Category Archives: etc.

DIY Plaid Cowl Neck Scarf

December 18, 2013

Need a last minute gift idea? I’ve been a little factory the last couple of days, making plaid cowl neck scarves like crazy. All the special ladies in my life are getting these beauties for Christmas this year. Friends, sister-in-laws, nieces and teachers are all getting one. In the last few days, I’ve made 32 of these bad boys, they’re that easy and quick to make.

I’m really excited to share this little DIY with you. It’s one of those craft/sewing projects that I’ve had on my to-do list for quite awhile now. There’s a lot of really cute flannel plaids out there, and it’s really an inexpensive, yet totally comfy fabric. I’ve figured out some simple measurements for 3 different sized scarves for you. And, I took a tone of step-by-step pictures to make this as easy to follow as possible.

Here’s how much fabric you’ll need to each scarf:

Adult – 36″ by 21″
Child – 26″ by 21″
Baby/Toddler – 24″ by 16″

I based this pattern on just a yard of fabric. You can make 2 adult sized scarves with just one yard of 42″ wide flannel plaid cut in half.

Start by folding right sides together the length of the fabric. Sew the length of the scarf with a 1/4″ seam allowance.

Turn the scarf right side out.

Lay the scarf flat and find the middle of the scarf directly opposite the seam on one end of the scarf.

Match the middle point that you found on the one end of the scarf with the seam on the other end of the scarf. You are going to sew a tube, but by not just matching the seams to each other, the scarf will have a natural twist in it.

Pin the good sides together all the way around the scarf.

As you pin, you will tuck the scarf into self.

Sew all the way around leaving a 2″ opening.

Turn the scarf right side out.

Pin the opening closed.

And then simply top stitch the opening closed. With all the folds and twists in the scarf, this small seam will be hardly noticeable. But, if you are fancy like that, go ahead and hand stitch it closed.

How simple is that? I think it would be fun to make one twice as long for an infinitely scarf that could be wrapped around your neck a couple times. That will be my next sewing adventure!

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Better to Give then Receive

December 17, 2013

I’m back to share more of the Ford Fiesta Movement with you. Last week I shared how I’m trying to find ways for my kids and family to give. This month Ford’s 100 “agents” are taking on the theme of SOCIAL ACTIVISM, and I’m taking inspiration from this theme.

I shared how I wanted to provide my kids with opportunities to give. This last week we really had some fun with this. The biggest kick was paying for the person’s food in line behind us in the McDonald’s drive thru. It ended up being a little old lady who made sure to thank us by way of the employees at the windows. The kids were so excited! It was such a simple activity, but I think my kids saw how much better it is to give then to receive.

They also found some folks to help out with their $2 bills. It’s funny how your eyes can be opened to needs around you when you make a conscience effort to look for them. Somedays, I can go about my business and not see anyone in need, when there are definitely folks out there. But, this week I was definitely more sensitive and aware. It’s good to find perspective and to see the blessings in your own life, especially when you see how hard life is some folks. It’s fun to see your kids give and realize how much better it is to give. They’ve really enjoyed this week’s activities. I think it’s really tough to raise kids in such a materialistic world. I want to raise generous, thoughtful kids.

We haven’t had a chance to take hot coffee to the homeless, but it’s on my mental list and I’ll definitely being doing it soon.

Be sure to check out some of the Ford agent videos for this month’s theme. I love this idea of a toy drive and this idea of helping out local seniors.

This is a sponsored post and I was compensated for my participation. The opinions expressed are my own.

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DIY Black Tree Garland and Stamped Wrapping Paper

December 16, 2013

If you’ve been following my pinterest boards, you know that I’m loving all that is black and white for Christmas this year.

On Friday I shared my simple Triangle Tree Watercolor, today I have a few more black tree ideas for you. Head over to Henry Happened today to see how to make this cute tree garland and stamped wrapping paper.

Do you have a theme for this year’s decor? What trendy holiday ideas are you loving?

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Triangle Tree Watercolor

December 13, 2013

Boy this has been a heck of a week. Tis the Season for lots on your plate. I’m sure you can relate. To be honest, there were a couple times this week I wanted to run away. I started the week with stomach bug and I think everything kind of went down hill from there. But, today I’m feeling a little less stressed. I took 20 minutes this morning to play with watercolor paints (Olivia painted along side me and I’m pretty impressed with her work). It was totally therapeutic and exactly what my mind needed.

While in Sweden, which seems so long ago already, I soaked up all kinds of inspiration and ideas (which is not hard to do there). One of my favorite stops in Stockholm with the Design Torget Shop. The shop has a really great concept. They pick items for everyday use from both established and unknown designers. And then the items are sold for a limited time in their 17 shops and website. Each week, their committee meets to vote on products that they want to sell. And designers can apply to have their products sold. Then those items are exclusively sold at Design Torget. Anyways, you should definitely check out their online store. I bought a couple gifts their, and I was totally inspired buy their window display that had a simple black and white triangle tree in it, hence my triangle tree paintings.

I’m not an artist, far from, but experimenting and practicing techniques really is good for the soul. I’ve changed up my little gallery wall in the living room. And I replaced my geometric heart watercolor with a Triangle Tree Watercolor and my DIY Hexagon Instagram Frame has been traded out for a simple Black Tree Art that I made. Change is nice. And these touches are not too Christmassy, I’ll enjoy them through January as well.

How are you finding ways to relieve stress during this super busy time of year? Where are you finding inspiration and what keeps your creative juices flowing? I’d love to hear from you.

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Casual in Cobalt Blue

December 11, 2013

I’ve shared before that style and fashion is not my thing. I am definitely not a fashion blogger (and the hubby is definitely not a photographer). And actually posting these pictures of myself kind of gives me hives. It’s hard to see yourself through the camera lens, I prefer my “skinny” mirror in my bedroom. I think before I had kids and my body was a different shape, I had the time and desire to put the effort into looking stylish. Now, I have some trusted faithfuls in my closet that I turn to often. They are pieces that I feel comfortable in and I can clean my house in , shop for groceries in and haul a two year old around in. But, I like to be honest and as real as possible here. So, here’s what I look like on a good day (a none yoga pant and sweatshirt day).

I love an outfit that dresses up a great t-shirt (no ironing necessary). This super comfy, made in LA t-shirt from Pickwick and Weller is my new favorite. They are making ultra soft, great fitting t’s that are normally found in trendy boutiques (that I don’t even dare walking into), but at a price totally within reach. And with lots of styles and colors to choose from, you’ll be sure to find your favorite as well. They also have men’s shirts, a truly perfect gift for hard to shop for guys! And I love a California company. Be sure to check out what they are all about, you’ll be impressed.

Colbalt Blue Margot Classic Fit T

If your struggling to find gifts for the ones you love this year, why not consider a versatile Pickwick and Weller t? And you’ll be happy to know that Pickwick and Weller is offering O+P readers 25% off any order of $50 or more (here’s your code).

This is a sponsored post and I was compensated for my participation. The opinions expressed are my own. `

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Finding Ways to Give

December 10, 2013

I’m back to share more of the Ford Fiesta Movement with you. This month Ford’s 100 “agents” are taking on the theme of SOCIAL ACTIVISM. In September, I shared what adventure looked like to me and then I was inspired to take a little solo adventure in NYC. In October, I shared how I was inspired to give Riley, my vintage trailer, a little more style. And last month I played with the idea of entertaining.

I’m looking for some opportunities to give in my local community. This time of year, my kids get sooo much, so I like to look for ways that they can actively give back and help others in need. I want them to notice that they have so much more then others, I want them to know how blessed they truly are. I have a few ideas that I’d like to try this week.

The first is inspired by this Ford Fiesta’s agent. She went through various fast food drive thrus and paid for the customer’s food in line behind her. I think my kids would get a kick out of this. I like the idea of an unseen gift giver.

The second idea I have is stolen from my Dad. He is a pastor in Arcata, CA and last week when the offering baskets were passed around, he placed envelopes in the basket for folks to take. In the envelopes he placed random amounts of $2 bills and asked the congregation to find ways to bless and help others out this week with that money. I think it would be great to give my kids five $2 bills each and have them look for opportunities to help someone in need.

And my third idea is very simple. I’d like to take hot chocolate and coffee downtown on one of these cold evenings and hand it out to the homeless. This is also an idea I stole from my family. My youngest brother, Joash, recently spent 18 months living on the streets. He said that sometimes a hot drink was all he really needed and was such a nice treat.

So, which one of these give activities do you think I should attempt with my family this week? I’d love your input. Which one do you think would have the greatest impact on the community and on my kids?

I also what to share with you that Ford Fiesta is presenting the second annual What’s Trending Tube-a-thon. The Tube-a-thon is a live-streamed holiday party featuring huge YouTube stars as well as traditional Hollywood celebrities. On Thursday, December 12 at 6pmPT/9pm ET, viewers can tune into What’s Trending for two full hours of fundraising, music, comedy, performances and lots of surprises from your favorite online stars. Online viewers can tweet along with the hashtag #Tubeathon or #FiestaMovement, and for every tweet What’s Trending and Fiesta Movement will donate $1 to Covenant House. It’s a fun and easy way to give back this holiday season.

There’s a lot of great videos this month with great ideas. I like this idea of upcycling a piece of furniture and then selling it to make a profit for a charity.

This is a sponsored post and I was compensated for my participation. The opinions expressed are my own.

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Swedish Christmas Decor

December 9, 2013

I can’t wait to share with you more of our Sweden trip over Thanksgiving. But, one of the best parts of visiting during Christmas was all the fun Christmas (Jul) decor everywhere. It was really hard not to want to buy a lot more. So, I attempted to restrain myself, and this is what I came home with.

Stars and hearts are very comment in Swedish Christmas decor (you may have noticed that before at IKEA). We made sure to find a couple thrift stores. My dad and my brother Joash are good at hunting them down. I found a few gorgeous vintage table clothes at one. Two are gifts, but I had to keep this grey one for myself.

We bought Dala horses for all the kids as a keepsake that they’ll enjoy into adulthood. I bought a more modern styled Dala horse (which I will share soon) and these adorable salt and pepper shakers.

Cute red and white mushrooms were everywhere. I asked if they had any significance and I was told that “they were just for cute”. I like that! So, needless to say, I came home with some tiny mushrooms that need to be displayed in some cute manner.

Jultompten is the Swedish Santa. As a kid, we always put cookies out for Santa and rice pudding for Jultompten on Christmas even. Unlike the American santa, he is more garden nome looking. I bought to little ceramic version of him, an all white one (being very Swedish) and a handmade one with a shiny red hat.

Every home has there windows lit with candles and lights this time of year. It’s so beautiful. I bought a simple white Swedish advent that holds 4 candles, one for every week in December.

And finally, I bought some simple “God Jul” (Merry Christmas) wrapping paper and gift tags and a few ornaments for our tree.

If you are interested in any of these items in particular, I would happily try to help you find the source.

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Cheese Sticks

December 6, 2013

It’s been years since I made these. Why, I don’t really know. They are so simple and so tasty. These Cheese Sticks are my Great Grandma Drader’s recipe. I never knew her, but her daughter, my Grandma, taught me how to make these and lot’s of other yummy treats. Making them, brings back memories of my Grandma’s kitchen and all the wonderful time that was spent there with her.

I was asked to share an original recipe that banishes boring holiday menus and instead showcases delicious grain-based dishes. So, I’m serving a tasty appetizer tray without boring store bought crackers and instead serving these yummy Cheese Sticks. The Grain Foods Foundation has a great web resource called Grains for Your Brain. Not only does the site have lots of great grain centered recipes, but there’s lots of valuable information about the benefits of having grains in your diet.

One of my favorite parts of Christmas is all the traditions. There are certain recipes that HAVE to be made this time of year. This recipe should be on the short list. It’s an easy appetizer that can be made ahead and even stored in the freezer. Served on a plate with some crisp apple slices and an assortment of yummy prosciutto and salamis, this is a crowd pleaser. These crispy on the outside, tender and cheesy on the inside bites are a nice change from all the sweet treats this time of year.

Cheese Sticks
2 cups grated sharp cheddar
4 tbsp. shortening
4 tbsp. water
1 cup flour
2 tsp. baking powder
flaky sea salt (for the tops)

Mix all ingredients together with an electric mixer. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to just less then 1/4″ thick. Cut dough into 1/2″ by 3″ strips. Top each stick with a generous sprinkling of flaky sea salt. Bake in a 400F oven on parchment lined cookie sheets for just 10 mins. or until they are light golden brown. Store in an airtight container.

This is a sponsored post and I was compensated for my participation. But, the opinions expressed here are my own.

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Fabuloos Dreams Personalized Books Giveaway

December 4, 2013

I’m back with another giveaway for all my faithful Oleander and Palm fans. If you’ve got kiddos that you’re shopping for this Christmas, then you are going to love this giveaway. I was recently introduced with this great company, Fabuloos Dreams, they specialize in making personalized books for kids. It’s such a great concept. You simply upload an image of your kiddo and some basic information, like names and ages and then they customize a story book for you. It really took me less then 10 minutes to place the order.

I ordered a pirate story for my nephew Logan for Christmas. He is the most book loving kid I know. Even as a 2 month old, he watched for the turning of the page. He also has a little pirate ship and often refers to himself as Pirate Logan, so I knew that this would be the perfect for gift for him. And the book turned out fantastic. I know he’s going to love it.

So, here’s the fun part. Fabuloos is generously giving away a personalized book, of your choice, to one lucky Oleander and Palm reader. Now that’s fabuloos! To enter, simply head over to Fabuloos Dreams, check out their great products and then come back here and leave a comment sharing which book you would pick for the kiddo in your life.

Contest will run till Friday, December 6th at midnight PST. I will announce the winner on my Facebook page.

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Family Pictures and a Minted Giveaway

December 3, 2013

I’m so excited to share this giveaway with you. If you haven’t ordered your Christmas cards yet, or if you just want better ones, then this is the giveaway for you. I’m hosting a $125 giveaway to Minted. How great is that?

I’ve long been a fan of Minted’s gorgeous products, you’ve seen them many times at my parties. And their huge array of fabulous cards can’t be beat. This year we had family pictures taken by a local professional photographer for the very first time, Makenzie Photography. So, I’m excited to pick out cards this year.

Minted has a lot of fun, unique options this year. They have gorgeous foiled pressed cards with metallic gold and silver foil details. They also have cute mini cards and postcard options and I love their uniquely shaped ornament cards. Here’s some of my favorites.

Snowflake Ornament

Joy Foil-Pressed Card

Merry Holly Ornament

Type Frost Foil-Pressed Card

Makenzie did an amazing job capturing our family. I am so impressed with her work. She did so well with 2 year sassy Olivia as well. You can also find her on Facebook. Here’s a few more of my favorites.

To enter to win $125 to Minted, simply head over to their site, check out their fabulous cards and then come back here and leave a comment sharing which cards you would love for this year’s Christmas card.

Contest will run till Friday, December 6th at midnight PST. I will announce the winner on my Facebook page.