My New Oldie but Goodie...and Butter

Like I'd imagine most women with blood in their veins, a pair of fallopian tubes, and atleast a moderate interest in food, I've always wanted a pretty new stand up mixer. Which part of this desire is practicality and which part pure girly consumerism, I can't be entirely sure. Whatever the case is, I have not yet been able to justify being able to bake enough from scratch to want to shell out $300 for one these housewive's wet dreams. However, wanting to get more creative in the kitchen, I recently picked up this girl from Ebay. She is a $20 and change (including shipping!) vintage 1940's Sunbeam mixer, complete with a few attachments and two very lovely original milk glass bowls (my favorite part). I'll admit, she isn't the most polished thing, but like me running late to work on a Monday morning, she sure gets the job done. I think I'll keep her.

Cheap Thrills: Graphic Artist

Spring is just around the corner, so for this week's edition of Cheap Thrills let's look ahead at some spring trends. We're going to do things a little differently this time, we'll look at some high end options and their more budget friendly counterparts.

Bright colors are an obvious spring trend, the weather starts to warm up and suddenly we're drawn to bold colors and big pops of color. But this spring we'll also see lots of graphic prints, in the form of abstract florals, modern geometric designs, and bold prints and patterns. These pattens don't have to be limited to your clothes, you can jump into the trend by looking for accessories with these fun patterns. It's an easy way to incorporate seasonal trends into your regular wardrobe. No need to spend big bucks to rock the latest style.

Steal vs. Splurge: Beauty Basics Edition

Here are a few of my must have beauty products, and their equally fabulous and cheaper alternatives.

I do not wear make-up as often as I used to or would like to, but when I do, I look dang good gurl. Some people (Heather) may argue that I have no business putting up a post about make-up and beauty as usually I am a plain faced hobo a la Lindsay Lohan status.

Moisturizer:

Steal: This one is hard as everyone's skin is so different. I typically use anything that is on sale, something I win, or one that is recommended to me. Vanessa swears by Philosophy's Hope In a Jar 2 oz. ($40), and Heather is a repeat buyer of Garnier Skin Renew ($12) 2.5 oz.

Splurge: StriVectin Instant Moisture Repair 2oz. ($59) is a little pricey, but totally worth it. You can see and feel the difference after the first time, seriously. I won this in a blog contest and used it until the bottlemade that little fart noise when it's beyond empty.