monogram momma

Open for Business!

2010-05-14T13:05:00.002-04:00

So, today is the day! I've been working my pink and green behind off to get my website ready for a "soft launch" and today is the day! I'm so excited that I will now be able to accept wholesale orders for many of my products, and will be adding to that weekly. I am overflowing with ideas and there are so many things I want to do and products I want to make, but I'm going to take it slowly as I'm still trying to figure this all out as I go.

So, to kick off my website launch and wholesale opportunities, from now through May 31st I'm offering BUY 1 GET 1 on all my tee's. Absolutely PERFECT for family reunions, beach trips, teachers gifts, or coaches gifts. To take advantage of the BOGO offer, purchase 1 tee at checkout, then specify in "seller instructions" the size and details for your 2nd, FREE tee! Please note that the 2nd tee must be of equal or lesser value, and will get shipped right to your door via USPS!

Click here to check out all the new products and graphics
from Southern Wears & Gifts!

Cheese Straws

2010-04-23T09:52:00.004-04:00

Today starts the kick-off to mini #1's First Communion weekend. We are all very excited and as you can imagine, I have a big reception planned following the ceremony. 17 family members are flying or driving in town (beginning today!) so I've pretty much been a crazy person this week preparing for it all. Naturally, that includes food, and what proper Southern event is complete without cheese straws???

Here's my recipe that is very simple. They turn out light and flaky without that spicy bite that a lot of other cheese straw recipe's have. Feel free to add more cayenne to spice it up if you prefer, but I that's just not how I prefer mine. *note: this recipe yields about 4 dozen

Ingredients
-2 cups all-purpose flour
-2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
-3/4 cup margarine (I use it room temp)
-1 tsp baking powder
-1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
-1/2 tsp salt
-1/2 cup water

Directions

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. I always put down wax paper or parchment paper on my baking sheets.
Combine flour, baking powder, cayenne pepper, salt, grated cheese and margarine in a bowl and mix until well combined. Then add a little water at a time to make a stiff dough. I like to work it better w/ my hands at this point.
On a floured surface, roll out dough pieces into desired thickness. Then using a paring knife, cut sticks into lengths (my sizes vary from 4"-10"). Use a spatula and arrange on baking sheet.
Bake at 400 degrees for 5 minutes until browned (this is more like 7 minutes in my oven).

Rainy Days & Thursdays

2010-04-08T10:18:00.004-04:00

It's Spring Break over here at Casa Monogram we've been raisin' the roof and gettin' wild and crazy with laundry, baseball practice, play dates, and trying on last summers clothes. I know. Try to contain your excitement. It's enough to make me want to run out and have matching air brushed t-shirts made for each of us that read SPRING BREAK '10!

And while I'd planned to hit the tennis courts this morning, the thunderstorms have put a damper on my plans so that leaves me to plan B: find a dress for mini #1's First Communion for once and for all. Truth be told I've bought probably 4 dresses and consequently taken them all back because I've not liked them once I've gotten them home. Because as it turns out? Your ass really is as big at home as it is in the department store dressing room. Who knew?

So I haven't found a dress yet, but I did just stumble upon these little gems at L.L. Bean. Lovely, just lovely. And with a Free Shipping coupon code 3018863, my rainy day just got a little bit sunnier.

Coastal Rain Skimmers

Bright Navy

Cake Wrecks

2010-03-31T11:17:00.006-04:00

To give credit where credit is due, sister #1 posted this on Facebook yesterday and it was so hysterical that it was worth sharing. We've all seen them... The sweet little creatures the local bakery has decimated with their piping bags and decorative tips. But now someone has dedicated a blog to them, and it's right on par with People of Walmart, People of the Park, and Awkward Family Photo's. All I know is if Martha saw these cakes it would surely send her to an early grave!

Cake Wrecks
When Professional Cakes go Horribly, Hilariously Wrong

source & photo: Cake Wrecks

NESTing Bowls

2010-03-29T13:16:00.004-04:00

I love catching a tweet with a "must-do" craft project, and this one looks so easy and fun that I quickly tagged it a "favorite." It would have been perfect for the nesting baby shower I hosted last year for bff, Ashley, but it's also absolutely perfect for Easter decorations and Spring decor in general. Think what cute candy bowls this craft would make!

You Will Need
-4 sheets of fuchsia heavy-weight paper, 12" (30.5cm) square, such as card stock
-2 sheets of orange heavy-weight paper, 12" (30.5cm) square, such as card stock
-3 sheets of red heavy-weight paper, 12" (30.5cm) square, such as card stock
-Paper shredder or scissors
-Glue
-Water
-3 nesting bowls
-Brush
-Cling wrap, enough to cover the outer area of the 3 bowls

Instructions

1. Shred the fuchsia paper using an office crosscut paper shredder. If using a regular paper shredder, cut the strips into lengths of about 11/2" (3.8cm). If no paper shredder is available, use scissors to cut strips of paper that are 1/8" x 1/2" (3mm x 3.8cm).

2. Prepare a solution of glue and water that is 2 parts of glue per 1 part water. Don’t add too much water, or the paper will not hold together. Each bowl will require at least 1/2 cup (118ml) of the drippy glue solution.

3. Wrap the large bowl with cling wrap, and place it upside down on a surface covered with plastic.

4. Place the fuchsia shredded paper into another bowl, and sprinkle with some water (no more than 1 tablespoon [15ml]) to dampen the card stock.

5. Start by brushing the bottom of the cling-wrapped bowl with some of the glue solution. Add a small clump of paper (about 4–6 strips) in random fashion, and brush or dab more glue solution over them until they are damp enough that they lay flat and adhere to the bowl.

Instead of using colored card stock, this is the perfect opportunity to make something out of shredded office paper. The bowls will end up looking more rustic with the different colors of paper and typographic elements on them.

6. Continue adding clumps of paper strips, brushing the area they will cover with the glue solution and then brushing the glue solution over them. Cover the bowl until you’re about 2" (5cm) from the top edge of the bowl or the work surface. The bowl should be covered by at least 3 levels of paper to ensure stability. The edge of the bowl needs to be generally even, but keep it ragged by making some of the strips on the final row point downward, perpendicular to the work surface.

Tip: It’s important that the glue stay w enough to firmly hold the bowl together. The consistency of the 2 parts glue to 1 part water should resemble liquid soap. As you apply the glue solution, keep in mind that the more layers of paper are added the stronger the bowls will be. Allow drying time between layers. Note: Don’t worry about covering the surface completely. Part of the charm of the bowls is to leave some small spaces, no larger than 1/8" (6mm), between some of the strips.

7. Place the bowl in a dry and well-ventilated area, and let the surface dry completely. This process may take a day or two. If you’d like to speed it, place the bowl close to a Instead of using colored card stock, this is the perfect opportunity to make something out of shredded office paper. The bowls will end up looking more rustic with the different colors of paper and typographic elements on them. fan. Once the surface appears dry to the touch, carefully remove the bowl from the cling wrap and let it air dry face up until the inside of the bowl is completely dry as well.

8. Repeat the same process (steps 1-7) for the medium bowl using red paper and the smallest bowl using orange paper.

source & photo's: Woman's Day

Here Comes Peter Cottontail

2010-03-24T09:24:00.007-04:00

Easter is right around the corner. Now I don't know about y'all, but when I was growing up, all the Easter Bunny ever put in our baskets were loads of candy, peeps, the obligatory large chocolate bunny, and a few small trinkets. It was packed to the gills mind you, but it was pretty much all candy. But somehow from then to now, the Easter Bunny has become as revered as Santa Claus with the children I know (yes, including my own), and mere candy just does not suffice. The Easter Bunny is now expected to deliver toys, games, money, candy, and pretty much anything else he can fit in that basket. And the baskets? Well naturally they've become supersized as well.

So what is a mom to do? And who the hell started all this hype to begin with? I want to know who the hell is responsible for hyping up the Easter Bunny as big as Santa Claus?? I mean, I barely recover from Christmas and I have mini #1's birthday, which is then followed by Easter. I am going to need a holiday bail-out program at this rate! And while I'm on my soap box, let's just go over the long list of people I'm supposed to keep up with... Of Course there's Santa, St. Nicholas (for my fellow Catholics), the Tooth Fairy, The Leprechauns on St. Patrick's Day, & finally the Easter Bunny. WHY DO I EVEN BOTHER LOCKING THE DOOR with all these people coming in and out of my house.

Anyway, my real point of this post is that with Easter a week and a half away, I'm a bit behind on my Easter Bunny shopping. In case you haven't heard, the Easter Bunny is very busy these days trying to keep up the house since it's on the market, start her new business, and let's face it, she certainly can't miss her Young & the Restless. So I thought I'd share a few things the Easter Bunny will be including in baskets at the Monogram's house this year, in case your Easter Bunny needs a few ideas. Also? Our Easter Bunny is always looking for some cute little things for our baskets as well so please share away if you've got any suggestions of your own.

I remember watching this cartoon series in the 80's, and since my boys are obsessed with all games including Super+Mario, these inexpensive DVD's of the cartoon series will be included in their baskets this year. Santa delivered one to each of them in their stockings as well, and they LOOOOOVE THEM. You can pick them up here for the great price of $5.99 ea. and they really are hilarious.

The Easter Bunny just had to buy these and if you have to ask why, then you haven't been coming around here long enough to know we are obsessed w/ our Chocolate Lab (both current and past one). The boys will love these and as a BONUS they are on sale for a mere $11.49 at my favorite affordable kids store, Gymboree.

I have no idea what Mighty Beanz are, and I'm not entirely sure my kids do either. However, as the commercial is played constantly during Spongebob when we get home from school, the mini's are "dyiiiiing" for Mighty Beanz. At $4.99, I believe the Easter Bunny can make this happen as well.

Last year the Easter Bunny brought DS games so I believe he should keep with that and bring another DS game again (because the 10,345,857 DS games they have apparently aren't enough). At this point he is leaning towards the "I Spy" DS game for mini #1 and Lego Batman for mini #2, but it could also come down to whateversonsale.

Our Easter Bunny always brings Flip Flops. Always has, always will. I love these from Crewcuts and buy them every year, although I'm sad to see they didn't do a madras one for kids this year. Booooooo. They are $19.50 now, but I'm sure that after I buy them they'll go on sale for $12.50 like they usually do.

Much like the Flip Flops, our Easter Bunny brings new goggles every year also. Why? Because kids lose everything, especially goggles. And new goggles also get them excited about Summer and the swimming and warm weather that is right around the corner.

So those the additional items that will accompany all the candy and chocolate in the mini's baskets this year. Now, what about you? What does your Easter Bunny like to bring???

Paper Cherry Blossom's

2010-03-22T08:50:00.007-04:00

Spring is right around the corner. Despite a high in the low 40's today, I can feel it in my bones! And with Spring around the corner, that means it's time to lighten things up a bit and get in a more colorful mood. I stumbled upon this simple craft that I LOVE, and would look great as a simple decor in a guest room, on the kitchen table, or even make a fabulous shower decoration.

You Will Need
*Thin Pink paper
*Tape
*Scissors
*Bare branches
*Vase or frame

Directions
1) If you are not using origami paper, cut your paper into squares. For a better looks, use two different sizes of squares, 3 in. and 2.5 in.

2) Cut your branches to a size that will suit the frame or vase that you are using.

3) Fold your squares into cherry blossoms. You can find out how to fold them here (http://www.origami-club.com/en/flowers/sakura2/index.html). You can create slight variations in the flowers by the you cut them.

4) After you have arranged your branches in a vase or frame, attach the folded cherry blossoms to the branches using tape.

Source & Photos: Book Hour Craft Projects

Leprechaun Traps & Tricks

2010-03-16T09:56:00.009-04:00

I am not Irish. And probably because I'm not Irish, I wasn't raised where St. Patrick's Day was a huge deal. Sure, we always wore green for luck, but mostly that was also so as not to spend the day getting pinched, either. Probably another reason St. Patrick's Day wasn't so huge to us was also because my birthday is the day AFTER St. Patrick's Day. But I digress...

As is turns out, lots of people celebrate St. Patrick's Day. Irish or not. And now that I'm a parent, I have to admit to getting into it a bit more. Irish or not. Some mom's I know go so far as to set "traps" so the leprechauns can't come play tricks on them. Did you know leprechauns are tiny crazy little things and love to play tricks on people? Yeah well me either. But apparently they've been known to do things like turn the gallon of milk green, toilet water green, leave green confetti all over people's houses, leave green ice cubes in the freezer, etc. Therefore, to avoid being tricked by the leprechaun, it is a good idea to create a trap for them.

Enter our Kindergarten Family Project. Each family had to create a leprechaun trap, which we had to send in today. And since I was out of town for 4 days over the weekend, this was left up to Mr. Monogram to execute. We were told in our project instructions that leprechauns do NOT obey signs or directions, that they like sparkly and shiny things, lots of sweets, and of course, gold. So after Mr. Monogram and the boys put most of the trap together, the boys and I completed the final decor after school and If I do say so, I think we've got our self a mighty fine leprechaun trap.

{The outside of our trap says "NO Leprechauns Allowed!" The leprechaun will enter through the tiny door w/ the gold pathway where there is a sign that tells him NOT to stand on that stack of coins and pull that green string for more gold coins. When he pulls it, because of course they do NOT follow directions, it dumps over the bucket with the marble, the marble goes down the steps, into the yellow bucket, and the trap falls down on TOP og the leprechan who us standing on the stack of gold coins. TRAPPED!}

At our school, the kindergartner's will lay their leprechaun traps outside their rooms along the hallway, and their 8th grade buddies will come fill them up with treats and so forth to make it look like leprechauns came. Cute, right? Then tomorrow, while they are in Music class, the homeroom mom's are coming in and "tricking" out the classroom and bringing in green lemonade, green cupcakes, etc. I can't wait to see their little faces.

Now, if you want to set up some tricks of your own, check out this, & this. And for trap ideas you can easily whip up today, go look at this, and this. Happy St. Paddy's Day!

20 Minute Chops

2010-03-09T16:22:00.001-05:00

Maybe someday my kids won't be suck picky eaters, but until that day arrives, I'm pretty much resigned to making multiple meals each night. To be fair, they HAVE gotten slightly better, I totally have to give credit to our school lunch lady, Ms. Rhonda. However, now that there's so much of Ms. Rhonda's food they'll eat, mine is always second best.

KIDS: Mom, what are we having for dinner?

Me: Taco's!!KIDS: OH GROSSS.. Ms. Rhonda's taco's are way better than yours.

Me: Well she gave me her recipe so they'll be exactly the same from now on. Isn't that great?!

KIDS: Mom. We know she didn't give you her recipe.

Sooo, anyway. Here I sit playing second fiddle to the school lunch lady. But that's okay. Luckily, Mr. M will eat pretty much anything, which is a good thing because since having picky eating children, I no longer enjoy cooking. And not enjoying cooking + having to make multiple meals = inventing easy peasy good tasting recipes. Here's Mr. M's newest favorite that literally takes me about 20 minutes from start to finish.

Pear & Apricot Glazed Pork Chops

-Boneless pork chops
-Low sodium soy sauce
-Emeril's Essence (spices)
-Vegetable spray
-Jar of Pear & Apricot Preserves (mixed)

1) Marinate the Pork chops in the soy sauce and also put the Emeril's Essence on them.

2) Once marinated for about 30 minutes, I spray the skillet with vegetable spray, and cook the pork chops (You can also do this on your indoor grill or even outdoor grill. This is just the quickest way.)

3) When pork chops are almost done cooking, put 1 or 2 tablespoons (use to your discretion) of the Pear and Apricot Preserves on top of each pork chop.

4) I like to take the lid to a pot and put it over the pan at this point so the preserves will thin and get warmer quicker.

5) Once the preserves have warmed up and the meat is cooked through, that's it!

*Note* I always serve rice with this meal.

March Brings Change

2010-03-01T12:49:00.004-05:00

Happy March! We are expecting more snow tomorrow and Wednesday but I just know Spring is around the corner there somewhere. I'm not one to complain about the snow, however, because I really love it. Trust me, I know I'm the minority on this though, with the exception of my twitter friend @kmwa!

March is starting off w/ a lot of change for me. As of today, I have resigned from Paper Concierge to pursue my SWAG (Southern Wears & Gifts) line on Etsy. With that means new designs, new products, a new website, and wait for it... WHOLESALING! I'm so excited that I'll be able to offer this to retailers because over the years I have had a good bit of inquiry into wholesaling my tee's but haven't been able to do that. However, I'm in the process of purchasing my own equipment (press), large format printer, etc. to be able to do all the printing myself now, and not have to outsource a third party for my tee's. I will still continue to use a third party for my custom cards and stationery, however, perhaps in the future that will be able to change as well. One thing at a time for now, though!

Anyway, I am beyond excited. Last week I got my business licence, resale license, tax ID #, and even opened a business bank account. This is all completely foreign to me though and to be quite frank, I have no clue what I'm doing! But, that's okay, I'll figure it out. I have had a couple great blogging friends in the industry who have been a HUGE support for me and really encouraged me to do this. You know who you are, and you know I could not and would not be doing this were it not for your encouragement and assistance!

Stay tuned for all the new things coming your way! And if there's anything you want to see, let me know!

Bring on the change, March!

Let's Get This Party Started!

2010-02-26T08:46:00.002-05:00

It's party day! And I'm beginning to think I've completely gone ape shit and lost my mind to have 8 boys sleeping over (plus my 2 which makes a grand total of 10). Oh well, we can always nap tomorrow.

After much hemming and hawing, I finally figured out the party favors and they are ADORABLE if I do say so myself (which of course, I'm going to). I ended up finding large red, white, and blue sports bottles and I custom created labels for each boy's bottle which also match the invites I designed. I'll go into more detail on the labels next week when I post a picture, but they are going to be great. Super easy, super easy on your wallet, and oh so cute!

I've got a million errands to run today so I had to reschedule my 9:30 hair appointment. I seriously don't think my hair has been this long since I was a senior in HS. I can't even reach all the way to the bottom of it when I brush the back of it, it is THAT. LONG. Ugh. At this point nothing would make me happier than for Vidal Sassoon to show up on my doorstep and just cut it already since I keep having to reschedule this appointment.

Anyway, before I rush off this morning I thought I'd share 2 fun little activities since 1) I am hosting an Olympic Birthday Sleepover tonight and 2) the Olympics end this weekend (BOOOOO!). Check 'em out...

Fun Winter Olympics Bingo Game for the whole family (because as you know, the Monograms are some game loving people)
2010 Closing Ceremonies Drinking Game for the over 21 set. So this is really written for the opening ceremonies, but can totally still work for the closing ceremonies as well. Hell, let the kids play Bingo and the adults play this game and it's sure to make Vancouver 2010 memorable for all!

Party Favors

2010-02-23T16:24:00.003-05:00

For once I am at a loss. With the help of Mr. M, I think I've gotten the details of this "Lego Olympics" party down. Although to be truthful, it is turning out to be more wii Olympics and notsomuch "lego" if you catch my drift. Anyhoo, I'm having an issue with party favors. I have a call into a local chocolate specialty shop to see if they can create a chocolate snowboarder or chocolate olympic rings or even a chocolate olympic medal. Fingers crossed on that but if not, what else can I do for a great party favor? I don't like to do the generic bag of crap and it's too late for me to call my favorite cookie lady to do favors.

Any ideas?

Let's Talk

2010-02-22T16:42:00.002-05:00

So, it's been 3 long months since I've sat down and giving this blog any attention. Forgive me for ignoring all of you, but many of you I have kept up w/ and interacted with via Twitter, so I haven't been completely gone. At any rate, the past 3 months were super busy with Paper Concierge, my Etsy shop, my family, friends, and my fundraising at the mini's school. In a nut shell, it all turned me into a complete nut myself, but I am ready to sit back down at the keyboard and start giving my blog a little attention again.

Right now I'm working on planning mini #1's 8th birthday party. Talk about where did time go?! I can't believe my oldest is 8 when it seems like yesterday I was calling caterers for his 1st birthday party. Don't worry, there will be no caterers this year. At 8, it seems they want sleepovers and pizza and wii games, so that I shall provide. My theme this year is the "Lego Olympics" and I'm embarassed to admit I haven't even figured out what that exactly means yet (I did, however, design a super cute invitation that everyone has loved if that counts for anything!)! I do know that we will be doing some sort of lego building competition, and also doing the wii olympics w/ medal winners. However, I need prizes and treats and medals and all sorts of stuff I can't even figure out yet. This is so not like me! And then there's the cake. I always make a big deal about the cake, but do a I have Lego Cake done or an Olympics cake done? Decisions, decisions...

So I'm off for now to start to figure all this out, but I promise I'll be back this time. ;-)

Where I've Been, What I've Been Doing

2009-11-10T08:20:00.002-05:00

I'm just popping in for a quick minute. I do have some great projects jotted down but this week I am up to my eyeballs in things to do. In short, here's what's been going on...

Mini #2 has been having a difficult time w/ his lungs. Took some time off of school last week and amped up his meds and he's still recovering.
I got Advanced Upper Respiratory Bronchitis at the same time. Argh!
Participated in a great Holiday Market my friend puts on at her beautiful home every November. However, this wasn't so much fun because of the above statement.
We are close to FINALLY putting the house on the market any day now. FINALLY!!! However, this means we've been crazy getting things checked off our "to-do" list and get all the pictures done.

And now, because I've got to whip together new window treatments for our Master Bath before the house goes on the market, it is off to the sewing machine I go!!

Surprise Sales!

2009-11-03T15:41:00.003-05:00

SURPRISE SALE! Now through Wednesday @ 5pm E.S.T., buy 1 get 1 HALF OFF on all Donovan Designs notepad sets PLUS receive a pink and green "mini" pad of 50 sheets for FREE with each order. Perfect for "From the Mom Of" notepads for Holiday gift giving with dozens of designs to chose from! Use code donovanpad at checkout. CLICK HERE!!

But wait! That's not all! 100 Whitney English photo cards printed for $86? We are NOT kidding! While supplies last so HURRY!!! CLICK HERE!

Time to Unload

2009-11-02T16:27:00.004-05:00

I consider myself very lucky to be able to be a stay-at-home mom. Not a day doesn't go by that I don't appreciate it, or realize what a luxury it truly is. And one of the great things about being able to stay home is that I have plenty of time to volunteer. Or so I thought I had plenty of time.

As it turns out, when you spend all your "free time" volunteering, that means you have no time for the things that actually fall under the job description of being a SAHM. Those things include (but are not limited to) washing, folding, & putting away laundry, loading and unloading the dishwasher, cleaning the extra dishes in the sink, all the additional housework such as cleaning toilets, changing sheets, vacuuming, dusting, etc., and grocery shopping. Coincidentally, these are also the things I've been royally sucking at lately because I've completely over committed myself. At the beginning of the year I felt like because the boys were in school, I had plenty of time to give to their school, and this was important for me to do as a SAHM. But now that's taken all my time, and today I finally had a break down. And there were tears.

You see, somewhere between my fundraising (which I love and wouldn't ever give up), cafeteria duty, home room mom duty (times TWO, mind you because I certainly don't want to hurt either of my kids feelings), field trips, and sewing All Saints costumes all day Saturday and Sunday, it hit me that all these things that I normally love, are just "Things To Do" now. I love All Saints Day. But I was miserable sewing and crafting these costumes all weekend long, and just wanted to get it over with. I'm stressed beyond belief, and all because I was so afraid of having nothing to do to pass the time while the boys were in school, that now I have no time to do the things I actually should be doing. Are you still with me?

So tomorrow is a new day. Tomorrow I start to say "no." Tomorrow I start to say "I would love to but my plate is full." I am determined to enjoy the Holiday season in my clean and organized home with my children, and that begins tomorrow.

Last Minute Recession Friendly Halloween Costumes

2009-10-30T14:09:00.003-04:00

And by recession friendly, ya'll know I totally me C-H-E-A-P. I ran accross these somehow and thought I'd post them on here in case any of you are headed to a Halloween party this weekend and still don't have a costume. Some of these are hilarious, and you can totally pull off last-minute!

1. A Highway: Wear all black sweat suit, stick on white or yellow tape on your legs and chest to resemble lines in a road. Attach tiny cars and road signs onto your pants and shirt.

2. Nudist on Strike: Wear normal clothes and wear a sign around your neck that says “Nudist on Strike.”

3. Flasher: Wear regular clothes under a long trench coat. Make a belt out of flashbulbs or old cameras. Tell people you are a flasher and then flash at will.

4. Grim Reaper on Vacation: Buy or make a Grim Reaper outfit, but then wear a lei or flowered necklace, a camera around your neck, Bermuda shorts, paint your nose white (like lifeguards) and carry around some postcards or a map.

5. Typical Tourist: Wear a big floppy hat, flowered shirt and long shorts, flip-flop sandals and a camera around your neck. Carry a map and look lost all the time.

6. Cheating Husband: Men can wear a button down shirt that is buttoned all wrong, pants slightly unzipped, shoes untied or on wrong feet, lipstick kisses on collar, shirt, neck or even on pants and hair

messed up. Tell people you didn’t dress in costume, you forgot about the party and just dropped what you were doing to come over.

7. Cheating Wife: Women can wear a skirt with the back tucked into pantyhose; hair messed up, make-up smeared and bra on the outside of shirt.

8. Undecided: Wear solid colored clothing and cut question marks out of paper. Staple or pin them to your outfit and when people ask what you are tell them either “I don’t know, what am I?” or “It’s still a mystery.”

9. Ultimate Superhero: Gather together many elements of superhero costumes such as Superman’s Cape, Batman’s mask, Green Lantern’s ring, etc. and wear them all.

10. Twister Game: Buy a Twister game. Staple ribbon to two corners of the spinner and tie the ribbon under your chin so the spinner becomes a “hat.” Cut a hole in the center of the Twister mat and wear it like a poncho. All night long you can tell people to “put left hand on red” and so on.

11. Web Surfer: Wear a wetsuit like surfers wear, then drape yourself with fake cobwebs.

12. Matchstick or Cigarette: Wear all white clothing with a red stocking cap. For a cigarette try wearing tan pants or cut white pants short and sew brown material from the end of the shorts down to your ankles. This makes the filter. If you can make a belt or sash with a brand name of the cigarette, even better!

13. Leaf Blower: Wear regular clothes. Wear a hat with a leaf hanging down from the rim so that the leaf is in front of your face. When people ask what you are blow on he leaf and make them guess.

14. Tornado: Wear all black or gray clothing. Sew strings of varying lengths all over your outfit. On the ends of the string, tie on tiny houses, people, cars, animals, etc. When people ask what you are, spin around fast and make sounds like a tornado.

15. Cereal Killer: Clothing should be kind of rugged and torn. Carry a bloody knife and have blood on your clothes. Attach labels or actual little cereal boxes all over your clothes.

16. Miss Matched: Dress in a gown such as a beauty

queen might wear. Buy wide ribbon long enough for a sash around your shoulder. On the sash write “Miss Matched.” Then wear your makeup different on both sides of your face, your hair styled different, different earrings, different shoes and different colored nail polish.

17. Killer Bee: Buy a bee costume. Smear some fake blood on it and carry a fake weapon.

18. Spelling Bee: Buy a bee costume. Attach felt or Velcro letters to your suit and carry some around with you. If you can get enough little letters in Velcro your friends will have fun spelling words on you!

19. Peeping Tom: Wear regular clothes and a name tag that says “Tom”. Make a window frame out of cardboard, even add curtains if you are feeling real creative. When people ask what you are, hold up the “window” and peep through it.

20. Red Riding in the Hood: Buy or make a red cape with hood. Have tattoos on your arms, a spiked collar, lots of piercing, etc. and talk tough all night long.

21. In the Shower: Wrap a towel around your body (wearing a tube top and shorts under the towel is optional). Wrap a towel around your head turban style or wear a shower cap. Carry a rubber duck and a back scrubber.

22. Cat Burglar: Wear black clothes, black stocking cap, ski mask or Lone Ranger-style mask. Carry a bag with some stuffed cats peeking out.

23. Kissing Booth: Find a box big enough to fit over your body. Cut or open the bottom and top of the box so that you can slip into the box. Tie rope onto one end of the box so the ropes can go over your shoulders (this will hold the box on you). Wear sexy clothes and have lipstick kisses on your clothes and face. On the box write “Kisses, $1.00.”

24. Work in Progress: Wear all white clothes, a sweat suit works best. Using a black permanent marker, you should draw shapes or bodily outlines all over your suit. Color some of the pieces/shapes in. Carry paints of markers with you and tell people you are a work in progress. Color on your costume all night long. Or, for more fun, have others color on you.

25. Self-Portrait. Wear a shirt that is light-colored enough for you to sign your name in the bottom corner. Make a picture frame out of cardboard or wood. When people ask what you are hold up your picture frame. The frame should be big enough so that from waist up you are in the frame and your signature is in the bottom corner like a portrait.

26. Fried Egg: Wear all white. Attach a piece of yellow felt to your stomach.

27. Sunny Side up Eggs: Wear all white. Attach a piece of yellow felt to your derriere. When people ask what you are bend over and say “sunny side up.”

28. Sleepy Housewife: Put your hair up in curlers; wear a bathrobe, no makeup and yawn a lot. Don’t forget fuzzy bunny slippers! This is especially funny for guys to dress up as.

29. Hump Day (Wednesday): Fashion a hump out of wadded up paper, material or foam and shove it under a short so that you have a hump on your back. On the front of your shirt, write either the word “day” or pull out one day on a daily calendar and pin it to your shirt.

30. Con Artist: Wear a “prison” uniform…the kind that is white with black stripes. Wear a beret hat and carry around an artist pallet and paint brush.

31. Horror Movie Victim: Mess up your hair, smear fake blood on clothes and face, and tear clothes so they are ragged. Walk around looking real paranoid and scream a lot.

32. Black and White Silent Film Star: Wear black and white clothes. Paint all showing skin light gray or white with gray shading around eyes, mouth, nose, etc. Do not talk all night. Or, mouth the words without speaking and hold up signs when done “speaking” (just like how silent films show the scene then show the subtitles).

33. Exterminator: Wear coveralls. Attach plastic bugs and spiders all over the outfit.

34. Gum under the Table: Make a small cardboard table and wear it on your head. Dress in all pink.

35. Picnic: buy or make a white and red checkered picnic blanket. Attach plastic or paper plates, plastic utensils and plastic food to it. Cut a hole in the center and wear the cloth like a poncho. Add some fake ants for that authentic effect!

36. Gum under a Shoe: Take an old shoe and if the laces are long enough tie them under your chin and wear the shoe like a hat. If laces are too short tie string onto the lace ends to make them longer. Wear all pink. For the best effect let your clothes get wrinkly to look like wadded up gum.

37. Perfume Sales Girl: Dress in really nice clothes and lots of makeup. Carry around many samples of perfume and squirt people all night long.

38. Under the Weather: On a hat attach clouds (cardboard and cotton balls), the sun, lightning bolts and raindrops.

39. Cloudy with a Chance of Showers: Attach cotton balls to a hat and clothes for clouds. When people ask what you are say “cloudy, with a chance of showers” and squirt them with a squirt gun.

40. Chain Smoker: Wrap chains around yourself and have a pack of cigarettes sticking out of your shirt pocket.

41. Jack-in-the-box: Find a box big enough to go around your waist. Attach rope to it for shoulder straps. Wear a name tag that says “Jack.”

42. Stood-Up Prom Date: Great for women but really funny for men who want to dress as a woman. Wear a prom dress, heels and make-up. Smudge eye-make up so it looks like you have been crying. Carry a box of tissues and have several tissues tucked into your waist sash, sticking out of your bodice, or anywhere you can stash one.

43. Killing Time: Carry some broken watches and clocks and a fake weapon. Throughout the night repeatedly stab at the clocks.

44. Time is on my side: Wear regular clothes. Attach watches or clocks to one side of your outfit; wear a bunch of wristwatches on only one wrist.

45. Time Flies: Wear wings and tie string onto a clock so you can wear the clock like a necklace.

46. Cupid: Best for large guys, but funny for anyone. Wear a diaper or toga, wings, and buy one of those cheap bow and arrows with the suction cups. Attach paper hearts to the suction cup end. Wear a ribbon sash that says “Cupid”

47. Spirit of Halloween: Wear black and orange. Attach as many Halloween decorations as you can to your outfit.

48. Read between the Lines: Wear a striped outfit or a solid colored outfit and draw strips on with a permanent or fabric marker. In between the lines write words or sentences.

49. The Bottom Line: Sweat pants will work best. Stuff the back of the sweat pants with newspaper or material to make it big. Draw or use colored tape to the seat of the pants.

50. Ice Queen: Wear white or light blue. Buy icicle decorations (like the kind for Christmas decorations) and drape them all over your body. Wear a silver crown or tiara.

Source: Essortment

Flu Be Damned

2009-10-30T07:08:00.004-04:00

After weeks, possibly months of us hiding under a rock and me scrubbing my children day and night with antibacterial soap, hand cleanser, & Lysol, the unthinkable happened. Mini #2 threw up last night. THREE TIMES. For you mom's keeping score, that is also 3 sheet changes on a day that I'd JUST changed sheets on the beds, so I'm completely out of sheets now and have been running my washing machine through the entire night and early morning. Ladies, I am TIRED.

I'll try to surface later, but right now I'm heading back into the trenches.

Platter Giveaway Winner!!

2009-10-28T07:38:00.004-04:00

We have a winner, folks! First of all, thank you to everyone for all the congratulatory Anniversary wishes. Ya'll are all too sweet! I have loved every second of the past year with Paper Concierge and am so happy I found it. Second of all, ya'll sure do love a cute platter!! Thank so so much for the enthusiasm and entries! Unfortunately there is only one winner, so here's how it broke down...

Everyone was assigned numbers based off of how many entries she had. For example, if one person earned 9 entries, then she was assigned numbers 1-9. If the next person earned 3 entries, then she was assigned numbers, 10-12. And so on and so forth. When all was said and done, everyone earned a grand total of 65 entries combined, and that was put into the random number generator at Random.Org (see below).

So the winning number was #57, making Third Coast Preppy the winner of my Anniversary Giveaway!Congratulations, Third Coast Prep!! You're monogrammed brown and white lattice platter will be on it's way to you soon, so you'll have it just in time for Thanksgiving! I am going to plan on doing another giveaway soon, so stay tuned. If there's anything in particular you guys want to see in a giveaway, let me know!

Tuesday Dash Sale: Dabney Lee TODAY ONLY!

2009-10-27T12:34:00.005-04:00

Get ready because the Tuesday Dash has started! TODAY ONLY, buy 1 Dabney Lee monogrammed salt & pepper shaker, get the second 1/2 price! This makes them a total of $30 each. The perfect price for the perfect gift for that hard-to-buy-for person on your list.

Use code shaker at checkout.

**ONLY AT PAPER CONCIERGE!**

Anniversary Giveaway

2009-10-26T08:05:00.008-04:00

**UPDATE** Oops! forgot to tell you when the giveaway deadline! You have 'til Tuesday night (tonight), 10-27-09, 10pm E.S.T. to enter. Good luck!

Happy Anniversary to ME!! It's my one year anniversary with Paper Concierge and to celebrate, I'm starting off the week with a giveaway!
How cute are these new Mayfly & Junebug platters?! Perfect for tailgating, your kitchen table, beach house, or gift giving, I think you will love these platters! Instead of showing up to Thanksgiving with the same 'ol bottle bottle of wine, you could be bringing an adorable personalized platter filled with cookies and treats as your hostess gift this year!

To Enter...

1) Check out my cute new platters here, then come back and leave a comment and tell me which one is your favorite. Make sure you put your email address or link to your blog so I can find you for 1 entry.

2) Tweet about my giveaway w/ a link to this post & also my twitter ID, @cmolino, for 1 entry.

3) Add my address to your blog Roll or become a follower for 2 entries.

4) Write a post about my giveaway on your blog for 3 entries.

5) Add my Paper Concierge button to your page and link it to my site (link should go to : http://www.cmolino.paperconcierge.com) for 5 entries.

Do it ALL, and that's 12 possibile entry's!!!

FLASHBACK: Halloween Costume Ideas

2009-10-23T09:17:00.003-04:00

Well, friends, it's time once again to start digging around to come up with that clever Halloween costume. And since Halloween is on a Saturday night this year (YAY!), I bet lots of you will be making the party rounds. And because I haven't had time to think of any clever new costume ideas other than the obvious Jon & Kate Gosselin (personally, my money is on this one being the most popular costume duo this year, or for the single gals, Nadya Suleman), I'm doing a flashback to my costume ideas from last year.

Halloween Costume Ideas

It’s that time of year again, folks. Yep. The time to start rummaging through your parents attics, your mess of a basement, the Halloween shops that have popped up on every street corner this time of year, and even (shutter) the thrift store. Why, you ask? It’s time to come up with some Halloween costumes. So with Halloween next week, this week is going to be all about costumes.

Thankfully, this year the Monogram’s will not be attending any Costume party’s as I can’t imagine squeezing one more event into the next two weeks. But since sister #2 has a big 40th birthday costume party to attend next weekend with her husband, she and I have been wracking our brains for great ideas for the past couple weeks. Naturally, that got me thinking that you guys might want a few ideas also, so I thought I’d share a few, for those of you scrambling to come up with a great Halloween costume. Have any other great ideas? Please share in comments!

Bob Ross

Olive Oil & Popeye or Brutus

Green Giant

Captain Crunch

PacMan & Ms. PacMan

Martha Stewart
You had to know I would put this on my list!

Carnival Sideshow people
This is the Bearded Lady,
but you can get some costume ideas here

Love Boat Crew
Since it's the 25th anniversary of the Love Boat, these costumes are
in your local costume shops for purchase this year!

Gortons Fisherman

Morton Salt Girl

Burger King “King” & Wendy from Wendy’s
This is my favorite idea this year!
You can pick up the Wendy’s wig here and the BK mask here.

Mel & Flo from the tv show Alice

Tuesday Dash: Sale til 3pm TODAY ONLY!

2009-10-20T11:44:00.002-04:00

Starting today, on random Tuesday's or Thursdays, we will be hosting a surprise sale on our most popular items over at Paper Concierge. So get your Christmas list together because we've got some awesome product sales coming your way!

CLICK HERE for today's 5 hours sale on our most popular product!!

Hallowenn Felt Garlands

2009-10-19T06:44:00.002-04:00

I made my first felt bunting a few weeks ago for the Auburn/UT game and it turned out so stinkin' cute (if I do say so) that I thought to myself, "Why not make some cute Halloween garlands, while you're at it?!" So I did.

All last week, I sat in the pick-up line at the Mini's school with my scissors and felt and cut out my shapes, and now that they're completed and hung, I knew this would be a simple no-sew (yes, that's right, I said NO-SEW) project that many of you would love. As a bonus, it's also a recession friendly project because each garland cost me around $5. And that's something my wallet can get behind!

You Will Need
-scissors
-felt (go t JoAnn's and it's on sale this time of year in just about every color under the sun. Have them cut yardage for you. I bought 1/2 yard and it was perfect for my 2 garlands. Sure, you can go to the craft section and buy it in squares for 4/$1, but trust me when I tell you that you get more for your money when you have the yardage cut)
-glue gun
-narrow bias tape in your choice of color & length (in the sewing area, usually near the thread)

Directions
1) Cruise around online or in clip art for the perfect shape (pumpkin, crossbones, skull, bat, leaves, etc).

2) insert it into a word document in your desired size

3) print out the graphic, then cut it out.

4) trace onto your felt (tip: if using black felt, you will want to use a paint pen for your tracing)

5) cut out your shapes once stenciled onto the felt in the desired quantity (I just wing the quantity. If I need more, I cut more, if I need less, then well, I just throw the left-over away).

6) Meanwhile, heat up your glue gun so it's nice and hot.

7) Lay out your bias tape and decide how you want to make your garland look. I did two looks: 1 look my bats are overlapping and I actually didn't use any bias tape, but for my skull & crossbones, I used the bias tape so I wouldn't have to cut out as many shapes (only because that one had to be really long for my entire entry way banister).

8) Once you have your garland laid out how you want, glue in the appropriate spots, and you're done.

Here are what my end results look like...
(sorry for the terrible cell phone pictures, but honestly, I was too lazy to drag out my camera)

Skull & crossbones down the front stairway

Spooky bats draped across the family room mantle.

Love!

2009-10-15T08:11:00.002-04:00

Pumpkin Carving with Preppy Puppy

2009-10-12T07:54:00.004-04:00

On Friday I chaperoned mini #2's kindergarten field trip to the pumpkin patch. It's my favorite field trip because 1) this is my most favorite time of year and 2) it's the field trip where you get to spend the most amount of time with your child (and let's face it, if I'm going to ride the bus all the way to the pumpkin patch w/ a bunch of kindergartner's, I'd damn well better get to spend some quality time with my kid when I get off that bus). We always go to the pumpkin patch as a family so we will definitely be heading back in the next week or two, but it did get me motivated to start digging around online for some great pumpkin carving ideas for this year.

If you've been hanging around here since the conception of Monogram Momma's, you will likely remember these pumpkins (scroll down to the bottom to see mine). To date, they are still my favorite. However, this year I will be carving my pumpkin in the likeness of preppy puppy. Can you even stand it?!?!?!

Want to do your own?
Grab your free pumpkin carving stencil of your favorite breed here.

source & photo: BGH

Leaf Garland

2009-10-06T07:34:00.005-04:00

Last week I made a great bunting out of felt for our Auburn tailgating. It turned out so cute, that I decided to do a Fall/Halloween one. I'll get to that later though, because while I was browsing my Google Reader, one of my favorite blogs had a similar project for a leaf garland that I thought many of you would like because it is done in paper, not felt.

You Will Need
-a real leaf from outside or faux leaf
-long strip of brown paper (or wrapping paper would work, too)
-pencil
-scissors

Directions
1) cut a long strip of paper the same width, then fold it accordion style until you end up with a 3x3 inch square.

2) arrange the leaf so that part of the leaf extends just slightly beyond the borders of the paper on two opposite folded sides (this is what will make it stay together as one long chain, like paper dolls).
3) Trace the leaf then cut. Be careful not to cut through the fold (see arrows). She angled her leaf slightly rather than tracing it straight up and down and I personally think it looks cuter that way.

4) Pull apart your leaves and VOILA! You've made your fall leaf paper garland!

source & photos: Hope Studios

Images for a Cure

2009-10-01T07:28:00.004-04:00

As most of us know, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Most of us have unfortunately been touched by breast cancer in one way or another through either our own experiences, or friends or family members around us. As a woman alone, this cause is important to me, but even more so this year since I have an old friend who was diagnosed with breast cancer in the spring. She is my age, has two young children (2.5 and 3.5), and is in fantastic health otherwise. It just doesn't make sense, does it?

This year my cousin Maria, of Charlotte Carey Photography on Nantucket, is offering a photography session for up to 2 children and 2 pets on October 11th on Nantucket. 100% of proceeds from this shoot will be donated to breast cancer research. Contact Maria for full details and to schedule your on location shoot! First come, first serve so hurry! Get those Holiday photo's done early and make it all for a good cause.

image: Charlotte Carey Photography

Rewind: Tailgate Entertaining by Southern Standards

2009-09-29T09:33:00.005-04:00

This weekend is the Auburn vs UT game and as Auburn Alums, Mr. M and I are beyond psyched that the game is being played in Knoxville this year. WooHOO!!! We've got amazing tickets on the 40 yard line, 50 rows up from the the field so we will be in rare form in our orange and navy, Auburn shakers, and Beam & cokes in hand.

Naturally, this means I am in full-on tailgating mode. What to wear, what to cook, what to pack, and will we even be able to utter a complete sentence after 7 hours of tailgating before out 8pm game? [Answer: Probably Not]

So, in honor of all the SEC excitement in our house this week, I thought it timely to do a Rewind of my post from September 27th, 2006. Enjoy and WAR EAGLE!!

Tailgate Entertaining by Southern Standards

I am fortunate enough to have attended a big SEC college. Trust me when I tell you, this is truly and experience like no other. And in the south, the most important and highly anticipated event for our colleges in the SEC, is college game day. And what defines our college game days at our colleges and makes them like no other game days in the country, is our tailgating. You see, tailgating in the south isn’t just a mere tradition. Oh no, no, no, my friends. It isn’t something we do to pass time before the game begins (you see the game is actually quite often the afterthought). It’s a gift that we pass down from one generation to another. Its social fanfare at it’s finest. It’s the epitome of southern hospitality showcased by good graces, good manners, good southern bar-b-que, and greeting strangers not with a “hello!” but with your school’s battle cry. I mean, don’t dare approach Mr. Monogram or I on a game day with a “Hi there!” as you’re going to receive back a “War Eagle” instead from us. Just like the UGA fans shout out “Go Dawgs” or the Alabama fans shake hands with a firm “Roll Tide” as a prelude to catching up on the latest news. This is just the way it is, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

In college, game days meant getting dressed up in Sunday dress in hose and high heels (or at the very least, a cute little stacked loafer and a pair of tights and skirt, and I mean at the very least), and always wearing your sorority pin. Lord help the girl who went to the game on the arm of her date without her pin, I tell you! And as for the boys, well they always wore their standard uniform of khaki pants, loafers, a white button down, a tie with our school colors, and of course, fraternity pin as well. Although as I side note, I must mention that under these cute outfits, double –bagged zip lock bags of our faithful friend, Mr. Jim Beam, was always tucked and hidden somewhere in our undergarments (I recommend the bra, honestly). And yes, as briefly mentioned, you always go with a date, who will pick you up at your dorm at 9am to start tailgating for a 1pm game. I know many of you are sitting there thinking this is ridiculous and that this can not possibly still happen. But it does! And if you don’t believe me then I encourage you to turn on the next ESPN game day at an SEC school and look real closely and take good notes as the camera spans the crowd. You see this isn’t the way it used to be; this is the way it STILL is and always will be. Southern tradition at it’s finest.

So for those of you who went to one of our fine southern institutions, you are likely shaking your head with a smile on your face, re-living your own fond memories of dressing up for football games and waiting with giddy anticipation for your date to come pick you up, and of course, wondering what you’ll wear to the band party later. But for those of you who are reading this as if I’m speaking some foreign language, you might still be wondering what in the world makes our tailgating so spectacular. Well, where do I even begin?

First of all, what other colleges consider early tailgating (Friday or even Thursday), at my Alma Mater (Auburn University) and a few of the other big SEC colleges (i.e. Georgia, Alabama, LSU), it starts at 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday before the game, when the massive caravan of RV's pull into our quiet little town on the plains (by massive I literally mean hundreds). And I’m not just talking your every day, run of the mill RV’s either. I am talking million dollar, fully outfitted, top dollar luxury RV’s that most of these people own SOLELY for tailgating and entertaining purposes. And I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the professional grade big black bar-b-que pits that many of them tote behind them as well. Because, you see, tailgating is an open door policy of booze and food and football and music. The food, if not authentic southern bar-b-que with all the fixings (or “finxin’s” as you will often hear it pronounced), is also often times catered. Sort of a come one, come all! But really I’m getting off the subject as I have heard from a few of you from various parts of the country who want some suggestions on jazzing up your own tailgating.
Now, if you don’t happen to have a million dollar RV at your disposal, then you will no doubt be either walking around, drink in hand to enjoy everyone else’s’ Southern Hospitality, or you will be throwing a bit of your own tailgating party right at home. And while I do not throw a football party with football shaped bowls and dishes and banners, I tend to use the colors as my theme. Or, pick a meal to be my theme. For instance, when Mr. Monogram and I were planning our Fall tailgating party (which we’ve since had to cancel due to scheduling conflicts), my theme was Ears & Beers, Chili & Cheer.
The invitations were very simple with my theme stated as shown in a really cool font and work layout, then followed by all the pertinent information such as time, date, location, etc.. Now, just for fun, at the bottom of my invitation it had read, Attire: Traditional Preppy Southern Sorority/Fraternity Game Day attire Requested, Greek pin optional! Cute, right? Mr. Monogram and I were going to break out our fraternity and sorority pins to wear with our cute little preppy college game day attire, and we were going to do a huge projection screen in the back yard and project the game from a projector. The lawn would be covered in quilts, scattered with pillows and chairs and even some large hay bales for sitting on, and the back deck would be set up for our plentiful buffet. The buffet would consist of mounds of corn of the cob, a half dozen different types and flavor of butter for the corn, and we would have our huge deep turkey fryer filled to the brim, cooking my chili over the burner. All the chili fixings (er, sorry, I mean finxin’s) and side dishes would also be laid out on the table in pretty bowls and different height levels, on top of quilts or table linens to match my team’s colors.

Now, if you are tailgating on campus, then these same entertaining ideas can still apply and it will be a tremendous treat for your tailgating companions and guests. You can even go to Kinko’s and have a banner made for your tailgate location with your party theme on it, to tie in with your invitations. Go to your local fabric store and pick up cute patterns and plaids and solids in your school colors and drape your tables with them to create interest. Whether you tailgate on campus or tailgate in the back yard or front porch, it shouldn’t mean skimping on your entertaining. There is no skimping at monogram mommas! It’s Fall! And what have we started talking about? Pumpkins! That’s right! So incorporate your pumpkins into your fall tailgating. Make a topiary like I showed on Tuesday, but use florals with your school colors instead of fall colors, and try putting your school logo on the top topiary pumpkin, and there’s your centerpiece. Again, instead of monogramming your pumpkins, incorporate your school spirit and school colors into them and onto your tailgating tables. Heck you can even cut off the top of a few synthetic pumpkins and drop a clear or white bowl into them (to make it look super cute, use different size pumpkins so it will also appear like you have different heights on your table) and they instantly become cute and decorative dishes to hold dips and side dishes.

Now, let’s talk about drinks. Now you know I insist on using your monogrammed galvanized drink tub, or even doing another one still with your monogram, but with your school colors. Naturally, beer is a staple for every tailgater, but that means a koozie is too. So bring along or have on hand cute colorful kozzies so your guests can cover up those unsightly beer bottles which you can literally pick up at your local craft store for about 50 cents each in an array of solid colors, and then I would also have some plastic stadium cups printed up with my theme and date on them. I like these from Shindigz and they have a great price too that you can’t beat. Of course, these cups are most helpful for mixed drinks, which in the South, this means two ingredients: Jim Beam and Coke. This is like our game day fuel and is a strict requirement along with the music selection of the Allman Brothers and Lynard Skynard.

As a final parting note, I leave you with these final parting words, sent to me in a timely email that does a good job of summing up College Football and Tailgating in the South. So grab your beam and coke, give it a good stir, and for those of you who are planning a football trip South, here are a few helpful hints that were sent to me, and do a good job summing up our fine tradition and staple of SEC Football.

Tailgating:
NORTH: Raw meat on a grill, beer with lime in it, listening to local radio station with truck tailgate down.
SOUTH: 30-foot custom pig-shaped smoker fires up at dawn. Cooking accompanied by live performance
by "Dave Matthews' Band," who comes over during breaks and ask for a hit off bottle of bourbon.

Women's Accessories:
NORTH: Chap Stick in back pocket and a $20 bill in the front pocket.
SOUTH: Louis Vuitton duffel with two lipsticks, waterproof mascara, and a fifth of bourbon.
Money not necessary - that's what dates are for.

Stadium Size:
NORTH: College football stadiums hold 20,000 people.
SOUTH: High school football stadiums hold 20,000 people.

Fathers:
NORTH: Expect their daughters to understand Sylvia Plath.
SOUTH: Expect their daughters to understand pass interference.

Campus Decor:
NORTH: Statues of founding fathers.
SOUTH: Statues of Heisman trophy winners.

Homecoming Queen:
NORTH: Also a physics major.
SOUTH: Also Miss America .

Heroes:
NORTH: Rudy Giuliani
SOUTH: Archie & Peyton & Eli Manning

Getting Tickets:
NORTH: 5 days before the game you walk into the ticket office on campus.
SOUTH: 5 months before the game you walk into the ticket office on campus, make a
large financial contr ibution and put name on awaiting list for tickets.

Friday Classes After a Thursday Night Game:
NORTH: Students and teachers not sure they're going to the game, because
they have classes on Friday.
SOUTH: Teachers cancel Friday classes because they don't want to see the
few hung over students that might actually make it to class.

Parking:
NORTH: An hour before game time, the University opens the campus for game parking.
SOUTH: RVs sporting their school flags begin arriving on Wednesday for the weekend
festivities. The really faithful arrive on Tuesday.

Game Day:
NORTH: A few students party in the dorm and watch ESPN on TV.
SOUTH: Every student wakes up, has a beer for breakfast, and Rushes over
to where ESPN is broadcasting "Game Day Live" to get on camera and wave to
the idiots up north who wonder why "Game Day Live" is never Broadcast from their campus.

Getting to the Stadium:
NORTH: You ask "Where's the stadium?" When you find it, you walk right in.
SOUTH: When you're near it, you'll hear it. On game day it becomes the state's third largest city.

Concessions:
NORTH: Drinks served in a paper cup, filled to the top with soda.
SOUTH: Drinks served in a plastic cup, with the home team's mascot on
it, filled less than half way with soda, to ensure enough room for bourbon.

When National Anthem is Played:
NORTH : Stands are less than half full, and less than half of them stand up.
SOUTH: 100,000 fans, all standing, sing along in perfect four-part harmony.

The Smell in the Air After the First Score:
NORTH: Nothing changes.
SOUTH: Fireworks, with a touch of bourbon.

Commentary (Male):
NORTH: "Nice play."
SOUTH: "Dammit, you slow sumbitch - tackle him and break his legs."

Commentary (Female):
NORTH: "My, this certainly is a violent sport."
SOUTH: "Dammit, you slow sumbitch - tackle him and break his legs."

Announcers:
NORTH: Neutral and paid.
SOUTH: Announcer harmonizes with the crowd in the fight song, with a tear in his eye because he is so proud of his team.

After the Game:
NORTH: The stadium is empty way before the game ends.
SOUTH: Another rack of ribs goes on the smoker, while somebody goes to the nearest package store for more bourbon, and planning begins for next week's game.

Calgon, Take Me Away

2009-09-24T14:25:00.003-04:00

Just in case ya'll think I'm sitting around eating Bon-Bon's and watching Y&R (which, don't get me wrong, I SO WISH I were doing) instead of paying attention to my blog,rest assured I'm not. It would appear that I've completely over-committed myself in anticipation of having an empty house this year with both of the mini monograms in school, and now I'm pretty much just treading water.

So here's what I've got going on...

-New Fundraising Chair at the boys school
-Opening up an online Storefront for the boys school spirit wear
-Cafeteria Volunteer once a month
-Box Tops Commitee
-Homeroom mom to mini #1
-Assistant Homeroom mom to mini #2
-Book Club (my friend has wonderfully agreed to take over organizing this for me, though)
-2nd Grade Mom's Night Out Organizer
-Football for mini #1 (which is 3 nights a week plus weekends)
-Baseball for mini #2 (which is 2 nights a week plus some weekends)
-Running my Paper Concierge business
-Working on new designs and filling orders for my SWAG shop

oh, and lets not forget this much ignored blog and twitter. Throw them on this list too, because hell, why not? Then there's always the day to day housekeeping, laundry, cooking, homework, and schlepping around as well.

So today, I just could use a loooooooooong bath. But you know what? I'm not gonna get it.
Oh well, maybe tomorrow.

Homemade Flour Tortilla's

2009-09-22T10:09:00.005-04:00

We used to have a restaurant chain in Atlanta called Rio Bravo Cantina. I know they made their way around certain parts of the country, but they were based out of Atlanta and what they were known for was their flour tortilla's. Soft, thick, and even a little gooey in some parts, Rio Bravo's flour tortilla's were tiny bits of Tex-Mex heaven on earth. Truly, nothing could get your salivary glands going like the smell of those tortilla's coming off the machine they used. So when Rio Bravo went out of business many years ago, Atlantan's everywhere mourned the loss of that delicious indulgence. I assure you, many a Weight Watchers diets were ruined over Rio Bravo's Queso served with piping hot tortilla's. Naturally, MM would have a suitable alternative, no?

You Will Need
4 cups all purpose flour
1/8 tsp baking powder
1/2 cup vegetable shortening
1 1/2 tsp sea salt
1 cup warm water

Instructions
1) Mix flour and baking powder together in a bowl

2) Add the vegetable shortening and mix it in with your hands until you get a coarse meal consistency.

3) Dissolve the sea salt into the water.

4) Drizzle the salt water mixture into the flour and mix with your hands into a soft dough. Add more warm water if it's not coming together.

5) Form the dough into a ball, put it in a bowl and cover for 20 minutes.

6) Break the dough ball into twelve pieces. Put a little bit of shortening on your hands and roll them into balls.

7) Flatten each ball out into a tortilla. Put flour on the surface before rolling them out. Get them as thin as possible. *TIP* Rio Bravo's tortilla's were on the thicker side, so I prefer not to roll mine out too thin, so I get that soft chewy consistency.)

8) Preheat a pan on medium heat. *TIP* A cast iron skillett works best for making tortilla's

9) Lay the tortilla on the pan and flip after 15-20 seconds. Bubbling is normal.

Tortillas Recipe

source: wikiHow

Paper Globes

2009-09-15T08:16:00.006-04:00

Everyone loves paper globes. Chances are, even if you have no occasion to decorate with paper globes, you still envy them and their fun, cheeky, and modern look.
Case and point: Here is a gorgeous display of paper globes that was done at my BFF's rehearsal dinner in August. Her MIL owns B.D. Jeffries in Atlanta, so her store designer drove up a U-Haul full of furniture, lighting, linens, etc., and amazing job decorating the restaurant and you can see how the abundance of paper globes really set the mood (and yes, I KNOW I am long overdue posting about this wedding!).

Of course, who doesn't love Lilly's Party Pom Pom's which came out last Spring? They've been a HUGE hit! Perfect for an indoor or outdoor party, or even a little girl's bedroom or fun for the playroom.

So let's get to it! Let's create our own paper globes! There are a few different versions of paper globes, and I'll go over other types as well b/c they are completely different from the one's I'm going to share today. Non-crafters need not run away scared from this one either! If you can cut a straight line and use a hole puncher, you are good to go. Cross my heart.

You Will Need
-Patterned papers cut into 8-1/2 x1/2" strips
-Brads (2 per globe)
-small hole punch

Instructions

1) Start with three strips of paper

2) Stack the paper pieces and wrap into a circle, overlapping about 1/2"

3) Punch a hole where the ends overlap , and then another hole
directly opposite the first hole. Put brads into both holes.

4) Lastly, fan out the paper pieces and VOILA!
You have a cute paper globe!

I love these for festive decorating. Just think how cute they would be hanging over your breakfast table in Halloween papers for Halloween? Or make them with papers which coordinate with your nest party and just have fun putting them here and there. Fill a bowl with them, and use for a fun, inexpensive table centerpiece. Since this is simple enough that kids can even help with, I'm going to make these into Christmas ornaments for the mini's tree in the playroom (we only decorate this tree with ornaments we've made and we make new ornaments every year together to add to their playroom tree). Also, for a fun little variation, try cutting your strips of paper with scissors that have a decorative edge (try scalloped!).

source & photo's: Schlosser Designs

8 Years

2009-09-11T07:30:00.003-04:00

Down for the Count

2009-09-10T07:35:00.003-04:00

Yesterday was a crazy day, and by the time we made it to football practice, I was feeling pretty run down. As it turns out, I'm sick. With the flu. I think, anyway. All I know is I woke up this morning with all the flu symptoms, so with the boys off to school I am taking my sweaty, feverish self back to bed with some Gatorade, a bucket, and preppy puppy. I have approximately 8 hours to recover from this so wish me luck. Oh, and while you're at it, please throw a penny in the fountain for me and wish it's at least not the flu of the swine variety. Ugh.

In the meantime, to make this visit to MM worth your while, a little something from my fabulous friend, Alyssa of A. Tierney...

The Twitter 500

2009-09-08T09:39:00.005-04:00

If you follow me on Twitter or are friends with me on Facebook, you will already know that preppy puppy became very ill last week. As in life threatening ill. It was very sudden, very scary, and she was hospitalized in critical care (who knew there was canine critical care?) last Wednesday night through Saturday afternoon. I will spare you all the gory details-and trust me, they are GORY- but she is now home and resting. Her road to recovery will be a bit slow and with 8 pills a day that need to be given during various times and a special diet, I think it's fair to say I will be sticking close to home this week. Every day she seems to be doing better though and we are all so happy to have her home where she belongs. And speaking of now having her home, don't be at all surprised if you see preppy puppy and I sitting on the curb of a busy intersection with a sign that reads "RECOVERING SICK FAMILY DOG. DONATIONS WELCOME!" as the vet bill was so astronomical that Mr. M. grabbed his chest and gasped for air when he saw it (and I need him to not have a heart attack so you know, he can pay that bill and all).

Now, tomorrow I'll be back with a crafty Martha-esque project, but in the meantime, if you don't follow me on twitter, CLICK HERE. Why, you ask? I'm pretty close to 500 followers and once I reach 500 I will do a great giveaway on my blog, RIGHT HERE at Monogram Momma's, of one of my many fabulous new products on Paper Concierge. And let me just tell you, I'm now carrying Dabney Lee, Fontaine Maury, Demby+Solomon, & Bonnie Marcus and MANY MORE top notch lines! So tweet it up, share it, blog it, whatever. But right around the corner there is a great giveaway coming but the magic number is 500!

Awkward Family Photos

2009-09-03T10:14:00.004-04:00

We've all got them and we've all seen them. Awkward family photos. But now there is a website dedicated to them that is just too stinkin' funny not to share! Go check them out but be prepared to laugh your ass off!

It's so great everybody could make it to graduation.

Finally, a photo of girls in prom dresses holding chickens that makes total sense.

source: Awkward Family Photos

Two Things

2009-08-31T16:45:00.004-04:00

Last week I was pretty down in the dumps about my little guy being in kindergarten and not needing his mommy anymore. Okay, so maybe that's a stretch. He does need me, but it sure as hell feels like he needs me a lot less today than he did 2 weeks ago before he started kindergarten.

But something good happened today. I realized 2 very important things I get to do now that I'm home by myself all day.

1) Listen to whatever I want to in my car on XM or my iPod AS LOUD AS I WANT without anyone yelling "MOMMY IT'S SOO LOUD YOU CAN'T HEAR ME TALKING!"

2) Drive around with all the windows down and sunroof open without anyone telling me "MOMMY IT'S TOO WINDY IT'S BLOWING MY HAIR AROUND!"

So there you have it.

Rosette T-Shirt Tutorial

2009-08-28T11:32:00.005-04:00

Last week my painted Dr. Scholl's were featured on one of my favorite blogs, Tip Junkie. Along with my shoes, there was the MOST fab t-shirt which was a copycat of a popular J. Crew tee, which I have been just itching to share with you guys. It's soooo cute, and even you non-sewers take heart, because you can do this one too!!

The Inspiration (by J. Crew)

You Will Need
-2 inexpensive tee's the same color (check out Walmart for under $5 ea!!)
-scissors
-a coke can to trace (circle shape/size)
-needle& thread

Instructions
1)First of all, take one of your t-shirts, and cut 3 circles of different sizes from the fabric (the largest being the size of the diameter of the coke can). The circles don't have to be perfect so it's okay to just eyeball it.

2) layer the circles one on top of the other w/ the largest circle being on bottom.

3) Next, using your needle & thread, pinch the flower from inside the t-shirt and begin to stitch it in place. You need to create lots of fluff and make it really bunchy when sewing on the flowers, and you do this by pinching layers, & picking up folds & layers with the needle and thread.

4) Pack those rosettes in together really well, lifting the edges and bunching the flowers close together. These ladies used 7 rosettes for their tee's.

The Imitation (finished product!)

source & photos: Hope Studios

Empty Nest

2009-08-26T11:38:00.004-04:00

Remember when I was excited both boys were going to be in school together, every day? Gone, out of my house from 7:30a.m. -3:30 p.m.?

Well, today I realized I'm maybe not okay with that.

Today I realized that, while I've got a list of all these things I both need and want to do on my gigantic never-ending monogrammed note pad, I can't figure out where to start.

Today I realized that I feel lost and don't really know how to start my day once the boys are gone, because I'm not used to them both being gone at the same time.

Today I realized that I miss my little guy.

And today I realized that I'm sad when I should really be very happy and proud.

Now What?

2009-08-24T09:28:00.004-04:00

Last Thursday marked our first day of 2nd grade and kindergarten respectively. What a BIG YEAR this is going to be what with mini #2 being the big boy kindergartner and mini #1 celebrating his First Holy Communion in the Spring. I can't help but sit here in my very quiet house wondering how did we get to this point so quickly and most of all, now what?

Mr. Monogram: well, you've got the whole house to yourself now every day. The boys don't get out of school until 3 o'clock. What are you going to do all day?

MM: Whatever the hell I want, that's what.

Case in point, it's nearing 10 a.m. and I'm still in my pajama's. All kidding aside though, my list of things to keep me busy is very long. Since the boys were home with me all summer long (which I really deserve a freaking medal for, btw), I've gotten a *tad* behind on the laundry. And Cleaning. And organizing. And packing. Yes, packing. Because did I tell you are moving? Once we can get this little "to-do" list sorted out and I can get some of these overstuffed closets packed up into boxes ~~because I'm a pack rat who can't seem to throw anything away, not even a magazine from 1996,~~ the house is going on the market. We've found a lot we love and really want to build a custom home but we're in no rush ~~because my husbands industry sucks BIG TIME right now~~ so we're taking our time.

Anyway, I've made myself a short-list of little projects I both need and want to accomplish before the sign goes in the yard, and like it or not, I'll be sharing these with you.

-Make new window treatment for Master Bedroom
-Make new window treatments for Master Bathroom
-I have a great idea for a big art project on canvas
-Make new desk skirt to match new drapes in Office
-Make cute slipcover for my office desk chair

So I'm thinking I won't have any trouble keeping busy.

Back to School Steals & Deals

2009-08-19T11:47:00.013-04:00

It's the MOST Wonderful Time of the YEAR!
And no, I'm not talking about Christmas, I'm talking about the start of school! Every mom I know will be doing a jig in the drop-off line tomorrow and this mom will be joining in as well. So to celebrate, we at Paper Concierge are offering THREE fantastic discounts and showcasing our brand new products which we know you will do your own little jig for. After all, now that you know your kids teachers, it's never too early to start thinking Holiday teachers gifts! Remember what they say... the early bird get's the worm (or discount, in this case)!

Sweet Pea Designs: Twice as Nice Sale! Back by popular demand! Order 25 or more notes, folded notes, enclosures, bag tags, & bookmarks and we'll DOUBLE YOUR ORDER for FREE! Enter "twice as nice" in special notes field.

Embossed Graphics: Embossed Stationery Sale! Now through August 31st, take $10 OFF our embossed flat or folded notes which are at an already low price starting at $29.95 for sets of 50 cards with matching envelopes! Use code "embossed" at checkout.

Mom Agenda: All-in-One Sale! Use coupon code "PINK" to get $10 OFF the MomAgenda All-in-One organizer in fuchsia only.

HOT NEW PRODUCTS!!
We are adding new products DAILY that you don't want to miss! Our new eco-friendly, lined, and extremely durable and fashionable Emilie Sloan bags were one of the hottest items at the New York show! Fabulous new magnetic memo boards, new notepad designs, and Bonnie Marcus are just a few of our many new items you've just got to see!

New Duds: Castaway Clothing

2009-08-17T08:38:00.005-04:00

{Which could also be titled The One Where I Finally Post Pictures of the Mini Monograms}

As ya'll know, I am quite picky about the clothes the Mini Monograms wear. Yes, they've got a few things to bum around in that they are very rarely seen in public in (save for baseball or football practice), but overall, they are typically dressed in cute clothes 95% of the time. Nothing gets my goose more than to see kids who wear nothing but cartoon graphic tee's everywhere they go. I can't explain it, I guess it's just how I was raised.

Two weeks ago they each got a new pair of Jetties Shorts from Castaway Clothing and I've been dying to show them to you. For those of you who have been around here for a while, you'll remember that Castaway has been on my radar for quite a few years, and I know ya'll would adore their stuff. Anyway, these are the most fabulous shorts, I kid you not. Not only are they beyond adorable, but the fabric is light-weight and comfortable (not a heavy cotton duck like most embroidered wear) and extremely well constructed. You know I know my sewing and these shorts are super high quality. They run true to size and also have the ever important adjustable waistband (thank you Matt, for thinking of us mom's with growing kids!).

So how cute are these shorts? Well on Friday the boys and I were running errands around town and they were in their Jetties Shorts. We stopped at the park down the street from our house and our local Channel 10 news crew was there doing a special interest piece. When they were done, their videographer and anchor came up to tell me how much they loved the boys shorts and wanted to know all about Castaway. NO LIE! It was so fun, and all day the boys kept arguing over whose shorts were "cooler." So yes, it seems I've created my own little mini clothes hounds.

Become a Castaway Facebook Fan!

Boat Drinks

2009-08-14T20:13:00.003-04:00

We are packing up and heading out to the lake with some friends for our last horrah with all the kids before school starts back next Thursday. Fingers crossed we'll have great weather!

All the food has already been prepared and packed up by one of the families coming along, so all the rest of us have to do is bring our kids, our stuff, and drinks for our families. Mr. Monogram and I have packed all the necessities we need to enjoy Arnold Palmer's all weekend (a preppy classic, as you know), and alcoholic Arnold Palmer's mean 3 things: Firefly Sweet Tea Vodka, Lemonade, and lots of ice. Oops! Can't forget my Tervis Tumblers!

Have a great weekend, everyone and I'll see you on Monday when I'll have a NOT TO BE MISSED product review for you by none other than the Mini Monograms.

Wednesday Wisdom

2009-08-12T10:12:00.003-04:00

I follow Reverend Run on Twitter, and this morning his tweet really resonated with me. It's something a few friends and I have been chatting a lot about lately, and something I find especially poignant for a Wednesday.

Be kind to people and humble!
U'll never get knocked off ur pedestal if u dont climb up on one...
Let go dat ego.. :-)

And there you go. Be humble. I couldn't have said it better myself.

I Lied...

2009-08-11T10:04:00.004-04:00

So I lied... I am still waiting for some of the actual wedding pictures from friends who weren't in the wedding, so I won't be posting a wedding re-cap today. I have mine from the bridesmaids luncheon and rehearsal dinner, but I'm hoping to get a few from the wedding today.

In the meantime, I just had to post these paw-sitively posh houses that any preppy puppy would love to have. Could you just imagine? I love preppy puppy but this is going a bit overboard!

The Worlds Most Expensive Dog House
Among many other amenities, this dog house has sheepskin-lined, temperature-controlled beds, a $250,000 sound system, and a 52-inch plasma TV. Automatic dispensers ensure the dogs, who each have their own bedroom, will always have chilled, filtered water and dry food available.

Paris Hilton's Dogs House
This two-story mini-mansion was constructed to resemble Hilton's own California home. It features a balcony, miniature Phillipe Starck furniture, a black crystal chandelier, black ceiling moldings, and a heater and air conditioner. The first floor is the living room, while the upstairs contains a closet and bedroom.

Cave Dogs
Made of TerrierRock—faux stone made of reinforced papier mache—the caves have a durable four-layer wall construction that helps keep a dog warm and dampens sound. Each has a hand-dressed arch created from wood salvaged on western Vancouver Island and is stamped with a paw print from Scottie, the company's canine president.

Fit for a Khan
Inspired by tents used by Genghis Kahn and his Mongolian officers and measuring 22 inches wide by 25 inches deep by 30 inches high, it is topped with a gold finial and ostrich plumes, designating royalty or high rank.

Rex-Mex

This pricey hacienda was built for model, actress, and reality TV host Rachel Hunter's pooch. A similar model can be custom built with amenities including terra cotta floors, running water, lighting, air conditioning, and heat. It can also be made large enough for children and dogs to play in together.

First Green Dog

The doghouse is modeled on Greek Revival architecture, the perfect complement to the White House, and is constructed of wood from Tennessee aromatic cedar trees that were planted by President Andrew Jackson along the driveway of his estate, The Hermitage, and were felled by a tornado year later. It has a green roof and is coated in zero-VOC paint. It will be presented to the Obamas

source: This Old House

Two Words..

2009-08-10T12:51:00.003-04:00

A-MAZING. The wedding was phenomenal and my bff couldn't have looked more gorgeous or happy. No time to post pictures today, but I promise to share tomorrow!

xo-MM

Wedding Weekend in the Mountains

2009-08-05T09:43:00.004-04:00

This weekend my bff since childhood is getting married. I'm beyond thrilled for her! She is marrying a great guy who went to one of our rival prep school's and was actually bff's with a guy I dated in high school. Crazy how small the world is, right?
On Friday we are hosting the Bridesmaids Luncheon at The Inn at Millstone where we will be dining outside on the lawn.
Friday evening, the Rehearsal Dinner will be at The Library Club Restaurant, the oldest structure in Sapphire Valley.

On Saturday, the wedding is being held at The Chattooga Club which will be amazing with the gorgeous mountain backdrop.
And here is the Bridesmaids dress that I will be wearing (ugly orange backdrop not included!). The apple green is a gorgeous color in person, and the dress is super comfortable and light. Perfect for dancing!

Sunday morning Mr. Monogram and I will have to get up early and head back to TN as his dad and step-mother will have to fly back to FL after taking care of the mini's for us while we are at the wedding. But we do have a little bit of down time. If anyone is familiar with the Highlands, Cashiers, Sapphire Valley area and there are any shops or sights I simply must see, let me know!

Nutter-Butter Banana Pudding Trifle

2009-08-03T08:38:00.004-04:00

Last night we were invited to some friends for dinner. We had the most delicious prime cut fillet's that were so delicious that even the kids were asking for seconds! Our hostess, Ann, had asked me to bring the dessert and I knew just what to bring. My Nutter-Butter Banana Pudding Trifle that is a HUGE hit. We ended the evening much later than we planned after a couple rounds of UNO with the kids where Mr. Monogram was the big winner. What a great evening!

Source: Southern Living

Ingredients

3 cups milk
3 large eggs
3/4 cup sugar
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons butter
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
5 medium-size ripe bananas
1 (1-lb.) package peanut butter sandwich cookies
2 cups sweetened whipped cream

Instructions

1. Whisk together first 4 ingredients in a large saucepan over medium-low heat. Cook, whisking constantly, 15 to 20 minutes or until thickened. Remove from heat; stir in butter and vanilla until butter is melted.

2. Fill a large bowl with ice. Place saucepan in ice, and let stand, stirring occasionally, 30 minutes or until mixture is thoroughly chilled.

3. Meanwhile, cut bananas into 1/4-inch slices. Break cookies into thirds.

4. Spoon half of pudding mixture into a 3-qt. bowl or pitcher. Top with bananas and cookies. Spoon remaining pudding mixture over bananas and cookies. Top with sweetened whipped cream. Cover and chill 2 to 24 hours. Garnish, if desired.

Note: For testing purposes only, we used Nabisco Nutter Butter® Sandwich Cookies. For photography, we divided mixture between 2 (1 1/2- to 2-qt.) wide-mouthed pitchers.

Shortcut Suggestions: Omit eggs, sugar, flour, and butter. Substitute thawed extra creamy whipped topping for sweetened whipped cream. Reduce vanilla to 1 tsp. Place 3 cups milk and vanilla in large bowl; add 2 (3.4-oz.) packages vanilla instant pudding mix. Beat with an electric mixer at medium speed 2 minutes or until thickened; let stand 5 minutes. Stir in 1 (8-oz.) container sour cream. Proceed with recipe as directed in Steps 2 through 4.

*Note* I actually double the pudding recipe b/c otherwise the layers are too thin. You can also throw in a dash of coconut rum (I like Coconut Cruzan) for a little extra flavor. The longer you refrigerate it, the better it is!

source: Southern Living

25% OFF TODAY!!

2009-08-02T16:17:00.003-04:00

If you followed me on Twitter you might know that I am having a sale for all my twitter followers.

So if you aren't following me on Twitter, sign up (it's free!), follow me, and check out my exclusive 25% off discount code for twitter followers only!

Oh, and that also includes all our FAB NEW PRODUCTS!!

P.S. Spread the word! Help me reach 500 followers and I'll do a great giveaway of one of our NEW products!

Today I'm a Professional Errand Runner

2009-07-29T09:35:00.002-04:00

Is it really only Wednesday? I hereby make a motion to go ahead and make it Friday. Anyone else?

This week the mini's and I had nothing on our typically active social calendars, which turns out it was a good thing because I ended up needing to help out a friend with her boys on Monday and Tuesday. It's funny. You think you're helping out a friend but she actually helped me out because she provided my boys with instant playmates for two days! Yay me! Seriously though, her boys are the same age as mine, very well behaved and as sweet as can be, and all four of them get along so incredibly well. It was a fun two days, however now the mini monograms are stuck with me and me alone again (which doesn't exactly excite them at this point of the summer).

So what's been going on around here? Last week we took care of all the uniform shopping and even bought their school shoes. That is a major task to check off my to-do list! So today we are running a million errands. I had to leave the uniforms to have our school emblem embroidered on everything so today we'll go pick those up, go pick up my bridesmaids dress for bff's wedding next weekened from the bridal shop, hit the bank, and make several returns.

Currently my home looks like a dress shop, as I've bought so many dresses for the bridesmaids luncheon. In the end, I think I've decided to just go with a simple but uber comfortable white v-neck sleeveless dress I nought last year that I love, and pair it with a great cardigan and strappy heels. Now all I have to do is find the great cardigan and strappy heels!

Castaway Clothing Giveaway!

2009-07-27T09:38:00.006-04:00

Two years ago I did this post, introducing you guys to Castaway Clothing. And while I was planning on doing a post just on their fantastic and easy-to-use new website this week, instead I am sharing a FAB Castaway Clothing giveaway over at my friend Kerry's blog. Go check it out and don't miss out! However, don't get your hopes up on winning because it's mine! ;-)

Click here to go enter the giveaway!!

TGIF

2009-07-24T10:40:00.004-04:00

I'm so glad it's Friday. You would *think* that being a SAHM means every day is like Friday, but no, I assure you it is not. I am dashing out the door with the mini monograms to take them to the gymnastics place to jump on trampolines and run around with some friends and expel some of this energy they've got. After that we'll head to a lunch date, then a swim date with some school friends who've been out of town. YAY sun!

Tonight is dinner with our TN bff's, the Hawks. It's always a good time and they are leaving next week for a 10 day trip to Washington DC, NYC, & Boston. Anyway, as I plan to jump on a trampoline or two myself this morning, I actually put on a cute pair of army green shorts (if you knew me INR I typically wear skirts or dresses every day), a basic white tee, simple off-white sailors knotted flip flops and a pink headband. However, I do wish I had this adorable nautical headband to throw on today!

Source: Ribbons & Lace on Etsy

2010 momAgenda's!

2009-07-23T10:40:00.009-04:00

Does 2010 scare you like it scares me? It's such a huge number! lololol

For any of you busy mom's out there who do not use momAgenda, all I can say is you are really missing out. MomAgenda is a fantastic product that's been seen on Oprah and the Today Show and truly is a must-have for busy mom's trying to keep track of family schedules, appointments, play dates, etc while still looking stylish. I was a big fan of momAgenda before I started repping them through PC so I speak from experience here.

The momAgenda books and calendars run from August '09 through December '10 and with August being but a week or so away, it's time to order. Pre-order your momAgenda by July 31st and I will give you $5 off the regular price. Use code MOMAGENDA10 at checkout.

Here's a low-down on the products, just in case you've got any questions.

momAgenda Desktop
As featured on the Today show and in Real Simple magazine! At last, a
comprehensive and stylish planner created by a mom exclusively for
moms. The distinguishing feature of this upscale planner is its custom
week-at-a-glance planning pages, featuring separate spaces for your
activities and those of your kids. Finally a useful tool to help
multi-tasking moms do it with ease!

Beautifully bound covers have a shantung finish that is both
fashionable and stain-resistant. Calendar is dated August 2009
through December 2010 for convenient school and year-long planning.

Size: 7" x 9" avail. in: Fuchsia, Azure, Lime, Chocolate

MomAgenda Mini

Introducing the day-on-a-page version of the popular momAgenda
planner! Featuring the NEW momEssentials pamphlet that can be re-used
from year to year, attached via ribbon on the back of the book.
Size: 5" x 7" avail. in: Fuchsia, Azure, Lime, Chocolate

All in One Portfolio
The All in One Portfolio features a monthly calendar that starts with
the new school year in August. Calendar runs 17 months, through Dec ‘10.
Calendars feature separate planning space for mom and up to four kids, plus
space notes and inspirational quotes. You’ll also receive a separate folio
section to store class lists, school schedules, sports schedules, menus and
more. 48 pages and 24 interchangeable tabs, there’s a place for everything!
You’ll also have a large notepad and pen for jotting down a note.
Size: 10" x 12" avail. in: Cherry, Blue

momAgenda Weekly Family Planner Pad
Same great format, now for the whole family! The momAgenda family
schedule pad features the unique momAgenda weekly format, with
separate spaces for each person in the family… whether you keep it on
the kitchen counter or on the fridge, the whole family will be more
organized! 9" x 12"

Nautical Knot Tying: Monkey's Fist

2009-07-21T16:59:00.007-04:00

Mr. Monogram grew up on the water and with his dad always owning a sailboat or sport fishing boat and his step-father owning a marina, it is fair to say he has been sailing since a very young age. He has taken me sailing in various parts of Florida, in Mexico, St. Lucia, and in the Mediterranean off the coast of Italy, and although I am not a big fan of boats, he is an excellent sailor (just don't tell him I admitted to that, mkay?). All this explains why he is great at all the fun yet confusing nautical knots that we all love so much.

Every summer I buy the mini's sailors bracelets from Nantucket Knotworks and swear I'm going to sit down a learn to do it myself but it never happens. It's sort of become one of our summer traditions, that the first day of their summer when school lets out, they each get their new bracelet for the summer. One of these days I really will sit down and learn how to do it, but before I show you how to do that, starting off with the classic Monkey's Fist Knot seems a little easier.

The Monkey's Fist Knot is sort of a roundish square knot that in it's large form, is tied around a heavy weighty object on the end of a heaving line to assist in docking a boat. But I've seen them in different sized used as bookends, door stoppers, and at Nantucket Knotworks, they even sell small ones as key chains which I love. And while they've got a convenient little kit for you to purchase, I'm going to show you a fantastic tutorial on how to do it yourself. I mean, I can already imagine these as great Christmas ornaments on mini #2's nautical themed tree in his bedroom, can't you?!

How to tie a monkey's fist - More DIY How To Projects

A. Tierney Summer Special

2009-07-15T11:09:00.003-04:00

As far as A. Tierney goes, I'm about as big of a fan as there could possibly be, as I've repeated this many times over in the past 3 years of blogging. You don't want to miss this HUGE deal!

I own this tote and LOVE it. It's very sturdy and ultra durable. You will not be disappointed in the quality, and that's a Monogram Momma promise! So what are you waiting for?

P.S. While you're at it, go enter to win a fabulous A. Tierney bangle at Coterie.

Make Your Own REAL Oilcloth

2009-07-13T11:02:00.003-04:00

I've mentioned here before that I love oilcloth. It's retro look and feet yet practical use makes in an invaluable fabric for any crafter or sewer alike. But have you ever wondered how to make oilcloth? Well, I have. And I'm going to share it with you. Why? Because our choices of fabric styles are limited with retail oilcloth, and now you can go out and either design your own oilcloth fabric, or purchase fabric and turn it into oilcloth yourself. And that makes your oilcloth possibilities limitless!

A little background These days, oilcloth is actually made with a petroleum based coating. But back in the old days of our grandmothers and their mothers before them, the real stuff was made from cotton duck, canvas or linen fabric that was coated several times with linseed oil to give it a waterproofish finish.

Aside from all the limitless design possibilities that go along with making your own oilcloth, genuine oilcloth as made here is actually biodegradable in a landfill and the retail oilcloth is not (because it's not actually "real" oilcloth). And that also makes this project GREEN for all you environmentally conscious crafters.

What You need

-Heavy cotton duck or canvas
-Wooden stretcher frame
-Staple Gun
-Linseed Oil and paintbrush
-Oil paint or oil dyes if you want to create your own design

Instructions

1. Stretch fabric onto frame for stability and smoothness

2. Create a design by tie dyeing, stamping or painting with oil dyes or paints

3. With long brush strokes, cover entire piece of fabric on the good side, let dry, repeat

4. Add design between coats of linseed oil and keep coating and letting it dry

5. Once it's good and coated, remove from frame, trim edges and use as desired

If you want to make an entirely water resisitant piece, make the item and dip it completely in linseed oil, let dry and repeat.

source: curbly.com

What I've Been Up To

2009-07-10T08:10:00.005-04:00

Forgive me for abandoning you these past 3 weeks. I've been doing a lot of this...

a little of this....

and then there was this...

which was followed up with this...

It's been a loooooong and exhausting three weeks with lots of travel for the Monograms, but we're back and the suitcases are unpacked. I'll pick back up with my regularly scheduled Monogram Momma programming on Monday.

Pinky swear.

Tie One On & Win Big!

2009-07-02T11:32:00.002-04:00

Vineyard Vines want's to see how you tie one on! You're VV tie, that is, and you could win $2000!

General Requirements for Entries:

Videos must be a minimum of 30 seconds in length and must not exceed 60 seconds. Preferred format is HD 720p 16x9.

The tie in the Video that you use to demonstrate MUST be vineyard vines.

Videos must not contain any copyrighted material (including copyrighted background music).

Videos should use the vineyard vines logo at least two (2) times in the duration of the video. One of those times should be the end title/frames of the video. You can choose from any of the logos provided on the CONTEST FILES link on this page.

Videos cannot contain any profanity, offensive language, nudity or otherwise objectionable material, including intoxication or public drunkenness, or any violation of law, the determination of which is solely at the discretion of vineyard vines.

Videos must be in the English language or subtitled.

Limit two (2) submissions per member, per phase.

By entering into this Contest you confirm receipt and acceptance of all terms and conditions of the Official Rules of this Contest including, but not limited to, Sections 5, LIMITATION OF LIABILITY AND RELEASE and Section 6, INDEMNIFICATION, and confirm that vineyard vines is deemed the "Sponsor" as provided in the Official Rules for this Contest.

What Can You win?

In the first phase five judges will pick their top five videos. The contest will begin June 30, 2009 and videos must be submitted by July 31, 2009. Winners will be announced August 7, 2009. Prizes 1-5: $1,000, $200, $150, $150 VV Gift Card, $150 VV Gift Card

In the second phase we are asking EVERYONE to go to Tongal and try to predict which videos the judges will select. The prediction contest will run from July 31, 2009 to August 7, 2009. Prizes 1-5: $500, $150, $150 VV Gift Card, $125 VV Gift Card, $125 VV Gift Card

Sit There Quietly Until You Can Be Nice

2009-06-18T10:31:00.006-04:00

WARNING: Mommy post straight ahead.

This morning got off to a rough start. As you know, the mini monograms are roughly a year and a half apart. In simple English, this means they are the best of friends and the worst of friends. They are oil & water, salt and pepper, complete opposites in every. single. way. One is a neat freak, one is a slob. And so on and so forth, you get what I'm saying.

Perhaps you've also heard the old saying "opposites attract?"

Well, apparently they woke up on the wrong sides of their beds this morning because they were arguing about every little nit-picky thing this morning and it wasn't even 7:45a.m. GAHHH! Calgon, take me away, already!! Clearly they did not read mommy's memo that it is Summer and she is allowed to have some extra beauty sleep. *sigh* Therefore, me trying to get them out the door and to VBS sounded something along this line (Vacation Bible School: something holy & sacred to Southern Mothers where, whatever your religious beliefs are, your children are welcome with wide open Protestant arms for a week of free-yes, FREE- childcare for approximately 3 hours a day. And this Catholic mom would be a damn fool not to partake in such a gift from God, right?):

Me: GET IN YOUR SEATS, BUCKLE UP, & LOOK OUT UR OWN WINDOW. DON'T EVEN LOOK OR SPEAK 2 EACH OTHER.

Along the way, after I tweeted this for all the world to share in my irritation this morning (I'm a giver like that, what can I say?), I received a few tweets back from other mom's who were in the same boat as I was this morning. Well, it is summertime, so let's face it, it's more like we're all on the same overcrowded, sinking ship. But regardless, one of my friends asked for pointers with her arguing boys and while I'm happy to share one of my favorite STOP ARGUING NOW OR I WILL START DRINKING AND IT'S TOO EARLY IN THE MORNING tips with you that I use on the mini's, keep in mind I am only speaking from my own experience here. Oh and also? Additional tips welcome.

Monogram Momma's Quick Trick to Stopping the [arguing] Insanity

1) When the mini's are consistently arguing and I've already separated them and sent them to their rooms and that still hasn't done the trick, I have them come stand face to face in front of me.

2) They have to wrap their arms around each other, then put their noses together, literally touching.

3) For 3 solid minutes, they BOTH have to repeat while noses are touching and arms are around each other, " I LOVE YOU I LOVE YOU I LOVE YOU I LOVE YOU..."

4) They are usually giggling before the 3 minutes are up, and believe it or not, for some reason I honestly can't explain, they are happy to run off and play nicely after that 3 minutes in each others face.

Try it, I promise it will work.

Old Friends & the Hope to Meet Some New Ones

2009-06-17T14:52:00.004-04:00

This week, bff Kristi and her daughter, Lydia came in town to stay with us for their annual visit. I love having them here and as always, the visit was much too brief. Kristi and I have always sort of completed each other for lack of better words, so even doing nothing together is always lots of fun.

Kristi (left) and I (right) at school, in, i *think* 10th grade here which would be circa 1991. Our Fall/Spring uniforms were so cute with seersucker skirts, white peter pan collared blouses, and navy vests w/ our school crest.

Anyhow, now I'm busy packing up for 9 days of visiting w/ my in-laws in Florida. Mr. Monogram and I have never in our entire 10-1/2 year marriage spent an entire week visiting his parents soooooo............

While I am down there I will be co-hosting a Paper Concierge Party on Monday evening the 22nd to help a new Concierge get her feet wet. So if any of my fabulous readers are in the Clearwater/St. Pete/Tampa area and want to come hang w/ Monogram Momma, share a beer or glass of wine *coughOrtwoOrThree* with her and chat up all things preppy, monogrammed and paper, drop me a comment w/ your email address or email me directly and I'll send you the details.

Speaking of Cupcakes...

2009-06-13T09:25:00.002-04:00

Mii Cupcakes

2009-06-12T09:19:00.003-04:00

I always try to make a fun cupcake to bring to school for the entire class when it's one of the mini's birthday's. And since the boys are really into the wii, *cougharen'tweall* I thought it would be fun to come up with a mii themed cupcake for mini #1's birthday in February.

In a perfect world, I would be talented enough to whip something like these together...

photo: Bakerella via Flickr

However, this is by no means a perfect world and as such, this was the best I was able to do. Cute, simple, and a HUUUUUUGE hit with the kids at school. To make it even more fun, I kept them a surprise and didn't even tell mini #1. I even did mii cupcakes for his teachers.

What You Need
-Your Favorite cupcake recipe
-Avery Label 5294, 2.5" round printer labels
-Toothpicks
-Sprinkles of your choice
-Computer
-Printer

Directions
1) Bake your cupcakes and let cool.

2) Meanwhile, go online to this site, and create a mii for each person you're making a cupcake for.

3) Either "Print Screen" and copy to Photoshop or Paint for each individual mii, or use a program like Jing (I recommend Jing) to save each mii you create.

4) Once you've created and saved a mii for each cupcake, open your word processing program with the layout for the Avery Label template, and insert each mii into two circles. The reason each mii needs to have 2 circles/labels is because you will need a front and back.

5) Print up your labels.

6) Your final step is sticking 2 labels together, back-to-back, with the toothpick in between so they are ready to be inserted into your cupcakes.

7) Ice and decorate your cupcakes, stick in your mii's and they are ready to go!

*NOTE* If you are doing a fair amount of cupcakes, then I suggest putting each person's name on the shirt of their mii. This can be done once you've inserted them into the label template, before printing up, but adding a text box and making the outline and filling invisible.

Blog Spotlight: Licked Toys Graveyard

2009-06-10T10:49:00.006-04:00

photo: lickedtoys.com

While I do realize this site sounds a little perverse, it's a must see for all my dog-loving friends. Citing itself as "the world's first dog toy graveyard (tm)," you will be howling with laughter when you see what some of these naughty canines have gotten themselves into. And oh, the look of shame on their faces!!

Book Club: The Last Lecture

2009-06-09T12:36:00.003-04:00

photo: Amazon.com

If you follow me on Twitter, you may or may not have read a tweet when I said I refused to read The Last Lecture. Well, I stood by that tweet and didn't read last month's book club pick. I know, I know. And if one more person tells me "it's the best book ever," I kid you not, I will probably go "Jackie Chan" on them.

Actually, to be perfectly honest with you all, I did read the first 10 pages of this book. And what ended up happening was what I knew would happen in the first place. I cried. For 10 pages. Sobbing. Can you hear the sound of me slamming the book closed, now?

You see, I tend to live life in a little bubble. Not always practical, but when it comes to subject such as losing my husband or children, I can't bear the thought of it. I know the rest of you are the same, but I for those 10 pages I read, all I kept thinking about was what my children and I would do or feel if we were faced with such a horrible prognosis of Mr. Monogram. I simply couldn't separate myself from the wife in the book. I'm not always like this, but for some reason, certain books do this to me and it's mainly books having to do with a critical illness/death of a parent and/or child. So, while I did not read this book and yes, I am quite aware that it is a fantastic book and I am happy that so many of you have read it, loved it, and gotten so much out of it, I will remain in my little bubble.

Ribbon Beaded Necklace

2009-06-05T09:25:00.004-04:00

The moment I saw this proect I knew I had to share it with my readers. This is a fun and cute idea, although honestly, I would do the beads all the way to the end of the ribbon (all the way around the entire neck), then put in a jewelry clasp in lieu of tying the end. You can get all your supplies from my favorite online trim store, M&J Trimming.

You Will Need

-1 yard of 50mm Midori Gala Dupioni Silk Ribbon (the color used here was Pin Moon)
-1 strand of 14mm Baroque Pearls ( #41520)
-Scissors
-Straight pins
-Thread and needle or a sewing machine

Instructions
1. First fold the ribbon in half and pin it along the edge.

2. Sew the two edges together which will create a tube.

3. Turn it inside out. You need to be patient in this step, since turning the tube inside out may take you a few minutes. You can use a chopstick to push the ribbon thru. You can also use a safety pin or a paper clip.

4. Now you can start putting the pearls inside the tube, make knots on the sides of it to make it stay in place.

source & photo: M&J Trimming

The Summer of Our Discontent

2009-06-04T10:28:00.004-04:00

And so it begins... the broken bones and injuries, that is.

Last Thursday the boys and I made an impromptu stop at the park since they were being so good running errands with me all morning. Everything was going great until mini #1 tripped and fell. He came to me holding his right arm, with wet eyes (not crying, just wet). To know my child is to know that he is by no means dramatic, nor is he a complainer. If he says he doesn't feel well, he is genuinely sick. And if he says he is hurt, then he really is hurt. Still, he wasn't making a big deal of it, just holding it.

We went home, iced his wrist off and on all afternoon as baseball tournaments were starting that night and he had a game to play. He said it was feeling better, just a little sore, but could play baseball. So we went to the game and his assistant coach who is a Dr. taped up his wrist and hand really well. He played a three HOUR baseball game that kept going into extra innings because the score kept tying up. It was a nail biter of a game, I kid you not. As it turned out, we were unable to finish the game though, because of lighting, so we all went home at 9:45ish with both teams planning to come back to the fields to finish the game Friday night. The winner would advance in the tournament and play Saturday.

On the way home, our friend who is a Orthopedic Surgeon called Mr. M to chit-chat about our game and Mr. M casually mentions the hurt wrist, just saying that mini #1 didn't have that great of a game because of it. Our friend insists I bring him into his office for an x-ray on Friday afternoon. So, Friday morning we wake up and mini #1 says his wrist is feeling much better. He can move it around and again, it was just a little sore. I feel really bad about wasting our friends time and call him to say I really think he's going to fine. In the end, I reluctantly bring him in for the x-ray "just to be on the safe side."

The result?

Our first broken bone. A broken wrist, to be exact.

At that point I'm pretty sure the world went quiet with my screams of "NOOOOOOOO!!!! IT'S THE FIRST WEEK OF SUMMER!!!!!" Since our friend was on call all weekend he wasn't able to come over and cast it until Sunday evening, but he is the now not-so-proud owner of a waterproof cast so at least he can still go swimming. ;-)

Naturally, you had to know I would monogram his cast, didn't you?

Just in Time for Fathers Day

2009-06-03T10:32:00.003-04:00

Things have been uber crazy here at chez Monogram (more to come on that later). And since today is the mini's first day at summer camp and my first day to have the house to myself to, oh I don't know, perhaps get some laundry done and clean a few toilets around here, I am only allotting myself to sit at the computer for 5 more minutes.

Therefore, my friends, just in time for Fathers day and those family beach trips, all my new designs are ready and available at my SWAG shop on Etsy. Fifty eight (yes, that's right FIFTY EIGHT) designs in all now, and I am in love with the new stuff. Honestly. Mr. Monogram will be getting a new SWAG shirt himself for Fathers Day and the mini's will be sporting the "nautical flag line" design themselves (which I think will look super cute with their embroidered nautical motif shorts). As always, remember that if you have any questions or want to see a larger image, just email me! I'm happy to oblige requests.

Nautical Inspiration

2009-05-29T09:47:00.003-04:00

Both of my boys are beach boys, and both love the ocean. My husband grew up on the water, sailing since he was a young child so Mini #2 has always been fascinated by this. Therefore, it was only fitting that when the time came to change his nursery into a "big boy" room, that I used a nautical theme. Again, there is a lot of tacky nautical stuff out there, and I prefer a more mature space for my children in their rooms.

The madras bedding is from the adult Pottery Barn catalog, and it is paired with a gorgeous hand-painted colorful fish pillow which matches perfectly. I've posted on the window treatment in his room before, which is a basic white roman shade which I added the green grosgrain trim to, a thick black-out liner, and his monogram. The bed skirt (again, something I've posted on in the past) is a white box-pleated skirt which I sewed on the green grosgrain ribbon to match his window treatment. On the wall next to his bed, I bought two oars, sanded and stained them, then we cut out a notch on one to attach them in an "x." I then personalized the oars where one says "S.S. Mini #2" and the other one says "Gaeta, Italy" (where our family is from). Like in mini #1's room, I love the artwork I bought and had framed for his room. They are sepia portraits of sails and masts of sailboats and pulley's and ropes. They are so dramatic and in thick chunky frames and something he will be able to keep and use forever.

Other small details around his room are wooden sailboats, a pretty silver sailboat and a huge and very heavy green ships bell that says "Captains Bell" on it (Mr. Monogram has taken to calling this the "bedtime bell" though and often rings it in the evening to round up the troops for bed, which the love because it has such a loud and deep ring). I also have little nautical stars around his room, a starfish here and there, and over his dresser, a huge portrait I took of Mini #2 watching the ocean when he was younger that I had done in a painting (Mini #1 also has a large portrait like this hanging in his room over his dresser as well, since it's at our beach and very special to both of them).

Mini #2's nautical inspired room.
{click photo to enlarge}

Closer look at his artwork
{click to enlarge}

P.S. I forgot to mention this, but Mini #1's room is painted in a very soft blue, and mini #2's nautical room is painted in a soft, pale green with a double chair rail.

All Aboard

2009-05-28T10:33:00.001-04:00

It's been a while since I've done a decorating post around here, so it's probably long overdue. I know at one point I promised my dear friend Third Coast Preppy I would post pictures of my boys bedrooms to help give her some ideas for her own boys rooms, and I aim to please. Today we'll start with mini #1's room.

When mini #1 was 15 months old he became obsessed with trains. So naturally, when it came time to give him his "big boy room," I knew I had to do trains, but a lot of train theme is so over the top tacky and monogram momma just doesn't do tacky. I wanted a more mature room that didn't scream TRAINS, and that would continue to grow with him, and to accomplish this, I bought adult bedding from Pottery Barn, had his shams monogrammed (of course I did), had gorgeous train paintings framed, and then bought vintage tin trains on ebay. My dad helped me mount them on wooden boards so I could hang them on the wall and they are very cool. The drapes I did myself and the fringe is the perfect shades of greens and blues which match his bedding perfectly. His favorite part of his room? The authentic railroad crossing sign I hung over his bed. It is very heavy and big so Mr. Monogram wasn't exactly thrilled to have the task of securing that piece over his son's head. ;-)

{click photo to enlarge}

closer look at the artwork. I love these.
{click photo to enlarge}

SWAG Sneak Peak

2009-05-25T20:47:00.005-04:00

Back in March, I started working on some new designs to add to my SWAG shop on Etsy, and I finally sat down and finished a bunch of them this weekend. I won't show them all to you, but here's a little sneak peak of a few designs I'll be adding this week. There are many more and they are all so cute I can hardly stand it!

National Stationery Show Recap

2009-05-25T06:44:00.003-04:00

What a great 3 days in New York! The NSS was fantastic, although from what I've been told, slightly smaller this year due to the economy, and some popular companies such as Boatman Geller were no-shows. However, it was still great. And if you've never been to Javits Convention Center in NY, then let me just tell you how big it is. HUGE. No, ENORMOUS.

I wasn't there five minutes when I literally ran smack into the talented Kristin Pearce. I mean, LITERALLY we ran into each other and started screaming like schoolgirls we were so excited to see each other. We've "known" each other for the past 3 years but this was the first time meeting in person and it was like we'd known each other forever. We met up for lunch later in the day where The Preppy Princess and the Princess Consort met up with us as well. Talk about FABULOUS! I can not wait to see PP and her husband again and get to spend some more time with them. Another person I finally connected with in person was the fabulous Grove Gal K and her partner Grove Gal E. LOVED THEM! I wish I'd gotten to spend some more time with them but hopefully I'll see them again soon (Atlanta, perhaps?).

It was also fantastic to finally meet all the designers that I've been blogging about for the past 3 years (Hello, Whitney English!) and to also spend a delicious dinner at a fun little Irish Pub with another preppy blogger, Suz. Suz is another blogging buddy I've known for years so she was so sweet to come pick me up at Javits after working all day, then take me out and make sure I got got on the correct train as well. We had a fun dinner mixed with a few beers so I can't wait to see her again too! Oh! Probably the most important person I finally got to meet in real life, was Caroline, owner of Paper Concierge. We talk every other day and although I've been with Paper Concierge since October, we've never met. Crazy! Anyway, she is as awesome as I knew she would be and I loved getting to spend time with her at the show. We had a great time and I look forward to seeing her again.

While I think my feet are still trying to recover from all the walking and I do have some funny NJ Public Transportation stories (as in a very nice Asian family taking pity on me and helping me with my luggage on the first day and then taking me all the way to Ridgewood, NJ where my bff lives), I would do it again a million times over. It was so amazing being in one place with so many creative people; it was truly inspiring!

$500 Sweepstakes

2009-05-20T16:09:00.004-04:00

I just received an email from my dear friend Alyssa, from A. Tierney ,telling me all about her Facebook sweepstakes & generous 20% discount so I wanted to make sure I passed it along to you guys. I've sung the praises of A. Tierney since Monogram Momma first opened her blogging doors in 2006 (although I've been buying her accessories since she began the company), and I will continue to do so. I should warn you though, that I plan on winning this sweepstakes though so best of luck to the rest of you!

Just Flew In & Boy, Are My Arms Tired!

2009-05-20T07:34:00.003-04:00

I just returned home from 3 days in New York for the National Stationery Show. Fantastic! Upon entering my bedroom last night, I was attacked by 2 little boys and 1 large chocolate lab. It was nice to be home! However, I'm fairly certain that when Summer Break starts next week I'll have to remind them how much they missed me when they complain I am boring.

Unfortunately I don't even have time to unpack, let alone do a decent post for you this morning as I am dashing out the door for mini #1's first grade field trip. I will, however, be back tomorrow, complete with loads of details and pictures!

Happy Hump Day!

Not 'Yo Momma's Average Weath

2009-05-15T07:04:00.000-04:00

I love looking at (and for) wreaths. I am forever curious of other peoples door decor and wall sconce arrangements. I also love changing out the decoration on my front door and try to keep something on the door from my garage leading into my kitchen as well (because after all, my mother always told me that 'back door guests are best!'). So I was thrilled to come accross this simple, unique, but oh so pretty preppy little wreath idea that makes a bold statment. Also, in lieu of a wreath, I love the idea of using this as your table centerpiece w/ a large bowl of fresh fruit or stacked apples as a centerpiece.

Radish Wreath

You Will Need
- Wreath base/frame: Get a 14-inch (or smaller) box-style wire wreath frame. Info: $1.40 each at Joann.com
- Paddle wire: Look for 22-gauge wire. Info: $1.50 for 110 feet at Save-on-crafts.com
- Wire cutters
- Radishes: Buy 15 to 25 bunches in a variety of colors and shapes (if that sounds like a lot, trust us; you’ll need more than you think

Instructions
1) Make a bouquet of two or three radish bunches, then wrap the wire around the bouquet a few times, leaving a long strand of wire (you’ll use it to anchor the radishes to the frame).

2) Position the bouquet on the frame, with the radishes facing up and the leaves toward the back.

3) Secure the bouquet to the frame by twisting its wire around the frame, then clip off the leftover strand of wire.

4) Continue to repeat step 1, attaching each new bundle close to the radishes that are already wired on, making your way around the wreath.

5) After you have completed the circle, step back and see if there are any holes or uneven clusters. Attach individual bundles or radishes where needed for a bountiful effect.

Note: Radishes should last up to two days; spritz with water to keep them looking fresh.

source: Sunset

Start Spreadin' the News

2009-05-13T07:16:00.007-04:00

I'm leavin' on Sunday! New York, here I come!

Sunday morning I am leaving at o'dark thirty to head to New York for the National Stationery Show. I am SUPER excited about seeing and meeting all the fabulous designers out there that we carry at Paper Concierge and whom I've also been blogging about for the past three years.

I'll be staying with my bff who just had her first baby all of 4 weeks ago, so I'm beyond excited to get to see her and get my hands on that sweet baby girl of hers. It's been killing me being so far away from her during this exciting time in her life. However, that means I'll be commuting from Ridgewood, NJ into the city and that makes for one very nervous Monogram Momma! YIKES! Transportation tips are welcome!

Monday evening I will be meeting up with Suz for a bite to eat and a drink or two, so if you're in the city, we'd love to have you join us! Email me if you're interested!

TV Talk: Grey's Anatomy (100th Episode)

2009-05-11T06:49:00.001-04:00

Saturday night I went to a fabulous "Margarita's in May" soiree hosted by my friend and fundraising chair, Kelly. It was a silent auction item at our Mardi Gras fundraiser in Feb for mini #1's school, so naturally, I had to buy in. What a great night! Kelly is quite the hostess and everything was so lovely and fun and done to the n'th degree.

Upon returning home from the party, however, I found my husband passed out in bed and SNORING. Ugh. So that left me twittering on my blackberry in bed, under the covers with Lisagh & Erin and a great Grey's discussion ensued while my husband just snored, snored, SNORED away next to me. This is what led me to my TV Talk today as I've simply GOT to talk in an open forum about this with ya'll.

So tell me what you think about last week's episode and this past season overall? Here are my thoughts:

FINALLY, the writing was equal to that of seasons 1 and 2. Shonda Rhimes definitely got her groove back and we had some amazing episodes this season
Last week had me sobbing. No, not sobbing, weeping. Loudly. (and you know you were too). It was nothing short of amazing.
2nd bullet point aside, so help me GOD if they do not marry Derek & Meredith already! Let's just at least see the two of them on an island, getting married quietly as they wanted. mmmkay?
I have loved this season of Derek & Meredith. She has been so much stronger and independent (cue Kelly Clarkstons, "Miss Independence") and they have had a true, equal, give and take relationship that they are both equally a part of. I LOVE it.
As Lisagh pointed out, I have really missed George's funny lines. Why have they let him sit on the side-lines this entire season? Do you think he's coming back next season? And if he does, what kind of storyline are they going to give him?
Izzy: This is a big one. The whole envisioning Denny thing was sooo incredibly stupid. But yes, I get it now. Katherine Heigel has been very open in the past about her dislike for her writers and storyline and I think this Caner storyline has been a way for them to keep her in check. Will she die or won't she? What do ya'll think?
I have to say, I also LOVE McSteamy & Lexie. They are so good together! He makes my heart skip a beat every now and again, and I love that she's making him good. She is a good girl, that Lexie, and has put up w/ a lot of crap. From Christina, from Meredith, from George, and even from McSteamy. I really hope he stays loyal to her & stays a good guy. But? I'm doubtful, especially now that our resident bad boy, Alex, has officially grown up & become a man.

So, what do you think?

There Once was Girl from Nantucket...

2009-05-07T08:07:00.007-04:00

**UPDATE** YAY! Great news for MM readers! See this comment left by Maria of Charlotte Carey Photography & book your summer session with her now! MM, Thanks so much for your lovely post about Charlotte Carey Photography. I would love to extend to your readers a 75 dollar discount off their session fee if they mention "monogram momma" upon scheduling. Discount will be available for June-September, 2009.Thanks so much for being one of our biggest fans and I hope to meet some of your other readers very soon out here on Nantucket!

So, as I was saying... There once was a girl from Nantucket, who was fabulous and talented and cared for sick people in her day job but took pictures of slobbery canines in her free time. What? Did you think I was going somewhere dirty with this little poem of mine?

This fabulous woman of whom I speak is my cousin, Maria Carey of Charlotte Carey Photography on Nantucket Island. And since many of my readers regularly summer on Nantucket, I thought some of you might be interested in having some professional photography done while you are there. Don't think twice about it, just call her. After all, you know you've been putting off doing this for a while now, right?

A mom of two golden retrievers (Zach & Sophie), she is wonderful and personable and very talendted and gifted. And no, I'm not the least bit biased as her work speaks for itself (why just look at this picture of adorable little Hazel!). While her focus is on pets, she does photograph children as well. She shoots in natural light and will even travel to New England if you find yourself doing more of a staycation in lieu of your regular vacation and thus can't make your way to Nantucket this summer.

You can also keep up with Maria on her blog, Pups on a Sandbar. Tell her I sent you and you won't be sorry!

Ole'!

2009-05-05T11:19:00.009-04:00

Hola chica's & Happy Cinco de Mayo! My love of mexico & their fine fare is no secret around these parts, and I can assure you that at some point today I *will* indeed be sporting a sombrero. In the mean time, pop open a cerveza or salt your margarita glass, enjoy the mariachi band, & grab your scissors & supplies for a simple and fun mexican paper flower making tutorial.

Mexican Tissue Flowers

You Will Need

-4 sheets pink tissue paper, 6" x 12" each
-4 sheets lime green tissue paper, 6" x 12" each
-Scissors
-Ruler
-Green pipe cleaner
-Color marker (if desired)

Instructions

1) Cut the pink tissue paper into 6" x 12" rectangles and stack in a pile of four sheets.

2) Keeping the pile together, fold the sheets along the 6" side, making 1" folds back and forth, like a fan. When you are finished, the folded tissue paper should be a rectangle measuring 1" x 6".

3) Round the four corners off by cutting with a scissors.

4) Fold the long edge of the pile in half so that it measures 1" x 3". Using the scissors, carefully make 2 diagonal cuts at the fold, each 1/4" from the edge, approximately 1/2" in length. (Note: be careful that you do not cut the folded tissue paper in half.) Open the fold back to its 1" x 6" shape. The shape should now resemble a bow tie.

5) Repeat steps 1 and 2 with the lime green tissue paper. Instead of step 3 (rounding off the corners), cut three sets of diagonal notches on both ends so that each side appears like a fork.

6) Repeat step 4 with the lime green tissue paper.

7) Fold a green pipe cleaner in half. Then place the folded pink tissue paper on top of lime green tissue paper and fasten together with the folded pipe cleaner. Squeeze the tissue paper in the middle and twist the pipe cleaner around to tightly secure the flower. This step also creates the stem of the flower.

8) With extreme care, fan out the pink paper on both sides of the pipe cleaner. (Be extra gentle: you do not want to rip the delicate tissue paper!) Slowly separate each of the four pink sheets, gathering each one toward the center. Behold your flower!

9) To create the leaves, fan out both sides of the lime green paper, but don't separate the sheets as you did with the pink paper. You want to leave the leaves thicker.

10) Gently shape with your hands until you achieve your desired form.

source: Right at Home

Book Club: The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society

2009-05-04T12:34:00.005-04:00

Tonight is book club and for April, MM girlfriend, Traci, is hosting at her home and chose The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows. I had heard lots of chatter about this book so I was eager to read it. And given how busy April has been for me, I'm still reading it and likely will still be reading it tonight while I'm sipping my glass of wine at Traci's, but that is neither here nor there.

I had a little difficulty getting into this book because it starts right off as a letter from the main character, Juliett, to her publisher friend, Sydney with no lead-up or warning at all. Juliett is a published author in London who wrote under the alias Izzy Bickerstaff during WW II. She essentially wrote humorous essays on the non-humorous events that were unfolding during the war (in England) and became a huge success. I should interject at this point and tell you that this is a historical fiction, just in case any of you get a wild hair and decide to google Izzy Bickerstaff.

Anyhoo, now in post war England, Juliett is given an assignment to write 3 articles for the Times on books and reading and what they came to mean to people during the war. Not knowing what to write about or where to start, she gets a random letter from a man who found one of her books in a book store in the Guernsey Islands who writes asking her for more information on the book and it's author, and that begins a long correspondence between the two. It is from these letters that Juliett learns of The Guernesy Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society that this man and his friends started during the War in Guernsey. Cut off from all communication with the outside world from the Germans, a group of he and his friends concocted this faux literary society as a way to still meet and enjoy eacht others company during the German occupation without getting in trouble w/ the Germans. And what started as a cover for their meetings, ended up turning into an actual book club which helped them cope during the war.

The entire book is written in letter form. Letters from one person to another, hand written dinner invitations, and all the members of the Literary Society corresponding to Juliett to tell her their own stories of their involvement w/ the Literary Society and the various members. All I kept thinking was that all this written correspondence must have been exhausting and nerve wracking waiting on replies since there was obviously no email in the mid 40's. Some of the characters are pretty humorous in their gossipy-type letters, but others are rather straight-forward but really explain a lot about the time period what was going on during the war. Once I got used to the format of the book, it was relatively easy to settle in to.

All in all, so far, so good. I can't say it's "great" because I haven't come close to finishing it yet. However, all my book club girlfriends who've finished are all raving about how much they love this book so my hopes are high.

photo source: Amazon.com

My First Time

2009-05-01T14:53:00.003-04:00

Don't read into the title of this post; it's not what you're thinking. I just finished my first key fob this week and gave it to my girlfriend, Michel, today for her birthday and she just loved it. While I've done plenty of belts and pillows, never a fob.

Her father is a Dutch immigrant so she is all about everything Dutch and wooden shoes, tulips, windmills, the whole nine yards. They also love visiting all their family in Holland so I knew I had to do the Dutch flag on her key fob for her. Here she is as my lovely model.

If, like myself, you are a regular needlepointer and are wanting to make a key fob or two, I highly recommend you hop on over to Lisagh's Grosgrain Garage and follow her fantastic step-by-step instructions. You won't find a better explanation anywhere. The only slight variation I made to my fob is that I sewed the leather backing to the needlepointed fob in lieu of gluing it.

All in all, it turned out adorable & I see many more key fobs in my future. Thanks for the tips, Lisagh!

And They're OFF!

2009-04-30T07:48:00.005-04:00

While I will sitting in the baseball bleachers watching the mini's back to back baseball games and not attending Derby Day this Saturday, a good friend of mine will. She is from Lexington and all about the gorgeous dress and big hat for this annual event. Maybe if I beg enough, she'll let me post some pictures, but no promises on this one, girls.

Still wanting to get into the spirit, I've decided the least I can do is make these delicious treats, clearly worthy of the winners circle themselves.

MINT JULEP CUPCAKES
{adapted from Cooking and Booking}

Ingredients:
Cupcakes
1 cup butter
2 cups sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon mint extract
4 eggs
2 3/4 cups flour
3 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk
1/2 cup bourbon (or whiskey)
1/2 cup Creme de Menthe

Icing
3 cups sifted powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon mint extract
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 stick unsalted butter,
meltedmilk

Instructions:
Cupcakes
1) Preheat the oven to 350º F, and grease or line 30 cupcake cups.
2) Combine salt, baking powder, and 1 3/4 cups of the flour.
3) Beat butter, sugar, eggs, and extracts in a large mixing bowl until creamy.
4) Gradually beat in the flour mixture.
5) Add the milk and liquors to the batter, then the rest of the flour (1 cup).
6) Mix as little as possible, just until the batter comes together.
7) Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake cups.
8) Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center of a cupcake comes out clean. Let cool.

Icing
1) Combine the powdered sugar, salt, extracts and melted butter and beat until creamy.
2) Gradually add milk until the texture is right for piping.
3) When the cupcakes are completely cool, pipe or spread the icing on top.
4) Garnish with cake sparkles or sprinkles, a straw (trimmed to size), and mint leaves.

photo & source: hostessblog.com

Pssst!

2009-04-28T12:24:00.004-04:00

At the risk of sounding like a QVC host, I wanted to hop on and share with you that right now, I am having a THIS DAY ONLY SALE on ALL engraved jewelry AND embroidery at Paper Concierge. Remember, Mothers Day, Graduation, and end of year teachers gifts are all coming up so take advantage of the sale today b/c it will be gone tomorrow! Use code Twitter20Psst! Don't see something you have in mind? Shoot me an email and tell me what it is and I'll add it to my site for you!

So Royal it Deserves a Crown

2009-04-27T21:23:00.005-04:00

This past weekend was crazy. Not just crazy, INSANE. I'll get into that later in the week, but despite my crazy long weekend, I had some time to dash into the bookstore near my parents house while in Atlanta. And you know those theme table of books they always have set up (ie. sappy books for Mothers Day, inspirational books for Graduates, you get the idea) when you walk in the door? Well sometimes they suck and there is no cohesion to them (I mean really, my kids could do a better job putting together a table of books with a common theme, people), and sometimes there is a golden light glowing from one of those tables. Like a little halo, if you will. The table that was just made for you. Piles of new books with fresh, hard bindings waiting to be cracked open, just chock FULL of books that you want to devour. I found my table. To be fair, I found several tables and quite frankly could have wiped out our 401K at that bookstore but let's not be too hasty. We are in a recession after all and Mr. Monogram does work in the automotive industry (a moment of silence, please), so all I did was whip out my phone and start adding to my "Books to Read" list.

Here's one of them...

All glossy and shiny (and yes, gold!), this book has it all. A must have for any Martha wanna-be like me (and you). And while I didn't read the dedication in the book, I'm pretty sure it was written for me.

Now, while I've got you all thinking about cookies, it just so happens that a friend has asked for my Royal Icing recipe. What better time to share it, right? So here it is. I'll admit, I do less measuring with this recipe and more tasting. I go a lot by texture, weight, and taste, but just know you can't really screw it up. Oh, and don't forget as with any royal icing recipe, it's always best to keep your bowl of frosting covered w/ a damp towel to prevent it from drying out.

Ingredients

3 egg whites

1 lb confectioner's sugar (powdered sugar)

1/2 tsp cream of tartar

1tsp of flavoring of your choice (almond extract, vanilla extract, lemon extract, etc)

Instructions

1) Put all the ingredients in a bowl and beat on medium for a good 10 minutes or so.

2) You want the icing to form a good stiff peak, and become nice and glossy.

Que the Ticker Tape Parade

2009-04-22T08:06:00.004-04:00

Four new backgrounds, seven (yes, SEVEN) new header designs, & countless hours cursing at the internet because no hablo the htmlo, Monogram Momma is back. Start up the bands and let the parade begin! I kid, I kid (maybe).

This time around, things are going to be a little different, though, so instead of setting up high blogging expectations for myself, I'm just going to go ahead and lower the proverbial bar and let you know that I don't have time to blog every day. I am also taking the pressure off myself to re-create every single project I want to do, myself, instead of just putting it out here to share with you guys as is. The new and (dare I say) improved Monogram Momma will be more relaxed and a little more open to share some personal stories about what's going on with me since, after all, I'm not exactly anonymous. But there's no harm in pretending, right?

xo-Monogram Momma

Winter Break

2008-12-28T18:57:00.004-05:00

UPDATE 1/13/09: Well folks, I've decided to take an extended winter break. I just don't have the time or enthusiasm for creative blogging right now, so I'm trading blogger for Twitter. See what I'm up to, working on, cooking, and taking pictures of as I check in with you more than a dozen times a day. Now that? I have time to do. So for the time being, you can find me here...

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

The Monogram's will be busy visiting with friends

and taking day trips here and there so I'll see you all in '09!

XOXO-MM

What's Left

2008-12-23T08:47:00.003-05:00

Well folks, it's T-2 days. What's left on your lists?

Here's a little peek at my not-so-exciting list of things that needs to be done today. But hey, good news for the Monograms! I've woken up with about 40% hearing back in my left ear. It's a start, right?

Target
-black tights for me
-black socks for the mini's
-Bows & decorative crap for gift boxes
-dog food b/c apparently preppy puppy's dog food didn't exactly make it into the cart yesterday so she's a tad hungry and whiny this morning (but aren't we all?)
Haircut
-Mini #1 is looking a little too shaggy for my taste
3 Minute Car Wash
-That's right. A 3 minute car wash that costs $3 and gives you unlimited time with the extra super suction vacuum of your choice. Merry Christmas to me.
Hobby Lobby
-Pipe cleaners b/c *someone* (and by *someone* I totally mean my husband) threw out my previously purchased pipe cleaners for our little snowflake craft
-more wrapping paper
-nice frame for Mr. M's dad & step-mother
Start wrapping
-that's right, I haven't even started. Don't judge, people!
Stocking stuffer
-nope, none of these either!
Mr. Monogram Christmas
-need to get on top of picking up a few more things for him as well.
Cookies
-all the dough was made yesterday so tonight we'll have to roll out the cookies & decorate
Airport
-2 trips, to be exact...
-the kids have absolutely NO idea Mr. M's dad & step-mom are coming to surprise them for Christmas so they are going to be SHOCKED and so excited to say the least!

Remember, if you want to be on the inside, so-to-speak of my SUV while we're doing all these oh so fun and exciting things, twitter along with me @ www.twitter.com/cmolino. Warning: Snarkiness tends to be at it's peak when I'm running errands real-time with the mini's (don't say you weren't warned).

Merrilly, Merrilly, off we go!

Festive Ribbon Brie

2008-12-22T09:05:00.003-05:00

I'm still deaf out of my left ear and I'd be lying if I told you I wasn't incredibly concerned at this stage of the game. It's making for some miserable times for jolly 'ol Monogram Momma.

At any rate, my dear blogging buddy emailed me for a great holiday appetizer recipe so I had to share with her my all-time favorite. I do this every Christmas, and it's always a huge hit. Therfore, I'm passing it along to you, as you all scurry frantically through Epicurious and All Foods online, looking for a fresh appetizer recipe as well. Enjoy!

Festive Ribbon Brie
-1 ripe, round Brie cheese (8 ounces)
-1/4 cup butter, softened
-1/3 cup Sonoma Dried Tomato Halves, reconstitutedas package directs, drained and chopped
-1 small clove garlic, pressed
-1/4 cup chopped, toasted walnuts
-2 teaspoons chopped parsley
-Box of Puff Pastry (comes w/ 2 sheets)

Place wrapped cheese in freezer. Chill until firm but not frozen, about 1 hour. With sharp knife, halve cheese horizontally; set aside. Beat butter, then beat in tomatoes and garlic. Mix in walnuts. Spread tomato mixture evenly on cut side of one cheese half. Cover with remaining cheese, cut side down; press gently. Roll cheese on its side in parsley to coat tomato layer.

Next, roll out your puff pastry sheet really well so it will cover your entire brie. Place the brie in the center and cover it, making sure there are no uncovered parts of the brie. Seal those edges well w/ the tines of a fork so it won't come lose when cooking. Cover in an egg wash, then flip the brie over so the seams are on the bottom. Cover the top in the egg wash also, before placing in oven. Depending on your oven, put it in for 365-400 degrees for about 15-20 minutes (until it's nice and cooked but not oozing).

I also use some extra dough from the puff pastry and make a little holiday cut-out for the top of the brie so it's more festive and decorated.

Twitter with Me

2008-12-19T08:51:00.003-05:00

Since I'm still down and out (and deaf, I might add), I've started twittering. Interested in seeing how very *exciting* my days are like? Then twitter along with Monogram Momma!

www.twitter.com/cmolino

At the very least, it'll keep us in touch while I'm off from blogging.

xoxo-MM

And the Illness Continues...

2008-12-15T07:37:00.003-05:00

**UPDATE 8/18** Still sick! I have now had no hearing out of my left ear for 6 full days and I can't tell you how bad it sucks. Do you have any idea what happens when your eardrum is this inflamed and infected? It also means you get Vertigo and get dizzy and can't walk in a straight line. So basically, if I get pulled over, I wouldn't pass a street DUI test. NICE.

I saw a 2nd Dr. this week and now I"m on a super strong antibiotic b/c the previous one wasn't doing anything for me, plus a high dosage of oral steroids, and an antihistamine. I'm not getting much accomplished around here and let me tell you, it's certainly nothing crafty. To sum up, I could really use a Christmas miracle this year in the form of getting my hearing back and not having to worry about possible permanent hearing damage that my Dr. seems to think could be a reality if the swelling doesn't go down soon. So if you've got any connections with the Big Guy upstairs, I'm just sayin'.....

Yep, still sick. I've now added a double ear infection and laryngitis (sp?) to the mix. You know, just to make things super fun this Christmas and all. *sigh*

In essence, I'm deaf in one ear and can't speak louder than a whisper.

My left ear is so inflamed, the Doc said it looked like it could burst. No kidding, because let me tell you that's exactly what it feels like, too.

So I'll be back. One of these days. In the mean time, keep on crafting and keep on cooking!

Xo-MM

Sick, Sick, Sick

2008-12-10T18:16:00.002-05:00

Sick child with ear infection.

Now, a sick Monogram Momma with the FLU.

Husband out of town.

SOS!

ughhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh

Candy Garland

2008-12-05T06:40:00.000-05:00

What will the Monogram's be doing this evening? Well that is simple... working on our fun tree for the playroom! If you'll remember from last year, we had the best time making every single ornament for this tree. It's casual and quirky and doused in lots of faux snow and old fashioned tinsel to boot.

Last year I tried, with no success I might add, to make a marshmallow garland. I really thought it would work. Let me tell you guys, all I ended up with was a whole lot of yuck and marshmallow fluff. But since every ornament on this tree is made by the boys and I, and I my intent is for us to add to it ever year, tonight we will be making peppermint garland. I'll show you ours next week, and you can bet it will be a little more pink and green than red and white!

You Will Need

-Wrapped Candies or peppermints of some kind

-small pieces of ribbon (psst! Have some fun and go crazy! Use multiple colors of ribbon!)

Instructions

-take two pieces of wrapped candy and put an end to an end where they are overlapping

-secure them together with a piece of ribbon

-keep repeating until you reach your desired length!

Holiday Designs from SWAG

2008-12-03T15:35:00.003-05:00

I've been meaning to post these for a few days as I finally put up some new designs on my SWAG shop on Etsy. So stinkin' cute if I do say so! After the holiday's I will be neutralizing some of the designs and changing the colors so they can be worn all winter and not just Christmas. Let me know if you want colors changed and we can get that done right away for you.

OH!! I almost forgot! I don't have it on the SWAG storefront but I can also do maternity tee's with any of these festive designs for you preggo's out there. Email me if you are interested and I'll get it done and up on the site for you. Cheers!

Xo-MM

Discount: A. Tierney for Monogram Momma Readers Only!

2008-12-02T16:13:00.006-05:00

On the First Day of Christmas my true love gave to me,

a fabulous discount from A. Tierrrrrrr-neyyyyyyyyy!

Has it Really been a Year??

2008-12-01T08:22:00.003-05:00

Can you believe new Preppy Puppy is 1 year old today? Because I sure can't! I've got an awesome discount from A. Tierney coming to you later today, plus tomorrow, new SWAG holiday designs (which are soooooo cute, if I do say so!). But in the meantime, raise a glass (or dogbowl) in honor of New Preppy Puppy's 1st Birthday and check out this photo montage from her 1st year!

Happy Birthday, Brown Girl!!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-27T08:14:00.004-05:00

We are gearing up for the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and a day of cooking and fun for the family and I hope you are too. And in case you're looking for something simple to keep the kids occupied while all the cooking mayham ensues, here's a little something for you.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Xo-MM

You Will Need

Corn husks

Pinecone

Craft glue

Twigs,

pieces of vine, or gourd stems

Tacky glue, such as Magna-TacTwine or string

Place card

Hole punch

Instructions

1. Using scissors, cut small feather shapes from corn husks. Dip the stems into craft glue, and insert them between the scales of the pinecone, attaching feathers to its base in several rows so that they fan out like a turkey's tail, with the lighter colored feathers in front.

2. Twist, shape, and trim a twig, piece of vine, or gourd stem to form the turkey's head and gobbler; gnarled gourd stems make interesting and distinctive faces. Apply tacky glue to its end, and secure onto the front of the pinecone.

3. Write the name of a guest on a place card. Punch two holes into the upper corners of the card, and thread a piece of twine or string through the holes. Knot the ends, and hang the card around the turkey's neck.

source: Martha Stewart

Black Friday Shopping

2008-11-26T08:42:00.003-05:00

Monogram Momma will not be partaking in Black Friday shopping this year although I am all for the rest of you helping our failing economy by spending your hard earned dollars. It was always a huge tradition in my family (we would even go leave a car at Lenox Mall on Thanksgiving night and then my dad would drop us off the next morning, bright and early!), but I am opting to stay snuggling in my warm pj's this year. However, I know plenty of you will be donning your festive apparel to hit the shops, so here are a few websites to check out all the sales flyer's and map out your game plan for Friday.

Black Friday Ads

Black Friday Info

Black Friday 2008

Black Friday at Gotta Deal

Cut It Out

2008-11-24T09:29:00.007-05:00

We are in full Thanksgiving prep mode here at the Monogram's (and by "we" I really mean me). As with every year since we moved away from our family, we host Thanksgiving and do a deep fried Turkey and lots of fabulous sides. Some traditional, some not so traditional. For instance, this year, Paula Dean's fried bacon mashed potatoe's will be on the table (no standard ole boring mashed potatoes for us!). But have I ever shared with you the correct way to cut a turkey? I don't think so, so here you go, just in case...

1. Place the chicken or the turkey (any size) on a cutting board with a trough to catch the juices. Cut through the crispy skin that connects the leg and the breast and slice down, pulling the thigh away from the bird. Continue until you reach the joint and cut through it to separate the leg.

2. Carve off the breast meat in one piece: Slide the knife along one side of the breastbone, as close to the bone as possible. Cut the breast off the carcass.

3. Place the breast meat on the cutting board and thinly slice. Transfer the meat to a platter (not shown).

4. Place the leg on the board and cut through the joint between the thigh and drumstick. Transfer to the platter. Detach the wing where it connects to the bird. Transfer it to the platter, then repeat steps on the other side.

Source: Real Simple

Custom Dress Forms in a Day

2008-11-20T07:53:00.006-05:00

For all the home decor and small project sewing I do, there are very few clothing items I've actually ever made (or attempted to make, that is). Many years ago when bff Ashley and I were relatively new sewers (I'm talking about 11 or 12 years ago), we each decided to make something for ourselves. I bought a pattern for a super cute high waisted short sundress that I was going to make out of a pretty white eyelet fabric. It was supposed to be one of those patterns they claim is "Sew Easy!" Riiiiight. "Sew Easy" my foot. Anyway, Ashley for whatever reason, decided her first clothing attempt would be on a shirt. And no, not a t-shirt, but a blouse. As in long sleeves and buttons and the whole nine yards. I'm sure you are smarter that we were to realize this was most likely not going to end well.

And it didn't.

Both of our items turned out so tight that I could barely breathe because the chest was so tight, and that is nothing to say of the giant uni-boob my cute little sundress gave me as well and the circulation that was being cut off under my arm pits. As for Ashley, she could barely even button her blouse and if memory serves me correct, one sleeve was longer than the other and the collar was funky and the buttons and button holes were lopsided as well. You have to really know Ashley and I in real life to know that by George we were wearing our creations! I actually wore mine out of the house out to Mexican dinner with my family (I can still remember it well), and I'm pretty sure Ashley just wore hers around her apartment while she cleaned that day and ran errands. I'm sure we were quite a sight. However, in or defense, go ahead and try to take your own waist, chest, arm, and leg measurements and see how accurate you are. I dare you.

I've made a few small things with great difficulty for my nieces and the boys since, but I honestly really try to stay away from sewing clothes. That first experience did teach me something though. And that is, that if you're going to sew clothes for yourself, it is important to have a dress form. But geez, have you checked out the price on those suckers? They are not cheap, nor do they exactly fit in with my decor. But that's okay, because I found two awesome ideas for actually making your own exact replica dress form of your own body. Who knows, if I do this and decide I'm still not a good apparel seamstress, then if nothing else, having an exact replica of my body shape will probably encourage me to get back on my diet and exercise plan!

Duct Tape Dress Form (stick with me, I promise it's good)

You Will Need
-A large T-shirt that fits below the bum that will be cut up and destroyed in the process
-Another small piece of discard able cloth (a paper towel will do)
-At least two 45 gram rolls of duct tape
-A pair of sharp scissors
-Cardboard, and cardboard tubing
-Something to stuff the form with (peanuts, foam, polyfil, old clothes, be creative)
-A helper

Instructions (view slide show for photo montage)
1-Put on large T-shirt and have your helper begin to wrap the roll of duct tape around your body. Make sure the tape is somewhat smooth and that there are no gaps in between wraps. Stop wrapping once the bust is reached.

2-Cut several strips of tape from the roll and apply them it a vertical pattern along the curves of the bust for most natural looking shape fit. Be sure to pat the tape down after the helper applies it to ensure shape.

3-Once taping of bust is complete, begin to extend tape from front to back (making sure model’s hair is clipped up as not to tape hair...eek). Apply the second piece of fabric around the neck and back (sort of looks like a scarf or ascot) and begin wrapping tape around shoulders and bottom of arms until you have completed the basic shape of the dress form you are looking for.

4-Repeat by continuing to add two more layers of duct tape over original layer to complete a total of three layers. Fee free to either follow same wrapping method or try a vertical layering method, whichever you prefer.

5-With a sharpie, draw a vertical and horizontal line to mark the center of the dress form.

6-With the scissors, begin to cut tape and T-shirt at the base of the form where your line was drawn. Make sure you have your hand in place between the T-shirt and the regular shirt you are wearing as not to cut your own shirt in the process. If you are having a hard time cutting all the way up the form from the bottom, you can cut from the top as well.

7-Remove form from body and have your helper hold the form while you add a layer of tape to the cut line. Now you have the desired shape!

8-Cut a piece of cardboard that fits the bottom of your form and the sleeve holes, tape them in place and stuff the form until you have your desired shape and mass. Close off the top with tape. Either affix finished form to pole made from cardboard tubing or hang from hanger.
source: Etsy Labs

Molded Papier Mache Dress Form

You Will Need
-paper (brown paper is best so it looks nicer)
-glue
-water
-knife

Instructions (view slide show for photo montage)
1-First make a plaster mold. For full instructions, go to www.mytwindressforms.com.Cut the form in half along the sides. Line it with paper towels to keep the papier-mâché from sticking to the plaster.

2-Apply a 1/2-in. layer of papier-mâché. Make it thicker at the edges, and be sure they’re very smooth.

3-Drying may take several days. When fully dry, remove from the cast and smooth over surface cracks with a thin layer of papier-mâché.

4-Glue the halves together and tie firmly. Slide shims under the cords to tighten them as the glue dries.
source: Threads Magazine

Boatman Geller Discount

2008-11-19T10:12:00.004-05:00

Boatman Geller has long since been a favorite of every preppy or dare I even say anyone with good taste at all. So I know you guys do NOT want to miss out on this promo I am offering, especially with the holiday's right around the corner.

Now through November 23rd, receive $10 off your order when you buy 3 or more melamine plates from me, your favorite Paper Concierge (and yes I can say that since this is my blog and I sure hope I'm your favorite Concierge!). These plates are microwave and dishwasher safe and make any casual get together either indoors or out look truly elegant. Have that person on your list who has everything under the sun (including their highly coveted beach or lake house?) and is impossible to buy for? Then I bet they don't have a matching set of BG plates to step their entertaining up a notch and now is the perfect time to order.

Hop on over to my site and check them out. I even had a customer whose mother wanted to pick up a special plate for each of her grandchildren to give at Christmas that they could keep at her house, as their special plates when they come to visit. Another FABULOUS idea!!

Click here to view the selection and
Use coupon code bgplate at checkout!

Back in the Real World

2008-11-18T08:13:00.003-05:00

It's true. I'm back in the real world, which I have to admit, kind of sucks compared to the fabulous vacation, completely spoiled life I've been living the last week. *sigh*

You know the worst part about coming back from being out of the country for vacation? Trying to catch up with everything I missed on Crackbook, I mean, Facebook. I've got a great discount coming up later today and I'm going to upload my photo's as well from the trip. For now I'm off to drop off mini #2 at pre-school and hit up Target. That's right, ladies. Just another day in the glamorous life of Monogram Momma...