tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-831587151038426482012-03-03T08:40:03.573-08:00Goodbye city, Hello suburbs!Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.comBlogger1971100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-91098674065555277192012-03-01T20:53:00.000-08:002012-03-01T20:53:15.734-08:00

my St. Patrick's door decoration! I got it out from the attic to put it on my front door. You can see how I created this master piece HERE! Happy St. Patrick's Day!!!

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-37356387962390435902012-02-06T08:21:00.000-08:002012-02-06T09:19:32.756-08:00

It's called a snickerdoodle. Simply a whimsically named cookie and perfect for Valentine's Day and my loves. And since I am pregnant the best cookie EVER! Recipe: 1 cup butter1 1/2 cup sugar2 eggs2 3/4 cup flour2 tsp cream of tartar1 tsp baking soda1/4 tsp salt cinnamon mixture2tbsp sugar plus 2 tsp cinnamon Cream butter, sugar eggs. Add dry ingredients. Shape into balls and roll into

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-1993039417757973552012-02-05T11:20:00.000-08:002012-02-06T09:27:19.866-08:00

  Today I read the Pinterest article in the Sunday paper, in the business section, of the Chicago Tribune. I realised that I was a middle aged mom. I was a little insulted by this terminology because I do not find myself middle aged even though I am a mom in my thirties. I wish they could have used something besides "middle aged."  like moms with young children, creative ideas and a zest for the

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-55651595391527611872012-01-13T12:37:00.000-08:002012-01-13T12:37:59.012-08:00

                                 During my pregnancy I have had several ultra sounds. At 18 weeks I had one and I asked the tech and the doctor the sex of the baby. They both thought it was a boy. I went home and broke the news to my husband. He seemed very disappointed that we were not having a girl.  He was sure it was a girl. Maybe just optimistic because he was longing for one. I was

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-55373821245605177342011-12-27T10:30:00.000-08:002011-12-27T10:34:57.147-08:00

Today I am 35. In my early 20's I would have never predicted to be where I am today (I clearly remember saying I didn't want to have any children). I am married with a husband that loves to cook (how did I get to be so lucky?), a son that keeps me active and another child on the way. I am half way through my 2nd pregnancy and taking on a new adventure with a friend. Some of my well educated,

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-48091229445629200442011-12-25T07:27:00.000-08:002011-12-25T07:27:13.996-08:00

Merry Christmas Everyone! I hope your Holiday brings much joy and love!

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-50401897360383589052011-12-20T00:27:00.000-08:002011-12-20T00:27:01.329-08:00

My Elf is really busy this year, he has hardly had time to sit down. I can't believe I am knocking things off my list left and right! You can see a list of my activities here, here, and here. Saturday's adventure was to the Museum of Science and Industry. It's a great museum filled with trains, planes, simulated tornados and lightning, an old Chicago street, a drop in a coal miners elevator, the

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-53349679449339473412011-12-19T00:30:00.000-08:002011-12-19T00:30:02.071-08:00

1. Watch Elf (we got this one right out of the way!) 2. Buy our Christmas Tree and get the decorations up 3. Visit Santa and his reindeer 4. Visit Christmas Around the World and Holiday Lights at the Museum of Science and Industry 5. and visit the Winter Wonderland Holiday Light Show in Vernon Hills Thank you Daily Herald for bringing Santa and his reindeer to the nearby conservatory! We

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-75845519123553306872011-12-16T07:29:00.000-08:002011-12-16T07:30:31.889-08:00

I can cross off activity #5 1. Watch Elf (we got this one right out of the way!)     2. Buy our Christmas Tree and get the decorations up     3. Visit Santa and his reindeer     4. Visit Christmas Around the World and Holiday Lights at the Museum of Science and Industry     5. and visit the Winter Wonderland Holiday Light Show in Vernon Hills Mind you, these pictures were taking in a small

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-48075287925328776172011-12-14T09:26:00.000-08:002011-12-14T20:12:59.439-08:00

For my 30th birthday my friends gave me this t-shirt. "To know Lloyd is to Love Lloyd." I wore it proudly that night (and many other times) while bowling my heart out.  It's true one of my favorite movies is say anything. PLUS+++ I think my husband kind of resembles John Cusack,  just a tiny bit.  (excuse the wrinkled t-shirt, it's been in storage) Enough of me tripping down memory lane and on

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-69057040423669880152011-12-12T14:00:00.000-08:002011-12-12T14:07:11.874-08:00

Last years holiday wreath went up on the door again this year.  Not that I wasn't inspired to create, I am just kinda tired from all the doctor visits and my pregnancy in general. Here is the post as to how I created this super easy, Holiday Wreath. They make wonderful hand-made gifts. Last year I bought this plain reindeer on clearance at Marshal's and this year I put a cute little bow on

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-21638464641007437572011-12-06T10:09:00.000-08:002011-12-06T10:09:00.195-08:00

I did a little hunting around this weekend and saw these amazing holiday projects and I thought I would share these for Workshop Wednesday. Next week I will highlight what I fancied at this weeks party! Cute as a Button from Cup Of Delight This little yarn snowman by Madeinaday and the Christmas Tree Message by Crafty Endeavor The party guidelines are simple... I just require a hyperlink or

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-19231576100295562272011-12-05T11:02:00.000-08:002011-12-05T11:02:02.468-08:00

It is that time of year again and I have started my list of Must Do Holiday Activities! 1. Watch Elf (we got this one right out of the way!) 2. Buy our Christmas Tree and get the decorations up 3. Visit Santa and his reindeer 4. Visit Christmas Around the World and Holiday Lights at the Museum of Science and Industry 5. and visit the Winter Wonderland Holiday Light Show in Vernon Hills I can't

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-1122788598934559592011-12-02T07:24:00.000-08:002011-12-02T07:41:19.360-08:00

The Nester is having a a party about a Few of Your Favorite Things- like Oprah.  I thought I would join with a twist, since I am pregnant there are a few things that I well... crave. My poor  husband tracked down a chicken taco salad for me during my 1st pregnancy and I have to admit that things have not changed during the second pregnancy. I'm just saying that these things taste or smell

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-85225834390499152682011-12-01T07:45:00.000-08:002011-12-01T16:45:26.792-08:00

The old friend is you blogger, I have missed you, as I hug my computer. I needed a little time away from you so I could feel better and not worry about anything but my health. Thank you EVERYONE for the thoughts and prayers, they have energized me. My old self would be bouncing off the walls like new but right now I am more like a slow tortoise. Now on to pregnancy and the best parts of it. 

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-89954486383355834202011-11-21T09:41:00.000-08:002011-11-21T09:42:16.799-08:00

I want to apologize to my readers and Workshop Wednesday participants for my blogging absence. I have exciting news, I am pregnant but (and I really hate this but part) my pregnancy has some complications and because of this I have to focus on my health and the health of the child. I will post Workshop Wendneday the first week of the month and hopefully be able to post and share more as my

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-38546835010954161642011-10-25T12:01:00.000-07:002011-10-25T12:01:00.442-07:00

I hope everyone is getting into the Halloween spirit. I sure am trying. You can check out why I am trying @ Why I Secretly Hate Halloween. I know I have been behind on my posts but things got a little busy around here with surgeries and parties. I will post all about it soon! My favorite part of the party is highlights! I am highlighting... Ghostly delights by Simply Designing Pumpkin

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-22911470493836776012011-10-24T19:56:00.000-07:002011-10-24T20:00:02.695-07:00

For my son's party favors I made these cute little guys. Just some pipe cleaners, googly eyes and hot glue. Twist the pipe cleaners and hot glue the eyes on, easy peasy! The kids just loved them!

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-82253061111975892412011-10-18T10:12:00.000-07:002011-10-18T10:12:49.691-07:00

  Since Halloween is right around the corner, I thought I would show off the creative Halloween projects that everyone posted. Starting with... Pumpkins, it's just not Halloween without pumpkins. I really loved the Ugly Duckings vintage pumpkins.  The Hungry Happenings is having fun with their food. How about a little Frankenstein spinach dip!                                               The

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-52964906300169936672011-10-04T17:55:00.000-07:002011-10-04T17:57:07.980-07:00

Sorry about the absence of my linky party last week. A bug got me and it sweep me off my feet literally. Who knew a little bug bite could do so much damage? Hey Workshop Wednesday partiers did you check out these great projects? Creepy popcorn hands from Aunt Nubby's Kitchen. I think I would be the talk of the neighborhood if I passed out these treats on Halloween! I think this is such a

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-19383512003468448322011-09-22T06:41:00.000-07:002011-10-02T10:04:10.404-07:00

Remember how I posted "That I secretly Hate Halloween?"Well in an effort to combat this contagious disease that nobody but myself seems to have, my first Halloween creation is my son's birthday card.  I made it using picnik and I sent it to Costco to print. I had to go there to do some shopping and I thought I would kill two bids with one stone. Here is how it turned out... The best part, for 20

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-29567513612322464482011-09-20T18:10:00.000-07:002011-09-20T18:11:36.031-07:00

Happy 25th birthday Workshop Wednesday, do you feel a quarter of a century old? I have birthday parties on my mind. My son is turning 2 soon and I am prepping for the party. I made the invitation, I planned the meal and I am currently making the favors. I will post these soon! But first I would like to give a shout out to the amazing projects that people linked. Project #1 Weekly planner from

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-24015401040059545362011-09-20T09:19:00.000-07:002011-09-22T08:04:31.121-07:00

I have hated Halloween for the last 30 years. My first Halloween memory is when I was 3. I wanted to be wonder woman (it was the 70's what girl didn't want to be her back then). I wanted a costume that looked like this: Lynda Carter's REAL DEAL: Gold tie belt, two gold wristbands, red tall go-go boots, a blue bathing suit bottom with a red tank top and topped off with a gold crown. In my head

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-56425882063989547032011-09-17T11:33:00.000-07:002011-09-17T11:33:07.361-07:00

It is with sadness that I change my babies room into a toddlers room. In my mind he will always be my baby. We moved into our house in January and I never really set up his room. I just made it into a hodgepodge of things and stuffed him in there. I knew I was going to eventually change it and eventually has come.  First step painting. We cleaned everything out this weekend to paint. I choose a

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-27612756244405884972011-09-13T14:30:00.000-07:002011-09-13T17:41:39.488-07:00

  As I look around my house I realise that I have done almost NO decorating. As I look at all the wonderful project my linky party goers post,  I would be a moran not to show some of them off!  In lieu of others who are currently decorating- check out these decorative delights! (p.s. here is a picture of the basement door that I finifshed last week that I forgot to post) Paper Hearts...

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-3461437273440850782011-09-12T14:31:00.000-07:002011-09-13T15:41:04.920-07:00

Basement Door Before.... Basement Door After... Nothing fancy just a little American Walnut stain. I just have to get around to cleaning the windows and painting that ugly yellow trim at the top. Hmmm I wonder if my husband is going to bother me about it, understand why in this post CreativeJuice

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-13204755777173420552011-09-06T20:54:00.000-07:002011-09-06T20:55:33.139-07:00

I finished my door! To bad I forgot to take pictures of it in the daylight- it will have to wait til tomorrow. {picture will be inserted here tomorrow} Today lets concentrate on a recycled project... Polish the Star's Funky Record Clock. An organizational project... That's What She Said's Apothecary Jars. A decorative project... Shabby Loco Big Balls and a craft project...  Blink or You'll

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-69861920889572846312011-09-06T20:09:00.000-07:002011-09-06T20:17:37.853-07:00

I made it to the Cumberland Bakery this weekend. The last time we tried to go it was closed, not this time! The front door was wide open and the smell was unmistakable. My mouth was watering before I even saw the baked goods! I could not decide what delicious bakery treat I wanted to inhale first. Will it be one of  these coffee cakes? Their powdered danishes or... their cinnamon raisin

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-39449536729025569702011-09-02T14:09:00.000-07:002011-09-02T22:23:14.568-07:00

When one thinks of Chicago you think of skyscrapers, the bean, the Water tower, etc... These are the landmarks downtown. If you head 20 minutes north of downtown and get off at Tower Road you can enter the most beautiful, tranquil landscape the city has to offer, the Botanical Gardens. It is rolling hills of green foliage, flowers, and walkways. There are lots of hidden passageways to explore.

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-50090947185089499712011-08-31T08:23:00.000-07:002011-08-31T18:44:16.603-07:00

Goodbye City Hello Suburbs I received this call from my dad in the morning, he said " Karen the basement flooded." All your things are ruined. I have been hoarding my things in the left corner of his basement for years. Ummmm 15 to be exact. I swear I have tried to remove "my stuff" from his basement many, many times. What happens is I take some things out and then I go back and added more

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-20920590315134066212011-08-30T13:42:00.000-07:002011-08-30T20:30:29.734-07:00

Crepes or as I like to call them creps. My husband showed me some love the other morning by making this yummy breakfast. Maybe I should show him some love back by finishing this door: Maybe latter honey...Right now, I'm enjoying my breakfast. Thanks! Recipe for Crepes batter: 2 Beaten eggs 1 1/2 cups of milk 1 cup flour1 tablespoon cooking oil(make 18 crepes) Combine eggs, milk, flour oil,

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-32752978498196909742011-08-30T12:18:00.000-07:002011-08-30T21:27:47.010-07:00

                                                             I went to Blogy Boot Camp and I was inspired to create a new header. What do you think? I will share more about this event in a future post- hang on! So many people that link to the parties have such inspiring things to feature, why is there so little time to create...? Hooked on Needles cute little tote... Artsy Fartsy Mama's little

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-62676496152024966242011-08-30T08:27:00.000-07:002011-12-14T23:17:53.717-08:00

Oh how I feel the love when my husband makes crepes- strawberry this time!Recipe coming soon! See my recipe here!

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-34591747350971102612011-08-26T06:46:00.000-07:002011-08-26T06:46:00.105-07:00

I have decided that I am going to write a weekly post on fridays highlighting a blog that has impressed me. It's just the teacherly thing in me to do. This week I encourage you stop stop by Julia's blog, Sweet Serendipity.                      Where she has created this amazing Pottery barn knock off. I don't know about you but I think we should all knock off a few pottery barn projects maybe

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-61421214099468011202011-08-25T10:17:00.000-07:002011-08-25T15:21:37.334-07:00

When my husband and I were getting married we decided to register at Macy's and Bed Bath and Beyond. I was fixated on getting my fine China. That was all I wanted. I think I nearly drove my bridesmaids crazy over it. I have been dreaming of eating on my own china for years, inviting people over to eat on it.  I went as far as being the first to break it in. Alone. Once I picked out the perfect

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-11409329539822447722011-08-23T15:40:00.000-07:002011-08-23T22:19:20.029-07:00

                                                   Well would you look at that, Workshop Wednesday is legal. I am trying to motivate myself to finish the basement door. I started removing the paint 3 weeks ago. My husband has commented that it needs more sanding and some stain, 21 times now. Hopefully I don't have to hear him say it another 21 times. I'd like to know who this nagging woman is

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-77075166360218117012011-08-16T08:16:00.000-07:002011-08-16T17:49:27.820-07:00

On our first day of our Staycation we decided to go out as a family and enjoy breakfast. I pass this breakfast place all the time on the way to my mother-in-laws so we decided to go there and try it. Great minds must think alike, apparently they were on vacation too. We will just have to wait to enjoy their quiche and pastries after August 17th when they reopen.  This week I am highlighting the

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-62211258615193880222011-08-15T10:58:00.000-07:002011-08-17T19:03:28.649-07:00

Nothing beats food on a stick, so why not S'mores? We loved them as kids, we can still love them as adults. Make them into a fun dessert everyone can enjoy! the recipe: bake a chocolate cake break up the cake and mix it with a can of chocolate frostingroll the mixture into ballsplace them on a stickdip them in chocolateroll it in crumbled graham crackersand top them with marshmallows Try and

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-46696696075428364022011-08-14T19:26:00.000-07:002011-08-16T17:34:29.049-07:00

I am doing a little dance, making a little love, I'm sittin' down tonight, that's right I'm sitting down tonight!In my newly upholstered french chair. If anyone ever tells you that upholstering this type of chair is easy they are L-Y-I-N-G to you! I must admit I did some yelling, throwing, and swearing while putting the material on plus I hammered my thumb and burned my hand on the iron. Was it

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-48227543969637769022011-08-09T00:28:00.000-07:002011-08-08T16:57:55.411-07:00

To continue on with my "SWEETS" themed week, here are a few sweets for all  my sweets that link up each week. I don't know how I'd get along without you! And honestly, I don't know how we would get along in the world without dessert! What kind of sweet fixes your tooth? the cookie? (the Life of Jennifer Dawn)    lemon raspberry bars ? (Brandy's Baking) chocolate lava cake?  (Home Savvy A to Z

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-24125139487446290342011-08-08T14:16:00.000-07:002011-08-08T14:16:51.194-07:00

The family is on vacation and when you are on vacation you need to indulge. Our first indulgement was this, grilled bananas with a cream sauce topped with blueberries, raspberries and strawberries. It went down smoothly. Can't wait to show you what we will indulge in next. I love vacation! We found the recipe @ thefoodnetwork!

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-37208985418593226182011-08-02T11:24:00.000-07:002011-08-02T11:26:05.542-07:00

My old sink was a Real doozie... and my new sink is a REAL doozie! This was sinks first day in it's new "setting". Unfortunately it has never looked like that again. It looks more like...  this, ALL THE TIME. Instead of doing the dishes today I wrote out a friends vows in calligraphy. This is what I'd rather be doing, creating something pretty. What have you been up to lately? Here are a

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-45921510521854156842011-08-01T12:26:00.000-07:002011-08-06T07:26:48.424-07:00

I could not resist taking a picture of our meal last night. I have been a connoisseur of polenta since I was a little kid.  With a Northern Italian grandma it's impossible not to have polenta as a staple in your diet.   This is grilled polenta with sausage, topped with a fresh tomato basil salsa. I bought Colavita' polenta and went to their website for the Fresh Tomato Basil Salsa. They had a lot

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-65116555770508134762011-07-29T08:18:00.000-07:002011-07-31T08:36:37.432-07:00

Our 4TH power outage this month! I was NOT going to open the refrigerator, since the power has been out all night. I am so glad I made a little granola treat last night- This morning it was either chocolate granola or a piece of fruit. Guess which one went in our mouths as breakfast? I know what it looks like but it doesn't take like that. All you need is a box of your favorite  granola and

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-57279336394107048012011-07-26T08:55:00.000-07:002011-07-26T08:55:25.320-07:00

                                                        The laundry is not done, the toys are not picked up, the dishes are dirty and the beds are not made. Why? because I am on a stay-cation. I am staying still til the power comes back on and I don't have to sweat my tushy off to due "my wifely duties" as my husband likes to call them. Power outage #3. The weather man was predicting rain last

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-26877322598168949782011-07-24T08:09:00.000-07:002011-07-27T20:59:46.663-07:00

It's July so off on a new breakfast adventure. I love Chicago, where there are so many places to indulge in breakfast. I brought my son with and I meet my friend Mindy at Milk and Honey. Another Wicker Park delight. Wicker Park is a trendy area where you can find a lot of artists living and unique food! The place was quite busy for a friday morning. Maybe it has something to do with their

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-58565807339198112902011-07-21T08:23:00.000-07:002011-07-20T17:46:24.858-07:00

Have you seen my bottle cap collection? It's really starting to blossom. 2 browns, 2 oranges, and lots of whites, well all right!

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-30968975646396139572011-07-20T07:44:00.000-07:002011-07-24T08:24:25.127-07:00

A freshly baked loaf of french bread, with Boars Head smoked turkey, honey maple ham, honey Dijon, swiss cheese and boston lettuce. The sandwich was delicious. Someone watched diligently hoping that the end of the loaf of french bread would fall on the floor. Lucky for him, it did. What I ate WednesdayWUWhereWhat's Cooking WednesdayFull Plate Thursday I'm partying over here

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-42221783020242472752011-07-19T10:21:00.000-07:002011-07-18T14:51:28.974-07:00

                                                            We are in the pool this week... It's not as glamorous as it looks, but is in the high 90's and the humidity is killing us!Next on our list of activities is napping.What are you up to?       I made this coconut milk delight (minus the almonds) from Whole. New. Mom. Yum! If I had long hair, I want it to look like Cadence's from

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-10247281613412162002011-07-16T07:01:00.001-07:002011-07-16T07:01:35.367-07:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Zenni Optical for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.   #1 is almost two and  it is monkey see monkey do. Sometime this is a good thing specially when it comes to cleaning up his toys and sometimes it is a bad thing. Like when it comes to trying to wear your glasses.      The little one

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-6332170932115215602011-07-15T07:50:00.000-07:002011-07-15T07:50:46.950-07:00

We had this for dinner the other night. It's my husband's famous broccoli and pasta. Recipe coming soon!

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-62966929719271436372011-07-13T06:58:00.000-07:002011-07-16T21:05:43.280-07:00

This is an easy recipe. In a bowl lightly cover the asparagus with olive oil then salt and pepper. Throw them directly on the grill and grill them for 2 minutes on each side. Serve them, if I have a lemon on hand I will squeeze it over the top of the asparagus for a little citrus kick! Told you it was easy! What's Cooking Wednesday Tater Tots and Jello Remodelaholics Strut Your Stuff Saturday

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-70533053636551454762011-07-12T12:21:00.000-07:002011-07-12T12:21:56.717-07:00

                                                            Another storm HIT yesterday morning and we lost power again but lucky us, ComEd restored our power about a half hour ago!  Currently 400,000 people in the Chicagoland area are without electricity.  The minute mine came back on I went right to work on Workshop Wednesday! During the hot, humid, quiet night I wrote a little poem by

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-37680003603968731792011-07-11T07:51:00.000-07:002011-07-26T09:25:56.653-07:00

                   I try to plan out every meal before I go to the grocery so I not only make one trip but I only buy what I need. I like avoiding the scenario of being at the grocery store debating whether or not I have sour creme for our taco meal. Also, I can look at the store sales and make meals with sale items.  It helps me to make a variety of meals and meals that are not high in calories

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-25870510160550372352011-07-10T19:39:00.000-07:002011-07-10T19:40:39.759-07:00

We have a garbage epidemic. Many of us take our garbage for granite, I know I do. We just put it out on the curb and the garbage man takes it away. But where does it go? To the garbage dump in the sky? I really don't know. We do have a recycling program in or neighborhood and they recycle everything but #7. And where does this go? This is something worth looking into. AS for me my garbage has a

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-58851503502514648832011-07-05T13:39:00.000-07:002011-07-05T13:43:51.301-07:00

 Well I put a table in MY MOMCAVE for ME. Apparently my son thought his belonged in their too, along with numerous toys. I am currently looking for a rug and a wicker love seat, wait a minute, is that a leaf blower on the floor? HOW?? So much for my MomCave. Thank you to everyone that linked up. Here is some happy summery projects that people posted! Everyday Life shared here bag tutorial

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-85911486400330932422011-07-05T09:01:00.000-07:002011-07-07T08:42:42.432-07:00

I hope everyone had a great fourth of July! We went to my husband's extended family get together. They have a few strong fourth of July traditions. We start with a smorgasbord of appetizers. The kids swim, we eat the traditional fourth of July favorites on the grill- hamburgers, hot dogs, bratwurst, chicken and then the games begin! My favorite is to watch the cherry pit spitting contest. The

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-36443710243190267122011-06-29T21:07:00.000-07:002011-06-30T11:06:31.932-07:00

Goes to:                                           John Wayne. I wish he would save me from the bad guy, lasso me, throw me on the back of his horse, and we would ride off into the sunset together. OMG I have been watching way to many westerns lately. After watching the remake of True Grit I wanted to watch the original starring John Wayne and his Oscar winning performance. And then I was

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-17206268458034662882011-06-28T00:01:00.000-07:002011-06-28T00:01:01.087-07:00

I am still obsessed with REALITY television. Beside All the Real Housewives, I watch Top Chef, So you think You Can Dance, and the Voice. Seriously those singers on the Voice are amazing- I have no idea why I never watched American Idol- I have been missing out! Any-who I was sorry to see the guy tap dancer go on So You Think You Can Dance, I might have a thing for tall skinning guys that act a

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-8438366517464917342011-06-27T19:53:00.000-07:002011-06-28T19:45:17.044-07:00

HELP CARMEN! I can't find the front of my house. Summer came and I lost it! I called up the ACME Detective Agency and that red hot lady is on the case! THE INVESTIGATION: locating the front of my house. I saw her pull out a magnifying glass, she got the neighbors testimonies, and she took a report. The CONCLUSION: there are three obstructions that cover the right, left, and center of the house.

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-7834550022694519442011-06-23T07:58:00.000-07:002011-06-28T13:03:01.221-07:00

          WOW it got a little scary around here on Tuesday night. My husband was taking the garbage cans to the end of the driveway (garbage pick up was the next day) and he said the sky was a greenish-yellow and that it was extremely windy.  He was talking about how strong the wind was because all the neighbors garbage cans were knocked down. Two seconds after he said that the TV screen flipped

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-15339931179412121662011-06-21T22:02:00.001-07:002011-06-22T11:10:59.908-07:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Walgreens for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine. I have a lot of this in my backyard, foliage. Beautiful, glorious, heavily pollinated foliage! How can a girl, her husband and child enjoy the outdoors when all of us suffer from seasonal allergies? Yep, we have this conveniently located four blocks away. I buy a lot of this from

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-87886955466545401812011-06-21T20:13:00.000-07:002011-06-21T20:16:52.998-07:00

I love reality television. It started years ago when Bravo aired the Real Housewives of Orange County and I was instantly HOOKED. My obsession has spiraled out of CONTROL. I have watched all the Real Housewives, Atlanta- love you Nene, New York City- Kelly you annoy me, New Jersey- oh mama Manzo, Orange County- live it up Tamra,  Beverly Hills- Lisa darling, and Miami. Miami was my least

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-29126998651310888332011-06-20T12:59:00.000-07:002011-06-24T13:15:14.509-07:00

This weeks breakfast adventure was to It's a touch of old world Italy in the heart of Chicago. This was Mandy's choice- nice choice Mandy!  Nothings says morning like a cup of coffee! It was just us art girls, once a long time ago we all taught art together- although are careers have taken us in different directions we still like to get together and reminisce about, well the crazy students

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-57609569434759311702011-06-16T21:10:00.000-07:002011-06-19T08:53:45.589-07:00

One of my favorite things to do in the summer time is to Garage Sale. Remember my WEEKEND of GARAGE SALE-IN'? Well.. here is what I found This cute little five dollar blue table. From the minute I brought it home Emma and Kate have been enjoying it.  Actually, I didn't name the boys girls names... those are the previous owners names on the back of the chairs. I hope a little nail polish

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-62803023552092836252011-06-14T19:59:00.000-07:002011-06-15T07:14:26.582-07:00

This weeks Workshop Wednesday is dedicated to all the hardworking, supportive, caring fathers in the world that would go to the ends of the earth for their family. Recently my dad called me to let me know that the Condors are no longer on the endangered species list. I wrote a paper about it, in second grade when I was seven. I am now thirty-four. He remembers a paper I wrote twenty seven

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-53851482463069457052011-06-14T06:30:00.000-07:002011-06-14T20:32:51.033-07:00

A half eaten apricot danish, don't ask, and Earl grey tea. Blueberries, a peach, yogurt, and rice chexs, again don't ask. Dinner- BBQ chicken, hash browns and a salad. My husband made it. Ask me how we made the grilled hash browns here. What I Ate Wednesday

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-57043143102472149722011-06-13T21:23:00.000-07:002011-06-15T07:28:06.964-07:00

I can not get enough of summer, the grill is out and my husband is making grilled hash browns with BBQ chicken for dinner! Grilled Hash brown Recipe: I bag of has browns- thawed 1 giant onion- I like them sweet try a vidalia 1 stick of butter salt and pepper for flavor and paprika for color Mix the chopped onion, hash browns, salt and pepper. Place the hash browns on tin foil in a pan. Cut

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-23963271357068174952011-06-08T08:20:00.000-07:002011-06-08T08:20:00.057-07:00

I like eggs, we practically eat them every morning for breakfast. They are not just for breakfast anymore. Restaurants are serving them up with a gourmet flare and my husband favorite dessert is Creme' Brulee. They are EASY, they can be served in a multitude of ways. -soufflés -over easy, medium or hard -in french toast -scrambled -in a quiche with vegetables -omelets -egg salad sandwich -hard

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-12340545582445396222011-06-07T11:30:00.000-07:002011-06-09T07:23:04.196-07:00

You can view my Momcave post here. This room has been in the makings {in my head} for months. Here is the before: I found what I was looking for under that linoleum: I choose to just put a clear coat on the pine floor in this room. The sun shines in on the wide planks and shows the variety of color in the grain of the wood. With the floor out of the way I can start shopping for furniture. I

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-72921415365386752362011-06-03T18:01:00.001-07:002011-06-03T18:01:07.036-07:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Mosquito Magnet for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.       Picture this- my husband barbecuing my favorite turkey burger recipe in his sexy BBQ apron. Along with turkey burgers we are having home made fries, salad, and freshly squeezed lemonade on our glorious picnic table. Yes we

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-57854805601189765572011-06-01T12:50:00.000-07:002011-06-01T12:50:06.185-07:00

The other day we had an intruder... Well two to be exact. Once they got into our house they thought it might be cool to invite their friends and family in too. They have been stopping by ever since. I don't think the police understand how much of a nuance they are. So, of course when Jacklyn posted her link to her homemade bug remover, I mixed up her concoction. I have been spraying ever since

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-89585381036745447632011-05-30T07:10:00.000-07:002011-05-30T12:01:43.464-07:00

Our flag is flying today.  Memorial Day was originally known as Decoration Day, the holiday began to honor Union and Confederate soldiers who died during the civil war. It has since become a day of national observance for all Americans who lost their lives serving in a war. Here are seven more facts about Memorial Day http://allproudamericans.com/. thegirkcreative betweennapsontheporch

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-29948844438982773352011-05-24T08:23:00.000-07:002011-05-24T14:22:08.441-07:00

"  My focus this week is on two things, getting organized and picking up ALL the clutter in my house. My spring cleaning has leaped into summer and I am not liking this.  I am highlighting my fabulous party goers who know how to organize and who know how to de-clutter. Project #1 (and it's a biggie) Cleaning The House Evelyn Kate, she maybe on bed rest but things are still organized around

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-62867701466224905252011-05-24T07:01:00.000-07:002011-05-24T08:14:54.080-07:00

I have an empty space that needs a little something. I am always looking for ways to use old picture frames in unique ways, this time I used them the good old fashion way. Remember my picture frame graveyard? This is where I picked out these three frames. Except I did not like the way they looked. I used a little spray paint, sand paper and some stain. Then I bought the rest of the frame

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-11498626152273354752011-05-20T12:22:00.000-07:002011-06-03T12:32:00.319-07:00

Random lucky winner #5 Mindalin is the winner of the Freschetta Giveaway. Now all I need from you is your name, address, email, social security # and any other information you can give me that would make it easy to steal your identity- just kidding.  Shot me an email when you get this, Thanks!

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-91403984096324643572011-05-19T20:54:00.000-07:002011-05-20T06:20:31.465-07:00

Tomorrow, Saturday and maybe Sunday is going to be HUGE for me. Apparently there is going to be one HUGE garage sale in the neighborhood. I can not think of any better way I want to spend the next three days. Second to thrift shopping and yes, I know, it's crazy. I know Friday will be spent rummaging through other people's lives, picking up something I need for a bargain, meeting the neighbors-

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-4709805854064921892011-05-17T12:32:00.000-07:002011-05-24T14:21:03.561-07:00

Thanks to everyone for linking to Workshop Wednesday. Lets get the party started with a few innovative and mouth watering projects! Wall art is ART! Check out how Kristy did it here!  My Wonderfully Made better be putting her feet up after all the hard work she put into this little beauty! Do you still have word verification on? Don't know what it is?? No peer pressure but you should

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-66725249692475726482011-05-15T17:38:00.000-07:002011-05-19T14:06:48.325-07:00

I HATE the show, Extreme Couponing. Why, because they have ruined shopping for me. What could I possible be talking about? They show the world how to buy LOTS for NOTHING, right? I watched a few shows, they (the obsessive couponers that devoted their lives to saving a buck) mostly buy JUNK. When it comes to food they buy cookies, candy, sugary cereals, and chips. Maybe this is partly why

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-9132762317925205692011-05-14T15:56:00.000-07:002011-05-16T09:04:50.026-07:00

We went to The BONGO ROOM for May's breakfast visit! It's a plain store front on a busy street. I love the graffiti to the left of the building. The place, on the inside, was really happenin' for a thursday morning- not a single table available. It's located in Bucktown. Their food is all about the buck. So many good choices, what should I order? They serve seasonal french toast and pancake

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-16176534876811802011-05-11T00:51:00.000-07:002011-05-11T07:43:56.641-07:00

"    Yesterday it was so COLD that we had to read books in our winter coats. Today it is sunny and 80 degrees- not that I am complaining! But with warm weather you need to serve cool sweets! Like Lemon Sorbet: find the recipe here The boys sure enjoyed it. They licked their spoons clean! On to Workshop Wednesday Guidelines: Please add a button or hyperlink back to the party on your post

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-78823838816358353282011-05-10T20:02:00.001-07:002011-05-14T16:06:37.938-07:00

This post brought to you by FRESCHETTA®. All opinions are 100% mine. Today's lunch was Freschetta's Classic Bruschetta  Pizza! I bought it at the local grocery store.  I choose this medley and I also bought the Brick Oven Roasted Portabella Mushrooms & Spinach Pizza. After trying their combination of spinach with mushrooms, my palette gave it the thumbs up!. They have eight different varieties

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-69050846167073210742011-05-10T18:20:00.000-07:002011-05-10T18:20:41.359-07:00

I just don't know what is cuter, Fryman Four's boys or the T-shirts? Leave a comment and let me know! Having trouble expressing yourself? Make one of these! Emily from Snails and Puppy Dog Tails will show you how! OOey, Gooey and delicious- just the way I like it! Head over to Everday Art- to learn how to cinnamon your buns! Make sure your children know how proud you are of them! A little

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-8070875850121690002011-05-09T18:21:00.000-07:002011-05-24T20:37:48.951-07:00

I got married 4 years ago and we received an ice cream maker as a shower gift. Today I decided to use it! Here is my first creation, Lemon Sorbet The cute little dish was my grandmothers, I think I put it to good use. What you will need for your lemon sorbet: 1 and 1/2cups of freshly squeezed lemons (about 13 lemons)2 cups of sugaran ice cream maker (this is a good excuse to buy one, mine

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-49809182858684497622011-05-08T16:11:00.000-07:002011-05-08T16:16:56.977-07:00

I cannot believe I am about to post this picture. This is my basement. It is a hot, HOT, HOT mess and this is only one side of it. Just image what is on the other side. I am completely ashamed- NO modified that it has gotten to this point. By the way we moved in a couple of months ago. HOW DOES THIS HAPPEN? I am bond and determined to get this orgamanized- yes you read that word right,

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-26701490387754951252011-05-03T03:33:00.000-07:002011-05-03T03:33:00.863-07:00

Wednesday Workshop #5 is ALIVE! Hmmmm, Short Circuit, does that show my age? I watched that movie when I was a kid and "Johnny five is alive" is the only line I remember from that movie. Sometimes I wish I was a kid again. No worries, happy with the world, rode my bike everywhere... Where did those days go?  I watch my son play and play, he is 18 months old, he uses his imagination, he is

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-37498141109070936752011-05-02T12:40:00.000-07:002011-05-05T15:29:27.412-07:00

Summer is in the air and we are grilling tonight! We are having turkey burgers, zucchini, and home made french fries. Here is why I like turkey: Did you know that turkey is packed with protein? In fact it has about 32g in a 4oz serving, oh say... the size of a turkey burger. How about those daily vitamins? It has the recommended allowance of B3, which by the way,  plays a critical role in the

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-58090047162296809722011-04-30T13:14:00.000-07:002011-05-01T13:15:17.389-07:00

I was so excited to watch the Royal Wedding. I recorded it and it was the first thing I watched friday morning. First of all Kate was absolutely STUNNING! I probably said she's so beautiful to many times while I watched all 4 hours of it. Second, I don't know about you but I just love hats and I think after Kate and Will's wedding we are going to see a revival of them! I can't wait! I found a

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-26866319850166589772011-04-26T17:04:00.000-07:002011-04-27T07:48:27.885-07:00

"    I can't believe a whole month has gone by since I started my Workshop Wednesday Party! I really appreciate everyone who has linked to the party- I like the direction it is heading in (I know you are not suppose to end a sentence with a prepositional phrase- but the rules that have been in my head since grade school need to be broken). ANY-WHO A friend of mine told me she would like to

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-19511479011657574232011-04-25T11:06:00.000-07:002011-04-27T07:41:56.982-07:00

Considering we had Easter this past Sunday I feel like I have had nothing but junk! Easter was wonderful because I ate all that junk... except for our poor sparrow visitor. He flew in the kitchen via the open screen door- stayed to enjoy the green beans and then we shoed him out an open window. Needless to say, I am trying to eat on the lighter side. Scrabble eggs and toast for my little

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-11068464953414188692011-04-22T09:54:00.000-07:002011-04-25T11:19:55.894-07:00

I do my part- I recycle, I use cloth diapers, I walk before I drive and my favorite be nice to Earth thing to do is to create with recycled materials! Oh and I am either looking for or will make a compost for my garden, any suggestion? What do you do for Mother Earth? Last week I started a Cereal project- how many things I came make out of cereal boxes. I like to use recyclable materials and

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-14847225977278100502011-04-19T07:05:00.000-07:002011-04-19T07:39:04.654-07:00

"     This is the view from my bedroom window. Yikes! All this from one little room (the kitchen remodel)?. Well... not exactly.  Half the people on the block asked if they could throw this or that out.  The next thing we know it's full. I'm so glad my husband said no one could put anything in it until sunday night.  That's when he was finished throwing out our stuff and the neighbors lined

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-31501142333541787312011-04-18T22:01:00.000-07:002011-04-20T06:41:39.653-07:00

Since I am NOT a morning person but my son seems to be, I need to keep breakfast simple. Kefir mixed with vanilla yogurt, granola on top and a banana on the side. Easy, quick, painless and nothing I  have to think about. Remember I am NOT a morning person. My son drinks Hemp milk mixed with coconut milk. I had mango tea. Two hours later we needed a snack One for me and one for my son. And

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-81286456332475579832011-04-14T15:33:00.000-07:002011-04-19T19:45:21.151-07:00

I have decided to challenege myself. The challenge is:to see how many projects I can make using cereal boxes or thin cardboard boxes  I guess you can say this is a cereal challenge.  It's Easter and I decied to make Easter egg suncatchers. I love things that hang in the window to emphasis the sun shining through.  I also like using recyclabke materials. I spent nothing on this project.  I used

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-48539945982413556062011-04-12T13:19:00.000-07:002011-04-12T13:21:32.529-07:00

Here are my favorites from last weeks party. Mel from the Crafty Scientist  brought a little Spring to her home with the Lemonhead wreath. Maybe she should include a warning sign with her wreath: Beware people might lick the front door! I know I would definitely steal a lemon or two.  Miz Helen Country Cottage posted Savory and Sweet Buck wheat crepes. It's perfect for the person with a

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-70097876568007227982011-04-11T13:39:00.000-07:002011-04-12T21:23:44.858-07:00

 Part of my Spring operation and Easter preparation is to find a valance for my bathroom window (and clean up the window sill). I was knocking things off my list left and right but this window valance thing has stumped me. Currently I have this pretty pole hanging on the top of the window. I want the valance to be white with a texture.  The accents in the bathroom are white.  My shower

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-5844317924708823562011-04-11T06:03:00.000-07:002011-04-11T14:07:07.892-07:00

Today I can participate in a bowl full of lemons challenge, cleaning ALL the windows in my house. It is part of my to do list for operation Easter. It's nice when the list starts to get smaller rather than bigger. Speaking of BIG, this was a BIG task. When I opened the dusty blinds I saw this... In EVERY window. There are a whopping 31 windows in my house. Damn, I have to do this 31 times.

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-18054601517665236382011-04-10T08:50:00.000-07:002011-04-11T06:41:36.830-07:00

This months Breakfast STOP is ORANGEOrange supports locally grown organic products. They strive to spend most of their food dollar close to home. Their menu changes because they cook what is in season. At home I can make organic meals but going to a restaurant to eat organic is not as easy. Just one more reason why I like ORANGE! This little breakfast delight is in Roscoe Village. There are

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-70964730381150782482011-04-08T15:33:00.001-07:002011-04-08T16:45:21.513-07:00

specially if it's free!  This is part of my saving money series. For those of you that know me, you know that I have spent zero dollars on haircuts in that last five years. How is this possible?  I get my haircut every 6 months or less, and it's not like I am cutting it myself... Let me introduce you to beauty school.  At beauty school students need to learn to cut hair on real models. 

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83158715103842648.post-29789032782247546552011-04-05T21:12:00.000-07:002011-08-30T13:13:20.251-07:00

    I have a MILLION projects around the house that I need to get done.  The first big project was our kitchen.  It is 99.9 percent finished- I just need to grout the subway tile... All that little stuff always seem to go unfinished for awhile, why? I need to do something about it. It's also a shame that I have this brand new kitchen and do I cook in it? Nope Do I eat in it? You BETCHAand I

Karen @ It's the Suburbs or Bust- Yo!http://www.blogger.com/profile/13197864165075258378noreply@blogger.com7