Whatever Dee-Dee wants, she's gonna get it

Free Printable: Kids Prayer Chart

2012-01-30T05:00:00.052-07:00

Lately my husband and I have been teaching Brody about praying.

Listening to his prayers are about the sweetest thing!

I made this prayer chart to help him.

I decided to put in in a picture frame so he can use dry erase marker to check off when he says his prayers.
You can download your own prayer chart here.
I also made it in orange, yellow and coral.

For personal use only.

It's Just Another Stylin' Sunday

2012-01-29T14:09:00.000-07:00

Today was the first time Brody made it through all of primary without crying!

And I didn't have to sit with him in sharing time, that is huge!

Shopping Red Envelope for Valentines Gifts

2012-01-28T05:00:00.075-07:00

With Valentines Day around the corner it's time to start thinking about Valentines gifts.One of my favorite places for gifts is Red Envelope. I have purchased quite a few gifts there over the years, a favorite being a leather cufflink box for Travis.

Red Envelope makes it easy to find the perfect gift with suggestions for her, for him, for kids, for Valentines Day and other occasions. It's really quite easy to shop their website.

I may have recently ordered myself a little Valentines gift from Red Envelope. I saw these red pajamas and couldn't help myself. I also ordered these darling little lion mittens for Brody. I was so excited when the package arrived, they shipped so fast!

Here are some of my favorite gifts for men at Red Envelope

Wooden watch

Cufflink display box

Leather duffle bag

I also love these gifts for kids

Striped PJs

Personalized kid's faces pillows

Have you shopped on Red Envelope before?

I was compensated for this post, though all opinions are my own.

DIY Party Garland with Glue Dots®

2012-01-27T05:00:00.001-07:00

I made this super simple party garland for the Glue Dots® Design team awhile ago

and want to share it with you.

You will need:

Various sized (paper and/or felt) circles

Glue Dots®

Ric Rack or ribbon

Step 1. Cut the Ric Rack to desired length

Step 2. Lay the Ric Rack out flat and apply circles with Glue Dots about 2 inches apart.

Make sure to leave room at the ends to make hanging the garland easier.

That's it. Super easy right?

Where do you like to hang garlands?

I wrote this blog post while participating on the Glue Dots® Design Team.

Please Fill Out This Survey

2012-01-25T05:00:00.012-07:00

Will you do me a huge favor?

Will you please fill out this survey about my blog for me?

It will only take about 1 minute and it will help me figure out what's working or not working on my blog.

Thanks!

DIY Dinosaur Hoodie

2012-01-24T06:00:00.021-07:00

Today I am over at Me Sew Crazy sharing my DIY dinosaur hoodie.
All month long Me Sew Crazy has been featuring Bloggers and their ReSewLution projects.
I hope you will stop by and check it out.

{Tutorial & Free Printable} Sweets for the Sweet Valentines Pillow Box

2012-01-23T05:00:00.028-07:00

Valentines is a dangerous holiday for me! I have no will-power when it comes to the sugary goodness found on isle after isle at the grocery store. I'm a sweet-tooth-a-holic! There I said it! My name is Kirsten and I like candy. However, I love baking and giving away sweets as well, so this little printable pillow box is perfect for the holiday. It's going to help me get some of this candy out of my house and into someone else's.

First download and print out the pillow box on your home printer or your local print shop. Just keep in mind, this printable works best with card stock. It's needs the heavier weight paper to keep it's shape. After printing it's as easy as the next couple of steps...

It's a great size for any valentine candy imaginable, cookies or brownies.

Uh oh... this little sweetie-pie has inherited the love of candy from his mother! What's a mom to do?

To download the Valentines pillow box printable go HERE.

Also, don't forget to head on over to Embellish and check out my other FREE printables. Enjoy!

Thanks Kirsten for the darling Valentines box printable and tutorial!

You can see more of Kirsten's amazing printables and tutorials on her blog, Embellish.

It's Just Another Stylin' Sunday

2012-01-22T15:31:00.000-07:00

Brody wore is custom made suit to church today.

I am happy to see it still fits him. I guess not having a bulky diaper helps.

Dwyane Wade and Lebron James Style

2012-01-21T05:00:00.036-07:00

Have you noticed how well Dwayne Wade and Lebron James dress?

It's no wonder they are on NBA's best dressed list.

Via A Glam Slam

Via GQ and Stack Blog

Via GQ

Fashion Bomb Daily

What do you think? Do you like Dwayne Wade and Lebron James style?

Pastel nail Polish

2012-01-20T05:00:00.001-07:00

I have never really been a big fan of purple, green or blue nail polish on me.

I usually stick to red or dark Burgundy but lately I keep seeing these pastel colors and I find myself wanting them.

What do you think? Do you like purple, green or blue for finger nails?

What are your favorite colors of nail polish ?

Snap! The Conference

2012-01-19T05:00:00.070-07:00

Have you heard about Snap! The Conference?

It's a three day conference right here in Utah.

If you like to sew, craft, create, decorate or blog you need to go to Snap!

The blogging conference will be held April 19th-21st at Thanksgiving Point.

There will also be rooms available at the on-site hotel, Springhill Suites by Marriott Hotel at a discounted price.
Hurry and book your room, Snap! takes place during Thanksgiving Point's Tulip Festival so rooms will book up fast.

The Snap! team (which is a pretty amazing group of girls) is putting together a great line up of speakers and panelist including Kara's Party Ideas, 6th Street Design School, I Still Love You, The TomKat Studio, Apartment Therapy, Mod Podge Rocks and many, many more!

I am also really excited for The Queen Bee Market which will be held at Snap! The Conference.

The Queen Bee Market is a handmade market run by Mique Provost from 30 Days.

Are you going to Snap?

I Have a Serious Crush on PB Teen

2012-01-17T05:00:00.000-07:00

Whenever the new PB Teen catalog arrives in my mailbox I find my self crushing.

Look at this Suite Sofette and Striped Armchair and tell me you don't have a crush. It's hard not to.

I also love this vanity. If I had an extra $1,200 in my pocket it would be mine.

Have you purchased something from PB Teen for yourself before?

This Week For Dinner

2012-01-16T05:00:00.003-07:00

I have been really bad about cooking lately.

I need to be better about cooking dinner for my family. Here is a list of what I am planing to cook this week.

Monday- Parmesan breaded Tilapia

Tuesday- Homemade pizza

Wednesday- Beef Stroganoff

Thursday- Lemon chicken

Friday- Meatloaf or maybe Carnivore Cupcakes for brody

Saturday- Breakfast for dinner (either waffles or French toast)

Sunday- Soup and salad

What will you be making for dinner this week?

It's Just Another Stylin' Sunday

2012-01-15T15:49:00.000-07:00

Brody likes to pack his own church bag, he usually puts in a few books and cars.

Today he packed two things, a toothbrush and his monkey.

Brody wore his H&M sweater that he wore in our family pictures.

Cable Television

2012-01-14T08:00:00.012-07:00

With more and more channels offered in various cable packages every year, there are more and more programs to suit people of all ages, genders and backgrounds. For example, there is increased children’s programming all the time, more channels and ways of watching sports for athletically-inclined men, more reality shows for teenage crowds, etc. In accordance with this same trend, women seem to always have more programs to watch that are specifically designed for female enjoyment. There are now multiple channels and dozens of shows that are designed solely for female crowds, and most of them can be nice escapes from normal television for a lot of women.

Lifetime is the first network that comes to most people’s minds when considering women’s television, and it is probably still the most popular female network around. This channel came into existence in the 90’s as a place where women could rely on finding shows that don’t have to find a balance between appealing to men and women, or young and old crowds – it’s all just for women. Some of the network’s most popular shows over the years have been Will & Grace, Grey’s Anatomy, and other, more reality-geared shows such as Project Runway, and, now, Army Wives and Drop Dead Diva.

Another popular network that appeals to women but may not be as specifically designed for them is HGTV (which stands for Home & Garden TV). The network highlights and demonstrates a wide range of topics that fall under the broad heading of “home and garden,” and covers maintenance, decorating, shopping, etc. Some examples of the network’s most popular shows are Bang For Your Buck, Color Splash, and Design Star, among others. The network can be entertaining for many women, but can also be quite instructional for those who are looking for help with certain aspects of home and yard upkeep.

Regardless of your personal preferences and television taste, if you are a woman and you have been wanting some programming a bit different from what you normally see, and perhaps a bit more geared toward your sex, these networks are definitely worth checking out. You may find that you either find a show or two that deal with topics you are very interested in, or even that some of these shows help you to find new hobbies and interests. It is always nice to enjoy something specifically meant for you, and these networks may give you just that feeling.

What are your favorite shows?

Guest post sponsored by cabletelevision.net.

A Peek Into My Family Part 7

2012-01-13T05:00:00.001-07:00

Random tidbits about my family starting from oldest to youngest.

I am the youngest of 11 kids in my family.

Picture taken before I was born

Brad- Can sleep anywhere and I mean anywhere.

Brian- Use to own a small company that sold sets of Utah themed cookie cutters. I wish they still had the company, they were really cute!

Julie- Whenever I need help with anything I go to Julie. She has given me advice and/or help on parenting, cooking, cleaning, homework, vacation planning, life in general and SO much more.

Jim- I had a Totally Hair Ken doll when I was little. I swear it looked like Jim.

Susie- Introduced me to enchilada dip. It is SO good!

Todd- Had a Holly Hobbie themed room as a kid.

Laurie- Introduced me to Blondie. I drove my siblings crazy by playing The Tide is High on repeat.

Brent- Brent bought me a sprinkled doughnut today just because. It was a great surprise. Thank you!

John- Johnny broke his arm during a softball game a few years ago. I took him to the hospital. It was my first time visiting an emergency room.

Mary- One time Mary talked me into letting her cut my hair. I only wanted a tiny trim but she wanted to cut more. I should have known better when she kept telling me "I just can't get it even, I better cut more".

Me- I am the baby of the family. The best place to be!

I Love Valentines Day

2012-01-11T06:00:00.002-07:00

Last night I stopped by the grocery store. I noticed the Valentine stuff was out and I couldn't help but buy a few things. I just love Valentines! Maybe it's all the pink and red but I have no self control when it comes to that Valentine aisle.

In honor of all the pretty red and pink floating around out there, here are some fun Valentines stuff to get you excited for one of my favorite holidays.

Valentines Tic Tac Toe from Shim and Sons

I love you Valentines from Welcome to Room 36

Vday cookies from I am Baker

Stick 'Em Up Valentines from My Crazy Life as a Farmer's Wife

Cocktail Rings

2012-01-10T05:00:00.001-07:00

Don't you just love cocktail rings? I do!

Here are some fun rings I am loving right now.

Gold peach enamel cocktail ring

Aventurine stone ring from Stella and Dot

Rhinestone cutout ring

Gold plated cocktail ring

Pink jade cocktail ring

Melted Snowman

2012-01-09T05:00:00.001-07:00

Melted snowman cookie by The Decorated Cookie

It finally snowed here in Utah and Brody was so excited to play in the snow so we invited his cousins over to play. They had fun playing and they built a snowman. Today Brody noticed that the snowman was starting to melt and it really intrigued him. I think he would have fun making these melted snowman cookies. They are pretty cute don't you think?


Simple melted snowman cookies by Somewhat Simple

Have you made melted snowman cookies before?

It's Just Another Stylin' Sunday

2012-01-08T17:01:00.000-07:00

Lately when I try to take Brody's picture all he wants to do is make funny faces. Silly boy!

Oh and just so you know, I didn't pose Brody's hands that way.

February Ad Space Special

2012-01-06T05:00:00.003-07:00

I decided it would be fun to offer ad space on Whatever DeeDee Wants for a REALLY low price during the month of February.
Ad space is limited so email me to reserve your space.

Feel free to pin this, Tweet it or share it. For more information and details email me at dianna@whateverdeedeewants.com

Free Holiday Thank You Notes

2012-01-05T05:00:00.021-07:00

I just have to share these cute (and free) wintery thank you cards, book marks and recipe cards

from Amy at The Thank You Cards Shop. You can download them for free here.

Books in 2011

2012-01-03T06:00:00.002-07:00

I recently finished reading The Devil's Arithmetic and The Greatest Gift.

I enjoyed both books.

My favorite books I read in 2011 were

Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close, Gift From The Sea, I Am The Messenger and Unbroken.

I really liked all four of them and recommend them.

Now I need help figuring out a few new books to read.

What good books can you recommend to me?

Happy New year!

2011-12-31T09:00:00.001-07:00

Via

I hope you have a great new year!

Favorite Food and Recipes in 2011

2011-12-28T06:00:00.001-07:00

Cupcakes in a jar

Rhodes Baked Reuben Braid

Simple Pots de Creme

Fried pork Sandwich

Lime Butter Cookies from guest blogger Tiffanie

Pulled Pork Sandwich

What was your favorite recipe in 2011?

Favorite Crafts and Activities from 2011

2011-12-27T06:00:00.034-07:00

Let the 2011 recap begin.

Here are some of my favorite crafts & activities on Whatever DeeDee Wants from 2011

Felt flower name tag

All of the Blogger's Spring Fling

Swimsuit makeover

The Terrific Tuesdays Series

Santa beard on a stick

Felt flower corsage

Corner book mark tutorial

The Give Thanks Series

75 things to do with your kids in the summer

Turkey treat bag

Felt mask tutorial

University of Utah party printables

What were your favorite crafts from 2011?

Beyond Bedding

2011-12-26T06:00:00.031-07:00

I recently had the chance to review some new toddler bedding for Brody from Beyond Bedding.
Beyond Bedding is an online bedding shop that offers custom teen bedding, kids bedding, room accessories and more.

I decided to try out the Come Sail Away Nautical Bedding 5 Piece Set. Brody was so excited to open the package when it arrived. He wanted to get it on his bed right away.

I was pretty excited when the bedding arrived too! I am really glad I decided on the nautical set. It is really cute! Plus the comforter is nice and thick so Brody can stay warm this winter. Sometimes he brings it out of his room so we can snuggle under it while we watch a movie. It is quite soft and snugly!

For exclusive news and promotions sign up for the Beyond Bedding newsletter.

Beyond Bedding Blog | Facebook | Twitter

Beyond Bedding provided me with bedding to review but all opinions are my own.

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-24T06:00:00.011-07:00

Christmas card download from Simple as That

(This wasn't our real Christmas card I found this download too late)

Via Betty Crocker Wannabe

I hope you all have a fabulous Christmas!

I will be back here soon.

Happy Birthday Love!

2011-12-23T05:30:00.080-07:00

Today is Travis' birthday and I want to recognize him on my blog.

Since he is now 31 here are 31 random things about my Traver.

Travis and Brody 2009

1.Travis and I met as kids (16 years old) and quickly became best of friends

2. he is a very thoughtful gift giver

3. is an awesome butcher

4. creates the coolest fonts around

5. knows more useless facts (or useful depending on the fact) than anyone I know

6. is obsessed with cars

7. is a pickier eater than me (that's saying a lot)

8. he is the best at making Brody giggle

9. owns more shoes than me

10. is not afraid to wear pink

11. he kisses me goodbye every time he leaves the house

12. Travis is a major night owl

13. he makes me laugh

14. has amazing vision (which is good because i don't)

15.Travis loves LEGOS

16. lived in Nashville when he was a kid

17. is very creative

18. he has lived in Nashville

19. he loves baseball

20. his first car was a Volkswagen Corrado

21. Travis is a scout leader

22. he loves Mike and Ikes candy

23. he played hockey in high school

24. Travis is really ticklish

25. his initials are T.J. but his dad is the only one who calls him TJ

26. Funyuns are an essential part of his diet

27. he is very sweet

28. he gives good foot massages

29. Trav owns Wranglers, boots and a cowboy hat but I have never seen him wear them

30. Ender's Game is one of his favorite books

31. I love him!

Happy birthday Traver!

I Am

2011-12-21T06:00:00.000-07:00

Listening to- Pumped Up Kicks by Foster the People

Watching- Love Actually

Reading- Christmas cards
I am looking for a new book to read, any suggestions?

Cooking- Baking yummy Christmas goodies

Looking forward to- Watching Brody's excitement on Christmas morning

What have you been up to?

Santa Beard on a Stuck Tutorial and Download

2011-12-20T05:30:00.009-07:00

Last month I shared this easy Santa beard tutorial on I Heart Nap Time and I want to share it with you too.

This little Santa beard on a stick is a fun little prop for a photo booth or just to let your kids play with. Brody couldn't get enough of it.
It only takes a few minutes to make and is easy enough that your kids can make their own.

All you have to do is download the Santa beard template cut it out and glue on a thin dowel.
I backed mine with gray paper and used Glue Dots to attach both the grey paper and the dowel.

Revisited: Handmade Christmas Gift

2011-12-19T06:00:00.002-07:00

I know Christmas is almost here so this is a little late but I wanted to re-post it anyways.

Create a special holiday gift via Creating Keepsakes.

Free downloads

1) Nutcracker tags and package top
2) Mulling spices label
3) Tags
4) Adve nt calendar

You can buy more of the downloads here.

View the original post here.

Utah Blogger's Holiday Social

2011-12-17T05:00:00.011-07:00

I recently attended the annual Blogger's holiday social at Alice Lane in Provo hosted by Kirsten from 6th Street Design School. You may remember me posting about it last year.
Alice Lane Home Collection is a beautiful furniture and home boutique staffed with amazing designers.

I received a darling invitation for the event.

Everyone was asked to bring a handmade gift to exchange.

Below are a few of the gifts.

Here is mine wrapped in the brown paper.

It was fun to see what all the Bloggers made. I received a beautiful print from Kayti.

The party wouldn't be complete without some tasty treats.

There were so many talented women there.

The party goers included

Ashley from Birds of Ashmae

Brianna from Collected

Brooke from The Modern Sophisticate

Caitlin from Caitlin Creer Interiors

Caitlin from Hue and Hum

Camilla from First Lady of the House

Caroline from Armelle Blog

Danielle from Danielle Oakey Interiors

Emily from Ruffling Feathers
Erin from Designer Blogs

Heather from The Coterie

Jenna from Q.A. Designs
Jill from Jill K

Jylare from Jylare Ann Photography
Kayti from Oldham

Kimberley from Third Floor Design Studio

Kirsten from 6th Street Design School

Meikel from Meikel Reese

Melanie from Fifth and Hazel

Melissa from I Still Love You

Michelle from 4 Men 1 Lady

Nicole from A Little Sussy

Nicole from Us-ology

Susan from Freshly Picked

Wendy from Shabby Nest

And we were sent home with a homemade treat!

Thanks for the fun night!

Las Vegas for Kids

2011-12-16T06:00:00.000-07:00

Most people don't think of Las Vegas as a place for kids, but I assure you there is some kid friendly fun to be had in sin city. Our family spent a week in Las Vegas (well the boys spent most of their time at SEMA, the big car convention) and Brody had a great time!

Here is my list of fun, kid friendly activities in Las Vegas.

Via

-The Lion Habitat at MGM Grand
Free
This was one of Brody's favorite things. He is still talking about seeing the lions.
MGM Grand has a fun lion habitat set up where guests can see lions eat, play and (mostly) sleep. The habitat is open daily from 11-7 but the best time to go is during feeding time so make sure to check the schedule. You can also pay to have your picture taken with a lion cub.

-Children's Park at Town Square Mall
Free
Located in the center of Town Square Mall , the Children's Park is packed full of fun things for kids of all ages. There are tree houses, a small merry go round, a small splash pad, slides and more. But my favorite thing is the hedge maze. Brody had a blast running through it.

-Character Pictures
Outside of M&M World you can find a handful of characters waiting to take pictures with your kids (of course they want a few dollars for it). We saw Buzz Lightyear, Woody, Darth Vadar, Minnie Mouse, Elmo, Spiderman, Hello Kitty plus a few more.

Via

-Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay
The Shark Reef Aquarium is a little pricey (adult $18, children 5-12 $12, 4 and under free) but fun. The aquarium holds over 1.6 million gallons of water.

What fun kids things do you do in Las Vegas?

I am a Fan of Babiators Sunglasses

2011-12-15T06:00:00.071-07:00

Brody was so excited to find out he got a special package in the mail last week. Babiators sent him a pair of their cool sunglasses! He just loves sunglasses and wears them all the time. The problem is, they always break so easily but not these. Babiators are the most durable sunglasses he has had. That means I don't have to spend more money on another pair of sunglasses!

Babiators is so confident in the quality of their sunglasses that they offer a one year warranty.
I also love that they are BPA free and they offer UVA and UVB protection.

Babiators come in four colors; Black Ops Black, Blue Angels Blue, Rockstar Red and Princess Pink.
If you have kids, you should get them some Babiators!

Babiators provided the sunglasses to review but all opinions are my own.

Giveaway: Shabby Apple

2011-12-13T06:00:00.046-07:00

Today I have a great giveaway for you. I am giving away a skirt from Shabby Apple!

Shabby Apple sells women's dresses, skirts, girls dresses, maternity dresses and women's accessories and more.

One lucky Whatever DeeDee Wants reader will win

The Shabby Apple Andes Skirt!
Pictured below.

~~To enter like Shabby Apple on Facebook and fill out the form below~~
This giveaway is closed.
The winner is Emily. Congratulations!

Follow Whatever DeeDee Wants on Google Friend Connect
Like me on Facebook
Follow me on Twitter

Giveaway ends at midnight on December 19th

Winner will be notified by email
Winner will be chosen by Random.org
US residence only

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One Question Interviews

2011-12-12T06:00:00.003-07:00

I asked a few of my favorite Bloggers one questions and here are there answers.

What is your favorite holiday tradition?

Bird from Bird's Party Blog

My fave holiday tradition would be spending time with my kids baking seasonal treats.

We always make gingerbread cookies, British mince pies and rocky road every year, and is by far my fave time of the Holidays.

Sandy from Sandy a la Mode
My favorite holiday tradition is wrapping presents to give to others and opening presents!

Linda from Craftaholics Anonymous
Christmas Eve! We reenact the Christmas story, eat delicious finger foods {like 7 layer dip. yum!!}, drive around to look at Christmas lights, and exchange white elephant gifts. So much fun!!

Rebbecca from The Ardent Sparrow
My favorite holiday tradition is a relatively new one. For the past five years, we've spent Christmas Eve with our closest friends and their kids. We exchange gifts, enjoy a delicious feast, and relax...which is much enjoyed at the beginning of a few busy days! It's wonderful to choose personal and exciting gifts for friends we love so dearly....And even more so, to spend a peaceful evening, reflecting on the past year and enjoying one another's company! It's one of my favorite nights of the year!

Now it's your turn to tell me,
What is your favorite holiday tradition?

It's Just Another Stylin' Sunday

2011-12-11T22:14:00.000-07:00

I usually like to comb Brody's hair for church (that's why I call it church hair) but today he wanted "crazy hair" that's what he calls it if I don't comb and gel his hair.

Only a few more weeks and then Brody will be a Sunbeam.

Follower Giveaway

2011-12-10T05:00:00.004-07:00

Today I am hosting a special giveaway for my followers as a thank you for following my blog.

I will be giving away five copies of the book The Greatest Gift.

Graphic Image has recently re-released The Greatest Gift by Philip Van Doren Stern, the story behind the the classic film It's a Wonderful Life.

Philip Van Doren Stern set out to sell his short novella without a single instance of success. With little hope of anything at all, he printed 200 copies and sent them out as Christmas cards to friends and family in the winter of 1943. A few months later Philip received an offer to buy the movie rights.

This giveaway is closed.

The winners are:

Lisa

Mary Anne

April

Tara

Lori

Congratulations! I will be emailing you.

Mandatory entry: Follow me on Google Friend Connect then fill out the form below
~~Additional entries~~
~~Like me on Facebook~~
~~Follow me on Twitter~~

Giveaway ends at midnight on December 15th

Winners will be notified by email
Winners will be chosen by Random.org

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My Christmas Wish List

2011-12-09T06:00:00.038-07:00

What's on your Christmas wish list?

Victoria's Secret polka dot pjs

To Do This Winter

2011-12-08T06:00:00.031-07:00

What's on your winter to do list?

Rhodes Reuben Baked Braid

2011-12-07T08:30:00.029-07:00

Today I am guest posting over at the Rhodes Blog.

Stop by to see how to make this delicious Reuben Baked Braid.

It is seriously delicious!

Easy Canvas Prints and Family Photos

2011-12-05T06:00:00.045-07:00

I was approached by Easy Canvas Prints to review their services. Since we just had our family pictures taken I decided I wanted to put a family picture on canvas.
I was really surprised at their low canvas prices. Right now they are offering 25% off all canvas and free standard shipping.

The process was really easy (hence the name) and only took me a few minutes to create my canvas and checkout. I loved my canvas so much that I decided to order more when I saw the big Cyber Monday Sale. I can't wait to get them so I can hang them all together.

Don't judge the picture I took of my mantle, it's horrible.

Easy canvas Prints provided me with a canvas to review. All opinions are my own.

UPrinting Brochure Giveaway

2011-12-03T06:00:00.055-07:00

Today I am hosting a great giveaway from www.UPrinting.com.

www.UPrinting.com is giving away

50 piece brochure printing to One lucky winner!

Details:

8.5" x 11"

100lb Paper Gloss

With Folding

Front and Back Printing

There are so many uses for brochures. you can use them for your Etsy shop, make a fun Christmas card, create a brochure for your house for sale, etc.

To enter fill out the form below and like the UPrinting Brochure page by clicking the button below.

Additional entries
Like UPrinting on Facebook

Tweet the following: I want a chance to win brochures from @whateverdeedee and @UPrinting. Check http://www.uprinting.com/brochure-printing.html!

Follow Whatever DeeDee Wants on Google Friend Connect
Like me on Facebook
Follow me on Twitter

Giveaway ends at midnight on December 9th

Winner will be notified by email
Winner will be chosen by Random.org
Giveaway is open to US residents only 18 and older.

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This is a sponsored post by UPrinting.

Fotofly Family Pictures

2011-12-02T06:00:00.080-07:00

A few weeks ago we took our first family pictures (unless you count wedding pictures). I had a free certificate to FotoFly from the Cupcake Conference over a year ago and decided I should finally use it.

I was so impressed with FotoFly that I want to tell you about them.

First off, they have amazing prices. There is no sitting fee, you simply pay $79 for a CD with images from your session plus you get the copyright. You don't have to buy prints from them but if you want to, the cost is as little as $4 a sheet. Score!

Another reason I loved FotoFly is the staff. They were all great to work with! Our photographer, Jordan posed Brody and got him to play and smile. Before the session I was a little worried that Brody wouldn't smile or cooperate but Jordan made that easy. We didn't have to do a thing.

I also love FotoFly's studio! There are so many different background options. They have a variety of furniture to use, props, etc. They make family pictures easy!

You can see a few of our pictures below.

FotoFly
121 East 12300 South , Draper

(801) 727-FOTO

Shabby Apple Dress Giveaway!

2011-12-01T06:00:00.074-07:00

Who wants to win a dress? Today I am giving away a Shabby Apple dress!

Shabby Apple is one of my favorite online dress shops! The dresses are fun and modest which is a big plus in my book. I especially love all the vintage inspired dresses.
www.shabbyapple.com also sells little girl's dresses and maternity dresses.

To receive special promotions and discounts you can simply like Shabby Apple on Facebook.

Shabby Apple is offering 10% off for Whatever DeeDee Wants readers
now through December 24th.

Coupon code: WHATEVERDEEDEEWANTS10OFF

And now on to the giveaway,

one lucky Whatever DeeDee Wants reader will
win the Boogie Woogie dress pictured below.

This giveaway is closed.

The winner is Larissa Zitman!

~~To enter fill out the form below~~

Bonus entries
Follow this blog on Google Friend Connect
Like me on Facebook
Follow me on Twitter
Like Shabby Apple on Facebook

Giveaway ends at midnight on December 7th

Winner will be notified by email
Winner will be chosen by Random.org
Giveaway is open to US residents only.
No exchanges on the winning dress.

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In Case You Missed It

2011-11-30T06:00:00.003-07:00

Cookie Exchange Party Kit Giveaway!

2011-11-29T06:00:00.002-07:00

Just in time for the holiday season DownEast is giving away this darling cookie exchange kit!
It's the perfect kit to host your own cookie exchange or to give as a gift.

The kits can be found in Utah and Idaho downEast stores for the low price of $4.99 or online at the DownEast Basics website.

With this kit one will be able to:
* Invite up to 12 friends to a Cookie Exchange Party during the HToliday Season.
* As the Party Host, write ones own recipe to give to each of the other guests.
* Display ID Recipe Cards describing the cookies and name of who baked them in front of each plate of cookies.
* Package the Cookies in the Cellophane Bags, along with a Gift Tag and Ribbon to secure them.
* Further decorate the bags with the stickers, or use them to give out to guests and to the cookie contest winners (1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th place cookies).

This giveaway is closed.

The winner is April V!

~~To enter fill out the form below~~

Bonus entries
Follow this blog on Google Friend Connect
Like me on Facebook
Follow me on Twitter
Like DownEast on Facebook

Giveaway ends at midnight on Sunday, December 4th
Winner will be notified by email
Winner will be chosen by Random.org
US residents only

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DownEast has provided me with compensation for this post. ALL opinions are my own.

Rhodes Bake N Serv Blogger Demo

2011-11-28T07:00:00.022-07:00

A few weeks ago I went to the Rhodes Bake N Serv kitchen for a Bloggers demo. It is no secret that I am a big fan of Rhodes, I even blog for them.
I always love going to the Rhodes demos. The instructor Heidi is so knowledgeable and is a fun teacher plus she bakes delicious treats for everyone to eat. The Rhodes demos are really inexpensive, just a few dollars per person. If you live in Utah, I recommend going to a demo.

One of my favorite things from the demo was learning how to make the Baked Reuben Braid. I loved it so much I made one the next day (I will show you how to make one soon).

It was fun chatting with all the Bloggers too.

Julie, Yvonne, Kelli

Lisa, Ashlee

Stephanie, Joanie, April

Cute girl (I didn't get her name), Victoria, Cute girl (I didn't get her name) , Kathy

Ryley, Emily, Jill

The Or So She Says girls

Plus a few more I didn't get pictures of.

Thanks for the fun night!

It's Just Another Stylin' Sunday

2011-11-27T12:30:00.001-07:00

I love all of Brody's little vintage suits. This one belongs to his cousin and is about 25 years old.

Don't mind the little water mark on the blazer.

Backyard Discovery Giveaway on Facebook

2011-11-26T07:05:00.001-07:00

Have you heard about the amazing giveaway from Backyard Discovery?

One grand prize winner will receive one Oxford Play Set and one Cedar Chateau Playhouse.

All you have to do to enter is simply like Backyard Discovery on Facebook. Easy right?

You can see all the swing sets and backyard set on www.swingsetsonline.com.

See official rules here.

Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T07:00:00.021-07:00

Happy Thanksgiving!

I will be spending the day with my family.
We will have breakfast with Travis' parents and dinner with my parents.
I hope I will be able to squeeze a long nap in between.

What are your plans today?

Give Thanks Giveaway: Earth Cookie Creations

2011-11-23T06:30:00.002-07:00

Today's giveaway is from Earth Cookie Creations. They have a fun collection of party goods, Gifts, holiday goods and more.
Owner, Jessica designs favor eco-friendly and USA made products. You can follow her blog, Blabberings of a Craft-A-Holic to keep up to date on all her creations.

You can find fun Christmas items in the shop right now.

I love these Christmas cards and count down to Christmas garland.

One lucky reader will will $10 to

the Earth Cookie Creations shop!

This giveaway is closed.

The winner is Sarah Atnip!

To enter fill out the form below

Bonus entries
Follow this blog on Google Friend Connect
Like me on Facebook
Follow me on Twitter

Giveaway ends at midnight on Tuesday, November 29th
Winner will be notified by email
Winner will be chosen by Random.org

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Giveaway: Graphic Image Leather Phone Case

2011-11-22T06:00:00.053-07:00

Have you heard about Graphic Image? I have been a big fan of Graphic Image for a while now.
They carry top of the line leather notebooks, date books, accessories and more.
Graphic Image has generously offered to sponsor today's giveaway.

Graphic Image is giving away one

Universal Leather Phone Case to one lucky reader!

Graphic image is also giving Whatever DeeDee Wants readers 20% off

your entire purchase

Use coupon code: THANKS

Graphic Image website. Facebook. Twitter

This giveaway is closed.

The winner is Kelli.

~~To enter fill out the form below~~

Bonus entries
Follow this blog on Google Friend Connect
Like me on Facebook
Follow me on Twitter
Like Graphic Image on Facebook
Follow Graphic Image on Twitter

Giveaway ends at midnight on Monday, November 28th

Winner will be notified by email
Winner will be chosen by Random.org

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Give Thanks: Thanksgiving Table Settings

2011-11-21T06:00:00.030-07:00

Keersten from Leap Into Art

Hi there! I am Keersten from Leap Into Art. I am an art teacher

and mommy to 3 crazy little girls. (Yes, we are swimming in pink at our house!) I share art projects to do with your kids and sometimes by yourself, along with our girlie adventures and some of my favorite recipes.

I think the holidays are a time when we are all feeling a little lean (at least in the wallet--I can only hope for the skinny jeans!) So, here are 3 ways to trim your table without shelling out much green. First of all, take a look around at what you have in your cupboards and start imagining a way to work with what you've already got. Serving trays and bowls are great, baskets and even cups and mugs can make a great foundation for a fun centerpiece. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Keep it simple-the food and the company should be the stars of this
meal, your awesome table is the whipped cream on your pie.
Let the conversation flow-tall centerpieces make it hard for people
to see each other and lively debate is what will make the dinner fun.
Keep it under 12", but lower than that is certainly better.
Make it yours-don't be a slave to tradition or seasonal stereotypes.
If you don't want pumpkins or fall leaves, then leave them off the
table, these ideas will certainly translate to other objects. If you've
always wanted your own cornucopia, then by all means, go for it!
Keep it in proportion-don't forget to leave room on the table for
the meal.
Lessen the stress-I'd like to embroider this on a pillow and have
someone repeatedly hit me with it during the prep for big events like
Thanksgiving. It doesn't have to be perfect. No one expects it to be and
only you will notice that it isn't the magazine picture that you see in
your head. Your friends and family are there to be together. The meal
you are working so hard on will be eaten and gone, the table will be
cleared away; but what will last is the memory. So take a deep breath,
laugh at the things that go wrong and try to enjoy yourself (because
isn't that more fun for everyone anyway?) Okay, now the ideas:

refresh the traditional:

You can't go wrong keeping it classic. One of the best things about using a traditional scheme is how easy and inexpensive it can be to create something fun. Once you have found possible containers, head to the produce section and grab a few mini pumpkins and gourds. Take a nature walk with a grocery sack to get the rest of your frills. Autumn leaves, branches with berries, nuts and acorns can be found all over and will come together to give you the perfect palate to set off that big bird on the platter.

I love to break away from the expected table cloth; it's a great way to give instant interest. Cut a length of burlap in half or thirds to make a couple of table runners. (Thin enough to leave a strip of the table surface showing in the center.) You can pull a few threads out to fringe the edges. Line them with the outside edges of the table to make essentially a table long place mat. Then set out your bowl or basket and arrange the gourds inside, now fill it in with leaves.

You can tie napkins with some twine and lay them on the plates with an acorn "place card." (Just use a Sharpie with a good point to write the initial or first name of your guests on an acorn.)

get crafty:

After you have picked up some pumpkins and found something to display them on; you can get to work setting your own personal style on the table. Here I have spray painted the gourds with ivory then added chevrons to one of the pumpkins. To give it a distressed look, I used acrylic craft paint and kept the brush dry, adding only a little paint to the brush at a time. To make the chevrons, simply slant a line diagonally across each section of the pumpkin, up then down, up then down, etc. This technique would also work well with other colors of paint. You could do a variety of colored strips and polka dots to create a whimsical kid-inspired table.

I cut burlap into long strips and laid them across the table for each place setting. This looks great in several fabrics and is a unique way to create something more interesting (and less expensive-yay!) than a place mat. You could also lay wide strips of ribbon running both ways on the table to give it flare.

go glam:

Following the same technique as above, spray the pumpkins with a couple of layers of metallic spray paint. Keep the overall arrangement fairly simple, adding one or two colors of fall leaves or nestling the pumpkins in with votive candles. This arrangement will definitely be memorable!
You could also add some glitter if you like to take it over the top.
Spray leaves with the same shade of spray paint and write your guest's names with a sharpie to create a fun place card. It is best to use leaves that are still supple for this and do it no more than a few days
before the feast so they don't crumble when handled. Whatever you choose to do, enjoy! That is what the day is all about.

Give Thanks: Thanksgiving Toppers

2011-11-20T07:30:00.000-07:00

Lauralee from Yellow Mums

Hi there!
I'm Lauralee.
I blog over at YellowMums and I'm excited to be part of this awesome Give Thanks event!

Today I'm sharing some fun Thanksgiving Toppers. Click here to download the free printable. Great as cupcake toppers. . . but also great for lots of other things. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

1. Dress up a canning jar with a LABEL for jams/jellies or a mini pie perhaps?

2. Make a CENTERPIECE. I did this one by taping the toppers to skewers and poking them into the top of a pumpkin. Then I stuck a bunch of . . . rye grass maybe? (I found it in the weeds over by the dumpster on the corner ;) Poke holes with a skewer and stick them in and finish with a jute bow at the base.

3. Create a NAPKIN RING with a piece of string and a topper hole punched. Add some sort of plant filler to round it out--maybe use something fake (not like me ;)

4. Use as a TAG for favor bags, gifts, or presents.

enjoy!! And have a wonderful Thanksgiving!!

Christmas Door Hanger

2011-11-20T05:00:00.003-07:00

Today I am going to show you a fun Christmas door hanger that would make a fun gift. You can leave one on your neighbor's front door or perhaps you could put one on the bedroom door of your family members.
I love that each door hanger you make can be personalized.

Lets get started.

Supplies: paper or cardstock, marker, scissors, hole punch, ribbon, Glue Lines Glue Dots®

Step 1. Fold paper in half

Step 2. With the fold at the bottom write Merry Christmas on the paper with the marker

(I printed mine on the computer)

Step 3. Using the hole punch, cut a hole in the two top corners

Step 4. Open the paper and place Glue Lines Glue Dots® along the inside of the side egdes, close and press firmly

Step 5. Thread the ribbon through the two holes and tie a knot on each side

Fill with gifts and goodies

Filling ideas: chapstick, candy, Christmas card, notebook, pens and pencils, small toys, a bag of nuts, Candy canes, photos, movie tickets, an ornament, the possibilities are endless

I wrote this blog post while participating on the Glue Dots® Design Team.

Santa Beard on a Stick

2011-11-19T14:00:00.005-07:00

Today I am over at I Heart Nap Time for the Crazy Christmas Crafters.

I am sharing an easy tutorial on how to make your own Santa beard on a stick.

I hope you will stop by.

I wrote this blog post while participating on the Glue Dots® Design Team.

Give Thanks- Pumpkin Sugar Cookies

2011-11-19T06:00:00.003-07:00

Kelly from Eat Yourself Skinny

Hello there lovely readers of Whatever Dee-Dee Wants! I’m Kelly from Eat Yourself Skinny and I was so excited when Miss Dianna asked me to be a part of her Give Thanks Series!

Ok so I must tell you…I absolutely love Thanksgiving. It’s a time to spend with friends and loved ones, a time to bundle up in cute scarves and boots and take pictures in the leaves, and a time to enjoy really, really delicious food! Yeah you know what I mean, the usual turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, Grandma’s signature green bean casserole, etc. But what about the fun desserts??

Friends I give you my delicious {lightened up version} of Pumpkin Sugar Cookies! I had so much fun making these and was really surprised at how simple they were. To make them “skinnier”, I used egg whites and substituted the sugar with Splenda Sugar Blend which lowered the calories tremendously. Since there is already a lot of sugar used to make the icing, Splenda works perfect for your cookies! Oh and speaking of icing…if you’ve ever heard of piping and flooding Royal Icing then you know how gorgeous cookies turn out when using that method. And you also know how daunting the task can be if you’ve never tried it. Yikes.

I’ll admit this was my very first attempt at making {and using} Royal Icing, but truth be told I LOVED it!! I, of course, went to the Queen of cookie decorating herself, Bridget from Bake at 350, for help and found some amazing tutorials! This made the process so much easier and I’m happy to share that knowledge now with all of you.

The end result?

Super cute pumpkin cookies fit for any special gathering or holiday party. They also make great gifts! I brought mine to work for all my co-workers and everyone loved them.

Now onto the recipe.

Here are your ingredients:

Recipe adapted from Cooking Light and Sugar Crafter

Cookies

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 tsp. baking powder

1/4 tsp. salt

1 cup granulated sugar

10 Tbsp. light butter, softened

1 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract

2 large egg whites

Royal Icing

1 lb. powdered sugar

5 Tbsp. meringue powder

Scant 1/2 cup water

1 tsp. corn syrup (makes the icing shiny)

To make the cookies, lightly spoon flour into dry measuring cups and level with a knife. Combine flour, baking powder, and salt, stirring well with a whisk. Place granulated sugar and butter in a large bowl; beat with a mixer at medium speed until light and fluffy. Beat in 1 1/2 tsp. of vanilla and egg whites. Gradually add flour mixture to butter mixture, beating at low speed just until combined. Divide dough in half and shape each dough half into a ball and wrap in plastic wrap. Chill for about an hour.

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Unwrap one dough ball and press dough into a 4-inch circle on heavy-duty plastic wrap. Cover with additional plastic wrap. Roll dough, still covered, to a 1/4 inch thickness {this is important because if your cookies are too thin they’ll be crunchy and not soft}. Using your cookie cutter, cut dough into 18 cookies. Place cookies 2 inches apart on baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Bake at 375 for 10 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool on pans for about 5 minutes and repeat the process with the remaining dough half.

To prepare the icing, please refer to Bridget’s wonderful tutorial on how to make Royal Icing and tips for decorating. I can’t take the credit for her wonderful work! Once your cookies are dry, mix a bit of meringue powder and water together and, using a paint brush, paint lines onto your pumpkin with the mixture and sprinkle with sprinkles. You will be amazed at how easy the sprinkles stay on! This technique is perfect for any cookie!

Don’t forget to buy cute little gift bags and ribbon to package these for your friends and family, trust me they will love them!

Thanks again Dianna for inviting me to your Give Thanks Series! For more skinny recipes, or even just to say “HI”, feel free to stop by my blog any ‘ole time!

XOXO

Give Thanks- Thankful Cards

2011-11-18T06:00:00.002-07:00

Mollie from Wild Olive

Hello, Readers of Whatever Dee Dee wants {she's gonna get it}!
This is Mollie from Wild Olive. I love making things, cuteness, Jesus, and this time of year, Thanksgiving. It's pretty much my all time favorite holiday.

When families gather together, they often share a tradition of going
around the table and telling what they are thankful for. It's funny,
but I don't remember ever doing that on Thanksgiving at my house.
Instead, we talk about this on a regular basis...all year 'round. But
whether you think about thankfulness one time a year, or every single
day, why not write those things down to remember always?

These printable cards each have a thankful phrase to get you and your
family or friends started thinking about what you're most grateful
for. Print a bunch and set one at every place setting, or keep them
around to jot down your daily moments of thanksgiving!

Download
the printable PDF file here.

Thanks, Dee Dee for having me, and I hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Give Thanks: Three Day Coconut Cake

2011-11-17T06:00:00.002-07:00

Shannon from Dinner or Dessert

Hi, I'm Shannon from Dinner or Dessert and am so excited to be guest posting for Dee Dee as a part of the Give Thanks blog event!

I look forward to Thanksgiving every year. I have to admit one of the reasons is because it means I can listen to Christmas music without people thinking I'm crazy. But really it's because I get to see my family and remind them how much I love them! Oh and the good food is always an added bonus.

Every Thanksgiving my family meets at my grandparents house in Nashville, TN to eat our hearts out. But with every holiday dinner comes a lot of work. My grandma starts planning the menu months in advance and then there's the grocery shopping, preparing the food and making sure it all comes out hot at the same time. When you only have one oven, it seems like there is never enough time or space to get it all done in time. Well this coconut cake gives you one less course to stress about because you make it three days ahead of time. It is the best coconut cake I've ever had and is a perfect Thanksgiving dessert because it needs to sit in the fridge for three days before serving! It is a four layer white cake, layered with a sweet coconut mixture that seeps into the cake, topped with coconut cool whip frosting and flaked coconut. It is so flavorful and oozes with coconut flavor without being one bit soggy. Try it, you will love it!

Three-Day Coconut Cake

1 box of white cake mix

16 oz. sour cream

12 oz. frozen coconut, thawed (in the frozen fruit aisle)

2 c. sugar

1 8 oz. container of cool whip

1 bag of flaked coconut

for the cake:

Preheat the oven to 350°F.

Prepare cake mix according to the box and spread between two 9-inch round cake pans. Bake according to the box. Once the cakes have cooled, split each 9- inch round to make a total of 4 layers.

for the coconut mixture:

While the cake is baking, blend together the sugar, thawed coconut and sour cream and chill for at least 20 minutes. Set one cup of this mixture aside to mix with the frosting. Layer about 1 1/2 cups of the mixture between each cake layer.

for the frosting:

Blend together 2 cups of cool whip and the 1 c. of coconut mixture you set aside. Frost the cake and then sprinkle the top and sides of the cake with coconut flakes.

Cover and refrigerate cake for 3 days.

Give Thanks: Leaf Garland

2011-11-16T06:00:00.008-07:00

Allison from Little Lovelies

My name is Allison and I blog at little lovelies. 

 I am so happy that I was invited to be a part of this Give Thanks event!

I am a wife and full time working mom, and I love to create in my spare time. It's my "me" time and it brings me a bit of peace in my otherwise hectic life. I have been blogging for less than a year, but creating things for as long as I can remember. Isn't that the story with most of us crafty folk? Here are a few of my favorite projects you can find on my blog:

1, 2, 3, 4

On to what you are all here for - a project.

We are planning on having Thanksgiving at my house this year, so I wanted to make something to add a bit to the decor.

It is such a simple project, but I love the pop of color it gives to our front sun room. 

I started with a sale $5 wired garland from Hobby Lobby. I didn't really like the wires, and it was only six feet long, so I had to make it work (said in my best Tim Gunn voice). I just cut the individual leaves off.

After cutting off the leaves, I sewed them together in a long line, overlapping the leaves about one inch.

I used a light yellow thread that really stood out against the red leaves. It wasn't a huge deal, but I can't leave well enough alone, so I used a brown marker to "color" the thread so it really blends in. You can skip this part, but I wanted the thread to be more hidden.

We have these hanging on our porch and over our curtain rods around the house. I love bringing the look of the outdoors in, and I love the festive feel it adds to our home.

Thank you so much for having me! Happy Thanksgiving!

I would love for all of you to come visit little lovelies, say hi, and browse around. You can also find me on facebook and pinterest - I'd love to get to know you better!

Give Thanks: Pumpkin Cake

2011-11-15T07:05:00.001-07:00

Elizabeth from Simple Simon & Company

Hi. I am Elizabeth from Simple Simon and Company, where I blog with my sister-in-law who shares the same name. We both blog about crafting and sewing, especially vintage anything....but we love to add modern twists to make it new again!

I know that anyone who knows us is expecting some great sewing project....but I just can't let this season of Thanksgiving pass without sharing the BEST {and easiest} Pumpkin Cake recipe that I have ever found.
It really is the most pumpkinny (ok...I know it's not a word), moist and best cake ever. I crave it. A lot, especially this time of year.
And now I am sharing this easy, and fast recipe with you today.

Grandma Lova's Pumpkin Cake Recipe
1 yellow cake mix {see I told you it was easy}
1/2 cup of water
1 egg
2 cups of canned pumpkin
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
2 teaspoons cinnamon
Mix all of the ingredients with your mixer until smooth. Pour into a greased 9 x 13 pan and bake at 350 degrees for 25 -30 minutes....until a toothpick comes out clean.
Frosting
1 can vanilla frosting
1 oz brick of cream cheese softened
Mix frosting, and frost cooled cake {if you can wait that long}. Serve immediately. Refridgerate leftovers.
Ok, I know that some of you are thinking that with a box cake mix and canned frosting that it can't be that good...but I PROMISE you that it is. You will be dreaming about this cake.
{And I may or may not have been eating this cake for breakfast almost every day this week. It's even better the next day out of the fridge. Just sayin'}

Thanks for having us.....I am excited to see all of the other "Give Thanks" events going on {and will probably be pinning most of them}!

Old Navy Giveaway from Utah Sweet Savings

2011-11-15T05:00:00.039-07:00

This time of the year usually stresses me out. I start thinking about all the presents I need to buy and how much money I need. But not this year, because I know about Utah Sweet Savings.

Utah Sweet Savings is a website dedicated to finding the best deals out there. The deals they find are updated daily and if you're searching for something in particular, they have the shopping categories conveniently listed for you.
Make sure to check out the new Christmas deal center full of discounts on all things Christmas, who couldn't use that?

You don't have to live in Utah to take advantage of Utah Sweet Savings, they regularly feature stores like Walmart, Rite Aid, Amazon and Target and more.

Utah Sweet Savings is giving away a

$25 Old Navy gift card to one lucky winner!

This giveaway is closed.

The winner is Melissa!

To enter fill out the form below

Bonus entries
Follow this blog on Google Friend Connect
Like me on Facebook
Follow me on Twitter
Like Utah Sweet Savings on Facebook
Follow Utah Sweet Savings on Twitter

Giveaway ends at midnight on November Monday 21st

Winner will be notified by email
Winner will be chosen by Random.org

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Give Thanks: Fall Fashion

2011-11-14T08:00:00.003-07:00

Jackie from Sweetie Pie Style

It's already that time of year to start shopping for family holiday outfits! Be it for family photos for your Christmas cards, Thanksgiving dinner or a holiday party, there are plenty of events where you will want your family to look coordinated and polished. For some inspiration, I have created looks for a family of four: mom, dad, brother and sister. I like to go with a unified color scheme, so here I have chosen shades of gray and purple.

Mom:

coat, dress, tights, ring, earrings, purse

Dad:

Blazer, sweater, plaid shirt, tweed pants, shoes

Girl:

top, skirt, necklace, tights, shoes

Boy:

shirt, tie, jeans, shoes

I hope that gives you some ideas for your family! Come visit me at my blog Sweetie Pie Style for daily posts on fashion, interiors and lifestyle! Thank you Dianna for having me participate in your Give Thanks series!

Give Thanks Giveaway: Garnish

2011-11-14T06:00:00.072-07:00

I am excited to tell you about today's giveaway! Today's giveaway is from Garnish, one of my favorite shops! I am always in awe of their ideas. Whether it's a clever table setting, a pretty package, the details for a party or a boxed lunch, I love it! Garnish is all about adding the special details to pretty much everything, and who doesn't love that?

Now through December 23rd Garnish is offering $6 flat shipping on all new orders in the USA.

Garnish even has a blog where they share their fun ideas.

Below are some of my favorite Garnish ideas.

Christmas table setting

Gingerbread house party

Garnish a front porch

Soup swap

One lucky Whatever DeeDee Wants reader

will win $25 to Garnish!

This giveaway is closed.

The winner is Natalie Wahl!

~~To enter fill out the form below~~

Bonus entries
Follow this blog on Google Friend Connect
Like me on Facebook
Like me on Twitter

Giveaway ends at midnight on Saturday, November 19th

Winner will be notified by email
Winner will be chosen by Random.org

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Give Thanks: Fashion

2011-11-13T06:00:00.008-07:00

Teresa from Teresa: Life and Style

I am super happy to be guesting here at Whatever Dee Wants! If you don’t know me, I am Teresa from Teresa: Life and Style and this time of year is probably my most favorite. I don’t have a whole lot of family so the holiday season is the time where we all come together – even if not in person, we talk more… we laugh more and on top of all that… I get to see my sweetie J’s family too (I love them as if they were my very own!)

My blog is daily outfit driven so if you stop by and like it – you will see lots of daily outfits, celebrity inspired looks and outfits that I remix so that I can save a little money! Check it out, I’d love to meet you and get to know you better J

Since this is the Give Thanks series, I think it only right that I tell you all what I am thankful for:

· Happiness. Everyday there is something to be happy about, even the bad days have something good. Whether it be a glass of wine to unwind, a funny tv show, or a lesson learned…

· Less is More! I am on a journey to do a lot less (spending/procrastinating/judging/being lazy!) and its really amazing how much more aware you can be when you do “less” and start experience more out of life.

· Family. Family is so important to me, I have a tiny family but it’s MINE, my boyfriend has a much larger family and I love them all so much, I am so lucky that I get to call them my family too.

· J. If you read my blog, you know J – He is basically my everything and I love him so much. He is my strength and my world and I am truly grateful that God brought us together.

· Blogging. This ~~little~~ ginormous network of bloggers is something that I don’t think I could live without… it’s a perfect support system, we love each other and help each other, its like a myriad of best friends and extended family that I love so so much.

· The Moshi. Of course I cannot leave her out – she is my stray cat rescue and he brighten every single day… pets are amazing and if you don’t have one now, look into adopting a rescue pet from a shelter, pound, or person who you may know that cannot care for their pet. They are simply the most rewarding most loving and most wonderful creatures on this planet (aside from children – I don’t have any yet.)

Happy Thanksgiving everyone, I am so happy to have had the chance to get to meet you all and just want to say one more thing… Happy holidays, love each other, and thanks Dee for letting me participate in your Give Thanks series!

xoxo Teresa

Give Thanks: Thanks Banner Tutorial

2011-11-12T06:00:00.001-07:00

Larissa from Just Another Day in Paradise

Hey Everyone! I am so happy to be over here at Whatever Dee-Dee Wants. My name is Larissa

and I can be found over at Just Another Day in Paradise. I share crafts, sewing projects, recipes,

parties, everyday momma drama stories, and little bits of my fun little life living with all boys.

I LOVE Thanksgiving and I couldn't be happier to share this easy Thanksgiving

decor project.

I love Thanksgiving because of what it represents. Being Thankful.

So today I have a little tutorial for a Thanksgiving banner that will remind you every time you see it to give thanks.

You need:

1 yard of muslin
1/2 yard each of 2 fall prints
1 yard of 1 fall print (this will be for 2 letters and the top binding)
coordinating thread
letters printed out and cut out in a font and size of choice ( I used Calvin and Hobbes)

Cut out 12 rectangles from the muslin, measuring 11" x 10". Two rectangles per letter.

Once you have the letters cut out, trace each letter facing backwards on the back of the fabric. Two letters per each print.

Once all the letters are cut out, pin and sew each letter to one muslin piece. I placed my letters in the center towards the bottom.

Once each letter is sewn on. Pin each piece to a blank muslin rectangle right sides facing.

Sew around the edges with a 1/2" seam allowance, leaving a small hole at the top. Turn out. Iron flat.

To make the top binding you will need a strip of chosen fabric measuring about 86" long by 4" wide. I did sew together two pieces together so I didn't need yards of my chosen print.

I took the strip and ironed it in half along the entire length. Then each edge ironed into meet the half mark. Then folded in half one more time...basically making your own binding...feel free to make this step easier and just buy wide double fold quilting binding in a coordinating color.

Find the center point of your binding. Pin your "a" and your "n" 1 1/2" apart with the half point directly in the middle. Pin each piece with the top of the rectangle directly into the fold.

Continue to pin each letter in order, 1 1/2" apart.

To sew the binding, start at one edge, sewing along the short edge then turning to sew along the entire bottom length of the binding, sewing the banner pieces in place.

You can either leave the edges as is, or you can fold over an make a loop to hang it by.

Now you have a festive banner you can hang up to beautify your house and help you reflect on what you can give thanks for.

There ya have it! Happy Thanksgiving!

Thanks Dee Dee for having me! Whatever Dee Dee Wants readers I would love for you to stop by my blog and say hi.

Give Thanks: Dinner in a Pumpkin

2011-11-11T06:00:00.000-07:00

Rachel from Maybe Matilda

Hi! My name's Rachel and I'm from the blog Maybe Matilda, where I love sharing my crochet and sewing projects. I thought I'd branch out a little today and put down my fabric and yarn for a minute to show you a fun Fall recipe . . .

One of my very favorite things about the Thanksgiving season is pumpkin recipes. True story: I once spent 45 minutes driving from one grocery store to the next searching for canned pumpkin because I was dying to make some pumpkin bread--my entire town must have been craving it just as much as I was, so I've tried to keep a little stock of it ever since so I can make pumpkin muffins, cookies, and pancakes on a whim.

But did you know you can actually cook a dinner inside of a pumpkin? It makes for a delicious, flavorful dinner that's so fun to serve during the Fall. It's quick and easy to pull together, and is such a hearty meal for chilly autumn evenings! I got this recipe from a friend of my mother-in-law's, and I expect it's going to become a fall tradition at our house.

Dinner in a Pumpkin
4 to 5 pound pumpkin (if you're choosing your pumpkin based on the size of the one in these pictures, don't! Mine was much too big and almost didn't fit in my oven, but it seduced me with it's adorable tall skinny shape . . . I'm a sucker for tall, skinny pumpkins.)
1 pound ground beef or turkey (I use ground turkey--it's cheaper, healthier, and so tasty!)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 yellow onion, chopped
1 cup uncooked rice (it'll cook inside the pumpkin)
4 tablespoons butter, divided
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary (or more--I love rosemary, so I used more like 1 full teaspoon)
1 can petite diced tomatoes
2 cups beef broth
1/2 cup shredded Cheddar cheese (optional)

Get started by washing off the outside of your pumpkin and cutting off the top. Scoop out the innards, just as if you were going to carve it as a jack-o-lantern. I find that an ice cream scoop or metal measuring cup makes for easy pumpkin gut scooping! Make sure you scrape off all the icky stringy fibers from the pumpkin's inner walls. Melt two tablespoons butter and brush inside pumpkin (I like to just pour it down the inside walls of the pumpkin and swirl it to coat), and sprinkle with some salt. Place the pumpkin in a shallow baking dish.

In a large skillet, saute ground beef/turkey, onion, garlic, and rice in two tablespoons butter until browned. Add remaining ingredients (except cheese) and bring to a boil. Pour this mixture into the pumpkin, and replace the pumpkin's lid.

Bake at 350 for about 1 1/2 hours or until the pumpkin flesh inside is tender. Uncover the pumpkin, add the cheese, and return to the oven for 5 minutes to melt. Serve it up, scraping some of the pumpkin pulp out with each serving.

(See? I told you my pumpkin was too big !) It's not the most picturesque, photo-worthy filling, but mmmmm, it sure is tasty! It's so thick and warm and tasty, and feels like the perfect supper to eat before Thanksgiving.

I hope you enjoy! Thanks for inviting me to be a part of the Give Thanks series, and I hope you'll come visit me at Maybe Matilda!

Give Thanks: Free Printable Thanksgiving Gathering Printable Set

2011-11-10T06:00:00.001-07:00

Kirsten from Embellish

Hello again! I'm so glad to be back to share with you my Thanksgiving printables set. Thanksgiving has to be my absolute FAVORITE holiday ever! Nothing beats family gathering together, cooking the day away and then being able to devour all of the yummy goodness. Seriously, does it get any better? So, that brings me to my printables...

In this set I've included the following:

folding name cards & thankful chain prints.

I envision these thankful chain printables being printed onto different shades of brown cardstock and taped together draping over the kid's table.

fill-in menu cards & 6 different traditional pie labels as well as blank pie labels if you bake up something unusual and yummy.

traditional Thanksgiving food label cards

12" x 16" children's activity place mat

With my in-laws coming into town for the holidays I'm looking forward to hosting my first Thanksgiving dinner and will definitely be using these printables to add to the overall decor of the day. Hope everyone has a relaxing and enjoyable day filled with lots of turkey and family.

To view the entire Thanksgiving printables set and/or download your very own copy go HERE.

Unfortunately, to download the children's activity place mat you will need to email me at kirstenfuller{at}gmail{dot}com. Scribd doesn't allow uploads of JPEG or PNG files. :(

Also, don't forget to check out Embellish for loads of fun and FREE printables.

Give Thanks Announcement

2011-11-09T06:00:00.000-07:00

Last year I started a Give Thanks Series on my blog. Because it was so fun I decided to continue with the Give Thanks Series! We will be kicking off the Thanksgiving fun Tomorrow morning. Until then, you can check out the fun from last year here.

I hope you have a great day!

DownEast $500 Home Design Sweepstakes

2011-11-08T07:34:00.036-07:00

Have you heard about the big DownEast $500 Design Sweepstakes?

Now through December 9th you can enter to win a $500 DownEast gift card

for decor home decor items to spruce up your house this holiday.

You can get all the details here.

DownEast

Facebook . Blog

In Case You Missed It

2011-11-07T06:00:00.002-07:00

In case you missed it, here are a few things I have posted during the last few weeks.

Thanksgiving turkey treat bag tutorial

University of Utah free party printables

White vinegar tips

Printable poem

Fall leaf mobile tutorial

Clam chowder recipe

South Western chicken soup recipe

Brody's matador costume

Printable Walt Disney quote

Simple mask tutoiral

What have you been up to?

Three Years Old

2011-11-06T07:00:00.040-07:00

My baby turned three years old today!

This last year has been a big year!

Brody mastered potty training
Learned how to ride a bike (with training wheels)
He insists on saying the family prayer every night
Can sing along with Britney Spears

Says please and thank you (most of the time)
He loves calling me DeeDee or Deedles and calls his dad Travee
His obsession with cars grows every day

Brody likes throwing up the "rock on" sign
He is very stubborn just like his mama
He loves playing with his cousins and friends
Brody loves snuggling on the couch to watch his favorite movies
He's always wanting to help me cook

Happy birthday Brody!

3 weeks. 1 year. 2 years

Birthday Cake

2011-11-04T06:00:00.004-06:00

Brody's birthday is in a few days so I have been looking for ideas for fun birthday cakes.
Here are some fun ones I found. What do you think?

Via

Reading List

2011-11-02T06:00:00.001-06:00

I have recently read

I am reading

I am going to read

What are you reading?

The Last Halloween Post

2011-11-01T08:16:00.000-06:00

Ok, no more Halloween posts for 2011 after this.

I just wanted to show my niece Leah's cute Minnie Mouse costume.

Leah and Brody are best friends. Leah wanted Brody to be Mickey Mouse for Halloween.

Now just one more of my cute bull fighter.

We are on a little trip right now so we spent part of Halloween at the aquarium.

Brody has been a little sick so we didn't make it trick or treating.

The sharks loved his costume though.

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T06:00:00.004-06:00

I hope you have a safe and Happy Halloween!

You can get this printable for free from Craftily Ever After.

Fun Nails

2011-10-29T06:00:00.002-06:00

My niece is constantly painting my other niece's nails. I think she has a new color or design on every week.
I thought I would share some fun nail designs for her (and you).

Via

Movies

2011-10-28T06:00:00.012-06:00

Here are a few movies I watched recenlty.

Have you seen any of them?

That's What I Am was pretty dang cute.

Something Borrowed was okay (I'm not a huge Kate Hudson fan these days).

I thought the Adjustment Bureau was clever.

My Little Matador

2011-10-27T06:00:00.002-06:00

I really wanted Brody to be a matador for Halloween this year (this is most likely my last year to decide) but I didn't love any of the costumes I saw. I decided the best thing to do was to make one. That's where my mother in law comes in. I just told her what I envisioned and she made it happen, but much better than I could have dreamed of. She is amazing!

Brody loves being a bull fighter.

I have even caught him trying to draw a mustache on himself a few times.

Check out some of the details on Brody's matador costume.

Thanks Beth!

Dianna's Must Haves

2011-10-26T10:17:00.000-06:00

1) Glue Dots
These can be used for everyday use and all kinds of crafts. They are so easy to use.

2) Oxi Clean
This laundry spray helped me get out old yellow stains from some of the little suits Brody wears to church. They were my brother's from over 30 years ago and Oxi Clean helped make them look new again. Oxi Clean has also helped me get out tough food stains on Brody's clothes.

3) Toy Story Big Boy Underwear
Now that Brody is potty trained he is very particular about what underwear he will wear. He almost always will only wear Woody or Rex big boys.

Do you use any of my must haves?

Zooey Deschanel

2011-10-24T09:45:00.000-06:00

Did you catch Zooey Deschanels performance yesterday at the World Series?

I loved it!

What did you think?

Pictures via

It's Just Another Stylin' Sunday

2011-10-23T11:57:00.003-06:00

Ride to a Witch at Gardner Village

2011-10-21T16:37:00.000-06:00

Every Fall I like to make a trip to Gardner Village in West Jordan Utah. The whole place is dressed up in fun Halloween decorations including mechanical witches. Every where you turn there is a photo opportunity.

This year Gardner Village gave me tickets to Ride to a Witch. We got to go on a tractor pulled hay ride to visit a few witch homes. The witches were fun and entertaining. Brody liked stirring the witch's cauldron.

Gardner Village has some great events for the family this Month: Breakfast with a Witch, Witch Scavenger Hunt, pony rides, Witch Palooza and more.

Gardner Village provided me with tickets for this review, all opinions are my own.

White Vinegar Tips

2011-10-20T08:15:00.000-06:00

- Stop clingy clothes by adding 1/2 a cup of white distilled vinegar to wash cycle.

- Clean your hairbrush by soaking it in white distilled vinegar.

- Quiet a barking dog by filling a spray bottle with equal parts water and white distilled vinegar and spray it at the dog when it barks.

See more tips here.

What do you use white vinegar for?

Loafer Love

2011-10-19T06:00:00.006-06:00

Don't you just love loafers?

Red penny loafer

1, 2, 3, 4

Random

2011-10-18T06:00:00.025-06:00

It's amazing how much fun can come from some rocks and gold spray paint.

Last week I put together a little treasure hunt for Brody and a few of his cousins. We had a lot of fun!

I am really happy about the Cardinals going to the World Series!

Brody's Halloween costume is almost finished.

My family will be heading to Las Vegas soon. Any suggestions on fun things to do with kids?

I am working on this years Give Thanks Series. I have 1 or 2 spaces left, if you want to guest post send me an email.

Make sure to tell me a little about what you want to post.

Scary movie previews should be banned from TV. They scare me!

Are you on Pinterest? I am. I love it!