When a Man Loves a Woman

I love my husband. I love him to tears. This morning I woke up to a few things that I expected but reminded me of just how much this man of mine means to me.

Every V-Day, Movie Star gives me flowers and a card. Pretty standard for today, but this morning was a little different. Those roses there are from the climbing rose bushes outside our apartment building. Okay, you say. So what? Well, I'm telling you! Climbing roses are my absolute favorite and every time the Spring comes around, I get so excited to watch them reach their full bloom.

Over the past few weeks, as they have begun this transformation, I have oo'd and aw'd over the loveliness I see from my kitchen window. So waking up to a few of them lying on the dining room table said so much to me:

"I pay attention to the words you speak."

"I know you love pretty things, and desire to bring those things to you."

"I'd rather give you flowers that have meaning, than spend money on one's that don't."

"Because I took my time to choose and pluck each little rose, my time is not more valuable than your smile."

And then there's the card. Most greeting cards these days are cheesy or full of prewritten poetry. Though you can find cards which express how you're feeling, sometimes it comes across impersonal. In fact, I couldn't even find one for Movie Star this year! I had to take a blank card and make it my own. Anyway, in Movie Star's card it was the few simple words I saw in his terrible handwriting that struck my heart: "All I can guarantee is that I love you and you will always be happy no matter where we are and no matter what we are doing." He and I have been through a big hot mess the last two years and we simply can't see a way out. By him telling me this, he is saying that he will do anything and everything he can to make sure I'm happy every day.

But don't get the wrong idea about this guy. When he gets mushy he gets uncomfortable too, so he has to add something funny to it. After I told him about the Vintage Valentine's Cards I was going to write about we laughed hysterically at one of them (the very last one). So at the bottom of the card he wrote:

"P.S. Fork over your heart....." I laughed until I cried. Then I gave him a big kiss.

What a man......

Fabulous Etsy Finds: Valentine Gifts

Oh Etsy how do I love you, let me count the ways.  One) You are always unabashedly yourself.  Two) Your quirky style helps me discover interests I never knew I had.  Three) You encourage creativity by providing a marketplace foe artists from all walks of life.  Four) I can always find something with you that brings me joy for less than $20.  Five) You make Valentine's Day more beautiful with your funky, cool awww-inspiring finds.  Have a look at a few lovely creations that I want to give/get this Monday.

Vintage Pale Rose Ring



$22



Yoda In Love Card

$3.50

 Love Birds Necklace

$18.50

Lovey Owl Print

$10

Yes Or No Slap Bracelet

$25

Rustic Barn Carving

$12.50

Initial Ring

$18.99

Mustache Glasses


$26

Valentine IPod Sleeve

$10

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8 Unique Last Minute Valentine's Day Gifts on the Web

Valentine's Day is just around the corner, and for those who haven't bought a gift yet for your loved one, have no fear, I've found 8 gifts from all around the world wide web for you. Some are fun, some are romantic and all are unique.

1.) Personalized M&M's

This isn't a new idea, but that doesn't make it any less cool. Write a message to your significant other or just put their pretty little face on it. They won't forget this gift anytime soon, and will probably want to keep a few for the rest of year. You can find them on Mymms.com.

2.) World's Largest Gummy Bear

Weighing in at 4.5 LB, this chewy candy will back childhood memories, and the size will make it something an adult can appreciate. For the boyfriend/girlfriend expecting chocolates, this is sure to surprise them and bring a smile. You can find them on Amazon.com as well as gourmet candy shops near you.

3.) Lovopoly

This is a cool twist on Monopoly which is designed to set the mood for couples. It can also be personalized by adding your own pictures and choosing the names of the properties. If you don't want something detailed, there is a standard setup that all couples can enjoy. You can find it on Lovopoly.com and numerous other websites.

4.) Love Pillowcases

These adorable things also bring back simple and childlike love. Hopefully this charm will rub off on you and your husband/wife each time you climb into bed, especially on Valentine's Day. They can be found in several different designs on several sites including Amazon.com.

5.) Photo Rubix Cube

For some entertainment that will last, this is a fun gift for guys or girls. As you can tell by the name, it is a customizable toy where the cubes are your picture rather than colors. There are some that are digital as well that can display up to 10 pictures. This is perfect for your nerdy spouse that thinks they're much smarter ;-) and is sweet and sentimental at the same time. You can find it on Kleargear.com as well as several others.

6.) Fake Roses

I know this sounds odd, but there is a reason behind it. There's a great line that can only be said with fake flowers. It may be corny, but if you're sentimental, it is sweet. The line is simply 'I will love until the last petal falls off'. Not too shabby, eh? This is a very simple gift and as people are scrambling to find roses under $70 on Valentine's Day, you can wander into a craft store or buy more high-end silk flowers on Alforal.com or Overstock.com.

7.) American Gothic Painting by Grant Wood Recreation

For those with a sense of humor, this a the perfect silly gift. Solidify your relationship by immortalizing it in the work of art that is the epitome of bland. If you want to make your boyfriend, laugh, you have found one of the most unique ways to. You can find it on Findgift.com.

8.) Create Your Own Chocolate

I love this website dearly. At Createmychocolate.com you can build chocolate bars your way, or should I say your Valentine's way. You can choose your chocolate type, confections, spices, contents and decorations. Ingredients range from rose petals, Cinnamon Toast Crunch and bacon to gummy bears, mint leaves and gold flakes. It's truly the best source for chocolate. Tell your loved special someone that you got them chocolate and then surprise them with this amazing treat.

It's the last major shopping day on the internet before Valentine's Day, so buy quick and good luck! If you buy one of these gifts, I hope it makes you look as if you put some considerable thought into it.

Thursday Throwback: Valentine's Cards

With Valentine's Day almost upon us, it's time to really start thinking about your valentine cards. Whether it be a card for that special someone in your life or fun and cool cards for your kids to take with them to school, it's always a treat to find something that no one else out there will be giving to their Valentines. But where, among the hubub of lovey-dovey cards and silly Spongebob Squarepants valentines, can you find something that stands alone.

If that's where you find yourself these days I have a really great solution for you: Vintage Valentine's Cards. If you have never seen some of the old cards for yourself, you have to take a look because not only are the images so fabulous but the sayings are so unique, romantic and even a bit funny! I am going to get one or two for myself this year.

Image courtesy VintageHolidayCrafts.com

Image courtesy VintageHolidayCrafts.com

Image courtesy VintageHolidayCrafts.com

This one is my absolute favorite because, well, just read it and you'll see for yourself. To me it's hilarious that a creepy little girl is peering out from behind a large fork saying:

Thursday Throwback: Valentine's Dresses

As women well know, Valentine's Day is a day for being pretty. We love to get all dolled up for our men (or maybe just ourselves). It's a day to show how much you love someone and to let them adorn you will the same love. Now, you don't have to put on a dress, a bunch of jewelry or get your hair professionally styled but..... Why Not!? It's the one day of the year you get to go out and pick up the most perfect dress you've ever seen. If vintage fashions make you excited, then these little beauties just may do the trick.

The little girl print on this Vivien of Holloway 1940's dress is only a mask dear ladies. Do not let her guise fool you, she is a foxy bombshell and she can't help but reveal it. This style is so fantastically vintage that it may be too much for some us to pull off on a random Valentine's dinner. But I'm sure that those of you who drape yourselves in this sort of attire regularly could easily get away with it. Plus, who - when you're wearing this dress - will care what century it is from?

Now this sweet petunia from ModCloth has that modest 1950's look that is simply to-die-for. It is perfect for those of you who love a vintage hint while still maintaining your classic charm. If you love the style but find it a bit to plain for you, why not add some fantastic jewelry, a simple hat or floral headband to give your look some umph! The soft pink reminds one of flushed cheeks and kissable lips. Don't think the 1950's were a time for prudes now.

The 1950's and 60's fashions were very similar in their tight waists and pleated skirts. And this floral ModCloth dress is no exception. The print is so feminine and soft that I would love to toss this on any day I just want to feel super pretty. But when wearing this for Valentine's, you just may find yourself on a day date at the park, a stroll through an arboretum, a lunch with your single gals or a night out dancing your vintage heels away.

I have never been a huge fan of many 1970's fashions, but this flowing bit of floral beauty from PinTuckStyle has my name written all over it. The 1970's were a time for pleats, long sleeves and high neck-lines (not me), but isn't there something a bit seductive about the sheer fabric just barely covering what lies beneath? It reminds me that we don't have to show it all off. Men like when we hide those private areas, while still hinting at them (it gives them something to imagine). Plus as a breeze drifts by, the fabrics softness will flutter over your skin and remind that man of just how smooth you are. The belt adds a nice touch too. Cinching in your waistline gives non-curvy women something to elude. Whoever thought at first glance this dress was seductive?

Now this dress certainly packs a punch. So I like to call the Pink "POW! ZAM! PUNCH!" Dress. Obviously, this is an 80's throwback and some of you may be thinking, "Yes, throw it back there!" But despite the florescent pink and cutesy leather bow this dress is just a strapless piece of tightness. Which will most definitely look best on those of you who have the slenderest of waists as well as a booty for days. The rest of us can just throw on some spanks and killer heels to offset our lack of a Barbie body. I may not be able to wear it, but I love it just the same!

Tuesday Giveaway: $20 Amazon Giftcard

Welcome to another edition of Inspiring Pretty's Tuesday Giveaway! This time we are giving away a $20 giftcard for Valentine's Day. Instead of giving away a Valentine's gift, we're letting you choose what to get! You can use it for this or this, maybe this or toward this, hopefully not this, this or this and certainly for this. Whatever you choose, we've got you covered.

To enter, follow us on blogger and leave a comment below telling us what you want to buy for Valentine's Day.

You can earn one additional entries for each of the following things:

1.) Follow us on Twitter @inspiringpretty

2.) Like us on Facebook here

3.) Mention @inspiringpretty in a tweet on Twitter

We will be picking a winner at random on Tuesday, Feb 8th and announce the winner then. Entries end 12 am PST on Tuesday, Feb 8th. Sorry, the contest is only open to U.S. and Canadian residents. Please leave us a valid email, so we can contact you and good luck!

Valentine Chocolate Delights

Valentines Day means many things to many people. Love, roses, soul mates, romance; but to most of us it is just a great excuse to eat lots of yummy chocolate. And if you're like me, its one of your only opportunities all year to indulge with abandon. So don't waste this day on cheap, stale chocolate. Go all out for your loved one (and possibly yourself). There are always the gourmet chain standbys like See's and Godiva. But if you're looking to branch out, here are a few lesser known confectionery connoisseurs.

William Dean Chocolates

These chocolates are truly a work of art. From the stylish magnetic closing box to the colorfully handcrafted pieces. And with flavors like Banana's Foster, Grapefruit & Tarragon, Port with Fig & Plum and Rosemary Caramel, a box of these can be quite the culinary experience. My favorite flavor is the Tropical Caramel, mmmm. As you may have guessed, this collection is probably not for your meat-and-potatoes, never-wants-to-try-new-things  kind of guy. The flavors are sophisticated and may be an acquired taste for some. If you are ready to take this flavorful carpet ride, pull out your wallet because like most gourmet chocolates, it's gonna cost you. A 20-piece box sells for $50. Or you could cash in on a little televised saving. HSN.com has the same box for $40. They also have on-air V-Day specials today (2/01) featuring WD Chocolates, so you may be able to get a better deal there.

Mignon Chocolates

I love Mignon Chocolates for several reasons. One, you can build your own box so you're not stuck with 'those chocolates' that no one wants to eat. Two, they're pretty. Three, they come in a variety tempting flavors. Four, at $1/piece they are reasonably priced. And five, They are ridiculously delicious. They don't have that hard chocolate shell and sugary sweet filling that Russell Stover has accustomed us to. The shell has the pliable texture of fine chocolate and the filling is just sweet enough with a hint of flavor.

Fannie May

Perhaps its the mid-west girl in me, but I can't make a chocolate list without mentioning Fannie May. The flavors are not as refined and the pieces are not as beautiful as some. But if you are looking for a basic box of quality chocolates then this is the place for you. Ideal for the aforementioned meat-and-potatoes guy. You get perfectly confected creams and caramels without straying into the unknown world flavor experimentation. They come in a variety of beautiful boxes and offer a create-your-own-box option as well. They cost about $26 for a 1lb box (about 28 pieces).

Leonidas

If you're in a major city, chances are you are familiar with these freshly crafted Belgian candies. They are the Dean & Deluca of the chocolate world and it is easy to see why. They offer a variety of daring flavors like Tequila Sunrise and Africa Pearl, as well as the traditional fresh butter creams, ganaches and pralines all prepared to world famous standards. A typical 1lb box runs about $36.

Valentine's Day Cookies

Sweetheart Sugar Cookies

What You'll Need:

• 1 cup butter, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract
• 1 large egg
• 2 1/4 cups flour
• 1/4 tsp. salt
• 2 tsp. meringue powder
• Pink sanding sugar

1. Preheat oven to 350. Beat butter, sugar, and vanilla with an electric mixer at medium speed until fluffy. Add egg, beating until blended.

2. Combine flour and salt; gradually add to butter mixture, beating just until blended.

3. Divide dough into 2-equal portions; flatten each portion into a disc and chill 10 minutes.

4. Place one dough disk on a heavily floured surface, and roll to 1/8-inch thickness. Cut with a heart-shaped cookie cutter. Place 2 inches apart on lightly greased baking sheets. Repeat procedure with remaining dough disk.

5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Let cool on baking sheets 5 minutes; transfer to wire racks, and let cool completely (approx. 30 minutes).

6. Whisk together meringue powder and 2 tbsp. water. Brush cookies with mixture, or dip cookies in mixture, and sprinkle with sanding sugar.

For a fun touch, make both big and little sized cookies!

Valentine Puzzle Cookie

What You'll Need:

• 3 cups flour
• 1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract
• 1/2 lb. confectioners sugar, sifted
• 2 1/2 tbsp. meringue powder
• 1/4 cup water
• red or pink food coloring

1. Preheat oven to 350. Beat sugar and butter until fluffy, about 5 minutes. Add eggs and vanilla.

2. Mix dry ingredients in a separate bowl, then add to butter mixture. Mix well.

3. Place a handful of freshly made dough between two sheets of parchment paper, then roll to desired thickness. Repeat with rest of dough. Place rolled dough and parchment on cookie sheets and refrigerate for 10 minutes or longer.

4. Once chilled, cut dough with puzzle cookie cutter and place on lightly greased baking sheet.

5. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then cool.

6. Mix confectioners sugar, meringue and water until smooth a creamy; if icing is too thick, add more water. Once desired thickness is achieved add a drop or two of food coloring.

7. Once cookies are cool, begin piping icing around edges and then fill in. Once the layer has set (approx. 30 min.) add names and/or decorate further.

Sweetheart Sugar Cookie Lollipop's

These are so simple to make that it is unbelievable! Here you go:

1. Use one of the basic sugar cookie recipe's above and follow the instructions through the chilling.

2. Once chilled, roll out dough to 1/8 in. thickness. Cut with heart shaped cookie cutter.

3. When your cookies are cut, place them on a lightly greased cookie sheet far enough apart for the sticks to fit.

4. Gently place a chop stick down the center of the cookie. Place another cut cookie on top of the stick like a sandwich. Bake at 350 for 8-10 minutes.

5. Let cookies cool completely before decorating with you favorite icing concoction!