Earlier this month, I had the opportunity to attend the Wilton Mom ReTreat held at the Wilton Headquarters in Bolingbrook, IL. We stayed at the Aloft, a fabulous, upbeat hotel. Here are some photos of my cute, loft inspired room.

Who can resist the hotel bathroom photos?

During the ReTreat, we enjoyed complimentary breakfast at the hotel, lunches catered by Panera and Potbelly Sandwich Shop, and dinners at Francesca’s at The Promenade and Rosebud where tired me accidentally ordered a whole chicken. Luckily, this was a local event, so I saved the leftovers for Greg! I hate wasting food!

At the Wilton Headquarters, I was able to get my hands on new Wilton products as well as products I haven’t worked with before. Our first day at the Wilton offices, we were able to work with the decorators and product managers who developed Punch. Cut. Decorate!, a new Wilton product line that went public April 15th.

Punch. Cut. Decorate! features Sugar Sheets Edible Decorating Paper, punches and cutting tools that make it easy to create cake decorations much like scrapbooking! This new line of decorating tools are suitable for extry level or professional cake decorators. The Sugar Sheets are flexible enough to modify in shapes, but you must keep them covered and work with them fast, as they start to dry out. My cake is an example of the elegance that can be achieve using the Sugar Sheets and cutting tools. It’s a little messy, since it was my first try.

In May, Wilton’s new Sugar Sheets and Punch. Cut. Decorate! product line will be available for purchase. Wilton will sell single sheets for $4 in 21 different styles, patterns, colors, fonts, and numbers along with 25 cutting and punching tools.

On our second day at the Wilton offices, I participated in a tiered cake decorating activity. Using fondant and cutting tools and punches, we were able to rock this cake! It actually came out better than I expected *giggle*.

I made the little flowers on the 3rd tier :).

We also had a chance to decorate cookies using the Color Flow technique.

My Color Flow attempt. I don’t outline very well, do I?

Had I not had these one-on-one workshops, I’d be totally afraid to even attempt using Color Flow, fondant, and the Punch. Cut. Decorate! line! I now realize how easy it is for an ordinary mom like me to decorate better than some bakeries. As a mom with the deep desire to be remembered by the memories I create in the kitchen, I am excited more than words can express to have had the opportunity to work closely with with Wilton during this ReTreat!

Jenn of MommaDandDaBoyz, Caryn of Rockin’ Mama, Me,
Jennifer of MomSpotted, Emilie of Baby Loving Mama, Tanya of Mommy Goggles

I’m inspired and even so courageous as to attempt this insanely cute Dinosaur Cake for Jayden’s 3rd birthday!

Are you an avid baker? What are some of your favorites things to bake? What baking/decorating techniques are you dying to learn?

© Sophistishe 2011 | Permalink | 20 comments - Let's chat!

Hello and welcome to my Ultimate Blog Party! If you have no idea what’s going on, check in here. I’m Sheena, owner of this here blog. Not much has changed since the last Ultimate Blog Party, so I won’t restate what’s still current. You all have other blogs to explore!

Jayden will be turning 3 (someone hold me) on April 26th and that Junior High Sweetheart of mine, Greg? We finally got married :). I’m an introvert with a side of shy. I love being around people, but doing so wears me out! I’ve taken up painting as a new hobby and I’m lovin’ it. I wear my hair in dreadlocks (it’s a personal journey) and I love, love, love nail polish. This is a hop, so I’ll keep it short. Feel free to read more about me here and here.

Feel free to introduce yourself in the comments below and link up your UBP posts in the linky! I’m giving away some bareMinerals Pure Transformation Night Treatment below and if you go here, you can enter to win loads of fabulous prizes, including a Fellowes DS-1200Cs Paper Shredder that I donated to the UBP prize pool!

Oh, if you want a chance to win $1,000 cash via Paypal, enter the Boost Your Buzz Giveaway over at SimplyStacie.net!

© Sophistishe 2011 | Permalink | 22 comments - Let's chat!

I started the day heading to the Walmart Sustainability booth for a tour. Breakfast was sporadic; had to grab random pieces of rolls/fruit and then head out to the Getting Gorgeous Skechers Shape-ups walk which made the Wall Street Journal (ignore the bits about species, tight t-shirts, mommy swag, etc). I was among the first 25 people to RSVP, so I received a free pair of Shape-Ups – love ‘em. I was surprised to see that they come in different styles; even sandals. If you are not fond of the thick “Skechers-ish” look, there are some styles that look a little more “normal” for ya.

After the walk, I showered and changed and headed to the Getting Gorgeous event where I ran into Renee. I finally got to meet Jane and Sharon of Mom Generations, who got an amazing deal on her dress. I’ve known all of the Mom Generations ladies since the Pinks & Blues days before becoming a mommy. How time flies. Audrey and Vera outdid themselves with the Getting Gorgeous event for sure. I took back some great items for myself and to share with my friends. I sure wish I was 10lbs heavier so I could fit into the Miracle Body jeans. Dang it. My Lia Sophia pearls made up for that.

Next door was the BSM Media swag suite where I bumped into Onica, checked out some of the sponsors tables, entered some giveaways, and picked up a battling Zhu Zhu Pet that Jayden loves chasing around the house.

Lynnae and made our way to the My Blog Spark suite where we had some yummy Pregresso soups and other treats. The chicken tortilla certainly does not taste straight from a can. Next, we headed to the Hershey’s S’more suite where we…how did you guess? Made S’mores. We hadn’t had lunch, so visiting these two suites hit the spot. We somehow wandered to the Metamucil suite where we learned about their new shakes that provide normal amounts of fiber. It was kind of awkward being asked to sample a Metamucil shake, lol. It was good though and no it didn’t leave my tummy rumbling later on. After chatting with Stuart A. Seale, M.D, we headed to part two of the suite where we got reflexology foot massages. Best massage ever. Thank you, Catherine Stapleton. She was so sweet, I had to get her a hug.

Lynnae and I then did some work at the Walmart booth, Jolawn stopped by to say hello. After our shift, Lynnae and I browsed the expo, and a very fulfilling dinner and desert (NOM) at Etrusca with Monica – Melissa and George/Alana had to run.

After dinner, Lynnae, Monica, and I headed to the Robeez party, also put together by Audrey and Vera. I got a way cute diaper bag and goodies for the next baby (to be in the making by spring – I suppose).

Next, I headed to the Hallmark Christmas in August party with Stephanie. I ran into Jennifer, Naomi, and Kat. By then, many of us were exhausted. Lori brought up feeling like a scrooge which fit the scene perfectly. I didn’t wear my purple santa hat, I didn’t decorate cookies, or pose with the guy dressed in the Santa suit. Bahumbug. Elizabeth lifted my spirits when she sweetly gave me a friendship stone. Awww.

Stephanie and I headed to meet up for the NYC Night Tour. I think a number of us were expecting the red topless buses. We did stop and get out at a few locations, so it wasn’t so bad. Jen and I went on a mission to buy something random. She bought me a bracelet. We tried to get a picture of our bracelets together, but the picture blurred. Darn camera.

‘Twas the second day of BlogHer ’10. It was a looong day of fun and hugs. It’s days like these that make me look forward to next year’s conference. I’m excited and I already have plans of turning BlogHer ’11 into a family adventure.

Folks I’ve met (that I can remember): @themommyfactor @sharoncouto @janecouto @spelhouselove @eringifford @momrenewal @seeryusmama @organizersandy (well, we did the Skechers walk together, lol) @sarcasticmomlc (met her while I got lost on the elevator)

Folks I’ve seen again: @rockandrollmama, @classymommy @audreymcclellan @mommybrain @jennfowler @LucretiaPruitt @katydidandkid @babymakingmama @caseydeuce @youngmommy @acowboyswife @reneejross @savorthethyme @craftymama @nycmama @DuongSheahan @bethrosen @sugarjones @commnsensemoney

♥ Again, if I missed you, know that I love you. My brain is just in a fog.

More photos on Flickr…

© Sophistishe 2010 | Permalink | No comment - Oh, I see how it is...

Thought about Photoshoppin’ the Gentlemen’s Club out, but hey it’s NYC.

@itstoni, @mommyintincts and I headed to the airport bright and early in the morning. We grabbed McDonald’s breakfast and boarded our plane shortly after. In between, we met @princesshaley and @fairytalemom! Before landing in NYC, we did some wavy thing through the clouds that made me, who never gets motion sick, feel lightheaded. We touched land 30 minutes early. Thank you @southwestair :).

We grabbed our bags from baggage claim. Mine took a little bit longer to retrieve. @itstoni, @mommyintincts, @fairytalemomm and I headed to the hotel in a van.

There was a little dilemma with checking in. My name wasn’t in the system. Once that got sorted out, I got settled in my room where my roomie, @ErikaLehmann, popped in. Since I was running late, I decided not to go to the Hane’s party. Instead, I chilled out and headed to the BSM Media Swag Suite with @mommyinstincts where I met @mrscooper, @reallifesarah, and @maricrisg.

Then, there was the dilemma of incorrect charges and outrageous upfront incidental fees from the hotel. Long story, not gonna tell it.

Following, was the Ralph Lauren event where I had a chance to learn more about the brand and meet Ralph Lauren’s son, David Lauren! Did you know that Ralph Lauren is a rags to riches story? More details to come… I’m so excited to be an ambassador for the brand.

There was a point where my nerves convinced me that this would be my last BlogHer or big conference…for a while. This is my second year attending BlogHer. I love meeting new people and seeing familiar faces, but being among so many people at once is quite overwhelming. The more people you know, the smoother the sailing, right? I suppose. I really enjoy intimate settings… I ain’t complaining, just sayin’.

‘Tis all for now. I have to wake up bright and early in the morning. I have stayed up waaay too long.

Folks I’ve met (that I can remember): @davidlauren @momtrends @alexcaseybaby @JoLynneMusings @girlymamamel @selfishmom @dadarocks @mrscooper @maricrisg @momrenewal @fairytalemom @princesshaley @wistfulwrists

Folks I’ve seen again: @lynnae @consumerqueen @monicabrady @mariabailey @georgesmithjr @kylejudkins @mommygoggles @stacydebroff @thedirtyshirt @table4five @stylemom @bizziemommy @JusticeJonesie @ErikaLehmann (my roomie)

The rest of the Twitter accounts will be linked some day. I ran out of energy. And yes I started the beginning of a sentence with the @ sign. Twice. I’ll have @gregtatum fix any errors. Ain’t no tellin’ what I just typed.

♥ If I missed you, I’m sorry. My brain is just in a fog.

It’s going down whether I’m ready or not.

© Sophistishe 2010 | Permalink | 8 comments - Let's chat!

BlogHer ’09

I’m not wearing a cute baby; maybe some cute shoes.
I may be tweeting if I so choose.
I probably won’t be live blogging.
If I see you sitting alone, to say hey, I’d like to.
Truth is, I may let you doodle on your phone because I’m just as shy as you.

I will be attending the conference with a new attitude on blogging.
I will be enjoying myself, hanging out, not worrying about making a good impression.
I will party hop and go on adventures all while being myself.
I will wear myself out – it’s quite easy for me to do.
I thought about posting my schedule; decided not to.
This year, I’m doing my own thing.

— — — — — —

And now for sponsors and all that jazz…

Fresh Breath and Whiter Teeth
EvoraPlus sent me a month’s supply of their probiotic mints. I’m about halfway through my box of mints and I have noticed that I have a brighter smile. It also feels good knowing that when I chew on one of these, the good bacteria in my mouth is being restored naturally. EvoraPlus also makes chewables for kids, perfect for my little guy who rarely cooperates during toothbrushing. I’m adding EvoraKids to my shopping list.

Attempting Smooth Skin
SkincareRX sent over a Personal Microderm System that I’ve been experimenting with. I used to think that Microdermabrasion treatments were for old ladies, but I discovered that the younger crowd can benefit from it too :). Expect my review and a chance to win a Personal Microderm System of your own soon.

A Cute Casual Dress
Bluegala sent me a very cute, casual dress. I will pair it up with a black cardigan, leggings, and low heels. Bluegala offers quite a selection of very cute party dresses. Be on the lookout for chance to win a gift certificate to Bluegala when I return.

Snacks
Sahale Snacks has supplied me with glazed and seasoned nuts (What’s another word for nuts?) to snack on between traveling and during the conference. Things will be hectic and I will need something to munch on between meals. I love cashews!

Business Cards
Tiny Prints sponsored my business cards this year. I wanted something fun and less on the business side. I wasn’t looking to match them with the look of my blog because I will be forever changing it around. I chose the Bold Bliss Deep Turquoise design. The design is photog specific with four sections to add your own photos. I chose to create some graphics that describe my position in this space to place in those squares. I also created a lil’ graphic for the back of the cards. I’m very pleased with how they turned out.

While shopping for business cards, I couldn’t help but sign up for their new greeting card service. I’m terrible at sending cards, so my Super Sender account will definitely help me score thoughtful friend/family member points.

A Geeky Necklace
I was given a discount on the purchase of a sterling silver @sheenatatum necklace from Survival of The Hippest. I can’t wait to meet the girls behind the biz when I go pick up my necklace while in NYC.

Conference Sponsorship
Walmart is sponsoring my BlogHer conference admission, travel, lodging, once again this year. If it weren’t for them, I wouldn’t be on my way to NYC to experience the great fun ahead!

I’m hoping that I’ll be able to battle through the post-BlogHer exhaustion long enough to have some stories to tell! If not, pictures will have to do and I always have those, right?

BlogHer ’09

Cheesy poem thingy above was originally random sentences and then things started rhyming, so I left it that way.

Yes, I am Mommy from Mommy Daddy Blog. This post and this post explains why I decided to switch gears. Happiness is such a great feeling.

© Sophistishe 2010 | Permalink | 5 comments - Let's chat!

March 19th, 2010 was the day that I attended the Dyson Domestic Engineers event held at the Dyson headquarters in Chicago. This was no ordinary event. It was very casual, like hanging out with the girls. We took a tour of the headquarters, had lunch, and talked about our current vacuums and what we’d like to see in future vacuum models. She has a Kirby. I didn’t know those were still on the market. She names every single one of her appliances. Can you believe she has a fridge named Franny?

After lunch, we broke off in to groups where we pretended to be Dyson engineers. Much like Dyson engineers, we started with a problem and worked towards a solution. We had to build a prototype device using cardboard that would serve as a spider catching device. The goal was to catch the spider without harming it. It was so much fun sharing our ideas, crafting, and getting a good laugh at the outcome.

I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work. – Thomas Edison

We also had a chance to test drive some vacuums; both Dyson and other brands. We even did an activity where we assembled both a Dyson and a Bissell. The goal was to see how easy it was to assemble a Dyson. Dyson won.

To conclude our day, we were told that we’d be sent some cool Dyson toys (like this) for both us and our kiddos. We then, hopped in cabs and headed over to The Drake where we were graced by a harpist, afternoon tea, and miniature sandwiches and sweet treats. She had a hilarious faux pas straining her tea. It was a pretty awesome day.

More photos on Flickr…

© Sophistishe 2010 | Permalink | 2 comments - Let's chat!

Weeks ago, I mentioned that Greg and I took a trip to Marshalls to do some Mother’s Day shopping for myself. With $50 to spend (courtesy of Marshalls), I chose…

a cutting board ($7.99), marble rolling pin ($9.99), salt and pepper shaker set ($5.99), and a fresh pod for onions ($2.99), all of which will come in handy in the new and improved kitchen I’m working on :).

Oh and Greg chose a little something for me, buuut I’m not gonna air that here. It’s by Jessica Simpson, it’s purple, and ruffly. That’s all I’m sayin’ *looks down*.

Moving on…

Two weeks ago, I attended the Behind the Seams Event for Marshalls and T.J.Maxx in Berwin, IL. We were given the skinny on Marshalls and T.J.Maxx by style expert and TV correspondent, Alison Deyette.

I learned that…

T.J.Maxx and Marshalls run the off price merchandising game. They have the highest buying power with over 1800 stores nationwide. Their buyers travel the world 40 weeks a year to meet with thousands of vendors and designers to buy inventory at 20-60% off retail.

Marshalls and T.J.Maxx do not buy factory second, although I would still shop there if they did. They do buy up what department stores don’t buy from the designers. They also buy what departments stores are unable to get sold. In some cases, a designer will design articles of clothing in a certain fabric and a department store will chose not to carry that specific fabric. This is where Marshalls and T.J.Maxx come in and purchase those unwanted fabrics. Since department stores have to sell unsold merchandise back to the designers, Marshalls and T.J.Maxx offer to intervene and purchase this merchandise as well. Marshalls and T.J.Maxx don’t sell their unsold merchandise back to designers. They continue carrying merchandise until they are completely cycled out of their stores.

By doing this, Marshalls and T.J.Maxx are able to supply 10,000 pieces of in season merchandise every week. So whenever you visit a Marshalls or T.J.Maxx, you are sure to find something probably completely random, yet fabulous, at a fraction of its retail price.

After Alison’s lesson, she took us on a tour of the store. She then, gifted us with a gift bag with a super cute makeup bag set and lipstick. In the bottom of the bag was a $100 Marshalls/T.J. Maxx gift card! We were then set free to shop. We had the whole Marshalls store to ourselves!

I swore that I would only buy for myself, but the first thing I grabbed? A Rocawear polo onesie for Jayden. We are past onesies, but this one was too cute to keep on the rack.

Retail: $15 Paid: $3.99

I then hit the juniors section and found these three tops. I’m currently adding ruffles to my wardrobe because they are very feminine and compliment my slim figure. I’m also digging the layered look, so shrugs are making their way into my closet as well.

Retail: $12.00 Paid: $7.99

Retail: $26.00 Paid: $12.99

Retail: $24.00 Paid: $14.99

I also grabbed this very mature, but age appropriate Liz Clairborne Axcess handbag from a random display. I’m in limbo between grown and sexy and teen. I have alot of canvas and corduroy bags. It’s time I got a big girl bag.

Retail: $48.00 Paid: $16.99

I really enjoyed myself at the event, although I was still in a sleepy fog. In order to arrive on time, I had to wake up at 4 a.m. I think I should get brand loyalty points ;). Thank you Marshalls and T.J.Maxx for a wonderful learning and shopping experience.

Don’t judge me for this tardy post. Things around here are getting rough. We need a vacay!

Attendee list.

© Sophistishe 2010 | Permalink | 11 comments - Let's chat!