I've got some BIG news! Nope. I'm not pregnant. Sorry if you were hoping for some baby news but I'm pretty sure the hubby and I are done having kids. I'm a planner. Making a plan and knowing a little bit about what's coming next keeps me in my comfort zone. It's funny how God sometimes takes my "plans" and throws them out the window. Not because He's mean but because He's got something better than what I planned. {or maybe He's just trying to get me out of my comfort zone} {Click here for the free printable} Career Plans Before I had children, I worked in the medical billing field for seven years. I worked my way up to a ... read more
Frugal Crafty Home Blog Hop #141
Welcome to this week's Frugal Crafty Home Blog Hop! Before we get to the party I want to make sure you know about the: $500 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway! There's only about one hour left in the $500 Amazon Gift Card giveaway! Come celebrate Holly's 5 year cancer survivorversary and enter before it ends! Now Time For The Frugal Crafty Home Blog Hop! Amy from A Blossoming Life, Katie from The Casual Craftlete, Kristi from Making It In The Mountains and I are all excited to see your latest DIY projects, recipes and crafts! Featured Posts From Last Week: Easy Coconut Pineapple Rice from Home Cooking Memories Candlelight Antique Side Table from The ... read more
$500 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway
I've got some BIG news to share today. It involves you and a chance to win a $500 Amazon gift card! How does that sound? One of my blog friends Holly from The Coconut Head's Survival Guide is celebrating her 5-Year Survivorversary from cancer! Five years cancer free is a huge reason to celebrate! I have so much respect for Holly. She's a cancer survivor that turned a very tough experience into a wonderful way to help others. She blogs about fun DIY projects, delicious recipes. as well as encouraging others through cancer related issues. Even though she was dealt a very difficult cancer diagnosis, she has turned her experience around in the hopes of ... read more
Frugal Crafty Home Blog Hop #140
Hello Lovelies! I have good news and bad news. Let's get to the bad news first... What a week we've had! My poor kids were both sick late Tuesday night. I'll spare you the gross details but let's just say we changed sheets at least four times in one night. Then last night my son came down with a pretty bad fever. We've spent a couple nights this week not getting much sleep & taking care of sick kiddos. I hate it when my kiddos are sick. I'd much rather be the one sick! I'm exhausted. Which brings me to the bad news...I'm sorry to say but there won't be any features at this week's party. I hope you all will understand. Now here's ... read more
Budget Kitchen Makeover
I am beyond excited to show you guys the latest project my hubby and I just finished! To really get a sense of how far this kitchen has come, you'll have to see it as it was when we bought the house. I'll have to warn you...it was pretty ugly! It had pastel blue counter tops, peel and stick tiles, mismatched appliances, and caked grease on every imaginable surface. The kitchen had some good bones but the decor was...well...let's just say it's seen better days. Fast forward a couple of years later, and that ugly duckling of a kitchen is now a beautiful place! This post contains affiliate links for your convenience. See my full disclosure ... read more
Frugal Crafty Home Blog Hop #139
Hey friends! I can't believe it's August already. I am sooooo ready for school to start (but don't tell my hubby that--he's a teacher and NOT looking forward to going back to work!) In Case You Missed It: Summer is such a special time, isn't it? I shared some free Summer Fun Printables at my friend's blog to celebrate one of my favorite seasons of the year. There are four different styles to choose from, so one is sure to fit into your decor! Now Time For The Frugal Crafty Home Blog Hop! Welcome to this week’s Frugal Crafty Home Blog Hop! Amy from A Blossoming Life, Katie from The Casual Craftlete, Kristi from Making It In The Mountains and ... read more
Frugal Crafty Home Blog Hop #138
Welcome friends! Before we move on to the party, I wanted to say a big thank you to all my awesome readers. This week I got a big response to My Story Of Hope. I was beyond thrilled that it reached and encouraged so many of you! Now Time For The Frugal Crafty Home Blog Hop! Welcome to this week’s Frugal Crafty Home Blog Hop! Amy from A Blossoming Life, Katie from The Casual Craftlete, Kristi from Making It In The Mountains and I are all excited to see your latest DIY projects, recipes and crafts! Featured posts from last week: 10 Keys to a Lasting Marriage by Tabler Party of Two Update a Ceiling Fan with Spray Paint by Karen's Up On The ... read more
Summer Fun Free Printables
Summer Fun Free Printables! There's something so special about summer. Fresh blueberries. Lightning bugs. The sun on my skin. These are just a few of my favorite things about summer. Inspired by the summer season, I made some awesome Summer Fun Free Printable artwork over at SarahTitus.com. Be sure to stop by and check them out! What's your favorite thing about summer? This post shared at: Motivational Monday. ... read more
My Story of Hope
Hello lovely readers! Today I'm doing something a little different. I have a story to share. Not just any story--it's a really good story! I originally shared this at Live Beyoutiful and I decided to share it with you too! Some people say God doesn't give you more than you can handle. I completely disagree with that statement. It's not true. That's not what happened to me. About 6 years ago, I watched death and life happen within the same week. My father passed away and I gave birth to a premature baby just three days apart. It was way beyond what I could handle. The fact that I can't do it on my own only ... read more
Frugal Crafty Home Blog Hop #137
A Little of My Life Lately... The hubby and I just took a vacation...without the kids! I highly recommend every couple with children to get away and be with each other at least once a year. It's totally worth it and more. In case you need more convincing, here's 8 Reasons To Take A Trip Without The Kids. Now Time For The Frugal Crafty Home Blog Hop! Welcome to this week’s Frugal Crafty Home Blog Hop! Amy from A Blossoming Life, Katie from The Casual Craftlete, Kristi from Making It In The Mountains and I are all excited to see your latest DIY projects, recipes and crafts! Beautiful Features From Last Week: Oh.my.stars. This Playhouse ... read more
Frugal Crafty Home Blog Hop #136
Welcome to this week's Frugal Crafty Home Blog Hop! Amy from A Blossoming Life, Katie from The Casual Craftlete and Kristi from Making It In The Mountains and I are all excited to see your latest DIY projects, recipes and crafts! This Week at Carrie This Home: This week I shared a story about how God came through to help me do something I thought was impossible. What does that have to do with bookmarks? Well read this Free Printable Scripture Bookmarks post and you'll find out! By the way these bookmarks are a great way to encourage a friend! Awesome Features From Last Week: Rustic Wall Art Frame from Karen's Up On The Hill Relaxing Porch ... read more
Free Printable Scripture Bookmarks
Have you ever been asked to do something you're not ready to handle? About a year ago, I felt God was asking me to step up and help take care of some women in our local church. I knew this was something he wanted me to do but I was scared to do it. I was afraid I wouldn't be able to do it. Many of these women were facing issues I've never dealt with before. I looked at my own abilities and felt I wasn't equipped for the task. I'm disorganized. I'm not the best at remembering details. How can I take care of these women and help them through struggles and issues I've never faced myself? What if I make a big mistake and mess them up? The ... read more
Frugal Crafty Home Blog Hop #135
Welcome to the latest Frugal Crafty Home Blog Hop! Amy from A Blossoming Life, Katie from The Casual Craftlete and Kristi from Making It In The Mountains and I are all excited to see your latest DIY projects, recipes and crafts! Fabulous Features from last week: Restoration Hardware Chandelier Hack from The Honeycomb Home Sweet and Spicy Sriracha Cheese Ball from Frugal Foodie Mama How To Make Easy Valances from C.R.A.F.T Party Information and Rules: Follow Carrie This Home in some way–by email, Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, Google+, Twitter, or Bloglovin’. This blog hop goes live every Sunday at 8 PM Central time. If you’d ... read more
Frugal Crafty Home Blog Hop #134
Welcome to this week’s Frugal Crafty Home Blog Hop! Amy from A Blossoming Life, Katie from The Casual Craftlete and Kristi from Making It In The Mountains and I are all excited to see your latest DIY projects, recipes and crafts! This Week At Carrie This Home: The hubby and I did a Quick and Easy Play House Makeover and boy did it make a HUGE difference! Do your kids have a gazillion stuffed animals? If so, you've got to see this 10 Minute DIY Stuffed Animal Holder! It's easy to make and doesn't cost much! Lovely Features From Last Week: Herringbone Antique Cabinet from Refresh Living Amazing Healthy Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies from ... read more
10 Minute DIY Stuffed Animal Holder
This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #InsideOutEmotions #CollectiveBias #cbias My kids LOVE their new Inside Out plush characters and want to take them everywhere. When I say everywhere, I mean EVERYWHERE. On the couch, in bed, in the car, to Grandma's house and even to the bathroom. Yuck. Let's figure out a way to keep these plush characters off the bathroom floor and clean for play, shall we? Thankfully I have a 10 minute solution and you probably have some of the supplies on hand already. It's a really fun and frugal craft project perfect to do with the kids! Even if you ... read more
Little Tikes House Makeover
One day I had an idea that made me jump up and down and squeal with excitement. If I'm jumping up and down squealing, you know it's a good idea! True story. It all started with a cute little playhouse that needed a little love... My super sweet neighbors had a Little Tikes Play House that their kids had outgrown. Knowing my kids would love it, they offered to give it to us. I have the best neighbors ever! We were grateful to our generous neighbors but there were a couple problems. The color was a little faded Each time we had to mow the lawn, we'd have to move the house of of the way (which is super annoying) If the house stayed in the same spot ... read more
Frugal Crafty Home Blog Hop #133
Happy Father's Day everyone! I can't believe that snuck up on me so fast. How can it be the end of June already!? Welcome to this week’s party! Amy from A Blossoming Life, Katie from The Casual Craftlete and Kristi from Making It In The Mountains and I are all excited to see your latest DIY projects, recipes and crafts! Features from Last Week: Strawberry Pretzel Dessert from The Evolution of Mom 10+ Cool Summer Popsicles from A Pretty Life In The Suburbs DIY Window Trim The Easy Way from Bless'er House Party Information and Rules: Follow Carrie This Home in some way–by email, Facebook, Pinterest, ... read more
Frugal Crafty Home Blog Hop #132
Happy Sunday friends! Last week I took a break from hosting the party. Sometimes it's better to take a break and enjoy time with my family. I have a really good excuse--my family was on vacation to Florida and we went to Disney! My daughter got to meet a whole bunch of characters including Elsa & Anna! You can see the vacation photos here in my Our Florida & Disney Vacation post. This Week At Carrie This Home: I made this DIY Canvas Nursery Artwork for my friend's nursery and really loved how it turned out. Making a canvas artwork is not as difficult (or costly) as you might think! Time For The Frugal Crafty Home Blog Hop! Welcome to this ... read more
5 Ingredient Lemon White Chocolate Cookies
I love finding minimal ingredient recipes because they're so easy and frugal! Just because you're trying to save money in the kitchen doesn't mean you have to skimp on good taste. These lemon and white chocolate cookies are a shining example of the minimal ingredient concept. Just 5 ingredients create a dessert that tastes simply wonderful. The tangy lemon is smoothed out by the creamy white chocolate to create the perfect slightly tart and sweet taste combination! Head over to SarahTitus.com to get the mouth-watering 5 Ingredient Lemon White Chocolate Cookie recipe! This recipe shared at: Tasty Tuesday. ... read more
Our Florida & Disney Vacation
My family just got back from a great vacation to Florida and Disney. With my in-laws. Yes I vacation with my in-laws. That may sound crazy but I'd be crazy not to vacation with them. They've always treated me like one of their own & they're a blast to be around. First, let me get to one of the best parts about our trip. My daughter got to meet Anna and Elsa!! {We discovered some great tips to help keep you from waiting in line all day to see Elsa and Anna (or your favorite Disney attraction)--I'll be posting about that real soon. Click here to subscribe so you don't miss the good tips!} The first day we relaxed and then went walking through ... read more
DIY Canvas Nursery Artwork
My next door neighbor just had a precious baby girl. One day I went to her house to meet the newest addition to our neighborhood and soak in some awesome baby snuggles. Baby snuggles are the best, right? As I excitedly took a tour of her new nursery, she mentioned how much she liked the baby announcements I made for my kids (which look like this) Then she asked if I could make her some artwork for her new baby girl's nursery! I get so excited when I can create things for people I love. Giving a gift that is useful and sweet is so fun! As I was making the nursery artwork, I wrote up a step-by-step tutorial so you can do it too! It's a pretty easy ... read more
Easy Summer DIY Projects {Frugal Crafty Home Blog Hop #130}
Summer is officially here! School is out and we're gearing up for a fun summer of traveling, spending time together as a family and of course a couple of DIY projects! With that in mind, today I'm bringing you some easy DIY projects for the summer {all brought to you by my wonderful Frugal Crafty Home Blog Hop friends!} Each of these projects will spruce up your home in no time. Easy Summer DIY Projects Summer Front Porch Decor from Clean and Scentsible DIY Stair Runner by Karen's Up On The Hill Black and White Home Office from Lipgloss and Crayons Craft Room Closet Makeover from Love My DIY Home Rustic DIY Footstool from Anderson + Grant How To Remove ... read more
17 Almost Painless Money Saving Ideas
My husband and I have two kids, two cats, three cars, a mortgage, all being paid by one income! Through the years we've learned that some of the biggest ways to save money is by changing lots of little things that add up to big savings. Including one step that saved us over $100,000! Today I'm honored to be guest posting at SarahTitus.com sharing 17 Almost Painless Money Saving Ideas. I hope to see you there! This post shared at: Link Party Palooza. ... read more
Frugal Crafty Home Blog Hop #129
Welcome to this week’s Frugal Crafty Home Blog Hop! Amy from A Blossoming Life, Katie from The Casual Craftlete and Kristi from Making It In The Mountains and I are all excited to see your latest DIY projects, recipes and crafts! This Week At Carrie This Home: My 5 Ingredient Sweet + Savory BBQ Pork is super easy to make and can feed a crowd on a budget! Awesome Features From Last Week: I love this inspirational printable from Clementine Creative! This Graduation Marquee Sign will be the perfect gift for your graduate! Adding A Twist To Shelving With Fabric from The Organized Life Party Information and Rules: Follow Carrie This Home in some ... read more
5 Ingredient Sweet + Savory BBQ Pork
This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #ShareAtSchnucks #CollectiveBias This BBQ Pork is perfect to share with family and friends. It's easy to make and two secret steps make it moist and tender! There are tons of important milestones I celebrate with family and friends this time of year. We celebrate Mother's Day, graduations, birthdays, my anniversary and more all in one month. With all those important events happening seemingly at once, life gets crazy busy this time of year. At times I feel like I can't keep my head above water! Just because I'm busy doesn't mean I want to ... read more
Frugal Crafty Home Blog Hop #128
Welcome to this week’s Frugal Crafty Home Blog Hop! Amy from A Blossoming Life, Katie from The Casual Craftlete and Kristi from Making It In The Mountains and I are all excited to see your latest DIY projects, recipes and crafts! This week at Carrie This Home: You'll really have to try this small batch Edible Peanut Butter Cookie Dough. Seriously--it's a great snack to eat while blog hopping! I also shared some ideas to help make Family Game Night happen more often. Awesome featured posts from last week: There was one post from last week's hop that really got my attention. The lovely Patti from Oh Mrs. Tucker! is currently battling ... read more
Edible Peanut Butter Cookie Dough
(This post contains an affiliate link to a mixer I highly recommend. See my full disclosure here.) Sometimes this momma needs something sweet! Have you ever had one of those days where nothing goes your way? When my day isn't going as planned, sometimes just sitting back and enjoying something sweet can be just enough to help me get in a better mood for the rest of the day {hence why I came up with Edible Cookie Dough for One and Edible Sugar Cookie Dough recipes}. One day I was super tired after not getting much sleep the night before. Both of my kids woke up several times in the night, which means I didn't get much sleep either. I decided to try and take a nap ... read more
Make It Happen: Family Game Night
This post is part of a social shopper marketing insight campaign with Pollinate Media Group® and TONY’S® Pizza, but all my opinions are my own. #pmedia #BigPizzeriaTaste http://my-disclosur.es/OBsstV Making fun family memories is something I'm putting high on my priority list these days. I want my children to remember their childhood as a fun time. When my kids are all grown up, I hope they have a lot of fun memories to look back on. As a busy mom, there's always a to-do list that's a million miles long. I struggle with putting that list aside and just enjoying my family. I don't want to look back on these days and wish I would have spent more time with ... read more
Frugal Crafty Home Blog Hop #127
Happy Mother's Day and welcome to this week’s Frugal Crafty Home Blog Hop! Amy from A Blossoming Life, Katie from The Casual Craftlete and Kristi from Making It In The Mountains and I are all excited to see your latest DIY projects, recipes and crafts! Awesome featured posts from last week: Dollar Store DIY(and free printable) from The Evolution of Mom Decorating with Blue from Two Plus Cute Blue Cheese & Bacon Sweet Potato Fries from A Savory Feast How To Paint Your Kitchen Aid Mixer from Dwell Beautiful Party Information and Rules: Follow Carrie This Home in some way–by email, Facebook, Pinterest, ... read more
$300 Target Gift Card Giveaway
Sometimes I think "how did I get so lucky to get these two awesome kids?" They are both spunky, hilarious and super sweet. They won't give a good smile to the camera without making some goofy faces first. Whatever works, right? Motherhood is so rewarding yet challenging all at the same time. As I'm typing this I'm having a potty struggle with my son. I'm living out the challenging part right now! Mothers need to have some encouragement to help on those challenging days. Would a $300 gift card to Target cheer you up on a bad day? I thought so! I'm teaming up with 15 other awesome ladies to give one of you a Target gift card that is sure to brighten your ... read more
