Why Tara loves Cooking, and you can too!

Guess what? It’s time for another guest blogger around here! Today we’re welcoming Tara over at A Hill Country Heart! Tara started commenting on my posts back in August and I always love to return the favor because it’s how I meet most of my blogger friends, so I quickly clicked on her page and it was history from there! I love her page first of all. It’s so simple and easy to navigate (something i’m working on for my own blog). But I also love that she’s close to my age and in the same stage of life as me. I feel like her and I are alike in many ways so that’s always fun too!

And she has family up in my area so i’m like come up here and let’s be friends!

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Hi y’all! My name is Tara and I blog over at A Hill Country Heart! I’m here today to tell you why I love cooking, and why I believe you can too!

But first, I actually have a funny story about Molly and me!  I found Molly’s blog through a link-up (What’s Up Wednesday I think?) and loved it and her immediately! I started following her blog daily and would gather here and there that she maybe lived in Texas too, but I wasn’t sure exactly where. Well…it turns out we actually worked for the same hospital (a chain of 6 hospitals) but in different cities and we didn’t even know it! I had even, as we later came to find out, made two trips to her hospital and met a bunch of people she works with! I was so surprised when we finally put two and two together. Such a small [blogger] world!

Anyway, I am more than honored and extremely excited to guest post for Colors of Life! I wanted to write about something that I used to think was hard and just not for me, but that I have come to love. I also thought “Why Tara loves drinking margaritas, and you can too!” was too easy (plus, I know you ladies love margaritas ☺). But really, I want you all to know that if you also think like I used to – that is that cooking takes too much time, is too hard, and is more of a chore, that it’s not! It can be easy, quick and it can even be fun!

Here are some reasons I love to cook:

1. It is so fun to cook for and with other people! It’s a great bonding experience. It’s also extremely satisfying to cook and eat your own meals! So pat yourself on the back when you do! 
2. I’m big into health and fitness and cooking allows you to know just how much sugar, fat, etc. you are getting from what you eat (what’s really in fast food anyway??) 
3. I really love eating and get sad when it’s over so cooking makes the process last longer (and you can taste test along the way ☺) 
4. I LOVE the presentation of food! For me it’s fun. I can’t draw or paint all that well so it kind of brings out my artistic side in a different way. 
5. Unlike baking (which I also love), you can kind of add as much as you want of what you want (pick your favorite spices, veggies, etc.)

Some tips for cooking:

1. I like to wash and pre-chop veggies and fruit so that when I do cook, I don’t have to spend extra time doing this. For example, I’ll chop green onions and stick them in a little baggie in my fridge. This way, I can just grab them and throw them in when I’m ready to cook. 
2. If I like a recipe I make, I’ll make it a few times so that I can remember how to do it and just whip it up real quick ☺ 
3. I got into cooking by taking a food and nutrition class my senior year in high school but there are so many classes out there you can take to get a grasp on cooking (I have taken classes at Sur La Table and they have been GREAT!), OR these days you can take online cooking classes or use Youtube!
   
   
4. Pinterest is a great place to find recipes, as you probably know! I get so many of my recipes from off of Pinterest but I always make sure to read comments that people leave on the recipes first! Sometimes you can tell whether or not it’s a good recipe by the comments.

Thank you all for stopping by to read about why I love cooking and thank you Molly for having me over to your blog!

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Yep, Tara I pretty much agree 100% with everything that you mentioned here especially prepping everything beforehand. Mom and I will prep Thanksgiving way in the morning, rest during the day, and start cooking up early afternoon. It’s a good process for us! Also friends, if you’re interested in the Paleo diet (I actually might be doing this for health reasons soon so that’s why i’m mentioning it) you should read her 30 days of Paleo. It’s so interesting!

 Thanks, girlfriend!!! MOVE UP TO DFW ALREADY! 🙂

And if you’ve missed any other part of this series about what we love, check them out:

Why I love running, and you can too!
Why I love yoga, and you can too!
Why Kylie loves Spinning, and you can too!
Why Jamie loves Celebrating, and you can too!
Why Christina loves Hosting, and you can too!
Why Julie loves Hiking, and you can too!
Why Randi loves Pittsburgh, and you can too!
Why Angie loves Self Care, and you can too!
Why Mattie loves Zumba, and you can too!
Why Katie loves Reading, and you can too!
Why Lindsay loves Hot Yoga, and you can too!
Why Emily loves Decorating, and you can too!

November Pin-spired!

Well, I thought that Pin-Spired was going to be on Wednesday because um I don’t know why? But then of course after I did my daily Shay and Sheaffer blog stalking on Friday I found out it was Monday with Mel, too. And then all of a sudden I got all “holy crap I can’t be my normal procrastinating self and wait until Tuesday” panicky. *Cue me getting on Pinterest during my 8am Friday lecture*

So I’m searching Pinterest and all, right? I can’t seem to understand why nothing is popping out in my face and inspiring me to get Pin-Spired. Then I got mad at Pinterest and broke up with her for a day. (No it wasn’t me being moody and cranky in my 8am lecture. How dare you think that!) Saturday I was drinking some hot chocolate and I thought I should apologize to Pinterest for being breaking up with her and try again. So, I got back on and started scrolling, then it hit me….I’m not finding anything popping out at me because it’s all so SIMPLE! I know that the holidays are coming up, so we tend to spend less on our own outfits and clothes and more on presents, obviously. This is that difficult “there’s so many things I want but I have to wait until after Christmas” time. Therefore, I thought this was the perfect month for turning the simple pieces of your wardrobe into simply comfy, cozy, cute outfits. November’s Pin-spired is brought to you thanks to Pinterest being forgiving and that hot chocolate on Saturday. Let’s check out…

SIMPLICITY!

*Because most of my outfits were pieces in my closet put together, some clothing recommendations might not be exact, but most are.*
Also, Target is offering free shipping and save 20% when you spend $75 on clothing, shoes, and accessories!! Links under the pictures.

Simplicity #1:

becauseshannasaidso

This outfit just screams my name. Leopard, leggings, boots, and military green. I think I started drooling once I came across this outfit. Here’s my version…

Leopard Scarf//Black Legging Pants//Green Tunic Option//Another Green Jacket Option//Brown Boots//Layering Tank
The brown boots I linked to got 4.7 stars and have a quilted part. They look amazing! Also, I do believe that thanks to the tank it covers the crotchal area. So I think I pass Sheaffer’s test!!

Simplicity #2:

source

For the not so cold, cold days you can throw on a sweatshirt shirt with a scarf of your choice, jeans, and booties. Because why not? It’s a comfortable, easy outfit. Especially for a day you’re just hanging around the house.


Grey Sweatshirt Shirt (ON CLEARANCE)//Navy Scarf//Black Booties//Skinny Jeans

Simplicity #3:

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I love a long cardigan. This one is super soft. Now, I don’t really wear heels except for fancy occasions, but I love a good pair of booties so I chose that instead with a long necklace.

 Charcoal Cardigan//Layering Tank//Black Legging Pants//Black Booties//Long necklace (cute tassle option)

Simplicity #4:

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Another staple that I believe EVERY closet needs. Women, men, kids, whomever…need. a. denim. shirt.! And you will see why I say that in the rest of this post. Instead of the military green pants in this collage, I used grey pants. And then as we know from Shay, that #leopardisaneautral (the link is the first post that I saw her actually say it) I throw leopard in my outfits as often as possible. The scarf and the flats. Oh my goodness. I love.

Leopard scarf//Denim Shirt//Grey Legging Pants//Leopard flats

Simplicity #5:

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This is absolutely the most simple outfit in the world. If you’re ever in one of those “omg I have no clothes I hate my closet (when it’s full of clothes) mood” that I go through at least once a week..this is super easy to pull together.

Leopard scarf//Denim shirt//Black Legging Pants//Brown Boots

Right about now is when I got “the look” from my brothers. The why are you running by us every minute in different, random clothes all excited look. All I said was #FTB (for the blog). They just don’t understand. Boys…

Simplicity #6:

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I fell in love with this outfit, it was definitely one of my favorites. First of all girl in the emerald, you’re ADORABLE! and I can’t find her on Pinterest, so sad. I didn’t have emerald in my closet but I did find this loose fitting flowy shirt in the closet and knew this was the one. Look, i’ve even got my cup of coffee like she does. 🙂 I love the back of this shirt. It doesn’t show your bra in the back, which I love because it’s such a pain having to change your bra in order to cooperate with a piece of clothing.

Scarf//Shirt//Skinny Jeans//Tall Black Boots (version of the brown)

(I think Sheaffer’s case for over-the-knee boots would apply here)

Simplicity #7:

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Sometimes it’s cold outside but I don’t feel like I need to bundle up completely, maybe just wear a warm sweater. Maybe because i’m from Texas and am used to it being warm. I really don’t know. But I liked this outfit. A good sweater = a good day. See, i’m cuddling with myself because i’m so warm and cozy. There those leopard flats come making an appearance. And i’m sure it would look cute with the scarf too if I wanted that.

Sweater Jacket//Layering Tank//Jeans Rolled up//Leopard flats

Simplicity #8:

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I do understand that not many people probably have this outfit in their closets and it’s not simple, but when I saw this on Pinterest and knew I had some funky leggings, I had to show it. There’s something about funky leggings that can brighten your day and your look. The second picture is me thinking “Ohhh I don’t know if I look completely ridiculous or cute but I like it either way”. There’s that darn denim shirt again. How dare this piece of clothing be so versatile!! 😉 I’m telling you. It does wonders.

Scarf (not exact, but would look good with leggings)//Denim shirt//Fun leggings

Simplicity #9

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Dear Sheaffer, (if you can’t tell I love her blog. she can rock anything. check it out if you haven’t already) yes, I am absolutely, most definitely, positively, one thousand percent crazy MAD FOR PLAID! You nailed your post, and I hope I can do it some justice here. This is also such an easy outfit for a fall day when it’s chilly but not freezing. And check out the totally awesome striped elbow pads on this shirt. Love. I wanted some height to this outfit so I threw on my booties. And the best part is you can accessorize this outfit however you want.

Plaid shirt//Skinny Jeans//Black Booties

Like throwing the navy scarf in there.

Navy Scarf

I really hope you were inspired to pull out your simple clothing pieces to throw together some cute, cozy, and comfy outfits this holiday month or get some of these very versatile closet staples. Happy Monday after Halloween!!!! I know i’m well rested after that extra hour yesterday.

PSA: even when you’re cranky and tired don’t break up with Pinterest because she really is good to you and might save your procrastinating self some day.

Don’t forget what I said earlier! Target is offering free shipping and save 20% when you spend $75 on clothing, shoes, and accessories!!

Please note, this post contains affiliate links. Clicking on these links may result in compensation for the blog author. Thank you for reading and supporting my blog.

Creepin’ on my Phone + Stella & Dot

We all know that when we first visit someone’s blog we usually click the “About Me” button. We want to know about this person. When we know about this person we have a better understanding of their personality, their goals, their blog, their life, etc. And sometimes we’re just straight up nosy. I know I am. I like to know things and I like to know about other people. I like to “creep” on people…in a normal way, not a stalker way hahah! SO, that being said I thought i’d let ya creep on my most prized and personal possession. My phone!

When I thought about this it was obviously 11:10 yesterday morning, so I went and found my phone wherever it was hiding and took some screenshots. I’m not very good about having  my phone with me sometimes, but usually there’s a text from someone at work asking to pick up a shift…#waitressprobs

And I unlock my phone and this is my home screen. These are the apps that I use most. This is what I love about the iPhone (yes I still have the 4 and am on 3G, but i’m getting a new one soon!) is that you can personalize you apps to how you want it.

My next page are the apps that I use, but not all the time. I like this one because I can see my pictures from Orange Beach this summer. Miss those early beach mornings.

And because I love taking pictures, i’m showing you my camera roll. These are the latest pictures I have. Most of the time I delete my pictures after I put them on my computer because this darn 8G iPhone 4 doesn’t have a lot of space to hold pictures.

Then, of course i’ve got all my social media apps next to each other. You can follow me on Twitter @mollymiddleton

 

But i’m usually checking my Instagram when I get into my phone. Follow me! @mollymiddleton01

And the wonderful Pinterest. I like using it on my computer more than my phone because I can usually see more things at one time, however sometimes there are just days class is stretching out too long and you’ve got to get on Pinterest to make the time go faster.

Molly (Colors of Life blog)

Pandora! Obviously I listen to multiple kinds of music. Sometimes instead of my iPod I take my phone for Pandora on my runs. Sometimes I turn on Pandora to study. Sometimes I turn on Pandora for some noise. Sometimes I turn on Pandora to jam in the car. I love this FREE app.

Andddddd of course AtBat is on my phone. This is where I keep up with my Red Sox season after season to see News, Standings, Scores, etc. I love the Red Sox and I love baseball.

The Bible app is on my phone. Sometimes when i’m out and about or at school and need some motivation or inspiration i’ll open up my Bible app and look at my verse of the day or read along with the series i’m currently in. But most of the time i’m usually using my Kids’ Bible (of which I absolutely LOVE) because it’s tangible.

And then there’s safari. I don’t have the Facebook app, ’cause I don’t get on as much as I have in the past, but when I do I usually just use safari to do so. I also open up Mix and Match Mama’s recipes on safari if i’m at the store and needing to know what my grocery list is. And then of course checking my grades. That’s really all I use safari for, and it’s funny because this is what was actually on my safari app when I opened it. I didn’t have to change it one bit to take this picture.

Phones are very descriptive of people’s lives. I think you can tell a lot about someone by the contents of their phone. Hopefully you know me a little better, or you just got some pleasure out of “creeping” on my phone!

Leave a comment below if you would like to “creep” on another part of my life!! I’m open for all kinds of requests.

Oh, one more thing….

Some of you may know that when I was at the University of Oklahoma I rushed and pledged Pi Beta Phi. I’ve been seeing all sorts of Instagrams and Tweets about big/little recently. Initiation will be coming up soon, so I thought i’d feature some CUTE S&D arrow jewelry. This would be the perfect gift for your big/little/g-big/friend/house mom/daughter/you/etc. for initiation, Christmas, you name it!

That famous arrow necklace everywhere?

yes…can we all just take a minute to “oooh and ahhh” over how cute Anna Kendrick (singing the cup song in my head) and Des (hi bachelorette fans!) look with that arrow wrapped around their neck???

so get your arrow necklace (in gold or silver) HERE

and how ’bout  those ladies like me that just love you some bangles? This precious arrow bracelet

is the perfect thing for you.

#armcandyonpoint

arrow bracelet HERE
spikey bracelet HERE
link bracelet HERE
small bead “love” bracelet HERE (promo is 3 for $60 as seen in Health Magazine!!)
beaded stretch bracelet HERE
So layer, layer, layer!

AND THIS JUST IN!!!!

The arrow wishing bracelet is part of the new arrivals. The arrow stands as a reminder to follow your dreams.

Hurry and snag this bracelet HERE before everyone else does!!!

and the arrow ring

is HERE in silver
and HERE in gold

As for those of you other ladies that don’t necessarily want an arrow piece of jewelry, click HERE to shop stella & dot’s new arrivals!!

These are going fast this time of year. If you are an owner of Stella and Dot pieces i’d love to see it on you. Tag me @mollymiddleton01 on Instagram so everyone can look under my tagged photos and see your jewels! Happy fun shopping!!

PINTERESTed in: Leopard Flats

I decided to start a new series today called “PINTERESTed in” where i’ll find something all over Pinterest and just have to show you because it really interests me…get it?? They will be things that you just have to have. Feel free to link up to me!

So friends, if you’ve been hanging around here long enough you are well aware of my love affair with leopard print. You know that

So, that being said I just got this pair of leopard flats AND I’M IN LOVE. Really and truly, why get married, when I have already found my soulmate. Yes! they go with EVERYTHING…and get this?! $17….SEVENTEEN DOLLARS. Look at that again. $17 for a soulmate. Yep, never getting married.

I even talked my mom into buying herself a pair. And she just couldn’t put them back because of how comfortable they were. I totally sold her on the idea that they can match just everything! (Her pair not online, sorry!)

BUT THESE BABIES ARE MINE!!!!

HERE they are. I like them because they are scrunchy and form fitting.

Don’t like my pair? I’ve found you others!!!

Women’s Odell Flats HERE

Leopard Trina Loafers HERE

 

Sorry this picture is so blurry. BUT LOOK AT THE CUTE BOW!
Sam and Libby Chelsea Bow HERE

Madeline Flats (Model #2) HERE

So you look at my picture and say, yeah Molly those look okay, but why do I want these? Because friend, all. the. cool. people. are. doing. it. I’ve found similar clothing items all from Target (because…bargains), they are having a special deal going on!! Please know these are not exact. However,  spend $50, get FREE shipping. FREE RETURNS. AND BUY ONE GET ONE 50% OFF CLOTHING, SHOES, AND ACCESSORIES!!!!

 Ashley Olson has paired hers with a leather jacket, white shirt, and distressed jeans.

Black leather jacket HERE
A White blouse HERE
Cute distressed jeans HERE
Similar black tote HERE

Sheaffer over at Pinterest Told Me To has hers paired with a brown/cognac leather jacket and stripped dress.

Cream Stripe Dress HERE
Juniors Floor Length Stripe Dress HERE
 Leather Jacket HERE (select Cognac)
Gold Jewelry that would look great with Cognac HERE

Shay over at Mix and Match Family has hers paid will rolled-up jeans, and a buffalo check shirt. She always says Leopard is a neutral. I totally agree!! How else would it go with everything??

Similar plaid tunic HERE
Light roll-up jeans HERE

Random Pinterest model #1 has hers with just a regular ol’ sweatshirt and jeans.

Similar color pull-over sweater HERE
Essential Jeans HERE
Leopard print sunglasses HERE (I had to!!!)
Black stiff tote HERE

 Random Pinterest model #2 has hers with a white blouse, and red jeans.

Red leggings HERE
Flowy White blouse HERE
White statement Pearl Necklace HERE
Women’s Leopard Flats HERE
Love your pairing with the leopard belt, model #2. Well done.

Radom Pinterest model #3 is looking comfy and casual with blue shorts, a plain black shirt, and a statement necklace. And a delicious looking drink, whatever it is.  

Blue shorts (on clearance) HERE
Simple black blouse HERE
Statement necklace HERE

And cute Pinterest model #4 has her black leggings and long red coat. Cozy!!!

 Black leggings/skinny jeans HERE
Red Coat HERE
Women’s Red Jacket (Check out the dress underneath) HERE
 Paired With Black Jeans HERE
Similar Black Purse HERE

AND PEOPLE! You can’t let this adorable little girl show you up??? Get. The. Flats. TODAY! You won’t be disappointed.

Here are more options and color combinations thrown together for you:

Happy Shopping! Live on, leopard!