Maka'z Home

More Burlap Madness

2012-01-14T09:00:00.000-07:00

Do you remember the other day I posted a plain and simple burlap banner that took less than 20 minutes to put together from start to finish? You can check it out here.

I decided to make another one with a different twist.

Aloha~Makalani~Life is Good~

Burlap Banner in Minutes

2012-01-12T10:44:00.004-07:00

First post of the New Year. Hope you had a great holiday and were able to create lasting memories with your friends and ohana.

I was feeling ansy this morning and had all the supplies on hand and decide to add a little something to the guest bath.

Do you see that burlap banner hanigng across the top of the mirror? Took less than 20 minutes from start to finish.

You will need jute or yarn or something comparable to that, some burlap which I happened to have from a previous project, hot glue gun and sticks, and scissors.

Pin It

I first measured out how long I wanteed my banner to be. Then, I started cutting triangles. I just rough eye-balled it. Doesn't have to be perfect. Then add hot glue along the top of the triangle and place string in glue trail. Once I had them all in place I hung. No dry time needed.

Simple, right? How do you like it? Quick, easy, that is the kind of projects I like. I love it when a plan comes together.

Now you could dress it up, but I like it plain.

I'm linking up here:

A glimpse Inside

House of Hepworths

Fireflies and Jellybeans

Someday Crafts

My Rrepurposed Life

Sassy Sites

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

Mele Kalikimaka

2011-12-11T21:33:00.000-07:00

From Our House to Yours!

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

Our Newest Addition

2011-12-03T16:54:00.000-07:00

Introducing our newest addition to our Ohana. He was an early Christmas present for my daughter. His name is Aka {ah ka} which means shadow in Hawaiian. After 4 days he was living up to his name and following my daughter around like a shadow everywhere she went. He has moved on to following the rest of the ohana as well if one of us leaves the room he is in.

He loves to give kisses <3

And, he loves to chew fingers....

Elmer's craft night

2011-11-22T15:43:00.000-07:00

Omg! Soooo much fun. Just the break I needed from homework and the cure for my crafting withdrawls I have been having.

I was one of the lucky few who got to attend the Elmer's craft night hosted by Lil' Luna and Lollyjane Boutique.

We were told to bring a 12x12 glitter scrapbook paper and 2 dozens of cookies. 1 dozen to share that night and then a plate full to take home. They were going to be supplying everything else. And boy oh boy did they.

Check out the bag FULL of goodies we each got. This was sitting on our crafting places.

Ohhhhh, look what you can see.

Did you see it all. Glue dots, exacto knife, scissors, foam board, cutting mat, gel pens, painters makers, fabric glue, glue stick, and more.

I even won another cutting mat and scissors from one of the numerous drawings they had throughout the evening.

And check out this merry JOY banner that we ended up making. See what the glitter paper was used for?

Thank you to Elmer's and Lil' Lolly! hahaha! Lil' Luna and LollyJane Boutique. You guys seriously rock!

Safeway Scores

2011-08-04T19:14:00.001-07:00

Who would have thought that you could get these deals at a grocery store? I have from past experience. I always make it a routine to go through the florist department at my neighborhood Safeway store. I have found a few great deals over the years here.

Their florist department not only has flowers, but carry seasonal decoration, decorative vases and jars, assorted gift baskets, yard statues and misc items as well as a small variety of candles. Cruise through yours and check out what kinds of deals you can score.

Check out the finds! 2 gift baskets, 3 Starbucks cup sleeves, and 2 shelf things {crates}.

Yup, that is right, it was originally $24.99 and it was on sale for only $4.99. It has soaps, lotion, bubble bath, soap bar, body butter, and loofah.

This spa basket was only $2.99 and the original price was $19.99.

This crate stands around 2 feet tall and check out the price tag and what I actually paid on this baby. It is made for out doors, but I have not decided what to do with it yet.

Not sure if you can see those rods through the wood slats, but the top of these crates lift off and you can remove the rods to open one side or take it apart. Cool huh?

And here is his big brother. Yikes, $69.99! No way. I only paid $6.99. That's more like it.

These were not in the florist department, this Safeway has a Starbucks located inside and they had these cup sleeves on clearance for $1 each. Great stocking stuffer.

Have you scored any great deals today?

Let's party here!

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

Dollar store Frames

2011-07-22T10:43:00.000-07:00

Here is an easy and cheap craft to do. I have seen several of these done in all sorts of ways here on blog land. Here is my take.

First, get some $1 store frames. {Mine are all 5X7}

You will also need vinyl letters, or large stickers. Heck if you are good at painting, you could even paint the letters on the glass. I cut my vinyl letters with my silhouette which I don't use nearly as much as I would like to.

Note: You can have the letters on the inside of the glass or the outside. If you desire it on the inside, don't for get to cut vinyl letters out backwards. I forgot about that and had to re cut my letters because I wanted them on the inside.

OK, back to the project. I took the glass and backings out of the frames and spray painted the frames black. I then stuck the vinyl letters on the inside of the glass. I then reinstalled the glass back into the frame with hot glue. You can put the backings and everything back into the frames if you don't like the see through look. In this case, you would not have to glue the glass to the frames. Let it dry if you glue the glass in.

Once everything was dry, I arranged the frames side by side until I got the look of the frames I wanted. I then glued the frames together side by side.

Let dry and that was it. Simple! You could also just hang the frames individually on the wall without gluing them together. Have fun with it.

I'm Party with my peeps here.

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

Chalk it Trio

2011-06-06T20:54:00.000-07:00

I love chalkboards and am obsessed with making everything into a chalkboard. I see so many inspiring chalkboards all over blog land. I found this trio for $1 at Goodwill and decided to use it for my daughters many, many, many pencils, pens, crayons, etc.

The yellow is cute, but her room is pink and purple so I took my spray can to it and pinked away.

Then taped off a square area and sprayed the chalkboard paint.

Then labeled with chalk pens {LOVE} these! You gotta get some if you don't have them.

You likey? I likey!

Partying with these people here.

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

Puffy Pom Poms

2011-06-04T10:53:00.002-07:00

So last night as I was combing through all the blogs that inspire me {over there on the side bar ===>} I had the need to create something.

I wanted to paint, but did not have the colors I needed. I wanted to sew, but didn't have the matching thread. Then, I remembered I saw some puffyness made from napkins and thought, I have those. So just before turning in, I fluffed out a few of these. Sorry for the bad lighting, night pics indoors don't turn out so well in my house.

So these were too easy. I got 2 napkins and opened them up and cut on all four seems. I took the first napkin and stacked the layers and then cut scallops along the edges. Then took the other one and did the same. I then accordion folded the napkin and secured with floral wire wrapped in the middle to each of them. Then began to separate the layers of the layers. Be careful cause napkins tear easy. They are not the bounty type of material.

I just used the 4" napkins, so they turned out very full. The bigger the napkin size, the more layers you need.

Sorry, no pics for the tutorial, but I think you get it, right?

Happy crafting weekend!

http://nv-craftenvy.blogspot.com/2011/06/saturday-spotlight-51.html

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

Hello strangers!

2011-06-02T12:45:00.000-07:00

Ooh, that would be me! lol :) I sure has been a while and I have been stocking up on inspiration all over blogland. I sure have missed all of you and your creativeness.
I think it is safe to say that SUMMER is finally here in Arizona, although that is not one of the greatest things that happens around here {you know with the heat and all}, but at least we are closer to fall.

So I just got inveted to join pinterest to help me store all my inspiration that I get from you guys in one convenient place. Home Stories A 2 Z has a complete tutorial on how it works and how to work it.

I'll be back soon to share some project soon, promise.

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

VALENTINE SWAP

2011-02-01T20:38:00.000-07:00

So, remember when I was telling you about this swap a few weeks ago. What a success! These are truly fun and I consider these gals my friend even if I only know them in blogland.

It's funny, cuz I will be explainging something to a real life in person friend about one fo my blog friends and they will ask me how I know this person, and then I have to explain, well I don't really know this person, but it is one of the blogs that I follow and I feel like these great women are friends. Do you ever find youself trying to explain a blog friend?

Anyway, so this is the stuff I got from my Valentines Swapper. I Love, this apron, I have always wanted an apron and since I don't sew, well I was just hoping one would fall out of the sky. And Look! It did. Thank you again Julie L.

And these are sneak peak pics of what I sent my swapper. I totally forgot to take a pic of everything I sent. I hope she enjoys it.

Go here to see more about the swap and joining.

I like to party with these special people and you should too!

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

Valentine Swap Join in!

2011-01-16T09:38:00.000-07:00

I have belonged to this swap group for almost a year and have loved it! I love getting surprise presents in the mail. This group is so talented and I am excited to see all the swap items received and reviewed.

For only $5 bucks you can be apart of the fun too. Go here to see what I am talking about. Let them know I sent you.

I {LOVE} to party with these party people.

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

Wreathy love

2010-12-22T18:31:00.001-07:00

I have 3 wreaths that I made to decorate Maka'z Home with. This first wreath I made last year for my front door to welcome all friends and family.

These next 2 wreaths I made in an hour or maybe less. I like this one because of the simplicity. I just stuck the poinsettia in and added the bronze looking filler added a few ornaments and done. Nothing is even glued down so it could evolve or change if I get ~~tired of it~~ some other creative idea.

I love this one and how simple it looks and how easy it as to make. Just start with a wreath and hot glue random sizes of balls randomly around the wreath and add a bow to complete it.

I still want to make another outside one for the pitch in my roof above the garage. Is it possible to have to many wreaths?

Joining these parties and more here.

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

The tree is Decked!

2010-12-11T18:04:00.000-07:00

I finally got around to taking pics of the tree we put up last weekend. Not too much words, but a few pics to share.

Mele Kalikimaka and check out these great parties here.

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

Cucumber Kim Chee

2010-12-06T09:54:00.000-07:00

This week I decided to try a recipe tutorial. This is one of my favorite pupu dishes currently. It is also so simple to make and great for potlucks.

Kim Chee is a Korean dish and is made with all sorts of different vegetables. The most popular one being with Napa cabbage.

Ingredients are:

4 cucumbers {just regular cucumbers work best}

1 teaspoon Hawaiian sea salt

1 bunch green onion

1 teaspoon sesame oil

1 small onion

Kim Chee Base

Semi peel cucumbers like this.

Then you want to cube the 4 cucumbers into bite size pieces. Cut bunch of green onion into inch, inch and 1/2 in length. Cut onion into slices. Mix together with the seal salt and let stand on the counter for 1 hour covered. Mixing every so often. The sea salt will bring out the liquid in the cucumber.

Then you want to shake 3 shakes of this into the cucumbers and add sesame oil. Taste, if enough spice for you then chill for 1 hour or until ready to serve. If you like it spicy than add more of the base until you like it. Then chill. I have had a batch in the fridge for up to at least 1 week if it last that long. :) Enjoy!

Will be linking up with these awesome PARTIES!!!!

Thanks to Stephenie Mahiai for sharing the recipe.

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

1st week update for eBay

2010-11-30T21:12:00.000-07:00

Remember how I told you back here that I tried following My Dear Trash for selling on eBay. Well, after the 1^st week my total profit after purchase price, eBay fees, paypal fees & shipping was a whopping $9.38. I am in for a total of $59 so far. I am a little disappointed, but at least I sold some things. I am also still excited so I want to continue on to see how it goes for at least a month and then give it 6 months. Wish me luck!

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

Patterned Pumpkin

2010-11-29T08:00:00.000-07:00

I first tried some material on a pumpkin with modge podge, boy was that horrible. The material was very stiff and not at all the look I was going for. I then found a pack of these patterned napkins on clearence for $.59 a pack at hobby lobby.

I tore the napkin into strips and blocks and modge podged the entire pumpkin and painted the pumpkin stem brown.

I like how it turned out and doesn't just have to decorate the home for fall or the holidays but can be a nuetral all year decor.

And, I only ended up using maybe 3 napkins.

Come party with us here.

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

Slight Ebay Mistake

2010-11-22T21:13:00.001-07:00

Ok, so last week I went to Goodwill on Dollar Thursday to find some deals that I could put on craigslist to sell and make some extra cash. I was inspired to begin this adventure from My Dear Trash's blog. She does pretty well for herself. I am very impressed. So after reading her pointers and her experience I went to it.
I was at Goodwill for about 3 hours and got about 22 items. All for $1 each. Including this redo.

Well so off the bat, my first item that sells I know I could have gotten much more for, but I didn't change the price from the last item I had entered on ebay. I still made money on it, about $6. Not bad. I'm happy.

Nice Jacket, huh? The lucky buyer scooped it up for just $7.99 plus $6.95 shipping. Can't wait to see what the other stuff sell for.

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

$1 Lamp

2010-11-21T17:35:00.000-07:00

I was able to pick this lamp up at Goodwill last Thursday. If you know goodwill, they do their $1 days on Thursday for a certain week and color tag. Last week, week 43 and pink tags were all $1. I could not pass this lamp up. It was chunky and I knew I could work worth it, especially since it was only $1

I wanted to paint it black, because the gold highlights were just killing me.

So then I decided to get the paint more into the nooks and crannies. Still not sure if I like it.

I know I want to do something with the lampshade, but for now I only know that I want to add a black and white patterned material of some kind maybe with little green and some kind of trim. Or not sure if I should just change the shade all together to a different shape.

Well, this is where it makes its home for now here in Maka'z Home.

Partying with all these cool *parties*

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

Smokin deals!

2010-11-15T10:00:00.027-07:00

We had a local consignment company close their doors in Aug and I was able to score a few candlesticks. I have been looking for candlesticks for a while but didn't want to pay more than a few bucks for them.

I took a few candles sticks that I had and primed and painted them to the Pebble color from Krylon Rustoleum. This stuff is great! Easy all over coverage, dries evenly. I get them from Walmart. That seems to be the cheapest I have found.

These are the candlesticks I scored and paid 75% off the tags you see.

Got this one for less than $2 bucks.

This one for $2.50.

This pair for $2.50.

And this beauty for just $1.25. This was my favorite. And this is how they turned out.

I also ended up taking the spray can to a few pumpkins too! Krylon Rustoleum in Pebble, Heirloom White, and good ol' flat black.

Partying with these great parties here.

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

Newest hats added to my Home

2010-11-15T10:00:00.024-07:00

Here is the newest hats that I have taken to the boutique that I sell some of my things at. Most of these are for children with the exception on the grey ones. Enjoy!

Enjoying the parties going on here.
Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

Seasonal Swaperoos: ~Mahalo Beth~

2010-09-28T15:39:00.000-07:00

Seasonal Swaperoos: ~Mahalo Beth~: "I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE, everything I got from you! It most definatley put me in the mood for fall and got me decorating. I so much love these ..."

I was able to be a part of yet another fabulous swap.

Halloween shared with Bunny Cakes

2010-09-24T20:03:00.004-07:00

This is another great blog that linked up to my "Spooktacular" link party here. Bunny Cakes is making her own costumes again this year. You can read more about it and find other inspiration there as well.

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

It's a lolly Halloween!

2010-09-24T08:48:00.000-07:00

I held a "Spooktacular" party back in August for inspiration. You can find it here. So, I am always inspired by one of the blogs that linked up their Halloween decor from last year.

And this year, they are at it again. Check out LollyJane Boutique for some Halloween inspiration like these:

I am loving that candy corn tree. I saw it in the women's day magazine and thought what a simple thing to make and then I saw it on Kelli and Krisit's creative blog. Thanks ladies for the endless inspiration.

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

At home with my cloche

2010-09-20T11:03:00.001-07:00

I'm back! I think! This is hard to get back into when you have been away so long. I have missed everyone and all the inspiration, so I have to learn to juggle my career and my passion. Although it seems, my career is my passion too!

Any who, so I have finally made a cloche, although it is not as big as I would have liked it, it will do and I am happy to have it. :)

I started at goodwill (my fav treasure place) and found a glass candlestick, and glass plate and the dome cover. All were $1 each! I took them home and gorilla glued the glass candlestick to the glass plate and let it sit over night with some weight on it.

Then took some primer to the whole thing and got this.

See those candlesticks in the background that got a makeover too! Those are to come soon! Stay tuned. I then painted the entire thing black.

I found some paper doilies that I had to sit on the plate because something about spray paint and food not being a good combination. :)

I love it! Turned out great, don't you think so?

Linking to these parties here.

Life is Good~

Hello, Anyone Home?

2010-08-31T13:05:00.001-07:00

Hello, Anyone Home?
I know that is probably what you are thinking, cause I have been thinking the same thing.

Kids went back to school and I kind of took a vacay, well not really. I have been working on some projects, but not nearly as many as I would like to have.

I promise, will be back in full swing next week with hopefully a lot more stuff to show you.

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

Face Lift

2010-08-23T12:35:00.001-07:00

So if you are no stranger here you will notice the new face lift Maka'z Home got from Kassie over at Designs by Kassie. If you have not had the opportunity to meet this talented blogger, go check her out NOW!!!!.
She is awesome to work with and very creative. Give her your idea and she turns it into reality. I am totally happy with the header she made as well as the signature and button and the layout. I have been wanting to do this for some time, but could never afford the $40 that I see some charge. I didn't even have to pay close to that for this face lift.
Seriously, Kassie rocks and can rock your blog too. Thanks Kassie I {heart} what you have done around here.

I am partying over here here.

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

Bathroom door dress up

2010-08-17T07:41:00.000-07:00

The silhouette has striked again in the bathroom. If you have been following my blog then you know I have been re doing my guest bathroom {slowly} I might add. So the newest thing that my fantastic
silhouette has helped me with is this sign on the door of the bathroom.

Kane for men and wahine for women.

It was a fun idea that I wanted to add.

I may be linking up to any and all of these fabulous people here who like to party. Check them out for tons of inspiration.

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

Candy Cake

2010-08-12T10:14:00.001-07:00

I am sometimes stumped on gifts for young ones and I never know if they already have this or that. Gift cards are great to give, but I like getting or giving something I put some thought into. Although this gift might not be always welcomed by the parent it is fun and I have gotten great comments when I have given it as a gift.

These are just a few of the items you will need as well as hot glue gun ans glue sticks. Oh yeah, and don't forget the CANDY! :) I got everything at the Dollar Tree except for the cake board. But you could even just cut out a round cardboard.

I took a 8" cake board and covered it with wrapping paper. I then tiered the styrofoam rings and hot glued them together and then to the cake board.

I then poked the huge lollipop down the middle of the cake. {Side note, it works well to leave the plastic wrap on the styrofoam rings}

Then I layered the candy and attached with hot glue gun. Added some curled ribbon to the top and WALAH!

Easy, easy.

Always partying with these wonderful linky parties here.

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

Seaweed Tank

2010-08-09T23:11:00.000-07:00

I saw someone here on blog land do flowers to the back of their toilet tank and I thought it was a clever idea to add something fun to something kinda boring.

I just got a silhouette that I bought from someone off of craigslist and am so excited. This is the first project I have done with it and am anxious to do many more. I L.O.V.E., love IT!

I have been re-doing my guest bath really 1 project at a time so this has been a rather long process {being this is only my second project}. :)~

I started with the download from the silhouette library for $.99.

The download is called seaweed C2009082.

I then stretched it, and mirrored it and squished it so I could have different sizes and shapes as well as cut on different vinyl colors.

I love how this turned out. Brings interest to the boring tank.

What do you think?

I'm linking to a few of these great parties here.

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

Temple Blocks

2010-08-09T11:20:00.000-07:00

Seriously creative!!! I got this idea here. Seriously, this chick is chalk full of ideas.

So I went to Home Depot and checked out their scrap wood collection. My neighborhood Home Depot sells their scraps for $.51 a piece. I found 1 piece and ask the employee if he could cut these 7" long. Home Depot cuts for free if you did not know that. I needed them to be able to fit a 4X6 picture so they ended up be roughly 5X7.

I sanded all sides down with my 3M sanding block to take most of the roughness out.

I then painted with American Black acrylic paint all of the sides and the back.

Once it was dried, I flipped it over and just painted on the outer edges and the picture was going to be covering most of the middle.

Once that dried, I covered it with good ol' Mod Podge. I {heart} this stuff! I then placed the picture centered on the mod podge.

I then put 2 more coats of mod podge over the whole from (picture and all) to give it a good seal. Once it dries, you could take your 3M sanding block to the edges to distress it if you like that look. I decided to not do that on this project.

I then added some tulle.

And tied some ribbon to the tulle.

You can find all different temple pics here with sayings or blank.

So this whole project cost me:

Copy of picture $.20

had the mod podge, tulle, ribbon, acrylic paint

Scrap wood $.51 (I got 3 blocks out of the 1 piece of wood) so $.17ea

GRAND TOTAL: $.37

Thanks Lil' Luna for sharing!!!!

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

Accordian Flower Tutorial

2010-08-04T21:17:00.000-07:00

I know, these are all over blog land, but they are the most easiest flowers to make and I love how they look. I know all of my readers are pretty good at these because I have seen them on your blogs, but I have a few new followers and they might benefit.

You just need a strip of material that is at least 1" wide and the longer the material, the more ruffles you can make.

Fold the width of the material in half. It is easier if you press the material with a hot iron, but is not necessary. I don't iron it, but once I get going I always wished that I had. Up to you.

Then take a threaded needle and make a running stitch along the folded edge of the material. You will pull down on the material as you stitch so it starts gathering behind you.

Once you reach the end, somethings the gathers start curling and forming in a circle motion and you just need to tweak.

These here, I just made a circle with, but you can overlap and circle into forming a fuller flower. Possibilities are soooo endless.

Linking up with these parties here.

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

Curb Alert Finds

2010-08-03T10:19:00.000-07:00

Have you heard of a CURB ALERT before? Well, if you frequent craigslist like I do in the free section, you might see it. It is when people put things they want to get rid of out on the curb and post it to craigslist.
If you are lucky the poster will delete the ad once the items have been removed so you don't make a wasted trip. Anyway, this particular time the curb alert was around the corner from me. There was this bench swing, the bird house, a frame of a swing, and a old BBQ grill.

I have always wanted a porch swing. But as you can see, it kinda takes up the whole front porch. So, it might turn out to be a bench for the backyard. We'll have to see what happens to it. (Please excuse the leaves everywhere, we are in monsoon season and these leaves just keep coming back.)

I had a client that was moving and leaving these chairs behind so I asked if he minded if I took them to redo. Funny story :)~ I had regular dinning chairs that I hated, they where the ever popular farmhouse chairs that break very easily, know the ones? Well, when we moved into our home almost 4 years ago, I decided to finally get rid of them and that would force me to get new dinning table chairs, right? NOT! I have been using resin lawn furniture chairs ever since. Urgh! So, once I get to it, I am changing out the seats of the chairs and then probably painting the chairs black with some distress sanding involved.

Another agent in my office knows I craft and gave me these. She said, "I know you can do something with these." So true. Love when other people help me with my obsessions.

Linking to these fabulous Parties here.

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

Thank you! Thank you!

2010-08-01T18:11:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to thank all you "spooktacular" crafters who linked up and helped to make our first link party inspirational. If you are looking to get a jump on Halloween, check out the awesome project here from these talented people.

These great links will be featured throughout the month of September. If you have any inspiration for Halloween that you would like to add, feel free to email them to me. Enjoy!

~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

Goodwill Finds All under $8

2010-07-30T12:33:00.000-07:00

Last days to enter our Halloween Inspiration linky party going on over here. All entries will be featured throughout September.

On Sat., July 24 my neighborhood was honored with a bigger and better Goodwill store. I had some things to drop off and donate and while I was there I thought I would check things out. When I dropped off my donations, I was handed a $5 coupon to take off of my total within the next couple of days. If I didn't use it right away, it would have burned a whole in my pocket. :) So, I guess this might be an all the time thing.

Anyway, I eyed this birdcage for $1.99 and just had to have it to add to my slowly growing bird home collection. I am going to spray it black or antique white. I post once I get it done.

I also found this globe for $7.99, but with the $5 coupon I scored for the donation, I thought I would splurge. Now, $7.99 might be a good price for this globe, I am not sure, I just was not feeling that price and would probably not have bought it without the coupon. I know I have seen a new one in Target for $14.99. I have seen these globes covered in chalkboard paint throughout blog land and am planning to do just that with this globe. But for now Miss K is enjoying seeing where we live in AZ and the distance to where her grammie lives in HI.

I also got these 3 different glass jars, all for $.99 each and have added them to my jar collection.

I am looking forward to this Goodwill's 1st 50% off sale tommorrow, July 31st. I know I will find some great treasure and will be sure to share with all of you.

I'll be linking to some of these awesome parties here.

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

Silver Bowl Makeover

2010-07-28T09:00:00.000-07:00

Don't forget the Spooktacular Link party going on here now until the end of the month All entries will be featured throughout the month of September. Just a few more days left. Check it out here.

Remember this silver dish I scored at Goodwill a few months ago. Well he has been finally put in his place. He become home to these beauties.

But I was not digging the silver. So with some help from my friend Rustoleum Flat Black spray paint, he has found his place in our home.

Best to paint upside down as well as right side up to get an all over coverage of spray.

He looks fabulous and so do the treasures he homes.

Linking up to these wonderful parties.

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

Decorative Balls

2010-07-26T08:21:00.000-07:00

Don't forget the Spooktacular Link party going on here until the end of this month. Check it out here.

Remember these deco balls we made earlier, well I need more, but different ones.

Well they got lonely and I got creative.

The moss ones were fun to make, but a bit messy. These black ones were originally tan and I just spray painted them black.

These are the things I started with. I got the wiffle balls, moss roll, and moss sheet from dollar tree and the jute I got from Hobby Lobby with my 40% off coupon, it was originally $2.99. One of these jute rolls could probably make at least 16 of these deco balls if not more. So for less than $4 you could make 4 of the moss deco balls and for less than $4 you could make about 16 or more jute covered deco balls. Now I have seen these puppies go for well more than that amount just for 1.

You'll want to cut the sheet into squares, I got about 12 squares roughly around the same size from the sheet. You then want to cup it into your hand so that it forms a curve that would fit against the ball. Then hot glue it like crazy and press it against the ball. You will use the moss roll to fill in all the spaces. I used 3 squares on each ball, but you get the idea and can adapt to whatever you feel.

To make the jute deco balls I started with a big dot of glue and just coiled the jute around and around and around and yet around again until you get to the opposite end of the ball.

I originally saw this idea from House of Hepworths. She has tons, I mean tons of cute decor stuff to check out.

And here they all are, one big happy family.

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

More beach funness!

2010-07-22T19:51:00.004-07:00

Here's another apocarthy jar that I made that was inspired by Shanty 2 Chic. They have such great ideas go ahead a check them out, of course after your done checking us out. :)

I picked up the sand, beach glass and shells at the dollar tree and the marbles I got on clearance last year for $1.04 at Target.

I have them in our guest bath now and is the inspiration for the bathroom re-do. I picked up a can of oops paint from Home Depot last week that is a light blue aqua color for $1 which I will use for the walls.

Don't forget that our Spooktacular Inspiration is going on until the end of the month. One lucky winner will be randomly picked from the links in the party here and I will be show casing my favorites throughout the month of September. Join in!

Linking up to

Craftastical

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

It's a "Spooktacular Inspirational" Parteeeh

2010-07-20T22:56:00.001-07:00

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

Beachy Apocarthy

2010-07-13T23:13:00.000-07:00

I was missing home and the beach a little bit and wanted to bring the beach feel to my home. I am thinking of re doing the hall bath in a beach theme in a few months and will be collecting and making things to decorate with.

First off, I had made these apocarthy jars that I got the idea from shanty2chic found here.
I filled one with sand that I got from the dollar tree along with some shells I got there as well

And here is how it turned out. I am liking it. I wondering if there is a way to get the beach smell too when I take the cover off.

Linking up to the parties on the side bar --------->

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

Jewelry Hanging Organizer

2010-07-08T14:12:00.002-07:00

I have been wanting to make one of these for a long time now. I am so happy that I finally did it and now need to make more.

I have purchased this frame from Michael's for about $5 a few months ago. I forgot to take a before picture. It was a brown wood looking color. I took some Antique White and applied a few coats.

I was not worried about covering into the cracks because I was going to add some distress to it by adding some watered down brown acrylic paint.

I ended up deciding to only use the fleur de lis knobs that I picked up at Hobby Lobby for 50% off of $1.99 making them $1 ea.

I then got a grill from Home Depot that my brother cut down to size for me.

I think I paid under just under $10 for this.

Then I painted the grill with Antique White spray paint and thought it was a little plain so I added brown paint to the grill as well and then wiped it off until I got the look I wanted. I then hot glued it to the inside of the frame.

I then added hooks to the back of the frame so I could hang on my wall. I love these hooks because you just hammer them into the back of the frame.

And walah! Here she hangs.

And here she is all dressed up. I love it because I had my earrings in a drawer and would hunt and hunt for my earrings. Now I can see them and they are all displayed so neat. I am thinking of making more to hang more bracelets and necklaces.

Linking to these awesome parties on my side bar ----------->

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

Revamped brassy Owl

2010-07-07T15:50:00.001-07:00

So this is not so creative, but I love it much better than the brass.

I forgot all about this little guy. I picked him up a couple of months ago for $.10. SCORE! He was stashed in with the other to do projects that seem to keep piling up.

This was too easy. Didn't prime or anything. 2 coats of Rustoleum Flat Black spray and tada!

Linking up to the parties here.

debbie-debbiedoos

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

Another great shopping trip at Goodwill

2010-07-06T15:49:00.001-07:00

For those of you that don't know, in Arizona at least, every other Saturday, Goodwill has 50% off everything in the store except for food and beverages. This Saturday was no exception. I went to 2 different stores and got all these goodies for less than $30. I went to the Goodwill in Mesa located on Main Street just east of Recker. Was not too impressed with my trip here. By the way, they are closing this store in the next couple of weeks and opening a bigger store right across the street by JoAnn's. I then went to the store on Power and Ray in Gilbert. This was the 1st time I was at this store. A much smaller and congested store, but most of my treasures were found here that day.

I am putting together a wall of mirrors so I have started collecting them in any shape and size.

I have also been collecting jars to put my ribbon stash and buttons in to display and for easy viewing.

I also have been needing a table lamp in my living room and will get rid of the lamp shade and paint this one.

Got this lamp stand for my daughter and am on the hunt for a lamp shade for it. Will paint this too of course.

That wooden thing in the back will make a good holder for my earrings once it gets a new coat of color as well.

What treasures have you found recently?

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

File cabinet labeler

2010-07-05T13:50:00.003-07:00

I added these drawer labels to my desk at work. I have not labeled the drawers as I haven't organized the insides of the drawers to label them yet.

I got 2 of these frames from the dollar store and removed the backing.

I sprayed them with Rustoleum flat black spray. I cut a piece of fabric that I used on this memo board here to match and then I glued it to the inside of the backs that I removed to spray the frames.

I then glued the backs back on to the frames and attached these magnets to the backs.

Now they have a home here on my file drawers at the office.

Linking up to

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

4th of July Pop Bys

2010-07-02T10:13:00.000-07:00

For those of you who do not know what "pop bys" are, they are something tangible that you can give to someone when you want to pop by. I use them as a marketing tool for my real estate business and usually around holidays I make something up to give up to my best referring clients.
I have had these little baskets for a few years and just have not gotten around to using them.

I decided to insert them in these baggies that I picked up from Micheal's for $.99 for a pack of 20.

Then I added candies inside and tied it off with matching ribbon and a tag.

I'm partying with the peeps on my side bar -------> Check them out!

Happy 4th of July!

~ Makalani ~LIfe is Good~

4th of July Centerpiece

2010-07-01T09:02:00.001-07:00

Since I made soooo many of these and had quite a bit left over from a previous project, I decided to make a centerpiece by making them into flowers.

I started with some small dowels that I had and painted them red and white since I still have no blue paint in the house.

I stuck them in the holes of these wiffle balls that were in these plastic cups so that they can dry. Then I flipped them over and painted the other end of the dowels.

When they dried I added the ruffled material to the sticks with glue gun. I wrapped them around the tips of the dowels and then cut a circle felt to cover the bottom of the material where the dowel meets.

Then I got a mason jar that I picked up from Goodwill a few weeks ago for $.69 and filled it with some black marbles and tied some jute around the neck of the jar. I also inserted 3 of these picks for more flare that I had left over from a previous project.

I love how it turned out and goes great with the table runner and plate that I received from a summer swap I participated in. Thanks for stopping by.

Linking to the parties on my side bar.

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

4th of July in the valley of the Sun, Arizona

2010-06-30T16:00:00.001-07:00

Thanks to my awesome coupon instructor who put together this list of events happening throught Arizona for this 4th of July holiday weekend.

Fourth of July events 2010

After last-minute donations, Ahwatukee's July 3 fireworks show is a go.

Plus, there's Tempe Town Lake's Fourth of July Festival, Fabulous Phoenix Fourth held in the heart of the city, Rawhides's Star Spangled Shoot Out, Schnepf Farms' celebration, and much more.

Anthem: Anthem Independence Day Celebration: 6 p.m. July 3. The Anthem Independence Day Celebration event is held on the ballparks of the Anthem Community Park. The celebration kicks off with the singing of the National Anthem and is followed by additional live entertainment including a DJ and the band Persephone. A Color Guard presentation and an F-16 flyover rounds out the rest of the patriotic events. The event also includes temporary patriotic tattoos, bounce houses and food, beverages and souvenir booths. The fireworks display begins at 9:30 p.m. Anthem Community Park, 3500 W. Anthem Way, Anthem. Free. 623-879-3000.

Apache Junction: Fourth of July Celebration: 6 p.m. July 4. The Apache Junction Fourth of July Celebration features kids activities, game booths and bicycle-, wagon- and tricycle-decorating contests. Free watermelon slices are available until 6 p.m. Live musical entertainment is offered from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. featuring Jann and the Moondoggs. The night concludes with a fireworks display starting at 9 p.m. Apache Junction High School, 2525 S. Ironwood, Apache Junction. Free. 480-982-1110. www.ajcity.net.

Awatukee: After last-minute donations, Ahwatukee's July 3 fireworks show is a go. Contact Chamber of Commerce for details. Also, Red, White and Boom: 9 p.m. July 3. The Red, White and Boom event features a fireworks display. Food and beverages are available for purchase. The Ahwatukee Country Club offers dinner inside and refreshments and grilling outside. Ahwatukee Country Club, 12432 S. 48th St., Phoenix. Free. 480-893-9772.

Carefree: Carefree Fireworks Extravaganza: 4 p.m. July 2. The Carefree Fireworks Extravaganza features a cowboy-style barbecue cookout and beverages available for purchase. Attendees can also browse through the Market Place Shops in the Mesquite Room or listen to live music and dance in the Opera House. A fireworks display begins at dusk. Carefree Resort and Villas, 37220 Mule Train Road, Carefree. $5 per vehicle. 480-488-5300. www.carefree-resort.com.

Cave Creek: Fireworks Extravaganza: 6 p.m. July 3. Cave Creek Families enjoy a Fourth of July celebration with a barbecue, live music, kid-friendly activities and a fireworks display. Enjoy face painting, drink specials and performances from country/pop band, Young Country as well as local rock band, EastonAshe. The evening concludes with a colorful explosion of fireworks. Reservations required. Harold's Cave Creek Corral, 6895 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek. Free. 480-488-1906. www.haroldscorral.com. Also, Cave Creek Fireworks: 8:45 p.m. July 4. The Cave Creek Fireworks event at the Silver Spur Saloon features a dunk tank and music from the country band, Tumbling Dice. The fireworks display begins at 8:45 p.m. Silver Spur Saloon, 6245 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek. Free. 480-488-3317. www.silverspursaloon.com.

Chandler: Fourth of July Celebration: Chandler 11 a.m.-9 p.m. July 4. The celebration includes barbecue dishes and drink specials plus a bounce house just for kids. Then take a free trolley ride to Tumbleweed Park for the festive fireworks show. Red, White & Brew, 4850 S. Gilbert Road, Chandler. Menu prices vary. 480-305-6993. www.rwbaz.com/. 7UP Fireworks Spectacular: Chandler Tumbleweed Park 4 p.m. July 4. The 7UP Fireworks Spectacular features a free kids carnival, a bike parade, food and beverage vendors, plus a 35-foot water slide, rock-climbing wall and dunk tank. The Arizona Veteran Rodders Club displays more than 100 classic cars. The Cactus Bike Push, Pull, Peddle Bike Parade is held at 6 p.m. and features decorated bikes. The participant with the best decorated bike wins a Harro children's bike. Live music is played by Plastic Gladys at 6:30 p.m. and Panhead Ronnie at 8:30 p.m. The fireworks display begins at 9:30 p.m. Tumbleweed Park, 2250 S. McQueen Road, Chandler. $5 per vehicle. www.chandleraz.gov/default.aspx?pageid=162.

Gilbert: Old Fashioned Fourth of July – Gilbert Posted - Monday, June 07, 2010 Gilbert's Old Fashioned 4th of July
When: Sunday, July 4th 6p.m.
Where: Big League Dreams, 4536 East Elliot Road More info TBA
Fourth of July Special: Gilbert Polar Ice 11 a.m.-3 p.m. July 4. Celebrate Fourth of July without breaking the bank. The first 100 skaters receive admission for $4. Admission does not include skate rental. All ages welcome. Polar Ice Gilbert, 2305 E. Knox Road, Gilbert. $8; $4 if one of first 100 skaters; $3.25 skate rental. 480-503-7080. www.polaricegilbert.com.

Goodyear: Goodyear's Star Spangled Fourth: 6-10 p.m. July 4. Goodyear's Star Spangled Fourth features balloon twisters, airbrush tattoos, food and beverage vendors, a "Cool Zone," with beer and margaritas and an F-16 flyover. Rides and bouncers are available for $5 for five rides or $10 for unlimited ride wristbands. Live music is provided by Cold Shott and the Hurricane Horns and Capt'n Henry and the Rum Runners. The APS Fireworks Spectacular begins at 9:35 p.m. Goodyear Ballpark, 1933 S. Ballpark Way, Goodyear. Free admission and parking. 623-882-3120. www.goodyearaz.gov/ballpark.

Litchfield Park: "Community Spirit, National Pride": Litchfield Park 7-10 p.m. July 4. The "Community Spirit, National Pride" Fourth of July event features a DJ with music, a salute to America with an F16 flyover from Luke Air Force Base, food and beverages for sale plus glow-in-the-dark necklaces. The fireworks display begins at 9 p.m. Chairs and blankets are allowed but alcohol and glass containers are not permitted. Litchfield Park, 214 W. Wigwam Blvd., Litchfield Park. Free. 623-935-5033. www.litchfield-park.org. Splash Bash: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. July 4. The Splash Bash 4th of July celebration at Litchfield Park Recreation Center Swimming Pool features diving for coins, relay races, biggest splash contest, greased watermelon chase and a watermelon seed-spitting contest. A snack bar sells hot dogs, sodas and Hawaiian shaved ice. Litchfield Park Recreation Center, 100 S. Old Litchfield Road, Litchfield Park. $2. 623-935-9040. www.litchfield-park.org/. Fourth of July Fireworks and Celebration: Litchfield Park 4 p.m. July 4. The Fourth of July Fireworks and Celebration includes a free Great American Picnic from 4-9 p.m. and features activities like hayrides, folk guitar music, history tours of the Old West, children's arts and craft activities, fireside s'mores, storytelling and a live DJ spinning American classics. The event also features a display of the latest military vehicles and equipment from the 944 Reserve Wing stationed at Luke Air Force Base plus an F-16 flyover. A barbecue is available from 5-9 p.m. at $15 for adults and $9 for children 10 and under. The fireworks display begins at 9 p.m. Wigwam Golf Resort and Spa, 300 Wigwam Blvd., Litchfield Park. Free. 623-935-3811. www.wigwamresort.com.

Peoria: Fourth of July All-American Festival: Peoria 5-10 p.m. July 4. Sure the fireworks are great, but check out what else is happening at this event. Attractions include food, entertainment and water zones, live music, an F-16 fly-over and plenty of vendors. Gates open at 5 p.m. Bring your lawn chairs and grab your spot on the lawn early. Peoria Sports Complex, 16101 N. 83rd Ave., Peoria. $5 for 13 and older; free parking. 623-773-7110. www.peoriaaz.gov/specialevents.

Phoenix: Fabulous Phoenix Fourth: 6-8 p.m. July 4. The Fabulous Phoenix Fourth features local entertainment beginning at 7 p.m. including a giant misting area, inflatable rides, a kid's world stage, a classic car exhibit and a fireworks display plus plenty of food and beverage vendors. The Phoenix Fire Department is on-site to cool people down in the water spray zone. Steele Indian School Park, 300 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix. Free. 602-262-6412. http://phoenix.gov/PARKS/parks.html#S.

Fiesta of Independence: Phoenix 10 a.m. July 4. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and South Mountain Community College welcome more than 200 Valley residents as new U.S. citizens at the annual Fourth of July naturalization ceremony. Held in the gym. South Mountain Community College, 7050 S. 24th St., Phoenix. Free. 949-360-3000. www.southmountaincc.edu. Light Up the Sky: 7-9 p.m. July 3. The Light Up the Sky event held at Maryvale Baseball Park features games and contests, food, beverages and information booths. The night concludes with a grand fireworks display. Maryvale Baseball Park, 3600 N. 51st Ave., Phoenix. Free admission. 602-262-6575. phoenix.gov/SPORTS/complexs.html.

Queen Creek: Fourth of July Celebration: 5 p.m. July 4. The Fourth of July Celebration at Schnepf Farms features arts and crafts, children's booths, a rock-climbing wall and inflatables. Ride wristbands are $10. The fireworks show begins at 9 p.m. Proceeds benefit Kiwanis Club of Queen Creek, an organization that raises money for local children's charities. Schnepf Farms, 24810 Rittenhouse Road, Queen Creek. $10 per carload. 480-987-3100. www.schnepffarms.com.

Rawhide: A Star Spangled Shoot Out: 5:30 p.m. July 4. A Star Spangled Shoot Out at Rawhide features a night of celebration including live music, face painting, a "best dressed" cowboy and cowgirl costume contest, action packed performances by Rawhide's own Rough Riders, seasonal food items at the Steakhouse and Saloon and an aerial fireworks finale. Rawhide at Wild Horse Pass, 5700 W. North Loop Road, Chandler. $10 per person for ages 5 and up. Parking is Free. 480-502-5600. www.rawhide.com.

Scottsdale: Scottsdale Fourth of July Parade: 7:30 a.m. July 4. Scottsdale's Fourth of July Parade includes decorated bikes, roller blades, skateboards, horses and dogs all making a processional through Mescal Park to celebrate Independence Day. The event also features a bubblegum-blowing contest and water balloon toss for prizes. A drop site is available for packages for troops. Mescal Park, 11015 N. 68th St., Scottsdale. Free. 480-312-2771. www.scottsdaleaz.gov/Parks/neighborhood/mescal.asp.

Red, White and Beautiful: 9 p.m.-2 a.m. July 2. Scottsdale's hot spot offers an East Coast-style Fourth of July party inspired by the Hamptons. Don an all-white outfit and celebrate America with a DJ, a champagne campaign and a bikini fashion display. Party the night away with Independence Day favors and signature cocktails. Stone Rose Lounge, Fairmont Scottsdale 7575 E. Princess Drive, Scottsdale. Free admission; $10 champagne campaign. 480-585-4848. www.fairmont.com/scottsdale.

Surprise: Fourth of July Celebration: Surprise 5-8:30 p.m. July 4. The Fourth of July Celebration features a Rookie League baseball game where the Texas Rangers take on the Chicago Cubs. Kids can have fun in the Kid Zone for $2 that includes giant slides, obstacle courses, face painters and balloon twisters. Food and beverages are also available for purchase at concession stands. The evening concludes with a 20-minute fireworks show set to patriotic music. Space is limited. Surprise Recreation Campus, 15850 N. Bullard Ave., Surprise. Free with canned food donation. 623-266-4500. www.surpriseaz.com.

Tempe: Fourth of July Festival: 4-11 p.m. July 4. Tempe Town Lake's annual Fourth of July Festival features a Fantastic Family Fest with a free inflatable village for all ages plus a variety of rides and rock climbing walls. The event also includes kid's entertainment, face painters, relay races and live entertainment from the bands Telescope, Lil Debbie and Blue Plate Special, the Joey Arroyo Band and Calumet. Fireworks begin at 9 p.m. and last an hour. Attendees can bring one gallon of sealed water per person, blankets, portable chairs, personal cameras and umbrellas up to 48 inches. Pets are not permitted. Military admitted free with ID. Tempe Town Lake, 80 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe. $15 for two at gate; $8 for individual at gate; $6 in advance; free for children 12 and under. 480-350-8625. www.tempe4th.com.

Interfaith Celebration of Prayer: Tempe 7-9 p.m. July 4. Celebrate our nation, its citizens and the world with chanting, music, movement and prayer through the Dances of Universal Peace. Learn sacred mantras, phrases and traditions step-by-step. The attire is casual and comfortable. Refreshments are served and art is displayed following the dance. Space is also provided to view a nearby fireworks display. Shrine of Holy Wisdom, 4625 S. Ash Ave., Suite J-19, Tempe. $10 suggested love donation. 480-219-9633. www.tinyurl.com/qyyu2w.

Tolleson: Fourth of July Independence Day Celebration: Tolleson 5-10 p.m. July 4. Commemorate American independence with free water slides and a fireworks spectacular. Bring lawn chairs and blankets and sit on the grass for the Luke Air Force Base F-16 flyover or get a bite to eat from the many food vendors, including free watermelon. Fireworks start at dark, and free parking and shuttle service are available from the Star Nursery and Tolleson City Hall. Tolleson Veterans Park, 8601 W. Van Buren St., Tolleson. Free. 623-936-2705. tollesonaz.org.

Tubac: Old Fashioned Fourth of July: 10 a.m. July 4. Tubac's Old Fashioned Fourth of July features free games for kids from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Tubac Presidio State Historic Park. Games include cake-walks, water balloon toss, hula hoops, face painting and crafts. Hot dogs and watermelon are provided free for children. Evening events begin at 4 p.m. at the Tubac Golf Resort and feature food vendors, face painting and a DJ. The fireworks display begins at 8:45 p.m. Blankets and chairs are permitted but coolers are not permitted. Donations are requested and benefit the Amado Food Bank. VIP packages are available for $35 for adults and $15 for kids and include a Ranch style barbecue plus special parking and seating for fireworks. Tubac Presidio State Historic Park, 1 Burrel St., Tubac. $7 per vehicle. 520-398-3545. www.tubacaz.com.

Wickenburg: Fireworks and Family Fun: 7-9:30 p.m. July 3. Wickenburg's annual Fireworks and Family Fun event features games, races, vendor and club booths and a fireworks display beginning at 9 p.m. Lawn chairs and blankets are permitted. Coolers and alcohol are not permitted. Sunset Park, Highway 60 West and Sunset Park Road, Wickenburg. Free. 800-942-5242. www.outwickenburgway.com.

OUT OF TOWN JULY 4 EVENTS

Celebrating Americanism: Globe 9 a.m. July 4. The Celebrating Americanism event kicks off with a patriotic parade at 9 a.m. and includes demonstrations from local police, fire and K-9 units, an American flag motorcade, bagpipe music, patriotic speeches, local dance performances and barbecue food. Free swimming is available at the Miami Hostetler Pool. A fireworks display closes the night. Downtown Globe, Broad Street, Globe. Free. 928-425-4495.

Prescott Frontier Days World's Oldest Rodeo: 7:30 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, 1:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, 7:30 p.m. Mondays through Wednesdays, June 29 through July 5. Prescott explodes with old western hospitality and charm during Frontier Days week. Enjoy "Everybody's Hometown," telling Prescott's rich history and cowboy culture. Rodeo festivities include eight thrilling rodeo performances, Arizona's largest rodeo parade, a kiddie parade, an arts and crafts show, rodeo and street dances and a Fourth of July celebration. Two rodeo showings will be held both Saturday and Sunday at 1:30 p.m and 7:30 p.m. Advance ticket purchase recommended. Prescott Rodeo Grounds, 828 Rodeo Drive, Prescott. $12-$22; prices vary depending on seat level. 866-407-6336. www.worldsoldestrodeo.com.

Independence Day Celebration: 5 p.m. July 4. Celebrate the Fourth of July in the cool air of Lyman Lake State Park. The Independence Day Celebration features rubber duck races and fireworks booming against canyon walls around Lyman Lake. Fireworks begin around 9 p.m. Duck race proceeds go to local charities. Make the most of the trip and camp at one of the 61 sites available and equipped with shade ramadas, picnic tables and grills. Camping fees are extra. Lyman Lake State Park, 11 miles south of St. Johns on U.S. 191, St. Johns. $5 per vehicle. 928-337-4441. www.azparks.gov/Parks/parkhtml/lyman.html.

Fourth of July Celebration: 8 a.m. July 4. Go back in time and head down route 66 to the Fourth of July Celebration at the historic Seligman sundries. Salute America's birthday with complimentary coffee, guest speakers and a flag raising, then hit some of the oldest antique and sundries shops where vintage memorabilia adorns the walls and aisles. Historic Seligman Sundries, 22405 Historic Route 66, Seligman. Free. 928-853-0051. www.route66patriot.com.

Aloha~ Makalani ~LIfe is Good~

Star Spangled Wreath

2010-06-29T14:51:00.007-07:00

I have been up to a few projects lately. This is the newest completed project to my 4th of July ensemble. I have never really decorated for the 4th before, but since I have had time and inspiration from blog land I decided to start my collection.

I started with these scraps of material that I cut lengthwise from salvage to salvage. If you are not a very good sewer like I am, you can hand stitch these strips. Ironing them in half lengthwise helps a lot. Once you get it stitched, you gather the material down the string to ruffle it up and end up with all of these.

You can make a few of these beauties by edging these around a 1in diameter circle felt and gluing as you go with hot glue gun.

I also got a few of these star for $.25 each that I painted with acrylic paint red and white primer paint since I did not have any white in the house. I didn't have any blue in the house either.

TIP: I use meat trays to pour paint on to paint with all my projects. Great recycling!

I then got a wooden wreath from the dollar store and covered it with burlap. And then hot glued the flowers and stars and other embellishments to the wreath.

I thought it still needed something so I dug out the toilet paper rolls and paper towel rolls that I have been saving (for what, who knows) to make firecrackers and covered them with material. I found these toothpick sparkler like things at Michael's for $.99 for a package of them and glued them to the middle of the rolls to simulate the fuse of the firecrackers. I wrapped a piece of burlap around the 3 firecrackers to hold them together and then hot glued them to sit inside the wreath like so. Please don't mind all the dust on the screen door, it needs a good hose down.

I am very pleased at how the project turned out. I hung it on the front door to welcome visitors.

Thanks for stopping by and I am linking to:

All Thingz Related

Patriotic Parade at Diary of a Craftaholic

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

Featured on Simpsonized Crafts and then some

2010-06-29T11:24:00.001-07:00

I am featured on

Audra is featuring my 4th of July headbands that you can find here. Go over and check out Audra's blog here. It is way cute and she has tons of tips from recipes to decorating, scrap booking ides and gift giving ideas. You will be glad you did! She is currently featuring her favorite 4th of July ideas she has found throughout blog land.

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

Kawai and Kempo

2010-06-24T20:31:00.000-07:00

Congratulations Kawai! My daughter has been taking Kempo since March from Lim Kempo Academy and today she has been promoted from a white belt to a yellow belt. She has worked very hard on this promotion and enjoys kempo and her teachers and mates.

These are during her testing.

These are during the actual belt ceremony.

We are sooooo proud of her! Kiiiiii-yaaaa!

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

Into Action, Finally!

2010-06-24T09:28:00.000-07:00

I have finally been able to put into action some great ideas that I have found throughout blog land. Here are just a few that I have completed.

I am going to see if I can get other shapes of bottles from a neighborhood bar and cover with different materials. So the collection is yet to come. Same with these deco balls, I want to paint some black and darker brown and then cover balls that are smaller and larger than these wiffle balls.

I am linking up to House of Hepworth as she is the ingenious person who gave me the idea.

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

I'm helping to find a cure!

2010-06-23T19:47:00.001-07:00

Look at these cute earrings.

I ordered these beauties today and am helping to find a cure for MS by doing so. Only $15 and for a good cause. Check out Steph's blog to get more information and to order. They need to sell only 3 more pairs. Go over the her blog here.

Aloha~ Makalani ~LIfe is Good~

4th of July Headbands

2010-06-23T16:31:00.008-07:00

I have been working on these headbands for the up coming holiday weekend for my nieces and daughter. I have been also working on these flowery headbands.

These are sooo fun and easy to make.

Linking up to

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

I'm a Winner Thanks to Somewhat Simple Update

2010-06-22T13:55:00.001-07:00

This is the 1st blog giveaway I have won! WhoooHoooo! I am excited. Thank you to Steph over at Somewhat Simple. Check out this giveaway. I am just way excited to have won. I get to go to Shadow Case and pick a designer kit and they will ship it to me. I can't wait. Thank you sooo much Steph for having this giveaway and thank you Jenna at Shadow Case for offering your product for the giveaway. I will update with pics when I complete mine. Here is the one I am choosing to receive.

I know not the most creative thing to do, but it was perfect for this.

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

AZ Bloggers Tour de Thrift

2010-06-22T08:29:00.003-07:00

OMG! This was the coolest thing ever. I had a great time, found some great deals, and met some fun and inspiring ladies!

Jax from Aly & Ash and Ashley from Cute As A Fox hosted this event. We met this past Saturday with 36+ ladies at Mimi's Cafe in Ahwatukee and had breakfast and chatted and won prizes, tons of prizes from awesome sponsors. We all received swag bags with tons, can I say TONS, of cool stuff in it. Look at it all

There was Krylon spray paint, Behr paint samples, modge podge, Gorilla glue, vinyl from Choose The Writing, Glitter from the Crafty Chica, a frame from Jacquilyn at DoChara Photography, and discounts and promos codes from Simply Memzelle and Clocks by Staci as well as Goodwill. We all received $5 gift cards from Goodwill too!

Speaking of Clocks by Staci, I was the lucky winner of her door FABU door prize. I love it. It goes perfect in my daughters room. Thank you so much Staci for being a sponsor.

So, when we finally got done with the winning, we went to 3 different Goodwill stores to find treasures. Here are the treasures that I found and did not spend {with the gift card included} more that $20. It was 50% off day at our Arizona Goodwill stores and there were lots of deals I scored.

Look at it all. I forgot I bought some grey boots also that are not pictured. Won't be doing anything to those, I love them just they way they are.

So I got this metal tray that I am going to cover either with material or paper or chalk board paint to make a board for the wall.

And I got this tray that I am going to make black with my trusty Rustoleum flat black spray.

I also got this dish that I am changing to black as well. {Do you see a pattern?} I picked up a few different size and types of balls at the dollar store today that I am going to alter to make some deco balls that won't cost me a fortune. Stay tuned for that one coming soon.

I also picked up this shanty box, I love the colors, but it doesn't go with anything I have right now. It is also missing a leg. I am going to remove the legs it does have and use it the bathroom for hand towels, toilet paper, etc. But will have to change the color for that. Probably to black. lol! How boring am I?

I also picked up this stand that I am going to paint black and distress to add to my booth at Contagious Boutique to display some of my wares on.

How cute is this necklace? I love it for a $1.

And then my all time favorite score so far, is this I don't know what you call it, but I can use it for my puter in bed, to read, or for someone to catch the hint a serve me breakfast in bed. hehehehe! Has a few knicks and scratches, not sure what I will be doing with this one. Definitely monogramming it, but that is all I have dreamed up for it right now. Oh yeah, and just paid $4 for it too!

Next 50% day in Arizona is on July 3rd and I will be hitting it!

Linking to all the great sponsors and new friends that I have made.

Cute As A Fox

Check out the stuff that Jamielyn over at I heart Naptime found on here trip to Goodwill this past weekend.

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

Update on Goodwill Finds from 6/15th

2010-06-21T16:07:00.004-07:00

The A frame picture holder I ended up scoring for $1.99 I used to hold up my magnet/push pin board on my desk at the office.

I also ended up painting the birdcage black and then distressed it a tad bit with my 3M sanding block. You can find the original post here. I added it to a plain plant shelf that I have in my living room that is in progress.

I originally got the cage for $4.99 and love how it turned out. Looks like I spent way more than that on it. Love it, love it! Here is where is sits waiting for neighbors.

Linking to

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

First 4 Friday

2010-06-18T14:41:00.005-07:00

I have been working on this rag quilt that I started back in April with a group of awesome women. We were to meet once a month an do one step at a time.

So in April, we were to figure out how big we were making the quilt, material and then figure the size of each square piece, batting piece and then how many of those squares in each row horizontally and vertically.

Next month, May, I was out of town in DC, but we were to start sewing an "X" on the front peice, back peice and batting in the middle.

Oh yeah, I forgot to mention, this is probably only like the 3rd thing I have attempted to sew in my whole life. Hence the blog post name, First 4 Friday. So now that I got all the "X" sewed I was on a roll and continued on without waiting for our June gathering. I sewed 1 row together at a time and that is the point I am at currently.

I hope to have this quilt completed by the end of the weekend. Will update as I go. I am glad this quilt is a little forgiving as you can totally tell I am not one that sews.

I want to see what your first attemps where at things. Please share!

Linking up to:

I heart Naptime

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

Goodwill Find Redo

2010-06-17T07:18:00.000-07:00

Do you remember this find the other day from Goodwill?

After some altering, it now looks like this.

How did I do it? Simple. I used a 50% off coupon for Michael's and bought my favorite brand of spray paint, Krylon Satin Ballet Slipper. I sprayed a few coats of this. Probably should have used some primer first since the original color was so dark, but oh well. Live and learn :)! So, after the few coats, this is how it looked.

You could still see some of the original color come through, but I was not going to worry about it since I was going to black wash (?) is that what it is called. I had some black acrylic paint already that I washed out a little with water and added it to all the nooks and crannys and then wiped it off with a paper towel. I applied and wiped off until I got it looking like this.

It didn't come out like I wanted. Maybe you have some suggestions for me. Let me hear it. All for around $5.

Aloha~ Makalani ~LIfe is Good~

Goodwill Finds All for under $16 bucks

2010-06-16T09:20:00.002-07:00

So yesterday, in between an appointment with a client and a committee meeting I was able to kill some time at one of the local goodwill stores on Val Vista and Southern in Mesa. I have never been in this particular store before and it is a fairly new one that I forgot about.

Here are a few of the finds I found. I thought they were a good price and have some ideas for most of the items.

The mason jar was $.69 and the picture frame holder, {I know there is a politically correct word for it, but I can't think of it right now} I got for $1.99.

This birdcage was the first thing I spotted and I probably paid too much for it, but I have a lonely plant shelf that is screaming for it. I need to dust it off and am thinking of repainting it another color like black or something. Oh, by the way, black is my all time favorite color and that is my first choice for everything. So I paid $4.99 for this one.

I am thinking of using this as a jewelry organizer and adding some knobs under that pull down shelf and then possibly adding bigger more dominant hooks and then of course changing the color cuz red will not go with anything I have. Probably black! So predictable. I paid $3.99 for this one.

I also paid $3.99 for this metal shelves. This thing completely folds flat. Not sure what I will do with this one, but another one I had to have.

This one I paid $1.99 for and will paint it pink with a black wash to use for my daughters room although the picture in the middle is not all that feminine. I might do a distressed blue and save it for my sons room.

Anyway, sooo many options, will update you with the redos as soon as I get to them. But I will definitely have something to do this weekend. Can't wait to share.

Linked to:

House of Hepworths

Blue Artichoke Interiors

Somewhat Simple

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

New Giveaway over at A little of this, A little of that

2010-06-15T12:28:00.002-07:00

There is a great new giveaway to enter in at A little of This, A little of That. One of her great sponsors, The Vintage Pearl is offering a $50 gift certificate to their online store.

Up to 5 chances to win, so hurry over to Alittle of This, A little of That to enter.

Aloha~ Makalani ~LIfe is Good~

Lucky Chic

2010-06-15T11:28:00.001-07:00

Have you heard of Lucky chic. I just became a member and you can to. By joining here through this link you will earn 3 lucky chips which you can use to bid with for FREE! Yup, that's right, FREE!

You now have the opportunity to start bidding on the hottest trends in fashion and luxury like a mac computer, tons of various gift cards from every retailer you can think of, and the best part is, they are up to 98% off.

Aloha~ Makalani ~LIfe is Good~

Dry Erase Menu Board

2010-06-14T14:32:00.001-07:00

I saw this and had a frame that was screaming for the redo. This will make a great birthday gift for a friend. Here is my menu board. Thanks to Stephanie over at Under the Table and Dreaming for the great tutorial.

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

Cutesy Headbands

2010-06-12T09:16:00.008-07:00

I was inspired to do this headband by my friend kelli over at LollyJane Boutique. See her fabulous headband recycle project here.

I picked up the plastic headband in a pack of 3 from the dollar store. I also used scrap material I had around the home. It doesn't take much. Headband, material, small piece of felt, glue gun and glue sticks.
First, I wrapped the end of one side of the head band like this

Then I started wrapping the material around the head band until I reached the other end.

Then when I got to the end, I wrapped it toward the inside of the head band like this

I then got a flower and a piece of felt and attached it to the completed headband.

And then it's done!

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

I've linked this project to

Dollar store finds to gifts

2010-06-11T12:40:00.001-07:00

So took a trip to the Dollar Store today and found these brass looking candlesticks

I also found these different shapes and sizes of glass containers. I forgot to take pictures before I filled and embellished them. Oops!

So anyway, I also got the filler from the dollar store as well and seperated it betweem the 3 glass containers. I tied the rafia they used to seal the bag around 2 of the necks of the containers.

I spray painted the candles sticks with Rust-oleum Universal all-surface flat black paint

and they turned out like this

Then, I just glued the glass to the stems and ended up with a great birthday gift for a friend, all for under $10. I am very pleased with how this turned out and will need to get more supplies to make for myself.

Linked up to:

Aloha~ Makalani ~LIfe is Good~

"K" for Kawai

2010-06-10T15:22:00.000-07:00

We were at JoAnn's the other day and Kawai wanted this big "k" for her room. It was $8.99 but we purchased it with our 50% off coupon. It started out a paper craft color. She painted it all black by herself, which she is very proud of and then I embellished with some flowers I had around the craft nook. Added some ribbon and walah! Found a great place above her bed to display.

Aloha~ Makalani ~LIfe is Good~

Seasonal Swaperoos Swap Update

2010-06-08T20:13:00.001-07:00

I got home the other day to find this box of goodies from my secret swap partner waiting by my front door! I love getting packages in the mail. I was so excited to see what kinds of summer things I got.

I love everything Sharon sent. I got a forth of July table runner as well as a plate and some cup cake holders that will inspire my 4th of July table scape. I also got some yummy cotton candy, my FAV and some kool-aid mix as well summery stickies. How did she know I live by stickies, they are all over my desk and folders. I think my daughter claimed ownership of this diva colored nail polish. Thank you sooo much for all the wonderful things Sharon!

To be a part of our next swap, go here for details on how to join.

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

Diaper Wipey Case

2010-06-08T19:59:00.001-07:00

Okay, so after many moons, I finally attempted to make a Diaper Wipey Case. I am very pleased with how it turned out. My Cousin is having her first baby in the next few weeks and this is just one of the goodies I am sending off to her.

I followed the tutorial from Sister Stuff's Blog that you can find here. I found it very easy to follow although there are many bloggers who have their own variations on how to make these.

Hope Moana enjoys it as much as I did making it . Congratulations Mo and Reed.

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

New restock of interchangeable beaded watch bands

2010-06-04T12:46:00.003-07:00

Video link disconnected

Heading down to Contagious to restock these beauties. These interchangeable watch bands are the perfect accessories to complete any outfit. These watch bands are sold separately from watch faces to give you control of your style. New watch faces will be coming soon!

Contagious will be open until 9pm tonight and have "contagious" sales going on. Stop by and check them out and see all their cute and gotta have fashions and furnishings.

Aloha~ Makalani ~Life is Good~

Seasonal Swaperoos Swap

2010-06-01T21:56:00.001-07:00

Here is a sneak peak at what I made for my swap partner. Hope she enjoys it. I also added a few other things. Will reveil more when I know she has had time to view it.
So much fun getting surprises in the mail. If you are interested in join this swap, very low key, not time consuming, and not demanding. Find more information here.

Aloha~ Makalani ~LIfe is Good~

Glamour hats just in...

2010-04-13T22:28:00.001-07:00

I just made up a new batch of these adorable glamor hats. You can pick yours up at Contagious on Main Street in downtown Mesa. They retail for $25 each.

Aloha~
Makala
~LIfe is Good~

Tulle Flower from DIY Dish

2010-03-23T21:25:00.002-07:00

I recently stumbled upon The Diy Dish blog and am hooked! Cutie twin sisters with their own video blog show and great ideas sooo far. I found this tutorial on they blog for organza flowers as well as these flowers made of felt.
My daughter got some stains on her favorite pair of pants just below the knew so I made shorts out of them and with the cut off part made this flower that she can pin to her shirt when wairing her shorts. I didn't have organza so I used tulle, this is kinda tricking with the flame and I think I still need to practice more on this, but you can add these flowers to hats, necklaces, make pins, headbands, the possibilities are endless.

Flower Bib Necklace

2010-03-23T21:24:00.002-07:00

Newest addition to my website. Dress up any outfit. Add a little pop to a plain shirt.

Repurposed old Jeans

2010-03-23T21:17:00.002-07:00

I saw this on a blog and it was sooooo long ago, I can't remember where, but I took an old pair of jeans that lost the button and zipper somehow, and used them to make these darling flowers. So easy and so cute with any jeans outfit. I have one on my fave hat that I use and get all kinds of wonderful comments.

Testing out watch video

2010-03-23T18:22:00.003-07:00

Just testing out this site for video uploads called viddler.

Necklace line

2010-03-18T15:13:00.002-07:00

Link to the newest creations, enjoy.

Black & Grey Necklace

Another Necklace

Flower Slippahs

Aloha~
Makalani

~LIfe is Good~

Fun in the Sun

2010-02-16T11:14:00.001-07:00

This is one of the great reasons for living in Arizona. Not only do you get to enjoy beautiful springs days with awesome friends and make lasting memories, but the desert is so enjoyable during the spring time and the trails and room to ride is endless.

Kawai had tons of fun with Uncle Bobo doing doughnuts in the sand.

Aloha~

Makalani

~LIfe is Good~

Fundraisers to support Lieutenant Eric Shuhandler family

2010-02-05T10:03:00.000-07:00

There has been an outpouring of support for the family of Lt. Shuhandler and the Gilbert Police Department. The Town has compiled a list of fundraisers on our Town Web site. Below is a list of coming fundraising events. Please forward any other fundraisering events to publicinformation@gilbertaz.gov and they can be posted on the Town Web site. Thank you all for your support.

Donations may be made to the Wells Fargo account in Lt. Eric Shuhandler’s name, or to the 100 Club of Arizona. Wells Fargo Bank Memorial Fund Account: 1359531975.

February 1 - 6 - Power Postal at Johnson Ranch is sponsoring a fundraiser in honor of Lt. Eric Shuhandler. During the week of February 1 through February 6, 2010, 10% of all products (excluding shipping/mail) sold will be donated to the Town of Gilbert Police Benevolent Funds.
Where: The store is located on the Northwest corner of Hunt Highway and Bella Vista in the Bella Vista Shopping Center that sits next to the Circle K Gas Station in the Johnson Ranch neighborhood of San Tan Valley.

Friday, February 5 - Buffalo Wild Wings has announced it will donate 25 percent of its sales all day Friday at both its Gilbert locations, the southwest corner of Gilbert and Warner roads and the southeast corner of McQueen and Elliott roads.

February 5 - 6 - Community Rummage sale Friday Feb.5, dawn to dusk and Saturday Feb. 6, dawn to 4pm.
All proceeds are going to the family of Lt. Eric Shuhandler. Donations and items to sell will be accepted.
Where: Gilbert, Val Vista Lakes, N. Voyager Drive and N. Columbus Drive.

Saturday, Feburary 6 - The downtown Gilbert charter school, Gilbert Early College, is hosting a fundraiser from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. this Saturday, February 6th in support of Lt. Eric Shuhandler's two daughters. Refreshments will be provided.
Where: 415 N. Gilbert Road, just south of the Dairy Queen in downtown Gilbert.

Saturday, February 6 - Both Nando's Mexican Cafe's in Mesa & Gilbert will be holding a fundraiser for officer Lt. Eric Shuhandler's family this Saturday, February 6, 2010. 20% of all food sales will be donated to the Shuhandler family.
Where: Nando's is located in Mesa at 6715 E McDowell Rd (SW Corner of Power & McDowell 480-830-8181) and in Gilbert at 3519 E Baseline Rd (Sw Corner of Val Vista & Baseline 480-633-1313).

Tuesday, February 9 - The Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office Memorial Fund and Danny’s Family Car Wash at San Tan Marketplace will be holding a charity car wash to benefit the family of fallen Gilbert Police Lt. Eric Shuhandler. Lt. Shuhandler was shot and killed in the line of duty on January 28, 2010. He served the Gilbert police force for 16 years and leaves behind two young daughters, ages 10 and 12.
Free basic washes will be given from 7:30 am – 2:00 pm for a donation.
All proceeds will directly benefit the Shuhandler family.
Where: Danny’s Family Car Wash, San Tan Village, San Tan Village Pkwy & Market St, 2870 S. Market St., Gilbert, AZ 85296

Aloha~
Makalani

~LIfe is Good~

Mom's Hau'oli Lahanau

2009-09-15T20:49:00.003-07:00

My dad decided to have a surprise birthday party for my mom. Pu'ali documeted the event for a scouting meit badge. Enjoy the photos. We enjoyed ourselves. Happy Birthday Mom!

Enjoy the pictures here

Aloha~
Makalani

~LIfe is Good~

Our August 2009

2009-08-27T11:17:00.003-07:00

It has been a busy time for us this month. Real Estate has been busy. The kids are back in school. Here are a few highlights from the month.

Check out the photos here

Aloha~
Makalani

~LIfe is Good~

Happy 6th Birthday Kawai

2009-07-29T17:30:00.002-07:00

Aloha~
Makalani

~LIfe is Good~

last-minute offer for the D-backs games

2009-07-17T17:36:00.003-07:00

This is a special last-minute offer for the D-backs games on July 26 & July 28.

The D-backs would like to offer a special “D-backs Discount” in the Miller Lite Diamond Club for games against the Pirates and the World Champion Phillies!

Game: D-backs vs Pirates, Sunday July 26th @ 6:40pm

Game: D-backs vs Phillies, Tuesday July 28th @ 6:40pm

Special discount ticket options include:

~Miller Lite Diamond Club Tickets for ONLY $10 each (reg. $30)
~No assigned seats, special lounge seating throughout entire location, full service bar (cash bar), pool tables, and HD TV’s

Simple process to purchase tickets:

1. Employees click on the following link: www.dbacks.com/groups
2. Log in using the following information: sign-in ID – diamond /password – ballgame

For more information or questions, please contactP. J. Keene at 602-462-4111 or pkeene@dbacks.com

Aloha~
Makalani

~LIfe is Good~

4th of July celebrations around the valley

2009-07-01T15:26:00.003-07:00

Friday, July 3
Ahwatukee Star-Spangled Festival and Bicycle Parade
Ahwatukee Community Center
4700 E. Warner Rd, Ahwatukee
6pm
Kick off your holiday weekend early with this great family event. Kids can win prizes for decorating strollers or bicycles in red, white and blue and watch as their creations star in the parade. Rides, tasty barbeque and live music will be featured as well.

Rev, White and Boom
Phoenix International Raceway
7602 S. Avondale Blvd, Avondale
6pm
This free celebration will take guests on a tour of the raceway, showcase live entertainment and build up to a gorgeous fireworks demonstration. Food, drinks and fun activities will also be available.

Third of July Fireworks
Harold’s Cave Creek Corral
6895 E. Cave Creek Rd, Cave Creek
6pm
Get to Harold’s early for drink specials, prizes and delicious barbeque. Fireworks begin at 9 p.m. and will be followed by live entertainment.

Independence Day in Goodyear
Estrella Lakeside Amphitheatre
10300 S. Estrella Pkwy, Goodyear
6:30pm
You’ll want to bring your blanket to this West Valley celebration. Live music, delicious food and an array of activities all lead up to the big fireworks show at 9:15 p.m.

Light up the Sky
Maryvale Baseball Park
3600 N. 51st Ave, Phoenix
7pm
Maryvale Baseball Park opens its doors for Independence Day rides, games, contests and of course a fantastic fireworks display.

Red, White and Boom, a Fireworks Celebration
Ahwatukee Country Club12432 S. 48th St, Ahwatukee
9pm
Ahwatukee is set to celebrate the Fourth in style with a huge fireworks display at their annual Red, White and Boom event. Live music will also be on hand as classic rock and blues band, Blooster and the Mighty perform for guests.

Saturday, July 4Freedom Fest
Heritage Park
600 N. Main St, Florence
10am
Start Independence Day right with Freedom Fest, Florence’s activity-filled holiday celebration. Guests can form teams for the mud volleyball tournament, take part in the horseshoe competition or even join the country-singing contest. A fee will be added for some activities.

July Fourth Tempe Town Lake Festival
Tempe Town Lake
620 N. Mill Ave, Tempe
4pm
Head down to Mill Avenue for one of the biggest Fourth of July celebrations around! The seven-hour event will feature live local entertainment from the Joey Arroyo Band, Calumet and others, followed by the spectacular fireworks show set to patriotic and classical music.

Independence Day Celebration and Fireworks Spectacular
Tumbleweed Park
2250 S. McQueen Rd, Chandler
4pm
If you want some adventure this July 4th, look no further than this Chandler festival. Featuring a 35-foot water slide, a 24-foot rock-climbing wall and a dunk tank, this event is a great way for the whole family to get out and enjoy some holiday fun.

Grand Ol’ Fashioned Picnic
Scottsdale Stadium
7408 E. Osborn, Scottsdale
5pm
Foodies will love this Scottsdale event where they can bring homemade chili to be judged, and stick around for the chili, watermelon and pie-eating contests! Old-fashioned games and patriotic arts and crafts will also keep guests busy.

July Fourth Celebration
Eldorado Park
2311 N. Miller Rd, Scottsdale
5pm
Bring the family out to Eldorado Park for a tug-of-war competition, crafts and even a watermelon-eating contest! This free event won’t host any fireworks display, so plan on finding the light show somewhere nearby.

“Old Fashioned” Fourth of July Spectacular
Rockin R Ranch
6136 E. Baseline Rd, Mesa
5:30pm
Celebrate the holiday weekend with an all-you-can-eat barbeque dinner, a show by the Rockin R Wranglers and, of course, fireworks. Gold panning and wagon rides will also be featured at this one-of-a-kind celebration.

Star-Spangled Shootout
Rawhide at Wild Horse Pass
5700 W. North Loop Rd, Chandler
5:30pm
Take your cowboys and cowgirls out to Rawhide for their Independence Day celebrations. There will be live music, face painting, costume contests and aerial fireworks to keep families entertained.

Fabulous Phoenix Fourth
Steele Indian School Park
300 E. Indian School Rd, Phoenix
6pm
You won’t want to miss the largest free fireworks show in the state at the Fabulous Phoenix 4th. There will also be a giant misting area, inflatable rides and even a classic car show.

Mesa’s Fourth of July Celebration: This event may have been cancelled: Check before you go.
Mesa Community College
1833 W. Southern Ave, Mesa
6pm
Stop by this East Valley event for a simple celebration of the Fourth. There will be food and drinks, live entertainment and kiddie rides all leading up to the big fireworks show.

Star-Spangled Fourth
Goodyear Ballpark
1933 S. Ballpark Way, Goodyear
6pm
While munching on ballpark treats partygoers can enjoy live tunes from rockers Cold Shott and the Hurricane Horns. The West Valley’s most popular fireworks show, The APS Fireworks Spectacular, concludes the festivities.

Gilbert Old-Fashioned 4th of July Celebration
Mesquite High School
500 S. McQueen Road, Gilbert
4- 10:30 pm, fireworks scheduled 9 pm.
Contests, games, inflatables, food, rides, and novelties
May be a charge for parking, $5 or under.. Bring cash for rides, amusements, refreshments
For more information, visit the Gilbert Rodeo Park web site. Aloha~
Makalani

~LIfe is Good~

High School Musical @ Broadway Palms Theatre

2009-06-22T15:05:00.004-07:00

The other night Kawai and I went to Broadway Palms Theater for the dinner & show for Disney's High School Musical. It was great. The show was awesome. I was very impressed with the staff and the performance. Kawai got to take pictures with Gabriela & Troy. Which according to her this week are her favorite people in the world. We had great center seats and enjoyed everyone's company at the table. Disney's Jungle Book is playing during lunchtime, I wouldn't mind checking that out. You can view their show line up at http://www.broadwaypalmswest.com/

Aloha~
Makalani

~LIfe is Good~

Goldfield Mine Arizona

2009-06-22T14:48:00.003-07:00

A couple of weekends ago some friends of our from Hawaii took us along on a trip to Goldfield Ghost Town. That was an adventure. It just a few miles north east of Mesa on the way to Canyon Lake. Be sure to stop by, you might be lucking enough to find some gold. There is a steak house there that hosts some of the best views for an Arizona sunset. It's called Mammoth Steakhouse. I am hoping to use a gift certificate I have in the next month. I'll let you know. We went on a mine tour deep below the earths surface with an informative guide. We were also able to hitch a ride on a train that took us around the property and gave gorgeous views of the Superstition Mountains. Our driver (what is he called?), of the train had a wealth of information about the Superstitions. I thought it was a great way to spend the afternoon, but when it gets cool again. I have lived here in Arizona now for almost 20 years and do not take advantage of the history this state has to offer.

Aloha~
Makalani

~LIfe is Good~

Phoenix Zoo this summer FREE

2009-06-12T09:00:00.001-07:00

Kids Can Play It Cool at the Phoenix Zoo This SummerFREE daytime admission to kids 12 and under through August 31
PHOENIX – For the first time in its history, the Phoenix Zoo is offering free daytime admission to kids 12 and under for an entire summer. Valley youngsters will be able to enjoy a summer full of wild water play at Yakulla Caverns and Leapin' Lagoon, great experiences at Monkey Village and the Forest of Uco, plus all of the other wild fun at the Zoo – for free.
"We know that families are looking for fun and affordable things to do and we always want to be the best option, " said Executive Vice President Jim Brewer." We have such a wide variety experiences to offer that we truly are the best entertainment value available for families. With kids being free this summer, that just makes the value even greater."Zoo guests can also enjoy earlier operating hours to take advantage of cooler morning temperatures. The Zoo is open 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. on weekdays and 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends and holidays.The recent addition of Yakulla (yah-cool-yuh) Caverns to the Zoo's water play offerings makes the Phoenix Zoo a great place to play it cool during the hot summer months. Celebrating its first official summer, this innovative play area features a large realistic cave with slides, stalagmites and stalactites, cave creatures, a special waterfall, and tons of room to splash around. Since its opening in September of 2008, it has quickly become a favorite spot for Zoo guests. Yakulla is an Incan word that means "water place."
"It's important for us to keep things as cool as possible for our guests during the summer, " Brewer said. "Opening a little earlier, turning on our misting systems throughout the Zoo, adding a great place like Yakulla – it all helps create a fun opportunity for families to get outside a little even while it's hot."
Yakulla Caverns will also be open during Starry Safari, the Zoo's successful summer nighttime event that is expanding to include both Friday and Saturday nights this year. Starting June 5 through August 8, the Zoo will host Starry Safari every Friday and Saturday night from 6-9 p.m. Incorporating animal experiences like Money Village, the African Savanna and special animal encounters along with plenty of fun activities with water play, inflatables and other experiences, Starry Safari is an affordable night of cool fun for the whole family. Admission to Starry Safari is only $5 per person, $4 for Zoo members. Children 2 and under are free.
http://www.phoenixzoo.org/events/special_events/special_events_detail.aspx?ARTICLE_ID=100697

You can find out more information at Phoenix Zoo's website.

Aloha~
Makalani

~LIfe is Good~

AZ MLS takes stand on "Scraping and Indexing"

2009-06-11T22:41:00.002-07:00

For Immediate Release:
Arizona MLS Takes Stand on "Scraping" and "Indexing"
RECENT NAR INTERPRETATION CREATES COMPETITVE DISADVANTAGE FOR REALTORS®
PHOENIX, AZ – JUNE 10, 2009 – The Arizona Regional Multiple Listing Service (ARMLS) is taking a stand on a recent National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) ruling on the technical interchangeability of "scraping" and "indexing" as it pertains to display of the IDX Database on the Internet. A recent controversial interpretation issued through the Center for Real Estate Technology (CRT), NAR’s technology arm, advised members that "scraping" and "indexing" are in effect the same practice and represent misappropriation of the IDX Database. ARMLS believes that this ruling places NAR members at a distinct and serious competitive disadvantage.
ARMLS maintains that the CRT opinion does not factor in the end use of the "scraped" and "indexed" listing data. It fails to distinguish between benign and malicious "scraping" and "indexing." These practices are termed benign if they provide intended benefits to the consumer and the buyers and sellers whom the REALTOR® serves, and are not in conflict with the ARMLS IDX Policy. They are deemed malicious if they utilize the listing data in a manner foreign to the original intent of the REALTOR® and the property owner, and are incompatible with the ARMLS IDX Policy. The practice of "scraping" or "indexing" by search engines for the purpose of displaying or indexing the data for consumer property search, and which ultimately directs the consumer back to its source, is benign, and is in sync with the REALTOR’S® intention when displaying listings on the Internet. When a third party, e.g. a search engine, through "scraping" or "indexing" misappropriates and uses the listing data for purposes not intended by the property owner or REALTOR® , these practices become malicious and should be prohibited. Any interpretation by NAR prohibiting REALTORS® from allowing search engines, such as Google, from benign "scraping" and "indexing" listing data puts the REALTOR® at a distinct competitive disadvantage.
The ARMLS IDX Policy contains the statement that "IDX Brokers must protect the IDX Database from misappropriation by employing reasonable efforts to monitor and prevent "scraping" or other unauthorized accessing, reproduction or use of the IDX Database." The interpretation of this policy was not intended to discourage dissemination of listing information through search engine indexing or to discourage brokers or their permitted licensees who offer listings from optimizing their listings to achieve higher search engine placement. ARMLS supports and encourages a change in NAR’s interpretation of "scraping" and "indexing" that factors in the results of such activities and removes any competitive disadvantage that NAR’s current opinion creates.
About ARMLS: Arizona Regional Multiple Listing Service is the REALTOR® owned listing service for central Arizona. ARMLS provides services to more than 32,000 brokers and agents of the Phoenix, Scottsdale, West Maricopa, Southeast Valley, and Western Pinal County Associations of REALTORS® and their affiliates. For more information about ARMLS, please visit www.armls.com or contact Bob Bemis, CEO, 130 S. Priest Dr, Suite 101, Tempe, AZ 85281, at bob.bemis@armls.com or 480-303-7224.

To find out more information on "Scraping & Indexing" click here. http://files.flexmls.com/az/20090611172428352344000000.pdf

Aloha~
Makalani

~LIfe is Good~

Real Estate is Movng.

2009-06-10T07:47:00.002-07:00

Have you noticed multiple offers on bank owned and short sale homes? I have. Real Estate in Arizona is picking up. I was doing a neighborhood market analysis and the median home price was up $4K in May from April. That is great. Hope you are all having a great day!
Aloha~
Makalani

~LIfe is Good~

Use $8000 tax credit as down payment for 1st time home buyers

2009-05-31T00:21:00.003-07:00

HUD just released that you are indeed able to use the Obama $8000 Tax credit as a down payment towards your first time home.

You can find complete information about if you qualify and more in the release article. And choose Donovan announces Recovery Act's homebuyer tax credit.....

Aloha~
Makalani

~LIfe is Good~

Need to keep the kiddos busy during the summer....

2009-05-20T16:28:00.003-07:00

I got an email about programs the City of Mesa is offering. See the em

The City of Mesa Parks and Recreation Summer programs are filling up fast. If you have not registered your child for a summer filled with fun and activity, please do so now! Remember, school is out tomorrow. Programs begin on Tuesday! If you visit, www.mesaaz.gov, and click on the time out brochure you will see the list of recreation programs being offered for pre-school, elementary and teens. If your family is receiving any govt assistance or your children receive free or reduced lunch through MPS, you may qualify for a 50% fee assistance! Those who do qualify for the fee assistance cannot register by tele-trac or web trac, your registration form must be faxed, emailed or brought to the Parks and Recreation Office at 200 S Center. If you would need more than the 50% reduction, please contact Cindy Hunt, at 480 644-2863 for further information. Summer Recreation Programs that qualify for fee assistance are limited to the following programs:
Kidtastics-Jefferson and Webster Recreation Centers
Boredom Busters-Falcon Hill, Zaharis, Bush
Washington Kids Club-Washington Elementary School
Jefferson Recreation Center Xtreme Summer Adventure
Webster Recreation Center Xtreme Summer Adventure
Volleyball Camp
Speed and Agility Clinics
If you have any questions, contact me at cindy.hunt@mesaaz.gov or 480-644-2863.
Hope to see your kids this summer!
Cindy HuntRecreation Supervisor
Phone: 480-644-2863
Fax:480-644-2698
cindy.hunt@mesaaz.gov
"You don't stop laughing when you grow old, you grow old when you stop laughing"

Aloha~
Makalani

~LIfe is Good~

Do I qualify to take the $8000 home buying tax credit?

2009-05-13T17:37:00.003-07:00

First-Time Homebuyer Credit: Scenarios

S1. If a single person (Taxpayer A) qualifies as a first-time homebuyer at the time he/she purchases a home with someone (Taxpayer B) that is not a first-time homebuyer and then later that year they marry each other, is the credit still allowed?

A. Eligibility for the first-time homebuyer credit is determined on the date of purchase. If Taxpayer A, a first-time homebuyer, buys a house and then later that year marries Taxpayer B, not a first-time homebuyer, the credit is allowable to Taxpayer A. Taxpayer A may take the maximum credit.

S2. Taxpayer A is a single first-time home buyer. Taxpayer B (parent) cosigns for A and does not qualify. Both names are on the mortgage. Can Taxpayer A claim the credit and, if so, how much?

A. Yes. Taxpayer B is not a first-time homebuyer and cannot claim any portion of the credit, but A may claim the entire credit ($7,500 for purchase in 2008; $8,000 for purchase in 2009), if the home was purchased as Taxpayer A's primary residence.

S3. A taxpayer owned her principal residence. Several years ago, she decided to relocate to a rented apartment, but did not sell the former residence. Instead, she rented it out to tenants. Now the taxpayer plans to buy another house and make it her new principal residence. Does she qualify for the first-time homebuyer credit?

A. A taxpayer who owned rental property within the past three years is still eligible for the credit. The taxpayer cannot have owned and used a home as his or her principal residence within the last three years.

S4. If husband and wife wanted to sell the home that the wife owned when they got married, and the husband had not owned a home within the past three years, could he qualify as a first-time homebuyer for the credit even though the wife would not qualify?

A. No. The purchase date determines whether a taxpayer is a first-time homebuyer. Since the wife had ownership interest in a principal residence within the prior three years, neither taxpayer may take the first-time homebuyer credit. Section 36(c)(1) of the Internal Revenue Code requires that the taxpayer and the taxpayer's spouse not have an ownership interest in a principal residence within the prior three years from the date of purchase. The husband may not take the credit even if he filed on a separate return.

For this and more information please visit the IRS webpage.

Aloha~
Makalani

~LIfe is Good~

Maka'z Home

More Burlap Madness

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Mele Kalikimaka

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Elmer's craft night

Safeway Scores

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Chalk it Trio

Puffy Pom Poms

Hello strangers!

VALENTINE SWAP

Valentine Swap Join in!

Wreathy love

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Cucumber Kim Chee

1st week update for eBay

Patterned Pumpkin

Slight Ebay Mistake

$1 Lamp

Smokin deals!

Newest hats added to my Home

Seasonal Swaperoos: ~Mahalo Beth~

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It's a lolly Halloween!

At home with my cloche

Hello, Anyone Home?

Face Lift

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Seaweed Tank

Temple Blocks

Accordian Flower Tutorial

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Thank you! Thank you!

Goodwill Finds All under $8

Silver Bowl Makeover

Decorative Balls

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Jewelry Hanging Organizer

Revamped brassy Owl

Another great shopping trip at Goodwill

File cabinet labeler

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4th of July Centerpiece

4th of July in the valley of the Sun, Arizona

Star Spangled Wreath

Featured on Simpsonized Crafts and then some

Kawai and Kempo

Into Action, Finally!

I'm helping to find a cure!

4th of July Headbands

I'm a *Winner* Thanks to Somewhat Simple **Update**

AZ Bloggers Tour de Thrift

Update on Goodwill Finds from 6/15th

First 4 Friday

Goodwill Find Redo

Goodwill Finds All for under $16 bucks

New Giveaway over at A little of this, A little of that

Lucky Chic

Dry Erase Menu Board

Cutesy Headbands

Dollar store finds to gifts

"K" for Kawai

Seasonal Swaperoos Swap Update

Diaper Wipey Case

New restock of interchangeable beaded watch bands

Seasonal Swaperoos Swap

Glamour hats just in...

Tulle Flower from DIY Dish

Flower Bib Necklace

Repurposed old Jeans

Testing out watch video

Necklace line

Fun in the Sun

Fundraisers to support Lieutenant Eric Shuhandler family

Mom's Hau'oli Lahanau

Our August 2009

I'm a Winner Thanks to Somewhat Simple Update