Goodies!

These are probably one of my all time favorite cookies! My mom and dad both used to make these when we were growing up and my brother and I would scarf them down. Very easy, very tasty! The perfect summer cookie: no bake cookies means they won't heat up your house! Be warned, they're VERY addicting!!

The cookies looked boring without a little color, hence the strawberries :)

Goodies

Printable Recipe

Ingredients:

1 stick of butter

2 cups of sugar

1/2 cup of milk

2 Tbsp cocoa

1/2 cup chunky peanut butter

3 cups of oatmeal

Melt the butter over medium heat in a large saucepan.  Add sugar, milk and cocoa and bring to a boil. Remove from heat and add peanut butter, stirring until smooth.  Stir in oatmeal.  Drop by tablespoons onto waxed paper or foil and let cool. Store in the refrigerator.  Eat them up, or give your Goodies as Goodies to a neighbor in need :)

I gave my cookies to my lovely neighbors. I attached a little note to my cookies. Here is what it said:

“Thank you for being great neighbors.

You really are quite sweet!

We wanted to bring you Goodies,

A fun little neighborly treat.

If ever you need a hand,

We hope you’ll call on us.

Were blessed to call you friends,

And good people we can trust.”

Enjoy, my friends!

August 2014 Stitch Fix Review #2

We have a new Motley Mutt. I swore that nothing else that pooped was moving into my house. How could my resolve have failed so miserably? You tell me:

Cute little sucker, isn’t he? Tobi-Wan Kenobi, Tobi for short, officially joined our Motley crew.  I feel like I have a toddler running amuck again (albeit a very sharp toothed, ridiculously yappy one). Since sitting down to type up this review, I’ve put the squeaky toy out of reach (how can one toy be SOOOOO obnoxious?), pulled the laptop cord out of his mouth, gotten up to take him potty (thank heavens he’s potty trained!)…twice, shooshed him from barking at the cat, and cuddled him on my lap while he chewed on my arm. Phew. I’m exhausted. I feel like my life has gotten just a little bit crazier (and it was pretty crazy already!).

Why yes! He does eat EVERYTHING :)

Thank heavens for Stitch Fix!

Thank heavens for the internet and for STITCH FIX!! At least I won’t have to chase the puppy around in frumpy clothes! I can have clothes delivered right to my door without leaving the air conditioned comfort of my humble abode.  It’s that time again, ladies and gentlemen! My second Stitch Fix Review (I know you’re simply twitching with anticipation, I mean, how could you not be?). 

What? You don’t know what Stitch Fix is? Oh my. You’d better catch up by reading my first review on Stitch Fix!  To summarize, it’s an online personal styling service that ships five articles of clothing specifically picked out just for you…Right.To.Your.Door!   After filling out an online survey, providing your Pinterest Style board if desired, and paying a $20 styling fee, Stitch Fix chooses pieces that best fit your needs and style. You choose what to keep and simply pay online. Mail back the pieces you don’t like in their handy, dandy prepaid mailer. Easy peasy. 

Without further ado…sit back, hide the squeaky toys, and enjoy!

Stitch Fix Review #2

I have my “Fix” set up for a monthly delivery and was beyond thrilled that the package arrived two days early. I also have to admit that I “peeked” and had some idea what was coming. Once your package has shipped, you can go to the Stitch Fix site and click on “Checkout”.  It will list all of the items in your package (you don't actually have to checkout your items at that time). Using your stellar Google stalking skills (try saying that ten times fast!), you should be able to see what the items will look like, although it won’t tell you what colors are arriving.

I had a new stylist this month, and she was fantastic. Check out the nice note she left for me:

What was in my box?

Just kidding. Keep reading ;)

Pomelo Martina Slub Knit Open Cardigan

I have to wear a hideous black polo to work. Really…it’s hideous.

I like to try to camouflage said polo in cute cardigans and scarves. So while it is still 110 degrees here, this light weight cardigan is perfect for hiding unsightly work polos. What do you think? Can you tell it’s a polo? I left the collar out on one side so you wouldn't be completely fooled!

This cardigan is very  lightweight, but the material is top notch. This little guy will not only make the polo “disappear”, but might just keep the air conditioned frostbite at bay! This is not your cheapy $12 Target cardigan, this is one high quality, well-fitting, timeless, layering piece.

Verdict: Kept

Gilley Gabbiey Sleeveless Dress

I adored the color of this dress! Coral is right up my alley! Sadly, this beauty was made of a lightweight material that showed every little lump and bump (and ain’t nobody got time for that!). 

The top part was a bit big as well, leaving an excess of material hanging in the back.

Verdict: Returned

Kut From the Kloth Elliot Cargo Pocket Denim Short

If you read my first review, you know I have an addiction to blinged out shorts. My eyes see blingy, sparkly things and I have to have them! This is why I NEED Stitch Fix. I need help to overcome my blingy booty problem. This month, Stitch Fix delivered! I wasn't sure about these shorts at first, but once I tried them on, I knew they were keepers. They fit so comfortably and the length was perfect! I love that they weren’t too long, but they weren’t teeny bopper booty shorts either! These are shorts I can run amuck in!

Verdict: Kept

41Hawthorn Beatrice Exposed Zipper Dolman Top

I was so excited to see the bright, hot pink color of this top! It was really a gorgeous color! Sadly, the top did not fit like I’d hoped. It was very comfortable, very nice material, but it made me look like a giant pregnant raspberry (just go with the image). The giant pregnant raspberry look was not was I was going for.

 

EEK! It's a giant pregnant raspberry!

Verdict: Returned

Pixley Tracy Dot Print Cross Back Knit Top

I have to admit…I shuddered when I saw polka dots. I am not a polka dot girl. My grandmother had a favorite black and white polka dot blouse she wore on a regular basis. Polka dots remind me of grandmas. I don’t want to look like a grandma. I tried it on anyway….and guess what? It was cute! This is why I love Stitch Fix. I would NEVER have tried this on at the store. The top was very comfortable, had a high-low fit, which I liked, and a fun cross strap back. But the biggest surprise of all? My husband who never comments on any of my clothes said, “That’s a really nice top. I like it.” I almost fainted.

Love the criss cross straps and longer back!

Verdict: Kept

I was really pleased with this fix. The styles and color were perfect for me. Even the dress and Dolman top were colors I loved, they just weren't the right fit for me. Stitch Fix has done what I had hoped....they've found designs and styles that look great...but I never in a million years would have chosen :) I'll be the most un-frumpy, puppy chasin' mama around! Don't miss out! Get your own Stitch Fix today! You won't be sorry! Have a wonderful day, my friends!

Disclaimer: I don’t work for Stitch Fix, nor am I paid to review their services. I’m simply a little ol’ shopper sharing my humble thoughts and opinions. If you do decide to use the referral link, I receive referral credit. Much obliged, my friends ;)

For Kira

There is something about having a warm, fuzzy little body to love on that is so very comforting. Animals have been used as therapy for years, and for good reason.  Let me share a story with you:

In October 2012, my baby brother, Sean, passed away. It was unexpected and devastating beyond words. He left behind a grief-stricken family who didn’t know how to go on in a world without him. Everyone says that “time heals all wounds”. Well, my friends, that is a bold faced lie. They don’t heal, it might scab over a bit, but the pain is always there.

There is, however, something that can help keep that pain in check: something that kept all of us functioning at a time where functioning didn’t seem important. As I look back, I’m surprised I didn’t see it before. I’m talking about the healing power of pets.

During the months after my brother’s death, my mom simply could not function: enter her Silky Terrier, Millie. Every day I thanked God for giving my parents Millie. Millie made my mom get out of bed. It was Millie who encouraged (and when I say encouraged, I really mean harassed) mom to keep going to the dog park and meeting her friends every morning. That dog gave my mom purpose and kept her moving every single day. The women at the dog park were therapeutic for her too.  Millie was good for my father too and I know that my dad was so very relieved that my mom was getting out and going to the dog park. We used to joke at how spoiled Millie was; now we don’t. She deserves to be treated like the fluffy little Queen she is!

Our own animals gave us similar comfort. My Callie and Montana,  90lb Golden Retrievers, followed me everywhere in the days following Sean’s death. I couldn’t understand it at the time, but it was their way of comforting me. If I sat on the floor, Callie was crawling on top of me (she thinks she’s a lap dog). Diva, our cat-who-thinks-she’s-a-dog, took to sleeping right behind my head at night. She’d never done that before: it was sweet and comforting.

And then…there was Kira. A widow at 31, my brother’s wife, Paula, was beyond devastated.  A few months prior to his death, Sean and Paula adopted Kira.

Adopting Kira

 A large black lab mix, Kira was an exuberant puppy. Sean was the disciplinarian, Paula was the fun parent. After Sean died, Kira was lost. When we arrived a few days after his death, you could tell she was confused. She looked for Sean, he wasn’t there. She didn’t know what was going on, everyone was so very sad.  As time went on, Kira and Paula formed an unbreakable bond. Kira was the reason Paula got up in the morning. Kira was simply there when Paula needed love, but didn’t want to talk to anyone. She gave Paula purpose and the unconditional love and comfort she needed.  The night before Sean’s memorial service was full of tears and grief. As we all sat in Sean and Paula’s backyard, we couldn’t help but laugh as Kira ran circles in the yard…chasing the spotlight in the sky.

Sean and Kira

Kira was Paula’s travel companion as she began her new life without Sean. She walked on the beaches of Florida with Paula and hiked the mountains in Colorado. She helped Paula realize that there was still life after Sean.

Paula and Kira

These animals selflessly helped our family go on.

Sadly, Kira died in a tragic accident two weeks ago. Her passing was just as unexpected as Sean’s. Paula is now left to grieve another lost love. I kept thinking of what I could do to help ease Paula’s pain and honor Kira’s memory. So here you go:

My children and I volunteer each weekend at Ohana Animal Rescue. So many animals need good homes, and so many people can benefit from the love and comfort these animals can offer.  Ohana is desperately in need of donations for the animals, whether it be supplies or a monetary donation. If you’d like to donate, please click a link below.  Feel free to mention they are in honor of Kira, a wonderful friend, companion and healer….gone way to soon. Thank you. 

Help Our Ohana With A Kind Donation

Purchase items from our Amazon Wishlist to be sent directly to Ohana Animal Rescue:

For the Dogs: OAR Amazon Dog Wishlist

For the Cats: OAR Amazon Cat Wishlist

Or make a monetary donation via PayPal:

              

In loving memory of Kira - August 2, 2014 

Better Homes & Garden Wax Tart Review

It happens. Don’t kill me. I broke down and veered off my “supporting small business” path. In my defense, I had a weak fragrance moment. My drawer full of wax tarts was ridiculously low. Yes, I had about 20 tarts (okay, maybe more) in my stash, but nothing “sounded good”. You know you’ve been there, admit it. Rifling through fragrances and not finding one to suit your mood…major bummer. I was secretly freaking out, I NEEDED a fragrance fix!

 Now, I had to pick up socks for my boy child who seems to go through ridiculous amounts of foot wear each week (how many holes can one child put his socks in one week?). As I perused for socks, an end cap at one of the aisles in Wally World caught my attention. Wax. A whole display of wax. I was slightly jittery in anticipation. Now, I consider myself fairly knowledgeable when it comes to tarts. I have burned just about every major brand out there. It’s my opinion that so many mass produced wax fragrance products are just not up to my wax aficionado standards (in other words, I’m SUPER picky). Again, this is just my own opinion. Now, Wally World (Wal-Mart) is known for low prices. And not that you can’t get good wax melts for low prices, but I was very, very skeptical.

The brand on display was Better Homes & Garden. A big company….mass produced wax melts…..I figured these were going to be junk. But like a true addict, I couldn't resist. I had to go smell them (much to my disgruntled son’s displeasure). I liked the price, $2.00 a clam-shell pack, 6 wax cubes. I ignored my inner wax snob and grabbed a pack of Orange Buttercream Cupcake. It smelled DELISH. For $2.00, if I didn’t like it, I wouldn’t feel too guilty.

I used all the Orange Buttercream Cupcake before I thought to take a photo ;)

I was so excited to try out my new wax…I left without getting the socks.

I had very low expectations of this tart, after all, it was a dreaded mass produced fragrance find. The cold throw was phenomenal, but so many tarts do smell fantastic cold, only to fizzle out when heated up. The wax popped out easily, no mess, and melted extremely well. The Orange Buttercream Cupcake was fantabulous!! I was flabbergasted. Not only did the hot throw fill my entire downstairs and halfway up the second level, it was absolutely mouthwatering.

With strong top notes of orange softened by hints of creamy butter and a splash of vanilla, this was one decadent melt. I didn’t smell much of a “cupcake” type fragrance initially, but the cupcake notes seemed to do a stealthy sneak attack about halfway through burning. This was a lovely tart. As an added bonus, I did get a giggle from my boy child who proclaimed, “Mom, the bathroom smells like fruit loops.”

The melt started out so strong, I expected it to fade within hours. This is very common with many tarts, small business melts included. Again, I was pleasantly surprised. Two wax cubes in my electric warmer lasted well over eight hours strong! For $2.00, this was a definite keeper!

Side View of Wax Clamshell Tarts

I was so encouraged by the Orange Buttercream Cupcake, I knew I wanted to try more. And you know…. I did forget my son’s socks; I really did need to go back to the store. I headed back to the store the next day to see what other fragrances I needed…oh and to grab socks. $20 later, socks and fragrances in hand, I was set.

Not every fragrance I tried was a winner, but for the most part, all the fragrances were very dependable in the strength department, (and for the record, the Butterscotch Maple Cream made me deliriously happy). While I do still promote supporting small home based, or small businesses, if you’re in a fragrance bind and desperately need a quick “fix”, give Better Homes and Garden’s wax cubes a try. The price is affordable and the quality top notch.


*I do not, nor have I ever worked for BH & G. I’m simply a quiet little fragrance addict sharing my love for all things scented and saving my readers money by honestly reviewing my finds while working to prevent the inevitable buyer’s remorse sure to ensue with the realization that you have wasted money on a crummy wax product. You can thank me later.

**If you are not sure what exactly a “wax tart” is, or how you use them, please visit my Candlefind friends to read an article I’ve previously written by clicking here Deirdre's article on wax tarts.  

Have a fantastic day, my friends!

Stitch Fix Introduction and First Review!

During one of my early morning jaunts onto Facebook, I stumbled upon a post regarding Stitch Fix. Being the nosy gal I am, I of course clicked on the link to see what all the buzz was about. Hold on to your coffee mugs people….your world is about to get rocked (okay, well maybe not rocked, but maybe a little bit riled up!).

Stitch Fix: What is it?

Stitch Fix is an online service which provides you with your very own personal fashion stylist! You simply answer their online questionnaire (questions regarding your sizes, fabric preferences, how you prefer your clothes to fit, would you prefer work clothes or casual, etc.), then they ship you five articles of clothing for you to try on in the privacy of your own home. You can even link your Stitch Fix profile to your own Pinterest board to help your stylist get a better handle on what type of styles you like! During your questionnaire process, they ask you to choose a price range for your clothing. I love this! Whether you are on a strict budget or not, Stitch Fix has options for everyone.

There is an initial $20 styling fee (which is applied towards any clothes you chose to purchase). If you purchase all five pieces, you receive 25% off your entire order. If you chose not to keep the clothing, you simply ship back the unwanted pieces in their convenient prepaid mailer and pay online for the clothing you do want.  You have three days to decide if you will keep the clothing or not.  You can chose the frequency of your “fixes” to suit your personal addiction…preference…I meant preference.   They offer monthly packages or fixes as frequent as every 2-3 weeks.

Why do I need it?

I’m a professional shopper. I admit it. I love to shop. So why in the world would I need someone to send me clothes I haven’t picked out? Let me illustrate my need for you….my closet is full of tank tops and blingy shorts. LOTS of tank tops and blingy shorts. Red, pink, teal, black, green and mint tank tops abound.

Do you see the trend here? Apparently I’m a monochromatic tank top and blingy shorts type of girl. Yes, I have other outfits, but sheesh….the majority of my everyday wear is well…the same. I need variety and apparently I seem to only pick out the same style of clothing each time I shop. Enter Stitch Fix! 

When I filled out my online profile, I clicked on “Be adventurous” for my style choices.  I unclicked it 4 times before slapping my own hand and clicking it for good. I need to mix things up! I linked my Pinterest “Style” board to my Stitch Fix account as well. This was followed by many hours of pinning outfits I loved (and I’m pretty sure several people unfollowed me due to the flurry of dresses, jeans, and outfits that popped up every three seconds on my boards inundating their Pinterest page).  I anxiously awaited my “fix” and obsessively stalked FedEx (my refresh button may have quit working after the 300th time).  Finally the package arrived (albeit a few days late). So did the goods live up to the hype? 

Stitch Fix Review #1

I have anticipated this day for weeks. Yes, weeks, my friends.  So without further delay, here’s hoping this is an end to my monochromatic tank top days!

What was in my box?

Collective Concepts Esten Button-Up Sleeveless Blouse in Navy

I had seen this blouse online in other fixes. Thank goodness. Had I read the word "blouse" on my style card, I might have cringed. Hellllloooo….tank top girl here, I don’t do “blouses”. BUT, this is exactly why I need Stitch Fix! I LOVED this top, and yes, it’s still a solid color and STILL technically a tank top, but it’s a very classy one. The material is top notch and this is a great layering piece. The buttons are very tastefully hidden (which is great…as my nails are so long, I can’t button the darn things!). Just a heads up...it was 113 out and I had a teenager taking photos...no giggling at me, please :)

Verdict: Kept

Market and Spruce Bruno Chevron Print Sleeveless Tunic

I have to admit, I’m not a fan of Chevron print. Wearing Chevron makes me feel like I’ve stolen Charlie Brown’s shirt. The pattern and colors on this tunic were “just okay” for me (do I sound like Randy Jackson?). When I pulled out the top, I was slightly confused. Tunic…is that a top? Is it a dress? My fantabulous stylist suggested I pair it with white shorts (the shirt was so long I looked like I had no pants on!). This was so different from everything I owned, I really tried to like it.

I tried it as a dress:

As a top:

I even tried it layered (keep in mind it was 113 out…oh the things I do for you guys!).

It just wasn’t me. It fit funky, and just made me look frumpy. *Sigh*

Verdict: Returned

Pixley Laural Sleeveless Geo Print Maxi Dress

I’m 5’ 2” and the words “Maxi Dress” make me cringe. They give me visions of a Jennifer Lawerence-ish trip-over-your-dress-fiasco. While I adored the color and the extremely lovely material, this dress absolutely screamed, “Hey!  I look pregnant and if you watch me long enough, I’m probably going to fall flat on my face.” Good times. I will definitely be more specific in my requests next time. No maxis for this mini.

Verdict: Returned

Ezra Alejandro Printed Double Spaghetti Strap Tank

My monochromatic tank top syndrome may have been cured!  I loved the hot pink mixed into the pattern on this fun, sassy top. The straps were fun too (once I figured out how they work and managed to get my arms in the right places). The top was a bit big, but I really loved how it looked and felt.  What do you think?

Verdict: Kept

 Pixley Dafanie Diamond Ikat Print Soft Short

Last but least favorite, these guys. These shorts screamed, “Hey, the Golden Girls called, they want their pajama bottoms back”, (no offense Golden Girls). These were definitely not for me. The wonky pattern on the shorts reminded me of Las Vegas Casino carpets: definitely not betting on these shorts.  I don't even want my face associated with these guys!

Verdict: Returned

Overall, I really enjoyed the entire experience. I love that I received two shirts I normally wouldn't have picked out. I did update my profile and give extensive feedback to my stylist, so have high hopes for my next Stitch Fix! The entire process from start to finish was astonishingly easy and I'm looking forward to my next "Fix"!  Stay tuned, and if you’d like your own fix, visit Stitch Fix, you won't be disappointed!

Disclaimer: I don’t work for Stitch Fix, nor am I paid to review their services. I’m simply a little ol’ shopper sharing my humble thoughts and opinions. If you do decide to use the referral link, I receive referral credit. Much obliged, my friends ;)

Welcome to Motley Matters!!

I started Motley Matters simply as a way to “do something just for me”. I love to write and yet I never take the time to sit down and do it. As I thought about what I wanted to write, I knew I needed to write something that would make people smile. I’m a true believer in acts of kindness and try to do at least one genuine act of kindness each and every day. Sometimes…they are bigger acts and sometimes they are just little ones. I figured blogging about some of my simple acts might motivate others to do the same…and wouldn’t the world be a better place if we all tried to do nice things for each other?

On a somewhat shallower side, I so love to shop! I can go to the mall for 6 hours and be happy as a kid sucking on a six pack of helium balloons. I’ve written several well received reviews for a large candle review board and decided that I enjoy being rather blunt about my shopping experiences. Nothing is worse than spending money and HATING what you purchase. It is my solemn pledge to honestly review my purchases as well as overall experiences and share those intimate ramblings with you. I do not get paid to review ANY COMPANY. If you have a product you think I should try out, let me know and I will see what I can do!

 And lastly, I’m a very busy mom. I work part time and spend the rest of my time running children around and attempting to keep my house from falling into a complete chaotic disorder. When I started thinking about what I would like my blog to encompass, I kept coming back to tips for busy moms….which then evolved into cooking for busy moms. I will premise this by saying, I’m not a chef. This is not a gourmet blog. This isn’t even a semi-gourmet blog. Ladies and gentlemen, I am a convenience cooker: quick, easy, fuss free and tasty. If a recipe has more than 10 ingredients, I will more than likely never make it. There you have it. Motley Matter recipes will be easy as pie…..pun intended! It is my hope that you will stop by, smile, laugh, learn a little something new and maybe even be inspired to bake some cookies! Enjoy!

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