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6/20/2010

9 Non-Fiction Books to Read This Summer, 8 Ideas for an Owl Love You Wedding!




Posted: 19 Jun 2010 12:03 PM PDT
Summer's here, time for sitting in the shade with a tall glass of lemonade and a good book! I'm a fan of non-fiction, especially biographies, and if you are too, I have a few suggestions for summer reading! Here's my list of 9 non-fictions books to read this summer…


1. "To See Every Bird on Earth" by Dan Koeppel


Price: $11.90 at amazon.com
I just read this book, and expected it to be a dry, scientific tale about bird-watching. I was so wrong! It's a touching, interesting story about a father's lifelong fascination with birds, and his son's coming to terms with that. It has just the right amount of science and technology, but I loved it!

2. "The Lady and the Panda" by Vicki Constantine Croke


Price: $11.21 at amazon.com
Looking for an old-fashioned adventure story where the main character is a spunky woman? Then read this! It's about an American woman, widowed young, who spent her fortune in pursuit of the Great Panda… and it's all true!

3. "Into Thin Air" by Jon Krakauer


Price: $7.99 at amazon.com
If you've ever wondered why anyone would want to subject themselves to the danger and pain of mountain climbing, give this a read. It tells the story of the disaster on Mount Everest in May of 1997, from the unique perspective of someone who was there. This is one of my all-time favorites!
Posted: 19 Jun 2010 10:27 AM PDT
Owls have always been trendy in fashion, jewelry, and home goods since I can remember, but now we are starting to see a big trend in Owl theme weddings. And these aren’t just subtle little hints hidden in your centerpieces, check out these 8 ideas on how you can join in on the owl loving for your wedding!

8. Owl Cake Anyone…


owlcake2
Photo: swsmag.net
Julie and Todd, who are in the top photo, love the outdoors so it only seemed natural to include owls, birds, wood, and birch into their wedding details. They wanted to have a groom’s cake that would make their guests smile and with this adorable chubby owl they really hit their mark! The feathers were made from rice paper that was dipped in white chocolate, how sweet! Could you eat a cake this cute?

7. Owl Invite You…

owlinvitation
Photo: LittleSparkCreations.etsy.com
Show off your theme with these fun invitations as you give your guests a little hint of the whimsical wedding they are about to attend. I love the design of the pocketfold that holds a matching information card for directions or hotel info and the rsvp card. Our invitation had a pocketfold as well, it really comes in handy when you have all that information to give your guests. Have you been to Etsy.com for your owl wedding invitations?

6. Owl Bridesmaids Clutch…

owlclutch2
Photo: Sweetpeatotes.etsy.com
If you’re really excited about having an owl theme wedding then go all out with these hooting owl clutches for your bridesmaids. I love that the owls are noticable but the colors of the bag are still classy and not over the top. Not only will your ladies have a wonderful gift, but now they also have a conversation piece to use when they go out on the town! I gave my girls a matching silver clutch with a pearl necklace hidden inside for them, they all loved it! What will you be giving your bridesmaids?

5. Sweet Owl Cake Topper…

owlcaketopper
Photo: Kikuike.etsy.com
Now that you have a chubby owl groom’s cake you’ll need this charming bride and groom owl set to perch on top of your wedding cake. This set also includes the beautiful tree that you can customize with your names or initials. I just love how cool the groom owl looks with his top hat and little necktie, so handsome! What does your cake topper look like?

4. Woo doesn’t Love Jewelry…

owlnecklace
Photo: Jayval.etsy.com
Are you the groom looking for a wonderful gift for your bride? This chic owl charm necklace would be a great gift for your leading lady who loves owls and jewelry. This little guy reminds me of the wise old owl on Winnie the Pooh, maybe this charm will bring back childhood memories for your bride as you both start a new one together. My husband gave me and my maid of honor a nice day out at the spa, it was a very relaxing gift! What will you be giving your bride-2-be?

3. Give a Hoot about your Guests…

owlsoap
Photo: MyWeddingFavors.com
Great wedding favors that are unique and useable can be difficult to find when there are so many favors that guests just don’t seem to care for. Buy something they can appreciate like this delightful owl soap and you’ll know that you won’t be wasting your money. If you are opting for a favor that gives back to nature you can donate to the World Wildlife Fund and adopt a snowy owl. What will you be doing for your wedding favors?

2. Fly Away in Cuteness…

owlluggagetags
Photo: Owlsay.etsy.com
 Luggage tags are a very popular bridal shower gift because the bride and groom are likely to go on a honeymoon after their big day is all said and done. If you’re a bridesmaid or mother of the bride you may already know her plans for having an owl theme wedding and can surprise her with these owl luggage tags that are just too cute to pass up. Don’t forget to tell the bride to put her new last name on her tag! Are your luggage tags as fun as these?

1. Is that an Owl at Your Wedding…

whiteowl2
Photo: Dailymail.co.uk
Were you really hoping to have a ring bearer at your wedding, perhaps an adorable little boy with one of those DIY ring pillows? Well who needs a little boy when you can impress all your guests or shock them with an awesome ring bearer like Ollie the Owl! If you live in the UK Ollie will swoop in with your rings tied to his feet and land on the gloved hand of your best man, it just doesn’t get any cooler than that! Don’t forget to tell the videographer about your little surprise, you’ll want to capture this moment and share it on facebook!
Are you having an Owl or nature themed wedding?
Top Photo: swsmag.net
Posted: 19 Jun 2010 10:07 AM PDT
Vacation time is here! YAY! Summer vacations are so fun to look forward to, but sometimes we lack inspiration. What can we do? Where are the best places to visit? Any terrific prices and specials we shouldn't miss? I've rounded up a few "Don't miss!" attractions for you is you plan on visiting San Antonio, Texas.


1. The Alamo

The Alamo
  Photo Credit: mlhradio
I've been to the Alamo, and although I am a history buff and love all places like this, you don't want to miss this one. It really doesn't take that long to go through and there is a great little audio recording you listen to about the attack of the Mexican Army and the Texan Defenders who were defeated in 1836. Stroll the plaza and buy souvenirs. It's fun, educational, and informative.

2. The Mcnay Art Museum

The Mcnay Art Museum
  Photo Credit: stevesheriw
The landscaped grounds alone are worth the trip. There are absolutely beautiful shrubs and flowers at every turn. But the museum is also nice! Modern art was first introduced to Texas here.

3. Brackenridge Park

Brackenridge Park
  Photo Credit: annjaber74
There is a zoo, a golf course, a train ride, and a beautiful river to stroll beside. There are 443- magical acres to explore and enjoy. A definite must see.
Posted: 19 Jun 2010 06:36 AM PDT
Lots of people still believe the old saying that it's best to let your cat have one litter before being neutered. Well, as someone involved with a cat charity, I can tell you that this is WRONG. There are many good reasons for having your cat neutered before it even gets the chance to present you with a litter of cute kittens.


#1

Keeping numbers down! I love all cats, but they deserve a good home, and if too many are allowed to breed, there will be far too many kittens (and soon adults) to home. We are inundated with kittens much of the time. Remember, a female can become fertile as early as 6 months, so needs to be sterilised as early as possible. I once adopted a cat who had had kittens very young, when she was still really only a baby herself.

#2

An outdoor male absolutely needs to be neutered. Not only will it stop him fathering hundreds of kittens (even if he won't have to pay child support), but an uncastrated male will be more likely to fight. This means the risk of injury and transmission of diseases.

#3

If you haven't heard a female call out when she's in heat, then I promise you that it will drive you nuts. I lasted 2 days when my kitten first went in heat – she was off to the vet at the first opportunity. Peace has been resumed, and kitty is no longer trying to get too friendly with anyone and anything.
Posted: 19 Jun 2010 03:38 AM PDT
Summer always makes me want to buy a new handbag. I'm not sure if it is the warm weather that puts me in the mood for this spending spree or if it’s the new outfits that I seem to find on sale. Looking good is important to a woman, right? Of course! I see so many cute handbags, that I decided to make a list of the top 8. There are always more that want to creep onto my list, but I resisted the urge to mention them all. It was hard to decide on which was my absolute favorite, so the list isn't in any order of preference. I just love them all!

1. Total Bag by Roxy

Total Bag by Roxy
Price: $36.00 at roxy.com
I find that having a basic black handbag that goes with anything is a necessity. This bag is simple, yet it has character. Even though it has buckles and metal rings attached to it, I didn't feel it came off as being too retro or flashy. It looks just like leather, but the high price that comes with a leather bag isn't attached to this one. The vinyl used to create this little accessory doesn't have that cheap look to it that so many other faux leather handbags have.

2. MARC by Marc Jacobs Natasha Shoulder Bag at Neiman Marcus

MARC by Marc Jacobs Natasha Shoulder Bag at Neiman Marcus
Price: $328.00 at neimanmarcus.com
Every girl needs at least one shoulder bag that serves its purpose without making her shoulder ache. The tan leather is so soft and supple. That is one of the best things about leather. I also enjoy the smell of leather as well. The gold accents on this purse go great with the tan coloring. I like the way the flap covers the zippered portion inside and is closed with a simple turnlock. The magnetic-action on this flap makes it easier to quickly close and have it stay in place while turning the lock. There are even two open pockets on the inside, making it easier to quickly slip a coin purse or sunglasses right into them and avoid fighting with too many zippers.
Posted: 19 Jun 2010 02:14 AM PDT
Victoria Beckham has always been a huge trend setter, and when she showed off her unique take on the bob, dubbed the 'Pob' or 'Posh Bob', it was obvious that it would be a huge trend too! Whether you want a sleek look or something a bit messy and full of attitude, this is the perfect look and its no wonder celebrities all over Hollywood, including Rihanna, have been spotted rocking this look. Want it for yourself? Here's my list of seven tips for mastering the Pob…

1. Find the right hairdresser

The Pob can be worked in many different ways, and it's important that your hair is cut to suit your face rather then in a textbook way. Talk to your stylist about what you want from the cut, what you like, and lengths. Make sure they are happy to cut straight, but also textured, and if you have any doubts, go elsewhere.

2. Shampoo

However you are wearing your hair, it's sure to need a little volume to give this look the chic edge! Try using a volumizing shampoo and conditioner set, which will add some natural looking height to your hair and keep it looking great too. I love Bed Head shampoos!

3. Anti Frizz

Anti Frizz
  Photo Credit: yoshiko314
Towel dry your hair, and massage in a small blob of anti frizz balm. This will help to keep your hair in good condition, and prevent the frizz which so often ruins the sleek look! Your hair might look a bit flat after you've applied the balm, though, so I like to keep volumizing mousse nearby and apply a blob to give it some extra (frizz free) life.
Posted: 19 Jun 2010 01:33 AM PDT
There was a time, not so long ago, that crafts were seen as deeply unfashionable. Anyone under 40 would rather have pierced their brain with a knitting needle than use it to make something. Well, things have changed, and it's becoming trendy to make and create. Here are some suggestions for crafts to try.

1. Candlemaking

2
The possibilities are endless! Colors, patterns, decoration … and we all love scented candles, don't we, girls? They are must have home accessories and would make great gifts as well.
Photo Credit: cathepsut

2. Knitting

3
No longer something that our grannies did, knitting is making a comeback. Younger women are meeting for “stitch and bitch” sessions, and having FUN! There are some fabulous yarns available now, and even the most incompetent knitter can manage a scarf.
Photo Credit: knitting school dropout
Posted: 19 Jun 2010 12:46 AM PDT
The summer is a great time to decide to get fit. The days are longer, the sun is out and there's something in the air that makes everyone feel that bit happier, and more at peace with the world. I'm determined to get back into the habit of running with my dogs everyday, and I've been looking for gorgeous fitness buys to take with me… here are my favourites!

1. Reebok Fitness Masters Drinking Set

Reebok Fitness Masters Drinking Set
Price: $27 at amazon.co.uk
It's really important to stay hydrated when you are exercising, so taking a drinking bottle is a must. This Reebok design isn't as ugly and masculine as most of the others and it comes with some great extras, too! It has a matching towel, headphones, grip masters, a speed rope and a cute bag to put them all in, which is great if you are an expert at forgetting things like me!

2. Luminox Watches

Luminox Watches
Price: $217 from amazon.co.uk
These are the watches worn by the Special Forces, so you know they are going to be good! They use special technology to 'glow' all the time, without needing to be activated by a button or charged up which means you'll always know what time it is, without any fuss! They are also made of super strong material, and despite being designed for men, it looks quite good on women too.

3. Riiflex Weights

Riiflex Weights
Price: $30 at riiflex.com
Love your Nintendo Wii? These 2 and 4 pound weights are great for intensifying that workout! They attach to your nuncheck or wiimote, and you can use them as normal weights, or as part of your Wii-fit training programme. The bright green colour makes me feel surprisingly fond of them… Give them a try, they are addictive and great for your arms!
Posted: 18 Jun 2010 11:44 PM PDT
The third season of True Blood just started and it inspired me to wax poetic about the show. Do you guys love the show as much as I do? What are your reasons for watching it every week? I know you’ll say Eric but I’m interested to hear your other reasons. Here are mine:

1. The story is engaging.


1
It is mature — as in you see lots of naked people. But this is the type of vampire stories I like. Sweet and cute are okay but I like a vampire story with just the right amount of suspense and horror.

2. It has interesting characters.

2

Of course, it has your typical vampire story characters — werewolves, religious fanatics, etc. etc. However, I like the quirks that each character has. My favorites will have to be Pamela, Lafayette, and Jason.

3. The story deviates from the book series beautifully.

3

Having read the book, I am very much aware of how big of an artistic license Alan Ball has taken with regards to creating the show. Still, I think the TV series he has created is authentic and fantastic. I sure appreciate the fact that he has made Lafayette a huge part of the story.

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