{Leap Year 2012: Deals & Steals}

Happy Leap Year friends!! Every four years we celebrate a Leap Year and add an extra day to the end of February to "keep the calendar year in balance". Every four years stores & restaurants offer some pretty great deals and steals to celebrate this day.


I don't know about you, but I just appreciate the extra day to shop!
Besides, when is a wrong time to eat a free Subway cookie?

If you celebrate a birthday today, I wish you the happiest......you are definitely staying young aging every four years, wink, wink:)

asos is offering a discount of up to 29%

Google Music Android Market is offering 29 different albums for $2.99 each!

The Body Shop is offering an additional 29% discount (LOVE this store!)

If you "like" Einsteins Bagels Facebook page, buy a sandwich, get one free! 

Caribou Coffee, buy one get one free!

Dockers is offering an extra 29% discount today!

Get a free cookie from Subway today with any purchase!

Zappos is allowing you until next Leap Year to return purchases made today!

If you purchase on 2/29 of a Leap Year, then you have until 2/29 the following Leap Year to return those orders. That's four whole years! Woot!

{Venir à Paris: Come to Paris}

Good morning Sweets!

I've been hard at work behind the scenes "putting my two cents" into a pretty fantabulistic project with my super talented daughter Chloe.

An exciting reveal will be heading your way soon, guaranteed to make you smile!

In the meantime, run away with me to one of my Bucket List destinations......Paris! 

l  l   l  l   l  l  

{6 Grocery Store Phone Apps}

When I was a bit younger, grocery shopping really didn't seem to bother me all that much. C'Mon, let's face it.....it's a form of shopping.

It seems the older I get, the less time I have to dedicate to roaming up and down grocery store aisles reading every label and comparing prices. Who has time to look through each and every circular, hunting down the weeks best bargains? I definitely have adopted the "get in and get er done" attitude.

If you are like me, always in a rush, and most certainly have your cell phone attached to your hip, these grocery store phone apps could be just what the doctor ordered.

Not only are most free, they are proving to be both time and lifesavers!!

Ziplist will help you create shopping lists. You can even scan the bar codes of products to add them to your list. You can sync up with the lists of family members or significant others who have the same app.

Buying food that's in season and locally grown will be easier on your budget. Check out Locavore, a free app that'll help you find local, in-season food.

If you want the 411 on deals are going on in supermarkets, discount stores, and pharmacies, this free app called Grocery Pal will show you where the sales items are.

Green Grocer ($5) is a grocery shopping app with a twist. Not only do you create shopping lists, but once you tick them off your list, all you do is shake your phone and the items you haven't picked up will move to the top.

Instead of clipping coupons, download the free Coupon Sherpa app to find coupons. When you're checking out your groceries, the app will display the bar code that the cashier can scan to give you the discount.

With this free Apples2Oranges app, you can compare the prices of two products to see which one gives you the most for your money.

{Twitter Tuesday: Happy Interior Blog}

It's Twitter Tuesday Time!

Every other Tuesday, I will be showcasing one of my amazing Twitter friends on my blog!
I've been so fortunate to have met some really incredible and talented people since I began blogging. 

Twitter Tuesday  is a fabulous way to meet new bloggers and visit some amazing new blog sites. 

If you would like a chance to be featured on Twitter Tuesday, it's easy......

Just click on the "Twitter" button in my right sidebar, and we will be instantly connected as Twitter friends.  Let's chat and get to know each other:)

I have some really great "Tweet Buddies" and can't wait to meet more! 

My friends are your friends :)

February 21. 2012

Twitter Tuesday, brought to you by:Happy Interior Blog

I am always on the lookout for blogs that spark my interest for originality, great content and fabulous photos. I was so incredibly thrilled the day I spotted Igor @ Happy Interior Blog!!

His blog has most definitely become one of my daily reads and I cannot wait to see what he has up his sleeve with each new post! Igor has an awesome sense of decorating style, and you will never tire of his insightful posts, including a blog feature where he takes his readers on a once a week  "mini vacation" through his eyes.

If you are looking for a newcomer who is definitely being noticed FAST, Igor is your man!

Igor lives in Munich, Germany  and has been blogging at Happy Interior Blog for exactly four months today!!! 

His favorite colors are blue in all hues & warm yellows.

Igor's favorite time of day?  "crisp mornings in summer and cozy nights in winter"  

Igor's favorite way to relax?  "A cup of white tea, scented candles and favorite blogs :) " 

Let's learn more about my super sweet Twitter Tuesday Buddy!! 

What was your initial goal for your blog when you first began, and how has that changed today?
Igor:   The initial goal was to have my own platform to curate and create inspiring content on interior design and home decoration. It has changed to that extent that today I already have regular readers and a lot of dialogue on my blog which makes me incredibly happy.  

Where do you draw your decor inspiration from? 
Igor: From a variety of sources. I am reading a lot of interiors books, magazines, blogs. I draw inspiration from moods, everyday life, random sights. And Pinterest is the source for days when I feel uninspired.

Describe your personal or decorating style

Igor: Quite tricky. I love something I'd describe as urban cool chic. I like nordic inspirations with lots of white and pops of color. And I love a touch of ethnic inspired decoration. 

How many hours a day/week do you spend working on your blog?

Igor: 

I am blogging six times a week. That cumulates to a total of approximately 12 hours of writing and photoshopping a week. Not included is the researching for content. 

Where is your favorite place to shop?
Igor: 

No particular place. I love to discover those little tucked away interiors stores in the cities I travel to. And for practical reasons many online stores.

What "must haves" will you be adding to your Spring home decor?

Igor: For this spring I am planning on adding a design classic to my little home - the Hardoy Butterfly chair with a leather cover and maybe an ethnic rug.

What is your favorite piece of home decor, and why?
Igor: Currently, it is an art print by Berlin based illustrator Olaf Hajek. I bought it in a gallery and love its folk inspiration with vibrant colors. It reminds me of the work of Frida Kahlo.

Do you have any advice for new bloggers who are just getting started?

Igor: 

 

Network. That is crucial. Without networking I would hardly have any readers after a mere four months of blogging. And be consistent and blog regularly. And above all: love what you're blogging about.

If you have a career besides blogging, what do you do?

Igor: I am a senior consultant for digital marketing. 

Please share with us something we would never guess about you. IE; a favorite hobby, a talent, a quirky habit:

Igor:  I love good horror movies. Sometimes it's hard to find friends who'd like to join me to the cinema as they're not into nerve wracking movies.

Where did the name for your blog derive from?

 Igor: 

 From my personality and characteristics. I am a very optimistic, cheerful and happy person. So it was more than clear to me that my blog needs to be named Happy Interior Blog. 

Where do you see yourself in 2 years?
Igor: 

 Hopefully in the position to dedicate my full time to something in the sphere of interior design and home decoration. And with more time for blogging!

Thank you so much Igor, for allowing me to feature you as my Twitter Tuesday Friend:)

You can find Igor at:

~Happy Interior Lifestyle Blog~  

~Happy Interior Blog Twitter~ ~Happy Interior Blog Facebook Fan Page~  

  

*all photos courtesy of Igor*

{Blogger Link Love 02-18-12: Top Six on Saturday}

This edition of  Blogger Link Love is served up to you showcasing some awesome posts that caught my eye over the past week.  

Make sure you check them out and add these great blogs to your blogroll:)

If you would like your blog post to be featured on Blogger Link Love: Top Six on Saturday, please send the link to: colletteosuna@yahoo.com and I will run over and take a peeksie.
   

Happy Weekend Pretty People!!

1. Keiko Lynn:  Kate Spade Spring 2012

2. Suitcase Vignettes:  Dawn's interview with Smashion

3. Tricia's Take:  Tricia's big news.....a new baby!

4. The Citizen Rosebud:  Bella in Maximum Plaid

5. The Coveted: Jennine talks about life & balance

6. Kendi Everyday:  Leopard Bottom Jeans

{Win a $100 IKEA Gift Card}

I remember when the IKEA store opened up in my area a few years back. People were stone cold crazy excited. I even know of friends who took the day off work to celebrate and shop til they dropped. I was one of the calm few who decided to wait until "Christmas @ IKEA" was over to make my first visit.

(yes friends, I can restrain myself every so often!)

I instantly fell in love with how huge the store was and walked it's different levels of home yumminess. There isn't much you can't find at IKEA,(even a free breakfast). 

If you are a fan of clean lines, great prices and some do it yourself furniture building, IKEA is the store for you.

I have purchased everything at IKEA from bedroom furniture, living room bookcases, kitchen textiles, to artwork. It wasn't until recently that I realized that IKEA and I "broke up". 

Sad but true. It's been far too long since I've visited this store and perused it's never ending aisles of home decor love.

Has it been awhile since you have had IKEA on the brain as well?

 What could get your little fannies back into this store pronto?

How about a free $100 IKEA gift card?

Hurry, the contest ends on February 28th, so jump on it!

(No, I'm not referring to the Sugar Hill Gang smash hit of the 80's, however I do love this song!)

WIN A $100 IKEA Gift Card

Wouldn’t it be nice if you could know every time IKEA was going to have a special offer or activity online? And wouldn’t it be awesome to win a $100 IKEA gift card just for following us and retweeting a simple sentence?

Well today is your lucky day! :

1. Follow us on Twitter @IKEA _ShopOnline 

2. Retweet this message:

Follow @IKEA_ShopOnline and retweet this message to win a $100 IKEA gift card http://ow.ly/8LBnn #ikeashoponlinegc

And you will be entered to win a $100 IKEA Gift Card. Only one winner will be chosen.

Hurry! This contest ends February 28, 2012

Official Rules 

Privacy Policy 

{Tennis Anyone?}

1. Half Bezel Confidence Tennis Bracelet

2. Square & Round Diamond Tennis Bracelet

3. Solitaire Ring Link Tennis Bracelet

4. Classic 3 Prong Tennis Bracelet

Happy HuMpDaY friends! I hope everyone had a fantabulistic Valentine's Day filled with lots of love and new memories!

If a brand spanking new piece of jewelry was on your "I really hope he gets me this" list and he fell a little short, have no fear....sometimes the best gifts are the ones you give yourself!

I've always been a fan of tennis bracelets and these little Anjolee Jewelry numbers prove to be gorgeous pieces! In addition to tennis bracelets, Anjolee offers a humongous variety of bangle bracelets, gemstone bracelets & birthstone bracelets. There is definitely something for every jewelry lover in your life!

Not only are they "eyecatchers", but Anjolee allows you to customize your own jewelry!

If you are like me and are internet interactive, you will love the Anjolee super friendly website. You can chose from metal type, carat weight, gemstone color and diamond quality.

Did you ever receive a piece of jewelry you loved but was too long or not long enough? Those days are gone.....Anjolee even lets you select the length of your custom jewelry pieces!

  

I'm not too certain of the rules for tennis, but wearing one of these bracelets while playing could only bring you good luck:)

{ I Heart YOU}

via

Happy Love Day friends!! Today is the day that we celebrate "love". Who are you sharing your special day with? Do you have any plans with a "special someone"?

I'm happy to say that my New Years resolution has been very much coming true over the last month and a half, and I will be spending the evening with a very special man in my life:)

Love your husband, love your children, love your family and friends, and above all, today and everyday, love yourself.


I love each and every one of you, and I wish YOU the happiest of Valentines!

(You still have time to whip up a few of these sweet treats too!)

Orange Pecan Heart Waffles

Valentine's Day Coffee Cup Wrapper Printables

Cherry Vanilla Layer Cake

Valentine's Day Chex Mix

Red Velvet Cupcakes

{Blogger Link Love 02-11-12: Top Six on Saturday}

This edition of  Blogger Link Love is served up to you showcasing some awesome recipe posts that caught my eye over the past week.
Who isn't always on the hunt for a new recipe? I know I am....these are a few recipe blogs I "stalk on the regular". 

Make sure you check them out and add these great blogs to your blogroll:)

If you would like your blog post to be featured on Blogger Link Love: Top Six on Saturday, please send the link to: colletteosuna@yahoo.com and I will run over and take a peeksie.

Thank you sooooo much for all of your fab emails to be featured on "Blogger Link Love". Some weeks are theme based, so don't despair if your blog link doesn't appear right away......keep em' coming sweets!

   

Happy Weekend Pretty People!!

1. Tartelette:  Gluten Free Apple Cinnamon Doughnuts

2. Smitten Kitchen:  Cheddar, Beer & Mustard Pull Apart Bread

3. Baking Bites:  Dark Chocolate Mocha Truffle

4. 52 Cupcakes:  Bobby Flays Peanut Butter Buttercream Cupcakes

5. 101 Cookbooks: Cottage Pancakes

6. Simply Recipes:  Kale with Sausage & White Beans