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It's Me, ChristyB Lifestyle blog of a middle-aged mom of two

Archives for September 2020

ChristyB: Football Tailgate Ideas

FOOTBALL TAILGATING TIPS/TRICKS/IDEAS

Every year in the fall we attend family weekend at each of our kids’ colleges. It’s a fun time...

itsme_christyb

STEP INTO MY HEAD AS I REDECORATE THE FIREPLACE FO

STEP INTO MY HEAD AS I REDECORATE THE FIREPLACE FOR SUMMER // Enter if you dare. I've condensed one hour into 60 seconds of what it's like when I redecorate an area in my house. I have a lot of plants. They are usually the first thing I add as light determines where they can go. Then I grab things from around the house that I might want to use depending on the season.

Add a few things. Step back and look. Readjust. Step back and look. There is a lot of pondering and standing with my "bat wings out", as my husband says.

Once I have the base of plants and the smaller knick knacks, I add height where needed. Candlesticks work well for this. Height can also be added with a vase of floral stems or greenery, even a lamp. Books are usually involved, as well. Stack them in a pile or line them up in a row with bookends. Maybe add a framed photos, layer artwork or a mirror. Try baskets, bowls, wooden boxes, candles or even stand up a wreath. Two things I love to use are fur and a touch of bling. Even though we are going into summer, I still like the fur rug under the firewood for soft texture on the hard fireplace. And I finished everything off with a few disco balls for a little sparkle. That's a peek into my mind when I redecorate a space.

I'm never 100% happy with the final result. I always wish I had more options to use. But it makes me happy getting into the zone and seeing what I can come up with using what I have on hand. To me this space isn't finished. I'm tired of the two large photos on either side of the fireplace and want to switch it up. I have a few ideas in mind. Stick around to see how I change this area up next.

PAINTED ROCK STRAWBERRIES | BIRD DECOYS // I saw t

PAINTED ROCK STRAWBERRIES | BIRD DECOYS // I saw this trick going around social media to keep birds from eating strawberries in the strawberry patch and I wanted to see if it really works. They say if you paint rocks to look like strawberries and put them in the garden, it will deter the birds from eating the fresh berries before you can get them picked. The birds see the red color and peck at the hard rocks which deters them from pecking on the actual strawberries as they ripen.

I stole a few rocks from the garden walkway in the similar shapes as a strawberries. We used acrylic craft paint and a Sharpie to draw on the black details and sprayed with clear sealer for extra protection. If anything, they look cute and add fun color to the garden. We’ll see if this trick helps increase our strawberry yield.

This could be a fun summer project for the kids. Let them collect rocks and go to town painting strawberries. It should keep them busy for a good 30-minutes or so. 🙂

I don’t feel sorry for the birds. I feed them plenty in feeders around the yard. I even share sunflower seeds as the sunflowers bloom over the summer. Beaks off my strawberries!

REUSABLE PRINTED DISHCLOTHS // If it's cute, I'm a

REUSABLE PRINTED DISHCLOTHS // If it's cute, I'm all in. That's what sold me on these fun Swedish dishcloths for the kitchen. They are also 100% biodegradable, can be reused up to 50 washes in the dishwasher or washing machine and one cloth can replace up to 17 rolls of paper towels. They got me with cute and won me over with their sustainability. 1 package = 5 cloths and many patterns options. I'm not a paid spokesman. I just think they are fun and wanted to share the cuteness. DM "Swedish Dishcloth" for a link or check out the blog for a direct link: www.itsmechristyB.com

MOSQUITO REPELLING PLANTER // Does it really work?

MOSQUITO REPELLING PLANTER // Does it really work? It does if you break up a leaf to release the scent. Rub the leaf on your arms then sit it on the table near you to help detour mosquitos. Plus, the planter looks pretty sitting on the table.

I used lemon balm, tricolor sage, lavender, lemon grass, lanta and citronella.

Water daily, twice a day when temps are 90 degrees and above to keep it looking its best.

DIY FOUNTAIN // What is better than relaxing tot h

DIY FOUNTAIN // What is better than relaxing tot he sound of a waterfall? When we went to Florida earlier this year, the house we stayed at had a patio with a pool right outside the back door. Each day I would work on the patio and listen to the sounds of the waterfall in the pool. It was so relaxing. I wanted to recreate the sound on our back patio but, unfortunately, we don’t currently have a pool with a waterfall. This is my resolution.

I made a DIY fountain using a lightweight planter with no drainage hole and a solar fountain pump. Simply add water to the planter and place the fountain pump in the water. The pump automatically turns on as the sun rises and turns off as the sun goes down. No electricity required. It keeps the water moving which prohibits mosquitoes. The pump comes with six nozzles for a variety of fountain patterns. I specifically chose this pump because it has an auto-off if the planter were to run out of water. There is a risk of burning up the pump on models that do not have an auto-shutoff.

I admit, the sound isn’t as loud as the pool’s waterfall, but my little DIY fountain promotes a relaxing atmosphere on the back patio which is exactly what I was wanting. If a planter isn’t your style, the fountain pump can be used in a birdbath, as well. I’m going to try that next.

Resource links used on the blog: www.itsmechristyB.com

SUMMER PATIO // The back patio is ready for summer

SUMMER PATIO // The back patio is ready for summer living. I’m still in love with the viral @walmart outdoor furniture we got last year. This year’s new addition is the black and white striped recycled plastic rug. A pot of mosquito repelling plants and a disco ball diffuser filled with citronella essential oil will hopefully keep the bugs at bay. I’ll be living out here every single evening possible this summer. #lovewhereyoulive

SUMMER POTTING BENCH // It’s like my adult playt

SUMMER POTTING BENCH // It’s like my adult playtime when I get to drag everything out that was stored away for the winter. My potting bench was one of the first things I prepped for the upcoming summer. I’m slowly adding to my terra cotta pot collection that I display from spring through fall on the potting bench. No, I don’t really plant things in them. They’re more just for looks because they get prettier with age. It gives me hope for myself.

This bust if my favorite thing. She looked a little bare so I pulled up some of the vinca vine that fills in the surrounding flower bed and gave her an instant hair do. She's styling now.

When decorating a porch, potting bench or any area for summer, I pull random things from around the house for a full look. A minimalist I am not! I started with a base of my terra cotta pot collection. I always add a few annuals in pots for color. It still needed more green so I brought out an aloe plant from inside and gave my lady hair. The aloe will be fine in full sun for the summer and vinca vine will grow anywhere. (Beware, it can be invasive if not contained when planted in the ground.) I added an old grapevine wreath for added height. On the top right shelf, I stuck some old rusty plant tags in a pot and plopped faux grass from Ikea into another pot. That faux grass plant has been outside somewhere for the past three summers and it's still going strong. Don't be afraid to mix in faux plants. The bottom looks like it needs height but it won't be long until the colorful coleus plants have grown tall and full to fill the space. Last, I tucked in a few 3" silver gazing balls for a bit of sparkle. Random things pulled together from around the house can make for some pretty cool decor. Yes, there is still room to use the potting bench for its intended use. I'll be repotting some indoor plants soon.

#pottingbench

WEEKLY DINNER IDEAS // Happy Cinco de Mayo! I decl

WEEKLY DINNER IDEAS // Happy Cinco de Mayo! I declared 2024 the year to “make every day special” which means celebrating any chance we are given. Today we celebrated Cinco de Mayo with a meal of Mexican Shredded Beef Tacos and homemade guacamole. It also gave me a chance to use the bowl I recently brought home from Cabo. Yes, I bought it with this specific date in mind. 🙂 Guess I need to go back so I can add to my collection for next year.

We’ll be having leftovers from our Cinco de Mayo meal this week along with the following:

MONDAY:
Creamy Beef & Shells
Creamy Cucumber Salad

TUESDAY:
Seafood Bake
Homemade Crusty Bread
Burrata w/ Balsamic Tomatoes

WEDNESDAY:
Leftover Mexican Shredded Beef Tacos
Guacamole

THURSDAY:
Creamy Ranch Chicken
Roasted Garlic Butter Parmesan Potatoes

FRIDAY:
Fillet Mignon
Baked Parmesan Tomatoes

For recipe links and more weekly dinner ideas, visit the blog: www.itsmechristyB.com

HOUSEPLANT SUMMER VACATION // I used this rainy Su

HOUSEPLANT SUMMER VACATION // I used this rainy Sunday to move my houseplants outdoors. They got a good drink of rain water before I arranged them on the front porch where they will bask in the humidity for the summer. You can almost see them grow before your eyes when they are out here.

Next I'll be adding some color amongst the green with flowers and my happy summer front porch will be complete.

Do you move your houseplants outdoor for the summer?

WEEKEND LOADING // If you need me, you can find me

WEEKEND LOADING // If you need me, you can find me outside planting my little heart out this weekend. It’s my happy place and I’m so looking forward to it!

I planted this succulent bowl for our outdoor table knowing it will handle the hot summer sun well. I sat the bowl on a grapevine wreath and wrapped an old grapevine garland around for an extra fun touch. If you’re looking for something pretty and easy to care for this summer, give succulents a try. They still need water but not as much as flower pots.

Hope you find your happy place this weekend, too. Have a great one!

GARDEN PLANTING OPTIONS // Which option will you u

GARDEN PLANTING OPTIONS // Which option will you use this year?

START SEEDS INDOORS: In late winter, plant seeds in grow trays to prep seedlings for spring planting. This allows for growing a wider variety of plants, some of which cannot easily be started from seed directly in the garden.

DIRECT SOW IN GARDEN: A cost effective way to grow a garden. No special equipment required. Allows for easy succession planting which prolongs harvests.

PLANT SEEDLINGS: Allows for a quicker start to the growing season. More predictable results. Instant gratification. Cost is higher than planting seeds.

For more simple garden tips visit the blog: www.itsmechristyB.com

GARDEN LOCATION | FOUR THINGS TO CONSIDER // Previ

GARDEN LOCATION | FOUR THINGS TO CONSIDER // Previously we discussed the various types of gardens. Today we’re going to talk about what to consider when determining the location of a garden

1. SUN: A successful producing vegetable garden needs at least 6 hours of sun per day. A general rule is the more sun, the better with the taller plants providing any needed shade for cooler weather plants like lettuce or spinach. Plants can grow with less sunlight but the crop production will be smaller.

2. WATER: Water is life for people and plants. Unfortunately, we can’t always count on the rain to keep our gardens sufficiently watered. Be sure a water source is close and convenient. A lack of water will yield struggling plants and ill-producing vegetables.

3. GOOD DRAINAGE: Soil quality is so important to growing a booming garden. A garden location should drain well to avoid plants sitting in over-saturated soil. Constant wet conditions can cause root rot resulting in premature death of plants.

4. CONVENIENCE: If at all possible, a garden should be in as convenient a location as possible. Healthy gardens require regular attention. Daily inspections should be made to keep pests at bay. Watering is needed when rain is lacking. Produce should be harvested promptly for freshest results. If a garden location isn’t convenient, it could lead to neglect and we don’t want all that hard work and money spent to go to waste.

BONUS: While not necessary, a garden close to the kitchen comes in handy when prepping meals. Adding a few flowers throughout not only helps with pest control and pollination, it is pretty to look at, as well. Making the garden as convenient and enjoyable as possible can encourage us to keep up the hard work for a bountiful garden of fresh produce.

If we keep these few tips in mind, we will be well on our way to a successful garden.

SUMMER LOADING // The first of May means it's time

SUMMER LOADING // The first of May means it's time to change out the faux spring flowers to live greens. Phase 1 of the summer front porch is complete. I went with the tried and true Boston ferns that flourish on the covered porch each year. Stay tuned for phase 2 - moving out the excessive amounts of house plants to live their best lives in the warm summer humidity. #ilovesummer

MAY DAY // Happy first day of May! Let's get our

MAY DAY // Happy first day of May! Let's get our hands dirty and add a little cheer to our homes with flowers.

GARDEN OPTIONS | WHAT TYPE IS BEST FOR YOU // If y

GARDEN OPTIONS | WHAT TYPE IS BEST FOR YOU // If you’ve considered planting a garden, let’s go for it! Start small so you don’t get overwhelmed. Then take what you learned and make it even better next year.

Today we are going to start from the very beginning and discuss a few different types of gardens. Whether you have a tiny balcony or a large yard, you can grow a garden, I promise. Will you go with a container garden, raised garden beds or keep it old school with an in-ground garden?

More info. on each option on the blog: www.itsmechristyB.com

ANYONE CAN START A GARDEN // You’re not too late

ANYONE CAN START A GARDEN // You’re not too late! The next two weeks is prime time in the Midwest to get your garden going. Follow along as I share simple tips to get you started so you don’t get overwhelmed. Even if you think you don’t have a green thumb, I promise you can be successful if you keep the following things in mind:

• Be patient
• Start small
• Make everything as convenient as possible
• Don’t stress
•.Don’t forget to water!

Stick around and let’s get growing together. Whether you have space for an in-ground garden, a few raised beds in the back yard or a tiny balcony for pots, anyone can start a garden. Even you!

CABO SAN LUCAS | VACATION 2024 // Back in January

CABO SAN LUCAS | VACATION 2024 // Back in January we escaped the Missouri snow to enjoy a week in Cabo San Lucas with family. The cool 65 degree mornings and breezy 80 degree afternoons were perfection. Here is a peek at our adventures in Cabo.

Still images, links to where we went and what we did, including when I tripped and almost knocked over a game of giant jenga at @the_giggling_marlin, on the blog: www.itsmechristyB.com

#cabo #cabosanlucas #cabosanlucasmexico #mexicovacation

WHAT’S FOR DINNER | WEEKLY MEAL IDEAS // Need ea

WHAT’S FOR DINNER | WEEKLY MEAL IDEAS // Need easy dinner ideas? You’re at the right place. Follow for weekly meal ideas with recipe links.

For over 90 weekly meal ideas, check out the “Dinner Ideas” highlight in my bio. Recipe links are on the blog: www.itsmechristyB.com

#dinnerideas #mealideas #easydinners #dinnertonight

CORTEN STEEL PLANTER BOXES + DIY RUST PROCESS // O

CORTEN STEEL PLANTER BOXES + DIY RUST PROCESS // Our house has flower beds on all four sides, which I love. I’ve always wanted to do something a little different in this spot by the back door rather than planting directly in the ground. After 7 years of dreaming, I finally bit the bullet and purchased the corten steel planters I knew would be perfect for this spot.

Sharing where I bought them and how I instantly rusted the steel, rather than waiting for it to weather on the blog: www.itsmechristyB.com

#cortensteel #cortensteelplanters

THE TWO Bs: TARGET TRY-ON #2 // It’s time for an

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