Friday Favorites

Happy Friday! This has been a FULL week. I also have to admit...I haven't been the best at taking pictures. There is so much life to live. That sometimes, snapping a pic, is too much! So I may have stolen a few...from Facebook. :)

No matter what, I've enjoyed this week. Lots of family time. Lots of smiles, laughs, and celebrating. I don't think, you could ask for anything else! Let's get started with this week's Friday Favorites!

 1. September Girls' Night. We barely snuck this one in. But I'm so glad we did. I truly enjoy, spending time with my family. And a monthly Girls' Night? You can't go wrong with that!

We had a few new faces. And a few less. But it was a fun night. I'm so glad, my sister could make it. I don't think many, knew her before. And Jeannette, seemed to really enjoy herself.

It's just a fun night, to get together. Have fun. Play a few games. Eat. And laugh. A LOT! It's just a different environment, from our usual. No one has to worry about hungry or tired kiddos. Hosting a party. Or anything like that. It's just time for fun.

I'd been dropping hints on Facebook...for well over a year. Trying to get some of us together. A Recipe Club. Supper Club. Let's just Get Together Club. My friends and I, used to do this all the time! ALL. THE. TIME!!! Sometimes, it was nothing more than meeting at Starbucks. Mostly it was time for my girlfriends to get away from their hubbys and kiddos. And for me? I needed a break from the hospital.

So I was very glad, when my cousin organized all the shenanigans for us. We've met 3 months in a row. And each time has been a little different. Different faces come every time. It's just a nice night out. My only complaint this month...I lost my ID. And couldn't watch the Karaoke Shenanigans. Oh well...

 2. Yummy Burgers. On Friday Night. AKA Girls' Night. I got the yummiest burger. For anyone that knows me, knows that burgers have a soft spot in my heart. Also, I'm always a little skeptical, about trying a new restaurant. And who can screw up a burger?

Anyway, I got a guacamole burger. Two of my favorites...rolled into one. Bonus, it came with bacon. What? Ya, it was a nice little treat. And honestly, I'm sorta anxious to go again. You know, to get another. :)

From the group, they said the food was really good. My Mom got enchiladas. My sister got some sort of burrito. But my burger, I truly think it was the winner. My sister was still talking about it on Sunday.

 3. Saturday Morning Shenanigans. I LOVE Saturday mornings! We get to hang out with our Growers' Market family. And although the weather was overcast. With rain and thunder threatening. ALL. MORNING. LONG! I just enjoy being at the Market.

The little guy on the swing, is our Market Neighbor. The sweetest little guy! His momma made that swing. She make the most amazing wooden toys and cutting boards. And all the kiddos know, to come to this tree. To play on the swing.

My little buddy here, was the sunshine of our day. It sprinkled on and off all morning. Until the big storm hit around 10AM. This guy, just kept on swinging. Smiling away. Waving to me, from across the sidewalk. What am I going to do, when the Market ends?

 4. Smurf Birthday Party. After we left the Market early, on Saturday...we headed to JoAnns. I know! But we were in the area. And had about an hour to waste...before my cousins' Smurf Birthday party.

It was the cutest Birthday party! All the food was so yummy. Those cupcakes...yum! I wonder where they got them. The company was great. It was just a really nice way to spend our afternoon.

I got quite a few questions on Inst. And I don't really have any answers. My cousin planned this party, for her girls. And I'm not sure where she got her decorations. Or how she made a lot of the stuff. But it was super cute! Happy Birthday Amorae and Myla!

 5. Sunday Family Time. We had so much planned on Sunday. And we were exhausted. I think in the end, my Mom and I planned to go to church and breakfast with my sister. But our plans changed. We still went to church. And had a yummy breakfast with my sister. But we also went to the graveyard. And to my cousin's fundraiser.

Basically, I think my Mom just toughed it out. Because my Grandma was going to be there. And I know my Momma was hurting on Sunday. But it was so nice to see my Grandma. During the season, we are so busy. And unfortunately, visiting my Grandma...falls a little off of our radar.

But Sunday was a fun day. I got to chat with my cousins. And a good friend. Got to get lots of time, with her littles. Which is ALWAYS a bonus! And we got to support a good cause.

 6. Vet Time. After our weekend shenanigans, we went home. To our furry pals. Bathed them. And prepped them both, for a day at the vet. Ugh! It's so hard to send them away...

Belle had to have anesthesia. To clean her teeth. And Sweetheart was going for a Comprehensive Exam. If you have a dog, I'd totally recommend getting the Banfield plan. After the first visit, it pays for itself. 

What I like about them is, they assign you one vet. You know how you have a doctor? They get a vet. So all of your scheduled appointments, are with that vet. You get to know them. So does your dog. And they get to know you and your furry friend. 

I also enjoy, that they take care of everything! EVERYTHING!!! I set up my account, to have the payment taken out monthly. The staff schedules appointments. Sends me reminders. Calls before the appointment. To make sure we know what is going on. And if we have to prep our girls. After the appointment, they call for about 3 days. To check on your pet.

It is awesome. If you follow on Inst, you saw how excited our dogs were, to go to the vet. They LOVE it! We dropped them off at 7:30AM. By 9AM, they called to let me know Sweetheart had an ear infection. And Belle was recovering. We picked them up by 2PM. 

 7. Recovery Time. Tuesday was all about recovery. In our house. Monday evening was full of fun. Sweetheart wouldn't take an oral med at the vet. So I had to give it to her. There may have been 5 treats involved...but she finally took it!

Belle's little leg, was bleeding. So they tied it a little tighter. And told me to take off the bandage, before bed. She was not allowing it. It was like her badge of courage. And she was so gas-y all night long! Pretty miserable. Poor babe. We cuddled the night away.

So Tuesday morning, I was trying to get her band aid off. She was playing dead. And Sweetheart wouldn't leave my Mom's side. I think we spend the entire morning, working on crafts. Right there...on the couch. With these two connected to us!

 8. Tuesday Night Dinner. Because we were swamped on Tuesday. Trying to catch up on orders...I decided to take my Mom out to dinner. At Golden Pride. My Mom LOVES their fried chicken. The ribs are ALWAYS amazing!

It had been a rough day at home. I was trying to finish an order, make some stuff for our stash, and work on a birthday present. My Mom was also working on another order. And our 2 fur babes, wouldn't leave our laps.

So when we left the house, a little on the rough side, we figured we wouldn't see a soul! You know, that we knew. Halfway through our yummy meal, our friend from church walks in. What was she thinking, when we saw us? Oh well...dinner was amazing!

 9. Finished Orders. My Mom finished this order, late Tuesday night. And I was getting a little worried, when I couldn't get in touch with the lady. When we got to the Market on Wednesday, I called a few more times. Then figured...oh well!

About 10AM, she came running through the grass. So excited to see her dolls! That ALWAYS puts a smile on my face! To see someone so happy, to get their orders. And to see them, so happy!

The lady was so excited! So was my Mom. She put in quite a few hours. Working on these 3 dolls. And we also got a few more orders, from the same lady. Win-win-win!

10. Sweetheart Snuggles. when we got home Wednesday, our dogs were waiting for us. We'd left the house around 6AM. And didn't return until almost 6PM. It was a looong day! Growers' Market, lunch, and wondering around Hobby Lobby. You know...a typical Wednesday.

But when we walked through the door, this sweet face was ready for cuddles. That doesn't come often. So while my Mom was watching the news and Belle was exploring the yard...we snuggled.

This girl can be so loving. And shows such promise. At times. So you have to enjoy it, while it lasts. I really do love her. And I know, it's not her fault. You know, that she has issues. Just know, when you rescue a pup...they have a history. And you just have to love them, through all their problems.

11. My Shotgun Rider. Thursday morning, was s super gloomy day! We all slept in late. And I wasn't in the mood, to cook. I know. What is wrong with the world? So I took Belle on a "Bye-bye."

She just LOVES being in the car. And she was enjoying her new clothes. Not to mention, she was finally feeling better. We played a little Bruno Mars, cruised over the bridge, and picked up breakfast and coffee for my Momma.

Total bonus...was the gift card that I used. Am I the only one that enjoys a good giftcard? Breakfast on my friends!

12. Thursday Night Birthday Parties. My little cousin turned 2 this week. And her birthday party was last night. I mean, how cute is she! I might not have been able to finish her birthday present in time. But I could give up Grey's Anatomy for the night.

She really is the cutest thing. And I do enjoy a birthday party. The food is always delish! And you get to have sweets. A total bonus, is that it is on Thursday evening. You know, our weekends are already crazy! So to spread out the parties...is always a win! Happy Birthday Olivia!

Let's not forget the good chats. You know, when you see people...that you haven't seen in forever! I always enjoy catching up with friends and family. Grey's will just have to wait until today. Total bonus...I was home by 8Pm. In my PJs, with a full belly!

13. Party Decorations. Shall we chat about decorations? My cousin always has the cutest decorations! Her parties are so cute. I mean, did you see Olivia's cute outfit? Yeah, I about died when I saw the pics on Facebook.

But her party, just had me thinking. About our upcoming Tea Party Fundraiser. T minus 4 months. I LOVED the look of her decorations. And it's the direction I was already leaning in.

But the sweet treats...they were so yummy! I wonder where she got her cookies, cupcakes, and cake? Yum! And the Rise Krispie treats, weren't too sweet. LOVED that! So much inspiration. I might have also said...I wanted a birthday party this year. :)

14. Doggie Birthday Parties. Yup, you read that right. Miss Belle is turning 2...on Saturday. Which means, we must party! I always think, I should invite people. You know, I go to a million kids' parties. Why not? Include a little note...with her favorite food, treats, and doggie size. 

But I haven't been brave enough. And I wanted something simple. So late last night, I went to Wal-Mart. I was sad, not to really find a big selection of items. I was looking forward to a Barn Animal Party. But they didn't have the supplies. Oh well...

I think Belle will just enjoy the food, treats, and toys. What else can a dog ask for? Bonus...the cupcakes go with her outfit. Yes, you read that right! My dog has a birthday outfit. And a hat! :)

15. Pray For Las Vegas. Sunday Night, my heart sank. Just to hear all the sad news. I've traveled there so much! Performing and such. It just killed my heart. Please keep all of those innocent people in your prayers. It's going to be a long recovery. Pray for the lives lost. And the ones, that will have to carry this night...with them forever.

Folks, I've got to get going. So much to do today. Baking, party planning, wrapping presents, finishing presents, and getting ready for 2 Markets this weekend. I hope you had a GREAT week. And an even better weekend! Happy Friday!

XOXO,
Desiree

What's In My Purse?

One of my favorite blog posts and YouTube videos...are the "What's in my Purse." So today I'm linking up with Andrea...to show you what's in my bag. And if you know me, I carry a few. 

For example, I have a backpack, sitting on the floor of the living room. With stuff we took to the State Fair on Sunday. I'm leaving it packed, except for the food, until we go again this week. I also have a Market bag...that I take to the Growers' Markets. There might also be a tote, that I carry around. With my current project and such. And a big purse. Oh...there is also a work bag.

But today, I'm showing you my "little bag." I get asked about it...on YouTube a lot. It's the purse, that I grab on the go. Like when I run to the grocery store, shopping in general, or just a quick errand. My Mom bought it for me actually. It's just a small bag.

So my every day bag, was bought at the Growers' Market. And it holds my essentials. Not a lot of stuff. But things I might need on a quick trip to put gas, buy groceries, or run out to dinner. 

My bag is made out of fabric. And has a long strap. Something that is easy to wear as a Crossbody. My Momma added a snap to the front. That way I don't lose anything. I like this bag so much! In fact, I bought another one. Slightly larger. To fit my Kindle, when I know I'll be out a little longer. 

My Momma also has one. We bought my sister one. And have bought a few as gifts. It just a nice little bag, to take on a quick errand. It holds the basics. Without getting too crazy. And every person that we have given one to, loves it!

When I first started carrying my small bag, I had a wallet. But it seemed to be too big. Like I couldn't fit anything else inside. My Goddaughter sent me this change purse. And it's just big enough to fit my Debit card, giftcards, membership cards...and some cash. What else could you need?

I also have a HORRIBLE habit of losing my car keys. Keys in general. So I ALWAYS throw them in my purse. You will also find some gum. And tissue.  You just never know...

Electronics of some sort, are also in there. My phone. And a charger. Being a blogger/vlogger you need one. At all times. There's just so much to see and record. I also carry a small pad of paper and a pen. I prefer a purple one.

As a crafter, I also carry a crochet hook and scissors. You just never know! Sometimes, I have a couple of crochet hooks. Maybe a needle and thread. That kind of thing. Because I'm ALWAYS working on a project or order!

Although I don't wear a ton of makeup these days, I have a few essentials. Salveation ALWAYS! I have the chapstick...and the small tub. It's great to have for chapped lips, bug bites, dry skin, emergencies, etc.

I also always have a mirror. Sometimes, you'll find a nail clipper and tweezers. But there is always a mirror. And a hair tie. There are so many things, you can do with one of those! Oh, and red lipstick. I own so much red lipstick...that it is kind of funny! But this one is Revlon's Love That Red.

The only thing, not pictured is my snacks. I ALWAYS have snacks! But the day I was taking these pictures, I had just had my snack. So what do I carry? A peanut butter granola bar. And a small bag of beef jerky. I have both low sugar and iron. And need these on a regular.

If you're playing along, please post your link. I LOVE to read these posts! And watch these videos. They really are my favorite! Happy Tuesday!

XOXO,
Desiree

The American Rome

A few weeks ago, my sister wanted to meet for dinner. My Mom and I were thinking we'd take her out, for her birthday. My sister, in all her grand-ness, wanted to take us out. It's one of those fights, that I know I'll never win. My sister ALWAYS manages to steal the bill. Even when I buy the movie tickets, I find a $20 in my purse, when I get home.

We don't see my sister much. My Littlest Big Sista works in the movie industry. And is gone, months at a time. So getting together, doesn't happen much. It's time that we cherish when we have it. So I wrapped up my sister's birthday present. And we headed to Chili's.

As usual, my sister comes with a plan. She, like me, would much rather spend time together. Than you know, shower each other with gifts. But Sista Jae still showed up, with a ton of stuff for us. If you follow me on Instagram, you got a little sneak at our evening. Flowers, cards, and giftcards...for both my Mom and I. Late birthday present for me. Mother's Day and my Momma's birthday. We ate through a table of food. And somehow, crammed in some Baskin Robbins.

But it was more than that. It was the catching up. The conversations. The laughter. Those are the moments I cherish. Sitting there, just talking...reminds me of my Dad. He ALWAYS told me, Jae was the one...that I should put the effort into. You see, being the youngest of 9...hasn't left me with close sibling relationships. I grew up alone. With many years between my sibs and I. It's been a difficult road. But my Dad NEVER wanted me to give up on my sister.

The day before, my sister had called me. Wanted to double check our plans. Make sure we were going to the same place. Had the right time. After we chatted for a bit, I gave the phone to my Momma. I went to the living room, to work on some projects. An hour later, my pup wanted a snack. And when we walked into the kitchen...my Momma was laying on the couch. Relaxed and chatting away with my sister. She reminded me, of a teenager. Laughing away. Laying down...legs crossed. It made my heart sing! I think they were on the phone for 3 hours. No lie!

So on that Friday evening, when my sister was telling us she'd be gone for months...my heart sank. Months without her. Because her partner landed a job in Washington DC. And as casual as one would say Hello...she invited us to DC!

WHAT?!?!?! Yes, they're getting an apartment. "Ma, what do you think? You guys can come out for a week or two. Sister we can go see a Redskins' game. We can cook, explore, do it all!" No need to tell me twice. I was sold! And so was my Momma!

You see, I've ALWAYS LOVED history. And I've dreamt of going to DC. For as much traveling as I've done, it's the one place I really haven't visited. I say this...knowing I've gone to see a Redskins' game. In 2010, I flew across the country. Planned and hosted a Surprise Baby Shower...for my Bestie. And when baby girl's Nino got home from work...after the shower, he surprised me. With tickets to the game. We flew in, saw the game, and flew out. Friends in high places...

It was AMAZING! Flying private jet. Seeing my favorite NFL team. Sitting in one of THOSE boxes! Seeing that beautiful skyline at night. I told him, in the wee hours of that morning...one day I'd be back. And I meant it! Not necessarily the NFL game. But this beautiful city! Sorta like the Queen City. How many times have I been? But I'm dying to just explore the city.

Fast forward 6 1/2 years. And my friends got the opportunity to take their 5 kiddos. D had some sort of conference. And it landed in the middle of Spring Break 2017. The entire week they were gone, their kiddos sent me text messages, emails, and Skyped their trip. Showing me all the sites. Oh, I wanted to jump through my phone. It looked so beautiful.

I knew exactly what was going through my Momma's head. The instant my sister planted that seed! She had the same look, that I had...running through my brain. Essentially, we just need to get airline tickets. Have some spending money. You know. The basics.

But here's the thing. We were invited to go to Las Vegas. In fact, our family is leaving in days. Bachelorette weekend of sorts. My Mom is not well enough for travel. You know...she can't be walking up and down the strip. Most days, she sleeps well past 9AM. And the whole, 8+ people sharing a room. Just ain't happening. Being that my Mom needs rest, hanging out with a bunch of people, ready to party and have fun, probably isn't the best. And it's an expense, to a city that we're not into. So we said no...

I mean, I've been to Sin City, more times than I can count. Here's the thing, it was for work. I'm not into the drinking, partying, craziness...that's Vegas. Neither is my Mom. Every trip I've ever made there, has been for work. or my Bestie's wedding. And my highlights revolve around an Animal style burger...and mini Wedding cake. Maybe some shopping. And hanging out, at my bosses' homes.

So the expense of a trip, that we're not into...was not something I was interested in. I mean, I could call said boss, and he'd 99.9% hook me up with some amazing suite. His mom and mine...would enjoy hanging out together. But it's really not the kind of trip, that gets my Mom and I excited. Especially since things are real tight around here. You know, having a chronic illness, isn't cheap. In fact, I need to come up with $1500 in the next few weeks. Darn medical bills! But it needs to happen, so my Momma can get the care she needs.

So how do I justify a trip across the country? I really don't. My sister is dying for us to go. We even talked about spending Thanksgiving out there. But my Momma is sick. And she doesn't travel much. Honestly. Yes, she went to California last summer. But she didn't really relax. Or get to do what she wanted. So a real vacation is in order.

Not to mention, she's sick. I don't know if we'll have her next year. Or in 6 months. Or if she'll live another 20 years. But I don't want to regret this. There is such potential, to make memories, on this trip. But after taking a look at things, I'm taking myself out of this equation. You know, hopefully my sister and I, have years to make memories. And hopefully, I have 20+ years, to get myself to DC. Right at this moment, my entire goal, is to get my Momma there.

Funny thing is, the morning after our dinner...I was asked to help a friend out. Who owns a business. And will have a booth, at the State Fair. She needs help, running things. Immediately, I said yes! Didn't think twice. Figured I could clear my schedule. Do whatever is necessary. And I hope things work out. I plan to use the money, to get my Mom a ticket. And send her, with some spending money.

I've been checking tickets, for a few weeks now. Roughly $275-350. Looking closer to the holidays, it triples! But it's not out of reach. You know, if you work hard. And pray harder. Who knows what can happen.

No matter if she decides to go for Thanksgiving, before, or after...I'm out. Because we also have these 2 little pups. And that would cost an arm and a leg...to board them. They probably wouldn't even take our crazy cocker spaniel. And I just don't see anyone being able to watch them for us.

So I'm OK with staying home. As long as my Mom gets to go. I'm sure, I have a friend or 2, to spend the holiday with. I know I can keep our little mutts happy. And I know, my Mom will be in good hands. You know, she can go at her pace. If she needs to rest...she has a room. If she wants to go somewhere, or do something...I know my sister will make it happen. If there's a day, that she just needs to stay in, she can.

And I think it's what my Momma needs. Something fun, relaxing, and time with my sister and Shawn. Sometimes you just have to "adult," and do what's best for another person. You know, DC will always be there. And I'm sure I can figure out, how to get there in my lifetime. Y'all...I managed to get myself to a Redsox game. So I'm confident.

Until then, ya that's me busting my butt. Hauling our Crafts...from Market to Market. You know 5 Markets, in 8 days. Almost killed me! But totally worth it. Until I sit down and crunch the numbers. Have you seen our tags? Only one color goes to us. Well, 2 if we get real technical. The pink and green. Orange tags, go to pay my Mom's medical bills. Yellow is for our Scholarship Fund. Blue is for the foundation. And purple is for our Fun Mail Fridays.

So when any given weekend shakes out, we might actually pocket 1/4 of the money. The rest, goes to our foundation or bills. So it's going to be a long road. We have a ton of Shows and Markets lined up. I'm working for about 10 days at the Fair. And I'm working my way, through a ton of orders! Speaking of...if you want to order anything, you can reach me at TwoCraftyHeartsOrders (at) gmail (dot) com. If you include WDCT (Washington DC Trip) somewhere in the email, I'll make sure the money goes to my Momma's trip.

I've got just over 2 months. I hope to buy the airline ticket, before the end of this month. At the latest, mid-September. And hope to continue to save money...to send my Mom with a good amount of spending money. You know, so she can enjoy herself. Enjoy the entire experience. And have fun with my sister. Maybe head a little further north...for some exploring.

Speaking of, I haven't told my Mom or sister any of this. I figure if I can get my Mom there, my sister will take care of most of the rest. She is already planning family dinners. And adventures. My sister is like that. My job, is to get my Momma there. To take care of her. I promised my Dad that. And I mean, to do everything possible, to make it happen.

XOXO,
Desiree