It's Written on the Wall

{Gotta See} Fabulous Desserts For Easter Lunch or Dinner

2012-02-22T23:51:00.001-07:00

For your Easter lunch or dinner you're going to want a FABULOUS dessert. I've heard it said that people may not remember what you served them for dinner but they are definitely going to remember the dessert! Make a wonderful memory then. Below are some desserts that we hope you might try to make and enjoy.

Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake in a cupcake liner is the perfect size after a big meal....but will taste so delicious! SOURCE & RECIPE

Wouldn't these Bite-Size Banana Cream Pies be so pretty for your Easter Brunch, lunch or dinner? Or anytime really. Easier than making a pie and just the right size for a party. SOURCE & RECIPE

Fresh Fruit Tart with Vanilla Pastry Cream. How about something delicious featuring fruit! The presentation on this tart is so pretty. Yeah, you've got this! SOURCE & RECIPE

Strawberry Cream Cheese Tart. Beautiful strawberries will definitely be available at Easter time and isn't this a beautiful tart! SOURCE & RECIPE

Strawberry Pie anyone? You can't go wrong here. Be sure to pile on the whip cream! SOURCE & RECIPE
Or try this Martha Stewart Icebox Strawberry Pie RECIPE

Twinkie Pie? Here's one the kids might like. Okay, let's see what it involves.... SOURCE & RECIPE

Chocolate Chip Cherry Cheesecake. This looks amazing! Who wouldn't love this one? SOURCE &RECIPE

Cold and Creamy Banana Pudding--Who doesn't love it! SOURCE & RECIPE

Love the way the used strawberries in such a creative way atop this strawberry and cream cake-Beautiful. (no source)

Now for a lighter dessert. You can get your kids/family to eat fruit if you make it fun and appealing. This yogurt dip is a great addition to a fruit plate. Get the Recipe here SOURCE

{Free Printable} Cute Easter tags for your Peeps Chicks and Bunnies

2012-02-21T16:08:00.000-07:00

I love Easter printables! It's a fun and inexpensive way to jazz up your Easter Baskets. We've made up 2 with a Easter bunny and one with a Easter chick. When you fold it in half you get a bunny or a chick on each side of the tag. Each tag measures 6.75" wide x 4.5" tall. Print on 8.5x11 white cardstock paper-2 tags per sheet. Cut out the tags and fold in half. You can put five chicks in a bag and four bunnies in a bag. Then just staple or glue the tag on the bag.

Sample of tag #1

Sample of tag #2

Sample of tag #3

If you think it's too early to think about Easter, just come back and get these tags when you are ready

Since the package says "To one of my "Favorite Peeps" you could give then to friends and neighbors

Even the Bunny Peeps Look fun in this pkg

You can use a snack size bag or a sandwich bag. If you use a sandwich bag it is easier to work it.

You can get Peeps in green, pink, purple and yellow.

We'd love for you to become a friend of our FACEBOOK page and/or a follower of this blog before downloading the link. Click HERE to get your copy of our Easter Peeps Tags

{Freebies} Easter Bunny Cupcake Toppers + Grow Your Own Easter Grass

2012-02-20T15:59:00.000-07:00

Just in time for Easter....Bunny Cupcake Toppers for your homemade, (store bought cupcakes). They dress up a cupcake nicely. Print on a 8.5x11 white cardstock paper. Cut out with scissors or a paper cutter. You can use a circle cutter as I did here or a scallop cutter would be nice too. Impress the family and your friends. Fun for school treats too. (Can be used as gift tags or hanging from your Easter tree)

We'd love for you to become a friend of our Facebook page and/or this blog before downing the link.

Only for personal use. Print as many sheets as you need.

Click HERE to download our Easter Cupcake Toppers

Want to grow your own Easter grass? It's super simple and inexpensive. Just need a few supplies and you'll have sprouts growing within a few days. Perfect for any Easter project....grow a rectangular piece of grass and use as a centerpiece/runner on table for eggs, cookies, bunnies, even cupcakes would be cute. The shape you grow your grass in is up to you! Be Creative. SOURCE

Below are some samples of uses for Easter grass.

SOURCE

Tips and Tricks-Bisquick Mix Recipe, Altering Jeans, Chipotle Guacamole Plus....

2012-02-19T21:58:00.000-07:00

There's so many fun things out there on the Internet and we love to find fun things to share. Some of these ideas will have you saying...Why didn't I think of that! Some of these ideas will interest you and some your kids. Enjoy what we've found below. Hope you find something you'd like to try!

With the weather warming up (or will be soon) give your kids something to do outside. Make this Homemade Sidewalk Chalk, you only need a few ingredients. Feed the Picasso in your kids! SOURCE

What a great idea--Walk down or slide down. It's in a real home, not a movie set or anything like that. Read more about it here SOURCE

Put a frame around your big screen television. Now it looks like art and that it belongs there
(sorry no source sited)

So cute and so easy to do. Get all the details HERE. Fun art that only looks expensive! (use an old dictionary)

Brilliant idea to seal up this bag plus....you're recycling!

No Source listed

Here's a cool experiment for your child and the science Fair Science Experiment: Elephant Toothpaste SOURCE

This Garlic Cheesy bread looks amazing! Over 44,000 visits says she must have something here! That's white cheddar cheese inbetwee the slices of bread. Check it out SOURCE

A label that you can change as often as you change what's inside the jar. Chalkboard paint is the best! SOURCE

Keep marshmallows inside the package of brown sugar to keep it from getting hard! SOURCE

Here's a excellent crock pot dinner-Crock Pot Chicken for Tacos. Three ingredients. Throw them into the crock pot, cook on high for 4 to6 hours or low for 6 to 8 hours. Put it together in the morning and forget it. Then when it's time for dinner--It's magically ready! SOURCE

Get this CopyCat recipe for Chipotle Guacamole. Don't you love copycat recipes? SOURCE

Recipe for Homemade Bisquick mix. Use it just as you would Bisquick but save a TON OF money by making it yourself etc. SOURCE If you need some Bisquick recipes click HERE

The easy way to alter jeans (shorter) They'll look like they've never been altered SOURCE

I love the look of this ceiling decoration for parties/celebrations. What did they use? Something super cheap and easy. To find out click HERE

Isn't this a cute craft room for kids-Everything on the small scale yet everything they need to be creative and busy! The cups on the rod with the crayons and markers in are from IKEA. The rod below it is also from IKEA-in the kitchen showroom SOURCE

Need a wastebasket in your office or craft room but don't want a plain white plastic one? Well then, buy a inexpensive plastic one like this and embellish and personalize it! See the TUTORIAL HERE

Talk about designing and organizing your drawers! Its called Drawer Decor. You've got to see this! There's a Give-a-way going on right now. Cut the mat to fit your drawer and then add the dividers! SOURCE

Spring & Easter Decor-Fun Crafts for the Kids plus....

2012-02-19T21:35:00.000-07:00

Spring is right around the corner. Some of you may already be experiencing it....So we've found some pretty spring decor that could also be used for Easter. There's some fun crafts that you and the kids could do together! Some of you may think that I post holiday ideas too early....Well, my answer to that is this: If you think ahead then you aren't feeling rushed when the holiday does arrive. You have plenty of time to gather your thoughts (and crafts) so you can do what you want and still enjoy yourself. Plus....if you know ahead of time what you need you can probably get your supplies on sale. I know Hobby Lobby always gets their holiday decor and supplies in store way in advance of the upcoming holiday and usually puts them on sale when they do. Enjoy!

Peeps in with the flowers? Don't they look cute SOURCE

This carrot is totally edible! You'll never guess how they made it. It's filled with egg salad. People will be amazed at your creative and baking skills! SOURCE

Easter Egg lollipops- Just make a sugar cookie easter egg and insert a lollipop stick into it before baking, You can get this "real" easter grass at health food stores. Isn't that a cute centerpiece? SOURCE

Simple Easter craft for the kids to help with. Fill up a basket of Easter Chicks

(of course fill them with treats) SOURCE

Wouldn't these cute Easter bunnies, made out of socks be cute for your child's Easter basket? Much less expensive than the Easter plushes you can buy and very cute! SOURCE

How about a jelly bean topiary? Also inexpensive to make and very cute TUTORIAL

Dollar Tree from Target-See how cute it turned out! SOURCE

I love the look of blossoms on limbs like the photos above and they look great inside your home. This projects lets you have this look in your home whenever you want and is something you could bring out every spring. Simple to do. Click HERE to get the info

This will make your Easter table festive! Napkins, silverware and pipe cleaners! SOURCE

How to create a Daffodil Place setting (tutorial) They've put Easter candy inside but you could put your decorated Easter Eggs or cupcakes too. SOURCE

Find these beautiful Easter Egg place card holders at Williams Sonoma. Handcrafted in Italy. They come in the cute egg crate as shown in the photo. Click HERE

I love the idea of egg shell votives. See exactly how it's done HERE

These cute carrots are easy to make and filled with Easter treats. Wouldn't they be cute in an Easter basket? Get all the details HERE

Your Easter veggie tray never looked so good. Make this cute bunny out of bread and use it to hold your yummy dip. So cute! SOURCE

{Perfect Baby Shower Gift} The Cutest Motorcycle Diaper Cake You've Ever seen

2012-02-15T23:39:00.000-07:00

I was so excited when I saw this post for the CUTEST Baby Shower Gift ever! Not only is it the perfect gift but the tutorial is included and boy does she make it look easy! She promises that this is the greatest baby gift ever. One thing is for sure.....Your gift and you will be remembered! Take a look at the ones she has created below. Then click on the link at the bottom to be taken to her blog to get the tutorial--Lots of photos makes it very easy to follow. As you can see the diapers are the tires, receiving blankets are the handlebars etc. Cute!

Don't you agree that this is the cutest "Diaper Cake" you've ever seen? You can put any kind of plush on top of the motorcycle-What plush, character or doll is the favorite of the mommy-to-be? Or what's the theme of the Nursery? Personalize it just for mommy and baby. Head on over to Sweet April's to see how you can make one of these too! She's so creative, I'm sure you'll want to be a friend of her facebook page too! Here's the LINK

Unique Easter Egg Crafts & Yummy Treats the Kids Can Help With

2012-02-14T20:10:00.000-07:00

Let's jazz up the Easter egg. Yes, it is fun to dye them all kinds of fun colors but these Easter crafts takes it to another level. Be creative and embellish these designs even further with your fabulous imagination!

Easter Egg Sheep SOURCE

Easter Egg Pig SOURCE

Easter Egg Bumblebee SOURCE

Easter Egg BlueBird SOURCE

Easter Egg Dove SOURCE

Easter Egg Cow SOURCE

Easter Egg Mom SOURCE

Easter Egg Dad SOURCE

Easter Egg Dye-ving Dudes SOURCE

Easter Egg Baby Megg SOURCE

Easter Egg Mouse SOURCE
Easter Egg SuperEgg-Man Egg SOURCE

What a easy way to dye Easter eggs-No more cups tipping over! SOURCE

Now what to put all those cute Easter eggs in? This cute bag! It's from Chasing Fireflies. Click HERE to read the tutorial and make it for under $5

Now what's for dessert? These Easter treats are cute and easy and fun to make! Get the kids in on the fun!

Cookies and Cream SOURCE

Easter Basket Cake SOURCE

Easter Basket Cupcakes SOURCE

Easter Bunny Cupcakes SOURCE

Carrot Patch Cookies SOURCE

Humming Bird Nests SOURCE

Spring Chicken Pops SOURCE
Easter Egg Pops SOURCE

Peeps Wreath SOURCE

Peeps Topiary SOURCE

Make up some delicious Bunny Bait. Something for the Easter bunny and you. Popcorn and other yummy Treats all in one recipe.(Use the pastel M&M's) SOURCE & RECIPE

{Tips and Tricks} Spring/Easter Flowers, Need a Tissue, Apple Pie in an Apple? Publish your Own Cookbook

2012-02-14T08:22:00.001-07:00

Some of our favorite tips and ideas are in this post. Found some fun ideas for shredding chicken, Cafe Rio Recipe, Spring and Easter decor, apple pie baked in an apple, a to-die-for patio and swimming pool, how to publish your own hardback cookbook, Spongebob and more! Which one is your favorite?

Cute ideas for a Spring or Easter flower arrangements. #1) All you need are some plastic eggs in your favorite color and a glass jar and another smaller glass! #2)Then just add fresh cut lemons around the inside of the pitcher for another pretty arrangement. Perfect! SOURCE

Isn't this Daffodil Cake Pop adorable! See and read the tutorial HERE

Have a cold? Need a Tissue? Rubber band a full tissue box and an empty tissue box together. Now you have some place to put the used tissues. If your picky about your decor....just tie a ribbon around the box instead of a rubber band. SOURCE

Fold over the top of your rubber gloves when doing the dishes....They will catch the water and stop it from running down your arm. SOURCE

Did you know you can shred chicken in your KitchenAid? It must be cooked and warm. Find out more SOURCE

Isn't this the most amazing patio, with an equally amazing flagstone fireplace. You could spend time out here in warm or cold weather. What's the TIP? Just keep this in the back of your mind for when you're building your next home! SOURCE

Just had to add in this photo of a spectacular swimming pool. Don't you love it? (no source)

This is the Spongebob Suite at the Nick Hotel in Florida. Your Spongebob fans would love this one!

I've seen dispensers like this that hold only one drink...now that I've seen this one that holds 3, I've got to have it. Such a great idea. You can find it HERE

I love the "apple pie" apples from Rocky Mountain Chocolates so I thought this recipe might be worth trying. Here's the recipe so you can try it too SOURCE

What a yummy idea? An apple pie baked in an apple! Hollow out an apple, add your filling and a lattice crust and you've got an apple pie in an apple! Get all the details HERE

For all of you out there who are Cafe Rio fans here is the recipe for the Cafe Rio Chicken. Yea! The only ingredient you might not have in house right now is the Zesty Italian dressing...The rest you'll probably have SOURCE

Do you have a lot of favorite recipes you'd like to put all together? The company called BLURB will do that just for you. Compile a cookbook like the one above. This cookbook is from the blog "Clover Lane" I love the cover. Add in pictures of the food or of family and friends-the sky's the limit with this project! Click HERE to go to the blog and read more and Click HERE to go to the BLURB web site

Do you have a small space in between our washer and drawer? Let's not waste space....get you this set of wicker drawers (plastic) to hide the things you use in the Laundry Room. A place for everything and everything in it's place! SOURCE

Happy Valentine's Day

2012-02-13T22:32:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to wish you all Happy Valentine's Day and thank you for visiting our blog. We're up to over 67,000 view a month! Thanks to all of you who shared our blog with your friends and for coming back to see what we've been up to! Happy Valentine's Day.....

www.facebook.com/itswrittenonthewall

www.itswrittenonthewall.etsy.com

Doodle courtesy of www.homegrownhospitality.typepad.com

{Freebie} St. Patrick Day Sweet Treats & Party Printables!

2012-02-13T12:45:00.000-07:00

There are so many cute treats you can prepare for St. Patrick Day! They all look yummy and simple. Put the recipes in your recipe book and make these treats other times of the years by just changing the colors. Smart!

Chocolate Pretzels with sprinkles SOURCE

Chocolate covered Marshmallows with caramel SOURCE

Green Velvet Cake Pops SOURCE

Green Velvet Whoopie Pies SOURCE

Green Velvet Cupcake SOURCE

Chocolate covered Oreos SOURCE

Little Leprechaun Hat SOURCE

Shamrock Rice Krispies SOURCE

Shamrock Pretzel SOURCE

Chocolate Mint Brownies SOURCE

Download these free Cupcake Toppers from TomKat

Get this cute St. Patrick's Day Banner over at TomKat

Get these free St. Patrick's Day Party Printables. The photos above show what fun things you can do with the printables and below is the actual sheet. There are a lot of pieces available in this party pack.

Head on over to Love The Day to get the link and see larger, close-up photos of the party. What's included:

Party Circles, Mini Candy bar Wrapper, Happy St. Patty’s Day Yard Signs, Name Tags, Water Bottle Wrappers, Blank Tent Cards, Shamrock Straw Tags, Coordinating Paper, Cupcake Wrappers, Come In Sign, Flags, Photo Booth Props

Download these free Candy Bar wrappers. So cute! SOURCE

These party circles are a companion to the candy bar wraps above. Get the free download HERE

Not to go too far away from the "green" food theme....but these mini chocolate chip turtle cookies look amazing and would be a special treat SOURCE

Heart-Shaped Four Cheese Ravioli AND 37 Special Treats for Valentine's Day Dinner. Yes!

2012-02-12T19:14:00.001-07:00

Have you decided what you are going to make for that special Valentine's Day Dinner? You might want to make the heart shaped four cheese ravioli shown below and the sugar cookies for dessert.

Yum, Yum, Yum! Four cheese ravioli is the best. Make it in a heart shape and have it for your Valentine's Day dinner! Head on over to Annie's Eats to find the recipe and tutorial SOURCE

Then for dessert how about some pink sugar cookies? Yes, the recipe is from Annie's Eats. Nothing's better than a soft sugar cookie with sweet creamy frosting! SOURCE

Here are some more delicious looking desserts for Valentine's Day. Click on this link to find all these sweet treat recipes. Some of these recipes, if not all would be good to put in your recipe book. They are a special treat that could be made anytime of the year!

{Freebie} Gotta see this Huge Valentine's Day Party Pack Printables

2012-02-10T18:43:00.000-07:00

Hot off the press, as they say, are these darling Valentine Party Printables from Peonies and Poppyseeds. So many things in this free download that you're sure to have all your bases covered! Very cute too. There are three links to download..... You'll want all three.

Part 1 Includes:

drink/straw flags
small pillow box designs – 4 designs (2 per printed page)
favor box – 2 designs
4 blank tent labels
fry/treat box - 5 designs
5 sheets blank foldable cards
5 inch party circles in various designs

Part 2 Includes:

2 inch party circles
miniature candy bar wrappers – 6 designs
large candy bar wrappers – 4 designs
2 sheets blank name cards/labels
water bottle labels – 5 designs
juice box labels – 5 designs
cupcake wrappers – 3 designs

Part 3 Includes:

8x10 Centerpiece and

“Be Mine” banner with heart spacers

So now that you've seen them you're going to want to download them right away! Head on over to Peonies and Poppyseeds to get the link.

Happy Valentine's Day!

Cupcake High Heels, Ironing Board in a Drawer, DIY Produce Bags, A Chandelier, 20 Smoothie Recipes Plus....

2012-02-09T22:20:00.000-07:00

Here's to things that make life easier, maybe even yummier (with regards to the 20 smoothie recipes below) I'm all for finding things that make me smile and say, "I've got to have that" Enjoy!

20 Smoothie Recipes-Yum! If you freeze fruit when it is in season you can enjoy fresh fruit smoothies year round. SOURCE

I love the lacy cupcake wraps and here is a very easy way to do it. Doilies are very cheap and come in different colors-Available at craft stores and dollar stores. Do it yourself and save $$. There are more details about the wraps in the comments below the post at Cake Central. Look for comments by AlamoSweets-Hint: She used a 10" doily. (I don't want to give away her brilliant idea here) SOURCE Here's a free template for a cupcake wrap, just download and use as a pattern. SOURCE

Recycle t-shirts into a produce/grocery bag. There's a easy-to-follow tutorial-Won't you feel great when you stop using the plastic and paper bags at the grocery store! SOURCE

An old shutter as a hanger for pots of flowers--I really like this idea! (no source)

This ironing board slides back into the counter and has a false drawer front----You'd never know there was an ironing board behind it? So Cool! SOURCE

Do you have one of these? It makes taking the leaf out of a strawberry so easy and you end up with more strawberry. You can purchase at Williams Sonoma, Amazon.com etc. SOURCE

What a easy way to remove the corn from the cob! It keeps it all in one container. SOURCE

Customize a drawer just for spatulas and large utensils. Get the wood to customize your drawers at Home Depot, Lowes or craft stores. Cut to fit drawer and use gorilla glue or E6000 glue to secure. SOURCE

I love how they took this chandelier and added beads, buttons and other embellishments and made it whimsical and cute! See more photos including close-ups of this cute chandelier SOURCE

Get all the info on making this Rain Collection Barrel. SOURCE There's even a VIDEO from Lowes Go Green!

One of the great uses for WD-40 is that you can use it to remove crayon marks off the walls, even wall paper. (photo from Real Simple Magazine) Want to know what else WD-40 is good for---So many great uses SOURCE

Isn't this refrigerator simply amazing. When the doors are closed it will just look like a beautiful piece of furniture....so much space! SOURCE

These cupcakes area amazing! They come out of a book titled
Cupcakes, Cookies and Pie, Oh My! I'll give you a hint....They involve a cupcake, graham cracker, rolled wafer and a gum stick. This new book sounds like it is one you've got to have. Click on the link at Amazon.com and you can take a look at some of the creations within the book. Looks like a keeper!

You'll need a purse to go along with the high heels shown above! They're also from Cupcakes, Cookies and Pies, oh my!

Here's a shot of the cover of this book. Their creations area AMAZING!
Cupcakes, Cookies and Pie, Oh My! You can also become a friend of their facebook.

{Valentine's Day} M&M's. KitKats & Chocolate Cake, Plus a Candy Tree

2012-02-09T08:21:00.000-07:00

More Sweets for the Sweetest day of the Year-Valentine's Day. Some people are so brilliant with dessert! Which one would your sweetheart prefer?

Ahhhhhh, M&M's, KitKats and chocolate cake! It would be a shame to cut into it! From the Post: "Valentine Candy cake is Darn Good Chocolate Cake filled and frosted with chocolate buttercream. Roses are gumpaste. Kitkats, M&M's and purchased ribbon. Happy Valentines Day" SOURCE

What do you think of this 3 tiered KitKat cake? Beautiful! (couldn't find the source)

A candy bar topiary? How Sweet! Pin the candy onto a foam piece, add a dowel and place in a bucket. Put something heavy in the bottom of the bucket to hold it up. SOURCE

Think this is a cupcake? Think again! It's a edible cupcake box. Both the top and the bottom are edible and filled with sweet treats. You've got to see the tutorial-So Cute! SOURCE

Chocolate Dipped Strawberry Heart Marshmallows. Fun edible centerpiece SOURCE

What a great idea for a smores and so much easier than roasting the marshmallow over a flame/fire. Another cute idea for a Valentine's Day treat (or any other day of the year) See how it's done SOURCE

Tips and Tricks-Brilliant Recipes, Pantry Organization, Family Photo Ideas and more!

2012-02-08T15:09:00.000-07:00

We've found some brilliant ideas. I just love little bits of info that make life easier (tips and tricks) They make you ask....Why didn't I think of that? I hope we've got some things below that you've never thought of but would like to incorporate into your life and home. Enjoy!

How about turning a closet into a pantry? It's a very simple idea. Just put in the movable shelving . Add the shoe organizer on the door for a lot more storage of snacks and small items. The plastic is clear so you will be able to find something at a moment's notice and think about all the space you've created on the shelves. You'll want to head on over to "Real Simple" to see more details about this great way to create a pantry where there was none.

New uses for old items--How about a toothbrush to clean the silk off of the corn stalks? I like it! (use a new toothbrush, of course) SOURCE

Shower hooks work great for hanging your purses in the closet. They're sturdy and wide enough to hold one or two straps. SOURCE

Dollar Store luminaries-Easy and inexpensive to make! SOURCE & TUTORIAL

What's better than a breakfast casserole? One that you mix up the night before, place in the crock pot, turn it on, go to bed and when you wake up you've got a yummy breakfast already made! That's my kind of cooking! SOURCE

What a great idea for a family photo. Mom, Dad and babies hand. How precious. SOURCE

Such a cute style and such a great picture tutorial, Yeah, you've got this! SOURCE

These butterfly snacks make lunchtime or snack time fun! Just put two different snacks (or one) in a ziplock bag and add a decorated clip. (Could use your scrapbook paper to decorate too) SOURCE

YUM! Here's a 3 cheese macaroni and cheese recipe that you bake in a muffin tin. It only takes about 10 minutes to bake which means you can toss them in the oven after your guests have arrived and everyone is assured of a nice hot mac and cheese. I love the small serving size. SOURCE

7 Smoothies that are said to aid in weight loss.....Peanut butter and banana, Mocha, watermelon and four more. Get the recipe for all seven smoothies SOURCE

I love this look. Here's how you do it: Put decals or stickers on a framed canvas and then paint it-spray or brush. Then take off the stickers and put white lights behind it. Very cool! Make it as small or as larger as you want...just depends on the size framed canvas you can find. (couldn't see a source)

Overnight Blueberry French Toast Not only does this look delicious but you prepare it the night before and refrigerate it until the next morning when you just pop it into the oven to bake. So easy! A delicious breakfast with little effort. SOURCE

Yes, that's right....you can get this free 75 page e-book from the web site Cultures for Health. They sell everything you would need to start making your own yogurt! Make the flavors you want, when you want. You know exactly what goes into your yogurt. Use for dips, smoothies, recipes and just plain eating. Head on over to this page to get your free e-book (there's a link) and you're on your way. SOURCE

Tired of looking for your tape in your workshop or in your craft room? Here's something made up out of desperation! Love the idea of a hacksaw blade on the front for cutting and that it is mounted on the wall. Brilliant! SOURCE and TUTORIAL

23 Designer Cakes-You'll love what you see!

2012-02-07T22:11:00.001-07:00

I really wish I had the talent that these people have when it comes to designing and making cakes. I wanted to share some of the ones I thought were exceptional and amazing. Do you agree?

Love the Cheshire Cat! SOURCE

Both of these cakes can be found HERE

Do they give you any inspiration?

Excellent choice for a baseball themed party, especially if your a Yankees fan SOURCE

Do you know someone who's a fan? SOURCE

Candyland Cake (no source )

Curious George Cake

(if this is your design or you know who made it please let me know)

Who doesn't like Mr. and Mrs. Potato Head? That's the theme of this party-See more fun photos SOURCE

Perfect for a Dr. Seuss party SOURCE

An under the sea birthday party cake! SOURCE

Are you a Tom and Jerry Fan? SOURCE

Does your party have a Pirate theme? SOURCE

Having a game night? Here's the perfect cake SOURCE

A paris themed party is a very good idea (no source)

Absolutely darling! How how many hours do you think this one took?
(If you know who made this cake please let me know)

Could be for a baby shower could be for a birthday. So cute! SOURCE

Know someone who's a bowling fan? SOURCE

This one's definitely for the boys SOURCE

Nemo Birthday party anyone? SOURCE

Love the colors on this rocket! SOURCE

Handy Manny is so adorable on this cake SOURCE

So much detail in this Rugrat Cake...Makes you wonder if it really is a cake? SOURCE

Super Heros here we come! SOURCE

A Bouffant Hair Style, a Felt Scarf and a DIY Fringe Scarf

2012-02-07T08:17:00.000-07:00

While looking on the internet I found three fun ideas that I wanted to share today. Two things you Wear and one is your Hair! Enjoy!

What a beautiful felt flower scarf. This post received a tremendous amount of looks and so she decided she better let everyone know how she made it. Now you get to see it too TUTORIAL

Make it yourself....out of an old t-shirt. Isn't it pretty, and very easy to make, plus you will be recycling a t-shirt. TUTORIAL

Love the ruffles on this T-shirt. See the tutorial SOURCE

How to style a bouffant and other cute hair styles....I've always wondered how they did this and now we both know. There are two more hair styles in this blog that you'll want to see. TUTORIAL

Amazing Desserts including Reeses Peanut Butter Banana Bread!

2012-02-06T23:14:00.000-07:00

Found some yummy recipes that I just had to share with you all. All of them include a recipe so let's get baking!

Yes I knew when I found a recipe for Reese's Peanut Butter Banana Bread that I wanted to share with all. Banana bread, all by itself it yummy but throw in some Reese's and you've got something special. SOURCE and RECIPE

No, this isn't the kind of banana that you want for the Reese's Peanut Butter Banana Bread, but isn't he cute? SOURCE

Then I found a "flaming cupcake" Yes that is a flame atop the strawberry. Now that would be an EXCELLENT Valentine's Dessert......Would certainly impress your sweetheart! Want to know how to do it? SOURCE and RECIPE

Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars---All I can say is YUM! SOURCe and RECIPE

And this is for all you lovers of owls! Isn't this a darling cake....Makes you want to plan a party with an own theme, doesn't it? SOURCE

You know you eat with your eyes first....and my eyes are loving this Chocolate Chip Cookie and Ice Cream Cake. SOURCE and RECIPE

Thought I'd leave you with something that is good for you! Lemon water! Read about all the benefits of a drink a day. Some say some say it helps with the craving for soda......read on SOURCE

More Tips and Tricks to Make your Life Easier

2012-02-06T17:53:00.000-07:00

We've found some things that might just make your life a little easier....any way, knowing these things just might do it. Check out everything below and be sure to click through onto the sources. Enjoy!

Yes, I do have scratches on my plates. They don't look very nice so I stopped using them. Now with this easy tip I can bring them out again. Bar Keeper's Friend is great on stainless steel too-It really works SOURCE

Such a great tip for cleaning the "very hard to clean" grates on top of your oven. Thank you! SOURCE

How many times do you find miscellaneous things around the house that belong to different people? These little baskets at the foot of the steps is a great idea. As they go up into their room they take the basket and put the things away (hopefully) SOURCE

A simple magazine rack to hold the lids for your pots and pans. Excellent! See more clever things to use for organizing SOURCE

MARSHMALLOWS - Yes, it’s true. There are more uses for marshmallows than s’mores or Rice Krispie Treats. Though both are quite delicious, did you know…

Stash a few marshmallows in a box of brown sugar or the sugar bowl to prevent the sugar from hardening or clumping.
Make ice cream cones less messy by sticking a few marshmallows in the bottom of the cone to prevent the ice cream from leaking out.
Eat three or four marshmallows to sooth a sore throat. Greg has actually used this a few times but I’ve always thought it to be quite odd. Come to find out, there’s a scientific reason as to why it works. Apparently, the gelatin is very helpful when it comes to relieving irritation and soothing pain in your throat. And I’m sure it’s a lot more tasty than nasty throat lozenges.

Go to this web site to see what other uses there are for Coffee Filters, Bounce fabric softener sheets , clear fingernail polish and toothpaste.....Lots of fun ideas! SOURCE

How to clean your washing machine? Turns out it isn't that difficult. See the complete tutorial SOURCE

At this blog you'll be able to see tons of home remedy tips and tricks....Really, a lot of great ideas. Like...

Take your bananas apart when you get home from the store. If you leave them connected at the stem, they ripen faster.

Reheat Pizza Heat up leftover pizza in a nonstick skillet on top of the stove, set heat to med-low and heat till warm. This keeps the crust crispy. No soggy micro pizza. I saw this on the cooking channel and it really works.

Before you pour sticky substances into a measuring cup, fill with hot water when cooking. Dump out the hot water, but don't dry cup. Next, add your ingredient (peanut butter, for example) and watch how easily it comes right out.

So if you want to learn some other really great ways to make your life easier click HERE

Great way to store all your pencils, pencils and markers, and up out of the way of the little ones. drill 2 holes in the cups and use zip ties through the peg board to keep them in place SOURCE

Why didn't I think of this? Store cars on the magnetic knife holders from IKEA-they are very inexpensive. SOURCE

Use an oil drip pan (from Walmart) to make a fun magnetic board for the kids! SOURCE

What a simple idea and good way to add an extra shelf and a cubby. Idea came from www.designspongeonline.com

This is a very inexpensive way to store your ribbon....It's an Oatmeal can. SOURCE

If you're handy with tools this project will organize your ribbons in a very nice way SOURCE

Make your own (homemade) Marshmallow Fluff (In chocolate too) Get the recipe HERE

Homemade Laundry Detergent - click HERE to see the instructions and ingredients

Make your own dishwasher detergent. A few simple ingredients---The good news? You only use a tablespoon of detergent for each load. Get the "recipe" for your homemade dishwasher detergent HERE

Make your own dog treats. With just 6 ingredients, that you may already have on hand, you could have a good treat for your dog. SOURCE

Salad in a jar recipe! Amazing idea for work! As long as the dressing and lettuce do not touch in the jar, they can be made 1 week in advance while staying fresh with the lid screwed tight. Running late for work in the morning and no time to make lunch? Just grab a jar out of the refrigerator and you're set! Get the recipe for dressing and more info HERE

Have Wendy Turn Your Child's Artwork into a Soft Toy-See How It's Done

2012-02-05T23:24:00.002-07:00

Making Soft Toys for Kids

This company can turn your child's artwork into a reality. No matter what they draw. Really! How exciting. One day they can say...yeah I drew that, (or I designed that) Take a look at some of their work below and then head on over to their blog to see more and possibly get something made for your child.

Do you love the self portrait of the owner of Child's Own Studio, Wendy Tsao? So impressive, and so is her work. Just contact her to get something made up for your child. It's such a fabulous idea!

Here's a little info about this unique shop: (taken from the blog)

Child’s Own Studio started with a simple idea: to make a recognizable comfort toy for a 4 year-old boy based on his drawing. It was an idea that launched my home-based craft business. Since then, I’ve custom made a few hundred personal softies, each one as unique as the child who drew it.

Child’s Own Studio celebrates children’s art and their imagination with every handcrafted one-of-a-kind soft toy.

The child’s drawing, a wonderful expression of childhood, is the starting point of the collaborative project. Details and color choices are reproduced as closely as possible so that the stuffed toy that arrives in the mail is immediately recognizable to the child who designed it. It’s a fun, rewarding process, and kids love seeing their drawings come alive.

Now you'll want to head on over to "Child's Own Studio" Wouldn't you like to surprise your child with their artwork made up into a soft toy? I'm sure they would love it!

Could one of these Yummy Treats be your Valentine's Day Dessert!

2012-02-03T23:00:00.000-07:00

More Valentine's Day Desserts.....Make them with the kids or for the kids or your sweetheart. One of these will be the perfect dessert for Valentine's Day...promise!

From Bakerella come these pretty little cherry pies. Make them in a muffin pan for a mini treat! Get the tutorial over at "Not Martha" Yeah, You've Got This!

Love the look of these fondant topped cupcakes-Choose your favorite colors for the top and the hearts. CakeSpy

Chocolate soup? Yes! "If I could describe where chocolate soup lives, it's somewhere between rich hot chocolate-ville and chocolate pudding city." says Sprinkle Bakes

Sprinkles and hearts and marshmallows-Find out how easy these two are to make. You'll be surprised. The Decorated Cookie

Heart filled cupcakes....How is it done? Made with Love

2 Ingredient Strawberry Fudge....Yes just two ingredients. Cookies and Cups

and then there's Red Velvet Whoopie Pies! Who can resist a whoopie pie shaped in a heart? Annie's Eats

Pink Meringue Kiss cookies. A perfect light treat for after dinner. Bakers Royal

Conversation Heart Sugar Cookies....Aren't they so cute! Get the recipe over at Food for Thought

How about breakfast in bed for your sweetheart? And what could be better than a hot, delicious cinnamon roll? This recipe for Cinnabon cinnamon rolls is a knock-off that, Lauren says, is very close to the original. Looks delicious! Lauren's Latest

If you'd like to read our other posts about Valentine's Day Click Here

Two Different Valentine's Day Parties plus Sweet Treats

2012-02-01T23:38:00.000-07:00

The sweet treats below are all something you could make for your Valentine party. Be sure to click on the links to the blogs to see more photos including how they styled the treat tables. With a little imagination you can make your presentation just as beautiful as theirs. Yeah, you've got this!

Mini parfaits

Cupcakes w/fondant hearts

Cookie sticks dipped in white chocolate

Rice Krispies with sprinkles

Hershey Kisses

White chocolate covered Milano cookies

plus much more over at Shindig Parties

Envelope backdrop (taped to the wall)

Cake w/heart bunting

Cupcake toppers

Love letter sugar cookies with edible paper stamp

Heart shaped cookies on a stick

Mini raspberry trifles

Mini cheesecake bites

Coconut & pineapple milkshake

Raspberry and coconut mini cupcake

Chocolate hearts

all can be found at "Just Call Me Martha"

Such a Beautiful Cake! SOURCE

Oh, and just in case you're up to viewing another cute Valentine's Day party...here's another link

Pinkalicious or Ballerina Birthday Party-Get ideas for both here

2012-02-01T16:33:00.001-07:00

We found some really great ideas for a little girl's birthday party, whether it is a

Pinkalicious party

or a ballerina party.....you'll find ideas for party decorations, cupcake toppers, invitations, cookies plus a lot more fun things.

All these cute cupcake toppers can be found at this Etsy Shop--They are adorable! Below are more ideas for different ways you can use them.

Put them on a card, a crown or on a dowel for a wand as shown below

These cupcake toppers include a tutu, ballet shoes, a crown and flowers. So nice! See more HERE

These cookies are so pretty, love the color of pink that they chose Sweetopia

Here's a cute birthday invitation. With a card like this your party will definitely be remembered SOURCE

This tulle pom pom garland would make a great backdrop for the birthday cake and sweets table. Photo tutorial is included SOURCE

Tissue paper pom poms are easy to make and would be perfect for a Ballet/Princess Birthday Party. Make it into a garland or hang individually from the ceiling or a rod. SOURCE

Decorating your chairs add just the right finishing touch. Tulle and Ballet shoes SOURCE

Here's a ballerina cupcake that looks like a DIY project. So cute. Fondant for the top and frosting for the tutu. SOURCE

This taffy center piece will make quite an impression. It also looks good alternating different shades of pink and/or white taffy. Just be sure the writing on the wrapping doesn't show. SOURCE

Such a sweet Ribbon Wand with a marshmallow on top. You'll want to check out this darling party, loved their ideas SOURCE

Cookies and Milk. These cute little glasses are the perfect size for the children. SOURCE

Love this Chandelier...and it's edible! SOURCE

{Freebie}Super Bowl Party Printables-And Some Yummy Treats

2012-01-30T21:00:00.001-07:00

Check out these fun football themed party printables that would be perfect for your Super Bowl Party. If you agree then scroll down to get the link for the download.

All these free party printables can be found on the Hostess with the Mostess blog You'll also find a recipe for Yummy Soft Pretzels and Team Spirit Popcorn and more fun ideas for your party

Be sure to check out these treats too

SOURCE

{Freebie}Cute Monster Valentine Party Printables-Free Download

2012-01-30T09:03:00.000-07:00

Love this free printable party kit from Ellinee. It's a Valentine Monster party, but only the good monsters showed up! Just download and print and you've got a fun Valentine's Day Party for school or home! Check out everything that's included below.

Get all these cute party printables over at Ellinee's Blog. Great for boys and girls!

Don't forget to get your Valentine Lunchbox Notes

2012-01-27T09:43:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to remind all everyone: Don't forget to get our Valentine Lunchbox Note collection for your kids and grandkids. It's not too early to start putting these in their lunchboxes. You can also use them as tags for gifts or give away as a Valentine Card. Send one to Grandma and Grandpa or give to neighbors and friends. Some have told me they leave them under their pillow during the night for a sweet surprise when they wake up. For the older kids you could slip them inside one of their text books or in their backpack. I don't think you're ever too old to be told you are loved! One friend said "Forget the kids, I give these to my husband!"

Click here to go to the post where you can see all 36 notes.

I received this darling message from one of my friends on facebook and just wanted to share it with you here.

"My twin daughters came home with report cards yesterday. In one of their report card, their principal personal wrote, "those lunchbox notes are adorable. I love them." signed by her. Sarah gave me biggest smile when I read the note. ♥ Thank you for the wonderful idea. I love them. You're awesome for making us (the mommies) feel good about something we do for the kids even it is small thing. ♥"

Just need to be a friend of our Facebook page to get the link. Leave us a message that you would like the Valentine Lunchbox Notes and your email address and we'll get them sent out to you.

{Gotta See}Adorable Lunches for the Kids-So Much Fun!

2012-01-26T12:08:00.000-07:00

Ready for some amazing inspiration for your kids lunches? These brilliant fun ideas came from a blog called Hawai`i's Bento Box Cookbook, Bentos and More for Kids She is a genius when it comes to making lunch fun. (There are still lots more on the blog) With great ideas like this you're sure to come up with something special for the kid's lunches. Now you're probably wondering where you can buy these cute containers? Here are many sources for these cute Bento Boxes.

Fish Sammies on a whole wheat bun plus yummy strawberries SOURCE

Shredded carrots make up this lion's mane. SOURCE

Such a cute bear and container. The kids will love this one. SOURCE

Do you know someone who loves Pandas? SOURCE

Adorable Hello Kitty sandwich (once again,use your cookie cutter) SOURCE

It's Candace from Phineas and Ferb. Cheese anyone? To see a cute Phineas sandwich see my other posts about school lunch-link below) SOURCE

Ferb peanut and butter sandwiches. Love the parsley hair! SOURCE

Isn't this a cute Phineas sandwich? SOURCE

Turkey sandwich on whole wheat with a "Cheese monkey" SOURCE

Save this cute bunny sandwich for Easter time. SOURCE

Or you could make up this bunny for Easter or everyday SOURCE

Check out these "pumpkin twins" So adorable..Love the googly eyes SOURCE

Frankenstein can make an appearance anytime of the year SOURCE

Strawberry and cream cheese bagel owl. Adorable! SOURCE

As you look at these sandwiches you will see that a lot of the shapes are cut out with cookie cutters, and that makes it easy. If you feel like this is too much work in the morning, you could make them up the night before. I would love to be sitting next to your child when they open up their lunchbox! Smiles all around......

We've got 8 more posts for Fun Kids Lunches....Do you want to take a look? Click HERE

{DIY} Holder for Charging Cell Phone-Gotta Make This!

2012-01-24T19:49:00.001-07:00

What a clever idea and so inexpensive to do. This holder for your cell phone allows it to be up out of the way when charging, instead hanging from a dangling cord, sitting on the floor or even the counter. And you can make it yourself. Head on over to "Make it and Love It" to get the complete tutorial including photos for every step of the way. Make some for family and friends, because once you make one you'll have it mastered!

Click on this LINK to go to their blog and get all the details, Yeah, you've got this!

Mind Blowing Tip for Frosting & Icing Bags-Gotta See!

2012-01-24T09:45:00.001-07:00

This is the most amazing tip for filling icing bags for frosting cupcakes, cookies or cakes. If you don't like washing/cleaning out your icing bags then you'll want to view this short video. It will make life a lot easier (with regards to your baking, that is)

Now, I know you're dying to view this short video! This means you can buy the disposable bags and reuse them more than once, possibly more than that. It's going to save you a lot of money and effort! Click HERE for the VIDEO Thanks to Karen at karensCookies.net for sharing this information.

Make Valentine Special with Rhodes Bread Recipes-Gotta See

2012-01-24T08:48:00.001-07:00

What's easier than buying a bag of Rhodes bread and making something special for your Valentine's Day Dinner? You'll find complete recipes for all these yummy Valentine themed recipes and even a video for the Valentine Rolls on their site. See all the great ideas below.

Aren't these adorable and soooo very easy! There's even a video tutorial. Click HERE for the Video

How sweet these heart-shaped cinnamon rolls from Rhodes--The frozen dough that you just thaw and create! I've got some in the freezer and I'm definitely trying this SOURCE

Cherry Heart Tart-Yummy! Find the recipe HERE

These look easy to make and if you're using Rhodes bread dough it's even easier! Find the recipe HERE

Who doesn't like pizza and this one looks extra special in the heart shape. Find the recipe HERE

Sweetheart Ring-Coconut, almonds, pineapple and yummy icing! Find the recipe HERE

Twisted Valentine Bread-Gotta try this one! Find the recipe HERE

Valentine Braided Heart-Yummy! Find the recipe HERE

Here's another fun example for Pizza on Valentines! When making your own pizza (can use Rhodes dough for the crust too) cut out the pepperoni in a heart shapes-So fun! Find the recipe HERE

Make Your Own SCRATCH-OFF Valentine's Day Card-No Kidding!

2012-01-23T10:21:00.000-07:00

I've never seen a tutorial for making a "Scratch-Off" card! Have you? Well here is your tutorial. Now, it's not a scented one but I don't know why you couldn't add in a little lemon or orange scent in the dishwashing liquid and make it a "Scented" Card! Won't your Valentine be surprised that you made it yourself.

Underneath the heart you could put different options for what you could do on your Valentine's Date or you could put everything you will be doing on your Valentine's Date.....Or even romantic sentiments..... Let your sweetheart scratch off as many hearts as they want. The sky's the limit on what you can do for this Scratch-Off Card. How adorable and you made it yourself! Get all the information HERE

More Fun Ideas for Organizing your Crafts and Craft Room

2012-01-23T09:55:00.000-07:00

You can really be so creative when it comes to organizing your home, your crafts and your craft rooms. We've found some more fun ways that are inexpensive but clever. Check them out below.

1. Organize mini scrapbook supplies in spice jars

2. Store wet stamps in wire basket for drying

3. Organize craft supplies in household Items

4. Repurpose Workshop storage for scrapbook storage

5. Hang scrapbook supplies in spice jars

6. Use fish tackle boxes for scrapbook storage "on the go"

7. Stack ribbon in a paper towel holder for easy storage

8. Tidy up a scrapbook space with mini magnetic storage solutions

9. Group small embellishments for easy scrapbooking

10. Turn home decor storage into mini storage solutions

11.Secure scrapbook punches on drawer liners

12. Store scrapbook supplies on kitchen gadgets

13. Go-Anywhere Bucket for Wrapping Paper

14. Glue Gun Holder and storage

15. Swivel Trays $20 at Harbor Freight

16.Reuse and recycle old things for craft storage (Coke Box)

To see ALL our features about organizing your Home, Craft Room, and Supplies, click HERE. There are 11 different posts to be viewed.

{Valentine's Day Cakes} 13 Beautiful & Delicious Looking Cakes

2012-01-19T22:49:00.000-07:00

I love a beautiful cake/dessert! Especially when it tastes delicious. We've found some real "show stoppers" here. You know....you eat with your eyes first! We found lots of cakes using ruffled fondant (They are so pretty) and we found a lot of people making cakes using graduated layers or color, also called ombre. We chose the pink ones for this post in honor of Valentine's Day.

This is my favorite of the bunch. A chocolate cake surrounded with pink and white chocolate covered pretzel sticks. Being the huge fan of pink, as I am, this one just caught my eye. Yum! SOURCE

I really like banners on cakes like this. SOURCE

Chocolate Layer Cake with White Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting and donuts? Over the Top! SOURCE

It's a Heritage Red Velvet cake. The secret to this cake's moistness? Buttermilk-Tutorial Included SOURCE

It would be a shame to cut into this beautiful cake? SOURCE

Ruffles and flowers make this a beautiful Valentine Cake. SOURCE

I believe I'm going to have to give this cake first prize in the "ruffled cake" category. Wow! SOURCE

And our final photo of a ruffled cake I believe this version would take the longest to make! SOURCE

We just have to feature a chocolate cake....because after all, isn't Valentine's Day all about chocolate? SOURCE

This is a pink rainbow cake. I love the simplicity of the colors on the banner. Would love to take a slice of this cake! SOURCE

For Valentine's Day you could substitute the butterflies for hearts and put pink and red candles on top. SOURCE Learn how to make this design by checking out this TUTORIAL

This cake is titled "Lots of Hearts" Head on over to "My Cake School" to see how to make it. You might want to join the site. For only $30 you get a full year of tutorials including videos and lots of special things. It's so worth it! SOURCE

You can find out how to make this beautiful Valentine cake HERE

Isn't this Valentine Heart cake amazing! It's from MyCakeSchool.Com She is very very talented. She'll show you exactly how to make this one. Click here My Cake School

{Tangled} Rapunzel Birthday Party Inspiration Here-Lots of Photos

2012-01-19T08:35:00.001-07:00

Many of you are planning on having a Rapunzel or a Tangled birthday party, I know we are! So when I started gathering ideas for a party I thought many of you would like the links to so here they are! Enjoy

Wow! What a great Rapunzel Cake! I can't imagine how many hours it took to design and put together. Get more details about it HERE

This darling 3D Rapunzel would be very cute on your treat or food table-Free download! SOURCE

Here's a darling Rapunzel party from "The Party Bakery". To read all about it head on over to their blog

The photos below are from a Rapunzel party where the theme was geared towards painting (As Rapunzel as also a painter) So we've posted these photos and source here in case you would like to do this at your party. See lots of sources for Rapunzel Coloring Pages HERE

These 3 photos are from a wonderful Rapunzel party. I post them here because of the Rice Krispie treats above that look like a paint brush......Get it? Coloring pages are above! Gotta Love that cake too! SOURCE

If you'd rather have a Rapunzel Doll cake instead of a Rapunzel house then this is the one for you. Absolutely beautiful!

But wait, there's more photos of this Fabulous Tangled Birthday party. Find lots of inspiration for your party HERE

These Tangled Cupcakes are so Cute! Here's the Source

If you're interested in getting some "Rapunzel hair" (hat) then just click on this link

Love this Tangled birthday cake that was made for a little girl's Rapunzel themed birthday party by her mommy! The details in this house and Rapunzel is fabulous. THIS is my favorite Rapunzel cake! SOURCE

If you'd like a Rapunzel / Tangled themed wall quote upon you walls at your birthday party just email us and we'll see what we can design for you! Check out our work over at our Etsy Shop

We've just designed this quote for one of our friends

{Tutorial} You CAN Make Delicious and Pretty Pies & Pie Crust

2012-01-18T22:43:00.000-07:00

I've just learned how to make pies from scratch.....both the crust and the pie filling. I've always been intimidated, thinking it would be too hard to do....Turns out, it isn't! I use the pie crust recipe from the Barefoot Contessa and the filling from Martha Stewart. I've made coconut cream pie, banana cream pie and just the other day I made an apple pie for the first time. I can't stress enough how easy making pie crust is. It takes just about 5 minutes using a food processor, literally! So I've gathered up some ideas for making your pie crust look amazing. Check out all the photos below. Wouldn't a pie be fun on Super Bowl Sunday?

All these pie crusts look so great. Do one of these pie crust designs and your pie will be even more impressive! Yeah, You've Got This.....

Here's the crimped edge and probably the easiest one to do. SOURCE

Here's the braided edge...Looks easy! SOURCE

Cut out shapes with cookie cutters etc SOURCE

Here's the honeycomb pattern-I've never seen this one before SOURCE

The lattice crust is always a hit...I'm going to try this one on the next apple pie I make SOURCE

Tips for making the perfect pie crust

(from Martha Stewart)

Start rolling, working from center. If dough loses circular shape, place end of pin near the crooked edge and roll, working that area by pressing with one hand while holding the pin loosely with the other.

Keep the work surface floured so the dough doesn't lose its shape, stick, or tear: Every few passes, release the dough by running a long offset spatula underneath, then throw more flour under it.

As you go, run your fingers around the edges of the dough to feel if the thickness is even (and if not, to find where you need to roll more).

Fit the dough into the pie plate (pushing down the sides without pressing into the corners); use scissors to trim, leaving 1/4 inch.

Add top crust, trim to 1/2 inch, tuck it under edge of bottom crust, and crimp with fingers, as shown.

Now that you've mastered pie crust you could make these cute little pies (pie pops) Personally I'd serve them without the popsicle stick. This recipe recommends you use the Pillsbury crust but you don't need to do that....now that you're an expert in pie crust. They look yummy! SOURCE

Just read this tip from The Pioneer Women about PIE CRUST: After making your pie crust, form into disk(s), store in ziploc freezer bags and place in your freezer. To use, just remove from the freezer, let thaw for 30 minutes or so, then roll out. (Now that's the sweetest tip! Make ahead crusts? I love it)

Here's a LINK to Martha Stewart that shows 71 different recipes for delicious pies! Amazing!

I've shared this Video from the Barefoot Contessa before but wanted to include it in this post. After you watch the video of her making pie crust you're sure to feel confidant enough to try it for yourself.

Check out these pie crust tips and a this short video from the people at Crisco

(Tutorial) Fondant--Learn How To Make It-Use it for your Valentine Creations

2012-01-17T20:43:00.000-07:00

Would you like a Easy-To-Follow Recipe for making your own Fondant? It is so expensive in the stores and it is so easy to make! You know exactly what goes into it....in case you actually decide you would like to eat some of the fondant! Below is the recipe and some examples of cute Valentine creations and other fun things using fondant!

Such a pretty rose atop a yummy cupcake---and yes that's fondant! SOURCE

Heart shaped cookies decorated with marshmallow fondant, perfect for Valentines Day SOURCE

Use a cookie cutter to cut out these flower shapes SOURCE

This is the perfect cake for your little Minnie Mouse fan! Think of all the money you'll save making your own fondant! SOURCE

Oh, ahhh! What a fabulous cake. All using fondant! SOURCE

Love the X&O's SOURCE

There's a tutorial for these cute fondant covered cookies SOURCE

I just couldn't resist including this one SOURCE

Here is the LINK to the Fondant Recipe. Lots of photos included-Yeah, You've Got This!

{Tutorial} Pretty Valentine's Day Cookies You Can Make Too!

2012-01-17T10:22:00.000-07:00

You're making cookies for Valentines Day, right? It's a lot of fun. Thought we'd share some really beautiful cookies that you could make too. Use the photos as a guide for your own designs. Remember, they don't have to be perfect, just delicious! (just put your laptop on the kitchen counter opened to this post and you'll be able to have the samples right in front of you)

But first, let's get a tutorial on how to flood cookies--If you like the designer look then you're going to want to read this tutorial (lots of photos too) RECIPE and TUTORIAL

Aren't these adorable! Just use the flooding method shown above and use two different colors of frosting. You can purchase these if you don't want to bake! SOURCE

I love the freehand script on this cookie-The brown frosting looks nice HERE

A cookie on the edge of your cup of hot chocolate or coffee....Sweet SOURCE

Love the cookie cutter for the Hugs and Kisses and the Lips! SOURCE

What a pretty way to decorate a heart--Yes, you can do this too! SOURCE

Valentine Heart Cookies that are similar to the Heart Banner that was designed SOURCE

People will think you bought these heart-shaped ice cream sandwich cookies. Get all the instructions and recipe HERE (I've heard the secret to having your cookies be the exact same size and shape as when you cut out the uncooked dough is.....when they come out of the oven use the same cookie cutter and cut out the cookie again. But you have to do it immediately as it comes out of the oven. You'll look like a pro)

Want a Lofthouse-like, Soft Sugar cookie recipe? Well, here it is! SOURCE

I love the scalloped look on these cookies SOURCE

Cute Conversation Heart Cookies--Write any message you want on these heart cookies-Messages for school, some for home or some for your sweetheart SOURCE

These cookies have a lot of detail in them-Wow! SOURCE

Each one is unique, some more simple than others SOURCE