Happy 12-12-12 everyone!!
Today is an extra special day for me because it marks my 3 year wedding anniversary to a pretty spectacular guy.
I LOVE YOU DUDE!!!
Enjoy your day everyone!!!
Happy Anniversary Baby. I love you!
♥Michelle♥
Michelle
Dec 122012
Hiya,
I’m back!! Lots of changes as of late. The biggest one is I’M A MOM!!! Whoa! Time flew by so fast from when I found out I was pregnant to having a 5 month old pull my hair constantly.
I have been truly blessed with a beautiful family and a rockin’ husband (AKA: My baby daddy). He has stepped up to the plate in more ways than I could of ever imagined. I’m talking cooking, laundry, cleaning and even taking baby on weekends so mama can sleep (jealous ladies?).
I must say, having a baby is EXHAUSTING! I know people tell you all the time how hard it is and how you won’t get much sleep, and trust me, you won’t, you have no clue what you are in for until you have this little itty bitty thing staring you in the face and demanding attention and care. This tiny humans need a lot.
Another change is that while baby is still in the early stages of life, mommy will be taking a hiatus from jewelry making for awhile (cue the “awwwwws”). It’s a bit difficult for me to continue with Olivia (see above for reason), but no reason why I can’t continue the blog (at least for my sanity’s sake).
The blog will continue to showcase those stunning handmade items we love so much, but also a few other features, including my failures (and successes) of Pinterest, my DIY life, and my adventures in being a mom. Should I consider a blog name change? You decide. Please decide quickly and don’t say www.rememberlove.com because whoever owns it wants over $2,000 and this mama is NOT having that! F U dude!
So, let’s just roll right into it, shall we.
Today, you have earned yourself a personal shopper, free of charge. Lucky You!! I’m going to create my…I mean…YOUR personal Christmas Wish List because, let’s be honest, when someone asks you what you want for Christmas, you have NO idea what to say.
Jewelry. Yeah, why the F not? After all we all like things that sparkle and noting sparkles more than jewelry (especially with a diamond in it).
So, this is what a conflict free diamond looks like. Ohhh shiny! I love. I want all 3 (multiplied by 10 please). I love, love, love! This can be used as an engagement ring (for those of you ladies still waiting for your man to pop the question), or a ring for your right hand or a gift you gift yourself cause, let’s admit it, your are pretty awesome. Plus, these are handmade, so you can’t ask for more. This shop has tons more beautiful stuff. Check them out: http://www.etsy.com/shop/bmjnyc
So this Chevron pattern trend is not going away anytime soon so you might as well come to terms with it. I kinda like it. In fact, I really like it! Take a look at this adorable clutch. We all need a clutch in our lives, so make it fabulous. Buy me this…I mean, by yourself this… I mean tell people to buy us this. One in every color por favor. I need to coordinate. My baby needs a couple too. I love. Take a peek at their shop, they have tons of other glorious looking items: http://www.etsy.com/shop/MichelleAndKatt
My family and I will be moving (again!) in a few months and we have to buy all new furniture (YAY!), but my husband and I can’t agree on anything. He enjoys the more modern-sleek look while I prefer a classic-chic apperance. Included in this war of furniture is our bedding. Oh, how I want comfy purple room with lavander comforters and lavander candles with a beautiful chandalier hanging overhead. Ahhhhhh, I can see it now. So, for Christmas don’t be afraid to as for something for your home. I like…I mean, I’m sure YOU’D like this elegant set by Lovely Home. It’s simply stunning. I LOVE. Take a glance at their other stuff: http://www.etsy.com/shop/LovelyHomeIdea
I created a treasury with more glamourous stuff for you to put on your Christmas Wish List.
It was nice catching up with you. I’ll be back with lots more goodies.
Cheers,
♥Michelle♥
Yesterday, my husband and I attended a child’s party, a little girl to be exact. Was it weird because our child is still in utero? Not really…we brought our dog 
Same thing right? Yes!
Location of party? A beautiful laid back restaurant by the water that provided catering, booze and seats along with direct access to the ocean. Tons-o-fun! Kids were running all over the place in their bathing suits with their little butts covered in sand. They were wet, but not from the ocean, but from the little puddle of water that formed from the showers where your rinse off. Yes, there is a whole beach behind them and they choose the puddle of dirty water…brilliant.
Parents are chasing behind their children making sure they don’t wander off or drown in the puddle. Kids are tugging and pulling at my poor dog who is hot and miserable after 10 minutes of being there, and strangers who are trying to relax are giving us ”the eye”. I was sitting pretty on the side in the shade making conversation, then the dreaded words were whispered in my ear, “Don’t worry, you are going to be one of us chasing after your kid in about a year”. Ahhhhhh! What? A year? What happened to enjoying the kid while it can’t run? It’s still about 2 months away from making her debut and now I’m thinking of her running around with a soggy diaper and a face full of sand. I look over at my husband and he is holding this beautiful baby girl giving her a drink of water…and my heart just melted. With his level headiness, it’s going to be okay…I hope.
So, since now the image of a 1 or 2 year old little girl is swimming around in my head, I’m just going to go ahead and plan her birthday party. Why? Because in Michelle world, I tend to overplan, overthink, and then have a poor follow through. Therfore, if I start planning now, her party has to be a success. Right? RIGHT?!
What Princess can call herself a princess without the big dress? This is beyond cuteness overload. It’s like, I’m OD’ing on cuters!!!! I can imagine my baby girl running around like the princess that she is, barefoot and all.
Tutusweettutus, please keep this handy so my baby Olivia can dance around in it for her birthday, and possible the day after that and the day after that.
A crown? Why yes please. I might actually just pick this up now (I have spending issues…I know). A beautiful baby crown made for the tiniest princess. Would it be weird if I place this on my baby right out of the womb? I mean, really, she is the going to be ruling this house for a while.
It’s also perfect for her birthday party in a couple of years. Barefoot, with her cutie tutu dress and a crown…wow.
Take a peek at Whisperbugboutique and take a look at all their amazing items. I’m in love.
Since baby Olivia’s birthday will be in the summer, nothing screams summer than lemonade …pink lemonade at that! So now, we have the outfit, the tiara and the party decorations, we can officially have ourselves a party.
Look at what I found on Etsy! A beautiful “pink lemonade” spread and decoration package by PinwheelLane. A vintage inspired birthday party is perfect for our little jelly bean. Can mom have this for her birthday too? I love pink lemonade. I love it even more when it comes from a mason jar with a pinstripe straw.
Well, I think if I start planning this party soon, by the time her first (or maybe 2nd) birthday party rolls around, I will be ready. Etsy shops, please have one reserved for me for next year.
Stay cool this summer everyone!
♥Michelle♥
One of my favorite past times is watching the tourists as they are walking on the roads with NO sidewalks. Either they have a look of TOTAL fear or they are just rolling with the punches. That pretty much describes anyone that ends up living here.
It’s a beautiful island with breath taking beaches and many friendly locals. It’s a wonderful place to visit but for those that are living here, it does have it’s drawbacks (like any other country that is not your own).
Are you moving to Barbados? Allow me to prepare you…
There is such a thing as “island time”. Rarely will you get someone to keep their appointment. Being 30 to 40 minutes late is common and don’t expect an apology. It’s “island time”.
Customer Service does not exist here. I wish I could say it was just me and people here didn’t really like me, but it’s with almost everyone. The ladies (some) at the grocery store won’t even turn to look at you as they are ringing up your items. Just stand their quietly and hope that you don’t get overcharged.
Want to pay your bill at that little kiosk (as is common place here)? Good Luck. If they tell you it’s down it’s more than likely they just don’t feel like taking any more customers.
Keep your doors locked. Although many times it doesn’t get reported, crime DOES happen. Mostly crimes of opportunity but they do happen. Be careful.
Be prepared to pay TRIPLE for your products. Yes, it’s an island and it takes money to get things here but seriously, $15 for cereal. Give me a break! Or give me fresh fruit and/or veggies! Another luxury. Last week hubby paid $15 for avocados…OUCH!
Roads are TERRIBLE here! ZOMG!!!! It’s just looked like patched up artwork.
Don’t get me wrong, there are some pretty awesome things about the island too.
Talk to any older person who has lived here their entire life and they will give you the shirts off their backs. Perhaps the younger generation are losing what Barbados truly is about?
Get lost in the cane fields and there is always a friendly guide at the corner ready to direct you home…and you WILL get lost!
Rum shops are at every corner and someone is always there to engage in some friendly conversation (brush up on your US politics). Barbados also have one of the Best Rum..yummy!
The local cuisine is not my particular cup of tea (I don’t like the fishy) but if you are a fish eater, welcome to paradise.
Well, yeah. So when people ask me how do I like Barbados (which is all the time), I’m just going to refer them to my blog. I like it and then sometimes I don’t.
I must however say, I do LOVE the friends I’ve made here. They are some pretty amazing people who have supported me in the many life changes that have happened in the past year. They keep this place awesome (and me sane), so for that, Thank you girls!!!!!!
Peace out!
♥Michelle♥
Feb 192012
Yes, there is a tiny little human that is growing inside me that I am head over heels in love with. This tiny little human is officially 19 weeks and 1 day old today and loves to move around…A LOT! So much so that when I try to listen to it’s itty bitty heart at home with a fetal doppler, not only does it take me a while, but once I do, I hear it for 10 seconds, kicks me and moves away. Thanks a lot tiny human!
What’s best, this tiny human is a girl! Whoa! That means my life just got a whole lot pinker!
Planning for her arrival, we have officially gone over the “girly” edge. Everything we have purchased this cutie is overloaded with pink. I’m this close of dyeing the dog pink just so he can match the decor. I won’t, I promise…so instead let’s look at some handmade Etsy goodies that will match what will soon be my little princess.
So, it’s not really pink but it’s ADORABLE! I want it! Or better yet, my baby wants to rock these. How old do babies have to be until they can start wearing shoes? Is out of the womb acceptable? Do they make it in mommy size? I want answers people! All kidding aside, these little shoes are cuteness overload. It’s like kryptonite for anyone. Squeeeee. This new mom wants. Thank you Pink2Blue for this creation. I heart you…hard!
So, yes, it’s a pink (sort of), but there are other colors on it too, so I think it’s safe in order to break this pink trend. A couple of weeks ago I was gifted a beautiful wrap by a friend and I was super excited. Now, I have been looking at wraps since before I got pregnant because I think they are the coolest thing ever, but I was never brave enough to hit that “Purchase” button . I can see myself developing an addiction to these things now. This one in particular SCREAMS “Mommy Michelle”. Plus, it’s Organic (SCORE), Handmade (AWESOME) and Beautiful (FANTASTIC!). For only $50, it’s really a steal. LovelyDuds, you are one creative mama. I will be picking one up for you (or 2…3…okay, like 7, one for everyday of the week).Anyone wanting to purchase one for baby, this one would be my #1 pick.
One of those “I thought this was going to be easy” moments was when I began looking at mobiles. I mean really, they are like a gazillion of them out there so why is it so hard to find one that I like ( or better yet, one that hubby and I can agree on). Easier said than done. Alas, the search still continues but I propose adding this one to the ballot. Holy cannoli, this is just perrrrrrrfect for my little princess. It’s pink, it has birds and it’s extra girl. What I like is that they didn’t skimp on the birds. I know, it sounds silly, but I’ve seen some that have like 5 or 6 birds and call it a day. This one is just plain awesome. I want it. Hubby and I still have to agree, but this one is in the lead for me. Now if only I can have it play Adele when it spins. My baby loves Adele…just like her mommy. Keep rocking LoveBugLullabies.
Well, since I’m sort of an attention whore and what better time to get it than when you are pregnant, here is a pic of my belly.
19 week pregnant belly
Say Hi Olivia!!!
♥Michelle♥
That’s right, I love to bake. Am I any good at it? I don’t know, ask the hubby. I know he enjoys the cookies and the flan and the bread when I can make it, but I don’t know if he really likes the dishes.
The only problem is that I don’t know how to measure myself. If make cupackes, I make 50 cupcakes. If I make lasagna I make lasagna for 10 people and its only hubby and I. My waist line hates it but my taste buds are in heaven.
I’m starting to bring stuff into work just so I can continue my need to bake. I know, I need help, but…before I go in search for this help, let me allow to wander through handmade shops and see what I can add to my baking collection.
lisabarbero.etsy.com
TwoSugarBabies.etsy.com TheBirthdayHouse.etsy.com
CandyFlossBB.etsy.com
Yes to all of this! We are a million miles away from just a simple frosted cupcake. Now we have fondant to play with and adorable cupcake liners for all to enjoy! Soon (and by that I mean when I remember to order the supplies), I want to start practicing with making pretty fondant flowers. I actually learned how to make fondant out of Marshmallows. It’s so hard to find the real deal stuff here in Barbados, but I actually think that this stuff tastes a lot better. If you’d like the recipe just shoot me an e-mail for that melt in your mouth sugary goodness stuff. If you’d like to go clicky and purchase just clicky the picture and hit BUY. Send me a cupcake while you’re at it.
♥Michelle♥
The only thing that I love more than vintage is vintage jewelry.
I know I’ve written about this before but I can’t help myself, besides, it’s my blog and I do what I want
Diamonds are classic and one of my all time favorites, but you also have stones like sapphires, opal (LOVE IT!), and rubies. I swoon at the thought of all these beautiful stones (please someone catch me, I’m falling).
Here are a few pieces that have caught my sparkley eyes.
I’ll take 9 of these pleeeease! One for each of my single fingers. Not 10 because of my beautiful wedding ring. I think I can pull it off.
Look at this Eternity Band and tell me you don’t want to buy it…and wrap it…and write a gift note…then send it to ME! I know you do and I won’t stop you. Really! Go ahead and buy it and gift it to me. I’ll take it, no problem. I mean, the ring is a size 6 and guess what? My ring finger on my right hand IS a size 6. Come on, really, it’s meant for you to buy it and send it to me.
208 brilliantly cut diamonds make this special piece. Imagine 18kt white gold of diamondy, sparkly, eye catching goodness.Please go ahead and e-mail so I can forward you my address when you purchase this masterpiece for me.
I love you…I do…so…go ahead and clicky the Buy Button.
THANKS!
Well, since you already going to pick up that beautiful ring, please go ahead and pick me up this bracelet. Tell me it doesn’t remind you of sparkly hurricanes. Antique Diamonds Bracelet Olive Belle Epoque France 1890-1900 available on Etsy for your gifting pleasure.
The thought of a a little piece of old world Europe hanging from my wrist makes me giddy with excitement. This gorgeous bracelet will WOW anyone within a 20 feet radius. There are 124 rose cut diamonds in this baby…I must sit…this is too much yummy for me.
Please, don’t worry about gift wrapping this for me. You’ve already been very generous with me and I heart you for that.
To that lucky duck who currently owns this amazing bracelet…you…are…AWESOME! So selfless in wanting to sell this piece and not wear it every day…all day…while you sleep. I mean, I would NEVER let this go…EVER! But I’m not that cool
Here is a little story for you: During my younger years (very early 20′s, I’m not 30 yet so don’t push it!), I went out on a date with this guy, let’s call him Bob. I forgot how we met but long story short I drove about 1 hour to meet up for this date (trust me, I was not planning on doing that again…EVER!). Any who, we went out to dinner, chatted, flirted had some wine. I was looking killer in my cute dress and heels. I know, I still look hot, but I was extra hot that day. Bob seemed to like it.
Well, we called it a night and said goodbye. Got the usual text message that he enjoyed the evening and would like to see me again. We set something up for that Friday. Bob picks me up we head out. During dinner, he presents me with a box. WHOA, slow down cowboy! I know I’m awesome but chill a bit. He opens the box and gifts me beautiful necklace with a diamond and tanzanite pendant and just like that, I was hooked. I was head over heels in love and smitten… with the necklace. I was floored with the color of the tanzanite. I had never heard of it and wondered how I had lived my life not knowing the joy of this stone. We were meant to be together. Oh…what happened to Bob? After 1 more date I didn’t want to see the guy again, but at least I have tanzanite and diamonds, together forever.
I found this Diamond and Tanzanite Ring on etsy today and I am in love with it. I haven’t seen a tanzanite this big and I WANT IT!. I love it! I NEED it on my hand. It’s a steal at $12,500.
Well, until next time. You are all so awesome <3
♥Michelle♥
Yes, ladies and gentlemen, you’ve read it right! August 15th is National Relaxation Day. Can you believe they have a whole day dedicated to relaxing? I thought Black Friday was my favorite holiday (I know Black Friday is not really a holiday, but in Michelle world it is, so yeah).
Anywho, anything that has to do with relaxing I’m all over that. Everything I own smells like lavender. I’m in a perpetual state of relaxation coma as soon as I step inside my bedroom and I wouldn’t have it any other way!
After the week I’ve had, I can use this day (and maybe a whole month). Here is a collection of some items I’ve found on Artfire that I can soooooo use.
Enjoy!
♥Michelle♥
Whoa, where have I gone? I know…I know…I missed you too! I’m stilling working on balancing work, keeping up with this beautiful website and creating one of a kind jewelry. I’m almost there.
I do, however, have a rare treat for you. As you know we mainly focus on handmade jewelry, but I have discovered something so unique and one of a kind that I am breaking my own “handmade” rule this time. I’ve stumbled upon NanoStyle’s cubic zirconia jewelry. Launched in 2009 after 15 years in the fine jewelry field, the founders push the limits using cutting edge design and bringing with it innovative jewelry. Connecting people of all faiths and forms of spirituality by expressing their faith with what can only be called ravishing jewelry.
So this unique piece of yummy jewelry is made by utilizing an “ion bombarding technique for depositing pure metals on precious stones.” The result is an extraordinary piece with an inscription that cannot be read by the naked eye. It never ceases to amazes me how the jewelry designers are constantly pushing the limits and how technology has change how we do jewelry.
It says ‘I Love You’ in 120 languages. Really! Can you read it? I’m sure you can’t. NanoStyle even gifts you a magnifying glass so you can make it out. Responses I’ve gotten from the pendant include “That is so FREAKING cool”, “That is the most amazing thing I’ve seen in jewelry”, “How do they do it?” and “Where can I get one?”. I revel in the attention! Hee hee!
This pendant is such a treat for me. It goes with everything I wear and you can’t help but draw attention to your neckline (how sexy!).
Initially I hesitated with the combination of yellow gold and silver or white gold. Personally, I’m not used to the combination but they make it work! I choose the I Love you 120 Languages Pendant Onyx. I know, it’s very me . How sweet the pendant is, and for the trend setters, this is definitely a MUST own. ”On a side note: This particular pendant was gifted to Animal Rights Activist and Actress, Pamela Anderson as a “Thank you” from NanoStyle for all her hard work with animal and her International impact on the world. Tell me it doesn’t look fantastic on her.”
A note on the quality of the pendant: One of my concerns was that the writing , with time, would eventually chip or fade so I put it to the test. Not only did I vigorously work out with the pendant on (boxing and yoga anyone?) but I exposed it to tons of sun (working on my tan) and plenty of very salty ocean water (hey, I live in Barbados now, it’s only natural) and showered and slept with it on and guess what? Not a single scratch! Not a single sign of any wear and tear! I am impressed. Looks like I just took it out of the box.
NanoStyle cubic zirconia jewelry does have an array of other designs making it hard to decide on one. It took me a while to pick mines. Please take a minute and look at their websites and check out their designs. Just looking at the detail and how they get to make these designs with the technology is worth a peek.
Well til next time! Thank you NanoStyle for making gorgeous cubic zirconia jewelry! You guys ROCK!
♥Michelle♥
As I get settled into our new home, I’ve discovered that what once was just a jewelry hobby has become an absolute necessity. I itch to sit at my desk and start busting out some jewelry. I have a need to create or else I am not a happy camper.
So, since we have 3 rooms for only 2 people in our new home, my husband got his much bragged about “man cave” and I got my “woman cave” (guess who’s is cleaner?). My cave will become my sanctuary for creativity. I even have an ocean view with a balcony…BOOYAH! I’m so happy for this undisturbed piece of space.
Inspired by the ocean on this spectacular island, I made this:
They will be up on my Artfire soon but for now you can find them here. I just wanted to share them with you. I love these earrings.
I feel perhaps a ‘blue’ theme for my new creative space? What do you think?
♥Michelle♥
