The Wilder Side of Life: CSN GIVEAWAY!!!

The Wilder Side of Life: CSN GIVEAWAY!!!: "That's right! I'm doing another fabulous $40 giveaway with CSN! In case you are unaware of this online company let me fill you in! They sell EVERYTHING!"

Click the link to find out more!

Homewood Public Library

So today I am typing this post from the Homewood Public Library. Weird right? Well it is. I am on my lunch break, and the library is a mere 2 minutes from my office, with traffic, so I thought I'd stop by.

Not that I'm not always wanting to stop by, seeing as how I LOVE the library. Literally, I have a true LOVE for the library. Being here, browsing, reading, hanging out in the coffee lounge, you name it. It is a great escape.

So anyways I find myself here amidst the noon hour, and sit down at one of the few wi-fi computers. Two boys are at the computer next to me playing simultaneous video games.... LOUDLY.

Phrases such as, "Kill it!" "Get it!! Get it!!" "Oh yeaaaaaaaah!" and "NOOOOOOOOOO!!!" echo throughout these hallowed halls. ... leaving me more than slightly annoyed.

Anyways other than that, I find the library a great place to relax and break between work, instead of going out for lunch or staying and eating a packed lunch at my desk.

Tip for the day: Visit your local library and stay frugal! :)

Into the Vortex

So today was the day mom and I were going to venture out and find a slip cover for one of our yard sale treasures. Mom got a mail flyer that advertised slipcovers at Old Time Pottery for $39.99. Which was a great price, especially after looking at ones from Wal-mart, Target, HomeGoods, and Overstock.com. costing anywhere between $50-$100.

Once we arrived at OTP mom gets a memory flashback. (I love when this happens) She looked at me and said.... "Oh my gosh, Katie, exactly 22 years ago to the day (when she was pregnant with me) I came into THIS store, which back then was K-mart. I came in here barefoot because my feet were so swollen none of my shoes fit me."

So then I respond, (having just watched the movie 17 Again last night with mom) "When we cross through those sliding doors, what if we go into a vortex and I go back into your womb!!!?"

Mom laughs and says yeah right.... while I ominously say... "We are knowingly entering into our fate right now"

Mom chuckles to herself, and no lie as we walk through the door I slip (yes it had been raining... I'm not super clumsy) and almost fall and hit my head, catching myself on mom's arm before I do.

We both stare into each others eyes, wide and full, knowing for sure that if in fact I had hit my head, the vortex would have swallowed me up into her womb.

Luckily it did not, meaning I was able to get a great slipcover and some AMAZING throw pillows. Mission Accomplished.

Just thought I'd share this random moment in time. :)

Pictures to come of the slipcover and pillows.

Side note: Sarah and her mom were at OTP at the same time we were. We had a blast milling about looking for cool things for our new apartment. I especially enjoyed it when either of our moms would hold up something completely hideous or all together useless and tell us how cute it was or how much we needed to get it, since it was after all on SUPER SALE.

Good times!

PROBLEMS WITH MOBILE BLOGGING?

Obviously the mobile blogging isn't going to get me very far. The test proved that you have to send the whole post in one message or it separates it into two posts.... how lame!

It also doesn't allow you to give a title to your entries. Not cool.

Oh well, at least now I know, and have the option of creating a VERY SHORT post straight from my phone if I so desire. Which I probably will desire.

A fairly useful thing I found out is that you can also upload pictures via MMS text message. VERY COOL!

The mobile blogging does not charge you. It says standard msg fees apply, meaning whatever your service provider charges you for messaging is all that you'll be charged. NO charging via blogger. So if you're like me and have an unlimited text messaging plan (thanks mom and dad) then you can text blog post all you want, for FREE. (well, you pay for it with your plan, but you get the idea.)

Stay tuned readers, and stay tech savvy!

n have internet on my phone... It's straight up text messages. So this first one is really just a text to see if mobile blogging really works! Here goes!

So I just registered my phone for MOBILE BLOGGING!!!! WOAH!

Is that not the most crazy, technologically advaced thing you've ever heard of? I don't eve

Birthday Planning!!!!

I am a planner. There's nothing more that can really be said. I make lists, endless lists, all day everyday. Lists on what I need to do when I get home, list of what I need to accomplish before I leave the office, lists of movies and books I want to read, lists of projects I want to do, lists of people I need to email, lists of ideas I have..... THE LIST GOES ON.....

So now that it is birthday time... aka ULTRA EXCITING time to PLAN time. I will brainstorm aloud. I have already sent out a save the date to make sure my friends aren't double booking on my birthday. So here's the plans thus far:

Dinner at my house. Grill out on the deck, with the tiki torches lit, and music playing in the background.

We have a great deck and plenty of room to entertain. I like having meals at home, because not only are they more personal they save your guests some money.

After dinner I'd like to do 2 things. One being roast marshmellows and make smores around our fire pit on the deck. Yummo! (Mom and share a birthday which we'll celebrate together on our actual birthday, so by the time I have my party I'm sure cake is the last thing I'll be wanting) Smores is a perfect summer birthday dessert!

Another thing I'd like to do is some sort of activity. Mainly a craft that my friends can take home, and have something to keep and remember the night. I'm thinking of doing some sort of decoupage project, and have everyone create their own masterpiece. Maybe a picture frame, photo-box or magnet.... i don't know... something that takes about an hour or less. Here's what I'm thinking:

I really like the photo boxes so if I can find those cheap at Michaels that's what I'd prefer, but I thought these were some other creative ideas using old book pages and scrapbook paper.

To create these looks, all you do is use wallpaper, newspaper and magazine clippings, stickers, pictures, fabric, you name it, and apply an adhesive decoupage medium such as Mod Podge using a paint brush, sponge brush, tweezers etc. to get the desired look.

THEN! We will travel to Brittany Breeding's BRAND NEW HOME. That's right people my friend is a HOMEOWNER. Whoa.... so She has graciously offered it up for and I quote, "whatever birthday shenanigans I so desire" hahaha I love her. Check out her beautiful house!

Once we arrive there will be snacks such as these tasty chips.

And perhaps a frozen beverage such as this:

And obviously there will be dancing such as this:

So there you have it folks, you are just as caught up as I am on birthday planning. This was just a brainstorm of ideas. Let me know what you think, or any suggestions you may have!

Birthday Wish list Updated

So this morning before work, my wonderful mother went online and ordered me 3 things from my birthday wish list: the comforter, shower curtain, and shower liner!! I could not be more excited!!!!!! AH!! ... feel my excitement!

So I thought I'd like to put a few new items on my list.... If not as birthday gifts but just things I need/want. This is basically a list to remind myself, so don't get all crazy thinking I'm so greedy. Whatever.

1. I have seen these for a few years, and being the penny pincher I am always find an excuse not to buy one. However, recently I find myself wishing I had this item, KNOWING I would use it all the time, especially at school. You guessed it. It is a to-go tumbler with straw. The one I really like is the Starbucks Venti tumbler with the green straw, but I think it got discontinued?? I haven't been able to find it for sale anywhere.

I like the Turvis Tumblers and tried to find one with my initial on it, but didn't find any pics of one online... or where to buy it. ALSO: it says that it takes 3 weeks to monogram and ship out... which seems a bit ridiculous for a cup.

So i started searching similar options and found these!

For $3.99!

They are tumblers that come in several color options, and are sold mainly to companies, and you can print your logo on the side (for $50ish) or whatever, but it is super cheap to get them blank! Still cute and functional! Here's the website:
http://www.discountmugs.com/nc/sports-bottles/2276/16-oz-double-wall-acrylic-tumbler-with-straw.htm

2. Ok so, I recently went into Bath&BodyWorks at the Galleria, for the first time in who knows how long? And they are having some AMAZING DEALS! I bought my very first wall flower, and got 2 refill bottles free all for $12.99. The scents I got were Carribbean Escape (to finish out the last monthes of summer) and Kitchen Spice (which smells like the most warm, cinnamon, vanilla, spice goodness... and will be PERFECT for fall) I love their new candles and would love to get one their new portable scents for my car. The scent I loved that was too strong for my apartment was ISLAND NECTAR. (sooo good!) I think it would be perfect for my car though. They are onsale for $5 at Bath and Body Works!! They had a ton of good smells to choose from!

Awesome! They are also having some pretty good deals on their wall flowers mix and match 4 for $20. And buy 1 get one free. Check out their website.
http://www.bathandbodyworks.com/category/index.jsp?categoryId=2488772&cp=2484529

3. Another trend I have been loving lately that I haven't made the effort to jump onto are headbands. And not just the skinny metallic ones (I did go that far, and bought a back of 4 skinny ones) But I'm talking about the headbands with some sort of embellishment on the side, making it extra special and polishing off a whole look. I'm not sure where to find the best ones or even what good prices for these are.... but here are two that I found at Sears.com for $5.98 each.

They have ones with the flower or bow on the side that are really cool, I don't know if I could handle something so big though? Who knows?
And they also have ones that have some sort of jeweled design which I love! It gives it an extra pop, and says look at me, in a way that’s not too flashy.

All in all, this is a trend I want to get on top of. I've seen several headbands recently that have an embellishment, and have a homemade or crafty look that would go great with casual or dressy attire.

I'm proud of my friends!!

Today my beautiful friend Sarah Selleck found out that she has been accepted in the Nursing program at UA!!! We both cried on the phone when she told me. It is so exciting to share a success with someone and seem them reaching a goal.

After dinner tonight, Kate suggested that we get her a little something to say congrats and show how proud of her we are.

Kate knows how things like this are done because she too has been accepted in to UAB nursing school!!!!!! AMAZING. (which makes 4 nursing programs total that she's gotten into... long story!) Anyways, when she got her good news, a friend of hers got her a cute little name badge, card holder type thing.

We went out to Target in search of little things that said YOU'RE GOING TO BE A NURSE! and WE'RE PROUD OF YOU!!

After one whole HOUR of shopping around, we walked out with:

— an organizer/wall calander made by Real Simple, so she can stay organized

— a pack of notecards, for all the studying she'll be doing

— a pack of mechanical pencils

— a yellow notebook, that matches her NEW yellow bedspread (things like matching are so important in the nursing world. haha :)

— a pack of multi-colored mini Post-it notes

— a box of Kleenex tissues for the stress of it all... (also in a yellow design)

We drove to her house, rang the bell, and surprised her with gifts and love! We listened to her tell the story of opening the letter, and finding out about all the new things she'll get to do and where she'll have to park this year (parking is KIND OF a BIG DEAL at UA)

It wasn't about the gifts, or even the surprise.... It was about showing someone that you care about them. Being able to shower someone with love and encouragement in their successes, and comfort with someone in their troubles. Listening is key.

I am so proud of Kate and Sarah. They have worked so hard, and are achieving a real life dream. Nursing school is not easy, and getting into a program is a MAJOR DEAL.

Congrats to both of you!

I thank God for giving me friends like you. Friends who truly CARE about each other. Friends who are willing to sit and talk for hours about problems that aren't their own, even when there seems to be no solution. Friends that give encouragement. Friends that uplift, and don't tear each other down. Friends who will drive long distances just to sit with each other in times of need. Friends who communicate often and laugh a lot.

So, happy day!!! I am so proud of my friends and excited to share in this new chapter of their lives..... or as I like to call it College Part 2... aka HARD COLLEGE.

Birthday Wish List

I know all of you are anxiously awaiting the arrival of my 22nd year. ...fear not! It is almost upon us. You are probably stressing out about what to get me. once again... fear not!
I am going to put together a simple list complete with pictures and prices to help ensure your shopping ease. (this is basically just for you mom.)
Lets get started:

1. Since I'm moving into a new apartment, I am bringing my bed. My comforter that I have used for the past three years, and absolutely LOVED is a twin. I am so sad that I can't use it on my Full/Queen size it is. I even considered using it and just letting it be TOO SMALL!
However, I started browsing for inexpensive comforters online and found one that i LOVE at target.com.
It is not my typical color scheme (RED,pink) or typical design (stripes) but I must say for $27.98 (Queen, I'd like it to be a little large) it is an AMAZING deal. it comes with 2 shams, the comforter, and a bed skrit! It has to be ordered online i think so here is the link. (HINT: MOM CLICK THIS NOW) http://www.target.com/dp/B001NHRC3C?sortReviews=%2Brating&ref=pd_tab_grev_sort_LowestRatingFirst#communityReviews

2. Another thing one needs when moving into a new apartment is their own bathroom. LUCKILY I will have one for the first time EVER. So excited. Meaning, I will need to get a few things I never needed to get over the past three years of college, that would be a shower curtain, liner, and hooks. This is a shower curtain i LOVE. This is also found at target.com as well as in stores.

For $19.99 it is a great deal and super cute Not to mention it will look so good with my new floral chic bedspread in the next room.
It will need some sort of liner to go with it. The cheapest ones I could find on the target website were $9.99. Any clear liner will do.
The curtain is going to need some hooks. I really have no preference on these AT ALL. Here is some basic shower curtain rings for $9.88 (cool birthday gift right?)

3. Now for the fun stuff. ACCESSORIES!
I am in desparate need of some gold dangly earrings. Here are some cute ones at a great price.

These are $3.80 from Forever21.com

$4.80 at Forever21.com

These are $3.80 from Forever21.com
((they wouldn't have to be this exact pair... these are just some shape/style ideas))

4. Makeups
I like eyeshadow palettes in neutrals and plum. Here's an example..
Maybeline Eyestudio Eyeshadow in Sinful Sinnamon 80 ($5.94 at walmart)


5. Technology
Mouse for my laptop. $49.99 This will make my design projects much easier to navigate. A mouse is a better tool than the track pad when it comes to design projects.


So this is just a random conglomeration of birthday wishes.

Birthdays

I love nothing more than birthdays!! They are the most special day of the year, and the focus is all on you. I love to plan them, organize and decorate. (and I'm not just talking about my birthday... I'm talking about ALL BIRTHDAYS!)

My mom and I share a birthday, July 30... feel free to send gifts ... So it is hard to do anything for just one of us. So what we do is, we normally celebrate her birthday on the 30th, and I'll do something for MY birthday before or after with some of my friends.

Anyways today is my friend Brittany Moore's 22nd birthday. She had a party down in Tuscaloosa at her apartment this weekend, that I was so excited to attend. (Yes, that's right... I will go the distance for a birthday.) Anyways today is her ACTUAL birthday and she is celebrating with her family. Since I can't be there, I decided to make my very first birthday video. It is currently uploading to YOUTUBE as we speak.

I had a lot of fun making it and thought I'd share it with you! (Of course I've already posted it to her facebook wall, so don't think she's missing out!)

Let me know what you think. Hahaha... or not... It was pretty silly.

Until next time

Katie Wood

UPDATE

Ok so recently I have been feeling bloggers remorse. meaning.. I have spent time reading other people's blogs, thinking to myself 'man I really wish I had time to write something on my blog' and then carry on with my day.... not writing anything at all.

Not to say that I'm not writing, because as most people who know me, know I am interning at The Alabama Baptist Newspaper this summer, and I'm basically writing all day everyday. (just not the fun stuff, in NON-AP style :) )

So let me just say that there are two blogs (both of people I know) that I have been consistently reading for pure entertainment. LOVE them! They are full of funny stories and great photos, and really who doesn't love a story with photos??

RANDOM STORY BUT KINDOF ON TOPIC -- ok here's a quick story about how good these blogs are: I am subscribed to my friend Laura's twitter (check her out @lwilderwoman) and anyways because I work an 8-5 job I don't get to check my facebook and twitter as often as I'd like so I'm subscribed to certain people so their updates get sent to my phone. Anyways Laura tweeted that she had a new blog post and I was DYING to go read it. I waited till I finished what I was working on to take a little... um... let's call it a break? So I logged on and started to read. It was so good, that I scrolled down and noticed their was a couple I had missed. As I was reading I completely lost track of time, and actually started laughing out loud.... OUT LOUD. Now this would not be a problem if I had controllable laughter, but if you know me you know that once I start, it becomes even funnier the more I try to stifle it. All in all, lesson learned, wait till I get home to read these oh so enjoyably entertaining blog posts. ...and maybe unsubcribe some of my twitter contacts from my phone, seeing as how they tempt me so! ....on second thought, I'll just work on the first part.

Back to reality...

Other blogs I have been checking out are Home Decorating, Design on a Budget, Do it Yourself type of crafting, revamp old furniture blogs. This is because well, first of all I LOVE craft projects and secondly I am moving into a new apartment for my senior year of college, so I've been looking for COLLEGE BUDGET FRIENDLY projects and cheap ways to make yard sale finds, my style... ha, or just sanitary enough to be around.

All that to say, its a Saturday. No work, nothing to stop me from whipping up a blog post, so that's exactly what's happening. I'd also like to say that I'm going to work on writing more frequently.... because there are QUITE a few ISSUES going down in my life, and this just may be an interesting way to vent. Well... we'll see.

Until next time.

Katie Wood