Hope for Oklahoma

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Hi friends! We are so happy to be participating in this great cause. Like so many of you we were stunned by the devastation caused by the tornados. You can't help but feel so absolutely helpless in situations like this. Right away our experience with Hurricane Sandy came flashing back...and those aren't good feelings to conjure up. But what immediately followed those feelings were our memories of  all the kind souls who stepped in to give whatever help they could to those in need. We had never experienced such an outpouring of generosity first hand. So it goes without saying that we wanted to do whatever we could to return the favor.
When our friend Heather contacted us about this auction she was putting together we jumped at the chance to pitch in. Just like it was here in Jersey, the need for immediate funds and supplies in Oklahoma is crucial. So this auction, featuring original art and handmade crafts from tons of fab artists, will get under way immediately. It will run Monday the 27th through Friday the 31st and we're hoping that word spreads so we can get as many art and craft lovers bidding as humanly possible. We've contributed a starter collection of our artwork as well as a tiny Keep Calm And Have A Cupcake book of inspirational quotes.
Heather, the gal running the auction, lives in close proximity to the tornado affected area and will be delivering the proceeds from the auction directly into the hands of those who need it most. So please do what you can...Like the designated Facebook page, Share it with your friends, and by all means Bid away on some fabulous artwork! So many friends of ours from the art and blog community have contributed and we know there will be some amazing stuff on the auction block this week. 
The great people of Oklahoma need help desperately right now, and we're confident that our community will do whatever they can to be there for them. 

Below are our pieces that will be up for auction this week:



"Ferris Wheel" (retail value 28.00)
8x10 matted ready to frame print fits 11x14 frame
Living at the Jersey Shore, we see our share of ferris wheels. Glimmering on the horizon, serving as beacons of fun and symbols of magical memories by the sea. 



"Old Fashioned Desserts" (retail value 28.00)
8x10 matted ready to frame print fits 11x14 frame
This painting was inspired by the perfectly pastel toned illustrations from vintage recipe books, and our love for classic sweets, still baked every day in authentic vintage style bakeries. 



"Cupcakes" (retail value 28.00)
 8x10 matted ready to frame print fits 11x14 frame.
The undeniable classic dessert. Every baking fan's favorite and our long time artistic muse. Ask anyone...life is so much sweeter with Cupcakes! 





"Keep Calm And Have A Cupcake, Sweet Little Thoughts on Staying Sane" book (retail value 5.95)
Yummy mini gift book features a hardcover binding and pink-and-white dust jacket. Keep the 24K gold-plated cupcake charm on the ribbon bookmark or wear it on a bracelet.



These four items will be up for auction with a low opening bid. What a great time to pick up some art for you, or a friend while also getting to help those in dire need. 

The auction takes place right there on the Hope for Oklahoma Facebook page.

 Auction start time is Monday, May 27th at 7pm CST. The end time is Friday, May 31st at 7pm CST.

There is a preview of some of the fantastic artwork but keep in mind that it's only a preview. There will be so much more when the auction goes live.
Again, Share and Like, and bid if you can...tell your friends...whatever is possible for you. We're so honored to have such wonderful giving friends! Thanks so much for reading and taking part!

xo, Jenny & Aaron




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Beach House in Brazil

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This beach house in the resort town of  Búzios in Brazil 
 is looking pretty good to me.
Stunning views of the sea from just about every window ...  
plenty of spots to relax and take it all in.
I love the simple bathroom design with the twin basins ~
there's plenty of space to add your own display flourishes.
The outdoor area provides the perfect backdrop
for a tasty alfresco lunch!

photographed by andre nazareth for casa, food image
 
Melissah xox 


Check out Coastal Style on Pinterest

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Travel Tips Packing List

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When you travel there is so much to think about that often times you forget some items that can affect your traveling experience in a big way once you reach your destination. It is always a good idea to make a thorough list before you travel so you will be well prepared once you arrive to your final place of rest. Traveling is always best enjoyed when your mind is at peace.

Below is a list of common suggested travel necessities, as well as reminders for those often forgettable travel items.

NOTE: Check with your airline regarding what you can carry on the plane as new rules and regulations change. Also, check the weather forecast for your destination, as well as local custom for clothing guidelines. For your convenience, several seasonal and vacation specific items are recommended on this list. Remember, travel experts always advise to pack light.


Don't forget to pack your travel insurance policy! 


General travel tips:


Pack heavy items, such as shoes and toiletry kits, before the more delicate ones. Place them along the suitcase's spine to balance weight at the bottom.
To reduce wrinkling, turn jackets inside out and fold them in half with tissue paper or dry-cleaning bags. Layering plastic bags or tissue between clothes also helps prevent wrinkles.
Hang clothing in the bathroom while showering to steam out wrinkles.
Line the bottom of your suitcase with your trousers and let the legs hang over the outside edge of the suitcase. Then pack the rest of your travel gear with the lighter materials on top. Wrap trouser legs over the pile; they'll keep their crease.
Stuff socks and rolled-up belts into shoes to save space.
Take along plastic bags for laundry or wet swimsuits.
Bring an empty, soft bag for souvenirs.



Travel Packing List

Clothing


Belt
Hat
Shirts
Shorts
Suit & Tie
Dress/Skirt
Pants
T-shirts
Shoes/Sandals
Socks
Swim Suit
Underwear



Clothing for Cold Weather


Gloves
Sweater
Winter Hat
Winter Jacket
Silk or other long underpants, t-shirts or camisoles



For carrying money and important documents


Fanny Pack
Purse
Money Belt
Wallet
Security pouch for valuable documents



Money and important documents


Cash
Travelers Checks
Credit Cards
CSA Plan Documents
Drivers License
ID Card
Passport
Vaccination Certificate
Visa



Tickets


Airline
Bus / Train
Cruise Ship
Theatre



Health & Hygiene


Antacid/Laxatives
Aspirin/Pain Relievers
Dental Floss
Deodorant
Feminine Hygiene
First Aid Kit
Hair Brush/Comb
Insect Repellent
Lip Balm
Moisturizer
Sun Screen
Vitamins
Motion Sickness Tablets
Water Purifying Tablets
Toothbrush & Toothpaste
Shampoo & Conditioner
Allergy Pills (anti-histamines)
Nail Clippers (pack in suitcase, not in carry-on baggage)
Shaving Equipment (disposable razors OK to carry-on)
Hairspray and any other styling products



Books


Guidebook
Phrase Book
Magazine
Novel



Miscellaneous


Backpack
Batteries
Binoculars
Compass
Flashlight
Handkerchief
Maps
Passport Pictures
Photo Equipment
Plastic Bags
Raincoat
Sewing Kit
Sunglasses
Umbrella
Wall Socket Adapter
Watch
Portable CD/Cassette Player
Bungee Cords/Rubber Bands
Extra Glasses/Contact Lenses
Swiss Army Knife (pack in suitcase, not in carry-on baggage)

Don't forget to take with you your most important necessities; a smile, an open-mind and a loving attitude.

Happy Travels & Be Blessed!


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Tips for Safe and Secure Holiday Travel

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The holidays are always the best times of the year for families to gather together for celebrations. If you have to travel to be with family this holiday season, there are some safety tips that you should consider.

· Traveling by Air

First, if you are traveling by air, it is best to get in touch with your travel agent as early as you can. Booking your flight well ahead of time lets you secure cheap airline tickets. Same thing goes for hotel accommodations and rental cars.

Again, if you're flying, it would be best if you can pack lightly. There are airlines that have special restrictions for holiday travelers and they only allow one-carry-on bag per passenger. If you have to bring a lot of stuff like gifts, it would be a good idea to have them shipped ahead to your destination.

· Keep your home safe.

On the day of your flight, make sure that your home is well secured. Check that all windows and doors are locked. Set the alarm and some lights on timers.

· Leave early.

Leave at least three hours early, that way you will not have to feel rushed in case you encounter some holiday traffic on the road.

Check in early at the airport. Due to the expected large number of holiday travelers, you should also expect that there will be traffic at the airport security checkpoint lines.

If you are bringing the gifts with you, do not wrap them up. They will have to be unwrapped anyways when you reach the security checkpoint.

· Stay positive.

Try to stay positive. Delays are natural, so you might as well expect them and be prepared. Bring extra snack and some entertainment tools such as books, magazines, and gadgets. You do not want to be bored, especially if you have kids with you.

· Road travel

If you are driving to your destination the first thing that you should do is to make sure that your vehicle is in good running condition. You do not want to get stuck on the side of the road especially during the cold holiday season. Have your car mechanic check the vehicle to ensure that you and your family will reach your destination sound and safe.

Do not forget to bring a first-aid kit, blankets, flashlights, snacks, drinking water, jumper cables and flares. It is better to be prepared for road emergencies.

Drive carefully and patiently, there will be lots of people like you who will be traveling for the holidays, so, chances are there will be heavy traffic in most major highways.

If you have children with you, try to keep the journey as pleasant as possible. Kids have the tendency to be easily bored and long road trips are not their scene. Make sure they have their favorite toys with them and encourage singing and storytelling to pass the time.

Finally, once you reach your destination, say a little prayer of gratitude. Arriving safely is enough to have an enjoyable holiday with your family.

If you're looking for an unforgettable experience where these tips would come in handy try to do one of those Grand Canyon jeep tours. We learned a thing or two on this trip that I'm sharing with you now.

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