Monday, August 2, 2010

Jersey Girl Welcomes SITS!!!!

WooHoo!! Today is my SITS Day, as in The Secret Is In The Sauce, as in the greatest group of bloggers and bloggerettes in cyber-space!  I'm ridiculously excited and celebrating in typical Jersey fashion with a Jersey Girl fist-pump.  The SITStahood is a group of more than 6,000 women bloggers dedicated to supporting one another by leaving comments.  Lots and lots of comments.  And The SITS Girls have chosen me as the featured blogger today.  

So since it's my day in the sun, my day to shine, I have a special little request.  For today forget what you think you know about Jersey Girls - the low-class, high-drama housewives, the big-haired big-mouthed Gatsby girls, the Situation and Snooki - cause I'm here to set the record straight on what it's really like to be a lady from New Jersey.  That's right, I said "lady" because believe it or not, there are ladies in New Jersey, and we know how to act, dress and carry ourselves in public.

Geographically speaking, living in South Jersey is about as good as it gets.  If you make a left turn out of my neighborhood you have the choice of going west bound on the Atlantic City Expressway, which will lead you to the great City of Brotherly Love, Philadelphia, in all of 20 minutes.  Take the Expressway east bound and you're "On the way to Cape May"..... or you can be in Atlantic City in 40.   Go North on the Parkway and you're in New York City in a mere 2 hours.  Head South and you can pass Baltimore and be in our nation's capitol in 3 hours.  In addition, we are 20 minutes away from the Pine Barrens, which contains 1.1 million acres of state forest and is home to the Jersey Devil.  It is also home to the Kirkwood-Cohansey aquifer, which holds 17 trillion gallons of the freshest water in the entire country.  Not a bad place to live if you ask me.

Do we love our diners?  You betcha.  Soft pretzels and cheesesteaks?  Fuhgettaboutit! But did you know that we also have some of the most beautiful farms with acres and acres of the most delicious fruits and vegetables, hence our name, the Garden State.  If you had the pleasure of tasting sweet corn or yummy tomatoes this summer, chances are they came from New Jersey.  We are also the blueberry capitol of the world!

We don't have hurricanes or earthquakes, rarely have tornadoes or wildfires, but we do enjoy four beautiful seasons with gorgeous foliage in the Fall, beautiful snow in the Winter and amazing beaches to enjoy in the Summer.  And just to be clear, Jersey Girls don't head to the beach.  We go "Down the Shore".  Always have, always will.

I hadn't planned to use my SITS day to grandstand.  I actually had a completely different post planned about my not-so-exciting life as a 40-something mom to two girls and wife to my college sweetheart who just found out that the symptoms of menopause and pregnancy are very similar (go here to read about that interesting conversation with my man).   My blog is about decorating and thrifting and extolling the virtues of Craig's List - all topics for a great post.  But I just couldn't do it.  I sat up all night trying to think of an idea for a special SITS post, and it occurred to me that this would be a great opportunity to establish New Jersey in a new light.   For today, I did my small part to rid the notion of Jersey Girls as being uneducated, small-minded, wildly confrontational drama starved women.

I leave you with a list of highly intelligent, very successful and classy "ladies" who hailed from the great state of New Jersey:

Clara Barton - Founder of the American Red Cross
Dorothy Parker - Famous American Poet
Betsy Ross - Creator of our Nation's flag
Molly Pitcher - Revolutionary War Hero
Harriet Tubman - African-American abolitionist, humanitarian and Union spy during the Civil War
Christine Todd Whitman - first female governor of New Jersey
Judy Blume - Famous children's author
Donna Weinbrecht - 1st gold medal winner in the 1st Olympic mogul competition in freestyle skiing
Sandra Dee
Bette Midler
Susan Sarandon
Meryl Streep
Kelly Ripa
Queen Latifah

190 comments:

Anita @ GoingALittleCoastal said...

South Jersey really is a pretty place. We lived there for just a year but it was so different then northern jersey. I loved the fresh corn and tomatoes. And I remember the fun corn mazes they had in the Fall. You sound like you are around the same area. We were in the Mt Holly area, Lumberton was where we rented for the short time we were there.

Melissa Miller said...

Congrats Kim! I'm so excited for you! You are without a doubt the sweetest Jersey girl I know. *Smiles* What neat facts too!

All That Glitters said...

fist pumpin here!!! you go sista!

Love Of Quilts said...

Honey if you don't have to worry about hurricanes, earthquakes, tornadoes or wildfires then you really are blessed....we have tornadoes in TN. Trish

Robin said...

I guess I haven't been paying attention, because I don't have any preconceived notions about women from New Jersey. Sorry if you get a lot of that.

You have a beautiful blog. I am very excited to check it out and see what you have to offer.

Enjoy your special day.

Leslie Harris said...

Congratulations on your SITS day! I love how you've decorated your home. Can I go shopping in your house? :)

Greetings from Mexico. :)

Anonymous said...

Congrats on your SITS day! I'm excited to read some decorating tips... my new house is naked right now haha

Anonymous said...

Your blog is so homey! I am a follower now for sure! Come visit when you can...
http://bernicewood.wordpress.com

Leiah said...

Happy SITS day to you. Now I'm off to get some great decorating on a budget tips from you. Enjoy your day!

the Tsaritsa said...

Congrats on your blog being featured! Stopping by from SITS just to show some love.

As a Philly native I love me some soft pretzels and cheesesteaks! I can't stand the Jersey Shore idiots, but I love the Gatsby crew! I'm also a sucker for RHONJ.

Katie said...

Happy SITS day!! I love being thrifty, Ross and Marshall's are two must-go places whenever I'm looking for stuff for the home. :) I've recently discovered that there's a surprising amount of things from the dollar store, too! I've been incorperating them into my decorations - for example, this picture frame border.

It doesn't take a whole lot of money to make a fabulous visual impact!

Happy to follow your blog! :D

Jemsmom said...

You rock, girl! I want to come to New Jersey and hang with you!!!

Unknown said...

Love your post! Way to set the record straight! Hope you have a wonderful SITS day, from one SITSta to another!

Anonymous said...

Congratulations on being featured at SITS. Great list of influential women.

Stop by Tell Me Something Good blog to join in the conversation.

Anonymous said...

thank you for that! now I know several classy ladies from and living in NJ right now so I never equated it to the housewives or jesery shore. at all. In fact, I always jsut think of NJ as a cool place in the middle of other cool places like philly and nyc.

congrats on the baby!! wow, I just turned 40 and would think menopause first too. But so exciting!

new follower because you have some awesome ideas and thrifty! fun!

oh and congrats on your day!

Ms. Understood said...

Congrats on being featured at SITS!!!

My husband and I plan to head to the South NJ/Philly area in October. Can't wait to check it out. Oh yeah, and we're heading out to King of Prussia Mall, of course.

GINNA said...

Happy SITS day! Love your blog and your decorating!

Unknown said...

Ha ha! Oh, too funny. I know next to nothing about Jersey (well, I don NOW, after reading your post) except that there's that little goblin looking lady called Snookie who lives there and there's a reality show about its housewives. So it's a good thing you cleared all that up!! ;) Honestly, though, you've extolled its virtues so much I'm starting to wonder what I ever saw in my home-state. Maybe a move is in order?

Happy SITS day - love your thrifty, take on decor!

Cyndy Bush said...

Happy SITS Day! I'm in Florida but I would love to visit Jersey, if nothing else to go thrifting with you! You have some awesome finds.

Cheryl D. said...

Happy SITS Day! Enjoy! You have a beautiful blog. Who knew all those famous folks came from New Jersey? Wow!

Erin said...

Happy SITS Day!
You know, I have only ever been to Cape May, and any show about Jersey makes me NOT want to go...but you definitely changed my mind about it! Sounds like a great place to live and be from!

Aimee | Irresistible Icing said...

Congrats on your SITS Day!

Julie@My5monkeys said...

congrats on your sits day.

Kimberly said...

Great post Kim! Thanks for setting the record straight! I don't know anyone like those people on the Jersey Shows. Well honestly 1/2 of them aren't even from N.J.!!! good job!!

Mesina said...

Can I move in with you?
New Jersey sounds wonderful! At least where you are...you described it perfectly.
Congrats on your SITS day, I think I'll hang around - I could use a few ideas for decorating!!

Simoney said...

I'm from NZ (New Zealand) and we get mistaken for Australians ALL the time (have you seen Flight of the Conchords? that's us)... I I totally hear where you are coming from; not wanting to get mistaken for... a stereotype! Nice post. i didn't know all that about NJ; sounds like a GREAT place to live - so handy! Happy SITS day to you... luv from Simone DownUnder

Paula@SweetPea said...

South Jersey sounds like a great place to live. I've only driven through NJ so I really don't know a thing about it. I really think I'd like your area.

I don't know a thing about SITS, so I'll have to check it out.

Karen and Gerard said...

Congrats on your SITS day. Do you take a book along when you go "down to the shore"? New Jersey sounds like a pretty nice place.

Anonymous said...

Congrats on your SITS day. I remember reading Judy Blume books when I was younger :) and Queen Latifah! What a beautiful lady.

Anonymous said...

You've made me want to move here! I would love to try out living in the USA for a while. Done the UK, SA, Australia, Wales, and Israel so it would be lovely to say "corn" and to go "down the beach". Honey, you sound sassy and cultured, and anyone who judges a person because of where they live isn't worth paying attention to.

Grace Adams said...

Happy SITS day, and I'm already impressed with New Jersey because it produced Jon Bon Jovi.

cheekymama said...

'Wildly confrontational drama starved women' LOL Well at least they don't sound boring! I used to live in North Jersey, fun hearing more about the south side ;-) Congrats on your SITS day, what a way to represent the Garden State. Looking forward to reading some decorating tips.

from Babes about Town
http://babesabouttown.com

FranticMommy said...

Love your blog! I need to REALLY read this more. My home is decorated in "Early Garage Sale". I think it's time for an "upgrade". I've been told that hanging wedgewood-blue-country-geese-themed potholders on the wall is no longer in style. My bad.
Happy SITS day!

Anonymous said...

Hey Neighbor,
Can I get on that list of women too? I'm an NJ resident too and have done TWO posts that I call PSA's On Behalf of the State of NJ to combat the crap about our state on cable TV.
You did a lovely job of highlighting all of the wonderful things to do in the garden state.
I have a page on my site where I feature other NJ bloggers called, "The Neighbors". I'll be adding you!
So nice to 'meet' you like this.
Happy SITS day!
SaucyB

♥ Brittany Ciara ♥ said...

A huge congrats on your SITS day! Gotta love craigslist, right?! You can find the craziest stuff there! Kinda like on SITS where you find the most amazing bloggers?! Well I guess it works like that lol.

Hope you have a great day! :)

xoxo

The Whimsy Cottage said...

Some of my favorite people live in New Jersey and they are class acts!
I love Craigslist, too! I'll be sure to bookmark you.

Stopping by from SITS!

Judy@grammyreads.com said...

Have fun on your big day! If you haven't already, check for estate sales companies. We have some great ones in SC and you can preview the sales beforehand online.

citymouse said...

Stopping by from SITS. I love your blog... it's right up my alley. I'm following you now.

Happy SITS Day!

stephanie said...

Girl, you are a shining example of a beautiful Jersey Lady!!!!! Lovely post, have a wonderful day!

John Deere Mom said...

Congrats on your SITS day. Thanks for showing the world there's more to New Jersey than Snooki! ;) Have a wonderful day of comment love!

Angie said...

Happy SITS Day. I have truly enjoyed exploring your blog. I have always wanted to get into the thrifty garage sale-ing, antiquing, junk jaunting life, but I never have the patience. Now, I can just live vicariously through you. :)

Holyoke Home said...

Massachusetts girl fist bump RIGHT BACK AT 'CHA!

Congratulations on your FB SITS day!!

Anonymous said...

My cousins live in a very beautiful part of Jersey, so I know it isn't all what they say. :)

I can't wait to get some decorating tips from your blog. Happy SITS Day!

alison said...

i love that you "set the record straight" in your post. my neck of the woods also carries with it a bad perception thanks to shows like "trick my trailer" and "my big fat redneck wedding". we southern gals can be just as refined and clean as anyone else in the country....AND most of us have all of our teeth!! ;) hope you enjoy your SITS day....you officially have a new follower....PLEASE teach me to decorate!!! i need some serious help!

Unknown said...

New Jersey is beautiful! Congrats on your day!
I'm heading over to check our your Craig's list post because Craig's list is the only way to go!

The Dutch Girl said...

Happy SITS Day, Kim! I am very happy to have found your blog because I love home decor on a budget more than anything. Always on the lookout for a new source. I am going to thoroughly check out your blog now. Enjoy the comment love today.

Margaret Almon said...

Happy SITS Day! Your house is lovely! And I appreciate your impassioned defense of Jersey. I live in the Philly area, and have enjoyed my visits to NJ.

Amanda @ Serenity Now said...

Hi there! I really enjoyed reading about New Jersey. Had no idea your state is the blueberry capitol of the world--and I like blueberries. All I knew about New Jersey is what I've seen on drive from Virginia to NYC...so not much. Thanks for sharing, and Happy SITS Day! :)

amycornwell said...

Thanks for sharing your life with us and the decorating ideas!!

Retrodiva said...

Any state that can produce Dorothy Parker is a-ok in my book! There are jerks everywhere, I doubt Jersey is any different. Enjoy your SITS day!

Elizabeth @ My Life, Such as it is... said...

Happy SITS Day! I love reading decorating blogs as I'm hopelessly challenged in that area. Off to do some reading....

Shayna said...

So great to see another Jersey girl featured :-) Yes, we are a breed of our own... and a fabulous one at that!

Elizabeth {sunny bug} said...

Hi Kim. Happy SITS day...thanks so much for sharing. You didn't have to defend Jersey to me...I live about 45 minutes north of Detroit. Can't escape craziness...it's around no matter where we live :)

I've just recently discovered the wonderfulness of Home Goods. Love it! AND I love your new apron!! I will be following now because I seriously need some decorating inspiration.

Unknown said...

Congrats on your very own SITS Day!

I loved looking through the photos of your beautiful home. I especially enjoyed the lovely way you decorated the top of your refrigerator.
However, not to be outdone by a painting the sonogram pictures of your sweet surprise baby were my most favorite of all!
God truly is good. All the time.

Heidi of Operation Organization said...

Happy SITS day to you!
I love a good thrifty find and I'm so happy to have found ya so I can browse around for some inspiration as we set up house in our newest nest!

HB, The Impulsive Minimalist said...

I love it. I personally have never watched either of those shows and only know 1 person from Jersey. She's a bit quirky, but we love her ;) Anyway, hope you have a great day...I'm going to go poke around a bit!

Happy SITS day!

Karen said...

I'm always excited to find others who are also blogging about designing a home on a budget-my favorite obsession!

Congrats on your SITS day, enjoy the Queen-for-a-day status!

Bekah said...

Congrats on your SITS day! I can't wait to browse around and get some ideas.

Darlene said...

Congratulations on YOUR day. Love your blog. I enjoyed learning about New Jersey. New follower.

The Mommy Mambo said...

I've never been anywhere near New Jersey, but I did not have any of the preconceived notions you feared your readers might have! I swear!
I really had no thought about it really until now! But it sounds like a beautifully fun place to visit!
Love you beautiful antique finds and ideas!

Jamie said...

You mean you're not Stephanie Plum? I can see how you might be getting a little bit annoyed at the kind of shady press NJ has been getting. I'm from near Detroit and the Detroit slams get a little old over a while. I know Detroit sucks, but give it a break, you know?

Anyhow, I'm so looking forward to checking your blog out in detail. We just moved into a new house and my husband is FINALLY on board with the redoing/decorating so I'm striking while the iron is hot and hoping to find some good ideas here.

Annie @ astonesthrowfrominsanity said...

Wow Kim! I think I love you!! I am a girl that was born in South Jersey and still return each year to go "down shore" to Ocean City with my family. I love it . . . (and the tomatoes???? OH MY GOODNESS!! There aren't any better anywhere!) I, too, love, love, love my Craigslist, so I am looking forward to reading your posts. SO good to meet you!

bj said...

WOO HOONESS....YOUR DAY!! Enjoy all the bloggy love.

Loved your cute post and anywhere MERYL STREEP hails from is good with me !!

hugs, bj

http://www.rockonmommies.com/rachael said...

I love the 'jersey girl' post...glad you did it!!! Happy SITS day!

Unknown said...

Happy SITS day! I love your blog. It looks like Jersey is a nice place to live, but for me, I love the Midwest! Its close to my family and everyone here is so friendly.

Anonymous said...

Congratulations on your SITS day and on your wonderful surprise (conversation with fate). You've sold me on the awesomeness of South Jersey, I'm planning my trip!

Anonymous said...

Congratulations on your SITS day and on your wonderful surprise (conversation with fate). You've sold me on the awesomeness of South Jersey, I'm planning my trip!

Missy@Wonder, Friend said...

Happy SITS Day! And congratulations on the new baby - I saw that ultrasound picture and thought, "I hope she tells us more about that!"

I'm already hooked on your site. I love to decorate and I'm on a tight budget these days since I now stay at home with the kids. Can't wait to read more!

Enjoy your day. :)

Unknown said...

I have never been to Jersey but my husband has and he said it was very pretty and not at all what he expected. Your post really does bring a whole new perspective to why one should come visit Jersey. I love the beach and that is one I have not seen so I think I should plan a trip. Thanks for sharing.

Emma said...

Wow! South Jersey sounds pretty awesome and so close to some great Cities! Happy SITS day...I hope you have a good one :-)

Nicole Marie said...

happy SITS day Jersey girl! :) Mind if I snoop around and steal some tips...no...THANKS! :)

The Pressley Family said...

Congrats on your big day and your new baby on the way! I've been on your site for a while but I'm just now commenting because I got caught up in reading your older posts!!:)

Tina L. Hook said...

Happy SITS Day.

I have visited South Jersey and I was impressed with how scenic it was.

Anonymous said...

Happy SITS day and thanks for the lesson on what NJ is really like!

Sandy said...

Congrats on your special day! Your blog is great! I'm off to follow and read some more!

Set In My Ways said...

Happy SITS Day Jersey Girl! I think they should give the REAL Jersey Ladies their own show, and can the drama!

Alissa said...

Loved hearing all about New Jersey....congrats on being the featured blogger! :)

Lori@Two Daughters, A Husband, and A Minivan! said...

Cute post. Congrats on your SITs day!

A Real Housewife said...

Happy SITS Day and congrats on Baby #3!!!

nono said...

From 1 Jersey girl to another....you go Girl!!

Unknown said...

I have always wanted to visit New Jersey. I have heard it is absolutely Beautiful there.

Congrats on today being your day!

Anonymous said...

I had no idea that Judy Blume and Meryl Streep were from Jersey... stopping by from SITS--- congrats on your day!

Katie P said...

Happy SITS Day to you!!!

So glad they picked you, I'm thrilled to look around your site, as I'm just about to move and will need some new thrifty ideas for decorating!

Kate Pantier @ Mommy Monologues said...

HAPPY SITS DAY! Now that you've described where you live I want to move there! Sounds pretty awesome!

Unknown said...

Happy SITS Day and CONGRATS on the baby!

Your house look beautiful. I will be back for more!

KC said...

Happy SITS day to you!

jenn said...

happy sitsday!

Alana, Author of Domestically Challenged said...

Happy SITS Day! Beautiful blog! Off to poke around a bit now... :)

Debby@Just Breathe said...

Congratulations on your day to shine with SITS!

Morgan Hagey said...

Happy SITS day! I actually learned about Jersey from your post. :)

Jolynna said...

What a great post! I live in Tennessee and have a guy friend of mine from Jersey. He loves telling everyone, in is unmistakable Jersey accent, that he is from the South too - South Jersey. :) You should hear him say "Yall".

Alison Agnew said...

I've visited here before and love your blog. Happy SITS Day! If you get a chance, come visit me at Stuff and Nonsense...alisonagnew.blogspot.com

Blessings!

Krysten @ Why Girls Are Weird said...

Dropping by from SITS to wish you a happy SITS day!

Unknown said...

Well it all sounds just beautiful, and I don't think you should worry too much about stereotypes. I'm from Texas, what do you think I hear? LOL! Just 'sitting' in and wishing Congratulations on your SITS day!

Ronnica said...

Never been to Jersey. In fact, in my mind, it's one of those mythical places that doesn't exist as I don't know anyone who has been either. Maybe someday, I suppose.

Happy SITS day!

Kandice said...

Congrats on your SITS day! :) Great blog, I probably just spent about an hour looking around and reading through your posts! Congrats on baby #3

AiringMyLaundry said...

Happy SITS Day to you!!

I love diners too. Yum.

Jennifer said...

Congrats on your SITS day. I can't wait to dive in and get some tips. And I never knew all of that about NJ. Thanks for sharing.

Heather and Daniel said...

Can I say I bow to your awesomeness?
You have an eye for decor that I was born without. Happy SITS day!

Megan Roberts said...

You're proud to be a Jersey Girl- I love that! I'm also loving your blog, especially since my own blog is also about thrifty home decor. You've gotten some great deals recently! (P.S. Isn't it sad that some of the famous peeps from you're state like Betsy Ross and Judy Blume need an explanation so everyone knows who they are?)

Evelyn said...

I'm popping in to wish you a Happy SITS DAY!!! Your blog is just delightful, but it serves to remind me that my apartment is not going to be winning any home decor awards. ;-)

You have a good eye. Thanks for sharing so many tips and photos.

Melanie said...

Congrats on being today's featured Blogger! Love your piece on what NJ ladies are really like, I love it!! Makes me want to visit :).

Vicki @ Grams Made It said...

Congrats on your SITS day! I love your post about New Jersey. Now I want to visit. I can't wait to look around your blog a little more. I love to decorate and I a bargain, so I'm looking forward to finding some great ideas.

Unknown said...

Congratulations on your SITS day! I completely understand fighting state stereotypes. I'm from Ohio, and everyone thinks we live football, go cow tipping, and all wear John Deere overalls. So not true.

Teix said...

Thanks for the post! I appreciate the different view of New Jersey. It is such a great deal to love where you live. When I was younger, I lived in a super small town with few parks, lots of mosquitoes and hardly any single men. Now I am grateful every day to live in Austin. (Not that I'm still looking for single men, though.)

Anonymous said...

Happy SITS Day! I love your state pride! I am impressed with all of the knowledge you have about who is from there! I live in CA and LOVE it but def. know that much trivia. I have some work to do! Enjoy your day!

Sarah said...

Happy Day to you! Your blog is really great. I love home decorating on a budget.

Unknown said...

My father hails from Jersey. Many fond memories visiting family. Loving shots of your personal touches at home.. Happy SITS day!

SimplySandi said...

Stopping by from SITS. Thank you for providing a different view of NJ - seems like Snooki has become an role model. I'm from Texas, so we get the stereotypical comments too - we don't all live on ranches and ride horses, but we do say 'y'all". Can't wait to read more of your blog!

Kristy @Loveandblasphemy said...

Wow! I think I should pay attention to you because I looked around on your site, and you even decorate the top of your fridge?? Wow. You are some kind of amazing, girl! CONGRATS to you on your SITS day!

Seizing My Day said...

You've sold me!! I think Jersey sounds like a wonderful place to live... It is a blessing to have four seasons and to live so close to so many amazing places! Can't wait to see the decorating tips unfold as I follow along ~ no pressure!! =) Happy Sits day!

Unknown said...

Congrats on your SITS Day! I remember many of Judy Blume's books took place in New Jersey. Can't wait to check out all your thrifty and pretty finds!

The Insatiable Host said...

Congratulations on your SITS day!!

Jersey is the place to be!! What a great site you have! I really love the lay out also. All the best on your special day.

Danon

www.insatiablehost.blogspot.com
www.pantypyramid.blogspot.com

April said...

Congrats on SITS day!! I love decorating,s o I am going to follow you.

Confessions of a Paper-Crafts Chick said...

Congratulations on you SITS day! I love your blog your home decor.

Kelly@MentalGarbage said...

Happy SITS Day!!! I love your blog... I always adore decorating ideas - especially at a bargain!

Mandi Miller said...

I gotta say... I honestly didn't know those things about New Jersey! But I also didn't think all women were "typical Jersey girls" either! It sounds beautiful and a wonderful place to live! I can't wait to explore your sight more! Happy SITS Day to you!

NovemberSunflower AND StaciandherScorpios said...

You're a girl after my own heart. Marshalls, Craigs List, yard sales.............I LOVE IT!!!! We get lots of our stuff for our home and kids at all of these places, plus Kmart and a few other places. They have estate sales here, or tag sales, too. We've gotten so much great stuff for our home since we moved in almost one year ago.
I love the blog, I'll be back to check it out again, I'm sure!
Happy SITS day.

Jenn said...

Happy SITS Day! I loved your picture post about Jersey. I think it does sometimes get a bad wrap. Your decorating ideas are really neat, I always admire people who can look at an ugly, old table and turn it into something really pretty and unique.

Cheryl said...

Wait! You forgot me on the list! Born at Rancocas (know idea how to spell it, it's been a LONG time) Valley Hospital and lived in Willingboro. Moved when I was 4, but hey, I still count as a Jersey Girl!

Looking forward to checking out your site!

Kristin said...

Oh my gosh 121 comments! You go girl! LOVED this post - being a Jersey girl myself that is now transplanted to the south. Way to represent (and set the record straight)! I could absolutely relate - oh, and that was so funny about "heading to the shore" b/c to this day, I can't say "going to the beach" nosiree...it's the shore or the sea for me (and always will be) - now I know WHY I have that "thing" about it. B/c I'm from South Jersey! Hope you have a wonderful day friend!

Lucy said...

I didn't know that much about Jersey until this post. Great lesson and great blog!

Christina said...

Happy SITS! I am very interested in decorating on a budget. Glad to have found your blog!

rjs mama said...

Happy SITSday to you! Ive been to New Jersey once and would love to visit my relatives there again, thanks to your post :)

Jenn Erickson said...

Congratulations on your SITS day. I love your intelligent and witty style, and definitely think New Jersey is very lucky to have you out there "representin'" to counteract the negative stereotypes perpetuated by those reality shows. What a wonderful list of inspiring NJ women! My brother and his wife and child are moving to NJ from NYC in just a few weeks. I'm going to have to share this post with her, to give her some comic relief and allay her fears about the upcoming move ;)

Jennifer Vanderbeek said...

Happy SITS Day! and a bit yay to all the wonderful ladies from New Jersey. I've visited the Mount Laurel area once before and have nothing but fond memories of The Garden State.

And the cocktail I created for it is actually one of my favorite non-alcoholic drinks I've created this year:

http://www.sipsandshots.com/50-shots-of-america-new-jersey/

Unknown said...

I love your list of Jersey ladies, some of them are 'sassy,' but still manage to have class. Any state that could have produced such a great group of women has something very special going for it!

Happy SITS Feature Day!

Teresa @ ♥ Too Many Heartbeats ♥ said...

HAPPY SITS DAY!

I am really excited about reading your blog. I have a huge passion for interior design, especially when it is done on a limited budget. I can't wait to see what all you have done.

In the meantime, I hope you get lots and lots of great comment love on your special day!

Teresa <><

♥ Too Many Heartbeats ♥

Shelley said...

Happy SITS day!! I love your blog! I'm your newest follower!

chele said...

Congrats on your SITS Day and I really enjoyed your tribute to your state. Be proud!

AngiDe said...

I didn't know that Meryl Streep is from NJ.... I LOVE her! And one of my best friends is a Jersey Native... LOVE her too!

Happy SITS day to ya, Jersey girls are the best!

xo

Michelle said...

Congrats on your SITS day! I love your blog title - who wouldn't want a little domestic bliss in their life?

I can't wait to look around a bit, and I really liked that you included some info. on some other women who come fro your neck of the woods - very creative!

Peace. ;)

Michelle @ greenearthbazaar.com

Anonymous said...

Congrats on your SITS day!

mypixieblog said...

Congrats on your SITS day! And from one Jersey girl to another, thanks for putting us in a great light. I'm so sick and tired of shows like Real Housewives and Jersey Shore for the negative stereotypes they portray.

Beautiful blog, don't mind if I look around :) Also, I am your newest follower!

Rheanna Bristol said...

Congrats on your Sits day!

I think that its awesome the style's and bargains you collect! Great taste!

I loved reading about 'Jersey Girls'. I think we'd get along great!

Anyway, I'm a new follower, I be back for sure!

Anonymous said...

Congrats on your special day. Love your idea to use the chance to espouse the true personality of South Jersey. I'm a California girl but used to be an east coaster with relatives in jersey and new york and florida. Enjoy your summer while it lasts :-).

Anonymous said...

I'm glad to see there are ladies in Jersey. Jersey Shore sure hasn't helped New Jersey's reputation.

I can't wait to look through more of your blog! My home is so boring and I really need to decorate, but I'm super broke and don't know what I'm doing. I'm sure I'll find some sweet tips around here!

Unknown said...

Happy SITS day from your "neighbor" in PA :) lol Oh ... and I hate the Atlantic City Expressway! Crazy drivers! ;)

Anonymous said...

Congrats on your SITS day - love hearing a "real" first-person account of Jersey. So many things I didn't know, and it seems like a wonderful place to visit.. :-)

Jacksmom said...

Super information! It's nice to know all of that about New Jersey! And it's nice to know you go thrifting and do it so successfully! Keep it up!

Jesslyn said...

Happy SITSday! I've never seen Jersey Shore but you still definitely put Jersey in a positive light today. :) Lovely blog!

Therese said...

Congrats on your day!! I officially have a new place to visit on my list :) Sounds lovely. I've never seen Jersey Shore, but it is impossible to escape the hype. Thanks for another point of reference, nicely done!

Joan said...

Kim, you are a great ambassador for the state of New Jersey! I'll add your name to the list of great women citizens!

Anonymous said...

I really hope to make it to the "Jersey shore" one day! You make it sound wonderful! I can't wait to read about your finds on Craig's List.

Congrats on being a featured blog on SITS!

Saretta said...

I'm convinced, no more Guido stereotypes for me! ;-) Happy SITS day!

Unknown said...

Originally from parsippany, NJ, I got nothing but love for a Jersey girl. :) Hope you are enjoying your special day.

Unknown said...

Sound Beautiful!! I just made a friend from the Jersey Shore about 3 weeks ago - she is amazing and I hope to visit her someday. Now, you've made that area seem even more enticing. Love your blog!! Happy SITS day!!

Jennifer said...

Happy SITS day! I am one woman who is so glad that the Jersey farms are there, I get to cook such wonderful local dishes because of them!

Anonymous said...

Congrats!! Thanks for informing me about Jersey. Great to know of those great ladies you listed and that they are from Jersey.

the wild raspberry said...

your blog is very lovely and your state sounds wonderful too!
happy sits day to you~
chasity

Angelia Sims said...

Reading the way you talk about Jersey reminds me of the Stephanie Plum novels written by Janet Evanovich. I can see you in The Burg. :-)

Great list of wonderful ladies!

Happy SITS day!

Green Cleaning Coach said...

Happy SITS day! I love your blog! Could you come to New England and help me!?

InMyOwnStyle said...

Happy Sits Day. I spent every August "Down the Shore" Ocean City while I was growing up. It is my favorite place in the world. I wrote a post about it back in June. My family always stayed at the south end of the island. During my college summers I worked at Simms Resturant(dating myself) that was up on the boardwalk. When I was in high school the drinking age in Jersey was 18, so all of us suburban Phila kids - LOVED NJ - the state holds most of my fondest memories.

I enjoyed your post.
My best - Diane

Duchess said...

Happy SITS day! I hail over in the City of Brotherly Love and I do like to visit South Jersey :0)

Enjoy your day to shine!

De Leon Signs said...

Congratulations on your SITS FB day! Your blog looks like fun I can't wait to check it out! Have a wonderful day!

Gloria said...

Hooray for Kim and Hooray for Jersey Girls!! (this, coming from a New York Girl!) One thing, Kim, you said: "the secret is in the sauce" so I was expecting a recipe! LOL!
Best,
Gloria

Veronica said...

Happy SITS day!!

My kids are right outside Philly now and we'll be heading to Jersey on Saturday. Monday we'll being "going down the shore!"

I'm looking forward to it!

Jersey ain't bad!

Elyse said...

Thanks for setting the record straight ... from one Jersey Girl to another (Elizabeth born and now a resident of Atlantic Highlands.)

Love your post about enjoying your porch ... all my plants are dead because watering just can't save them from this heat and even at 9PM there is barely a breeze to enjoy. I am in that boat with you!

Unknown said...

Congratulations on your SITS Day! I love a good bargain!

Patricia said...

well although I never had any preconceived notions about "Jersey girls" as I live on the West Coast of Canada, I still love your opening post. It truly made me want to visit New Jersey and I just love it when someone can convince me to visit. Maybe one day!

Congrats on your FB SITS today!

Amaprincess said...

Happy SITS Day! Fellow Jersey Girl here=) So glad I found your blog! I'm a new follower!

Laura @ The Things I Said I'd Never Do said...

Happy SITS Day! Great job braggin' on your state!!

Anonymous said...

Happy SITS day all the way from the Philippines! I have many friends staying in Jersey so I hope to visit it someday. I bet my first-time travel experience to your state will be a blast!

Elizabeth said...

Congratulations on your SITS day. I've been following you for a while now!

Wendy said...

WooHoo!! Happy SITS day! When I saw you pop up on the SITS site...I said (out loud to Tony) "Hey I know Kim...it's Kim's day on SITS!!!" I think I even gave a little clap out loud for you!! So happy for you!
Wendy

julie said...

Congratulations on your SITS days! I'm glad to hear that there's more to New Jersey than those crazy housewives! This was a great post and I loved learning about all the famous women from New Jersey. Enjoy your special day!

Liz said...

Your blog is fantastic! I am now a follower!

debi9kids said...

Happy SITSday from one Jersey native to another!

Eliz Frank said...

Happy SITS day! I love your fun finds girl... You've got the touch and your decor rocks. Have a great week!
Eliz

Anna said...

I would love to go to New Jersey. I have never been there before. I live in California and I definitely miss the seasons.

Happy SITS day!

Amanda said...

I drove through jersey does that count? haha i'm from long island i have to drive threw jersey to get almost anywhere

Anonymous said...

Congratulations! What a lovely blog!

Twincerely,Olga said...

congrats on your SITS Day!!!! great blog!!stop by :)

Jessica said...

Happy SITS day! Looking forward to checking out your blog.

I Wonder Wye said...

Ok Ok, I'll bite -- it's not all about the guidos and guidettes...thanks for the geography and history lesson, in particular the list of notable women. Cool...off to read...

Anonymous said...

Congrats on being Saucy today. I love decor blogs, so I can't wait to do some exploring! :)

BonBon Rose Girls Kristin said...

Happy happy SITS day! You had me at Judy Blume!

Missy said...

Congrats on your SITS day and your blessed surprise of baby #3!

KimMalk said...

Happy SITS day-a day late. I was traveling with my family so missed you yesterday. I've been to NJ before and agree it's a beautiful state and convenient.

Joy@TPMG said...

Congrats on your SITS Day and your surprise pregnancy!

Nicole said...

South Jersey is the best place to live! I grew up there actually and now live in NYC and I always love going back and visiting my folks there and all other family that live there! There is nothing like a Jersey tomato I agree. And just the drive down to the Jersey shore with my wawa cup, to lbi, makes me smile and opens my heart in an instand. You are one lucky lady!! Stopping by from SITS and happily following you now! ps i love decorating on a budget and I can't wait to read your stuff!

Anonymous said...

Happy Belated SITS Day! I hope you enjoyed all of your comment love. You're a brave lady. Craigslist scares me.

Luciana Silva said...

Hello!!! A little late, but Congrats your SITS Day!!! Lovely blog and pictures :)

Anonymous said...

I am sorry to be late too....but I know that ladies come from New Jersey, my mother is from northern NJ, and she truly reminds me of Julie Andrews.....what a lady.
smiles.

Diana said...

Congratulations on being the SITS featured blog! *woot*

Your state sounds like such a wonderful place to visit... I would totally enjoy the nature part of it with all the seasonal beauties!

Blessings to you on this day! =)

Anonymous said...

Hi Kim! Wow! 187 comments! Congratulations on being featured!! I would love to come to your state - it sounds just wonderful.
Now I've been traveling and then had our daughter and grand daughter visiting and I'm trying to catch up in Blogland.
I scrolled down and saw a sonogram picture! You're going to have a baby!! Oh, congratulations. This is so wonderful and we'll all be your mother and guide you through your pregnancy!! :) Take care of yourself, Kim.
Be a sweetie,
Shelia ;)

aimee said...

sounds like a great place to live. great post. i enjoyed reading it :) congrats on being featured.
blessings,
aimee

North of 25A said...

Congratulations on your SITS day (a little late, but no less sincere). I understand how you feel about NJ, I have the same feeling about Long Island & Queens too, where I am originally from. All the best, I look forward to reading your blog as a regular.
Best,
Colleen

Happy Fun Pants said...

Woo hoo! Happy SITS day!

I can't wait to check out all of your undoubtedly great ideas! :)

Adriel Booker said...

Hi and a big congratulations on your SITS day - woohoo!!! You are a woman after my own heart... my hubs says I can smell a sale from a mile away. He's constantly amazed when I come home with my latest $6 shirt or $12 wall hanging... calls it my "gift". I also have patience... like your Marshalls painting, I will find something I love... then wait for it to go on sale... then pounce. ;) Oh, the satisfaction!