Furniture Update

I'm super happy with how my hutch turned out! I  am so bummed that I forgot to take a before picture. :( You'll have to use your imagination.  Take out the beautiful green background  and replace it with a plain old boring  wood back.
 I found this awesome site here.  It tells you everything you need to know to do this project.
I bought green fabric from Wal-Mart and used a cornstarch paste to apply it to the back of the hutch.  I was afraid that it would ruin the wood, so I did a test piece on the inside of the lower cabinet.   It worked perfectly.  I would recommend that you test in an inconspicuous place to make sure, but I love the pop of color in the back!
I hope it inspires you to tackle your own little furniture update.
Happy crafting! :)

Reflections on Turning 40

     

"JUST WAIT! Everything begins falling apart at 40!"

     "Over the hill!"

      "You are officially middle-aged!"

     These are a few of the comments I heard as I approached my 40th birthday. 
     The day arrived, a mix of clouds and sun.  Sunny one minute, cloudy the next; as if the day itself was in turmoil over what it would become.
     I heard many good wishes for the day.  My parents even sent me a paper tiara with a cheerful cheeky bird on it who wore a dainty crown and the words, "Queen of This Day!"
     Honestly, I was enjoying myself.  Back in February I awoke one morning and realized, "I will get old!"  The crisis had already past, yet there was a small amount of dread due to the constant predictions of impending woe at the number.
     One friend sent me a text. "Do you feel any different?"  I laughed and replied, "Nope! Funny you should ask...  My dad has been asking me that every birthday for as long as I can remember... and I've always said, 'No!'"
     Later, I went for a walk while my children went out birthday shopping.  The clouds had won the day and there had been bouts and fits of snow flurries.  At the moment the wind was gentle and I felt as though I had stepped into a wintery fairy snow globe.  Snowflakes gently flitted and drifted about before softly landing on the earth where they melted instantly. 
     In that moment, I prayed, "Lord, let me be like these beautiful snowflakes.  Gracefuly filling the earth with their intricate beauty in the short time they have."
     Our lives are but a vapor and will soon pass away.  The old saying is true...

Only one life, 'twill soon be past, 

Only what's done for Christ will last.

     I praise the Lord for the 40 years He has given me and thank Him for each day He gifts to me in the future.  May each day be full of honor and praise for my Savior!

Chair Cushions

     Wow! I'm not so good at this blogging thing! :-/ It's been far too long!  I've been super busy with life... my family♡ , cleaning, and of course, crafting!
       I spent 2 and 1/2 hours at Joanne's last Saturday!  I knew exactly what I was looking for,  but there's so many fun fabrics to look at.... :-)  (And yes, my husband did know I was going there.... he was probably nervous)  But, I managed to leave the store, (a small wonder in itself....so hard to leave), AND stay on budget!
    The foam pads for the cushions were 50% off, and home decorating fabrics were on sale at 40% off! I also had a coupon for 15% off my total purchase.  I should add that the gal who rang up my items went way out of her way to find me even more savings! I ended up with an additional 5% off! ♡♡♡
     My latest project... chair cushions for my dining room chairs!
     Above is a picture of one that I sewed for one of the bedrooms. I'm working on the dining room set next. I do a lot of work at the kitchen table and I am looking forward to comfy seating!  :)
                    What will you make today?

Merry Christmas!

     Think of the worst thing you've heard on the news lately.  How do you feel about those people who committed the atrocity you heard?  Now think of the worst place you know of...the most ugly, murderous, crime ridden place. Got that picture in your mind?
     Good.  Now how do you feel about that place?  I'm sure it's not on your list as your next vacation spot.  You probably are repulsed by the thought of visiting there, much less making that place your home.
     But that is just what God did.  He chose to send His only perfect, holy Son to come to this sin ridden earth full of sinful people to live among us and to be murdered brutally by wicked people.
     Why?  Because of His great love for us and ultimately for His glory!  I cannot begin to imagine that kind of love!  Love that would choose to die for wicked murderous people.  
     This Christmas, bask in the beauty of the Christ Child, reflect on the glorious love of the sinless God-man Jesus who died in your place and took the punishment you deserved,  and rejoice in the salvation offered by the Wonderful Counselor, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace, our Immanuel!

Merry Christmas! 

The Art of Giving Thanks

http://www.ellaclaireinspired.com/autumn-tablescape-free-printable-placemat/

     I saw an advertisement recently for a company that sells a lot of home decorations.  In it they called Thanksgiving "Friendgiving and Family Day".  Seriously?  Friendgiving? I think celebrating with friends and family is great. But is it really that difficult to admit to having a grateful attitude? 

     I know that for a number of years now "Thanksgiving" has been replaced by "Turkey Day" and football parties.   However, I encourage you to know the history of Thanksgiving and to develop gratitude in yourself and your family and friends.  

     One of my favorite, easy ways to do this is to go to the library and check out a couple of books about the first Thanksgiving from the children's section. They're short reads so they keep everyone's attention!
      This year I'm going to do something similar to the place mats shown above at our Thanksgiving table. After everyone has had a chance to jot down their thoughts,  we will go around and share what we are thankful for.  

     Our culture is increasingly becoming centered around our individual wants and getting instant gratification.  I think we would do well to stop for a moment and reflect on the blessings that have been given to us.              
   So what's on my list?   First, I am SO very thankful for the salvation granted to me by God the Father through His Son, Jesus Christ! :) Next of course, I'm so thankful for my family and friends! :) And then all of the other blessings I enjoy: health,  home, clothes, and my appliances!   (Just imagine life as the Pilgrims knew it... without washers and driers, dishwashers, refrigerators, electricity, and running water.... we are truly blessed!)

     So, while we will have turkey and most likely football (there are certain people in my family who might have a withdrawal without a regular dose of football :))  we're also going to take a few minutes just to be thankful! :)
      If you have a tradition that helps keep the gratitude going, I'd love to hear! Just leave me a comment below. :)
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!! 

Thanksgiving Decorating Ideas

Thanksgiving is only 17 days away!  I know lots of families get together to share a special meal and think about the many blessings God has so graciously given us.  Mine is no different!  This year I am so privileged to host Thanksgiving. However,  I also have many other things that are vying for my time.  So...17 days?? What to do?  So much decorating, so little time!  Answer: Pinterest.  What a great source for ideas!  Here are a few of my favorite SIMPLE ideas:  (Remember KISS...Keep It Simple Sweetie!) 
#1  - See picture above  - -  Popcorn, candle, raffia - done!
#2 -

How cute is this! 
These little guys are still
 available at your grocery store
if you don't already have some!
Shopping list:
gourds, mini pumpkins, tea lights
Done! :)




#3 -

This might have to be my favorite.
  Love, love, loving the white mini pumpkins
with the pine cones and twigs....
 I'll have to see if I can find a cool hurricane vase!

 Trip to Goodwill anyone? :)





#4 -

Apples smell yummy 
and are a good alternative to pumpkins. 
I think it would be fun with red apples too!






#5 -

White pumpkins again!  So gorgeous!
  I have a friend who has a wooden box....
Maybe I can sweet talk her into letting me borrow it? ;-)








Uh oh!  Now so many choices!!!! So little time!  :)
Hope your creative juices are flowing!  I'd love to hear your plans for decorating your table!

Cinnamon Salt Dough Leaf Prints

What is your favorite fragrance? I love anything that has a woodsy, spicy smell! This time of year pumpkin spice is a popular fragrance!  The main ingredient in pumpkin spice is cinnamon.   A very pleasant autumnal scent.
     I have discovered a salt dough recipe with that beautiful cinnamon aroma! I love salt dough and so do my kids!  It's moldable, and versatile. I love it for making ornaments, my kids love it as a clay substitute!
    We're planning on making some pressed leaf ornaments for fall.  These would be great hanging on the Christmas tree as well.  (I'm thinking nice handmade gift for grandparents, teachers, etc!)
     Here's the recipe:
1 Cup of flour
1/2 Cup of salt
1/2 Cup if cinnamon
3/4 Cup very warm water
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well.  Wash hands and then finish kneading with clean, dry hands.  If the dough is a little sticky dust your hands with a bit of flour and knead.   Amazingly cinnamon scented salt dough!
       For a good tutorial on making leaf print ornaments click here.
For other scent ideas click here.
I'd love to hear from you!  Please leave a comment and tell me what you made!

Mug Cakes

  

  Hi! No, I haven't disappeared into the frozen tundra of the North, but it has been a while!  I got kinda busy with the rest of summer, and then school started, and .....  well I could continue, but I won't bore you with the details.  I have come to a decision though.  Originally I thought I would try to post three times a week.  But the business of my life has caused me to reevaluate that.  So I will try to post once a week.  I think that will be a little more manageable for now.


     Today's post is a recipe I found today.  It is so delicious, but a little dangerous because it's so easy.  You'll see what I mean in a minute,  but first...
      I have to justify my reason for posting recipes on a blog supposedly dedicated to crafting.  Cooking and baking are ART forms.  Ask any chef (professional or otherwise), I'm sure they'll agree!  So when I find a good one, I love to pass it on.  Food is just something that brings people together.  I bet if I asked you what your favorite childhood memory was, it would include food in some form or another.  Many families (including mine) eat certain foods on certain occasions.  I mean what's Thanksgiving without Pumpkin Pie?

Chocolate Mug Cake (Image from Table for Two)

     Have you every heard of a Mug Cake?  I hadn't until today.  But what a fabulous (and dangerous) :-) idea!This recipe is from "Table for Two".  I tried it today.  My kids saw it and I made each of them one.  Still faster than baking a regular cake.  It was taste tested and approved by all.  Here's the link to the recipe. The Moistest Chocolate Mug Cake Since it's apple season,  I'm also going to try her Salted Caramel Apple Spice Mug Cake!

Salted Caramel Apple Spice Mug Cake (Image from Table for Two)

I hope you enjoy these recipes!  I'd love to hear from you!  If you have a favorite mug cake please share!!

4th of July Craft

Picture from www.happyhooligans

 The fourth of July weekend is quickly approaching!  I thought this was a great craft idea! I spotted it on Pinterest.  It would be a great project for the whole family! The complete directions are found here. This could be easily adapted to Christmas decorations.  (Christmas in July, anyone?) 

Go on a hike, find some sticks, break out the paint and have fun! :)

Happy crafting!

Mmm....Monday - Granola

Pictured granola is made with Grape Nuts, Corn Chex, and dried apples.

Happy Monday and last day of June! :)
Today I'm going to share with you my recipe for granola!  I usually put off making it,  and I don't know why, because it's easy to make and really yummy.  The best part is you can get really creative and make the recipe to your own taste! It's super adaptable!  So here goes!

HEATHER'S GRANOLA

6 cups Old Fashioned oats

1 cup cracked wheat (or your choice of substitute)

1 cup nuts (whatever is preferred)

2/3 cup honey (may substitute with karo syrup, or maple syrup)

1/3 cup brown sugar (may be omitted,  we like ours a little sweeter)

3/4 cup orange juice

1 1/2 tsp. cinnamon

2 cups coconut

Mix oats, cracked wheat, nuts, and coconut in large bowl. Mix honey, brown sugar, and orange juice in pan.  Heat until just boiling,stirring occasionally.  Add cinnamon to pan and stir.  Pour over dry ingredients and mix well until evenly coated.  Spread on cookie sheets and bake in 325° oven for 20 minutes,  stirring every 5 minutes. Granola should be a nice golden brown.  Let cool and store in airtight container.   Serving size is a 1/2 cup.  Makes lots! May be frozen.
Good on yogurt!
Some other ideas on things to add...sunflower seeds,  grape nuts, rice crispies, dried fruits...
Leave me a comment on how you got creative with your granola! 

Mmm.......Monday - Crock Pot Goulash

Summer is officially here! I am enjoying the warmer weather after freezing all winter, but sometimes it gets a little too warm in the house, especially as we do not have our central air installed.  So I'm trying to find ways to make meals without turning on the oven. Normally I would cook on the grill, but it is currently in need of repair.
Enter the crock pot! I put it outside on our front patio, and it cooks all day without heating up the house!
    Today I made Goulash.  Here's the recipe:
1 lb ground beef, cooked
2 - 24 oz cans of pasta sauce
Parsley, dried onion, garlic, salt, and pepper
(Add to taste - I never measure) :)
2 1/2 cups farfalle, uncooked (bow tie noodles)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
Combine all ingredients in crock pot.  Stir to mix well. Sprinkle top with additional shredded cheddar.
Cook on low 4 - 5 hours.
Enjoy!  :)

Feature Friday - Pan Handle

 

 Today's feature is a brand new item in my store.  I made these after talking to a gal at my kid's swimming lessons!  It's a pan handle holder.  What a great idea!  Thanks Janene!  No more trying to remember where you set down your pot holder!  It stays right on the handle!  Especially cast iron!  I have a few regular pans whose handles heat up, and this will be great when having to strain veggies or drain meat! You can find these handy dandy holders here.  I would love to make them to match your kitchen.       Makes a great gift for a friend as well!
      Happy Friday!  Thanks for stopping by!

Iced Coffee

I so love coffee!  But when it gets hot out....not so much.  Then I discovered iced coffee.  I'm probably not sharing anything totally new.  There's lots of recipes out there for iced coffees.  There's even one out there for "Just-Like-Dairy-Queen-Moolatte"! YUM!!!
But I usually don't want the ice cream - too many calories. Okay, okay... I want it, I just shouldn't have it that often! :) So.... I have I have my own version of the frappes, and iced coffees.
It's super easy and quick. I take my glass and fill it with crushed ice, then I add my favorite flavored creamer, then poor some strong coffee over it.  The best thing is since my glass is full of ice, I can pour the coffee in right after it's brewed.  No need to wait for it to cool!
It can also be made with milk and carmel or chocolate syrup, (or use one of the flavored coffee syrups that are available - Raspberry, anyone?).  You can customize it to your own little taste buds - sweeter or more coffee flavor - it's up to you! :)  Enjoy today sipping on your own iced coffee creation!

Feature Friday

I know it's late!  My busy summer schedule has begun, ready or not! (Mostly not.)
I'm still having fun though! Today's feature is my Baby Blue Beach Bums! I love making these adorable little sandals.  The soles are made from two layers of crochet.   They are quite sturdy.  The sandals are made for babies size 0 - 3 months.  There is a button on the side to connect the heal strap and keep them securely on baby's feet.
I have a pair in blue and 2 pairs in pink available  here (blue) and  here  (pink).  I would love to make them in custom colors!  Great for a baby shower gift!
Thanks for stopping by!  :) Have a great weekend!

Mmm.....Monday - Trifles

Howdy! I can't believe it's been two weeks since my last post!  I was on vacation (much needed and very relaxing), and then you know how it is, it takes a week to get back into routine after! :)
For today's post, I thought I would share this trifle! Doesn't it just shout "summer"!!!!!
Yum!
I'm going grocery shopping later today, so I think I'll round up the ingredients and surprise my family!
You can find all you need to make this desert at http://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/strawberry-angel-trifle
Leave a comment and let me know what your favorite trifle recipe is! :)

Feature Friday - Turtle Magnet

     Here's a happy little friend for your fridge!  This little guy is so so fun to make!  I came up with the pattern after a special request from a customer at last summer's craft fair.  The magnet is the same type as my chicken magnet.  They can securely hold five pieces of paper without slipping.
     Here's one interesting fact about turtles: in some breeds, the temperature the eggs are exposed to determines whether the turtles will be boys or girls!
     Check out these magnet turtles at my shop.
       Happy Friday!  Enjoy your Memorial Day weekend!  :)

Cute Chair Decor

     I love looking through decorating ideas!  I stumbled across this one today while waiting for some work on my car to get done.
     On our family's birthdays, I decorate the honored person's chair with balloons.   I have to say, I like this idea too! It's simple and clean.  It would be a great way to decorate for a special dinner or holiday too! I found it on http://www.karaspartyideas.com/2013/05/spring-cookie-decorating-party.html.
     Have a great day!  Thanks for stopping by! :)

Mason Jar Lantern

I have a "thing" for Mason jars! Just ask my family! This one is my latest find! The glass top is still intact! I found it garage sale shopping with my husband!  (A great date, if you ask me !)
Mason jars lend themselves to so many uses! Just Google "mason jars" once and click on images to see what I mean! I love them because they remind me of simplicity and frugality! :)

  I got this Mason jar project (pictured above) in my inbox today. Aren't they pretty?  I've seen this before and have always wanted to do it.   My only problem is, I have no deck or place to hang them. But I won't let that stop me! I've been looking for something that sparkles to catch people's eye at my craft fair this summer.  I think this will do the trick! Maybe I can find mosquito repellent candles to put in! :)  (Anybody know where I can find some of those?)  Here's the link to the one that was in my inbox: Mason Jar Lantern.  There are many others out there too, but this one is good and basic to get you started! Happy crafting!

Monday's Reflections

     Happy Monday!   I like Mondays.  They are a fresh new beginning to a brand new week with lots of potential!  Saturday we went to a wedding!   I had to share these photos.   I thought these were simple but elegant ideas!
     First, I love the table set up for the wedding party! White tablecloth,  white lights under white tule, flickering candles, and fresh flowers.  Gorgeous!
     Second, the cupcake tree! I love the shading of the cupcake wraps! And on top, the cake for the bride and groom!  Very clever display! (They were very yummy too!) :)
    Congrats David and Daydra! :)

Feature Friday - Wispy Willow Booties

Yay!  We made it to Friday!  Today's feature is my Wispy Willow Baby Booties.  They are crocheted from acrylic yarn with eyelash yarn in the bottom of the cuff.  They fit babies tootsies that are 0-3 months. :)
Contrasting brown soles complement the wispy cuff.  I love these in white, but they would look adorable in yellow or pink or... you choose! You can order a pair by clicking here. If you want something other than white please let me know.   These would make the perfect baby gift! They would be cute as an ornament or as a decoration to commemorate baby's first accomplishments!
I love making them!
Thanks for stopping by! :)