Friday (Springtime) Fashion

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Happy Friday, friends! And thanks so much for your sweet comments on my new blog design! I am living it up today at a blogger conference, which conveniently, is hosted in Dallas! And I do mean living it up...we booked a standard room, but somehow got upgraded to the freaking penthouse!? <i><a href="http://goo.gl/uNsyIE" target="_blank">(See, it pays to join travel clubs, etc.</a>)</i> There may be 72 of us staying in the room, but whatever. #ikid<br /><br />I'm hoping to pick up some good tips, but mostly, I'm just thrilled to finally be meeting so many of my 'virtual' friends, and getting to know them in real life! I've said it a thousand times, but gaining new, meaningful friendships has been the biggest surprise, and blessing, to come out of blogging. Hopefully some day, all our paths will cross! <i>(Follow me on InstaGram @cassiesugarplum for pics of the fun weekend.) </i><br /><br /><a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2014/01/bloggers-top-organizing-tips-that-time.html" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"></a>As excited as I was for the weekend, a fair amount of stress goes into figuring out what you're going to wear! <i>(Is everyone else a last-minute packer, like me?!)</i> I mostly packed from my closet, but for inspiration, I spent some time online scoping out new Spring items first. Here's a pretty, yet preppy, outfit that I love, and could easily duplicate with similar items I already own. I also packed <a href="http://bit.ly/1jOh31A" target="_blank">this dress</a> in white that you guys seemed to really like when <a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2014/04/friday-fashion.html" target="_blank">I showed you last week.</a> <i>(p.s. I returned the floral number since I wasn't interested in showing off my lady bits.)</i><br /><br /><div style="margin: 0 auto; width: 550px;"><div style="position: relative;"><img alt="preppy spring" border="0" height="508" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/l1nlvv4Pd2IT572obfH2bA/cid/119950399/id/JCAit5fJ4xGoRV7QZFZllw/size/c550x508.jpg" title="preppy spring" width="550" /></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><a href="http://bit.ly/1h7wbHf" target="_blank">Striped Skirt</a> | <a href="http://bit.ly/1rgdNNG" target="_blank">Split Neck Top</a> | <a href="http://bit.ly/PofVXb" target="_blank">Clutch</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://bit.ly/1mwXLkP" target="_blank">Sandals</a> | <a href="http://bit.ly/1i3OnlP" target="_blank">Watch</a> | <a href="http://bit.ly/1nDfyEm" target="_blank">Statement Necklace</a></div><br /><br />I know most of <a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/search/label/Fashion%20Friday" target="_blank">my moodboards</a> are similar in style, and feature repeat items...but that's because that's how I dress. I thought I'd share the style I lean towards for the rest of the family today, too. When Mr. SP wears versions of this outfit, I get all flushed. Especially when he rolls the sleeves so I can see his forearms. And don't get me started about my man in aviators. #fiiiiiine<br /><br /><div style="margin: 0 auto; width: 550px;"><div style="position: relative;"><img alt="preppy summer guy" border="0" height="450" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/XPJNifqtJbwdtVJMdceoBg/cid/119949052/id/WhWFspXJ4xG9229ylJXARQ/size/c550x450.jpg" title="preppy summer guy" width="550" /></div></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2014/01/bloggers-top-organizing-tips-that-time.html" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"></a><a href="http://bit.ly/1eWGZsX" target="_blank">Gingham Shirt</a> <i>(25% off)</i> | <a href="http://bit.ly/1h7r1uR" target="_blank">Cargo Shorts</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://bit.ly/1mwZSVT" target="_blank">Aviators</a> <i>(on sale)</i> | <a href="http://bit.ly/1eWHeUF" target="_blank">Silicone Strap Watch</a></div><br /><br />My son favors athletic shorts and tees, with Nikes or Vans, but on the few occasions I get a say, I like to preppy him up a bit. Oh how I miss the days when he'd wear whatever I put out. #sigh<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | Spring Kid Fashion" height="628" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5052/13974611024_b98e15e46f_z.jpg" width="550" /> </div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://bit.ly/1gPvbUt" target="_blank">Gingham Shirt</a> | <a href="http://bit.ly/1k4tQwU" target="_blank">Rugby</a> | <a href="http://bit.ly/1i6QjtZ" target="_blank">Tee</a> | <a href="http://bit.ly/1jGhqtx" target="_blank">Converse</a></div><br /><br />And Babygirl is the same...she'll wear skirts or dresses, with leggings, but always with tennis shoes. In fact, it's usually purple and leopard high tops! I'm hoping to wrangle her in some of these adorable, but comfy, things this Spring. She's already agreed to <a href="http://bit.ly/1jlydo6" target="_blank">these crazy cute Target sandals.</a><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="Hi Sugarplum | Spring Kid Fashion" height="756" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5535/13970978302_63bfa76acc_b.jpg" width="550" /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://bit.ly/1rktW4I" target="_blank">Striped Dress</a> | <a href="http://bit.ly/1icWMo2" target="_blank">Tunic</a> | <a href="http://bit.ly/1i6Q55Z" target="_blank">Floral Top</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://bit.ly/1rkuasJ" target="_blank">Tank Dress</a> | <a href="http://bit.ly/1jGiVaX" target="_blank">Bird Tee</a> | <a href="http://bit.ly/1k4ubzD" target="_blank">Stripe Dress</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://hisugarplum.blogspot.com/2014/01/bloggers-top-organizing-tips-that-time.html" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"></a><a href="http://bit.ly/1rku18r" target="_blank">Bird Dress</a> | <a href="http://bit.ly/1nmUdlc" target="_blank">Pink Toms</a> | <a href="http://bit.ly/1icXqly" target="_blank">Strawberry Tee</a> | <a href="http://bit.ly/1rkuhUY" target="_blank">Ruffle Dress</a></div><br /><br />But at the end of the day, I just want them to wear what's comfortable, and they'll feel good in...because that's the cutest style there is. Have you busted out the Spring wear for you and the family? Happy weekend, lovebugs!<br /><br /><br /><div style="background: white; height: 120px; margin: 0px auto; width: 490px;"><iframe frameborder="0" height="120px" scrolling="no" src="http://currentlyobsessed.me/api/v1/get_widget?wid=29&blog=Hi%2BSugarplum&product_ids=n_7051267,n_8430332,n_8464384,n_8464400,n_8430080,n_8430120,n_8430232,n_8430248,n_8429952,n_8464456,n_8464476,n_8464504,n_8464512,n_8464544,n_8464568,n_8464580,n_8464604,n_8464616,n_8464684&rows=1&cols=4&brand=0&price=0&hover=0" width="490px"></iframe></div><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>This post was sponsored by Nordstrom, but the selections and opinions are all mine. Like always. Thank you for supporting Hi Sugarplum sponsors, and essentially, my project fund!</i></span>

Friday (Springtime) Fashion

Happy Friday, friends! And thanks so much for your sweet comments on my new blog design! I am living it up today at a blogger conference, wh...

Read more »

Lunch Box Lunches

<div style="text-align: left;">In the school cafeteria, there are <a href="http://r.linqia.cc/2e45821" target="_blank">bringers and buyers</a>...those that bring their lunch from home, and those that buy. My kids have always been buyers. At the beginning of every year, I offer to pack their lunches, and every year they'd declare the school food 'amazing,' and insist on buying a hot lunch there. <br /><br />And truthfully, I didn't fight it...since packing a lunch was one less thing I had to worry about. But apparently there's been a change in the school lunch menu, because a few months ago they both begged me to start packing their lunch.<br /><br />Transitioning them from buyers to bringers was a bigger challenge than I anticipated... remembering to pack it each night, buying more at the grocery, and coming up with meals that didn't need to be heated. Oh yeah, and that they'd like. One helpful tip has been incorporating dinner leftovers into the next day's lunch. Putting aside the stand-by PB&J and turkey sandwiches, here are a few other combinations that are hits with my kids.</div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://r.linqia.cc/2e45821" target="_blank" title="Hi Sugarplum | Lunch Box Lunches by hi sugarplum!, on Flickr"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | Lunch Box Lunches" height="517" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3816/13881165294_fc5be11979_o.jpg" width="550" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Chicken Salad on Whole Wheat Pita | made with grapes, celery & leftover chicken</div><div style="text-align: center;">Banana</div><div style="text-align: center;">Pretzel Crisps</div><div style="text-align: center;">Sugar-free Pudding</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://r.linqia.cc/2e45821" target="_blank">Fruit Shoot drink</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://r.linqia.cc/2e45821" target="_blank" title="Hi Sugarplum | Lunch Box Lunches by hi sugarplum!, on Flickr"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | Lunch Box Lunches" height="534" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2912/13881165874_f46142d1e6_o.jpg" width="550" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Salad with Carrots, Tomatoes & Avacado | Chopped (leftover) Chicken Breast | Ranch Dressing</div><div style="text-align: center;">Pita Chips | Hummus Cup</div><div style="text-align: center;">Chocolate Bar</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://r.linqia.cc/2e45821" target="_blank">Fruit Shoot drink</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://r.linqia.cc/2e45821" target="_blank" title="Hi Sugarplum | Lunch Box Lunches by hi sugarplum!, on Flickr"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | Lunch Box Lunches" height="610" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2876/13881163954_6e611e51c8_z.jpg" width="550" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Soft-Boiled Eggs (I make a big batch on the weekend for breakfasts & lunches)</div><div style="text-align: center;">String Cheese</div><div style="text-align: center;">Grapes</div><div style="text-align: center;">Snack-size Apple</div><div style="text-align: center;">Pretzel Twists | Nutella for Dipping</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://r.linqia.cc/2e45821" target="_blank">Fruit Shoot Drink</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://r.linqia.cc/2e45821" target="_blank" title="Hi Sugarplum | Lunch Box Lunches by hi sugarplum!, on Flickr"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | Lunch Box Lunches" height="536" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7046/13880826433_77d3c6b41a_o.jpg" width="550" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Honey Greek Yogurt | Mixed Berries | Granola (for a DIY parfait)</div><div style="text-align: center;">Sliced Ham</div><div style="text-align: center;">Veggie Chips </div><div style="text-align: center;">Bottle Water</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://r.linqia.cc/2e45821" target="_blank">Fruit Shoot drink</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://r.linqia.cc/2e45821" target="_blank" title="Hi Sugarplum | Lunch Box Lunches by hi sugarplum!, on Flickr"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | Lunch Box Lunches" height="549" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2835/13880769835_9b4a8f0d48_o.jpg" width="550" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Sliced Turkey</div><div style="text-align: center;">Caprese Salad of Cherry Tomatoes & Mozzarella (leftover from dinner) </div><div style="text-align: center;">Pretzel Twists</div><div style="text-align: center;">Applesauce Pouch</div><div style="text-align: center;">Granola Bar</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://r.linqia.cc/2e45821" target="_blank">Fruit Shoot drink</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://r.linqia.cc/2e45821" target="_blank" title="Hi Sugarplum | Lunch Box Lunches by hi sugarplum!, on Flickr"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | Lunch Box Lunches" height="541" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2825/13881164124_c9c47c70cc_o.jpg" width="550" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Peanut Butter & Banana on Wheat Sandwich Thin</div><div style="text-align: center;">Greek Yogurt</div><div style="text-align: center;">Carrots & Celery | Ranch dressing for dipping</div><div style="text-align: center;">Trail Mix</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://r.linqia.cc/2e45821" target="_blank">Fruit Shoot drink</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Clearly, I'm not a nutritionist, but I try to keep the lunches balanced and healthy, while still being something the kids will actually eat. It took some trial and error, but I'm learning what gets eaten, and what's left behind...as well as the portion each kid needs. I usually include small bottles of water, but every now and then I'll pop one of these fun <a href="http://r.linqia.cc/2e45821" target="_blank">Fruit Shoot drinks</a> in to get them excited about lunch. Their <a href="http://r.linqia.cc/2e45821" target="_blank">Facebook page</a> has more great ideas for keeping lunches fun, so <a href="http://r.linqia.cc/2e45821" target="_blank">hop over there</a> for more ideas. </div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://r.linqia.cc/2e45821" target="_blank" title="Hi Sugarplum | Lunch Box Lunches by hi sugarplum!, on Flickr"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | Lunch Box Lunches" height="684" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3676/13881165754_5ebf6ac01c_o.jpg" width="550" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Are your kids bringers or buyers? What are some favorites you pack for them...I'm always on the hunt for fresh ideas! Oh, and we use <a href="http://popsu.gr/saPe" target="_blank">these lunchboxes</a>...they are amazing at keeping food cold all day! I'm also considering <a href="http://popsu.gr/saPf" target="_blank">this for hot foods</a>...does anyone have experience with it? <br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>This post is sponsored by <a href="http://r.linqia.cc/2e45821" target="_blank">Fruit Shoot drinks</a>, but the opinions are all mine. Like always. Thank you for supporting Hi Sugarplum sponsors!</i></span></div><img src="http://r.linqia.cc/1bc9b5d" />

Lunch Box Lunches

In the school cafeteria, there are bringers and buyers ...those that bring their lunch from home, and those that buy. My kids have always be...

Read more »

The Dallas Garden Party

Saturday's Garden Party was so much fun, and I was beyond honored to be the host <i>(and to have my face on a sign)!</i><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Untitled" height="549" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3765/13875046825_c3580c2701_z.jpg" width="550" /> </div><br />The Home Depot is hosting these free #SpringMadeSimple events <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/230668812138653319/" target="_blank">all over the country this month and next</a>, where you can come eat, meet with a local blogger, and learn about gardening from an expert.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Untitled" height="674" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3697/13875450294_d5837e3d19_b.jpg" width="550" /></div><br />I was in charge of the pot-painting table at Dallas's Garden Party, and it was a blast to get to chat with local readers and do a little crafting. We used Sharpie paint pens to decorate little terracotta pots before planting them with herbs.<br /><br />Our gardening expert, Mary Katherine Greene <i>(she was born to be a gardeniere with that name!)</i>, talked to us about how to keep herbs happy, and she shared how to make these <a href="http://www.homedepot.com/c/how_to_make_a_raised_bed_salsa_garden_HT_PG_OD" target="_blank">really cool raised beds</a> planted with salsa ingredients!! Yum...I think I need to add this to my backyard STAT!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Untitled" height="548" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7275/13875140763_2dfcd19def_z.jpg" width="550" /> </div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Untitled" height="535" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5062/13875454764_17e45cdf1c_z.jpg" width="550" /></div><br />Southern Living and Fiskars were also on hand to demonstrate their great products available at Home Depot.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Untitled" height="470" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3777/13875152833_81cb2251fe_z.jpg" width="550" /></div><br />The Southern Living gals whipped up this bar cart with some basic shelves and spraypaint...obviously we were destined to be friends! They were sweet enough to send it home with me, so expect to see it pop up in future posts.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Untitled" height="666" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3724/13875132433_422f93edab_b.jpg" width="549" /> </div><br />They also created a beautiful table setting using a painted drop cloth, and their Ready to Impress flowering pots.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Untitled" height="594" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5138/13875070015_8149338fcc_z.jpg" width="550" /></div><br />The Fiskars clippers cut through the wood dowel like buttah...I'm officially a convert! Pretty much everyone in my family bought a pair after trying them out!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Untitled" height="567" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3801/13875113533_d52315c552_z.jpg" width="550" /></div><br />The adorable Alta Mantsch of <a href="http://www.tastyeatsathome.com/" target="_blank">Tasty Eats at Home</a> blog prepared some amazing food...chicken skewers and grilled veggies, along with basil cucumber lemonade...and they were served in the cutest bamboo boats.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Untitled" height="545" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7250/13875146523_710854ee42_z.jpg" width="550" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />Mr. Sugarplum and the kids came by toward the end of the event and they jumped right in with coloring and planting.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Untitled" height="583" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3723/13875543504_967fc3cea5_z.jpg" width="550" /> </div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Untitled" height="550" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7331/13875214103_03433369a2_z.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="550" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Someone raided my jewels!</td></tr></tbody></table></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Untitled" height="557" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7083/13875116625_46d2d50c2c_z.jpg" width="550" /> </div><br />I tried to put the clamp on how many pots Babygirl decorated, but once she discovered the gold pen, there was no stopping her. #likehermama<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Untitled" height="553" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3793/13875131205_b15d10625f_z.jpg" width="550" /> </div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Untitled" height="615" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7377/13875160683_37aa615ae7_z.jpg" width="550" /></div><br />Aren't my mom and aunt the cutest?! It was so fun to have them, and my in-laws, stop by for support. They are probably thinking, <i>"She just has a blog, how does that equate to hosting events?!"</i> I was asking myself the same thing, but I'm not going to question it!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | Garden Party" height="552" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7090/13876966294_77782e37f7_o.jpg" width="550" /></div><br />The Home Depot people are top-notch, and they certainly know how to throw a fun party.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Untitled" height="531" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3767/13875175573_24b282a5f7_z.jpg" width="550" /></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Untitled" height="579" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2820/13875151645_8486954058_z.jpg" width="550" /> </div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />To sign up for the Home Depot's Garden club<i> (which has all sorts of tips, tricks and ideas for gardeners of all skill levels...not to mention coupons!)</i>, <a href="http://www.homdepot.com/gardenparty" target="_blank">head on over here</a>. It was a really fun event, so I'd encourage you to attend one if near you! <i>(My girl, <a href="http://goo.gl/LdG8U1" target="_blank">Kristin</a>, is hosting the Atlanta event!)</i> Thanks to <a href="http://www.homdepot.com/gardenparty" target="_blank">The Home Depot</a> for inviting me to host, and a BIG thanks to those of you that came out for the party...I have the nicest readers ever!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">And in case you're wondering...here's what I'm wearing:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://bit.ly/1h1ocqR" target="_blank">Jeans</a> <i>(40% off!)</i> | <a href="http://bit.ly/1na6IAJ" target="_blank">Tee</a> | <a href="http://bit.ly/1iWGdJg" target="_blank">Shoes</a> | <a href="http://bit.ly/1hJn94W" target="_blank">Watch</a> | <a href="http://popsu.gr/rZFC" target="_blank">Necklace</a> | <a href="http://bit.ly/1h1uQNN" target="_blank">Sunglasses</a> </div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Social_General_Dates_600x600_3_14" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-54553" height="600" src="http://ext.homedepot.com/community/blog/wp-content/wpuploads/Social_General_Dates_600x600_3_14.jpg" width="600" /> </div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div>

The Dallas Garden Party

Saturday's Garden Party was so much fun, and I was beyond honored to be the host (and to have my face on a sign)! The Home Depot is hos...

Read more »

Time to Spruce

You guys...I don't know how these things happen, but I'm <i>thrilled</i> to be hosting <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1459725867578431/" target="_blank">The Dallas Garden Party</a> on April 12, brought to you by The Home Depot <a href="http://pages.homedepot.com/garden?source_id=1048" target="_blank">Garden Club</a>! There's going to be all sorts of fun happening at the event...cooking, crafting, and planting stations, a personal chef and a professional gardener, both offering Q&A, prizes and giveaways! And I'll be there to take some of the classes, too. I hope those of you in the DFW Metroplex will stop by to eat, and get your hands dirty with me!<br /><br />In preparing for the Garden Party, I was motivated to show our neglected backyard some love. It was a long winter<i> (by Texas standards, anyway...I know some of you that still have snow are laughing, and cursing, at me!)</i>. The first step is always the hardest, and least fun, since it involves a lot of sweeping, raking, power-washing and sneezing. But we're off to a good start...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | Spring Clean the Backyard" height="691" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7338/13543685113_f842065ba1_b.jpg" width="550" /></div><br />We've had this Martha Stewart dining set for well over 10 years, and except for a little rusting around the feet, it's still in perfect condition. After a good scrubbing, and some cushions, it's ready for a little dining al fresco. Do you spy the sweet face under the table?<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | Spring Clean the Backyard" height="698" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2885/13543590005_759cbde793_o.jpg" width="550" /> </div><br />Some new plants freshen up the tabletop, and surrounding area. Since I'm not convinced we won't get one last freeze, I'm sticking to potted plants for now <i>(that can easily be temporarily moved to the garage)</i>. I'll wait a few more weeks to plant anything in the ground.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | Spring Clean the Backyard" height="645" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7256/13543685933_1e3b5c8d0e_b.jpg" width="550" /> </div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | Spring Clean the Backyard" height="692" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7078/13543588695_5000df0d2e_o.jpg" width="550" /></div><br />The butterfly chairs are clean, but they'll likely need some fresh paint and new covers this year. Dare I try to sew them myself?! #staytuned<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | Spring Clean the Backyard" height="598" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3699/13543588975_1c816f25ce_z.jpg" width="550" /> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><div style="text-align: left;">We don't typically need to cover outdoor furniture during the winter, but with all the ice and snow this year, we were grateful we had these to protect our patio set.</div></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | Spring Clean the Backyard" height="694" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3833/13543687643_43628f493e_o.jpg" width="550" /> </div><br />I was super impressed with their quality, and the furniture simply needed a quick wipe-down once we removed the covers.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | Spring Clean the Backyard" height="417" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7145/13543590595_6b04690a39_z.jpg" width="550" /> </div><br />Still pretty barren...but it's a start.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | Spring Clean the Backyard" height="622" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3751/13543686553_4f0006efdd_z.jpg" width="550" /></div><br />A far cry from what it looked like last year, but we'll get there. <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="Hi Sugarplum | Cheery Outdoor Patio" height="703" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8237/8598511178_427c67392c_b.jpg" width="550" /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Sugarplum | Spring Clean the Backyard" height="676" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3811/13543589215_2daf1d57ec_o.jpg" width="550" /></div><br />I'm motivated to tackle the rest of the space, but I think I'll wait until after the Garden Party...I have lots of questions for the experts! More info on the event, and an RSVP, can be found <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1459725867578431/" target="_blank">here</a>. I hope you'll come, I'd really love to meet you!<br /><br /><i>Update: The event will be from 1p to 4p, at the Home Depot at 6110 Lemmon Ave., Dallas 75209. </i><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" class="spotlight" height="206" src="https://scontent-a-dfw.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/t1.0-9/60233_10152703852615031_667584048_n.jpg" width="550" /></div><br />And if you're not in the Dallas area, look for these other Garden Parties popping up around the country. <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Social_General_Dates_600x600_3_14" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-54553" height="550" src="http://ext.homedepot.com/community/blog/wp-content/wpuploads/Social_General_Dates_600x600_3_14.jpg" width="550" /></div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Here are some more of my outdoor and garden-style projects you may want to check out:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><!-- inlinkz code start --> </div><div class="ProjectManagerContainer" id="95310"><div><table border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr align="center"><td><div style="display: table-cell; float: left; height: 214px;"><div style="display: table-cell; height: 129px; vertical-align: middle; width: 132px;"><a href="http://lm.inlinkz.com/go.php?i=146508&c=95310" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Lacquered Stripe Pots"><img border="0" class="_inlinkzI" src="http://lm.inlinkz.com/thumbs/20120521/13516/125/1337614873.5" /></a></div><div style="line-height: 1.1; overflow: hidden; vertical-align: bottom; width: 132px;"><a href="http://lm.inlinkz.com/go.php?i=146508&c=95310" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Lacquered Stripe Pots">Lacquered Stripe Pots</a></div></div></td><td><div style="display: table-cell; float: left; height: 214px;"><div style="display: table-cell; height: 129px; vertical-align: middle; width: 132px;"><a href="http://lm.inlinkz.com/go.php?i=370399&c=95310" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Spruced Up Front Porch"><img border="0" class="_inlinkzI" src="http://lm.inlinkz.com/thumbs/20130604/13516/125/1370359027.64" /></a></div><div style="line-height: 1.1; overflow: hidden; vertical-align: bottom; width: 132px;"><a href="http://lm.inlinkz.com/go.php?i=370399&c=95310" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Spruced Up Front Porch">Spruced Up Front Porch</a></div></div></td><td><div style="display: table-cell; float: left; height: 214px;"><div style="display: table-cell; height: 129px; vertical-align: middle; width: 132px;"><a href="http://lm.inlinkz.com/go.php?i=339872&c=95310" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="$15 Garage Door Upgrade"><img border="0" class="_inlinkzI" src="http://lm.inlinkz.com/thumbs/20130409/13516/125/1365519669.72" /></a></div><div style="line-height: 1.1; overflow: hidden; vertical-align: bottom; width: 132px;"><a href="http://lm.inlinkz.com/go.php?i=339872&c=95310" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="$15 Garage Door Upgrade">$15 Garage Door Upgrade</a></div></div></td><td><div style="display: table-cell; float: left; height: 214px;"><div style="display: table-cell; height: 129px; vertical-align: middle; width: 132px;"><a href="http://lm.inlinkz.com/go.php?i=441747&c=95310" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Summer Pool Party"><img border="0" class="_inlinkzI" src="http://lm.inlinkz.com/thumbs/20131004/13516/125/1380902067.84.jpg" /></a></div><div style="line-height: 1.1; overflow: hidden; vertical-align: bottom; width: 132px;"><a href="http://lm.inlinkz.com/go.php?i=441747&c=95310" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Summer Pool Party">Summer Pool Party</a></div></div></td></tr><tr align="center"><td><div style="display: table-cell; float: left; height: 214px;"><div style="display: table-cell; height: 129px; vertical-align: middle; width: 132px;"><a href="http://lm.inlinkz.com/go.php?i=339860&c=95310" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Otomi Stenciled Table"><img border="0" class="_inlinkzI" src="http://lm.inlinkz.com/thumbs/20130409/13516/125/1365519121.36" /></a></div><div style="line-height: 1.1; overflow: hidden; vertical-align: bottom; width: 132px;"><a href="http://lm.inlinkz.com/go.php?i=339860&c=95310" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Otomi Stenciled Table">Otomi Stenciled Table</a></div></div></td><td><div style="display: table-cell; float: left; height: 214px;"><div style="display: table-cell; height: 129px; vertical-align: middle; width: 132px;"><a href="http://lm.inlinkz.com/go.php?i=339865&c=95310" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Dry-Erase Serving Tray"><img border="0" class="_inlinkzI" src="http://lm.inlinkz.com/thumbs/20130409/13516/125/1365519364.07" /></a></div><div style="line-height: 1.1; overflow: hidden; vertical-align: bottom; width: 132px;"><a href="http://lm.inlinkz.com/go.php?i=339865&c=95310" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Dry-Erase Serving Tray">Dry-Erase Serving Tray</a></div></div></td><td><div style="display: table-cell; float: left; height: 214px;"><div style="display: table-cell; height: 129px; vertical-align: middle; width: 132px;"><a href="http://lm.inlinkz.com/go.php?i=339851&c=95310" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Organized Dog Station"><img border="0" class="_inlinkzI" src="http://lm.inlinkz.com/thumbs/20130409/13516/125/1365518758.93" /></a></div><div style="line-height: 1.1; overflow: hidden; vertical-align: bottom; width: 132px;"><a href="http://lm.inlinkz.com/go.php?i=339851&c=95310" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Organized Dog Station">Organized Dog Station</a></div></div></td><td><div style="display: table-cell; float: left; height: 214px;"><div style="display: table-cell; height: 129px; vertical-align: middle; width: 132px;"><a href="http://lm.inlinkz.com/go.php?i=186994&c=95310" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Monogrammed Bag"><img border="0" class="_inlinkzI" src="http://lm.inlinkz.com/thumbs/20120817/13516/125/1345218054.73" /></a></div><div style="line-height: 1.1; overflow: hidden; vertical-align: bottom; width: 132px;"><a href="http://lm.inlinkz.com/go.php?i=186994&c=95310" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Monogrammed Bag">Monogrammed Bag</a></div></div></td></tr><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><div style="display: table-cell; float: left; height: 214px;"><div style="display: table-cell; height: 129px; vertical-align: middle; width: 132px;"><a href="http://lm.inlinkz.com/go.php?i=163526&c=95310" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Outdoor Potting & Party Bench"><img border="0" class="_inlinkzI" src="http://lm.inlinkz.com/thumbs/20120628/13516/125/1340907110.8" /></a></div><div style="line-height: 1.1; overflow: hidden; vertical-align: bottom; width: 132px;"><a href="http://lm.inlinkz.com/go.php?i=163526&c=95310" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Outdoor Potting & Party Bench">Outdoor Potting & Party Bench</a></div></div></td><td style="text-align: center;"><div style="display: table-cell; float: left; height: 214px;"><div style="display: table-cell; height: 129px; vertical-align: middle; width: 132px;"><a href="http://lm.inlinkz.com/go.php?i=163523&c=95310" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Sisal Trivets"><img border="0" class="_inlinkzI" src="http://lm.inlinkz.com/thumbs/20120628/13516/125/1340906905.58" /></a></div><div style="line-height: 1.1; overflow: hidden; vertical-align: bottom; width: 132px;"><a href="http://lm.inlinkz.com/go.php?i=163523&c=95310" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Sisal Trivets">Sisal Trivets</a></div></div></td><td style="text-align: center;"><div style="display: table-cell; float: left; height: 214px;"><div style="display: table-cell; height: 129px; vertical-align: middle; width: 132px;"><a href="http://lm.inlinkz.com/go.php?i=66501&c=95310" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Kitchen Window Herb Garden"><img border="0" class="_inlinkzI" src="http://lm.inlinkz.com/thumbs/20120207/13516/125/1328631280.13" /></a></div><div style="line-height: 1.1; overflow: hidden; vertical-align: bottom; width: 132px;"><a href="http://lm.inlinkz.com/go.php?i=66501&c=95310" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Kitchen Window Herb Garden">Kitchen Window Herb Garden</a></div></div></td><td><div style="display: table-cell; float: left; height: 214px; text-align: center;"><div style="display: table-cell; height: 129px; vertical-align: middle; width: 132px;"><a href="http://lm.inlinkz.com/go.php?i=66495&c=95310" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Adding Character to an Exterior Door"><img border="0" class="_inlinkzI" src="http://lm.inlinkz.com/thumbs/20120207/13516/125/1328630588.15" /></a></div><div style="line-height: 1.1; overflow: hidden; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; width: 132px;"><a href="http://lm.inlinkz.com/go.php?i=66495&c=95310" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="Adding Character to an Exterior Door">Adding Character to an Exterior Door</a></div></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div><a class="_LMLogo" href="http://new.inlinkz.com/pm.php?utm_source=prdlist&utm_medium=widget_o&utm_campaign=powered" rel="nofollow" style="color: #bbbbbb; font: normal normal normal 10px/normal arial; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">InLinkz.com</a></div></div><script src="http://static.inlinkz.com/ppr.js" type="text/javascript"></script><!-- inlinkz code end -->

Time to Spruce

You guys...I don't know how these things happen, but I'm thrilled to be hosting The Dallas Garden Party on April 12, brought to y...

Read more »