A Green Home Makeover + A Giveaway

Monday, October 5, 2015

This site has affiliate links and sponsored content. Read my Disclosure Policy.



I love the color scheme of the inside of our house. It's mostly browns and blues but I love the relaxing sense I get from any kind of green so I wanted to add some decorative touches throughout the house.   It was actually pretty easy.








These fun gems are from Hang Collections, where you get to pick out a set and then choose from a handful of different options to arrange them when you hang. Part of the fun with decorating is figuring out how to arrange stuff so this made it even more fun with even more options.  The instructions made it pretty easy to follow step by step for every single suggested arrangement.   They even gave you measuring tape and the hardware you need.   After rearranging a bit, I decided that we had the perfect setup for the blank wall in our office. The office is where I sit to do some blogging after work and I sometimes spin around in my chair and stare at the wall when I'm having writer's block. Now I get to stare at this totally zen set of canvas art.






This was the arrangement we chose. There's a sale going on right now over at Hang Collections - $99 + $119 and there's free shipping.   There are plenty of videos on their website to help you hang your quad pack and there are 12 collections to choose from!







Next, I got some succulents from The Succulent Source. The Succulent Source is a family owned business from California that specializes in Wedding Succulents, which by the way are a brilliant idea.  





They sent me some gorgeous little succulents and I went to the Dollar Tree and got some pots for them.  



Succulents are so modern looking versus your typical houseplant so I was excited to spice up different rooms in the house with them.




I arranged several in a tray for the kitchen counter.




I love how they look on our living room table too!




And I even added some to the reading nook in the office.











And one of you will get a collection of your choice from Hang Collections! a Rafflecopter giveaway
 photo ScreenShot2014-06-25at102225PM_zps4fdda517.png


7 Pieces for Your Fall Wardrobe





Fall is a great time of year for fashion because the weather allows you to combine pieces from different seasons to layer together for the perfect look.  But let's take a look at specific pieces that you should add to your wardrobe when you build it up for Fall.

|1| Boot Socks
Boot socks are a great way to layer and keep your legs warm especially if you put them on over leggings.  They look great just peeking over the tops of your boots. Oh, and they are SUPER comfy!
|2| Sweater Dress
Sweater dresses are a must have in the Fall since summer dresses no longer are appropriate.  Sweater dresses are cozy, comfy, and look great with my favorite fall piece - BOOTS!


|3| A Leather Jacket
Leather jackets give a nice edgy look to almost any outfit.  They also keep your warm when it gets chilly and you can take it off and still look fine with your outfit underneath.  Stick to a neutral color jacket that goes with lots of different options from your closet.
|4| Leopard Accessories
Leopard is my favorite print ever and it looks great in Fall because it has neutral tones.
|5| Chambray Blouse
A chambray blouse is perfect for fall and goes good with beige tones.  You can button it up or keep it open and layer it.

|6| A Scarf
Scarves are perfect for keeping warm in the cooler air but they also look great as a layering piece especially if you wear a leather jacket.
|7| Denim Jacket
Once again, great for layering and it looks so cute!



Which of these pieces will you add to your wardrobe for Fall?
 photo ScreenShot2014-06-25at102225PM_zps4fdda517.png


So I Met Steve-O + 5 Reasons Why You Should Too!

Sunday, October 4, 2015






So if you followed me on social media last week you may have seen my posts about Steve-O!! That's right - the man from Jackass fame himself.   By the way - Jackass is 15 years old. Meaning I was 15 when I first started watching it. WOW! Anyways, Steve-O came to Harrisburg Comedy Zone on October 1st and the cost was just $25 which was pretty cool because it made it possible for even those of us on a budget to go see him.   


Let me start off by saying I'm not really a "fan girl" of any celebrity but when I genuinely like and support a person it's because despite being entertaining - I like the person they are behind the scenes.   I love that Steve-O has turned his life around and I support him every step of the way.  I especially love how down to earth he is and he's definitely a celeb I have a lot in common with.

So I figured since I always give advice on this blog I'd give you some advice on why you should totally go see him if you ever have the chance. It's SO worth it!


 


|1. He Loves His Fans|
Seriously, he said it a million times but he really means it.  He knows that it's his fans and supporters that have got him where he is today and if you search his name on Twitter you will see lots of random fans that saw him on the streets, asked for a photo and got one.  He takes the time to acknowledge people that recognize him in public which is pretty cool considering the fact that it could get old fast when you can't even go to the grocery store without being pointed out.  Steve-O also responds to people's tweets.    

But that's not all - Steve-O loves his fans so much that at EVERY show he guarantees he will take a photo (with his camera) with each of his fans.   And immediately after the show he uploads the photos to his website under Audience Photos

Another really cool thing is that I bought tickets to his show back in August and would tweet him every now and then acknowleding his Seaworld antics.  The week of his show I sent him two specific tweets you will see below:  

So after we got in line, got autographs and some merch we started to walk away and he finally got a look at me (it was definitely sensory overload for him that night since he went right from the stage to start meeting everyone) he said "Hey, I know you from Twitter!".  I was totally stoked! As a blogger I've been connected to some big brands and a few celebs but none that I adore as much as him so I was so excited to know he saw my tweets and recognized me.  I also try not to be annoying to people on Twitter but I have so many questions for people (especially after I read their books!) so I hope he doesn't think I'm obnoxious!

|2. He's Been Through Hell and Back|
Because I respect the work he put into his book and telling his story I will not spoil it but I really really do recommend you buy his book and read it.  He literally has went through hell and survived, from drugs and losing his mom  to alcohol and toxic people in his life.  His book - Professional Idiot: A Memoir is pretty amazing.  I read it in 2 days.  Get it! Read it!  You'll understand him as a person so much better. 


|3. He Loves Animals and Hates Seaworld|
Not only is Steve-O a vegan but he has done several campaigns for PETA . He's also openly spoke out against Seaworld and whales in captivity, which if you remember my post about why I won't ever set foot in Seaworld again is a huge cause in my life.  I hope that by the time I leave this Earth, something major changes which animals being held in captivity and it's so refreshing to hear a celebrity back that cause too!     

So yeah, anyways I was stoked that we have that in common and when he mentioned Seaworld stuff on stage I clapped so darn loud! Also, Steve-O loves his doggies and of course me being the crazy chihuahua lady I am loves that about him. Like I said - he's so down to earth!
Photo c/o Steve-O's website

|4.  He's Hilarious|
While he does have some raunchy jokes (which I enjoyed) I promise there's no puking and pooping on stage.   I know several people were assuming he would be wild and crazy but he has definitely toned that kind of stuff down. That being said he was still hilarious and even had a few AWESOME tricks he did at the end. Unlike a lot of people that tried to take photos and video of them I will NOT spoil it so trust me when I say you have to see him for yourself! 

|5.  He Needs The Money|
I mean he literally does need the money and he even told us that as a joke but it's pretty much because of his last stunt where he climbed to the top of a crane to protest Seaworld landed him in jail and with a HUGE bill for all of the ambulance, fire trucks, helicopter, and police that ended up on scene.   Maybe not the brightest move you may think , but whatever - it got the job done and spread awareness about what's going on at Seaworld for those that may not have known.  Anyways he has to pay the bill he received which is probably insane so come on - support the cause! 
Photo c/o Steve-O's website


 A Few Reminders for Steve-O's Shows: 
Comedians that do stand up do NOT appreciate being recorded by the audience during their show.  Not only does it spoil the show for future attendees but this is the way they make their money.  They are entertaining a live audience - NOT to be recorded.   Several people got called out for attempting to record him on their phone.  This is one of the times my zen side comes out when I say just live in the moment and enjoy watching him - don't try to be all sneaky and get photos. 

Also, you can see his future tour dates on his website here

Seeing Steve-O was definitely a bucket list item!  The only other thing that would complete my life is if I could get him to sign a Shammy blow up toy for me and somehow send it to me! Seriously though - my life would be complete. 

Steve-O's website has tons of awesome information and his social media channels are amazing! 

Have you ever seen Steve-O? If not, do you want to now that you read my recap? 









 photo ScreenShot2014-06-25at102225PM_zps4fdda517.png


My Week in Meals

Thursday, October 1, 2015




A photo posted by Ellen Ross (@ellenr886) on
Ratatouille Flatbread
A photo posted by Ellen Ross (@ellenr886) on
Creamy Penne with Chicken


A photo posted by Ellen Ross (@ellenr886) on


Oven Roasted Chicken, Asparagus, and Couscous


A photo posted by Ellen Ross (@ellenr886) on
Seared Steak with Cauliflower Mash


A photo posted by Ellen Ross (@ellenr886) on
Salmon with Green Beans, Tomatoes, and Potato Mash


Which is your fav?  Follow me on Instagram for daily uploads!
 photo ScreenShot2014-06-25at102225PM_zps4fdda517.png


Little Changes that Make A Big Difference in A Home

This site has affiliate links and sponsored content. Read my Disclosure Policy.




Ever since we moved into our house we have done little things here and there to make it nicer.  These little details actually make a big difference.  

Here are some examples:





































|Door Knobs|


It makes such a big difference doesn't it?  These are from Unhinge Hardware.  Unhinge is a great place to go to get hardware for your home and bath at the lowest price possible.  They also offer free shipping, next day delivery, and they have great customer service!   


|Curtains|
Adding curtains or window treatments to a room in your home can really complete the look and it gives you added privacy.


|Area Rugs|
Area Rugs can really spice up a room because they take away from the monotony of the solid floor.  They are a fun way to make a statement too.

|Flowers|
I love flowers on the outside of any home. They are very welcoming and give great curb appeal!



|Wall Decor|
Wall decorations don't have to be expensive.  Adding decals to any room makes a HUGE difference.


What little upgrades and changes have you made around your home?











 photo ScreenShot2014-06-25at102225PM_zps4fdda517.png


Yoga Smoga

Tuesday, September 29, 2015

This site has affiliate links and sponsored content. Read my Disclosure Policy.



I've tried Yoga many times and it just isn't my thing to follow something like that with an instructor. So now I just try to do it on my own and it seems to have more of an effect on me.   Of course you need to wear something very comfortable if you're going to be stretching and twisting and moving your body. 





I am obsessed with this Tank from Yoga Smoga.   It's basically a sports bra (which does a great job of giving the girls support) with a top over it.  The front is totally open but because it crisscrosses it overlaps and covers me up.  It's is SOOOOO comfortable and I love wearing it around the house when I'm cleaning or getting lots done.  







And these Momentum Leggings are so comfortable!  They hug my body perfectly and are very breathable.  It's so easy to move around in them and they don't ride up or fall down. They literally stay in place. The hip pockets are perfect too!





Oh and I mentioned this before but just incase you missed it - Talking about ways to stop sweat while I work out and when I'm just hanging out - I love Secret Clinical Strength. I got it free from BzzAgent but I have to say - I have always suffered from stress sweat and this stuff works great.  It has 4x Stress Sweat Protection so no more embarassing moments in a big meeting at the office or when I'm out with friends!






What's your go to outfit for yoga or for doing stuff around the house?  
 photo ScreenShot2014-06-25at102225PM_zps4fdda517.png