504 Main by Holly Lefevre: July 2012

Monday, July 30, 2012

An Exotic and "Wild" Tabletop Design

I love to shop.

I love to entertain.

I love to set a gorgeous (or fun) table!

So, I jumped at the opportunity to head to World Market to see their Kingdom Animalia Collection and then set a FAB table for a WILD Girls Night in!

(Psst...at the bottom of this post is some scoop on their very cool African Safari Sweepstakes!)

I was feeling very inspired to design a WILD night in. I had just returned from visiting a friend whose husband is from South Africa...and their homes is decorated with many exotic items.

Heading to World Market (all by myself!) was so fun!

Look at this very cool Kingdom Animalia display right in the front of the store.

Makes me want to buy it all and have the same set up at home!

We actually shop at World Market a lot.

Back in the day - before kids - hubby and I would go to World Market just to cruise the aisles and see all of the cool merchandise. We still like to do that, we are usually just not alone any more. World Market's selection of unique food and beverages is so enticing...but you know I love their accessories, jewelry and other goodies!

Here is a quick peek at some of the pieces in the Kingdom Animalia Collection.

I was working with a budget for this project, but I would have LOVED to pickup the Clyde Steamer Trunk Bar and a rug..maybe next time! Once I selected all my goods, I headed home to get ready for our WILD time!

I decided to set up a table outside under the trees. I pulled a few pieces out of my bag of tricks - lanterns, candles, tablecloths, and an outdoor rug. Just so ya know, I own a lot of decor items from my days as a wedding planner, but you can easily find lanterns, rugs, and candles so very similar at World Market.

Then I broke into the really good stuff - the World Market Kingdom Animalia decor.

Every time I think about exotic locales, I think of rich colors and fabrics, layers of texture, and sitting on the floor atop fluffy pillows.

So I set out an outdoor rug under some trees and then decided to set a low table. I used a card table balanced on top of 2 crates (2 is important so it does not tip over!).

Here are the details of my table!

A Maru Round Paper Lantern was hung from a tree branch using twine. I added a string of beads from a necklace I bought. Metal lanterns contrasted the paper lantern nicely.

Layers of fabric, linens, and table cloths create the base for the table. I used many colors and textures, but all in harmonious tones. I could not resist the Kingdom Animalia scarf, and used it as a table topper, laying it diagonally, and just knotting the ends for some interesting.

I picked up 4 Persimmon Organic Reactive Glaze Dinner Plates. I thought the punch of persimmon would look great with the browns and blacks. As well, it complimented the colors in the scarf.

I was thinking about a zebra theme...but I saw these giraffe napkins and had to have them. LOVE! I also grabbed a very cool necklace that was on clearance. It had about 10 different strands of beads. I carefully took them apart (because I will probably put the necklace back together and wear it!) and wrapped the coral and turquoise around the napkins. I love the pop of color and the contrast.

I purchased 3 of these small globes and one larger one (I cannot resist a globe!) to place around the table. The basket was a steal at about $5...I just put a jar of water inside and added some fresh lilies. The small wood pieces were from the clearance section at a craft store, but add to the exotic look quite nicely.

An overhead view of the table.

I had to have this falafel mix and Tahini dressing. I love falafels, but have never made them myself. I cannot wait to try this. I picked up the Moroccan rub to try on veggies and chicken for the kiddos.

I tried this Mango Margarita tea at World Market a few weeks ago and finally bought some.

I had a wonderful time creating a unique and exotic space for

the girls and I to relax and have a WILD night in.

World Market made it to easy to realize my vision for this table design.

Look at this amazing World Market African Safari Sweepstakes!

You can visit World Market on Facebook to enter

or head over to the World Market Website

If you share the sweepstakes with 5 of your friends (via FB share or email) you can receive 5 additional bonus entries. This is part of the registration process when entering. Users can also enter daily for more chances to win.

Can't get enough of World Market? Find them on

Facebook

Twitter

YouTube

This shop has been compensated by Cost Plus World Market and Pollinate Media Group

Saturday, July 28, 2012

Classic Mandarin Orange Salad from DOLE #tropicalfruit

As a mom, I am always looking for ways to incorporate fruits and vegetables into meals and snacks for my kids (and heck for me and my hubby too!). DOLE Pineapple - in all forms, crushed, chunks, and slices - is actually a pantry staple in our house. We add it to pizzas, broccoli slaw salads, desserts - you name it!

Beyond pineapple, my kids LOVE the DOLE Mandarin Oranges...

Like as in they could eat an entire can each...every day.

I was super exited when I was presented with the opportunity

to try out this yummy recipe from DOLE.

The Classic Mandarin Orange Salad combines so many of my favorite flavors...

I knew this would be a hit, with the star of the show being the Mandarin Oranges (that is how I am going to get my kiddos to try it..lure them in with the Mandarin Oranges!)

First I headed out to pick up some Mandarin Oranges at Safeway. I was very fortunate that I got to shop alone (in the summer! Thank yo Molly for hanging out with my kiddos!). I headed to the larger Safeway in my area. I always like to see what is being offered over their. I went looking for the Canned Fruit aisle right away.

I got super lucky...it was Buy One Get one Free if you had the club card!

I am stocking up on Mandarin Oranges and Pineapple...

and trying the #TropicalFruit for the first time!

Check out my shopping trip on Google+

Later in the week, I invited Molly (my super helpful friend!)

over and we all had Classic Mandarin Orange Salad for lunch.

I really liked this salad.

It is fresh and tangy, and full of good for you ingredients.

I eat salads a lot and I like to mix a lot of different ingredients together, so I was pleasantly surprised with salty, savory, and sweet combination of flavors.

DOLE Classic Mandarin Orange Salad

INGREDIENTS
1 Package DOLE Spinach or other DOLE salad variety
1 Can )11 or 15 ox.) DOLE Mandarin Oranges
1/2 Sliced Ripe Olives
1/2 cup chopped DOLE red onion

1/2 cup light balsamic vinaigrette

1/4 crumbled feta cheese

MAKE IT!

This recipe is pretty simple and packs a big punch!

And takes on a few minutes to prepare!

Combine spinach, onions, mandarin oranges, and olive sin a large serving bowl.

Toss with the balsamic vinaigrette and top with the crumbled feta cheese.

Now ENJOY!

I liked the flavors of this salad a lot and also had a few ideas for experimenting with it...perhaps a crunch of some toasted sunflower seeds or crunchy Chinese noodles.

Be sure to check out more great recipes from DOLE!

Keep up to date on the latest news, deals, and recipes by following

DOLE on twitter and

DOLE on Facebook

So, what do you think?

Do you like fruit in your salads...if you have not tried it you should!

I am a member of the Collective Bias™ Social Fabric® Community. This shop has been compensated as part of a social shopper insights study for Collective Bias™ and Dole #CBias #SocialFabric

Thursday, July 26, 2012

Tickled Pink No. 108

EEEEKKKKKKK!

How did it get to be Thursday already?

At first I was going to skip Tickled Pink this week...

but I changed my mind...so here it is short and sweet.

I apologize for the lack of communication

for those who have linked up and commented over the past couple weeks.

I have about one zillion bad habits.

I keep all of my bad habits...

because I am a hoarder.

Well, my bad habits are catching up to me.

I was sleeping more....

I thought I had kicked that bad habit to the curb...

but I was wrong.

It must have slipped into my bag at Goodwill

4 hours or less of sleep per night does not make for a

mommy/friend/wife you want to be around.

Coffee does not even help.

Image credit: snr / 123RF Stock Photo

And I pretty much feel like one of my Dad's favorite sayings

"Put a fork in me...I'm done!"

So THANK YOU for continuing to visit and hang in there with me!

Tuesday, July 24, 2012

Sweet and Simple Cocktail: Faux Mojitos

I have been out of town driving all over the place in the HOT sun...I am home now,and I need an afternoon on the deck in my foggy town with one of these!(by the way, this is sort of a repost)

Image credit: duskbabe / 123RF Stock Photo

I found a FABULOUS beverage recipe many, many years ago in a magazine advertisement...it was either for Crystal Light or Weight Watchers...not sure which. Any which way...I love a mojito...I do not love calories {evil meaningless calories!}. So, I tried it...and then I made it mine with a few twists and additions. I have been making what I refer to as "Faux and Fab Mojitos" ever since...

This little sip of minty sweetness does not mimic the taste of a traditional mojito 100%, but it comes pretty close for a lot less calories...
so that works for me
(most of the time)!

You could also easily make this drink without the alcohol!

Faux and Fab Mojitos

{adapted from Weight Watchers of Crystal Light recipe - this is not quite there recipe, but their recipe was the inspiration}

1 pitcher size serving of Crystal Light lemonade

1 cups {flat} water*

1 cup rum**

2-3 big handfuls of mint sprigs - the mintier the better for me - you can adjust to your liking.

4 cups club soda/seltzer water/carbonated water

6 lime slices

NOTES:

1 - I like fizz...if you do not, you can play with your ratio of flat to fizzy water.

2 - You can also reduce the rum to 1/2 cup...or I suppose increase it too!

3 - Skip the rum for a non-alcoholic beverage!

MAKE IT!

Empty tub drink mix contents into a pitcher.
Combine with 1 cup {flat} water and 1 cup rum, stir until dissolved.
Add mint and muddle or crush the mint leaves to release the flavor.
Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Add club soda just prior to serving.
Sugar the rim of the glass.
Add some ice
POUR!
Garnish with mint.
If you love mint like I do...muddle some mint in each persons glass before pouring.

Happy Sipping!

What is your favorite summer beverage?

Friday, July 20, 2012

Patio Furniture Update: The Bloggy Olympic - Outdoor Event

I have had the same white "plastic" patio furniture for

a very, very long time...like 13+ years.

Every year I look, and swoon over the pretty furniture

I see in the stores...

and every year, I leave empty-handed.

On the other hand, this furniture is still in good condition.

The original cushions are long gone (think yellow flowers),

and so is the umbrella, but the chairs and table are sturdy

and well made (thank you Sears!)...

so why not spruce up these guys.

Beside, in the house we use stuff until their is nothing left to use!

This is where I started...

The OLD WHITE CHAIR!
KRYLON FUSION TO THE RESCUE!

So, there is nothing earth-shattering about this DIY...

other than it looks 100% better,

and the lesson that just because something is old

does not mean it cannot get a makeover and be pretty again!

SUPPLIES

Old patio furniture (found in your own backyard, a street corner, dumpster or thrift store)
8 Cans of Krylon Fusion in Black, Satin finish (it may take more, depending on the style of furniture). I used Fusion because it is the best for bonding with plastic. I will probably need another few cans to finish off the table.
Good scrub brush and bucket of soapy water.
Drop cloth/cardboard, lots of newspaper for protecting your surfaces
Eye, mouth, and hand protection (recommended)

DIY IT!
1. Prep your surface - no sanding or priming needed...I just gave the pieces a good wash with soapy water and a scrub brush.

2. Let dry thoroughly.

3. Grab a chair - place it on the covered/protected surface. I found it easier to elevate mine on top of a table to work on.

4. I laid out one chair at a time - and worked on it over the course of the day.
Begin painting/spraying in smooth even "strokes". Let dry between coats and reapply. I applied about 3 light coats - I was always finding a nook or cranny that I missed.

My chairs were of that textured plastic, so I practiced patience and took my time and the result was amazing.

5. Once dry, flip the chair over and repeat the painting process.

6. Repeat for all the chairs and table.

The results....

NEW PRETTY BLACK CHAIR

As for the table...it is not 100% done...I need (want) to take the glass out before I paint and really clean it good...but I need hubby hereto help with the glass and he has not been home (where we have not been at a party of kiddo function) forever!

I picked up some new cushion on clearance (about $10 each!!!!),

tied them on the chairs and love the new black chairs!

Now, I love a DIY that saves me money

(and so does my hubby!)

What outdoor projects have you been working on?

Link up to the Bloggy Olympics and show us what you have been doing.

There is also a give away...hop over to Directions Not Included to get in on the giveaway...and it is a good one:

WIN $50 in plants (for fall shipping) from

Strand Nursery Company

They sell native wildflowers and ferns nationwide.

How awesome is that!?

Now go link on up!
If you are looking for Tickled Pink...it is right HERE!

Thursday, July 19, 2012

Tickled Pink No. 107

Happy Almost Friday!

Will everyone do me a FAVOR????

Please visit the person linked before you...

Pretty Please!

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TOMORROW NIGHT (AS IN FRIDAY)

I will be posting the linky for The Bloggy Olympics!

This is all about OUTDOOR Creativity!

So, even if you link up to Tickled Pink..

if your link is outdoor related, link it on up to the Bloggy Olympics!

There will be a cool giveaway too!

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GIVEAWAYS!

Katie is offering a $20 credit to her shop.

Did you read her tips on opening an Esty shop?

Really good advice!

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Here's a new one...

Blogger Spotlight

(via facebook)

Last week I put a call out on my Facebook Wall for anyone to share a blog

(their own or someone else's) they thought was awesome...

so my plan is to give a shout out to a new blog or two every week.

How can you get a shout out...

#1 - head over to facebook

#2 like 504 Main and leave me a note!

For today...

How about checking out these lovelies!

Kalyn at And I Thought I Loved You Then...

Janet at Janet of All Trades

Janine at Three Wishes

________________________________________________________________

HAPPY SUMMER!

FEATURES!
Grab a featured button right HERE!
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Maybe, MayBe Not?
Maybe Tomorrow!
Sorry
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Here is a hint....going forward,
those lovely bloggers with a link back or button for Tickled Pink/504 Main
in the linked up post...
have a better chance of being featured!
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NOW FOR TICKLED PINK!

A craft...a recipe...a tip...a party...a short story...a poem...a fashion find...a favorite product...your favorite post...whatever makes your blog fabulous!
That is what Tickled Pink is all about!
{and it does NOT have to be PINK}

Grab a button HERE!
or here!

<a href="http://504main.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i883.photobucket.com/albums/ac35/Holly7081/504Mainbuttonfridays-1.jpg" /></a></center>

PRACTICE PINK KINDNESS
1. Link up...whatever makes your blog fabulous. Family Friendly please. Guess what? Your post does not have to be PINK!! I reserve the right to remove posts that are offensive or do not adhere to the rules, without any discussion, at my discretion.
2. PLEASE LINK TO A POST URL, ****NOT YOUR MAIN URL****
3. Pretty please...add the Tickled Pink button or TEXT link back to the post* {people need to know what the heck they are doing!}.
4. Please visit a couple other links!