Museum Love: A First Ladies Debut at the NMAH

If your lucky enough to live or be in Washington DC in the next couple of months be sure to check out the recently re-opened First Ladies Gallery at the National Museum of American History. The new exhibit features the dresses of fourteen first ladies, such as Lady Bird Johnson (above). There are other objects such as dishes, portraits and accessories that they have donated to the Smithsonian during their husband's time in office.

The collection goes back to a gown worn by Martha Washington in 1780 and yesterday the NMAH added Michelle Obama's gown to the exhibit. The dresses are only out for a limited time due to conservation issues so go and see them while you can.

If you can't get to DC check out this video about the preparation for this exhibit.



Image and video courtesy of NMAH

I Like Ike!

I don't talk politics on my blog but you have to see the "I like Ike" party that Suann had for her 3 year old son! Adorable! Let's take a vote - does this make me want to A) Change my name to Ike? B) Have a son and name him Ike? or C) All of the above.

Yeah - I figured that would be your answer! There are some more great images of Ike's bday party here.

Images courtesy of SimpleSong

Signs of Spring!

Is this it? Is this a sign that spring will soon be here! I was ecstatic to see daffodils poking up through the cold ground as I wandered through my yard the other day. Yes there is snow on the ground, but for some reason when I see those little stems popping up I know there is more to come. YAY SPRING! We are ready!

PS – I just about jumped up and down when I turned the corner and saw the day lilies sprouting!
PPS - Please excuse the poor quality of this photo - I took it with my phone.

MaxxSilly Loves: Just Something I Made

It’s been awhile since I featured some serious blog love here at MaxxSilly. Well, meet Cathe Holden of Just Something I Made.

I have been reading her blog for quite awhile and just realized that I have never shared it with you guys. She is a graphic designer, mother of three and seriously creative lady. Her projects have been featured all over the web. She has some great ideas for invitations, graphics, home décor – everything we love here at MaxxSilly. Not only does she share her ideas but she makes some great vintage clip art available to her readers for them to use in their own projects. Generous and creative….I love!

Thanks for sharing your great projects with everyone Cathe! Keep up the great work.

Image courtesy of Just Something I Made

Getting ready for Oscar!

Are you ready? The Oscars are just 4 days away! Do you have your dress picked out? I think I am going with flannel since it is still pretty cold up here in New England.

Well, even if you are not attending the big ceremony there is plenty to keep you entertained while you wait for someone to trip and fall on their way to the podium.

There is, of course, the official Oscar game put together by the academy. The top ten worst Oscar dresses can be seen here. (FYI: if you don't like seeing swans tortured I wouldn't click.)

Oscar bingo can be found at Jess's site How About Orange. Of course, nothing says Oscars like a crossword puzzle. And to really spice up your night, check out these recipes for drinks and food for the big night.

Olympic Mascot Cuteness

I was reading one of my favorite blogs, How About Orange, where Jessica was talking about the uber cuteness of the mascots for the 2010 Vancouver Olympics. I must admit I have been slacking on my Olympic viewing this year. I am usually really into it but this year I just can't get hooked. Maybe I feel like a slacker because all of these athletes are in top physical shape or maybe I am just jealous of Shaun White's beautiful, shiny locks.

I do agree that these mascots are adorable! Their names are Sumi, Quatchi and Miga. You can learn more about them here. The Vancouver Olympic committee has given these guys their own site complete with activities and coloring pages for your little ones....or for yourself...we won't tell.

Now if I could only find a Bob Costas coloring page.....

Image courtesy of Vancouver 2010

Searching for My Lost Shaker of Salt

Happy National Margarita Day! Yeah, I'm already drunk but it is a holiday so there is an excuse. I kid.

Now I did some research on the subject and no one seems to know why February 22 is National Margarita Day. Who cares why? Let's bust out the tequila! I did learn that the margarita is the official drink of Mexico. Here are some great margarita recipes for you try and you celebrate this treasured holiday.

Pomegranate Margarita
Chocolate Margarita
Margarita Pie (Yes. An actual pie.)
Margarita Cheesecake

You could also celebrate the day by just watching the video below, you know, since you probably have to go back to work tomorrow.