DIY

Galvanized Metal Planter with American Flags

June 12, 2018 by Vanessa Leave a Comment

What’s not to love about celebrating July 4th with family and friends? The yummy grilled food, the fireworks filling the night sky, and the memories made while lighting your own fireworks in the driveway make the day a true American celebration!

Do you decorate your home for the holiday? As compared to other holidays, my inventory of July 4th decorations is pretty slim. So, I decided to put my DIY skills to the test by crafting a patriotic wall hanger to display on our front porch. I wish I could claim this idea as my own, but I remember seeing something similar to it on Pinterest years ago. Let me tell you…I’ve never completed a DIY project in less time and I’m super satisfied with the results! You’re going to love how simple it is to make a Galvanized Metal Planter with American Flags, too.

Supplies: I purchased a galvanized metal planter from Kirklands on clearance (only $7) and rectangular blocks of flower foam (only $3 from at Walmart for a set of three block). Also, I bought four packages of small American flags (4 flags per bag) from Walmart.

Instructions: Insert one flower foam rectangular block into the metal planter. Then, insert 12-15 small flags inside the foam at varying angles.

Optional: I reused a burplap bow, once used on an old wreath, and hot glued it to the front of the galvanized planter. It was that simple! This four-step DIY project couldn’t be simpler!

I love how eye-catching the American flags are from the street! Where would you hang it? The galvanized planter could be displayed on your home’s front door or from a garage outdoor sconce.

How can you reuse the metal planter once July 4th is over? You could easily swap out the American flags for artificial flowers or twigs depending on the holiday season.

5 Ways I Spoil Myself (and why you should pamper yourself)

March 5, 2018 by Vanessa Leave a Comment

Sometimes you have to put yourself first.

Pampering yourself is necessary to regain perspective, to boost your confidence, and to hit the reset button now and then. If that means that you spoil yourself by splurging on a night out with friends or restocking your closet with a new wardrobe, then by all means – celebrate you!

I used to do nice things for myself only when I thought I deserved it. For example, if I passed a major college exam or got a raise at work, I would convince myself I had “earned” the right to do spoil myself. As I matured, I realized that self-preservation doesn’t mean I have to justify buying a new spring wardrobe or a vacation somewhere. Giving back to yourself is a part of self-care.

Is it time for you to pay it forward to yourself?

I bet you’re like me in that you give so much of yourself to work, family, and your household that you seldom give thought to yourself and how you’re feeling. Time constraints keep so many of us from giving back to ourselves. Check out 5 Ways I Spoil Myself below and I’ll bet you discover at least one way you to pamper yourself without spending a ton of time doing it!

Birthday Meal. I always treat myself to a delicious lunch at one of my favorite restaurants on my birthday. Even if I have to dine alone, because all of my favorite people are stuck at work, I’ll dine on my city’s best nachos, fattoush salad, or pizza. In my twenties, I once filled an entire table at The Mad Greek in Lawrence, Kansas with a spread of Mediterranean favorites including a cocktail on my birthday! Why? Because I was celebrating me!
StitchFix. Life is too short for me to spend another minute hating myself for having to cut through crowds at the mall to find staple clothing items. Enter…StitchFix! Every month I receive my “fix” in the mail that includes five clothing or accessories to add to my closet. I’m like a kid on Christmas when the green and white box arrives with hand-selected items from my personal stylist. If I don’t like something, I simply mail it back. It’s great!
Hair Color. The first time I had an Aveda stylist color my hair and give me a scalp massage at the shampoo bowl, I was hooked. I didn’t need to spend another minute contemplating hair color options in the drugstore aisle. Now my trusted stylist colors my hair and you can see the difference. The cost of paying a professional to color my hair leaves it feeling soft and looking healthy.
Flowers. Ain’t nobody got time to wait for someone else to buy them flowers! Buy them for yourself! Every month I purchase a bouquet of marked down flowers to add to our home. It makes me happy to see bright colors across the room and that level happiness is worth $5 any day.
Gourmet Food. You know me, I love yummy food. So it’s no surprise that I would spoil myself by throwing some fancy cheese or a few expensive condiments into my shopping cart. Why deny yourself sushi or fresh mozzarella? Just buy it every once in a while and relish in the satisfaction of your purchase while you devour it!

You deserve to walk around in this world a happier person even if it means going the extra mile to spoil yourself. I’m not suggesting you waste your next paycheck on all of your favorite things in the name of “self-care.” Instead, select one or two activities that bring you joy and add them into your life on a regular basis. You’ll feel more delightful overall!

20 Ways to Be Kind to Yourself

January 8, 2018 by Vanessa Leave a Comment

So often I read articles about how to pay-it-forward and be kind to others, something you know I appreciate! However, we often neglect to be kind to ourselves. It’s like the airplane oxygen mask rule: put the oxygen mask on yourself first so that you can assist others. If we’re not healthy and not taking care of ourselves, then we can’t present the world the best version of ourself to aide others.

Why don’t we take time for ourselves?

It’s simple. We allow the world’s demands to distract us from turning the focus on ourselves. Of course, there are events in our lives that require us to act and live selflessly. That’s okay as long as we understand that life is a balance. At the end of the day, we are no good to anyone else if we have nothing left to give.

When I take time for myself to relax, to learn or to just be still — I’m a better person to those who I connect with in the world. So, when was the last time you took a hour to give back to yourself?

If you’re like me and often need a reminder to prioritize myself, here are 20 Ways to Be Kind to Yourself.

Take a long shower or enjoy a hot bath. Relax.
Prepare your favorite meal even if it’s not what others want to eat for dinner.
Use your vacation days from work. Americans don’t use provided vacation days, according to Forbes. Learn why.
Subscribe to a delivery service like Stitch Fix or order your household supplies from Amazon. Give yourself a break from shopping!
Go for the appetizer. You always turn down the restaurant server’s suggestion for a pre-meal bite. Stop denying yourself the queso!
Upgrade your shoe game or wardrobe.
Make an appointment for a massage or make-up application.
Read a self-help book or an inspirational story.
Meet a friend for lunch. Conversations with friends are a vital to understanding oneself.
Buy yourself flowers or a nice bottle of wine.
Meditate.
Go to bed an hour early every night for a week.
Eat a nourishing breakfast.
Yoga. Downward dog anyone?
Allow yourself free time for a hobby you’ve put on the back burner.
Try an at-home facial.
Gently rub your temples.
Eliminate the feeling of being rushed in the morning before work. Pack your lunch the night before.
Dedicate one evening every week to watching your favorite show or movie.
Get a babysitter and take yourself on a date.

How have you taken time for yourself recently? Tell me in the comments section below!

DIY: Dowel Rod Tomato Cages

July 9, 2017 by Vanessa Leave a Comment

Nothing is more rewarding for this city girl than growing my own food. I did it! I actually harvested homegrown tomatoes from container pots and I barely spent any money to do it. Look at those beauties below.

I made inexpensive dowel rod tomato cages instead of buying the plastic coated or metal variety.

Here’s the awesome, cost saving breakdown:

Because I bought the Jet Set tomato plant for $1, vegetable soil $6, and three dowel rods per pot $.80 each, I’d say that’s pretty inexpensive since I’m still harvesting tomatoes and it’s only mid July. Since I split the bag of vegetable soil between two large pots, I spent about $6 per container pot.

After you add new soil and a tomato plant, you will need the following items purchased from a local hardware store to make DIY: Dowel Rod Tomato Cages.

1 DIY Dowel Rod Tomato Cage:

3 dowel rods cut to the length you need
1 rubber band
ball of twine

First, I used a handsaw to cut each dowel rod down to the length taller than each plant to allow for growth. Second, I inserted each dowel rod around the circumference of the container pots interior as if I was building a teepee. Third, I used a rubber band to bring together the tops of the dowel rods. I recommend using a extra strong rubber band like the ones that come with your store bought broccoli, if you’ve got one in the kitchen junk drawer.

Lastly, to give the tomato leaves something to grow around and to enhance the strength of the dowel rods, I wrapped twine tightly around the outside of each cage in two places.

That’s it! I’ve been pleasantly surprised that I haven’t needed to reposition the dowel rods or twine even after moving the pots several times. I think you’ll agree that this do-it-yourself method for building a tomato cage is not only inexpensive but incredibly easy to do.

Now, if you’ll excuse me. A platter of caprese salad made from homegrown tomatoes and basil with mozzarella and drizzled with balsalmic and olive oil is calling my name.

Someone recently told me that their favorite summer fruit is…the tomato. I don’t blame them! Yep, it’s actually a fruit. It’s such a versatile ingredient whether used fresh like in a salad or stewed in a pasta sauce like my Dutch Oven Bolognese Sauce.

If you’re in love with tomatoes this season, peel the skin and juice them to create a Michelada with Lime (think Bloody Mary made with Mexican beer) or used stewed and diced tomatoes inside Lone Star Turkey Chili with Sour Cream and Chives for tonight’s family dinner.

Happy Tomato Harvesting to you! I hope your container garden yields dozens of tomatoes this season. Let me know what DIY outdoor project you’re working on in the comments section below.

How to Rust Proof a Wrought Iron Raised Dog Dish Stand

May 23, 2017 by Vanessa Leave a Comment

We are the products of a society that simply throws things away and replaces them when they break or don’t suit our tastes anymore.

Think: when is the last time you bought a duplicate of something you already owned?

Maybe it’s because I was raised in a do-it-yourself household, but I’m the type of person who first considers if they can fix or renovate something before buying it new, again. Plus, I feel accomplished knowing that I created or “re-created” something with my hands!

It seems like the idea of renovation is more popular than ever thanks to HGTV shows like Fixer Upper, Rehab Addict, and Home Town. What’s old is new again! Well, I decided to roll up my sleeves and refurbish our dog’s wrought iron raised dog dish stand after a couple years of neglect left it incredibly rusted and looking sad.

Perhaps you don’t have a raised dog bowl stand, but I bet you also have a rusted metal plant stand or outdoor lantern that is beginning to look a bit sad too. No fear! In a few easy steps you can bring that tired piece of metal artwork back to it’s glory. Let’s get started.

Summon up that can-do spirit because we’re about to take this rusted piece of junk back to its original beauty. What is that gross white stuff anyway?

Because our 10 year-old dog Sasha laps her water wildly when she drinks, this wrought iron dog dish stand has suffered from quite a bit of rust. She has the longest tongue I’ve ever seen on a dog!

The first step to fixing this rust problem is to remove as much of it as possible using a metal brush.

A small metal brush like this one works well for curved metal projects because it allows you to get into the small grooves of metal to free loose pieces of rust.

After breaking loose every bit of rush from all sides of the stand, you can use a soft bristled brush or rag to clean up its surface.

After brushing the rust pieces loose from the metal stand, you can position it on top of old cardboard boxes or newspaper to prepare your space to cover it with Rust Stop indoor/outdoor spray paint.

Using smooth continuous strokes, spray all sides of the metal stand. Allow it to dry, turn it upside down, and spray the bottom sides of it as well. If you have to paint more than one coat, expect several hours of drying time.

This spray in particular is awesome to use because it not only prevents future rust but also paints your metal items just as great as any other brand of spray paint. TIP: After completely spraying your projects with canned spray paint, turn the can upside and spray it just a little bit more to keep the nozzle from clogging.

Looks like Sasha just got herself a refurbished metal dog dish that looks awesome. Of course, she didn’t even notice but I did!

What new potential do you see in your old metal pieces now? In a few DIY steps and a little effort, your old stuff can look new again.

Are you as obsessed with your dog as I am? You might also appreciate my post for Homemade Bacon Cheddar Dog Biscuits and Frozen Yogurt Pupcakes or check out my Facebook page for dog lovers to read more posts about dog care.

13 Tips to Host an Unforgettable Party

March 19, 2017 by Vanessa Leave a Comment

It’s been awhile since you’ve seen all your best buds. You’d love to get together with your family. Everyone is so busy it seems. How will you ever get to see them all? Time to host a party!

When you send out an invite for a party, the fun has only just begun or should I say “work.” For the host, there are a number of things to do to prepare for an unforgettable party from choosing an entertaining theme to preparing the food. If you prepare for the party, it is less stressful than you think. Start early!

Known for throwing a pretty fun St. Patrick’s Day party (hey, that’s what the guests have said:-), I’ve done a better job each year because we remember what worked from year to year. If you’re someone who wants your party to be remembered for years to come, you must keep in mind these essential tips.

Send out an enthusiastic invitation (Facebook Events works best) at least a month in advance. Sure, many of your guests will wait until the week prior to your party to RSVP thanks to your friendly reminder post, but the point is that they’ve been thinking about going since receiving your invite. You’ll get a bigger turn out if you invite friends well in advance if they have a real chance to schedule a sitter. If you create buzz by posting the food menu or last year’s photos on Facebook the weeks prior to your event, the more people are inclined to want to come to the party!
Decorate every room of your house according to your party’s theme and don’t forget the front porch and backyard space (assuming it’s warm enough for your party.) The enthusiasm for your party never waivers if guests continue to see visual reminders of your party even if in the bathroom. Seriously! I even lead my guests downstairs to the photo booth by adding decorations to the stairwell.
Keeping with the party theme, I added a banner and St. Patrick’s Day coins to the stair’s landing area leading guests to more entertainment options in the basement.
Menu plan delicious food that most people love and do it early. Add in thematic recipes ideas too. Create a list of theme-inspired dishes and cocktails at least two weeks before the party so you can plan your shopping trip. If you walk into the store with a list, you’ll spend less money on impulsive items you think you “need.”
Don’t forget that not everyone drinks alcohol. Provide infused water or ice tea for non-drinkers. Better yet, declare that your party is BYOB and then you have no worries other than filling coolers with ice and some spare koozies. There ya go!
Be a thoughtful host. Don’t forget to shop for and prepare the “little things” that some hosts forget. Do you have enough lined trash cans in high traffic areas of your house? Extra toilet paper and hand soap stocked in the guest bathroom? Enough chairs?
Make sure every guest can eat. Don’t forget that guests with food allergies should know what they’re eating. Is your best friend gluten free? Place small upright cards near each serving plate and crockpot labeling what is in the dish. For example, you should write “Dried apricots with goat cheese, rosemary, and almonds” not “fruit with cheese.”
Serve prepped small bites or appetizers so guests can grab and go from the kitchen. Keep your guests moving! This appetizer is made of sliced English cucumber topped with horseradish dill cream cheese and smoked salmon.
The food must not run out! Serve enough food that everyone gets to eat and so you’re not stuck in the kitchen refilling dishes. Plan enough food for unexpected guests. Someone will invariably bring someone that wasn’t on the guest list. Oh, and if you don’t want everyone to stick to the kitchen area, place snacks like Chex Mix or chips around your home in decorative dishes. Put the drink station outdoors if the weather is nice.
Provide multiple spaces for entertainment. It’s not okay to simply serve food and hope people will stick around. Even if they are the talkative type, eventually people will run out of things to chat about. People love to do things together at a party! Set the scene. Play music or turn on the TV. It’s unnerving to walk into a quiet house where the host is still prepping food. Make your party a high energy fun zone. Set up outdoor games like bocce ball, ladder ball or a pinata. Place a selfie stick on the living room table. Set up a photo booth in an unused space of your home or in the garage. Don’t forget to provide a heaping basket of photo props and instructions for how to use the camera!
Set up a backdrop, some makeshift lights, and plenty of photo props and your homemade photo booth is ready. It’s as close to hiring a professional photo booth company as it’s going to get. Ha!

Your guests will entertain themselves as long as there are activities planned for them to do and set up indoors and outside of your party.
Be a social butterfly. As the host, you should make sure you talk to everyone in attendance at least once or twice. Yep, this task can be tough but no one wants to come to your party and just talk to your uncle John the whole time. Make the effort to keep conversations fun but brief. Just let whomever you’re talking to that you’ve got to “keep making the rounds.”
Don’t forget to be the “hired” photographer. As host, carry your phone in your back pocket. When the time is right, snap photos of friends during candid moments like when you caught them in the middle of a good laugh. Group selfie anyone? Friends often forget to shoot pictures at your party and regret it later.
Expect someone to bring their kids (or their dog) even when it’s an all adults party. Babysitters back out at the last minute. Be ready to provide a doggy water dish on the deck or coloring pages for small children to do. The parents will thank you!
Prepare gifts for your guests for when they arrive and take home gifts for when they leave. Fill small bags with colored candies, a travel bottle of wine or cupcakes and set the gifts near the door. Place a note nearby reminding each guest to “Take One. Thanks for coming to our party!”
Keep the fun going even after the party is over. Upload any photos from your party to social media within 24 hours and tag everyone who appears in them. People look forward to seeing themselves with friends having fun from the night before or from their moment in the photo booth. Remember that hosting a party doesn’t have to feel like work if you follow a plan and execute it well. Heck, it’s supposed to be fun so get in on the action and enjoy yourself too! What tips do you have for the ultimate shin-dig? Post your must-do ideas in the comments section below. Check out ODL Instagram for more photos from my 4th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Party.

PS. Don’t forget to invite me to your next party! I bring yummy food and a hostess gift.