let it BURN...

(via)

 

I am such a candle burner especially in the fall and winter. There is something so warming, calming and ritualistic about coming home and lightening a candle at the end of a long day.

 

I came across this candle at my local TJ Maxx and decided I would try it because 1. the packaging was a very sleek black 2. I have had this recent obsession with the smell of fresh tobacco- not that we are smokers (or chewers) I just love the smell and 3.it made me think of standing out in the field on a fall day. Boy what a treasure I found. Apparently this candle yields from a collaboration between Neiman Marcus and Ambercrombie & Fitch. It has notes of cheery bark, plum, teakwood, mahogany, sweet tobacco, amber. It's earthy but sweet, a good change from my normal fall pumpkin fare.  

 

If you come across it (as you know TJ Maxx is always hit or miss), it's worth a try!

 

This is defiantly our fall burn.

 

xoxo,

Ronita

 



{Neiman Marcus+Target}

Target has done it again.

They have partnered with 24 legendary designers to bring over 50 gifts to their store.

Check out the partnership and gift guide collection here.

Available in stores tomorrow, December 1st, these are items you don't want to miss.

 

The designer I love the most is none other than Tracy Reese.

Her prints are beautiful.

I would love to add the dessert plates to my plate collection.

 

Tracy Reese Dessert Plates $39.99 (set of 4)

Tracy Reese Blouse $79.99

 

Happy Shopping

 

xoxo,

Ronita

{holiday wishlist}

Wow! 

Thanksgiving is over like that and we are completely into the Christmas season! The malls are packed and all the stores are deep into Black Friday/Cyber Monday marketing.

There are just a few things on my list this year and they are of course all nice to haves and not have to haves. 

I feel so truly blessed for all the things have and know the true meaning of the season!

With that being said here is my nice to haves wish list....

NIKE shoes / Minnetonka fringe booties, $90 / Gold monogrammed ring / Sterling silver bangle / 2013 Rifle Cities Calendar / Philips Anodised Aluminium Juicer HR1861/00, $115 / Madam President Planner (Pre-order for 2013 planner) / Jolly Hollydays Gift / 2012-2013 myAgenda Desktop / Fiery Lily and Rose Flowers

Monogrammed bracelet and ring to match my necklace, a nice mommy planner, this beautiful cities calendar from Rifle Paper Co., a juicer (for the family of course), another year in my flower CSA--I loved cutting flowers and making bouquets throughout the year, Minnetonka moccasin boots, LUSH!!!!--Jolly, bitters and bar syrups for my new found love of cocktail making, and these very beautiful Liberty of London Nikes for all the running I'm going to be doing this year :)

What's on your wish list?

Stay tuned for my curated gift guides for everyone on your list!

xoxo,

Ronita

{2 of my Favorites: Solange and Madewell}

Two of my favorites Solange and Madewell.

I am so happy they did this partnership.

She is one of my favorite fashionistas. I love her style!

xoxo,

Ronita

{Hidden Treasures Cincinnati: The Glass Barn}

Calling all brides, dinner hostess, party planners and hoarders alike..this is a place you don't want to miss.

Last week I had the afternoon off and went to a couple places in Reading, Ohio. One of the places I visited I consider a hidden gem and reminds me of my fun and frugal childhood with my lovely mother. We would wake up on Saturdays, get all our housework done and hit the road for a day of shopping.  The Glass Barn is one of the places I will never forget.

The Glass Barn.

 It's like a glass warehouse with super discounted glassware, stoneware, dishware, planters and other knick knacks. If you visit, don't forget to take your allergy pill- there is a ton of dust...

I came across these very fun kitschy strawberry juice glasses.

...and these fun and nostalgic milk glasses which were only $.99 each.

I bought four of the milk glasses and four of these beauties.

perfect for a cold beer, lemonade, iced tea, water, or for my CSA flowers...

(via)

There are 3 buildings that make up this treasure trove, the glass building, annex- which houses tons of knick knacks, I like getting my tissue paper (which I made the below 4th of July tissue paper flowers out of) and gift bags from here and then a hardware store that's fully stocked.

Does your city have hidden gems?

xoxo,

Ronita

HOLIDAY SPARKLE: I LOVE GLITTER AND SPARKLE

All That Glitters is GOLD by mrsrjdean featuring glitter shoes

Dorothy Perkins glitter flat shoes, £15
TOMS glitter shoes, $54
Kate Spade metallic bag, $95
J Crew vintage looking jewelry, $50
J Crew stackable jewelry, $38
Dolce & Gabbana The One Lace Edition Eau De Parfum, $75
SEPHORA by OPI Glitter and Sparkle Four Piece Full Size Nail Colour..., $28
Switchboard Notepad, $12
Lush Lustre Dust « Musings of a Muse, £10

Here are my sparkly picks for the holidays!!!

xoxo,

Ronita

These ladies are FIERCE!!!! Must Watch series!!!

Episode 1: $10 Meal Time from Food Heaven Made Easy on Vimeo.

Episode 2: Herbal Healing from Food Heaven Made Easy on Vimeo.

Episode 3: Seasonal Grub from Food Heaven Made Easy on Vimeo.

They inspire me! I love when I come in contact with like minded individuals!! Episode 3 talks about CSAs, which I talked about in a previous post this week.

If you missed it click here.

Go ladies! To learn more about them check out their website: http://www.foodheavenmadeeasy.com/

Happy. Healthy Cooking

xoxo,

Ronita

Geek Alert: Changing Up my Look

I'm in the mood for a change and what easier way than to get a different shaped pair of glasses. These looks inspire me. Big, dorky, fun yet chic!

(via)

Check out some of my other inspirations, here.

Can't wait to show you what I pick!

xoxo,

Ronita

Back to School: Boys Fall Fashion

(all photos via)

Suspenders, check. Grandpa sweater, check. Slim jeans, check.

What eye candy.

My big boy starts his first day of Kindergarten next Thursday.

I have gotten most of Tre's back to school shopping done. These pictures are such inspiration!

I still need to get him a  hip scarf and a dapper coat.

What key pieces are you purchasing for the Fall/Back to School?

xoxo,

Ronita

Walking on Sunshine

Oh how I loved these shoes when I first saw them this past Spring at ALDO! African inspired prints have been just catching my eye lately. I knew they were fabulous but me and heels aren't always the best of friends! I thought to myself..."man I wish they made them in flats"...fast forward three weeks ago...

I happened to be in the mall and saw a RED BIG Clearance sign.

I said what the heck let me check to see what they have....

HELLO!!!! and on sale for $15.00 I was thrilled!!! Same print but flat!!

LOVE LOVE LOVE them!

xoxo,

Ronita

 

 

 

Anthro Wedding

Although I am not wedding planning anymore, I still find my eyes drawn to wedding fashion.

Feb 14th,  Anthropologie  will debut their wedding line.

I know it will be delicate and feminine with hints of vintage chic...

We will have to wait and see.

xoxo,

Ronita

Macy's, Target, "The Mall" they are not...

People have always told me I am anything but ordinary. I have ideas as to how life should be fun, super adventurous and anything but ordinary. This year I want that to show through my holiday gift giving. Instead of shopping the ordinary mall fare I will be hitting up some of my favorite online shops for some ideas gifts perfect to please everyone on my list!!

Here are my top 5 fab holiday gift sites:

Aphro Chic

Etsy.com

Lisa Leonard

The Farm Chicks

Renegade Handmade

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!

xoxo,

Ronita



Anthropologie Finds

After our St. Patty's Day happy hour, I asked the hubby to drop me off at Anthropologie. I wanted to witness their Spring line first hand. I so deeply love to take that store in space by space. There is so much detail in their visuals and the designs give me so many inspirations!! The trip around that store was sensational. As my hubby waited ever so patiently in the car, I took in all the nautical details, the ruffles, the jewels and of course that delicious smell. I usually end my trip in sale area to look for some fun baragains (my budget only allows for sale items to be purchased here usually).

 I couldn't have left empty handed (my hubby would beg to differ) so here are some of my sweet deals!!!

Weathered Wharf Measuring Spoons

These will be perfect for all the baking I do!! I usually always have trouble finding the right spoon.

 

TokyoMilk Petite Perfume Solide

This smells so feminine and will fit perfectly in my purse during the Spring. I also purchased the Satsuma from this line and it will be perfect for Summer!!

Jeweler's Knob

I purchased 4 of these beauties and one that had no match. My latest passion has been repurposing furniture. I will reveal my first project soon!!

And last but not least a fun pair of slacks noir for work!!

Needless to say. I had a great time and truly enjoyed my Anthro getaway!!

xoxo

Ronita

RJD's 2009 Top Beauty Products

(image: google search)

As the year comes to a close I will begin to purge many things out of my life, one being the over abundance of beauty products that somehow accumulate over the year. These are products that people swear by and I just have to try (but fail me) or products that marketing and brand managers demand I purchase. None the less they accumulate into what is known by many women all over the world as the beauty product depository, used once twice, and then never picked up again. Despite all the products that I end up recycling, throwing out if expired, or gifting to a girlfriend...I have compiled a list of products I just can't live without.

1. Vaseline

2. Cetaphil Face Wash

3. Crest White Strips

4. Pantene Relaxed and Natural Shampoo and Conditioner

5. Kinky Curly Knot Today and Curling Custard (I want to try Hair Rules' Curling System)

6. Corioliss Flat Iron

7. Maybelline Mascara in Black

8. Clinique's Stay Matte Sheer Pressed Powder in 11 Stay Brandy

9. Victoria's Secret Beauty Rush Lip Gloss

10. OPI Nail Laquers

11. LUSH Ocean Salt Scrub and Massage Bars

12. Lancome Hypnose or Vera Wang Princess Eau De Toilette

12. Water and a good night's rest

What are your beauty product must haves?

xoxo

Ronita

I have been accepted into the club...

Every year my husband's family have taken a family trip to the Edinburgh Premium Outlets in Indiana. Every year I have tried to squeeze myself into the backseat but have been unsuccessful. Between either being pregnant or having a newborn to care for, I was unable to make the trip. Well this year there is nothing standing in my way!!! I can't wait to spend all day with them tomorrow...bargain shopping (one of my fav past times)!! I have printed off the mall map, signed up for coupons, and highlighted all the stores I have to hit.. J.Crew, Carter's, The Children's Place, Coach, Banana Republic, GAP...just to name a few!!

It's almost Christmas!!
xoxo
Ronita

It's That Time of Year!!!

Art and Craft Holiday Markets


I am so excited that the art and craft holiday markets have arrived. I love going and seeing what homemade goodies I can take home and also get great ideas for DIY projects of my own! This weekend will kick off all my holiday fun! I have to make my map so I can hit up all the good spots. This is a fun tradition my mom started with me when I was a little girl and I just haven't been able to get enough!! I called her yesterday to see if you was going to ride with me around the city Saturday to check out all the treasures...she said "of course, and I can't wait." Most markets you will find hosted by your local churches, but they are everywhere! There is something so nostalgic about sipping on a warm cup of wassil or cocoa and sorting through homemade ornaments and wreaths, tasting fresh homemade fudge, and yummy cookies!!

First STOP: St. Vincent Ferrer Church (right across the field from my house)

Check out your local calender for a list of events in your area!

Here is a link for Cincinnati markets:

http://www.cincinnatiusa.com/Calendar/event.asp?ProdID=696

Have fun!!
xoxo,
Ronita

It's here..and I'm so EXCITED!!!!

The grande opening of H&M Cincinnati was today!! Although I couldn't make it because of other obligations...I will def be in the house tomorrow... I will make it a lunch date!!!

xoxo
Ronita

"Girl where did you get that, it is amazing?"...Trader Joe's...Trader Who?

One of my absolute favorite things to do is cook and entertain family and friends. I sometimes can go a little overboard when planning gatherings, and have been known to plan kid's birthday parties that are a bit over the top. I'm told all the time "they will not remember when they are older"- but who cares...I will (that's what cameras are for...)!!!

Well a little over a year ago I stumbled upon a super fantastic store that I just have to share with you...my readers. TRADER JOE's has the most delicious food and wine selection I have ever seen and to top it all off ....the prices are unbelievable!! I can do my normal weekday shopping and find just what I need and I can plan my party menu right in the middle of the store. If you have a Trader Joe's close to you I would challenge you to take a browse...and even sample what they have to offer...their coffee is fantastic and goodness there desserts are to die for... Check out my top 10 lists!! (I should own stock in this store)

Everyday Deans: Everyday Favs

1. OJ- $1.99- it is the best OJ my Mr. D has said he tasted and for the price we keep it stocked.


2. Nonfat French Vanilla Yogurt- $2.99 and Praline Cluster granola-$2.49 - the boys love this yogurt and beg for the granola, it's a healthy snack on the weekends


3. Eggs-$.99- for all my baking of course


4. Low Fat String Cheese- easy to grab on the go, both the boys and I love it!


5. Honey Nut O's- their version of Honey Nut ...other the popular brand...I say these taste better and come at a better price!!


6. Almond Milk- for those of us that can't tolerate the lactose


7. Chicken Broth- the base to many meals


8. Breakfast Bars- on those busy days


9. Fruit- they have an awesome selections of fruit and veggies


10. Frozen Foods- I love all their frozen veggies, the spinach and broccoli are awesome! I even love their frozen burritos, rice, seafood, pizzas, waffles, fruit for smoothies. I love it all!

Downhome With The Deans: Entertaining

1. Blood Orange Italian Soda


2. Beer- All their beer is amazing. They sell some name brand but many TJ's brands that are delicious. Currently we like the Pumpkin Lager!!!


3. Wine- they have a large selection of champagne and wine that range from 2 Buck Chuck to bottles over $50!!


4. Spinach Dip and pita chips- this is in the frozen aisle and is great to have on hand for those unexpected guest. (Note: Their frozen aisle have tons of prepared appetizers for any party)


5. Goddess Salad dressing- It's a mix, I would say, between Ranch and Italian...it is so delicious just by itself on bag salad


6. Premium Ice cream- enough said


7. Desserts/Breads- their dessert table is always a hit, from their apple pie to their small dessert assortment. I love their french bread to make all my different bruschetta recipes.


8. Hummus- I love hummus and it is great for parties!!!


9. Corn Salsa- spicy and sweet, a very unexpected favorite!!


10. Popcorn- Kettle Corn/ Olive Oil- Can you say movie night!
    

Right now, for a limited time, they have all their Fall foods in store. I recommend the pumpkin bread mix, pumpkin butter, apple bread mix, pumpkin pancake mix, beer bread mix, stuffing, and so much more...

(picture taken from TJ's website)

Find the store nearest you, I promise you will LOVE it: http://www.traderjoes.com/static/about_us.html

ENJOY!
xoxo,
Ronita