Wednesday Chatter's "Chat"

Been a week you guys and I am sorry....  I so envy you Bloggers out there who post daily. Seriously how do you do it?  Especially in the summer?!  My mind seems to have melted right along with everything else lately.  However I can always find stuff to chat about so here we go...

First, I must tribute my beloved "first" baby. 

Bruno passed away this past Friday after almost 8 wonderful years as our pet.  We got him when he was only 8 weeks old.  He was the most perfect animal to have in my life.  He was big and sweet and gentle as a baby and loved anyone he met. 

Most of you know Bruno's medical history and our story.  If not and would like to, here is a post I wrote about him back in January where we were told there was nothing more we could do for him except keep him comfortable.  Bruno's Story.

I miss him terribly, but I know he is in my heart, that is about all I can say for now.  You dog owners/lovers know what I mean. 

So on to something so super cheerful and DELICIOUS!!!  Check out what the Cupcake Girl has going on.  I am so excited to see her and "Thoughtful Creations" team up and offer yet another fab giveaway and gift basket.  Click here to read all about the Cupcake Drop.  Too awesome.  Also, know of someone who has a wedding coming up?  Cupcake girl also says's "I Do" to weddings.  Oh "Mi Amore"

Mom Togging!!

I would love to share your July 4th Pictures with my readers.  Have a favorite photo you took over the holiday??  Send it to me at lakesidechatter@gmail.com and I will add to the photo gallery coming up in the next post.  I will get us started....

This is my neighbor's daughter, she just happened to turn away from me while playing with that peace sign necklace.  I couldn't resist the combination of youth, peace and the red white and blue colors.  I love when pictures take on a life of their own.  So send what you got.   Photo's can be of anyone, anything, any time of day.  If it is Patriotic, red white and Blue, Fireworks, even hot dogs then send it on.  Can't wait to see them and share.  Make sure you include your name and any info about the photo you would like to share. 

Speaking of Togging.... Must share my new favorite site.  Paint The Moon.  Okay so if you are a togger and new to Photoshop (or even a pro) at photoshop I highly recommend you check this out.  Annie has 100's of unique textures and actions you can download for Photshop, and Photoshop Elements.  I am in love with this chic and her talent for creativity and design.  She has made me like Photoshop (I have had a long time fear of this application and even now learning it sometimes still feels like Greek to me). But she takes a lot of the time and confusion out of editing and comes up with so many wonderful unique actions.  She even responds to e-mails (people she is FAMOUS) so I was so excited when I e-mailed and said "Hi I am a dork and no NOTHING about photshop" and she got back to me very quickly and said "No you are not a dork, try this and try that and e-mail me if you need any help."  And boom.  Instant fan for life.  Take a peek at her stuff,her prices are very very good. she has freebies you can try out and I think you will love her as much as I do. 

Organizing Tip of the Week.

Rubber Band ID

A guest's wineglass won't end up in the wrong hands when one of these brightly colored name tags identifies it.

Thank you Carolina Neat Freak for this tip.  To see more and learn about how a professional Organizer can help you declutter your life check her out at Carolina Neat freak.

New at SUGAR CREEK GARDEN CENTER:

Xeriscaping!

Xeriscaping is landscaping in a way that reduces or eliminates the need for irrigating.

On Saturday, July 23 at 10AM We will be featuring a class on xeriscaping and how you can make your landscape both beautiful and less dependent on irrigation!

For more Information on this event click here : Sugar Creek Garden Center.

Okay my peeps, that is it for now....  I will have more coming by this weekend.  Hugs to you and please keep the comments coming and share the love on Facebook as well.  I couldn't do any of this without you!!


Much Love,
Mary

Get Organized! Introducing Carolina Neat Freak

One of the biggest challenges I have faced since becoming a mom is trying to stay on top of everything.  I remember when the boys were babies and diapers, wipes, burp cloths and bottles littered every ounce of my home.  I assumed (naively) that once they got older it would get easier.

I assumed wrong.

What was once the above mentioned items is now homework papers, overdue library books, Lego’s the occasional half chewed lollipop, kids DVD’s and almost always a sock, now liters just about every corner of my home.  Through in some dog hair and one stay at home Mama who can’t seem to remember where the vacuum cleaner is kept you have one great mess.

So it was with much anticipation (and a bit of intimidation) that I met with the awesome Kristin Lawrence with Carolina Neat Freak.  Why was I intimated you ask?  Well, I was convinced that she would take one look at me and automatically know that my closet is a bottomless pit and that the last time I organized my silverware drawer was pre-kids (horrifying, I know).

But just the opposite.  Kristin met me over coffee one day last week and with genuine ease and likability handed me a folder with information on her business; plenty of pictures, organizing tips, lists and a way to contact her.  I was put at ease immediately and that was within the first 2 minutes.  I must mention that because when you turn your house over to someone to help organize and shape up you want to be put at ease and I was instantly with her bright smile and her clear joy for helping people get back in control of staying organized.

Kristin found her organizing knack early on and gives most of the credit to her Grandmother who started her off young with making sure she picked up her toys and put everything away where it belonged.  Things always stayed clean and neat and from there Kristin began to follow in her Grandmother’s footsteps not only with herself but her friends, especially as she got older and began to help out class mates keep their work organized.    Before long she discovered how much she enjoyed this role and now after years of being a professional organizer she still loves every second of her family inherited gift.

Originally from Pittsburgh, Kristin has a Master’s Degree in Business Administration with a Marketing background.   She has been married for 13 years to her husband David, stays at home with children, Hunter (9) and Hayley (6), and currently resides in the Fort Mill area of South Carolina.  

Like a lot of Momprenuers, she began her business simply by helping out some friends and family members become better organized.  A quick note to mention, Carolina Neat Freak is not a cleaning service (vacuuming, scrubbing, etc...)  Instead Kristin is devoted to helping you find simple solutions for a Clutter free home.   She has 15 years of experience being a Professional organizer and tells me no job is too little or two small.   One of the cool things I learned while chatting with her is she goes above and beyond by helping you make use of things you already have around the house that you can use for organization.   The idea that I might actually have space and areas of storage I never knew I had was a great thought to digest.

After chatting with her for awhile I could begin to visualize Kristin’s high energy and love for organization being able to help not just me, but many people like me who are worse off than my cluttered house.  Some people are really in bad shape and need an action plan to start somewhere.  One of the key components in helping and hiring a professional to do so is to not only get you up off of the ground and take away the helplessness feeling of being overwhelmed.  I know I have been there.  Many times I have stood in my closet and not knowing when or where to start will turn around and walk out. 

In my case only a few months have gone by, but I know for many it can be years and over that time the loss of control and unorganized life can cause a lot of stress and frustration.  Kristin does point out that she is not a psychologist, although she has access to many resources in this industry.  Her skill and experience lies within helping you set up a system that makes sense to you and your particular situation whether it is a messy garage, a cluttered kitchen or pantry, or even if you have just moved into a new home and need help organizing your new living pace and set up.   A professional organizer will help you get motivated, set up priorities will teach you new ways to manage your time and deal with clutter.

Here are a few before and after Photos of jobs that Kristin has done over the years...

So if you have been wondering if getting organized is worth your time I highly recommend you contact Kristin.  Here is how her process works:

First – You get a FREE 30 minute phone consultation to discuss your needs and ensure a good fit.

Second -In person session (60-90 minutes) where you will clarify your goals and develop a step by step plan for success.  Once she has answered all of your questions and assessed the situation she will then schedule a hands on organizing session ($50.00 fee for this session).

Third – Organizing Session: You will then work with Kristin to fulfill your goals.  As you move through each step she will provide guidance, structure and will modify as you go along and move at a pace that works for you.   The number of hours involved will vary by project ($50.00 fee per hour for these sessions)

Fourth – Follow up.  Once you have completed your organizing sessions she will be available by phone or person for a complimentary one hour session to maintain your newly organized space (s)

Labels, tags, & some bins are provided the first organization session.  Also she let the client borrow tote bins for "Trash, Donate, and Keep" stuff so it is easier to organize.

Kristin is also happy to help you install hardware (hanging shelves, cabinet spacers etc...)
In a nut shell, the client has no need to lift a finger; Carolina Neat Freak will do it all.

Make sure you visit   www.carolinaneatfreak.com. For more information and how to go about scheduling a consultation.  Kristin will be happy to help you get back on track; In fact she is offering a great summer special for Lakeside Chatter.   When you make contact with Kristin, mention your saw her article on Lakeside Chatter she she will give you a 10% discount off of your first organization session of $50.00. 

So glad to have Carolina Neat Freak be a part of Lakeside Chatter’s family.  I know you will be just as impressed with Kristin, her great ability and experience to help you take control again over a part of your life that for so long has been controlling you!

Happy Memorial Day

The sun is shining, the pools are open, school is almost done (if not already). The heat is blazing, grills are grilling, the beer is cold and the patriotism shines in all forms on this day of remembrance... 

"And they who for their country die shall fill an honored grave, for glory lights the soldier's tomb, and beauty weeps the brave."

~Joseph Drake

In honor of all those men and women who lives have been lost in war.  In honor of all of soldiers currently serving our country and in honor of all of our veterans who have bravely served with their hearts, their minds and their souls. I know I am so very proud and blessed to be in this great country of ours. 

By pure chance, My son had a shirt on the other day that sums up this weekend perfectly:

THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR ARMED FORCES Present past and Future!!
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So what's going on this week around the Chatter? 

Well lemme tell ya. 

First, mark your calendars for next Saturday, June 4th.  Steele Creek Outreach is having it's second Family Fun Day Fair held at River Hills Community Church in Lake Wylie from 11:00-2:00 p.m.

This is a family fun day you don't want to
miss. They will have a variety of activities such as: face painting (by yours truly), live music, fun balloon making by Royal Ruckus, paper bracelet coloring, cupcake decorating, fun tattoos and much more; plus great food and drinks for everyone. There will be a raffle from some of your favorite local eateries and a silent auction with lots of fabulous options! All proceeds will go to Steele Creek Outreach, a local non profit Incorporation that assists the homeless in Mecklenburg and York Counties.
**Price $20.00 per family and can be purchased at the door.**   This includes: 2 slices of pizza and 15 tickets that can be applied to games, additional food, fun balloons, and/or the silent auction. Additional tickets will be sold at the event. For more information visit their facebook page be clicking HERE

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The Cupcake Girl is doing something pretty special that you need to check out... Read below a special note from Jen: 

"With all of the devastation out West with the tornado's, I feel the need to try to help. SO for every order the month of June, The Cupcake Girl will give 25% to Samaritan's Purse for disaster relief. It's not a lot, but together we can try to help families who have lost everything. Just trying to make life sweeter....one cupcake at a time!"

Jen you rock and so do your cupcakes!!! Make sure your check out her blog and facebook page and order some fantastic tasting cupcakes for any occasion as well as for a GREAT cause!!

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Summer is kicking over at Sew What Mommy. Make sure you check out some of their new adorable summer appliques and other great new items from Amy and Jen.

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Okay so, I Must give a shout out to the very gifted and talented Christine Barbera with Thoughtful Creations.  when asked to design a birthday basket for my mother in law for her birthday, she went above and beyond and came up with a creation that when I first saw it was utterly speechless.  While providing Christine with just a few nuggets of information on my mother in laws tastes and preferences, she came up with an extraordinarily design that just beautiful and uniquely detailed to fit this very special lady in my life.

If you are looking for a special gift for a special someone checkout Thoughtful Creations on Facebook.

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So for the past few weeks you may have noticed some advice and organizational tips being posted.  Well, I am happy to announce that Carolina Neat Freak is now a sponsor of Lakeside Chatter and I couldn't be more thrilled.  I sat and met with Kristin Lawrence last week and immediately responded to  this awesome gal and her wonderful talent for organizing not just your stuff but also your life.  I walked away totally impressed with not just her business but also her outlook.  "I LOVE it" she tells me when I asked if she enjoyed helping people get organized.  

She is a true gem and I hope all of you Chatter readers will check her out.  Look for a full feature article coming this week!

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Hope you all have a fantastic week and please check back soon and often and leave me comments as I just love love it when I hear from all of you!!  

With Love and Blessings,

Mary

Mommy Love - A Mother's Day Giveaway

Mommy...
I could barely wait until I was one.
Because mine did it so well.
She had the answers to EVERYTHING, she made the best pancakes called "clouds" (that is how light and fluffy there were)
She helped me grow and change and yes we had the infamous teenage "rough patch" but she never once gave up on me.
She was there when I needed just about anything.
Even when I didn't know what that "anything" was, she was there somehow knowing...
Always knowing, helping, inspiring.
and loving.
And I love her now more than I ever thought I could.
Because I am one too.
A Mommy.
My story is different.  I have two boys.  She had two girls. Twins actually.

My twiny and my Sweet Mommy.

My boys are not twins but they are close enough.  12 months and 5 days exactly.  On most days it feels like twins.  And I love this because it reminds me of my childhood, my experiences with someone who was on the same playing field.  She got me and I got her and we too had the "rough patch"  She was way to smart and responsible for me to "hang" with her.  I mean like OMG right...  But deep down I admired her, her ability to stand up to anyone, her confidence, the smart way she handled everything.  Yet, without a doubt she was and still is my best friend.

And now she is a Mommy too.

Me and Evan with my sis and her little man.

Also to a boy.  A beautiful blond headed mess of a boy, who I love just as if he were my own. and if it is possible I think I admire her even more.  Because one of her biggest strengths is how she nurtures, how she loves, how she would do anything for anyone. 
And guess who taught her....

Mom!

And so here we are.

Three Mommies. 

And I love them so much.

They still teach me, help me and love me.

And I am so grateful, so blessed and so honored I get to be on this journey with them.

So I have a great gift this week.  A beautiful basket full of everything perfect for the Mom, grandmother, sister, wife, friend etc... in your life.

Here is what is inside this beautifully detailed basket by Thoughtful Creations:

Bath & Body works in secret wonderland.

(2) small candles from Bath & Body works in Mojo and margarita.

Lime Rose hand petals soap.

Lemon soap in the shape of a Margarita glass.

Photo album.

Hot pink spa socks.

Hot pink bling nail file.

M&M's in orange, pink, and lime green.

Cute tissues with little ladies chatting and laughing on them.

Bubble bath in the shape of a lime flower.

Frosted cookie lip gloss.

Lime flavored butterfly Fitz for the bath tub.

Shimmering powder to put on the body.

Lime green manicure kit to do your feet.

*** custom shreds in orange, hot pink, and lime green**

A BIG thank you To Christine Barbera with Thoughtful Creations who designed this basket just for you.  Make sure you visit Christine's Facebook page and check out what beautiful gift basket's she makes for ANY occasion.

So here is how you Could Win this Fab Basket



Leave a comment below.

Or:

 Send me an e-mail to lakesidechatter@gmail.com with your name and website or blog if you would like.

Or:

Become a Follower of the Chatter and/or Like my Facebook page

Or:

Pass on my blog to other Mommies sharing this wonderful giveaway, leave me a comment that you have done so.

Winners announced Thursday morning by 8:00 a.m.  Good luck and don't forget to celebrate the joy of Mother hood all week long, I know I will.

Peace and Love,

Mary





The Cupcake Girl

How can you not love that name ?  Cupcakes just make life a little sweeter and I am so happy I officially introduce you to Jen Stansbury who is the "Girl" Behind the "Cupcake."

I was fortunate enough to taste these delicious creations last month at the Spring Fling.  They are not only Scrumptious, but offer a variety of choices for families who may have a food allergy or aversion (i.e eggless cupcakes, gluten free etc..)  There are also a varity of flavors to chose from and she is happy to design a special creation for just about any occassion. 

Buttercream icing to look like roses.

Jen has been baking yummy recipes made from scratch since November of 2009.  She is a Mom, a daughter, freind and neighbor and loves to bake and would love to share some homemade cupcakes just for you.  In fact NOW through May 15th if you mention LAKESIDE CHATTER you will receive a 10% Discount on any order.  So perfect for upcoming Mothers Day, birthdays, special occassions or if you just need to....

Because why not!! Thank you to Jen for offering this great deal for all Chatter readers and friends. Make sure you check out her website and also visit and like her facebook page as well.

Now go order some cupcakes and enjoy the Sweetness of homemade goodness straight from the heart.  You can reach Jen at thecupcakegirl@rocketmail.com

With Love, and icing on my fingers,

Mary

Happy Tuesday

So this is my view this week....

Just Kidding....  But not far off.  I am on Spring Break vacation on Daufuskie Island just off of Hilton Head SC.  Those chairs sit overlooking the Calibogue Sound and you know me and my camera had to take a photo.
But alas it is Tuesday and Tuesday brings my favorite topic of Sponsor Love!  So please checkout these great ladies, great products (cupcakes anyone?) and great new things happening to our community.

In case you missed the news (how could you right I mean you read the Chatter daily right...right....??)  Make sure you checkout last week's post about the new "Wylie Gateway on the Lake" and the "Lake Wyile Bowl n Bounce "coming soon!!  Can't wait for this to open in the fall 2011. 

A big hello and welcome to Jen Stansbury or better known as The Cupcake Girl. 

I was fortunate to taste one of these delicious cupcakes at the Baxter Spring fling last month  So delicious and what is really cool about this chicky is she offers Eggless, vegan and gluten free cupcakes for you and the little ones.  Check out her blog and make sure you like her facebook page as she is going to do a drawing at the end of the month for one lucky facebook fan to win a dozen FREE cupcakes of your choice.  More info on The Cupcake Girl and her awesome shop coming up in my next post.  Thank you Jen for being a part of the Chatter. 

If it is possible, yet more adorable designs from Sew What Mommy.  Check out this outfit: 

Stop the cuteness right?  With summer almost here make sure you put in an order for sweet outfits for your little ones or as gifts. 

Last week's Chatter feature was Lauren with The Plumfield Shop.  I hope you found her Etsy shop as sweet and charming as I do.  Make sure to read her story here and take a peek at her shop which offers all kinds of beautiful items.

Make sure to also check out volunteer opportunities from Steele Creek Outreach and don't forget to mark your calendar for Saturday,April 30th for the River Hills Yard Sale which helps their preschool.  On top of the yard sale, Erin Jackson with Madison Lane Photography and will be taking free photos and offering 5x7 prints for $5 and 8x10 prints for $10. The sale is Saturday April 30th from 7-12pm.


Hope you all have a great Tuesday and make sure to check soon for Aprils Giveaway goody announcement.  Hint...  "Low country Flair"

With Love,
Mary

Mark your Calendars.

Happy Tuesday Chatter Peeps!!
I wanted to send out a few updates of things coming up form my sponsors who I love love love and want to pass on the love by doing weekly updates.  Please help support my sponsors and get ready to mark your calendars for some great stuff and products.

Sugar Creek Garden Center:

"Container Days" is Friday, Sat, and Sun. (please see their info on their FaceBook events page here  )
They also have recently "unveiled" the pavilion - so the place is re-organized and looks awesome!!
Also (VERY EXCITING) Soline, a Bpeace ‘Fast Runner’ will be visiting Sugar Creek Garden Center this Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday (13th, 14th, 15th). She is a garden center owner from Rwanda who has been in business for 12 years. Her trip is being sponsored by the non-profit organization BPeace. BPeace was founded in 2002 and is a non-profit network of business professionals who volunteer their time and share their skills with entrepreneurs in conflict-affected countries including Afghanistan, Rwanda, and El Salvador, believing creating jobs, creates peace. Bpeace made a commitment as part of joining the Clinton Global Initiative to create One Million Jobs for Peace.

Madison Lane Photography: Erin and her FABULOUS photography will be at the Spring Festival held at River Hills Church on Saturday, April 30th from 7:00-12:00 she will be there taking pictures for free for Mother's Day and will be offering 5x7 prints for $5 and 8x10 prints for $10. A great gift for Mothers Day!!

Sew What Mommy: More appliques on deck. These are just cuter than cute and perfect for spring and summer months coming. Check out their blog and facebook page for pictures and how to order.

Thoughtful Creations: Even more Mother's Day greatness, basket giveaway for May will come form the super talented Christine Barbera and be filled with so much great stuff including:

(2) small candles from Bath & Body works in Mojo and margarita
lime rose hand petals soap
lemon soap in the shape of a Margarita glass.
photo album
hot pink spa socks
hot pink bling nail file
cute tissues with little ladies chatting and laughing on them
bubble bath in the shape of a lime flower
And Much MORE!!!! Whoever wins this is going to be super lucky and I encourage you all to tell all your friends to enter the giveaway. More info on how to enter and when the contest will start will be posted soon!!!
Steele Creek Outreach:
Looking to volunteer, please make sure to check out SCO website and learn more about how you can help homelessness in our city.  They have several upcoming events scheduled through May including "Operation Mayday" which helps prepare Easter meals for families who are homeless.  For More information visit thier Facebook Page here.
Thanks again to all my wonderful sponsors, friends, neighbors, family and EVERYONE who is making Lakeside Chatter a true joy in my life and hopefully in yours.

Now go mark your calendars!!! And if there is anything coming up you think would be a great fit to post on Lakeside Chatter please feel free to send me an e-mail at lakesidechatter@gmail.com or leave me a comment. Have a Great Tuesday!!

With Love,

Mary