watering yet? Today I would like to introduce you all to a local favorite here in my neck of the woods, Portland Pie. I was just recently introduced to this company by the owner herself and she is happy to share with my wonderful readers the opportunity to win 2 sets of a dozen shortbread cookies!! Yep, TWO WINNERS!! So let's get back to the mouth-watering details of Portland Pie, shall we?

Bourbon Pecan Pie ... Marionberry ... and an award-winning Coconut Cream?!? Sign me up!! Homemade recipes, fresh and local ingredients, and always made fresh to order - you really do have to appreciate when so much love is put into desserts!!
Entering to win is easy, entries count if you are a follower of dot...dot...dot...'s blog and Facebook page (links are in the sidebar to your right).

Next up, hop on over to Portland Pie's website and take a peek around. I know you will want to eat your computer screen, but I don't recommend that. Just come back here and tell me which pie is making you wish that websites had scratch-n-sniff technology!

Need another shot at winning one of those sets of shortbread cookies? Like Portland Pie on Facebook!! There are lots more pictures over there to drool over!

And of course, all your Facebook, Twitter and blog shout-outs are super awesome and loved so dearly! Leave a comment for each post you do!

xoxo

This is on her Christmas list!

I had a few other opportunities arise for the holiday event, so the fun continues!!
I was contacted by a representative for Misikko.com, an online source for your hair styling needs! Flat irons, curling irons, hair dryers and more ... top-rated, professional tools and products marked at unbelievable prices!

For a review opportunity, I was sent a 1-inch Hana Pro flat iron for straightening. Communication from the representative was outstanding! Upon accepting the offer, I received shipping confirmation within the next day and the package arrived within a week!! Awesome delivery time!

Opening the package, I was amazed at how beautifully this set was put together! I would definitely be happy sending this as a gift, knowing the finest details (such as ribbon and flower petals) were taken care of. Extra goodies (nail files, a hair brush, e.l.f. cosmetics and more!!) were included, as well. I am not sure if that is standard, or was a bonus for this product review, but it was very nice to receive such a nice package.

Now, onto the star of the show!!

Quick Facts:

1-inch ceramic plates

Adjustable heat 140 - 450 degrees F

Safe for damp hair

Floating plates self adjust to hair texture

2 year warranty

8 foot swivel cord

Comes with heat pouch, hot pad and tin case

Top rated, 5-star reviews, and featured by Redbook and Marie Claire!

Hair Before

Washed with shampoo and conditioner, blow dryed, no products.

Hair After
Silky smooth, soft, straight and look at all that SHINE!!
I used the hottest setting (450 degrees), and was so impressed at how quickly start to finish was! The iron heated up instantly, the plates glided smoothly through my hair, and was really lightweight! Flyaways disappeared, layers popped, and my hair was so very soft! My straight locks lasted all day and into the next! LOVE!!

Along with my goodies, I was sent the Hana Shine Shield to try as well. This amazing serum is heat resistance for your hair! It goes on very lightly and smells really pretty!

Hana Shine Shield Features:
Lightweight leave-in conditioning therapy.
Designed to protect and restore both hair and scalp from environmental and styling stress.
Jojoba absorbs quickly without a greasy feel for thorough deep conditioning and naturally dissolves soil, removing build-up from other styling products to leave hair clean & supple.
Jojoba naturally excels at thickening keratin layers, bringing out your hair's natural color overtones, highlights and brilliance.
Periodic use over time is proven to advance the quality of your hair & the health of your scalp.

And one of dot...dot...dot...'s lucky followers will receive a full size, 6 oz bottle of Hana Shine Shield!!
As the rules go, you gotta be a follower here and over on dot...dot...dot...'s Facebook page. Links are in the sidebar to your right. I heart new friends and followers, and appreciate the time y'all take to support my blog! xoxo

To get your entries in, let's show Misikko some love for offering such a generous giveaway (did I forget to mention that this is a $50 value?)!! Hop on over and spend some time checking out their website. When you have your wish list ready, come back here and let me know what you will be asking Santa for!

You can Like Misikko Beauty on Facebook for an extra entry as well ... they will keep you updated on the latest products, special offers and giveaways!! Be sure to add another comment to make your entry count!

And of course, the more peeps you tell about dot...dot...dot...'s fabulous holiday event, the more shots you have at winning! Shout-outs on Facebook, Twitter and blogs all count ... link back here!! Drop another line so I can tally all your entries!
xoxo

My Go-To Holiday Recipe ... everyone loves this!!

This dessert is the absolute perfect salty-sweet combo and is a hit at any holiday or event!

Strawberry Pretzel Salad

FIRST LAYER
2 cups coarsely crushed pretzels
3/4 cup melted butter

SECOND LAYER
1 (8oz) pkg cream cheese
1 cup sugar
{I like to double this layer for extra cream cheese goodness!}

THIRD LAYER
1 lg pkg (6 ounces) strawberry flavored Jello
2 cups boiling pineapple juice
1 (10oz) package FROZEN strawberries

TOPPING
1 tub of Cool Whip

Preheat oven to 400°. Put first layer in a 9x13 -inch pan. Bake 8 minutes. Remove and cool completely.
Second Layer - Beat sugar into cheese until fluffy. Spread over cooled pretzels.
Third Layer - Mix Jello and boiling pineapple juice until dissolved. Add frozen strawberries and set aside 10 minutes. Pour over cheese mixture. Chill thoroughly until Jello sets.

Top with Cool Whip before serving.

YUM!!

What's your favorite holiday dish?? Please share!