It's Halloween Time

The girls and I went to the grocery last night but instead ended up searching for Halloween décor instead…

We first landed at The Dollar Store.  Last year they had candles and I’m hoping another one of their stores does this year too because I need a few more.  We had to go to Staples for another print enlargement I had done and The Dollar Store was right next door.  There we grabbed quite a few things for our Halloween House and I let Ells grab some fun things too.  She really gets into it.

Then we moved over to At Home – another go to for Halloween décor.  Seriously… they usually have a ton of stuff, but apparently you must go early to get the goods!  I’m still contemplating purchasing a few skeletons for the yard... But I did find one that we couldn’t leave without!  This girl!

Yes, we still made it to the grocery, but it did not take precedent…

We did take a few photo ops before we headed to the food aisle where I’m really not sure what meals we purchased, but we attempted…

And honestly, who needs food when you end up with photos like this!

All it all it was a good night!  And we might have a 2nd Halloween lover on our hands!  

The Refinery

I'm not sure how many followers I have that are Indy locals, but if you are, you MUST check out The Refinery.  Seriously.  Maybe run. 

I have been meaning to go for a while now, but haven't had the chance so when The City Moms hosted a Mom's Shopping Night there, I was in.  I even forgot about it and told Mr K I needed to run out but would be back in 1.5 hrs.  He fell for it.

It's an upscale resale shop where you can find designer and upscale brands.  My favorite recent finds were Free People and Toms.

The shop is so nice because it's not cluttered and it's open... you feel free to move around and it's just comfortable.  And they have the clothes sorted into different categories like Favorites, Date Night, and LBD. 






They even have this adorable little lounge area where you can just sit back and relax. 





I really can't wait to go back...
I left with a Free People Sweater for $16 and a brand new pair of Toms wedges for $30.  I felt really good about those buys! 


xoxo,
Abby

Holiday Gift Guide :: Hostess, Teachers, Sitters

These gift guides are kind of fun!  It feels like shopping but not really... It's GENIUS!

So far, I've done one for Toddler Girls and Men.  Today's is for those special people in your life who are doing you a favor day in and day out or just once in a while -- Hostesses, Teachers, Babysitters or even small gifts for girlfriends!  I hope you like... because I know I'd love ALL of these gifts!

These picks come from all over the place!
Artsy Modern, Anthropologie, For The Love of Letters, Target, Lara Casey, and C Wonder.
See, told ya... all over.  And I think they all have a great gift element about them!

Anthropologie has been at the top of my list for looking for gifts.  They just always seem to have different and unique options.  I don't like typical monogrammed pieces, but letters are different.  These letters are very cool with the wood tone as well as color.  I think they are very cool and given in the letter of someone's last name would be a perfect gift!  And if you are looking for just a little something this wishbone ornament is the best!  Adorable!

I came across Artsy Modern a long while back but then again this past week while entering giveaways through 24 Merry Days!  Thank goodness too because I'm seriously crushing on them!  These cocktail glasses are seriously the cutest and would make the perfect gift for anyone!  Blah Blah Blah!  I love it!  And this adorable tote is not only complimentary on a daily basis, but it's just right for groceries or books! 

These lovelies are just some fun ones.  Obviously I have a thing with scripts and lettering these days since 4 of these picks include it!  This note card to the left from the Lara Casey Shop is motivational and would be super cute framed on a desk or in an office. Same with the mason jar magnets from For The Love of Letters.  At $12.50 they are a great choice!  And if you purchase by tomorrow you should have in time for Christmas!  The poppers from C Wonder are just a fun little accent to any gift.  

And Target is seriously one of my favorite places to shop during the holidays.  They usually carry different brands and an eclectic mix of things to choose from.  Here are two picks that they have most of the time.  A faux fur throw is so classic and perfect for any home during the winter.  It's just so cozy and available in different colors!  And these gold scissors are on my own list because I feel like I'm the only person on Instagram who doesn't have them.  They are a nice gift for the crafty person or someone who likes gold!    

So who do you have to buy for this holiday season and what are you looking at?! 

Do you like any of these?!

My #StitchFix

I've been seeing a lot friends and colleagues posting on their blogs and facebook about their StitchFix boxes that they've been receiving.  They all seemed to have pretty cute clothes in them... I must confess I immediately signed up for an account with the site, but I couldn't get myself to just actually order a box.  I think it was the fear of commitment thing I have.  I was afraid that I'd get the box and like nothing or I'd get the box and like everything or just trying on clothes period... whether it be at my house or in the store. 



But I finally did it...
My box came on Friday right before we were leaving for home. 

It comes so nicely packaged and it kind of makes you feel special that someone picked out these clothes especially for you.  You receive five pieces per box.  The first thing I found was an envelope with a couple of things folded up in it.  One was a price list for the pieces and the other was a set of "ways to wear" cards for each piece and a little note from my StitchFix stylist. 

So...  now for the fun part. 
I had put $50-100 for all pieces... I figured that's what most stores are priced with exception of a few so I thought that would be a good place to start.  I was pleasantly surprised by the picks.

The Jeans were a big surprise.  They are premium denim and only $78.  Just Black.  I think they look pretty good for that price point.  I hate shopping for jeans so to throw a pair in a box for me and have them actually fit is a feat in itself.  There was no crying involved.  I think when I shed a few extra lbs they'll be quite nice!




The red & black checked top is Sanctuary and it's super cute.  I can see it with jeans, leggings, booties, or even tights if I'm feeling a little daring.  It's adorable and I think it looked ok.

This navy striped top with embellishments on the shoulders was a surprise.  I do like it.  It's the softest material.  But I'm not a material girl and don't think I'll ever wear this puppy.  It's actually not awful and does look ok on... but seriously, I'm just not into this embellished shoulder pads on the outside look.  I know it's in and trendy, but if that's the case then I'm out and not trendy.  Wink.

The black top did not fit around my hips so it was out immediately, plus I have probably at least 3 similar black tops at home.  It did have really cute detail on the sleeve as it was almost a scallop cut and was adorable, but that wasn't enough to justify another black top.  No picture on.



And then there was this Daniel Rainn top that I liked when I first pulled out, hated the 2nd time, and felt like it was maternity when I actually tried it on.  Fail.  No picture for you on this one.  haha.




Overall the experience was pretty good.  I think 3 out of 5 is a good go at it!  I was expecting to hate it all.  I know that Sanctuary top had me at hello with it's faux leather on the trim and collar. I die.  Everyone makes fun of me that I like that faux leather trim and some of the tops out there but it's a weakness... and I never buy any of it because I talk myself out of it, but when it looked me straight in the eye, I said "Abby, this ones for you!"



So...
I think I'll keep the jeans and sanctuary top. 
The rest will go back with the return envelope using the included free shipping. 



And I think I'll give it a try again... It's fun.  I love getting mail, especially packages, and it was shopping with no tears involved.

Have you tried #Stichfix?  

Xoxo, 

Mondays with Martha - Celebrations

Well here we go again... getting back on track...
I love doing Monday's with Martha posts whether they are big or small. 

Recently I was looking for a prop for Ella & we ran into JCP and to my surprise (well not really) I fell in love with yet another line they are carrying!  CELEBRATIONS by Martha Stewart is just another amazing addition to the lineup at JCP. 

Whether you are looking for just cute little cups and plates, or party decor, or even cute candies for vase fillers, you will find it here!  I am in love.  It's too perfect and it's so much better than anything you'll get at a generic party place!

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They really do have great packaging, ideas, sets (if you don't like to get creative), and prices! 

Not to mention the fact that I can just run down the street to my local store to grab them!  I haven't checked, but I bet you can even place your order online for in-store pickup!  Winning!

I can't wait to throw another party!  Soon I tell you!  Soon! 

Shop for a Cause -- Autism Awareness

The latest statistics released by the CDC suggest 1 in every 88 American children are diagnosed with autism. In boys, that rate goes to 1 in 54. A child is diagnosed with autism every 15 minutes.

Those numbers just shock me!  It is kind of unbelievable.  While I only know one person through my mother with a child with autism, this is something that is always on my mind.  There are so many children affected that it was something we always thought about while carrying Ella.  Now, as a Stella & Dot Stylist, I feel I can help.  We can all aid in research for this disease during the month of April which is Autism Awareness Month.

In April, Stella & Dot is donating 20% of all proceeds from the sales of the five jewelry pieces shown below to the HollyRod Foundation -- a resource for families who face challenges in coping with autism disorder and Parkinson's disease.  The HollyRod Foundation was founded by Actress Holly Robinson Peete and her husband, former NFL quarterback Rodney Peete.  Please visit their website to read more >>> http://bit.ly/10c1A05

So now it's your chance to Support Autism Awareness -- Shop for a Cause! 
Remember, 20% of all proceeds from the sales of these featured items will benefit the HollyRod Foundation.
Shop to show support using this link -- http://bit.ly/YVAnwm
Starts April 1st -- Taking Pre-orders now as the Spirit Bracelet will likely sell out early!  If you'd like one, let me know!  :)  Contact me via this link!



A little bit about the collection...

*Spirit Bracelet -- $29 -- adjustable & features multi-colored beads to represent the colors of the autism ribbon & puzzle piece.


*Tree of Life Necklace -- $69 -- Sterling silver tree medallion & chain is a gentile reminder to "stay firmly planted but always reach for the sky."
*Purple Pippa Necklace -- $69 -- long gold chain featuring geometric purple & brown epoxy stones

*La Folie Necklace -- $49 -- featuring hand wired amethyst & semi-precious smoky quartz stones

*Bring It Multi-Stripe Jewelry Roll -- $22 -- bring your jewelry with you on-the-go with this chic travel accessory

Amazing pieces -- Amazing Prices --  Amazing Cause

 

I'd love to hear from any followers who may be impacted by this disorder whether it be family or friends... Please feel free to share comments below.

Shop here now to support Autism

I'm also looking to partner with a local organization as well as any mothers who have children with autism who would like to host a trunk show for the cause.  Message me and we can chat details.  It could be an online show too so don't feel like you have to be in Indianapolis to make this happen. 

abigail{dot}hake@gmail{dot}com

Or Message me through my Stella & Dot Website:

http://bit.ly/YSVGBl

Thanks for all your support as usual! 

Muah!

xoxo,

The Holidays are Here... Kinda

 Aren't you ready to start shopping for the holidays?!  I know I'm getting there... I walked into Walmart to grab some mums yesterday and was smacked in the face by the faux Christmas trees that were just hanging out... Wow!  It's  not even Halloween yet, but who cares! 

Who doesn't love buying gifts?!?  I know I do!  I love to share things I love with others and also to just share with others in general!  It's so much fun.

So... here we go!  Here's a few peeks at the holiday collection!  You can see it all at www.stelladot.com/abbyk as you already know. 

Loving our new gift boxes too!  Perfect for the holidays and the lazy wrapper like me!  ;)

I'm in love with that fox ring and the Admiral Bracelet!  Maybe a little pricey, but that's why you should host a party b/c then you can get it for free or half price!  I've helped so many people at work get free jewels that will last them a lifetime!  They all love their Stella pieces!

And this season, we've turned the corner and become a full out accessory company... with scarves, wallets, cases, and jewelry of course!  Our scarves are the finest quality and so fashionable.  Everyone is seriously loving them!  Seriously!  You will too!



The Suzanne cocktail ring is gorgeous!  It's so dainty and just the right amount of emerald color.  This one is sure to stay with you for a long time!  And the dainty Demi, Laural, or Swallow earrings are the perfect gifts all for under $25! 

And don't forget about Breast Cancer Awareness Month!  You can shop the Hope Bracelet or Luna Bracelet in Rose Gold and the net proceeds from those sales will go to the Noreen Fraser Foundation for cancer research.  Beautiful picks!  Seriously!  And that's a special for October!




And our latest designer collaboration is with the amazing Alice Temperley who has done Alice by Temperley exclusively for Stella & Dot!  Her designs are gorgeous and everyone is loving these too!  Don't wait long because we know they will sell out!  They are sure hits! 

See the Queen of Hearts Necklace below that is one of my favorites and from her collection! 

So much to share this month!  Amazing new pieces to share with your friends!

I have openings always for catalog or online shows AND I also have openings for In Home Trunk Shows if you think you might be intersted!  Email me or call me!  You can find all my information at www.stelladot.com/abbyk

And don't forget too...

If you use this link to shop, you can save 50% on the below items when you spend $50!  Don't miss out!

Happy Shopping! 

And it's good to be back!  I already have a ton of drafts in the making to get my blog back on track! 

Noblesville Finds!

As promised (although a day late) I'm sharing our finds from our antique trip the other day!  We were looking for a bench, but I ended up spending money on other things. 

I'd been thinking about making a "E" to hang somewhere in Ella's room.  I was going to maybe try yarn art or decorate one of those card board letters but then I spotted this vintage plastic "E" sitting and waiting for me. 

It's a little scratched up, but I was thinking about maybe taking a magic eraser to it to clean it up.  I'm not sure yet... might just leave it as is for the character aspect!

Then, I found something that I purchased to take the place of something until I can find it.  For some really wierd reason I've always wanted the Coca-Cola Ice Skating Tray/Tin thing...

But when I came across this tin below, I figured I could wait a bit longer and find one in good condition! 

Plus, this one incorporates Mr. K as well.  He thought it was super cool!  AND it goes better with the decorin our house.  My downstairs is working on being blues, tans, and grays.  Now I just need to find a place to put it!

Happy Friday! 
Hoping for nicer weather than today this weekend!  Rain, Rain, go away!

Antiquing with Ella

Yesterday I decided to go out on the town...

During the day...

Antiquing...

Yea, my nights out of the town are over but I love looking at old things so I'm ok with that!

I got Ella dressed and fed and plopped her in her car seat so we could head on out and see what we could find.  Look how stinkin' cute she is! 

We were on the mission to find a bench for our pantry.  But while we were out, we found some other things that are so great, I would take them all if I could. 

Starting with some finds for a nursery...

This first rocker is the one I wanted to buy for Ella's nursery.  But, my mom found one just as cute at a festival and purchased it before I purchased this one... Maybe when I have room for a playroom?  Or need another?  It's a super cute rocker that would look amazing in white or gray with a new cushion set. 

Love this little print in a cute scalloped frame.  It's totally adorable for a sweet and girly nursery.

This rocking horse also acts as a bookcase!  haha.  Not sure if it's supposed to, but it does and I love that about it.  I do think it needs a little funkiness added to it - maybe replace the yarn with white and paint the horse hot pink?!?  Hmmm... I might be onto something!

Now for some benches - the real reason we went out.

I found this sweet settee in the basement of one of my favorite stores.  I love it.  I think it's the perfect size for an entryway or nook.  I don't think I'd keep it as is... If I used it in my pantry, I'd paint it black or white and add a striped or chevron seat cushion.  Can you see it?!   

Then I saw this one at another antique store.  I think I'm in love!  However, it's not super practical for a usable piece.  It was a little wobbly and unstable, but the look was super unique.  If I had a place to put this, it would have been home with me in no time but I don't have a place where it wouldn't be sat in very much.

And finally this windsor bench.  This I could see in a funky color like plum or teal for the top of my stairs, but it's a little big for that space.  I seriously need a bigger, more unique home! 

And some random WANTS!

This card catalog.  I want it. No, I need it.  Again, I don't really have a space for it at the moment, but I could find one if this showed up on my doorstep!  Seriously, this needs to come home with me someday.  This particular one wasn't for sale, but they pop up every now and then in these stores... Don't worry, I keep my eye out!

I have always wanted a drop leaf table. This one is really nice.  The condition was great!  It was over $200 so it was definitely out of my price range, but this type of piece remains on my NEED list. 

I thought this art was kind of cool.  If you had a blank wall it might look just perfect there.  It's made from pieces of wood and get this, was only marked for $50.  That took way more time than $50!  I was tempted to buy it, but again... no real place for it.  What do you think?  Love it or leave it?

I've seen these before - and see those pink tags?  They were marked 50% off.  It's a King and Queen carved into these old pieces of wood.  Still at $20 each, I resisted.  If I only had more walls for all this weird art I like. 

And this caught my eye... I thought it was a doll house and I wanted to buy it for Ella.  But then, I realized I was a goober and it was a bird house. 

And then I found a few things that I want to try and not buy!  But seriously, these are things I could make!  I think...

This stencilled burlap runner!  Love.  I probably wouldn't do the rooster, but maybe a flower of some sort or pattern just on the ends.  This should be a fairly easy project.  Maybe I'll enlist the help of my mother since she did the burlap for under the centerpieces at the wedding.

How super easy is this one?!?!  These are just letters cut out in felt.  I can't believe how easy and cheap!  And I don't have ANY Easter decor. 

And this would be very cool for a music room or just an accent piece to a  loft.  It's definitely a conversation piece.  I've seen these little records at goodwill for $1 a piece.  I actually think my mom picked up a few and here's an idea she could do!

So that's what we saw while we were out.  We didn't find anything we were looking for, but we did find some things!  I'll share those tomorrow!  I think they were good finds!  Ok, now off to take a walk!