11.26.2011

Winners!

First off, I have to say that (in regards to my last post) you all have great taste in Thanksgiving food! I agree with my "Auntie Em" (September) that the very best is a warm, buttery roll ... which, I didn't actually get this year. I did have rolls with butter, but none of them were fresh and warm, which was sad ... but luckily, that's not something I only ever get on Thanksgiving! As far as "Thanksgiving only" food goes, I agree with Joni - stuffing is delicious! See how addicted to bread I must be? :P

Ok, on to a subject that won't exacerbate the condition of my rapidly expanding waistline. :)

Who's ready for me to announce these winners?


...(1)...

Bag of your choice from Luckycann {Up to $55 value}


#116
Emily @ The Little Things In Life!


...(3)...

Gift Certificate for Elegant Rose Boutique {$30 value}


#10
Maria @ All American Girl!


...(5)...

11"x17" "The Beauty We Love" Letterpress Print from Happy Deliveries {$20 value}


#95
Emily M Voss!


... ... ...

BONUS PRIZES

Scentsy scent circle of your choice (for the car)




Surprise gift for spreading the news about the party
(from me) :)



Email me at abigail[at]abigailkraft[dot]com for further instructions on how to claim your prize. :)

Congratulations to all of you!


Posted by Abigail Kraft at 8:03 PM Comments

11.25.2011

Because I'm Makin' Pie, That's Why!

You might have noticed that I haven't announced the winners for the Authentic People Blog Party giveaways yet ... and I DID promise you I'd get that done today.

*gulp*

However, I've been busy baking pies for about the past 4 hours, and was gone most of the afternoon, so unfortunately I've been delayed. I promise I will post the winners at some point tomorrow. So sorry, loves! I hope you're happy to be patient with me. *cheesy grin*

Happy Belated Thanksgiving!

What's your favorite Thanksgiving dish?
Posted by Abigail Kraft at 10:41 PM Comments

11.11.2011

Authentic People Blog Party!

The day has come for our Authentic People Blog Party to begin! I'm so excited to get to visit all of you and get to know you better!



Here's how this works...

{write a post}

Introduce yourself. If you want, tell us a bit about who you are & why you blog.

Then, tell us some of those weird things that not everybody knows - the things that make you unique.

Below is a list of questions that you can answer any or all of. Or, if you're feeling creative, answer some of your own questions!

Make it wordy or brief, picture-full or not, fun or funny...whatever floats your boat!

{post your link}

At the bottom of this post, you'll see a form where you can enter the link to your blog post. Make sure to add your post to the list, so we can find you!

{meet new people}

Hop around and get to know some of the authentic people who are joining in. It's more fun if everyone comments on a few blogs!

{win a prize}

The day after the blog party ends (November 25) I'll be announcing the lucky winners of six fantastic giveaways, including a items from each of my wonderful sponsors (see sidebar)! Plus, one bonus prize will be awarded to someone who shares about the blog party via Facebook or Twitter, and comments on this post telling me.

See complete list of prizes here!

And so, it begins!

{Click here for a list of questions you can copy and paste into your party post}

Hello, I'm your host...Abigail. :)



1} What's the nerdiest/geekiest/weirdest thing about you?
Where to start? My brother, Jared, always likes to tease me about the "nerd cackle" that slips out of me sometimes ... but overall, the nerdiest thing about me would have to be my adoration for all things Apple.



I even name my Apple products. My iPhone 4 is Carl Mason, and my iMac is Rico Phillip "Robbie" Bates III. They're not the first of their kind either. I've been hooked on Apple products since I was about 12 years old.
2} If you could live in a fictional universe from any book, movie, or television show, what would it be?
Well, this would have to be the second nerdiest thing about me. I would choose to live inside of Smallville. Lois and I would fail at making pancakes together, and then I'd go and geek out at Watchtower with Chloe Sullivan. After that, I'd have a little chat with Clark, BEGGING him to tell Lois that he's the red-blue blur (even though I know he's only trying to protect her), and in the end, we'd all sit around the Christmas tree in Clark's living room, drinking steaming mugs of black coffee and wearing awesome Christmas sweaters, talking about all of our greatest memories, and how family is so important.

Yes. Smallville.

(NOTE: For those of you who watch Smallville, I haven't seen season 10 yet, so please, no spoilers!!! That ... might just kill me.)
3} Little or big, practical or frivolous, what is one of your favorite items in your house?
This wall. In my room.



Something about it completely thrills me. Not totally sure what, but for sure, something! Ha!
4} Do you like animated movies? If so, what is your favorite?
YES! Oh my word, yes I do. Some of my absolute favorite movies are animated. "Shrek" is a consistent favorite of mine - I love that entire series with a passion. I've probably seen those movies 50 times each. Ha! However, I'd have to say my all-time favorite animated movie is "Ratatouille". Love it love it love it.
5} What is your favorite household chore?
At first, I thought this was an easy question, because I love doing laundry. But then, I remembered vacuuming, and I got all confused. So, I'll just say vacuuming AND laundry. Final answer! (P.S. Fun fact...my brother and I wrote a goofy song and made a video about our amazing Oreck Forever Series Gold vacuum. Check it out here if you want to see the most epically awful AMAZING salsa dancing ever!)
6} What's your favorite thing to get at Starbucks (or your favorite coffee shop)?
That really depends on my mood. I think my consistent favorite is a triple grande peppermint white mocha with half the syrup, but I love them all! Triple grande caramel macchiatos might be tied for first, though.


7} What is your favorite pizza topping?
If I had my way, every pizza would be made with pepperoni, anchovies, and jalapeños! I like strong flavors.
8} Waffles or pancakes?
WAFFLES! Breakfast, lunch, or dinner, waffles.


9} Do you like to play games? If so, what is your favorite?
I love to play games. Especially with my momma, who is just as competitive as I am. My favorite game is probably Boggle. Mainly because I can't really remember the last time anyone beat me at Boggle. I'm a warrior. :]
10} Have you ever let anyone win a game?
Only a couple of times. Hardly ever. I like to win too much.
11} Have you ever dyed your hair?
No, but the fact that I'm 18 years old and have had sporadic grey hairs since I was 14 makes me think I probably will someday.
12} Do you make your bed every morning?
Pffff!!! (no.)
13} Picasso or Norman Rockwell?
Picasso. Norman Rockwells paintings are eerily perfect. Also, I find it strange that every time I try to type "Norman Rockwell", my fingers automatically type "Normal" instead. It's suspicious.



See what I mean?

14} Do you like carpet, tile, or hardwood floors?
Hardwood in every room, except for the bathroom. The bathroom gets tile. Carpet is blah.
15} If you could put one thing in a safe under your bed, what would it be?
Multiple digital backups of old family videos. I hate the thought of losing those!
16} What's your favorite condiment?
Horseradish mustard, all the way, baby!
17} Have you ever thrown up on someone (excluding when you were a child)?
... I don't think so. Leastwise, I don't remember if I did. I did vomit all over the place one time though, and my mom had to clean it up. My mom loves me a lot. Ha!
18} What was the last thing that made you laugh?
Ok, don't make fun of me. "Fred 2: Night of the Living Fred". Yes, it's true.
19} Think fast...what's the first song that pops into your head?
"I Have a Dream" by ABBA. I swear, that song never leaves my head!


Happy blogging, buddies! I'm looking forward to reading all about the "authentic you's" out there!



Click here to view full list of prizes!



Posted by Abigail Kraft at 12:00 AM Comments

11.10.2011

Authentic People Blog Party Giveaways!


To be entered to win any of these incredible prizes, just write a party post and add your link to my Authentic People Blog Party! Best of luck, friends!


...(1)...

Bag of your choice from Luckycann - Up to $55 value!



"My bags are stylish, elegant, durable, functional and washable. They are
also big enough to accommodate my “everyday mom essentials” including
books, iPhone, sunblock, swimming goggles, clothes, food, toys, daipers,
shoes and more.

"Whether you are a busy mom, an executive or a college student, I have a
suitable bag (offered in a range of bright and funky colours) to meet your
work and lifestyle demands."


source (left)
source (right)

...(2)...

Handmade Oil & Vinegar Bottle from Creative With Clay - $48 value!



"Here you will find unique one of a kind handmade colorful pottery inspired by Indian designs, fabrics, embroidery, colors and Bollywood handcrafted by yours truly, Charan Sachar."


source

...(3)...

Gift Certificate for Elegant Rose Boutique - $30 value!



"Enjoy natural beauty products including handmade soap, moisturizing body butter, lip balm, bath bombs, lotion, natural deodorant and so much more, you can find all of your pampering needs in one place!"


source (left)
source (right)

...(4)...

Plug-In Warmer & Scent Bar from Scentsy - $25 value!
+
Bonus Prizes!

3 readers will receive a scent circle of their choice (for the car)!



NOTE: Additional entry options apply. Check back soon for details!

"Scentsy Wickless Candles are ceramic warmers that are a safe, decorative alternative to a candle. There's no flame, no smoke and no lead – so that means no worries for you! They are safe around kids and pets, and are safe to use in your home, classroom, office, or anywhere! How are they so safe? The ceramic warmers use a low watt light bulb that melts specially formulated Scentsy wax, creating a long lasting aroma that fills any room. There are so many beautiful warmers to choose from and they come in a variety of sizes ranging from plug-ins, which are perfect for bathrooms and laundry rooms all the way to full-size warmers, which are perfect for any size room. And with over 80 scents, you are sure to fall in love with several scents."


source

...(5)...

11"x17" "The Beauty We Love" Letterpress Print from Happy Deliveries - $20 value!



"This print was created using antique wood type from the early 1900s and grey ink. The type (wood and metal letters) is hand-set in my mid 20th century press and inked with a brayer. Then the paper is pulled throught the press, one sheet at a time, to create a perfectly imperfect print."


source
...(6)...

Set of 5 Square Doily Coasters from Uncommon Handmade - $20 value!



"Your source for colorful, cleverly designed decor in the style of anthropologie and urban outfitters. Our inspiration is danish and midcentury modern with some eclectic vintage in there, too."


source

Posted by Abigail Kraft at 11:59 PM Comments

I'm a Candle Junkie...

Yes, it's true. I'm a candle junkie ... How 'bout you?

Cheesy. I know. Sorry.

More often than not, I have a candle burning in my room. Something about walking into a room and being greeted with a comforting and homey scent just makes me feel fantastic. However, I simply can't get myself to leave a lit candle unwatched. You never know when that right air gust is going to come from a vent, sending a highly flammable object flying towards the open flame...Eh. Can't risk it.

For this reason, the concept of Scentsy Wickless Candles makes me a very happy girl!


In the words of Scentsy consultant, Rachel Antone...
"Scentsy Wickless Candles are ceramic warmers that are a safe, decorative alternative to a candle. There's no flame, no smoke and no lead – so that means no worries for you! They are safe around kids and pets, and are safe to use in your home, classroom, office, or anywhere! How are they so safe? The ceramic warmers use a low watt light bulb that melts specially formulated Scentsy wax, creating a long lasting aroma that fills any room. There are so many beautiful warmers to choose from and they come in a variety of sizes ranging from plug-ins, which are perfect for bathrooms and laundry rooms all the way to full-size warmers, which are perfect for any size room. And with over 80 scents, you are sure to fall in love with several scents."



I'm excited to say that Rachel is not only offering a Plug-In Warmer and Scentsy Bar of your choice to a lucky one of you, but she is also offering a Scent Circle to three more readers!

Along with the mandatory giveaway entry of participating in my Authentic People Blog Party, Rachel has requested a couple of additional entry options - so your chances of winning this great gift from Scentsy are even better!

Additional Entry Options...
1
Go to Rachel's website, come back to this post, and leave a comment about which warmer and scent you would like most.

2
Visit Rachel on Facebook (Rachel Antone - Scentsy Consultant), and LIKE her page, then come back to this post and leave a comment saying you did so.

By "liking" Rachel's Facebook page, you will automatically be entered in future giveaways that are done on a regular basis, only on that page. Orders can be placed from her website, and will ship directly to your home within 7-10 days.

Deadline for entries is 11:59pm CST on November 24 - Winners to be announced on November 25.

Good luck!
Posted by Abigail Kraft at 11:58 PM Comments

11.09.2011

Natural Feels Better, Right?

For a long time, I've had skin issues. Not so much acne and such (although, I have struggled a little with unwanted pimples, zits, etc. in recent years), but dry hands, random rashes, temperamental oils in my face (sometimes my skin is dry, sometimes it's oily), and other such annoyances always seem to affect me. As such, I find myself needing to be careful what kind of soaps, lotions, and other skin care items I use. Have you looked at the labels of some of the commonly used products? Many of them even boast their natural ingredients, however there are so many chemicals and additives it doesn't really mean anything.

So, needless to say, I like to buy natural.


Let me introduce you to Elegant Rose Boutique. A truly natural way to care for your skin and make you feel naturally rejuvenated.


My experience with these products so far has been exquisite. There aren't many things that feel quite as fantastic as hopping out of a warm shower, the scent of coconut oil and shea butter following you, and enlivening your skin with all natural whipped body butter. It's a new kind of clean. Not stripping down all of the natural oils in your skin, but reviving them.

Have you ever tried using natural deodorant? It's no secret that it seems to lack a certain protective quality that the popular store-bought varieties possess. Elegant Rose Boutique's deodorant, from my experience so far, has not failed me. That's a big "yay!" from me!


Melissa, the owner of Elegant Rose Boutique has offered an amazing prize for me to give to one of you, if you participate in my Authentic People Blog Party! Be sure to check back between November 11 & 24 to find out how you can be entered to receive some of her quality products!

UPDATE: Click here to find how how you can win a $30 gift certificate for Elegant Rose Boutique!
Posted by Abigail Kraft at 3:23 PM Comments

11.08.2011

More Handmade Lovelies - Who Likes Clay? *raises hand*

Remember what I said in yesterday's post about handmade things? I LOVE THEM.

So, it's no surprise that I adore this Etsy shop, full of unique, handcrafted pottery items.


These creations are handmade by Charan, who lived in India for a significant part of his life. You can see so much of India's influence in his beautiful, ornate, and unique work. I'm in love with each and every piece in his shop!


It took me a little while to actually use my square dish, because all I really wanted to do with it after receiving it in the mail was...look at it. Ha! It's absolutely stunning.


I'm happy to say that I will be giving away one of Charan's products during my Authentic People Blog Party! So, make sure to stop by my blog between November 11 & 24, to enter for a chance to win! I'm sure you're all excited to know what exactly it is that he will be giving to a very lucky one of YOU, but until the big reveal, go and gawk at all of the work in his shop, Creative With Clay.

Who's excited!?

UPDATE: Click here to find how how you can win a Handmade Oil & Vinegar Bottle from Creative With Clay!
Posted by Abigail Kraft at 4:28 PM Comments

11.07.2011

My New Favorite Bag

They say you can tell a lot about a person by their purse.

Ok, so I don't really know if "they" say that, but I certainly believe it to be true. From the inside out, a purse definitely seems to hold many glimpses into the personality of the owner. I don't prefer to call my purse a "purse"...I like to be able to call it a bag. For some reason, the aesthetic qualities of the word bag just seem to fit my personality a bit better. Along with that, I like to wear bags that are casual and stylish simultaneously - think canvas. Yes, I adore canvas. Don't you just love the texture of canvas? It's smooth and consistent, but always maintains that appealing, natural feel.

Friends, I'm here to tell you that I've found a bag that fits all of my desires.



It's got tons of pockets, it's roomy, and mine is a gorgeous brick orange color - perfect for autumn.


I love the long strap, and (my goodness) it's so comfortable!


Last, but certainly not least, it's 100% handmade. That fact, I admit, completely sells me on my gorgeous Aster bag. I'm a sucker for handmade things. Who doesn't love knowing that they're using something that's been specially crafted by one set of hands?

Love it, don't you?

Come back on November 11 and join my Authentic People Blog Party for a chance to win a gorgeous bag from Luckycann!

In the meantime, make sure to go to her store and check out all of her bags. I guarantee you'll be in love by the time you leave.


(More details on this giveaway coming soon!)


UPDATE: Click here to find how how you can win a bag of your choice from Luckycann!

Posted by Abigail Kraft at 3:13 PM Comments

11.03.2011

Amazazing Giveaways + New Friends = Authentic People Blog Party!

I've been thinking ...

... and after hearing all of your opinions on what makes a blog special - worth reading - I've decided that I need to do something to help promote real blogging.

People who are willing to bare their souls to one another, speak frankly and honestly, and sing their own song - whether it is one of pleasant routine, victory over adversity, struggle and sorrow, or any unique melody - those are the people that I'm proud to know. Those are the voices of hope through every melancholy, tragic, humorous, and wonderful moment in life.

I want to praise my Lord and Savior for a world full of souls worth truly knowing.

The Authentic People Blog Party has begun! Click here to join in!





The Authentic People Blog Party has begun! Click here to join in!


Starting on November 11 (12:00 AM CST), I will be hosting a two week long blog party (ending on November 24 at 11:59 PM CST) that is all about the authenticity of living souls. Yours & mine ... collectively, the divinity and nature of Christ, displayed in His cherished creation.

Each moment is a new opportunity to bring glory to God. The smiles that flash across our faces defy the fallen state of humanity. The hope that emanates from our hearts when we're moved by a special melody, statement, or written line, exposes a Creator that dwells in the soaring moments of epiphany. Those special moments of looking into the wide eyes of a loved one that whisper a requite, or letting the wind blow your hair where it may, rather than fighting against it ... in those moments, our spirits are revealed to us.

I feel like my purpose in blogging is and always has been to encourage people to be honest with themselves and with others. In honesty, friendships are formed that may have never bonded otherwise. I want the opportunity to get to know YOU in this way.

There will be

giveaways,
a fun questionnaire,
photo prompts,

...and most importantly, the opportunity to find and bond with people like you ... and unlike you. The only catch is that you must be completely and unapologetically yourself! :)


I'm extremely excited about this! If you're not already a follower here at Rear Window, make sure to subscribe, so you can stay updated on developments! Check back soon for fun questions to answer in your party post, and giveaway announcements!

The Authentic People Blog Party has begun! Click here to join in!


Want to win a surprise gift?

{To enter...}
Spread the news about the upcoming Authentic People Blog Party via your blog, Twitter, or Facebook, and let me know you did in a comment on this post.




See you there!


The Authentic People Blog Party has begun! Click here to join in!


{Party Questions}

1} What's the nerdiest/geekiest/weirdest thing about you?
2} If you could live in a fictional universe from any book, movie, or television show, what would it be?
3} Little or big, practical or frivolous, what is one of your favorite items in your house?
4} Do you like animated movies? If so, what is your favorite?
5} What is your favorite household chore?
6} What's your favorite thing to get at Starbucks (or your favorite coffee shop)?
7} What is your favorite pizza topping?
8} Waffles or pancakes?
9} Do you like to play games? If so, what is your favorite?
10} Have you ever let anyone win a game?
11} Have you ever dyed your hair?
12} Do you make your bed every morning?
13} Picasso or Norman Rockwell?
14} Do you like carpet, tile, or hardwood floors?
15} If you could put one thing in a safe under your bed, what would it be?
16} What's your favorite condiment?
17} Have you ever thrown up on someone (excluding when you were a child)?
18} What was the last thing that made you laugh?
19} Think fast...what's the first song that pops into your head?
Posted by Abigail Kraft at 8:26 AM Comments
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