Crae's Creations

Zebra Princess Cake & Cupcakes

2012-02-20T19:32:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Madison!

One year ago today I was introduced to a little girl named Madison. I was asked by Amy McAllister to make a birthday cake and cupcakes for Madison 1st Birthday celebration. Through talking to Amy, I learned that Madi lost her mother during child birth. I felt honored to be asked to help celebrate the life of this beautiful little girl. Yet, saddened because it was also the one year anniversary of her mommy's death.

Heavenely Father blessed this sweet little angel with large amounts of love. From all who knew her, knew her mommy, and her daddy. Amy, was Madi's moms great friend. Amy has taken Madison in, whenever necessary and has helped raise this little lady. I admire Amy for her strength to lose a best friend, yet celebrate the life of her daughter.

Last month I was informed that Madison had yet another major trial. Her daddy returned to heaven to join her mommy. I didn't know either of Madison's parents, but my heart was immediately broken. How could such a small child endure such great loss? Who would take her? Who would raise her?

With the help of Madi's grandparents and Amy, she is a happy two year old - celebrating her 2nd birthday! I think of Madi and I realize how precious life is. It can be taken in an instant. We need to celebrate life, show sincere love and concern to those around us, delight in spending time with our family, and embrace one another always. For you never know.

Happy Birthday Princess Madi

May All Your Hopes & Dreams Come True!

St. Louis Cardinals Cake

2011-11-05T21:59:00.000-07:00

Now, I'm not a super big baseball fan, but I have a friend who is a huge St. Louis Cardinals fan! And his birthday just happened to fall a few days after the Cards won the world series!

What better way to celebrate than with the coolest, freaking birthday cake ever?!

Griffin (my three year old) walked into the kitchen and asked if he could see the cake. I picked him up and immediatley he said "Oh mom! It's ANGRY BIRDS! Me love it!" with a giggle, giggle.

Well, angry birds wasn't really what I was going for, but he knew it was a bird - so that's good - right?

Delivering the cake to the birthday boy....

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JERRY!

(I think he likes it - yeah?)

GO CARDS!

Cowgirl Cake, Baseball Baby Shower & A Marathon

2011-10-02T07:07:00.000-07:00

I have been a busy little bee this week.

Friday night I had a little moment. I started to think I was doing to much.

Everything that could have happened in this week DID! The hubs working late, the cake/cupcake orders coming in, working my regular schedule which was busier than normal, kids with school, preschool cancelled, Visiting Teaching (last week of the month and I'm "that" person), carb loading lunch with the team, oh yeah, and did I mention the ST. GEORGE MARATHON on Saturday?

Slightly overwhelming week, but oh so worth every minute!

Every task was accomplished and for the most part, right on time!

I got the order for a pink and white cowgirl boot cake. In my mind I knew what I wanted to do. I am in love with how it turned! The birthday girl requested white cake with buttercream frosting. Yu hum!

Baseball Baby Shower for Baby Liam! Red Velvet cake with buttercream...Delish!

The cake is my fav!

Leann, Shay, Me and Shaunna

Waiting for the patty wagon to take us to the start line. Yep, perks of being cops wives. We didn't have to wait for the buses to shuttle us.

Crossing the finish line. One of the most amazing experiences ever.

You can't see it, but I had used my Cricut and vinyl to put this saying on the back of my shirt...

26.2

Because I Can

Being my 2nd time running a full marathon, I knew I could do it. We (Shay and I) had probably 50-60 runners comment and tell us they LOVED our shirts! Yeah, we're cool like that!

Me and Shay at the finish. I am so lucky for great running friends. She is what keeps me going and keeps me sane. When I want to quit, she reminds me I can finish. Running takes a physical toll, but a mental one as well. I am lucky to have Shay to pull me along.

Black & White Wedding Cake

2011-09-14T17:24:00.000-07:00

With a Splash of Green

My first tiered wedding cake for Lexi Plumb's Wedding.

I love how it came together and it looks so beautiful next to the vases of flowers!

Congrats Lexi!

Hello Kitty Birthday Party

2011-08-21T20:39:00.000-07:00

My seven year old LOVES Hello Kitty.

Her fasination started with Hello Kitty about two years ago.

I am surprised it as lasted this long.

We had a small family party this year.

Breakfast at the park, spent the afternoon swimming, crab legs and salmon for dinner (HER REQUEST!) and then cupcakes and presents to end the day.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CHARLEE!

Woody's Round Up Birthday Party

2011-08-15T18:06:00.000-07:00

My Little Griffin Man turned THREE!

I love how excited he was to hear everyone singing to him!

Making his wish and blowing out the candles.

He is to cute for words!

There's A Snake In My Boot!

Happy Birthday Griffin.

Mommy loves you more than ever.

Sea Turtle Cake & Cupcakes

2011-07-24T07:50:00.000-07:00

Can you say "CUTE!"?

When I got the order for a Sea Turtle I must admit I was very nervous. I had never done anything with this much detail. So, I put my nerves aside and got to work. I must admit, I am in LOVE with this little guy! And the overall presentation!

Pardon my attire, after I delivered and set up the cake/cupcakes we headed to a pool party.

The cupcake tower complete with cupcakes.

Chocolate Coconut and Raspberry Mango.

Basketball Baby Shower

2011-07-10T20:43:00.000-07:00

For Justine and Little Dickey!

Justine and Dwayne are having a baby boy!

They can't decide on a name so they have nicknamed him

LITTLE DICKEY!

Basketball Centerpieces

The tables for the guests were set up on an outside basketball court.

What better place for a B-ball shower than on the court?

Of course the water, with labels.

The Food - oh yummy!

Thanks for Coming! Table

Our little thank you's.

Jealin had a great idea to leave the envelopes out for the guests to write their name and address on. At the end of the party we gave Justine the envelopes with the cards, this way her "Thank You Cards" are all addressed and she doesn't have to hunt down address! BRILLIANT!

Jealin, Me and Kellie - The party planners!

Justine "Mama to Be!" Jealin, Me and Kellie

(Don't mind that my boobs look lopsided...dang stripes!)

Baby Birth Announcement {Revisted}

2011-07-09T19:34:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I posted a Birth Announcement - Subway Art print I made here.

For this beautiful baby girl.

My sweet little niece. Kennedy.

Her mom and dad blessed her this past weekend.

I saved the gift to give for this special day.

Here's the finished project.

I created the print in photoshop.

Purchased an unfinished frame from Roberts.

Painted and antiqued it.

Added some silk ribbon flowers.

Love.

Garden Party Cupcakes

2011-06-25T21:17:00.000-07:00

Cupcakes for Autumn's First Garden Birthday Party.

Happy Birthday!

Father's Day Gift Idea

2011-06-15T21:53:00.000-07:00

Eighteen 25 had the CUTEST Father's Day Gift Idea.

It is simple enough the kids can make it.

So, what did I do?

Bought enough supplies for all Webelos Scout boys to pass of a requirement by making one for their Dad's - Perfect.

Nothing like a little craft time with a group of Cub Scouts.

I changed it up just a little bit from the original. I used the free printable ties from Shindig Parties and the free template for the collar from Eighteen 25.

I live in a small town. We are not lucky enough to have a Hobby Lobby. I had to improvise on the jars. I had PLENTY of quart sized mason jars. Seemed to do the trick.

My boys had plenty of fun making these little guys for their Dad's.

Now I have my "Not Scout" kids wanting to make them too!

Happy Father's Day!

Birth Announcement - Subway Art

2011-06-14T21:46:00.000-07:00

Last month our family welcomed a new baby.

Shaunna - If you are reading this STOP NOW!

Unless you want to see the little surprise I have for you!

I get the honor of having another niece!

Don't you just LOVE babies?

I DO!

They smell delicious, soft skin, and they are just plain precious.

I saw something similar to this Subway Art and new I had to make one for our sweet new addition.

(I just can't remember where...I really need to do better at keeping track of where I see all these amazing ideas. People are brilliant and I owe credit to the person who created the original - cuz it wasn't me.)

Print it. Frame it. Gift it.

PERFECT.

Just like a brand new baby.

Father's Day

2011-06-12T09:19:00.000-07:00

Next week is Father's Day!

Check out Shindig Parties for this adorable free printable to help your Father's Day even more spectacular!

How cute is this?

Ice Cream Soda

2011-05-28T21:11:00.000-07:00

Cherry On Top

Who's Your Boyfriend? I forgot!

Is it A, B, C, D, E, F, G......?

Do remember singing that jump rope song as a kid?

I completely forgot about it until my daughter was skipping rope on the back patio while singing it.

Of course, we had to make Ice Cream Soda Cherry on Top Cupcakes!

Ahhh....Memories. Days of jump ropes and silly songs!

Chocolate cupcakes with cherry cola frosting. Top it with sprinkles and a cherry and you have got yourself a cupcake sister!

Now, off you go. Jump rope with your little girl today!

Goodbye School ... Hello Summer!

2011-05-24T20:04:00.000-07:00

Hooray! I am so excited the kids are FINALLY out for Summer Break!

I love living in Southern Utah, the kids are out of school before Memorial Day, the weather is fabulous and screams "HELLO SUMMER! COME AND PLAY!"

This year my Little's (they really aren't little anymore - soon to be 4th and 2nd graders) wanted to take a little treat to their classmates. A treat that said something like

GOODBYE SCHOOL
HELLO SUMMER!

I remembered I had about 50 baby food jars! Perfect for storing little treats.

Want to make some for your Little's?

Here is what you will need:

Recycled baby food jars

Ribbon and twine

Printable Labels - You can use mine if you want too!

Spray Paint

Mod Podge

M&M's or Skittles

Print labels and Mod Podge labels to clean jars. Spray paint lids black. Fill with M&M's or Skittles and tie with ribbon and twine!

HAPPY SUMMER!!!

Sunflower Cupcake & Spring Birthday Cake

2011-05-21T20:50:00.000-07:00

Who loves a birthday? I do, I do!

Seriously though! Who wouldn't? What is a birthday without cake? And what is cake without FROSTING? So, here is the latest SPRING cake and cupcakes for some fabulous birthdays I have had the privilege of being apart of!

These sunflower cupcakes are to DIE for. My sister ordered these for her boss. She ~~told me~~ requested:

"SOMETHING CHOCOLATEE, LEMONEE, AND MAKE IT LOOK LIKE A SUNFLOWER....PLEASE."

Chocolate Cupcake, Lemon Custard Filling and Lemon Frosting decorated into a Sunflower.

Simply Beautiful!

Shutter Up

2011-05-16T20:26:00.000-07:00

Really.

I LOVE Char over at Crap I've Made. She is hysterical. And, I'm in love with these.

Her KEY LIME SHUTTERS.

I want to track her down and take them. But that would be mean. So I won't.

I will, I must. MAKE. MY. OWN.

I headed out to Habitat ReStore and found my own set of of shutters.

Only FOUR DOLLARS.

Yeah, I'm that good.

Stay tuned... Those bad boys are in the works and will be posted soon!

Easter Essentials

2011-04-19T07:59:00.000-07:00

Easter has snuck up on me without me knowing! (besides, driving tractor on the farm for my brothers all day kind of fills my day) We have been pretty busy lately, so all the good intentions of fun activities had to lay by the wayside. I only managed to get one new Easter idea done this year.

This darling Easter Egg countdown, of course, from the cute gals at Eighteen25. The kids have been having fun opening an egg daily and doing the activity. The great thing is that you can fill some with candy and then make up your own activities to put in the others. That way, this countdown is personalized to your family Easter traditions. How cool is this?!!!

*Extra Perk* If you haven't made this countdown, wait until after Easter and score some plastic eggs and grass super cheap and make a bunch for next year. What a great gift to give family, friends, neighbors, etc.

There is one more activity on my MUST do list for Easter this weekend: Resurrection Rolls. Feathers from my Nest has a great tutorial on these. What a great lesson for the kids and yummy at the same time.

Happy Easter Friends!

Don't forget to use some of your good not-left-out-in-the-sun-too-long-during-the-hunt-colored-easter-eggs for the super de-lish Egg Salad BLT's recipe Julie posted (next post).

Egg Salad BLT's

2011-04-15T19:50:00.000-07:00

Remember when Tara told us how EXCITED she was to get this?

Well, since then I have been drooling over of the recipes on their BLOG and tonight we had these:

Egg Salad BLT

They are DELICIOUS! I added a few extra ingredients - avocado slices and provolone cheese.

You know it's good when your kids eat it and say this:

"Wow mom! This is the best dinner ever!"

Perfection.

Cupcakes Galore!

2011-04-10T07:47:00.000-07:00

(painting by Etsy seller, jennysbakeshop)

A few days ago a friend posted a similar picture on my facebook wall stating "This so SCREAMS Julie." Little did she know how my week was shaping up, these little words of encouragement helped me make it through.

Jade, you were inspired in your post, not only did I have A cupcake - but I had THREE HUNDRED cupcakes!

Just to clarify, I did not EAT three hundred cupcakes. I only ate one, or two...!

Want to know a little secret? I didn't start building this bad boy of a cupcake tree until Thursday night around 8:30. Friday was my "bake the 300 cupcakes and cake day" and Saturday was the wedding. I started to think I may have procrastinated a little to long. But, it all started coming together. I then realized I shouldn't doubt myself. I had everything all under control. All I needed was to heed these wise words of advice:

KEEP CALM and HAVE A CUPCAKE!

Stay calm. Eat a cupcake. Or two. Everything is going to be fabulous!

Update: When talking the bride and discussing the theme of her wedding, I found this cupcake stand. This is where the inspiration came from in creating the piece. The first website I found, the stand was selling for $349.99, Boss Manufactoring has it for $229.99. I knew I could create something on a larger scale for MUCH less than that.

Easy, Inexpensive and Cute Baby Gift!!

2011-03-31T14:42:00.000-07:00

Sorry friends for my lack in posting. I will admit it: I have been a slacker! Moving on....a friend of mine had a baby recently and so I made her this little frame for her daughter's room.

I didn't know her baby room colors, so I chose something I liked, hot pint and black. I used the common and super inexpensive wood frame found at Michaels. Love those frames. I use them for EVERYTHING!

I originally found this idea on Rachel Berry Blog last year and have made some for other friends, but remembered to actually take a picture this time.

added some fabric roses and tulle for some girly flair

There you have it! Simple, inexpensive and personalized for that special touch.

Music in the Park - Bowler Wedding

2011-03-20T13:34:00.000-07:00

I wish I could tell you this was just the beginning of ALL the work that went into this reception, but it's NOT! This is the night before the reception, all of us ladies HARD at work.

This woman - MARY WILSON. She is insanely talented and probably one of the greatest women you will ever meet. I am a better person by just knowing her. She has more talent in her little finger than I could ever hope to have! She cooks, bakes, sews, knits, crafts, creates, serves her family, children, church, and neighbors AND is the most giving woman on the planet. The best part? She does it all with a sincere SMILE on her face! She is freaking AMAZING!

Let me just start off by letting you in on a little secret. Tenting the church gym is never a good idea - it looks beautiful, but it is A LOT of work, and I mean A LOT!!! I slipped on that stinkin' tulle and about broke my leg and arm. So, if you are up for it, DO IT! But know ahead of time what you are getting yourself into! I now consider myself a PRO! I seriously think I climbed that 14 foot ladder over 150 times yesterday!

The Ice Cream Cart - I have to tell you, we had the CUTEST Ice Cream man serving the guests! He had on a vintage ice cream hat and apron, black and white wingtip shoes, OH, he was the BEST. To bad I don't have a picture to show you :(

The tissue balls - which are now known as the POOFY BALLS (gotta love my honey Mike) hanging over the Ice Cream Bar.

Which was FILLED with tantalizing treats, splendid sweets all to top the ice cream and satisfy your taste buds.

Music was a must - especially with the theme! The piano, tables, and side tables were decorated with rose topiary's and musical luminaries.

The "THANK YOU" for coming boxes. Displayed so elegantly on a table for the guest to take as the left the reception.

All of the boxes are handmade, along with the vintage sheet music flowers on the top.

To hide the accordion doors (or to distract, I guess!) we hung sheet music flowers, pictures and love sayings making them look as if they were floating in the air. Here is where the guest were able to leave the gifts - in a big wooden wagon and below a stone water fountain.

Tulle and luminaries tented the venue, giving just enough light, offering a walk in the park at moonlight feel.

Holly and I are pretty proud of these little meringues! They look ADORABLE and they taste FABULOUS! How tacky would it be to set out a spray can of whipped cream? So, we piped meringue into swirls and baked them to create the same effect. Oh, but let me tell you these little goodies are delicious and were snatched up like potato chips! People were eating them by the handfuls! YEP, that good!

Definitely a night to remember!

The centerpieces for the tables. Vases filled with roses and several musical luminaries glowing. The table runners were all handmade by a woman in a neighboring ward. The are so elegant and pulled the tables together.

The cupcake tower! It turned out even more beautiful than I had envisioned it. I custom made the stand to fit into the theme of the wedding, using all vintage sheet music.

Another shot of my beautiful cake and cupcakes - breath taking!

Me and cutie pie Madison!

Julie, Holly, Tami

The girls relaxing for a minute on a park bench, taking a much needed break.

The hours and hours that went into creating this affair will forever be burned into my brain. I am physically exhausted. But, have you ever just sat back and stared at what you have created and smile? This is how I feel about the event. Everything turned out better than we had planned.

Besides being called the "kitchen help" several times....

It truly was a night to remember.

(Photography by Wendy Winget & Holly Worthington)

The Musical Cake

2011-03-20T13:02:00.000-07:00

I AM SO EXCITED to share this Wedding Cupcake Tower with you!

The theme for the wedding was "Music in the Park." The bride and groom LOVE everything musical, so they wanted it incorporated into the wedding theme. The colors were black and white (of course!) and RED! Oh, I love the color red, especially for a wedding. There is something so stunning and romantic about the color RED!

Once the fondant is on, the fun part begins....

Oh, she is B-E-A-Utiful!

I just can't get enough of it, I love how it turned out!

I hand made all the musical notes and bars. And used a fondant cutter for the flowers.

To read about the "Music in the Park" wedding, click here. All the little details are what made this reception AMAZING! (Did I mention that Holly and I are two of the four wedding planners??) Yeah, you gotta check it out!

Luck of the Irish

2011-03-16T14:44:00.001-07:00

Somewhere over the rainbow you might find your pot of gold. Well, I like to eat mine. And I am totally THRILLED to share this post with you. You might have guessed that I can create something someone else has already made, a.k.a. copying. I love to make things and I am very good at copying, just not creating. I just want to scream at the top my of lungs that I finally created something: Rainbow Fruit Pizza! And just in time for St. Patrick's Day too. What a yummy way to serve fruit.

Okay, if this isn't an original idea of mine and it has already been discovered and in blogland for years now, please don't dash my spirits right now. Wait until next week to tell me that I once again am not original. I can take it, but not until next week, okay? Thanks.

I will let you in on a hint. Just make the regular fruit pizza and then cut in in half. Bam! {love you Emeril} There you go, your own rainbow.

Okay, super simple recipe here folks:

-your favorite sugar cookie dough

-your favorite fruits (think colors of the rainbow)

-this topping:

8oz pkg cream cheese

8oz container of whipped topping (small tub)

1 tsp vanilla

1/4 c sugar

Beat cream cheese. Add vanilla and sugar. Fold in whipped topping.

Spread the sugar cookie dough on your baking sheet to make a giant circle. Bake as directed. Cool completely. Prepare your fruits. I used a large serrated knife and went around the baked sugar cookie to release it from the baking pan. I then cut it in half! This will make two rainbow fruit pizzas. I transfered the half rainbow to a serving dish. Spread with half the topping and the add the fruit, arranging to your desire. Super simple. Super yummy. and Super impressive. You have one to eat and one to give away, again, adding to your impressiveness.

Not too shabby on my photography, I must admit. Makes me want to reach into the screen and pick off a grape and pop it in my mouth.

with edible clouds

or with your pot of gold

Which ever way you like it, it is a delicious treat that any little Leprechaun would love. Whip one up tonight for your little leprechauns!

Scrabble

2011-03-04T20:25:00.000-08:00

I have the best friend in the whole world!

I love scrabble more than anything, well I might love Julie more for making me this adorable scrabble picture with my families names on it! She even took the pieces from her own scrabble game! She will add on to this post to tell us how she made this masterpiece!

Love you so much Julie!

Hey friends! - It's me, Julie. Can you tell how much Holly LOVES Scrabble? Just a little bit, huh?

The use of Scrabble pieces is a HOT TICKET ITEM right now, it's all over the crafting blogs but I have yet to see something like this! So, I am a little excited about this!

To start off, I used a coupon and purchased a magnetic board at the local craft store. Pulled out some cute paper, paint, distressing ink, magnets, and Mod Podge from my "Crafting Closet" then raided my Scrabble game.

1. Paint the wood on the magnetic board. Sand edges to distress.

2. Cut paper to fit metal sheet and distress edges with ink.

3. Mod Podge paper to metal. Or you could use spray adhesive?

4. Distress edges of scrabble pieces with ink.

5. Apply magnets to backside of scrabble pieces.

6. Arrange your family scrabble names and ENJOY!

I am really lovin' this idea because it is multi functional - it can be used for decor and also if you want, you can use it to play! If you attached magnets to all the pieces, you could use it as your scrabble board. It wouldn't have all the "special" squares on it, but it could still be a fun version of scrabble. Don't ya think?

Go, get your SCRABBLE on!

Yummy Goodness

2011-03-03T09:41:00.000-08:00

I have a crush. A fetish. An obsession. Not really sure what to call it, but I do spend a lot of time with Kate and Sara on their blog Our Best Bites. Now, I crush on them at home and drool over their luscious photographs in my new cookbook of theirs. Just came in my mail monday. The hubby was sweet and got it for me for valentine's day. Because I am such a fan, I was elated he did so well as giving me a thoughtful gift. Now that I think about it, it was a selfish and clever gift for himself. Think about it. I cook from my new dream cookbook and he eats like a king. Smart man, my hubby is. Oh well, I guess we both win from this.

I have been trying recipes from their blog for a while now. I am elated to have them all in one nice, neat little book at my fingertips. Plus, they have this really cool little section in the back called the "rollover ingredient" section. If you have extra of an ingredient, say buttermilk, look there for recipes to use it in. Genius.

So, here is the link to one of my favorite little recipes of their and a reader favorite too: Baked Creamy Chicken Taquitos. hEaVeN!! And fairly simple to make too! Just try it. You will be hooked like I am. Maybe they should hire me to endorse their blog, cookbook, recipes, etc. No really, their recipes are really really good.

Baked Creamy Chicken Taquitos

Don't forget to make the Creamy Lime Cilantro Dressing! This is a knock off of Cafe Rio's dressing and it is dreamy. This dinner makes my knees weak. Make this for me and I will do anything for you. Really!

Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss

2011-03-02T08:15:00.000-08:00

It is Read Across America Day and Dr. Seuss's Birthday. What a fun way to inspire your little ones to read. And why not read a fun, qwarky, rhyming book from Dr. Seuss. Here are some other ideas:

Random Thoughts of a Supermom has a cute and easy candy version of Green Eggs and Ham

Sew your own felt hat with Mama Lusco Handmade

Thing 1 and Thing 2 cupcakes from Kitchen Dough Dough

Make a Horton Hears a Who craft from FamilyCrafts

green egg mini cakes from Under the Table and Dreaming

cutest party ideas from Kara's Party Ideas

You're never too old,

too wacky, too wild,

to pick up a book

and read to a child.

and a super cute printable from Are They Twins

(click on their site to see their super cute printable, had technical difficulties)

More ideas found at this round up One Pretty Thing

And Dr. Seuss has a website jam packed with fun activities!

Go wild and crazy today, Dr. Seuss style, and READ!

*UPDATE*

I came across this website that is about Dr. Suess. So many ideas, so little time! So much fun! Click on the picture.

St. Patrick's Day LUCK Banner

2011-02-28T16:14:00.000-08:00

Lucky Charms!

I am really excited we have more time this year between holidays. Usually St. Patrick's Day and Easter are so close, the GREEN holiday gets overlooked...but not this year!

I really wanted some cute little lucky charms hanging around this year. I went to the closet to see what I could find. Green felt, green scrap fabric and a cricut to cut out a clover and we are ready to go!

I used my cricut to cut out a clover on card stock - about a 3-4 inch size.

Trace each clover onto your felt and fabric and cut out.

I also used the cricut to cut out the words LUCK onto the card stock. I used Heat n Bond and adhered it to some fabric. Traced the letters onto the fabric and cut them out as well.

Wow! Check out the UGLY, GROSS ironing board cover! I think it is time it be replaced.

Anyway, back to the task at hand... I took a small piece of Heat n Bond to adhere the two clovers together. Less wiggle when it came to sewing them, or no sew if you don't wanna!!??

Iron the clovers and the letters on.

I strung a piece of twine from one hook to the other and used four small clothes pins to attach them.

And there you have it... You're Lucky Charms!

I'm loving me some Lucky Charms!!

Brussel Sprouts & Bacon

2011-02-25T16:08:00.000-08:00

YES! You read that right!

BRUSSELS SPROUTS & BACON.

I always wanted to like Buster Browns (has my Mama calls 'em) but I just couldn't. They tasted like dirty socks. Then one day, I came home with MORE than one family could possibly eat - thanks to the lovely fruit and veggie co-op we all love Bountiful Baskets.

I couldn't let all these green veggies go to waste. So I had to find a recipe that would spark my ~~kids~~ interest. When I saw a recipe call for BACON, I knew in my heart of hearts this would be a HIT!

And it was DELICIOUS!

I will never look at these little green things the same!

I guess I had been cooking them wrong. And I am really happy I learned how to cook them RIGHT! Because they truly are amazing and with bacon.... OH YUM!

Here's How:

Wash and rinse brussels sprouts

Peel off outer layer on all sprouts and cut in half

Chop bacon into chunky pieces

Pour a little olive oil in a pan

Toss in brussels sprouts and bacon

Coat with Greek Seasoning - Oh how I love this stuff!

If you are an onion lover, chop up some onions and throw those in too!

Saute until bacon begins to crisp but make sure you don't burn the brussels sprouts!

My kids and I were a little nervous at first. But, trust me - it was DIVINE!

When I began my recipe search, I just used the main ingredients - the bacon, brussels sprouts and olive oil! They all called for weird items I didn't have on hand so this is kind of my own made up recipe. If you want a more gourmet version, give it a google!

Got Cold Feet?

2011-02-20T16:20:00.000-08:00

I do. All. The. Time. I blame it on my Dad. He has cold feet too.

I don't enjoy my cold feet, but I do love when my toes are toasty.

So, I came up with a solution for my cold toes!

A quick, easy and inexpensive heat pack to keep your toes nice and toasty!

What to make one for you? Well, let's get to it!

I started off with two old pillow covers from Ikea and a scrap piece of fabric. I wanted to use the pillow covers because they have zippers. I like the idea of being able to "change" the insides of the heat pack when it's time.

I wanted the packs to be long and skinny - to fit nicely in the bottom of the bed. I measured 9.5 inches from the top and cut the bottom off.

Turn the fabric inside out, so the right sides are together.

Sew a 1/2 inch seam allowance along the bottom/open end, closing it up!

Turn it right side out, and press. See how nice and pretty she looks!?

You can stop here, because technically it's done. You can fill it full of good things like:

beans

rice

rock salt

tea bags (makes it smell pretty)

BUT, if you want to give it some character...let's carry on!

I used my Cricut to cut out some letters on card stock. I wanted these two packs to say "TOES." I then used Heat n Bond and adhered it to the green fabric. I traced the the letters on the fabric and cut them out. I know you are supposed to be able to cut out fabric on the Cricut, but every time I try I fail miserably. I took the long road and did it by hand today!

After cutting out the fabric letters, I ironed them onto the heat pack.

Filled it full of good things. And, check out how cute! I am actually giving these two to my mom and dad. I know my dad will LOVE having warm toes.

The other great idea about this!? In the summer when it's hot?! Throw this in the freezer in the morning, by bedtime, toss it in bed and it's sure to COOL you down! Yeah, I know BRILLIANT!!!

How cute would this be for a wedding gift? His and Hers? Mine and Yours?

Here is the cute one I made for me! I didn't have a zipper at home, so I used Velcro, not a shabby idea!

I was even in such a good mood I taught Cooper and Charlee how to sew. Here are the heat packs they made ALL by themselves. I swear! I didn't do a thing. I sat next to them at talked them through everything, but they did it all! I have to say, they did a FABULOUS job!

I love these little things. I throw them in the microwave while the kids are getting their jammies on and brushing teeth. Put them in the bottoms of their beds and it keeps them warm. I can turn the heat down at night and there are no complaints of being cold!

So friends, say goodbye to cold feet and hello to

TOASTY TOES!

Leftover Love

2011-02-16T13:09:00.000-08:00

I'm sure you're over Valentine's Day.

I am.

Cleaned it up yesterday, boxed, and packed away until next year. However, we just finished the leftovers from this German Chocolate Drizzle Cake that I made for my hubby on Monday.

Yes, this cake is as good as it looks. The frosting was DIVINE. We had plenty to share. You better bet we shared this cake (I'm already failing miserably on my new years resolution to slim down a little). It was huge. It also paired nicely with a couple of tall glasses of ice cold milk. You have to try it. It was finger lickn' good.

Valentine's School Party

2011-02-15T12:21:00.000-08:00

So here is a cute idea Julie and I came up with.

I am one of the room mother's in my daughter's kindergarden class which means we throw all the parties! Crazy I know. So I went in and took a picture of all the children the week before. Cut and sanded out some wood. Painted and distressed the wood and then they were ready for the kids to glue their pictures on and put their thumb prints on for their Mom's I hope they liked them!

Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-13T19:16:00.000-08:00

Oh My! Valentine's Day Is Here!

Now, I am the "Slacker Mother of the Year," - because we just finished our Valentine Box on Saturday afternoon and our Valentine Cards on Sunday night.

So, for your viewing pleasure.....

The Valentine Box & Cards for Cooper

A little story behind this box (you know I ALWAYS have a story). Cooper desperately wants an Ipod Touch. I won't buy him one. He's only NINE and I refuse to spend that much money on one more piece of electronics!

So, I made him a paper IPod. Then he informed me he wanted FLAMES on his box. FLAMES? Please tell me how FLAMES and an IPOD go together?

This is the best I could do. Along the top it says "To Hot To Touch." Get it? I hope so...!!???

The backside (sorry the pictures a little - ok a lot blurry) of course the Apple Icon!

Now, the Valentine's Cards I am pretty proud of - mainly because I came up with this little idea all by my little self! Looks like an ordinary deck of cards, right? WRONG!

I used some super cute digital scrapbook paper from Summertime Designs and Photoshop to created this card. I guess the reason I am so proud of it, is because that deck of cards you see...well I designed it! By that I mean, I started out with a plain piece of paper, created hearts, used some tools to make it look like you are holding the deck of cards in your hand. (So I sat here for a long time trying to figure out what word to use to describe that process and I am dumb and can't think of one...). I scaled it down to fit two cards on one 4x6 photo print and used spray adhesive to adhere it to the deck of cards!

BRiLLiANT!

The Valentine Box & Cards for Charlee

I took Charlee to the craft store (our favorite place to go together!) and let her pick out TWO pieces of paper. This is what she decided on! She LOVED the little Love Birds, and so did I. We found all the ribbon and embellishments in my "Closet of Awesomeness" to decorate the rest of her box. She cut out all the hearts and told me where to put everything! I have a little mini me on my hands!

(Forgive the nice little off the shoulder look she has going on here...she was in her pajamas)

Here is my little sweet thing showing off her Valentine cards. I used a scrapbook kit called Cloud Nine (for the life of me I cannot remember where I got this kit but it is freaking adorable!) and scaled them down to fit two on one 4x6 photo print. We filled little cello bags with cinnamon hearts and attached her card with some twine.

Now, just so we all know - the cost of the Valentine boxes? $1.50 FOR BOTH! I kid you not! I drove through Del Taco and asked them if I could buy two of the Fiest Pack boxes minus all the food. The nice lady said "We don't sell them and we don't give them away - but I will let you have them!" SWEET!! The only out of pocket cost was the two pieces of paper I let Charlee buy. The rest? Came out of the closet.

Really, you have to just LOVE Valentine's Day! I know some people hate it and think it is a waste of money, but come on! It is a FUN day to show others you care. So all you LOVE haters - don't be haters be lovers!

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!!

R U Ready?

2011-02-08T07:03:00.000-08:00

Valentine's Day is quickly upon us. There are so many cute valentine ideas around blogland that I have just been in awe. I'm not sure if Julie and Holly feel the same way, but speaking for myself, I have just had so much fun looking at everyone's ideas and getting inspired. Instead of posting a lot about the crafty holiday ideas, I have spent this holiday actually crafting and enjoying it with my kids. Sometimes I have to remind myself that it is best to make them first priority.

I have made some cute valentine decor for the house including some of these ideas:

Valentine Subway Art from Eighteen25

Valentine Snowflakes

(photo from Peppermintplum since we already mailed our off valentine packages to family members)

We also made these heart shaped snowflakes from Family Fun. So clever!

Along with our very own Julie's "Owl Always Love You" Owls. Haven't gotten around to make the plaque yet, still on the to-do list.

Mom (me) decided to make our valentines this year. They were so much cuter than store bought cards, but a little more time than I thought they would be. I guess everything always looks easier in blogland. That's okay though. We had a very enjoyable family night fully prepared with suckers in our mouths, making valentines, and listening to music.

Okay, not sure about the very wild hair going on here. My little girl did the ever so famous lollipop photo cards (made famous originally HERE, I think). She only had a few to do for family.

Next, was my son's valentines. I blog surfed and found five of my favorite ideas and then let him choose which one he wanted to do. Of course he didn't pick the one I was wanting him to do, still picked a great one, but I guess that is what I get when I give him autonomy! So Dana over at MADE is the awesome person that claims the credit for this stinking cute valentine idea: HEARTBREAKER VALENTINES. You have to check out her post. She has a way with photos. This is our version. Lots of cutting, letting him do the writing, stapling two sides together, filling with candy to make pillow like valentines.

But, we couldn't have done it without Dad's expert stapling skills. No, really! There was a lot of stapling going on that night.

And we finished off with a simple and cute dynamite idea from Family Fun for his teacher. "You're the BOMB Valentine". Rolos covered in paper with a pipe cleaner fuse. We also made up a few single sticks of dynamite for neighbors.

Well, there isn't much time left...so get on it, get out there and get crafting. And most importantly, tell your loved one how much they mean to you.

A Moment...For Jade

2011-02-07T10:53:00.000-08:00

Today I am feel impressed to do something different than my average post. I usually post about crafts, cupcakes, sewing, or something I have created. Today I want to share something completely different and delicate. So please, read these with a tender heart.

I have a sweet friend - Jade. For those who know her, know what an AMAZING friend, wife, sister, mother, and daughter she is. She is beautiful, talented, funny, dramatic, spunky, sassy and full of personality. Just to give you a taste of Jade, on her blog she says about herself "My husband once told me I had an unhealthy obsession for shoes. I told him he had an unhealthy obsession for me, and while he was doubled over in pure hysterics, I dropped kicked him to the ground...maybe you had to be there, but it was pretty cool!" This is Jade, she is hysterical! She always has the greatest stories to tell and always can make everyone laugh!

Jade is married to Matt, together they have a beautiful little girl, Laken and a handsome boy Track, and a few weeks ago, Jade gave birth to Locke William, who returned back to his Heavenly Father a few short minutes later. Locke was diagnosed with Trisomy 18 while Jade was pregnant with him. He beat several odds of even making it full term, Locke was a miracle and wanted to have a few minutes on earth to be with his mother.

I was able to attend the funeral of Locke William, and I can testify the Spirit of God was there, and Locke is with our Heavenly Father. I cannot imagine the pain and agony that Matt and Jade are feeling as they have lost their child, I only know the comfort that our Father in Heaven offers is what will carry us through this life. What a blessing it is to have the gospel in our lives. Jade, I know our Heavenly Father loves you, and I love you too!

Matt and Jade are the most SPECIAL parents to the most SPECIAL boy. If you want to read more about their story, you can go here. Matt set up a site where you can purchase SurvivalBands, proceeds go to help with Trisomy 18 research, you can read about it here.

Dirty Little Secret

2011-02-04T08:55:00.000-08:00

Dirty Secret Dry Shampoo by TIGI

I love this stuff. If you don't have time to wash your hair because you have a million things to do and kids screaming 'MOM' use this and you can keep your hair rockin' for one more day!

Just spray at your roots to absorb excess oils and it smells fabulous!

You can buy this at any salon that sells TIGI products but it can be quite pricey. I have found a cheaper one at Sally's Beauty Supply, works just as good just does not smell as good.

Over the Hill

2011-02-02T07:21:00.000-08:00

This is nothing spectacular by any means, but it was fun.

I threw an impromptu 60th birthday party for my mom. We are talking from a thought to the event in 24 hours! We had missed her birthday the week before because she was still very weak from the bad case of walking pneumonia she has had for what seems like the entire month of January. She was feeling better and my aunt let me know she was taking her out to dinner. I decided we would decorate my aunt's house while they were gone and have a dessert bar after their dinner. I only had 24 hours to pull this baby off and so the decoration are not stellar, but at least we surprised my mother and celebrated her momentous birthday. 60 is a big deal and I couldn't just let it slip by without telling her she was special. Most of my time was used up calling people and baking cupcakes. It was mostly just family and a few neighbor friends, very small and casual. I think if it had been planned longer, someone would have blown the surprise.

We had chocolate cupcakes with a simple buttercream frosting and silver sprinkles and also a salted caramel cupcakes (from Joy's Hope, you can find the recipe HERE), YUM. Mom has recently been through a lot and I didn't want to really focus on the "you're older than dirt" aspect and make everything black. We added a little bit of color and tried to put some silver in it to make it a little more festive.

We also gave her a portrait of the Salt Lake Temple that I made from Poppyseed Projects. I have to say thank you to my hubby for "helping". I had run out of time to do everything and asked him to take the ribbon and make a bow to put on the picture. Men just do things differently as you can see in the photo.

We also watched a short (5 min) video of pictures of mom. It was a super casual and informal party. Probably what mom would have wanted if she had been able to plan her own party. She hates the spotlight. LOVE you Mom. Happy Birthday.

Valentine's Day Heart

2011-01-30T19:19:00.000-08:00

Here is a fun, cute craft project Holly and I did together one afternoon! I love how simple it is, yet it sums up the whole meaning of Valentine's Day - LOVE!

A little bite of hEaVeN

2011-01-26T09:08:00.000-08:00

YUM! Thank you Reece's for putting this recipe on your bag. My weakness: chocolate and peanut butter. Reece's peanut butter cups have perfected this combination. Yes, they are my guilty pleasures. Make a batch up for yourself and you be the judge. Oh, yummy goodness.Peanut Butter Temptations

from Reece's bag, makes approximately 40

1/2 cup butter

1/2 cup sugar

1/2 cup brown sugar

1/2 cup peanut butter

1 egg

1/2 tsp vanilla

1 1/2 cup flour

3/4 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp salt

1 11oz package of Reece's Miniature Peanut Butter Cups, unwrapped

Beat together the butter, sugar and brown sugar. Then add peanut butter, egg and vanilla. Mix well. Finally, add the flour, baking soda and salt. You will need a mini muffin tin, spray with cooking spray. Shape dough into 1" balls and place into muffin tin. Bake for 10-12 minutes (watch your oven, I baked mine for less time and about 25 degrees lower but I have a hot oven) at 375 degrees. Remove and immediately press peanut butter cup into each cookie. Cool and Serve. I actually liked them the second day after being in an airtight container, they were softer. AGAIN: YUM!

Baby Gift

2011-01-19T10:02:00.000-08:00

I am sure you have seen the cute decor phrase: KEEP CALM AND CARRY ON! It has been everywhere in the blogging/craft world. I have loved all the variations of it too, my favorite: KEEP CALM AND EAT A CUPCAKE. That was until I came across this one: KEEP CALM AND BABY ON. How stinking cute is this?! Seriously, I fell in love. I don't have a new baby's room for this cutie to adorn, but my friend does. If you know her, don't tell her about it, I haven't given it to her (will this weekend). This one is customized for her little baby boy. The best part about this lovely printable is the work is done for you and all you have to do it print it out! You choose your own frame and paper and it is done. Head on over to The Scrap Shoppe, see her cute version and cute baby shower ideas and then give her some love for this gem! She has some seriously cute cupcake washcloths, LOVE IT.

Updo you can DO!

2011-01-17T06:36:00.000-08:00

This is a really great hair style if your hair is really dirty, you don't have time to wash it but still want to look cute! First you are going to take a fish tail comb and back comb the crown of your hair to the point it is standing up like my models!

Then kind of shake it and smooth it out with your fingers, I don't like to comb it because it will take some of the cushion out that you worked so hard to put in!

Now pull it back in a half pony. Then take a bit from the bottom of the pony tail and wrap it around the top of the pony tail and secure with a bobby pin at the bottom.

Pull the rest of your hair into a side pony and do the same thing, wrapping an under piece of hair around the pony tail and securing with a bobby pin. Curl the ends of your side pony and your ready go!

Another idea is to make your side pony into a "messy bun"

My name is Holly and I like fun, easy hairstyles

"Owl Always Love You"

2011-01-14T20:55:00.000-08:00

And I Will!

I am not sure why, but I love Valentine's Day! Maybe it's the colors, the fun, the candy, the sweetness. I don't know?! All I do know, is I LOVE IT!

You gotta LOVE the cricut (or other cutting machine!), paper, vinyl, wood and Mod Podge.

You can't go wrong in life with all of the above!

Isn't this little owl the cutest?

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!

Just a side note - I HATE my camera and I am saving for a new one! It take the worst pictures in the world and one day, ONE DAY, I will have a better one! But for now, this is the best I can do!

Chic Vintage Door Decor

2011-01-12T18:27:00.000-08:00

I must tell you I AM IN LOVE WITH THIS DOOR!

I wish it was mine!

Want the story? A few months ago my sweet friend Kesha called asking me to help her with a project! Of course I was excited and couldn't wait to get started! Kesha told me what she wanted to use the door for and we got busy turning an old ragged door into this CHIC VINTAGE WALL DECOR!

Kesha found this AMAZING door tucked away in her Father-In-Laws garage. I believe it was LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT!

Can you just imagine the possibilities when you look at this beauty?

We began by sanding it down and applying two coats of a light tan paint. For the life of me, I can't remember what it was called.

Then - DON'T BE SCARED! We hit the door with a hammer giving it even MORE character!

Pulled out the orbital sander and sanded the heck out of it AGAIN!

Put on a nice thick coat of glaze and gently wiped it off, making sure to leave plenty of glaze in all the nooks and ridges. (Glaze is on my top 10 favorite things in life - Just thought you would want to know!)

Kesha knew she wanted to use this to display photos (she is an amazing photographer!) but she didn't want them to be permanent. I suggested she use plexiglass to showcase her photos. This way, she could update her photos or change them out whenever she wanted! After drilling four small holes (one in each corner) of the plexiglass and each section of the door, use small screws with the decorative bolt to secure to the door.

If you want to check out Kesha's Photography, click HERE!

Two of the sections are magnet boards! Apply scrapbook paper with Mod Podge to the metal and you have a beautiful coordinating magnet board!

Isn't She Beautiful! I love this Chic Vintage Door Decor!

So question for YOU! If this was YOUR door, what would you do with it?

Winter Quilt

2011-01-12T09:01:00.000-08:00

I have a thing for snowmen. It is true. I love them. However, my love for sewing isn't as strong. I found this material over seven years ago. I started the quilt, got tired of working on it and put it away for a time......for seven years! I decided to finally finish it. It isn't my best handy work, but I like how it turned out. The best part (besides how it looks) is the sense of accomplishment. There is pride in a finished quilt. So, Christmas is over and out comes my snowman quilt to warm us through the chilly winter months.

Holy Names

2011-01-10T08:00:00.000-08:00

I am really excited to show you this project! I couldn't post it sooner because I made it for my in laws Christmas gift. I didn't want them to accidentaly see it. They came down this past week for a visit so I was able to give them their gift. I saw this BEAUTIFUL idea on I Show Off Vinyl Designs and new this would make a perfect gift for my in laws. Especially since they arrived home just a few months ago from a 2 year service mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Australia.

I created the image in Photoshop because I wanted to do something more than vinyl. There are so many fun options that Photoshop offers! I kept the same design/set up that Becky from I Show Off did but made a few minor changes and addtions. I hope they enjoy it!

If anyone is interested in printing out your own picture, please let me know! I have the JPEG saved and will be more than happy to share! All you will need to do is save it to your computer and send it to Costco to have it printed in the size of your choice. I say Costco because they are so quick and inexpensive!

Home Movie Theatre

2011-01-06T07:54:00.000-08:00

Holly needed a super cute decor idea for her parents home theatre. A sign for POPCORN! She wanted something different and unique. One that no other theatre would have.

Here is what we came up with!

We found a an old cupboard door that needed a new home! We spent a few minutes sanding down the old stuff, making it nice and smooth so it was ready to paint! Decided to use Krylon Antique White spray paint. Why? Because spray paint is AWESOME! Spray the first coat and allow to dry. Apply a second coat and let it dry. Once paint is completely dry, glaze over the top using Ralph Lauren Technique Glaze tinted Old Violin Brown. Cut out vinyl and apply! Simple as that.

Now, I can't wait for her parents house to be finished so it can be displayed for all to see! Oh and maybe if I am super duper nice, Wendy will let me hang out in the theatre and watch Holly play Wii Just Dance 2!

Valentine's Day Cupcake Printable!

2011-01-03T14:02:00.000-08:00

I know, I know! The big LOVE day is several weeks away but I can't help but get excited to make some LOVE cupcakes, LOVE cards, LOVE everything! Why? Because I LOVE Valentine's Day! This day means so much more to me than spending money on a special someone, or going out on date night. I love this day because I get to express my LOVE to all those people I LOVE!

PEOPLE I LOVE

Husband

Children

Mom & Dad

Sisters

Brothers

Aunts

Uncles

Cousins

Great Friends

Friends

Neighbors

Church Members

Doctors

Police Officers

Military Men &Women
My list could get really long so I will stop now.

Valentine's Day is not just about lavish gifts, chocolates and diamonds. It's about showing and expressing how much you LOVE and appreciate those around you. A simple smile, hug or embrace can give someone more LOVE than buying them gifts. So this LOVE day, make sure you express LOVE to those you LOVE!

Here's a free printable to top those cute cupcakes. You know I will be coming up with some great LOVE cupcake. Maybe next week I will have a cupcake creation recipe for you? Maybe just because I am in the LOVE mood!

Print off these super cute LOVE cupcake toppers and put on those delicious cupcakes you want to make for all those people you LOVE! Remember, I would LOVE to see your creations if you use these printables!

Have you ever been to Summertime Designs? Summer Driggs has amazing digital scrapbook kits. This is her "So This Is Love" kit and I LOVE it! I put together these printables from her kit, Thanks Summer!!

Perfect Corn Chowder

2010-12-31T08:13:00.000-08:00

Nothing beats a hot bowl of soup on a cold snowy day!

2 medium unpeeled red potatoes

1 cup cubed cooked ham

1/2 cup diced red bell pepper

1/2 cup coarsely chopped celery

1 teaspoon butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1 can 14 oz. chicken broth

1 can 12 oz. fat-free evaporated milk

1 can 15 oz. creamed corn

2 tablespoons sliced chives

salt and ground pepper to taste

cooked crumbled bacon

Cut potatoes and ham into cubes and set aside. Dice bell pepper. Coarsely chop celery. Heat butter over medium heat. Add bell pepper and celery; cook and stir 3-4 min. or until crisp-tender. Stir in flour; heat until bubbly. Gradually add broth, evaporated milk and corn, whisking until blended.

Add potatoes; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cook, uncovered for 10 min or until potatoes are tender. Stir in ham; heat through. Remove from heat; stir in chives and season with salt and pepper. Top with bacon.

This delicious recipe is from pampered chef.

I love this soup.

Quick Ideas: New Year's Finger Foods

2010-12-30T15:42:00.000-08:00

New Years to my family means games. So in between rounds, hands, game changes, winning and fun conversations, we make a dash to the kitchen and get a couple of mouthfuls of yummy food and then head back to the games. Here are some awesome ideas for the perfect food for your holiday: Appetizers, Finger Food, Munchies, etc, whatever you want to call them!

Family Fun has these great dips on their site. The snowman is simply whimsical and the present is elegant to me. Can’t go wrong with cream cheese!

Favorite Go To Recipe: Raspberry Jalapeño Jelly served over cream cheese with crackers. Elegant. Impressive. Flavorful. Simple. Did I mention how tasty this was?

(Forgot to take my own picture, pic courtesy of Cooking with Krista)

And my new favorite hot dip: MOMMY CRACK

(aka Cream Cheese, Sausage, and Rotel Dip) from Stephanie at A Year of Slow Cooking.

My photo just doesn't do it justice. It is seriously that good. You have to add this to your new years menu.

Oh, and my friends Sara and Kate (I speak as if I really know them! Well, I know them pretty well through their blog!) over at Our Best Bites have an even more fantastic list of foods. Go check them out! I recommend the Baked Creamy Chicken Taquitos; made them last night and my family raved and raved about them.

Here's to a Wonderful New Year's Eve party, ringing in 2011!

New Year's Eve Dessert Stand Tutorial!

2010-12-27T11:00:00.000-08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Can you believe 2011 will be here in just a few short days? I find it hard to comprehend 2010 is almost over, the year went so quick and what an amazing year it was! In a way I am sad to see it go, but also very excited to experience 2011 and the wonders it holds!

Okay, so on to the FUN stuff! Who is having a New Year's Eve party? Or are you going to one? Well, if you are attending or hosting a party what better way to display your goodies but on this festive 3 tiered dessert stand?!

Knock the socks off the party goers and create this amazing centerpiece...here's how!

Start out with three wood circles. I cut mine 9", 12", and 15" circles and used 1/2" MDF board. If you don't have the tools to cut out wood circles, you can always use the cake board forms. They have them in all sizes at the craft stores and even Walmart.

I found these glass vases at Michael's for $1.00 each! They stand about 5" high, creating the perfect space between tiers!

Paint your circles in the color of your choice.

I wanted the circles to have a little "bling" so I pulled out some silver glitter glue and painted the tops.

Spread around the glitter glue and let sit to dry completely!

When the glitter glue is dry it is time to adhere the glass vase to each tier. If you have wood circles, you will need to use a clear silicone adhesive. (Found at your local hardware store.) If you are using the cake forms, your hot glue gun will work just fine!

I decided to the "bottom" of the vase to the "top" of each circle. Leaving the "top" of the vase open. This way the vase can be filled with whatever items/colors you need. It will be easily interchangeable and also much easier to store. Each tier is separate and just stacked on top of the other. So, if you just need one tier for a cake, flip it over and you have got multi functional dessert stands!

Next I pulled out shimmery glitter paper and cut it into stars and the numbers 2011. I inked the edges to distress them a little then hot glued them onto curled paper, black pipe cleaner and red fuzzy wired ribbon. Did you know you could curl paper to look like curled ribbon? I am sure plenty of you do, but if you don't....wanna know how? SO easy! Cut a strip(s) of paper about 1/4 inch thick. Wrap it around a pencil or dowel and voila! You have curly paper. A.M.A.Z.I.N.G.

Stick your little explosion of 2011 into your top tiered vase and you have a centerpiece to

RING IN THE NEW YEAR!

Happy New Year! May 2011 bring you all great happiness and much joy!

Oh yes! We are going to be doing a guest post over at Tatertots and Jello on December 30th. We will be sharing a delicious cupcake recipe for your New Year's Eve party! Make sure to stop by and check us out!

Reindeer Cupcakes

2010-12-21T14:59:00.000-08:00

We had a really fun time making these Reindeer cupcakes from Disney's Family Fun magazine. We decided they should all be Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeers. We had a few substitutions as you can see from our photo and Family Fun's example. We couldn't find the Nilla Wafers Minis to save our life. So we used Ritz bite sized sandwich crackers and took out the filling, which still worked okay.

Merry Christmas!

Enjoy all the Holiday moments with your family, it is what really matters.

Ruffle Christmas Tree

2010-12-09T15:41:00.000-08:00

I won't tell you where I was or what I was doing when I thought of this idea.....

But isn't she cute? I am loving how it turned out and think making a "bigger" one will be fantastic!

Want to make one? Here's what you need:

A roll of ribbon - a wide ribbon, like 2 inch.

Frame

Cardstock

Hot glue gun

Glue sticks

Sewing machine or needle and thread

Scrap piece of paper to make a star or a wood star

There you have it! I have a little challenge for you. I know this ruffle ribbon tree can look SO much cuter, so I challenge you to give it a try. Mine is very plain and simple, I know there is so much more that can be done with this. Let your imagination go wile and send me a picture of your finished product! I will post them in a new post for all to see. Hope you're enjoying the holidays!

Christmas Cupcakes

2010-12-04T15:49:00.000-08:00

I was invited to be a vendor at the Children's Justice Center Holiday Boutique. I made some delicious Christmas cupcakes that are to die for! The cupcakes were a hit and we raised a decent amount of money for the CJC. I love helping, especially for a cause such as this. Here's a little peek of some of the most HEAVENLY cupcakes!

Chocolate Cherry Cordial

I must say, this is DIVINE! I am pretty proud of this creation!

Chocolate Peppermint with White Chocolate Candy Cane Ganache....wow, that's a mouthful!

Cupcakes don't get much better than this folks!

Make sure to order your Christmas Cupcakes! I know you all want to take fabulous cupcakes to your parties this year. I have a few other yummy holiday flavors too.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

"Fossil" Inspired Scarf

2010-11-21T14:06:00.000-08:00

My cute mama came home from California last week with the BEST Fossil Scarf I have ever seen! I fell in love and wanted one myself. However, I about tipped over when she told me how much she paid for it....$32.00! Now, for some, that's not bad - because it is freakin' CUTE! But, I knew I could make mine for FREE and spend the $32.00 on groceries for my stinkin' cute kiddos.

(Sorry about the pixel-eee picture)

Here is the expensive Fossil scarf. Do you love it? I do!

Now, for all the fabulous people who know how to knit or crochet, you can whip this out in a heartbeat. But for me, who doesn't know how, I had to improvise!

The color is kind of drab, but with a cute jacket/coat it will do just fine!

Here is an ancient sweater I have had hanging around...just waiting for new life.

I used a seam ripper to remove the sleeves.

After removing both the sleeves, I cut them to be the length I wanted my scarf.

I turned the sleeves inside out and put one sleeve inside the other. Once I run a stitch around it, I can pull it right side out and I will be perfect!

Just slide the arm of your sewing machine into the sleeve and stitch around the opening.

Turn it right side out and this is what you will have!

I wrapped it around my neck and marked where I wanted it and then tacked it with some thread. I snipped a button off the old sweater hand sewing it onto my scarf! You can make a button hole if you wanted, but mine is stretchy enough I can slip it over my head.

There you have it!

Here's my little Charlee Boo modeling it! If I looked as HOT as the Fossil model, I would model it for you. But, let's face it. I'm not. Especially when it's 9:00 at night, I have taken my contacts out and have my taped up glasses on with my pj's...yeah not model material!

I know you all have an old sweater just laying around, so pull it out and make yourself something warm for the winter! Now that I know how easy this is, I may have to find a thrift store sweater with some color to add a little more pizazz to my new accessory!

Jungle Cupcakes

2010-11-13T18:07:00.000-08:00

I had the privilege of making cupcakes for a Jungle Crew Baby Shower! I'm loving these cute fondant jungle animals! They turned out super cute!

The Lion, of course.

The Giraffe turned out to be my favorite.

The expectant moms choice of cupcakes were Cookies & Cream and Snickerdoodle!

Oh my goodness Tara, why didn't I think of making these fondant monkeys for Brooks baby shower? They would have matched perfectly!!!

Baby Boy Monkey Shower

2010-11-10T19:36:00.000-08:00

I threw my good friend a shower and we have fun with the brown and green monkey theme. Good food and friends makes any get together great. And I love those printable parties from etsy. They make it so easy to throw a great bash!

Did you see the onesie? So cute!!

This side of the room had the yummy soups and hot dips. Again, YUM!

The mother to be requested these Oreo cupcakes. Hope they were as good as she remembered them to be.

Recycled baby food jars turned party favor! Thanks Craft~o~Maniac for the great idea.

Diaper Cake

This item cracked me up. Seriously! I had never heard of these until this shower. For baby boys, a pee pee teepee? Too cute!!

Aaahhhh. The people made the shower, but it didn't hurt that we had good food and cute decorations!

Thankful Pennant

2010-11-10T19:19:00.001-08:00

I saw a version of this on Parents.com They had made their pennant with grains stalks and different kinds of fall foliage. I liked the idea, but wanted to do it with beans so that my five year old could count and sort them, a little math homework of sorts. Fun to do with him and easy peasy.

Cupcakes & Ice Cream Party

2010-11-05T14:55:00.000-07:00

Cupcakes & Ice Cream Birthday Party!

My little girl turned six and here are some fun pictures from her party.

The Entry to "The Sweet Shoppe"

The Sweet Shoppe Wreath.... It's A Party!

The Cupcake & Ice Cream Table

Filled with everything a little girl would need to dress her icecream.

Fancy Ice Cream Bowls & Sundae Cups

Aaahhh... The Cupcakes. Tropical Punch of course!

The Birthday Girl - Charlee

Just A Little Thank You

Charlee and I made all the little guests Pink and Black aprons as a thank you for coming to her party!

Shrunken Heads

2010-10-26T11:03:00.000-07:00

I hope you've seen these before, because they are a perfect addition to any Halloween party or home decor.

Start by getting a bowl of water, adding the juice from two lemon wedges and 2 tsp of salt to the water. Then peel your apples.

The fun part is carving your apples. You can make any kind of face, the possibilities are endless. We used whole cloves for the eyes and they worked great!

Then place your apple in the water for 10 minutes. Halloween Alliance recommends 10 minutes for dry areas and an hour for moist humid areas. According to them, "the salt will draw moisture from the apple once it’s out of the water, making the apple dry more quickly and helping to keep it from becoming moldy, and the lemon will help keep the color of the shrunken head light and uniform."

Go to their website and read more about it first before you begin. There are some more hints. Plan for two weeks to dry, but in a pinch you can use a food dehydrator or the oven at 200 degrees for 3-6 hours until dry and shriveled. Our were good for a party we had a week later and they continued to get better.

We actually skewered them on dowels and stuck them in a cookie rack standing up to dry. Place in an attractive arrangement for display and you are good to go.

Here is a sneak peek at how lovely, uhmmm, I mean gruesome and spooky they looked! This was really fun to do with the kids and they loved watching them dry and checked on their progress daily.

CUPCAKES! by Julie

2010-10-17T08:02:00.000-07:00

I have been a craft slacker these past couple of weeks. But, I have a very good reason! For the last while I have been debating whether or not to open up my own cupcake business. I finally did it! Cupcakes! by Julie is currently in the process. I am SO EXCITED and ready for this. I am going to try and keep lots of fun creative crafty posts and pictures of delicious gourmet cupcakes!!

Here are a few of my creations!

What do you think? I have many more selections to choose from. I can do any event from family get togethers to weddings! Even if you just want some cupcakes, give me a call!!!

I am in the middle of putting my blog together, HERE is the link. I am also on facebook.

If you live in Southern Utah, make sure to come to the Ancestor Square Farmer's Market. Every Saturday through October from 8-12. I am selling my cupcakes there!

Countdown to Candy Winner!

2010-10-13T06:52:00.000-07:00

CONGRATULATIONS to TORI!!

Winner of the Countdown to Candy!

Congrats Tori! Hope you enjoy your Halloween blocks! Email us at craescreations@hotmail.com with your address!

Candy Corn Bark

2010-10-07T12:03:00.000-07:00

Found a yummy looking recipe for Candy Corn Bark over at Your Homebased Mom. Just had to try it. We liked it a lot. Salty, sweet and of course, all things Halloween. Go ahead a make some for your little Gouls and Witches.

We took Halloween Oreos broken up, pretzel pieces, and a few candy corns and placed them in a pan covered with wax paper.

Melted some almond bark and wilton candy melts and poured it over the top and used a spatula to spread it around. I then put a few Halloween sprinkles and some more candy corn on the top. Allowed it to harden in the fridge and then broke it up into pieces and enjoy it! So yummy!

Share with your friends. Makes great neighborhood gifts! Did I mention how "spook"tacularly easy it was? Ya, super easy.

Countdown to Candy Giveaway

2010-10-06T09:03:00.000-07:00

Alright, ready for another giveaway?! This is so much fun. We know that this should have been our first giveaway so that you can use it the whole month long to countdown to H-day, you know the fabulous night of absolute bliss, Halloween. Best laid plans aside, here is the countdown anyway. You will be able to use it for half the month and many many more years of fun to come. Come on and enter our 3rd giveaway if you dare!!

There are many many versions of countdown blocks in the blog world, but this is a mini version, can fit in the palm of your hand. (I have one in my kids room in

additon to the regular sized one in the family room)

Here's How To Enter To Win!!1. Leave a comment on this post for 1st entry.
2. Follow this blog for a 2nd entry. If you are already a follower,

leave a comment stating you are!
3. Post this giveaway on your blog for a 3rd entry!

Deadline to enter the giveaway is ~~Tuesday, October 12th at Midnight~~.

TIME'S UP!
Please see new post for announcement of winner!

Winner will chosen at random (using Random.Org) and announced on Wednesday, October 13th.

Here's wishing you some GOULISHLY GOOD LUCK! Remember, we will post another Halloween Giveaway next week after we

announce the WINNER for the Countdown to Candy giveaway!

Witch Boot Giveaway Winner!

2010-10-06T07:12:00.000-07:00

CONGRATULATIONS ADRIAN!

said "So cute, I'd love to win!"

Adrian, I will be contacting you to get your information!

ENJOY and HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

Remember, sometime today we will be posting another Halloween Giveaway!

Come back and enter for a chance to win!

Follower's Giveaway!

2010-10-05T07:51:00.000-07:00

Do you remember a while back when I told you all I was going to give away a super cute hat when we reached 50 followers? Well that day has arrived!!!

CONGRATULATIONS EMILIEGH!

You are the winner of our Follower's Giveaway!

I will be contacting you for your information and getting your homemade Jack & Jill hat to you!

Candy Corn Wreath Tutorial

2010-10-04T20:55:00.000-07:00

Candy Corn is to Halloween like Santa is to Christmas! You have to experience candy corn or Halloween just isn't Halloween! Not only is candy corn yummy to eat, it's colors are some of my most favorite! I wanted to do something with candy corns and a Candy Corn Wreath is what I got!

I didn't want to have to spend any money either, so I rummaged around in my craft closet and wood supplies. After some searching, I found all of this!

I cut out the candy corns on masonite board using a band saw. If you don't have the wood or tools to cut wood, you can use the foamy paper stuff...any color will do because we are going to cover it with CUTE candy cornish paper! I made a candy corn shape template, traced it onto my different paper color choices and cut them out. I distressed the edges with an orange colored ink.

Now, glue them onto the wood. I just used a glue stick but Mod Podge works great too.

Once all candy corns are completed, pull out the hot glue gun! Now, glue all those bad boys to a wreath. I am sure a foam wreath will work well. Like I said, I just used what I had in my closet!

I found a piece of fall garland that was the perfect length. Seriously, how lucky can one get? I made a circle out of the garland and placed the wreath on top, pulling the stems through to make it look full.

To fill in the gaps, cut six or more long pieces of coordinating fabric. Wrap them around the garland and wreath. Not only does this fill in the gaps, but it hides the wire on the wreath. It was still looking kind of blah in the center and this cream paper with black flowers gave it just the kick it needed. I cut a circle and glued it to the back of the wreath.

Just like that....that's what the back looks like.

Now, put up your candy corn wreath and enjoy the Spirit of Halloween!

Spooky Halloween Invite

2010-10-04T09:00:00.000-07:00

I really wanted to make this invitation from Martha for my upcoming Halloween party. However, when I kept pricing things out, it was very much over my budget, especially the rubber mold stuff.

So here is my knock off version. The coffin boxes I got on clearance last year for super cheap. I got the skeleton hands from Roberts in a ten pack and filled with some Spanish moss and tied a black ribbon around one finger.

Ooooo, I really liked how they turned out. Get going, get those parties planned and set a date. You know you want to party Halloween style.

(pictured on my newly completed table-runner. Julie posted hers long ago.

I am just getting mine done!)

STG 26.2

2010-10-02T14:34:00.000-07:00

Ok, TIME OUT from all of the cute Halloween posts for a huge and most well deserved shout out to Julie for just running, TODAY, the St. George Marathon! Seriously! Not only does our favorite gal make such cute things and is so very crafty, she is well......freaking amazing because she runs and just completed a MARATHON. Do you really know how far that is? 26.2 miles. Wow, I am simply impressed. I am just great with being in the cheering section at the finish line. She will kill me for putting this on here, but I think you deserve to see how amazing she truly is.

Julie and her cute family. If you look close, she made her little boy's shirt. In the middle of all this, she still crafts! It says, : "my mom runs like a MOTHER!"

CONGRATS JULIE, such an amazing accomplishment!

Witch Boot Giveaway!

2010-09-29T19:34:00.000-07:00

Here it is! Our next giveaway! I am super excited about this one because I am in LOVE with this witch boot. I hope you LOVE it too, enough to enter our 2nd giveaway for Halloween!

Here's How To Enter To Win!!

1. Leave a comment on this post for 1st entry.

2. Follow this blog for a 2nd entry. If you are already a follower, leave a comment stating you are!

3. Post this giveaway on your blog for a 3rd entry!

Deadline to enter the giveaway is ~~Tuesday, October 5th at Midnight.~~

TIME'S UP!

*** See New Post For Winner ***

Winner will chosen at random (using Random.Org) and announced on Wednesday, October 6th.

GOOD LUCK! Remember, we will post another Halloween Giveaway next week after we announce the WINNER for the Witch Boot!

Halloween Give Away Winner!

2010-09-28T06:42:00.000-07:00

CONGRATULATIONS HOLLY WORTHINGTON!!!

Winner of Trick or Treat Halloween Give Away!

Holly, I will be contacting you soon!

Don't forget, we will post another Halloween Giveaway sometime today! Make sure you all come back and enter for your chance to win!!

Halloween Subway Art

2010-09-26T18:28:00.000-07:00

Subway Art is a fun and trendy way to spice up your Halloween decor! I found making this VERY fun! I loved finding spooky, ghostly and creepy fonts! I had the most fun was arranging it all, like a puzzle, making it fit and look fabulous!

Halloween Subway Art!

Want to make one of your own? Here's the how to:

SUPPLIES:

One board whatever size you prefer. Mine is 12x18 MDF board. You can use glass too!

Vinyl in preferred colors and transfer tape

Paint

Glaze

Paint Brush

DIRECTIONS:

1. I painted my board white, then glazed over it using a gray/black tint.

2. With black paint, paint on spider webs in desired areas.

3. Cut out Halloween words in different sizes, fonts, and colors. I cut out a witch hat, spider, pumpkin, black cat and spooky tree to fill in the little spaces.

4. Arrange on the board to achieve the look you are going for.

5. Apply your vinyl.

There you have it! Pretty simple and really fun! If you don't have a "cutting" machine to cut out vinyl, you can always paint it on free hand!

Happy Haunting!!

Fall Pumpkins

2010-09-23T09:46:00.000-07:00

Here are a set of wood pumpkins that were inspired by my friend Kellie. Are they not ADORABLE?

Thanks Kellie for the inspiration! And thanks to my sweet friend Anne, we had lots of fun crafting and making pumpkins together!

Halloween Give Away!

2010-09-18T16:33:00.000-07:00

A little tid bit of info behind this post...I ran A LOT of miles today in my training for the marathon that is in TWO weeks. My hip flexors are killing me and I was hobbling around like a geriatric lady who just had a hip replacement. Because I couldn't move to well or pretty much at all, I knew a craft would make me feel a lot better. And, it did! I have had this project in my head for a few days and today was the day, and it is your LUCKY DAY too!

Trick or Treat Plaque

Give Away!

RULES:

SEVERAL WAYS TO WIN

1. Leave a comment on this post for your 1st entry!

2. Follow this blog and leave a comment stating you are a follower for a 2nd entry!

3. Post about the giveaway on your blog and leave a comment telling you posted this for a 3rd entry!

You must enter a separate comment for each entry and make sure to leave me your email or blog address so I can get in touch with you if you are the WINNER!!

Give Away will close on ~~Monday, Sept. 27th at midnight.~~

TIME'S UP!

Winner will be randomly selected and posted on Tuesday, Sept 28th!

Used Random Integer from Random.Org

CONGRATULATIONS!

The Winner is..... #4

HOLLY WORTHINGTON!!

GOOD LUCK!

Want some more GIVE AWAY GOOD NEWS? Each Tuesday (from now through October) after we have named the winner, we will post ANOTHER Halloween Give Away!

CTR Baptism Towel

2010-09-18T15:07:00.000-07:00

So I hate to post this in the middle of Julie's Fall and Halloween posts, it seems so out of place. But I think it is still cute and worthy of blogging about. My friend's daughter just got baptized and I wanted to make this towel that Made with Love and Glue has the tutorial for. It was not too hard of a project, I mean I was able to make so you probably can too! Wonder under is my new favorite tool. Sewing around the curves was the toughest part, but overall, it looks pretty good I must say! You can change up the fabrics and make boy versions also. Happy crafting!

Halloween Costumes

2010-09-14T20:07:00.000-07:00

By now you should all be catching on... I LOVE HALLOWEEN! I start asking my kids what they are going to be for Halloween MONTHS in advance. I begin the planning process, brainstorming and finalize how I am going to make their costumes for the year. Here are a few of my favorites I have made. Now, please note: These costumes are my own concoction. I have NO patterns, I just go with it. They are not perfect, but they are fabulous!

Beautiful Tutu Witch

I did a halter style tutu with black and purple tulle. I found the witch hat a few years back at Old Navy so it worked perfect with this costume. Add a little purple and black flowers to the hat and it was ready to go. Notice the PERFECT PURPLE boots? Are they not the cutest things ever? WALMART! Seriously this costume was adorable and very inexpensive to make! Matter of fact, she wants to be this AGAIN this year. I do think I am going to change it up a bit, but what can I say? This costume is a keeper!

Mummified Mummy

My sweet little Coop has never been one who loves to dress up. He hates things on his face or head, masks, paint, makeup, hats, etc. Even from a little baby he hated it. When he said he wanted to me a mummy, I had to figure out something to where it wouldn't cover his face. Thus, the nice head wrap instead...kinda cheesy, but it worked ok. Anyway, this costume was a little time consuming, but well worth it. The pic doesn't do a very good job at showing it, but all the edges are burned to old and mummified! I bought a pair of sweatpants and sweatshirt at Walmart - you know the cheap garanimals brand? I found an old off white sheet in my linen closet, ripped it into longs strips and went to town. At first I was hand sewing the strips on then decided the HOT GLUE GUN is much faster! I wrapped the strips around and glued them into place. Afterwards, I pulled out the lighter and burned all the edges. I only ALMOST burned the house down twice. I suggest you have a bucket of water handy...if you're a little like me. This costume was a hit. He looked like a real mummy and not some tacky kid wrapped in toilet paper!

Cutest Little Candy Corn

Okay, a little background first on this costume. I have two sisters and all three of us were pregnant at the same time. Matter of fact, our due dates were all within six weeks of each other and we were all having boys! How fun is that? Well, pretty dang fun! My sisters and I are very close, we all like to do things together and we wanted to have all the boys dressed a like and take all the kids trick or treating together. Why? Because that is what girls do! Cute fun things...together!

Anyway, back to the details. I bought all three boys a long sleeve white onesie. I measured each of them around the chest and their length. I made the shape of a candy corn out of paper using their measurements, cut out the fleece and sewed it onto the onesie - making a little sleeper. I measured their heads and made a little white fleece beanie hat which of course NONE of them would wear. They were definitely the CUTEST three boys strolling the streets on Halloween night!

I hope everyone is getting VERY excited for Halloween this year. I know I am!

Oh yes, I'm linked up to the Fall Frenzy over at Craftaholics Anonymous. Check it out. There are TONS of fun fall ideas.

Halloween Table Runner

2010-09-08T21:19:00.000-07:00

Halloween is on it's way! In honor of the BEST holiday of the year, I made a Halloween table runner for the kitchen!

I am very excited with how it turned out! Isn't it SPOOKY?! Okay, I guess it's not spooky, but it is pretty dang cute! Now, I have to admit a thing or two... I have NEVER quilted anything on my sewing machine before. I have hand stitched but the sewing machine quilting I never dared attempt. Until now. And, it was NOT as bad as I thought it would be. Fusible fleece/batting is pretty much one of the coolest things ever.

I used the Moda Halloween Night Charm pack that I purchased from here. For me, spending a little more money to have them pre cut is worth it. I can never seem to get all my squares perfectly square.

I hope everyone out there is feeling the beauty of Fall and anxiously awaiting Halloween! What are you going to dress up as this year? Or what are you going to dress your kiddos up as?