I had so much fun bringing you February Finds! 26 days of things I love! You can check out each and every one of them here.
I have a couple more "teaser" posts for my new series that I am starting on Monday that will post throughout the weekend. Other wise I am taking the weekend OFF from blogging!
See you on Monday for some fun!
Friday, February 27, 2009
Hooked On: Antiquing!
I just love a good "antiquing" session... blissfully wandering with no real expectations beyond the unexpected. But the weather... and my two kids, have tended to make these mindless perusing impossible in the years past! I do however have a sitter and some free time lined up with my husband tomorrow just for this purpose! So in the interest of getting a head start... here's some virtual antiquing for us all:
(ebay) Love this! I wouldn't change a thing! It would be perfect for storing the kids' books and toys in the living room!
(ebay) I would love this as a potting table for the spring!
(ebay) Wouldn't this be so fun painted bright white or yellow?
You just never know what you will find! Wish me luck tomorrow!
~~~
For more of what the internet is hooked on... check out Hooked on Houses today!
(ebay) Love this! I wouldn't change a thing! It would be perfect for storing the kids' books and toys in the living room!
(ebay) I would love this as a potting table for the spring!
(ebay) Wouldn't this be so fun painted bright white or yellow?
You just never know what you will find! Wish me luck tomorrow!
~~~
For more of what the internet is hooked on... check out Hooked on Houses today!
Fashion Friday... snakeskin flats!
I fell in love with these snakeskin flats straight away when I found them on piperlime yesterday! I just love a dash of orange... and snakeskin accessories are HOT, HOT, HOT for spring and summer.
Dolce Vita Sally - Orange snake printed leather, $69.99 (was $100)
Today was one of those days that while there is still a chill in the air you can also feel the smallest tinge of spring - and for that I am so thankful! Here's an outfit for a gorgeous spring day!
spring in the air! - by Jill GG on Polyvore.com
Dolce Vita Sally - Orange snake printed leather, $69.99 (was $100)
Today was one of those days that while there is still a chill in the air you can also feel the smallest tinge of spring - and for that I am so thankful! Here's an outfit for a gorgeous spring day!
spring in the air! - by Jill GG on Polyvore.com
Ways to create intentions with Jess from Make Under My Lif!
Jess (of Make Under My Life) and I have essentially swapped interviews for each other's blogs. And what fun it has been! Jess and I "met" weeks ago when I discovered her amazing jewelry line (Jess LC) and her purposeful blog and featured them here as one of my February Finds. I often find myself attracted to entrepreneurial spirits, so it was no surprise that we "clicked" over email. Plus, we are both midwesterners! I'm from Chicago, living in Michigan and Jess is from Michigan, living in Chicago!
Here Jess outlines some really great tips on creating an intention filled life. I just love each and every tip and can't wait to start implementing some of them in my life! Here is her insight:
~~~
Over the past three years, I have become increasingly fascinated with the ability to create intentions for my life and to watch those intentions become reality. I use the word intention rather than goal or resolution because, frankly, if I attach those last two terms on my wishes, my inner perfectionist becomes paralyzed with a fear of failure.
Throughout my journey to design a life with intention (which I talk about daily in my blog, MakeunderMyLife.com), I have found several helpful ways to determine what my intentions are.
Write a letter about and to your future self
This idea is great to start on New Years or your birthday, but it can be done any day of the year. Simply sit down in a quiet place and write a description of who you want to be in one year. You can describe anything you like about your "future self"- what you look like, what you are wearing, what activities you have done over the course of the year, who you are friends with, what job you have, or even what kind of relationship you are in. One year from now, count how many statements you made actually came true. The first year I did this I completed a whopping 83% of my statements, although I initially felt I was capable of only 25%.
Make a collage of intentions
This is easy to do with magazine clippings or on Polyvore (for all those design junkies). Simply find pictures of things that you would like to include in your life. Then glance at it daily. You might find that you are attracted to the activities and items you have on your board throughout your life. And it also serves as a helpful decision making guide.
Create a mantra
A catchphrase or mantra is especially helpful when you are trying to makeunder articles of clothing or mountains of 'stuff.' Envision what you want your wardrobe or room to look like. Then come up with a short sentence that captures the essence of what you want your things to reflect. When it comes to actually sorting through what stays and what goes, repeat the mantra while looking at each item. If a shirt or lamp fits your very high standards and criteria, then you keep it. If it falls short of your mantra, it gets passed on to someone else who can use it. One friend used the phrase "effortlessly chic" to describe her wardrobe, and we threw out all the things that did not qualify. I used the phrase WWJD (What Would Jennifer [Anniston] Do?) for my closet. Lets just say any clothes with sequins or ruffles were goners.
Share an Intention
When you find you have a difficult change you want to make in your life, it is often easier to do with someone else. Find a friend who has the same intention and agree to rely on one another for support. When you have the urge to stray from the intention, talk with your buddy and see if they can help you maintain the change you want to make. When I tried a three week vegan cleanse, my friend Kaitlyn joined me. Just knowing she was doing the same thing helped me curb (some) urges.
Hopefully these ideas are helpful for determining what your intentions are. Remember that you cannot "fail" an intention, it is simply a direction.
~~~
Thank you so much Jess for this amazing insight!
Thursday, February 26, 2009
February Finds... 26!
This spring I am so craving clutches. Everywhere I turn I want to buy this one or that one! Maybe because they are so much less money than handbags...
This one I am totally loving. Blue is quickly becoming a favorite of mine, not sure exactly why - but it could just be the ruffles on this little cutie pulling me in! Plus, right now is is marked down to $29.99 (from $48.00). Sweet!
Chinese Laundry Ruffle Clutch - Navy
This one I am totally loving. Blue is quickly becoming a favorite of mine, not sure exactly why - but it could just be the ruffles on this little cutie pulling me in! Plus, right now is is marked down to $29.99 (from $48.00). Sweet!
Chinese Laundry Ruffle Clutch - Navy
rainbow inspiration...
Thursdays are for rainbows. I find by this time in the week I need a little rainbow sunshine in my life... Today I bring you scads of glorious flats all from Piperlime
Flats this season are fun, sassy and most of all colorful! A brightly colored flat can act as a neutral for the most part - so be daring! Here are a couple of favorites of mine...
walk this way... - by Jill GG on Polyvore.com
Flats this season are fun, sassy and most of all colorful! A brightly colored flat can act as a neutral for the most part - so be daring! Here are a couple of favorites of mine...
walk this way... - by Jill GG on Polyvore.com
designing my life...
Jess from the fabulous make under my life is interviewing me today! Please stop by there to check out the interview and Jess's fab blog!
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
february Finds... 25!
I love me some uggs. I wear them, well, probably too much these days. But it's cold and wet and cold! Enter... these little guys. Ugg wellies? I heart these. No more suede stains from snow and salt! It's the best of all weather boot wear!
work it wednesday!
Today I am going to mix things up a bit here for work it wednesday. A reader, my hairstylist and friend of mine, Summer (hi Summer!) recently asked if I could work on some outfit ideas for the more conservative women out there. Summer wants to take her mom spring shopping for some updated looks, but wants to avoid uber trendy stylings for her mom - and rightly so.
When shopping for items that don't fall in the trendy category (which we outlined a bit yesterday) but still on a budget the mall is a great place to start - just don't fall into the trap of buying what is "screaming" to you in the displays and windows. Dig deeper to find classic and conservative pieces that will stand the test of time.
conservative. - by Jill GG on Polyvore.com
My tips (as highlighted above) for finding classic and conservative pieces are as follows:
1. Find wardrobe pieces that flatter the waist (not hips) and the neckline. Wide leg pants are a great way to flatter your waist - make sure you choose a medium weight denim or woven material for the optimum figure-flattery. Necklines that are boat, scoop, or a slight v all highlight the shoulders and the top of the decollete - and no lower.
2. Choose form fitting items. Although drapey and, conversely, tight clothing may be trendy or "what the kids are wearing" - it doesn't mean it is appropriate for all body types or styles. Choosing a tee or cardigan (like pictured) that hints at the curves of the body but doesn't necessarily show them works well for the conservative set.
3. Let your personal style and the trends (as you feel comfortable) show through in the accessories you choose. This is key: up-to-date shoes, handbags, earrings, bangles and belts are all great ways to spice up the classics. These items can give your outfits a youthful appeal while still being appropriate.
4. Find shoes that are practical but beautiful. You can do anything in a kitten-heel or a flat. Walk the dog, grocery shop, carpool, lunch or dinner dates. Use the versatility of these styles to your advantage!
5. Always have an absolutely fabulous dress waiting in the wings. This is pretty much a given for no matter what your style. But a flirty and feminine dress that you absolutely love will pay you dividends. Always.
I hope these tips come in handy Summer - and of course to all my readers!
When shopping for items that don't fall in the trendy category (which we outlined a bit yesterday) but still on a budget the mall is a great place to start - just don't fall into the trap of buying what is "screaming" to you in the displays and windows. Dig deeper to find classic and conservative pieces that will stand the test of time.
conservative. - by Jill GG on Polyvore.com
My tips (as highlighted above) for finding classic and conservative pieces are as follows:
1. Find wardrobe pieces that flatter the waist (not hips) and the neckline. Wide leg pants are a great way to flatter your waist - make sure you choose a medium weight denim or woven material for the optimum figure-flattery. Necklines that are boat, scoop, or a slight v all highlight the shoulders and the top of the decollete - and no lower.
2. Choose form fitting items. Although drapey and, conversely, tight clothing may be trendy or "what the kids are wearing" - it doesn't mean it is appropriate for all body types or styles. Choosing a tee or cardigan (like pictured) that hints at the curves of the body but doesn't necessarily show them works well for the conservative set.
3. Let your personal style and the trends (as you feel comfortable) show through in the accessories you choose. This is key: up-to-date shoes, handbags, earrings, bangles and belts are all great ways to spice up the classics. These items can give your outfits a youthful appeal while still being appropriate.
4. Find shoes that are practical but beautiful. You can do anything in a kitten-heel or a flat. Walk the dog, grocery shop, carpool, lunch or dinner dates. Use the versatility of these styles to your advantage!
5. Always have an absolutely fabulous dress waiting in the wings. This is pretty much a given for no matter what your style. But a flirty and feminine dress that you absolutely love will pay you dividends. Always.
I hope these tips come in handy Summer - and of course to all my readers!
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
February Finds... 24!
With spring... and "leg" season, just around the corner, I don't know about you - but I need some color on my skin!
I am always so hesitant to use self tanners, because I see what they have done to other people (streaks, orange skin, smell, etc) - but I saw this, Aveeno Continuous Radiance, highly rated in a magazine last spring and decided to give it a try! I had a business trip in April to Florida where I would be baring legs and arms and didn't want to scare people away with my ghost like skin!
I started using it daily a week before I left... and I was so impressed that just like it promised, my skin slowly and subtly looked more bronzed (er, healthy)! At about $8 - it was one of the cheaper options at the store as well! I also liked that it came in two shades for greater personalization. (pale and paler... well, not really, but you get the idea!)
Do you use self-tanners? Bronzers? Which is your favorite?
I am always so hesitant to use self tanners, because I see what they have done to other people (streaks, orange skin, smell, etc) - but I saw this, Aveeno Continuous Radiance, highly rated in a magazine last spring and decided to give it a try! I had a business trip in April to Florida where I would be baring legs and arms and didn't want to scare people away with my ghost like skin!
I started using it daily a week before I left... and I was so impressed that just like it promised, my skin slowly and subtly looked more bronzed (er, healthy)! At about $8 - it was one of the cheaper options at the store as well! I also liked that it came in two shades for greater personalization. (pale and paler... well, not really, but you get the idea!)
Do you use self-tanners? Bronzers? Which is your favorite?
speaking of classics...
I must, just MUST buy a white blazer/jacket this spring. This one from JCrew is fabulous... I love the unique, yet timeless, cut. Perhaps a bit more than I would like to spend at $98 (from $148)... but still. It's the best one I have found so far...
Don't you just love the classic lines of the jacket juxtaposed to the trendy distressed denim it is paired with? I have a one track mind today...
trend theory...
for the most part, my closet is full of what are for the most part solid classics. blazers in black, brown and khaki. high end denim in straight, boot and wide leg cuts. sweaters in various styles made of quality materials in brown, black and grey. these staples are essential for all wardrobes and often I find that the best of my classics stand the test of time. when you have a blazer that still "works" five years later, you know you made a great purchase to start.
but of course there has to be some fun in there some where right? for me, that is when the trends enter... I prefer to buy trendy items tops, accessories, funky bottoms and on occasion, a trendy shoe - all on the cheap. this is my trend theory. that's why places like forever 21, old navy, etc (mall stores!) are my go-to places to shop!
so use stores that are on the trendy side to add spice to your wardrobe on a dime.
take these jeans for instance: I've been eyeing a similar pair in the "pricey" range... but at $24.95, I think I'll be taking this trend home on the cheap first.
How do you balance trend and classic in your wardrobe?
but of course there has to be some fun in there some where right? for me, that is when the trends enter... I prefer to buy trendy items tops, accessories, funky bottoms and on occasion, a trendy shoe - all on the cheap. this is my trend theory. that's why places like forever 21, old navy, etc (mall stores!) are my go-to places to shop!
so use stores that are on the trendy side to add spice to your wardrobe on a dime.
take these jeans for instance: I've been eyeing a similar pair in the "pricey" range... but at $24.95, I think I'll be taking this trend home on the cheap first.
How do you balance trend and classic in your wardrobe?
Monday, February 23, 2009
9 years ago...
9 years ago today I met my husband on a blind date. we fell in love over tapas and sangria and many other adventures.
who could have ever imagined the amazing life and family we would build together... 9 years ago?
dear, i love you dear.
who could have ever imagined the amazing life and family we would build together... 9 years ago?
dear, i love you dear.
February Finds... 23!
Whenever I find a new etsy seller that I just love, I quickly add them to my favorites. The internet is full of so many bunny trails, it is virtually impossible for me to even remember how or why I happen upon them.
But when I found this seller. I knew I happened upon something special. I mean really. How simply adorable is this?
My daughter is quickly outgrowing her "baby" furniture... I just think this will be perfect in her "big girl" room this fall! Just. love.
But when I found this seller. I knew I happened upon something special. I mean really. How simply adorable is this?
My daughter is quickly outgrowing her "baby" furniture... I just think this will be perfect in her "big girl" room this fall! Just. love.
Do you coupon?
If you are thinking I've gone to the "dark side"... you might just be right. But seriously girls. I coupon. I know, I hate to admit it even because for years I said "gah! coupons! what a waste of time and energy! those people are crazy!"
But now? Now I am addicted... I won't walk into a drug or grocery store without coupons. So yes, the image is a little wacky, me standing in the cereal isle in designer jeans fishing around for the $1 coupon I "swear that I just saw..." in my coupon envelope. But the truth in it, is that with coupons and the weekly local sales I am saving about 25% - 35% a week on groceries (more money for clothes, or shoes, or lamps!!!!) - so it is SO worth it!
Although I recently found The Grocery Game and it is a WAY easier way to organize my coupons and my shopping for groceries and household items. If you are interested in finding out more, visit the site, it seems confusing at first... but once you get the hang of it you won't regret it! You can also use my email as a reference code... if you would be so kind (jill_mariegott (at) hotmail (dot) com)
~~~
One note: I've got NO monday food for you all today... I don't even know what I am eating this week yet (so behind the game, I know!)... usually I am all on the spot with food inspiration. Come back next week... I'll be all over it. Although on a random note, I am just completely hooked on taco salads these days... any type of food that would go on a taco I just throw on salad greens, then I mix some salsa with ranch dressing... voila! My current fav toppings: avocado, cheese, black beans and crunched up tortilla chips.
But now? Now I am addicted... I won't walk into a drug or grocery store without coupons. So yes, the image is a little wacky, me standing in the cereal isle in designer jeans fishing around for the $1 coupon I "swear that I just saw..." in my coupon envelope. But the truth in it, is that with coupons and the weekly local sales I am saving about 25% - 35% a week on groceries (more money for clothes, or shoes, or lamps!!!!) - so it is SO worth it!
Although I recently found The Grocery Game and it is a WAY easier way to organize my coupons and my shopping for groceries and household items. If you are interested in finding out more, visit the site, it seems confusing at first... but once you get the hang of it you won't regret it! You can also use my email as a reference code... if you would be so kind (jill_mariegott (at) hotmail (dot) com)
~~~
One note: I've got NO monday food for you all today... I don't even know what I am eating this week yet (so behind the game, I know!)... usually I am all on the spot with food inspiration. Come back next week... I'll be all over it. Although on a random note, I am just completely hooked on taco salads these days... any type of food that would go on a taco I just throw on salad greens, then I mix some salsa with ranch dressing... voila! My current fav toppings: avocado, cheese, black beans and crunched up tortilla chips.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
make your voice heard!!!
I just added a poll to the very top of the left column...
PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE my dear readers:
If you could take just a second to respond for me! The growth of this blog and it's readers is so humbling and amazing to me. I love each of you dearly and I am so very thankful that you make this blog a part of your day!
I'm not only curious about what keeps you coming back here daily... but what will continue to keep you coming back, what will inspire you and what will make your heart sing.
Thanks for taking the time! hugs/kisses.
jill
PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE my dear readers:
If you could take just a second to respond for me! The growth of this blog and it's readers is so humbling and amazing to me. I love each of you dearly and I am so very thankful that you make this blog a part of your day!
I'm not only curious about what keeps you coming back here daily... but what will continue to keep you coming back, what will inspire you and what will make your heart sing.
Thanks for taking the time! hugs/kisses.
jill
count down... 8 days.
I am SO excited about a new project I have in the works for this blog. I've been planning it for a while and I think it will be SUPER fun. I hope all my readers will get hooked on the fun as well (and maybe join in too)! It involves some fashion and some rock and roll. Here's a clue:
count down... 8 days. - by Jill GG on Polyvore.com
So make sure you are here MARCH 2, 2009 for it's debut! I'll have more teasers throughout the week as well...
count down... 8 days. - by Jill GG on Polyvore.com
So make sure you are here MARCH 2, 2009 for it's debut! I'll have more teasers throughout the week as well...
Saturday, February 21, 2009
February Finds... 21!
The Hayden-Harnett
spring/summer 2009 line is of course TO.DIE.FOR. I just love it all, especially the following pieces that have (as always) fabulous color choice and unique and inspiring design. Check out the whole line (Hayden-Harnett Handbags
) in the meantime, these are a couple of my favorites:
Staci Crossbody, Violet Crinkle Patent, $258
There is nothing better than finding "the" perfect shade of pink. This magenta hue is sophisticated and chic without being frilly or silly. And I love the repeating "coin purse" theme. In addition, this cross-shoulder bag proves that the trend is back - like it or not.
Clarice Train Case, Les Grands Pavots Bleu, $278
How can you not think spring when you see this bag? I love the blue with orange... the varied hues make it surprisingly versatile.
Lolita Ruffle Bag, Moonbeam, $348
Staci Crossbody, Violet Crinkle Patent, $258
There is nothing better than finding "the" perfect shade of pink. This magenta hue is sophisticated and chic without being frilly or silly. And I love the repeating "coin purse" theme. In addition, this cross-shoulder bag proves that the trend is back - like it or not.
Clarice Train Case, Les Grands Pavots Bleu, $278
How can you not think spring when you see this bag? I love the blue with orange... the varied hues make it surprisingly versatile.
Lolita Ruffle Bag, Moonbeam, $348
Ruffles are here and now. And really, I couldn't love them more. Especially as they are executed on this adorable shoulder bag. Fun, fun!
Friday, February 20, 2009
Fashion Friday... let it rain!
Fashion Friday again ladies and gentlemen... (do gentlemen read me? If so, speak up! I better start doing some male outfits soon!) Today's outfit is inspired by this umbrella that I am just so in love with:
Likely because I just want spring to arrive SO badly. If it were raining (instead of snowing...) that would mean that temps are on the rise!
Today's outfit is multi-layered for unexpected spring days and super casual, yet super chic. Enjoy... hopefully there is a chance of rain near you!
let it rain - by Jill GG on Polyvore.com
Likely because I just want spring to arrive SO badly. If it were raining (instead of snowing...) that would mean that temps are on the rise!
Today's outfit is multi-layered for unexpected spring days and super casual, yet super chic. Enjoy... hopefully there is a chance of rain near you!
let it rain - by Jill GG on Polyvore.com
Thursday, February 19, 2009
February Finds... 19!
My 18 month old daughter is obsessed with hats... any kind or any thing that will make a hat will be on her head! I found these adorable hats that would likely suit her fancy just fine... how sweet are these?
Thursdays are for rainbows...
Today's rainbow is painted with cheap thrills from none other than Old Navy! Here are 15 items for under $15 that are SURE to add some color and zest to your spring wardrobe!
rainbows - 15 for under $15 - by Jill GG on Polyvore.com
Shop new arrivals at oldnavy.com
rainbows - 15 for under $15 - by Jill GG on Polyvore.com
Shop new arrivals at oldnavy.com
Guest Post: My Husband Andrew!
This is my husband's second guest post and I am so excited to have him back! If you missed his first post... here it is.
Today he is giving you internets a lesson on how to make lattes for less than 50 cents a serving. And I wouldn't believe how good they are for so cheap either - except lucky me gets to drink one of these amazing concoctions every morning hand made by him!
This also kicks off the first in what will be a sporadic series called "this is how we do it."
~~~
It’s a distant memory now…February 10th, sunny skies, 62 glorious degrees, snow melting in waterfall down the driveway. I’m thinking Cuervo Margaritas, chips and salsa verde and that sweet smell of fake coco-nutty sun tan lotion. Not so fast Mr. I-wear-shorts-when-it-gets-above-60-degrees. Michigan smacked me in the face again last week and it’s still battering me about the neck, cheeks, ears and toes.
What better to do when the cold weather and crappy economy are tag teaming your sanity? Make cheap Lattes of course!
OK, I must admit, my wife always had me running to the local Starbucks on Saturday mornings to pick her up a $4.00 Grande Non-Fat Latte with Sugar-Free Vanilla and she always seemed so pleased and smug about drinking it slowly over the next 4 hours.
A couple weeks ago I was digging through one of our long forgotten top shelves in the kitchen and found this little gadget that looked like a teenie weenie coffee pot. It’s called a macchinetta and you can get one for around $30 (the
Bialetti 6-c. Moka Express Stovetop Espresso Maker, Silver
is a nice one from Starbucks that is a 6 cup model... ours is a single cup model). I did a little research and thought it was high time I take some personal credit for that Saturday smugness that Starbuck’s had previously laid claim to.
It turns out this little Italian invented wonder makes awesome espresso. I’ve found a way to put my wife on cloud 9 for less than 50 cents per serving. Husbands, listen up:
Step 1: Get familiar with the parts.
There’s a bottom reservoir with a removable section where the coffee grounds are placed, and an upper assembly that consists of a “filter”, gasket and a top chamber that the finished espresso eventually fills up.
Step 2: Add water to the lower chamber (up to the little steam release valve) and mound the coffee grounds in a nice plump hill. No tamping or packing needed.
Step 3: Pour 6-8 oz of low fat milk in a saucepan. Low fat milk froths better than the real good stuff. If you don’t have any toddlers, chances are you’re rockin' the watery stuff anyway.
Step 4: Apply high heat to both saucepan of milk and prepped Macchinetta. Whisk milk constantly and be careful not to boil. Froth as much or as little as desired. For my wife, the more froth, the better. Beware, more froth means more insulation for this lava like liquid. It will stay hot under that foam so drink with caution. This heating process will take 2-3 minutes depending on the volumes you’re dealing with.
Step 5: Listen for the hiss of the Macchinetta. Once it hisses, it running close to empty. Most of the water has rapidly boiled and escaped to the area of lowest pressure; the top chamber. In the process it’s made its way through the coffee grounds and extracted awesome flavor and more importantly, high doses of caffeine. If you like some sweetness in the drink, now’s the time to add some sugar, or flavored syrup to your mug.
Step 6: Pour the espresso in the mug, pour the frothed milk over the espresso and enjoy.
Cost Per Serving after purchase of Macchinetta: - $0.47
Coffee - $0.21
Milk - $0.24
Sugar – $0.02
Lip Smacking, Smug Faced Goodness – Priceless
Andrew
~~~
This post is part of Hooked on Houses' "Hooked On..." Friday - check it out for more of what the internet is "hooked" on this week@
Today he is giving you internets a lesson on how to make lattes for less than 50 cents a serving. And I wouldn't believe how good they are for so cheap either - except lucky me gets to drink one of these amazing concoctions every morning hand made by him!
This also kicks off the first in what will be a sporadic series called "this is how we do it."
~~~
It’s a distant memory now…February 10th, sunny skies, 62 glorious degrees, snow melting in waterfall down the driveway. I’m thinking Cuervo Margaritas, chips and salsa verde and that sweet smell of fake coco-nutty sun tan lotion. Not so fast Mr. I-wear-shorts-when-it-gets-above-60-degrees. Michigan smacked me in the face again last week and it’s still battering me about the neck, cheeks, ears and toes.
What better to do when the cold weather and crappy economy are tag teaming your sanity? Make cheap Lattes of course!
OK, I must admit, my wife always had me running to the local Starbucks on Saturday mornings to pick her up a $4.00 Grande Non-Fat Latte with Sugar-Free Vanilla and she always seemed so pleased and smug about drinking it slowly over the next 4 hours.
A couple weeks ago I was digging through one of our long forgotten top shelves in the kitchen and found this little gadget that looked like a teenie weenie coffee pot. It’s called a macchinetta and you can get one for around $30 (the
Bialetti 6-c. Moka Express Stovetop Espresso Maker, Silver
It turns out this little Italian invented wonder makes awesome espresso. I’ve found a way to put my wife on cloud 9 for less than 50 cents per serving. Husbands, listen up:
Step 1: Get familiar with the parts.
There’s a bottom reservoir with a removable section where the coffee grounds are placed, and an upper assembly that consists of a “filter”, gasket and a top chamber that the finished espresso eventually fills up.
Step 2: Add water to the lower chamber (up to the little steam release valve) and mound the coffee grounds in a nice plump hill. No tamping or packing needed.
Step 3: Pour 6-8 oz of low fat milk in a saucepan. Low fat milk froths better than the real good stuff. If you don’t have any toddlers, chances are you’re rockin' the watery stuff anyway.
Step 4: Apply high heat to both saucepan of milk and prepped Macchinetta. Whisk milk constantly and be careful not to boil. Froth as much or as little as desired. For my wife, the more froth, the better. Beware, more froth means more insulation for this lava like liquid. It will stay hot under that foam so drink with caution. This heating process will take 2-3 minutes depending on the volumes you’re dealing with.
Step 5: Listen for the hiss of the Macchinetta. Once it hisses, it running close to empty. Most of the water has rapidly boiled and escaped to the area of lowest pressure; the top chamber. In the process it’s made its way through the coffee grounds and extracted awesome flavor and more importantly, high doses of caffeine. If you like some sweetness in the drink, now’s the time to add some sugar, or flavored syrup to your mug.
Step 6: Pour the espresso in the mug, pour the frothed milk over the espresso and enjoy.
Cost Per Serving after purchase of Macchinetta: - $0.47
Coffee - $0.21
Milk - $0.24
Sugar – $0.02
Lip Smacking, Smug Faced Goodness – Priceless
Andrew
~~~
This post is part of Hooked on Houses' "Hooked On..." Friday - check it out for more of what the internet is "hooked" on this week@
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
heads up!
My husband is working on yet another brilliant guest post for tomorrow... it will be under the category "this is how we do it." - yes an homage to Montel Jordan's hit circa 1995 - because growing up in Chicago, I have a bit of hip-hop in my blood. It's just there.
But, most importantly, "this is how we do it." is a peek into how we roll in our house. Tips and tricks on how we live the good life for less.
You won't want to miss it!
But, most importantly, "this is how we do it." is a peek into how we roll in our house. Tips and tricks on how we live the good life for less.
You won't want to miss it!
February Finds... 18!
Today's "find" is one of the most favorite books in our household. This book provides hours of enjoyment for parents and kids and is a spectacular coffee table book for any household. It's highly educational, with a bit of quirkiness mixed in. Who doesn't love some quirkiness now and then?!?!
It is the Firefly Visual Dictionary. I bought this at Restoration Hardware YEARS ago... it looks like Barnes and Noble only has used copies. Although a used copy wouldn't be such a bad investment seeing as our book is practically torn to shreds it is used so much.
This book contains visual diagrams and descriptions for everything from a human body, to the solar system, to how an airport is laid out to the parts and workings of musical instruments. It is a great learning tool for exploring children and parents!
It is the Firefly Visual Dictionary. I bought this at Restoration Hardware YEARS ago... it looks like Barnes and Noble only has used copies. Although a used copy wouldn't be such a bad investment seeing as our book is practically torn to shreds it is used so much.
This book contains visual diagrams and descriptions for everything from a human body, to the solar system, to how an airport is laid out to the parts and workings of musical instruments. It is a great learning tool for exploring children and parents!
work it wednesday!
Hey ladies... it's that time again! Work it Wednesday - where I choose one wardrobe piece and highlight how to "work it" in three different ways. This week I am highlighting some super cool peacock earrings!
So would you rock the peacock earring? Chirp in below...
I have seen these at a couple of online boutiques and this past weekend saw them in "real life" and fell. in. love. They just scream fun and whimsy and are super trendy right now. Trendy isn't always bad. When used in moderation it can take the classics in your closet and instantly make them up-to-the-minute chic!
peacock earrings - by Jill GG on Polyvore.com
peacock earrings - by Jill GG on Polyvore.com
So would you rock the peacock earring? Chirp in below...
shopping list!
After yesterday's brainstorming session, I have narrowed down the items I would really like to invest in for the living room:
living room items - by Jill GG on Polyvore.com
Now my challenge is to find these items (or ones like them) for super inexpensive - the first place I will try is antique and craigslist! Wish me luck... I'll keep you posted.
living room items - by Jill GG on Polyvore.com
Now my challenge is to find these items (or ones like them) for super inexpensive - the first place I will try is antique and craigslist! Wish me luck... I'll keep you posted.
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