Backwards N High Heels

Balancing work and play while wearing many hats (I mean heels).

Best Pinterest Recipes of 2017

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It is no secret, I adore Pinterest. I have told you all this time and time again. While it may seem unimaginable, I do recall a time, when recipe references relied upon bookmarked recipe books or printed off recipes online. In fact, I still have both! I have a cabinet in my dining room hutch that is reserved for said books, which contain a few favorites. The worse part is I have to remember which book included the recipe, which usually results in me pulling out every book to skim through each. I too have a blue battered three-ring binder that contains all of the recipes I have printed online over the years (pre-Pinterest). Today it is more convenient to turn to my Pinterest App, which includes a great search feature, allowing me to look through saved Pins. Voila, I have my favorite recipe at my fingertips, in seconds.

But let me advise, not every Pinterest recipe is a winner. In fact, there are some real hum-dingers out there. Some I have experienced first hand, thinking, “Boy, the photo did you more justice.”

I refuse to keep a pin on my Food Board if it is not approved by me. So, in honor of the New Year approaching, I decided to share my favorite Pinterest Recipes of 2017.

Chicken A La Gloria – Cooking With Sugar
Sweet Potato Fries – New York Times
Honey Mustard Chicken Avocado Bacon Salad – Cafe Delites
No-Knead Dutch Oven Bread – Girl Versus Dough
Slow Cooker Sausage, Spinach, and White Bean Soup – Damn Delicious
Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad – Creme de la Crumb
Chessy Zucchini Bake – Lemon Tree Dwelling
Mom’s Seasoned Pretzels – Sallys Baking Addiction

So, which one are you most interested to try? Let me gently nudge you that all are super easy and super delicious, or else they would not make my list!

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Nordstrom Half-Yearly Sale

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This post contains affiliate links.

Tis’ the season. Nordstrom Half-Yearly Sale has returned. What does that mean? Well, it means up to 50% off some of the best fashion items and named brands out there. I am talking Michael Kors, Kate Spade, Madewell, Hunter and more.

Basically, it is an excuse to stay in your pajamas until 11 am, pour a third cup of coffee and peruse the web for some of the best online deals since Cyber Mondy. Yes, it is that cool!

So, here are some of my top picks that are available. The annual sale is available until January 2, 2018, and many items will sell out, I repeat will sell out. In fact, items I wanted to include sold out overnight before I could share this post.

Pictured:  Original Insulated Boot  |  Sneakers  |  Bootie  |  Crossbody Bag  |  Wallet  |  Ring  |  Watch   |  Beanie  |  Lounge Shorts  |  Herringbone Scarf   |  Raw V-Neck  |  Jonah Neck Tie Top  |  Twist Fleece Pullover

Here are some of my top accessory picks from the sale!

Here are some of my favorite clothing picks from the sale.

Happy Shopping!

 

 

Today You Are Three


Today is the day my baby girl, turns three. THREE! Seriously, I still do not know how that possibly could be. I look at the clock now, and think back to three years ago today, when she came into this world three weeks too early, but right on time for me. My little Christmas baby and present. A joy and complete whirlwind arrival. I think of her tiny little fingers and nose and swear I can still smell her sweet newborn smell if I think really hard. And, while I very much find birthdays for myself exciting, for Lo, they are all too often bittersweet. She has grown. Another year down. And, yes, I am grateful and blessed for this past year, it is too nostalgic to really think how quickly time does pass and every moment and milestone you thought just would never come, has come and gone. But, instead of focusing on my pitiful sadness of watching my baby turn into a little lady, I celebrate her and the many joys she has brought to me.


Today you are three!

  • Your imagination and the wonder in your eyes. Watching you pretend play is like living every day in theatre. You are so committed to your imaginary world and bring us in with your stories and play.
  • Your uncanny ability to hear a song play once and then be able to sing the lyrics upon the second time it plays. I cannot tell you how many times your Dad and I have looked at each other, “Oh my goodness can you believe this?”
  • How when we say our nighttime prayers, after listing all our family, you pause, giggle and say, “And, waterparks.”
  • The fact that you can without certain, determine if I have heated your bottle to the perfect :35 seconds.
  • Your sense of adventure and exploration. A distinct characteristic you must have gotten from your father.
  • When you ask to eat at “Chic FOR Lay” 🙂
  • Your idea of a Saturday. Shopping! Girl, your father is going to be in trouble.
  • Your my cuddle bug, and I love when you curl up in my arms.
  • Speaking of that you are my baby cakes and honey bee and if I address you anything different you quickly remind me that those are your names.
  • When you take your little hands and squeeze our checks and announce, “I love you!”
  • Your obsession with the movie ELF this holiday season.
  • Your big blue eyes and bright smile.
  • Your giggles and laugh really are my favorite.

Today you are three! But, as I explained to you last night as I put you to sleep, while two is now gone, my sweet baby, you will always be. Remember, you promised!

Happy Birthday, our sweet girl. We adore you and love you.

Holiday Gift Guide for Him

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Tis’ the season, for trying to hunt down the perfect gift idea for, him. Quite possibly the hardest person on your list. I know it is a challenge for mine. (Sorry, Nathan). I have had some wins and then some fails, but for the most part, I try to get something he specifically asks for or hints hard about, and then I try to surprise him with a well-thought-out gift.

I know his hobbies, which usually include hunting, fishing, and being outdoors, so a gift that falls into one of those categories usually scores a ride in my virtual shopping cart, followed by an online order and delivery to my door. Oh, how I love online shopping.

For the Craft Brew Lover – Beer Cap Map – this is so much better than a neon light beer branded bar sign! Plus, it is a conversation starter on the best beers and breweries across the country.

For the Techie – Amazon Echo 2nd Generation – supposedly new sound, new design and new features which include pairing with other Echos in the home, calling and messaging contacts, and cooking dinner. Just kidding. I am making sure you are still reading. Projector – add a pop-up screen and popcorn to the stocking and you have a movie night wherever you go!

For the Music Lover – Record Clock – this is pretty nifty because it is fully functional and is also pretty thought out. If the guy in your life has a space that his own, a basement “man cave,’ a music room, a garage or his office, this is a nice touch. Phone Speaker – I feel like music from this wooden speaker would almost be sweeter.

For the Outdoor Lover – Duffle Bag – because if he likes to hunt or fish then he probably does not believe deer and fish exist in the mountains and waters near him, but instead far away places call his name. Chair Hammock – because nights by the river, or camping trips require some luxurious of relaxation.

For the Gamer – Nintendo NES Classic Edition – Super Mario is still, in my opinion, hands-down, the best game there ever was. A close second, Sonic the Hedgehog, but who is talking about him? If your guy likes to game, why not surprise him with the system that probably started the love! Virtual Reality Headset – because if life is not exciting enough, why, not put one of these bad boys on and travel to another world the virtual world that is.

For the Funny Man – Tube Wringer – for the goofball that likes a good laugh, and because let’s face it, guys tend to not really know how to empty a toothpaste container.

For the Sports Lover – The Nascar Racing Experience or Banks Billfold Wallet (constructed from vintage American Baseball glove leather). Both nice touches! One more experienced focused and the other a bit more sentimental.

For the Fashion Focused – Patagonia Hat – a named-brand like Patagonia is one that tends to be more outdoor and high-end focused. If you can’t swing a jacket or sweatshirt, this hat is a nice touch.

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Cyber Monday Deals

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The Ultimate Cyber Monday Deals List!
*I will be updating throughout the day so check back in. This post contains affiliate links.

Adidas – 30% OFF. Use Code CYBER2017. Ends 11/28/2017.
ALDO – 50% OFF original price on all sale + 20% OFF regular priced merchandise. Ends 11/27/2017.
American Eagle – 40% OFF everything + free shipping.
American Girl – Up to 60% OFF + $5.95 shipping on all orders $100+. Use Code CMSHIP.
Ann Taylor – Free shipping + 50% OFF everything. Use Code BESTMONDAY. Ends 11/28/2017.
Anthropologie – 20% OFF full price items + free shipping on $100+.
Athleta – 20% OFF. Use Code REFRESH. Ends 11/27/2017.
ASOS – 30% OFF everything with Code EPIC30. Ends 11/28/2017.
Banana Republic – 50% OFF Everything. Ends 11/27/2018.
bareMinerals – 25% OFF everything + free shipping. Use Code CYBER.
Bath & Body Works – 40% OFF Everything + free shipping on $40+. Use Code CYBERMON.
Bauble Bar – 35% OFF Everything! Use Code CYBER35. Ends 11/28/2017.
Caden Lane – 20% OFF Everything. Use Code CYBER20.
Carter’s – 50% OFF entire store + an extra 25% OFF $40+. Use Code CYBER.
Charming Charlie – Up to 50% OFF everything + free shipping.
Coach Outlet – 70% OFF everything.
Crate and Barrel – 15% OFF full price items. Use Code SAVE15. + free shipping on orders of $49+. Ends 11/27/2017.
Disney Store – Save up to 30% OFF. Use Code CYBRRR.
Eddie Bauer – 50% OFF everything. Use Code HOLIDAYS.
EXPRESS – 50% OFF everything + free shipping. Ends 11/28/2017.
Free People – 25% OFF everything + free standard shipping. Ends 11/27/2017.
Forever 21 – 21% OFF everything. Use Code CYBER21.
GAP – 50% OFF + free shipping. Use Code CYBER. + Extra 10% OFF Everything. Use Code TREAT. Ends 11/27/2017.
Gymboree – $25 OFF $100+. Use Code CYBER.
H&M – 30% OFF everything.
hanna Anderson – $25 all kids organic pajamas. + Extra 25% OFF everything else including sale items.
HUNTER – 20% OFF + exclusive offer on the women’s original tall rain boot.
Janie and Jack – Free shipping + 35% OFF entire order.
J.Crew – 40% OFF + extra 10% off your purchase until noon.
J.Crew Factory – 60% OFF everything + an extra 50% OFF clearance. Use Code CYBER. Ends 11/28/2017.
Justice – 50% OFF excluding furniture, including clearance.
Kate Spade – 30% OFF full price items + 40% OFF sale items. Use Code MOREJOY. Ends 11/28/2017.
KEEN – 20% OFF + free 2-day shipping on orders of $75+.
Kendra Scott – 20% OFF everything. Use Code YELLOW20.
Land of Nod – 20% OFF (Including Furniture) + $99 Delivery! Ends 11/27/2017.
Little Tykes – 25% OFF sitewide. Use Code CYBER25.
LOFT – 50% OFF Everything + free shipping. Use Code CLICK. Ends 11/28/2017.
LOU and GREY – $25 OFF $150+. + Free shipping.
MAC Cosmetics – 25% OFF + a free cyber lip set on $50+. Use Code MAC25.
Macy’s – Take an extra 20% OFF. Code CYBER. Ends 11/29/2017.
Madewell – 25% OFF your purchase. Use Code GOODMODE.
ModCloth – 30% OFF + free shipping. Use Code CYBER.
Nordstrom – 20% OFF selected sale items.
North Face – Up to 20% OFF.
Old Navy – 50% OFF Everything. Ends 11/27/2017.
Pottery Barn – Up to 70% OFF. + Free shipping. Use Code FREESHIP.
Pottery Barn Kids – Up to 70% OFF. + Free shipping. Use Code FREESHIP.
Target – 15% OFF your order.
TOMS – Free shipping + 25% OFF select styles including all sale. Use Code THANKFUL.
Toys R Us / Babies R Us – Save 15% OFF your entire purchase.
Urban Outfitters – $50 OFF $150+. $15 OFF $75+.
Victoria’s Secret – Free shipping on $30+ plus 20% OFF %125+. Use Codes SHIP30 and 200FFVS.
West Elm – Up to 70% OFF + free shipping with Code FREERIDE.
Zara – 40% OFF select items.

Don’t forget to use EBATES when you shop! Simply download the EBATES Button, which will always alert you to cash back available on retailer sites you are shopping.

Please note: Retailers may change their offers which may not reflect above. All offers are subject to change.

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Holiday Gift Guide for Toddlers

Toddler_Holiday-Gift-Guide copyHave you been watching my Instagram stories lately? Well, if so, you will see that over the course of the last few months, our two-nearly-three-year-old daughter’s personality is really starting to come out. Some days I love it. Other days I am terrified, but for the most part, I enjoy the daily giggles I get from the cute, honest, and spontaneous things she says.

We are in full Christmas mode here in our home. It is true when they say that the holiday magic returns once you have children. Suddenly that butterflies in your belly magic that once existed as a child returns and you feel the spirit of the holiday season return. We are enjoying creating new traditions and celebrating ones that our parents started with us.

At this age, Lo changes her Christmas wish list quite a few times in one day. I really do not know what she wants but instead, know she will like just about anything. As shopping has already begun, here are a few favorites for Toddlers this holiday season.

Play Kitchen  |  Mixer Set  |  Fridge Food  |  “Everything is Mama” Book  |  Sleeping Bag  |  Table Top Easel  |  Circus Mice in Tent  |  Kids Chair  |  Farmers Market Playtime Kit  |  My Mommy’s Tote

What is your favorite from the list or what holiday gift ideas for toddlers would you like to share?

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10 Steps To Crush Black Friday Shopping

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There are two reasons in life I get up way before the sun rises with a smile on my face and a pep in my step. 1) Hosting a yard sale. 2) Black Friday Shopping.

My Black Friday days started back when I was in high school and got a job working for KB Toys. Who remembers them? Well, I do, because I lived for Black Friday. I even volunteered to work double shifts. They didn’t allow it but I tried and that is what matters.

The smell of new toys, the hysteria from strangers, the smirk on my face knowing exactly where in the store of the floor to ceiling toys the latest and greatest doorbusters where secretly hidden. It started then, my love for Black Friday, and before you judge me or call me out for being a materialistic fool please know that I really don’t care. For the tradition of Black Friday is something I love and yes, start counting down the day to somewhere after the 4th of July.

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In Sickness and In Health

We stood in the farm field. It was a warm late-August day. The summer sun peeking in and out behind delightful white puffy clouds, shining through enough to give us bursts of warmth, but hiding enough to be our photographer’s dream.

The day was everything we had imagined and more. I, an anxious, worry-wart, managed to summons the calmness from the depths of my being. Unbeknownst to me, this chillness did exist and I was ever present at our wedding. Looking back I know I am a lucky one. Too often brides stress their way through their big day, but I truly enjoyed every second of our wedding and lived out each moment presently.

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Holiday Gift Guide for Your Best Friend

BFF_Holiday-Gift-GuideAnd, so it begins! The holiday season is upon us. I adore the holidays. In the weeks leading up, the excitement builds and I turn into a giddy Buddy the Elf. Oh, the image I just put in your head.

Last holiday season I got all down with my holiday bad self and customized a handful of Holiday Gift Guides and let me tell you folks something, it took off! Meaning I felt like a virtual shopper for many of you and even had follow-up work from friends, co-workers, and family saying, “Well, what should I get…?” No, extra work on me! I promise. I LOVE it.

So, here we go again. You ready? I thought since you are all my virtual BFF’s I would start with a Holiday Gift Guide that is suited for the best friend in your life.

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Amazon Farmhouse Decor Finds

This post contains affiliate links.

Dear Retailers, I am afraid I am slowly starting to turn into a pajama wearing, wine drinking, credit card using, couch surfing shopper. Is that suppose to be something to strive for? I am really not sure.

Living in the mountains, country, rural America – shopping on a big retailer scale requires a drive, and I usually reserve that for Target trips or Black Friday, but who is counting. Therefore, Amazon and particularly, Amazon Prime is my shopping best friend. I love the free shipping and quickness.

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