Cup of Delight

Winter Mum Gate Decor {Find It and Make It Friday}

2012-01-27T01:46:00.001-05:00

Every other Friday is "Find It and Make It Friday," where I share a craft I made with materials I already have or found. No spending allowed!

I found a cute little mum gate at an antique wharehouse last year and decided to make it into a photo holder, changeable with the seasons and holidays. I decorated it for Fall, but unfortunately never found the time to change it for Christmas. Oh well-maybe next Christmas!

I decorated it for Winter, though, so here it is-my last Winter craft of January (Time to move on to Valentine's day!). I also used stuff I already had on hand.

Here's a close-up of the details-the Mini Winter Banner, snowflake garland, and clothespins.

Delightfully Creating for (Essentially) Free,

Linking To:

SUNDAYS

Sunday Showcase with Under the Table and Dreaming
Think Pink Sunday with Flamingo Toes

MONDAYS

Craftomaniac Monday with Craftomaniac

Making Monday's Marvelous with C.R.A.F.T

Made By You Monday with Skip to My Lou

So Very Creative with So Very Creative
Craft Catwalk with Embellishing Life

TUESDAYS

Get Your Craft On with Today's Creative Blog
Terrific Under Ten Tuesdays with At Home With K
One Project at a Time with A Bowl Full of Lemons

WEDNESDAYS Home Decor&Organizing Party with Organize and Decorate Everything

Show and Tell with Blue Cricket Design

Look What I made with Creations by Kara

THURSDAYS

Creative Juice Thursday with Momnivore's Dilemma

Crafty Soiree with Yesterday on Tuesday and Katie's Nesting Spot
Get Your Brag On with Gluesticks
Thrifty Thursday with Thrifty Decorating
Crazy Cute Link Party with Between U & Me

FRIDAYS
Friday Frolic with Pocket Full of Pink
Anything Goes Party with Bacon Time with Hungry Hungry Hypo
Everybody's Creative Endeavor with Every Creative Endeavor

Adorable Baby Shower Ideas {Festive Delight}

2012-01-25T17:40:00.000-05:00

At 35 weeks pregnant, all I have is babies on the mind! I've been doing well except lately I've begun to freak out that my ultra sound was inaccurate and we're going to have a boy, even though they clearly showed the lines of the labia. I'm afraid to take the gifts we've received out of the packages and fear that, since I'm now attached to the idea of having a girl, I will not take such a surprise well. I guess this fear is normal, but I wish it would go away!

In fact, that's why I didn't post this last night. I decided I needed to just go to bed because I was irrationally worrying about it. SO, there's an honest look at the state of heart. :-)

Regardless of all that, here are some adorable, creative baby shower ideas that I love and want to try someday for a friend:

Burp Cloth and Baby Sock Cupcakes from Cute As a Fox Creations

These are so cute and I love how they serve as decor AND a gift.

Wash Cloth and Spoon Lollipops from 320 Days of Sunshine

Another cute decor item.gift-or just a really cute way to package a gift!

Baby Blocks in Vase from Young and Crafty

Ducky Punch from Tidy Mom

Love these adorable ideas! I will hopefully post some of the lovely things people have done for me soon-when I get the photos edited.

Delightful Showering,

What I Wore Wed: 35 Weeks Pregnant

2012-01-25T17:02:00.000-05:00

It's That Time of the Week!

5 Weeks left-well, in a perfect world. :-) I'm thinking I'll take a little break from WIWW for a post-partum-or else you will get tired of seeing the variety of ways I can wear sweatpants and Ts. Or maybe I will have one day a week where I try and I'll post that. We'll see!

So, I am of course going to start with Sweatpants. :-) Here's what I wore last Wed-a little reality for ya. I worked at home, so I spent the day in this:

FRIDAY

Top-Kohl's (not maternity)

Sweater-Motherhood Maternity

Jeans-Motherhood Maternity

Shoes-Target

Accesory Close-up:

I love this necklace. It was made by Erin at Crafts&Sutch.

SUNDAY

Sorry for the blurry photo-it was overcast and hard to get a good one!

Top and Jeans-Motherhood Maternity

Scarf-Charming Charlie

Shoes: Maurices

MONDAY

This seems to be my go-to combo with this coral top this Winter.

Top: Old Navy (not maternity-but it is empire waist so it works)

Cardigan-Target (not maternity)

Khakis-Motherhood Maternity

Shoes-The Beijing Pearl Market in Beijing, China-I love these. I actually wore them in my wedding.

And here's a close-up of my accesories:

Headband and Necklace-Target

I don't remember where I got the earrings-I've had them awhile.

TUESDAY

Top-Express (not maternity)

Cardigan-Target (not maternity)

Jeans-Motherhood Maternity

The green necklace made a reappearance! I almost wore a pink one, but it was too much pink.

And my shoes: I got these at a thrift store for $3 and they were practically new!

That's all for this week-Happy Dressing and Accessorizing!

What's On My Nightstand {Delightfully Bookwormish}

2012-01-24T00:02:00.001-05:00

Today I am participating in my first edition of "What's on Your Nightstand" with 5 Minutes for Books, which occurs on the 4th Tuesday of each month. So, if you love to read, please join in!

So, Here we go!

What I Read This Month
(Reviews coming soon!)

The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick
I went out of order reading The Top 100 Children's Novels because I wanted to see the Hugo movie, but read the book first. I never made it to the movie.
(Preview: Loved It!)

The Dragon's Tooth by N.D. Wilson
My sister and her family gave this to me for Christmas and I couldn't wait to read it, so, again, went off my plan. Wilson's first trilogy, 100 Cupboards, is one of my absolute favorites and the new book did not disappoint!
(Preview: LOVED it!)

What I'm Reading Now
Depression: A Stubborn Darkness, Light For the Path by Edward T. Welch
This is taking me FOREVER to read. It's good, but non-fiction doesn't compel me to read as much. I have a few chapters left, so my goal is to finish this before I move on to any fiction! I'm reading this because I've struggled with depression-and probably will on and off my entire life (though I am in a period of peace now). I like it because it addresses the many aspects of depression-physical, chemical, spiritual, experiential, etc.

What's In the Plans for Next Month:
Love That Dog by Sharon Creech (Children's Fiction)
Tears of My Soul by Himm Sokreaksa (Autobiography)

The Borrowers by Mary Norton (Children's Fiction)
My Side of the Mountain by Jean Craighead George (Children's Fiction)

This Month's Reviews:
Johnny Tremain by Esther Forbes
The City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau

You can find my reviews here on my blog and on GoodReads.

Delightful Reading!

Mini Snowflake Tree {Monday's Cup of Creativity}

2012-01-23T01:33:00.003-05:00

I am still not done with Winter! I recently made this little "tree" with twigs I collected last Spring. Yep, last Spring. I needed to do something with them because I'm sure my husband was wondering why I was keeping a bunch of twigs in the corner.

I really wanted a white base because the bookshelf on whichI planned to put it is black. I found a cute little bronzed planter at Michael's, so I decided to get it and paint it antique white with acrylic paint. I liked the etchings on it, so I sanded those areas down, so the etchings would show through. Then, I sealed it. I love how it turned out!

After the base, I put the tree and garland together. Here's How I did It:

Materials:

Planter: (Michael's)
Acrylic Paint-Antique White from Folk Art
Floral Foam (I got mine at the Dollar Tree)
Twigs
Twine String
Mini Snowflake Punch
Paper in various blues
small piece of linen

How To:

1. After I the base dried, I put the floral foam inside-it was curved, so it fit perfectly. I then arranged the branches by sticking them into the foam. I covered it with a piece of linen to hide the foam.

2. For the garland, I punched out snowflakes from various blue colored paper and glued them to the string. When it dried, I hung it on the branches.

Here it is on my Winter bookshelf.

This cute little Winter decoration cost me about $10 because I had most of the materials on hand. I had to buy the planter, punch, and foam.

Delightfully Creating,

Linking To

SUNDAYS

Sunday Showcase with Under the Table and Dreaming
Think Pink Sunday with Flamingo Toes

MONDAYS

Craftomaniac Monday with Craftomaniac

Making Monday's Marvelous with C.R.A.F.T

Made By You Monday with Skip to My Lou

So Very Creative with So Very Creative
Craft Catwalk with Embellishing Life

TUESDAYS

Tutorial Tuesdays with Hope Studios

Get Your Craft On with Today's Creative Blog
One Project at a Time with A Bowl Full of Lemons

WEDNESDAYS
Home Decor&Organizing Party with Organize and Decorate Everything

Show and Tell with Blue Cricket Design

Look What I made with Creations by Kara

THURSDAYS

Creative Juice Thursday with Momnivore's Dilemma

Crafty Soiree with Yesterday on Tuesday and Katie's Nesting Spot
Get Your Brag On with Gluesticks
Thrifty Thursday with Thrifty Decorating
Crazy Cute Link Party with Between U & Me

FRIDAYS
Friday Frolic with Pocket Full of Pink
Anything Goes Party with Bacon Time with Hungry Hungry Hypo
Everybody's Creative Endeavor with Every Creative Endeavor

Delights of the Week: Valentine's Cuteness and More!

2012-01-22T15:59:00.000-05:00

The following are some of my favorite projects I saw in blogland throughout the past week. Please click on links for details and tutorials!

There is a lot of Valentine Cuteness going on in the blogsphere right now, so this week's Delights is a bit Valentine heavy.

I've always loved Valentine's Day because my parents made it fun for me and my sister growing up. They always gave us a little treat gift. It was extra special because my Dad usually picked out something especially for us. It made me feel known and loved by my Dad and in later years I never felt that Valentine's Day was all about having a boyfriend (or not having one, which is how I spent the majority of mine until Jeff! :-)) Because of that, I always made it a point to have fun on Valentine's Day sans significant other. And yes, as weird as it is, Jeff is the only guy I've seriously dated-and not until the age of 27. But, I will tell that story later! And thanks Mom and Dad for loving me well!

OK, onto the Delights!

Flower Heart Wreaths from Bliss Bloom Blog

These lovely wreaths by Mel are my kind of Valentine's Decor. As she amusingly puts it, she wasn't ready for her house to "look like cupid's lair." I share her sentiments! I like the cutesy Valentine's stuff, but it's usually not my personal style.

Infant Peasant Dress from Sew Much Ado

So precious! Of course, their pattern (free on their blog) can be used for anytime of year. With less than two months until my little girl arrives, I can't get enough of baby girl cuteness. I really want to try it, but I'm a pre-beginner sewer and the elastic scares me.

Guitar Gift Bags from Crafty Pink Anchor

Here's my one non-Valentine's pick (no pun intended). Love these gift bags that Kim made!

Valentine Pennant Banner from Crafty Sisters

This banner from Candace and Nicole is some Valentine cuteness I can love! The paper is adorable.

Used Dryer Sheet Envelopes from Sunny Vanilla

Jen gives us a fabulous way to recycle those used dryer sheets! Of course, this can be used for things other than Valentine's Day, but it's a perfect and free little pocket for your love notes.

Yummy Goodness of the Week:

Valentine's Day S'mores from Haniela's Food and Photography

These are so perfect for Valentine's Party or gift! Everything is homemade-even the marshmallows. Click link for recipes.

Free Printable of the Week:

Hershey Kiss Stickers from Shindig Parties To Go

Spiff up your Valentine's Kisses with these adorable stickers! Click on link to download the freebie.

Keep on Creating!

Faux Friday: Shabby Apply Simply Alice Knock Off

2012-01-19T23:48:00.003-05:00

Every other week is "Faux Friday" where I post a Knock-off project I or someone else has made.

I started "Faux Friday" almost a year ago and I've loved doing it because it challenges me to try new crafting techniques I would never normally try. Unfortunately, I think I'm going to have to slow down on the knock off projects due to costs and the fact that I'm going to pop out a human in less than two months.

But, don't worry, Faux Friday is not disappearing! I am either going to try to feature more knock offs from other bloggers and keep it at every other week OR move it to once a month, but it will not disappear entirely.

If you happen to have a knock off project you'd like featured, please email me at cupofdelight{at}yahoo{dot}com!

Now, onto today's Knock Off. I saw the "Simply Alice" bracelet on Shabby Apple and knew this had to be my next project. I already had a pink freshwater pearl bracelet that broke, so I figured this would be a great way to revitalize it.

This Shabby Apple's version, sold for $55

Mine was essentially free, since I already had the materials, BUT it probably would've cost me about $5 to make. This is mostly due to the fact that I got the pearls in China where they are super cheap.So, I saved $50!

My version:

The Shabby Apple one is one strand, but my old bracelet was a three-strand and I actually liked the way it looked and was laid out, so I first re-created that bracelet. So, instead of having a claw clasp like the SA one, mine just wraps around my wrist.

I made the bracelet by stringing the beads on jewelry wire (I think mine is 20-guage) and shaping it to circle around my wrist naturally. That's how my old bracelet was originally made before the ends started giving out. I'm not sure what the originally maker did, but I shot some glue inside the end pearls to secure them on the ends of the wire.

Then, I simply tied a black satin bow on the backside of one strand (so that it would not hinder me from wrapping the bracelet around my wrist).

I like how it looks laying there on a table. :-) The verdict is still out about how I feel about it on my wrist.

The bow is a cute idea, but I'm not sure I love it. It reminds me of a tux. I think that's supposed to be the affect, though-like the Rabbit's bow tie from Alice in Wonderland. It's growing on me, though.

Delightfully Knocking Off,

Linking To

SUNDAYS

Think Pink Sunday with Flamingo Toes

MONDAYS

Craftomaniac Monday with Craftomaniac

Making Monday's Marvelous with C.R.A.F.T

Made By You Monday with Skip to My Lou

So Very Creative with So Very Creative
Craft Catwalk with Embellishing Life
Motivate Me Monday with Keep It Simple

TUESDAYS

Get Your Craft On with Today's Creative Blog
Terrific Under Ten Tuesdays with At Home With K
One Project at a Time with A Bowl Full of Lemons

WEDNESDAYS

Show and Tell with Blue Cricket Design

Look What I made with Creations by Kara

THURSDAYS

Creative Juice Thursday with Momnivore's Dilemma

Crafty Soiree with Yesterday on Tuesday and Katie's Nesting Spot
Get Your Brag On with Gluesticks
Crazy Cute Link Party with Between U & Me

FRIDAYS
Friday Frolic with Pocket Full of Pink
Anything Goes Party with Bacon Time with Hungry Hungry Hypo
Everybody's Creative Endeavor with Every Creative Endeavor

City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau {Delightfully Bookwormish}

2012-01-19T17:59:00.000-05:00

The School Library Journal's Top 100 Children's Novels #77

Title: The City of Ember (Books of Ember #1)

Author: Jeanne DuPrau

Genre: Children's Fiction (ages 10 and up); Fantasy; Futuristic

The Recipe: (from Goodreads) The city of Ember was built as a last refuge for the human race. Two hundred years later, the great lamps that light the city are beginning to flicker. When Lina finds part of an ancient message, she’s sure it holds a secret that will save the city. She and her friend Doon must decipher the message before the lights go out on Ember forever.

The Frosting and Sprinkles: Overall, I enjoyed reading The City of Ember. Despite some flaws, it is a good story and I found it intriguing and exciting. It didn't take me long to read it because I wanted to know how it ends.

The book focuses on two middle schoolers, Lina and Doon-they are very unique from each other, but both likeable characters. They are courageous children, but their flaws are also evident, making them relateable and interesting.

DuPrau addresses the ideas/themes of dystopia, the dangers of group-think, and political and human corruption on a middle grade age-appropriate level.

The ending was open-ended and not quite resolved, but filled with hope. I still enjoyed it and then found out there are actually 3 more books, so I look forward to reading those at some point int he future.

The Hair That Fell Into the Batter: The City of Ember has a few flaws, but they did not hinder my enjoyment of the story. There are some loose ends that leave the reader having to suspend their belief a little more than fantasy and futuristic novels usually require-mostly because they are questions of logic.

For example, why is no one trained in how to fix the generator? If the Builders of the city were so smart, why did they not train people on specifics instead of giving them vague directions to blindly follow? I mean, what if the generator just broke before their planned 200 years of it working? Also, why did they leave the biggest key to survival of the human race in the hands of politicians? They were escaping an Apocalypse-they certainly would've have known politicians can't be trusted! And, finally, it's hard to believe that not one of the people chosen to go down to the city and raise babies ever told "their children" about their lives before Ember. It's the nature of humans-we can't keep our mouths shut.

Despite these examples, I still enjoyed the story and was able to ignore them for the time.

My Rating:

3 Out of 5 Cupcakes!

(I liked it)

Winter Centerpiece {Delightfully Nesting}

2012-01-18T00:33:00.002-05:00

I am still pretending it is a Winter wonderland here in North Carolina, so here is my dining table centerpiece for Winter:

I recycled my snowy pine cones from my Christmas centerpiece and added light blue yarn balls that I made. I like the mix of cozy and cold.

In the smaller holders, I used mini pine cones, blue stones, and white berries, all of which I had on hand.

I've almost done an entire year of this centerpiece, so I'll show them all in one post soon. I wasn't particularly crazy of my Valentine's one last year, so I'm waiting until I create a new one for this year!

Delightful Winter Decking,

Linking To

SUNDAYS

Think Pink Sunday with Flamingo Toes

MONDAYS

Craftomaniac Monday with Craftomaniac

Making Monday's Marvelous with C.R.A.F.T

Made By You Monday with Skip to My Lou

So Very Creative with So Very Creative
Craft Catwalk with Embellishing Life
Motivate Me Monday with Keep It Simple

TUESDAYS

Handmade Tuesday with Ladybug Blessings

Get Your Craft On with Today's Creative Blog
Terrific Under Ten Tuesdays with At Home With K
One Project at a Time with A Bowl Full of Lemons

WEDNESDAYS
Home Decor&Organizing Party with Organize and Decorate Everything

Show and Tell with Blue Cricket Design

Look What I made with Creations by Kara

THURSDAYS

Creative Juice Thursday with Momnivore's Dilemma

Crafty Soiree with Yesterday on Tuesday and Katie's Nesting Spot
Get Your Brag On with Gluesticks
Thrifty Thursday with Thrifty Decorating
Crazy Cute Link Party with Between U & Me

FRIDAYS
Friday Frolic with Pocket Full of Pink
Anything Goes Party with Bacon Time with Hungry Hungry Hypo
Everybody's Creative Endeavor with Every Creative Endeavor

What I Wore Wednesday: 34 Weeks Pregnant

2012-01-18T00:05:00.000-05:00

It's time for another week of What I Wore Wednesday with Lyndsay from The Pleated Poppy!

I went a little scarf crazy last week because it was actually cold enough to wear scarves!! Yea!! So, here I am at 34 Weeks Pregnant.

WEDNESDAY

It was an overcast day, so my pics are a little blurry. :-(

Here's two pictures, so you can see my hat, though it is blurry. It's been a while since I wore a hat (because it is has been hot this Winter), so I was itching to wear one!

Dress- Forever 21 a long time ago (not maternity-I'm probably ruining it :-))

Cardigan-Target (not maternity)

Leggings-Target (not maternity-I didn't buy any maternity leggings because they are ridiculously over priced. I just bought leggings a size or two bigger than my normal size and it worked!)

Boots-Target-I love these and am so glad I can still prop my leg up and zip them up!

hat-somewhere in NYC-I can't remember.

THURSDAY

I did a little color play today and tried aqua with navy and grey-I liked it.

Grey T-shirt: I think it's from Charlotte Russe-it's one of the non-maternity things I can get away with wearing. Plus, it was covered up, so if it rode up a little, no one could tell!

Wrap-Shirt: It's from Gap Maternity, but my friend Jessica let me lent it to me

Scarf: Walmart, believe it or not! I have a like/hate relationship with Walmart.

Jeans-Motherhood Maternity

Shoes: Maurices

FRIDAY

grey t-shirt: The Loft (not maternity, but it is larger than I normally wear)

Cardigan:Target (not maternity)

Scarf:Gifted to me

Jeans:Motherhood Maternity

Shoes: Uh, even I can't see them very well, but I think they are my grey flats from Charlotte Russe. That would make sense.

SATURDAY

I sadly didn't get a photo of my adorable new purple flats I bought on clearance, but I'll save them for another week because I will be wearing them as much as possible!

Here is me and my mom at my first baby shower! Uh, mom, hope you don't mind me posting a picture of you.

Top: Target (Liz Lange Maternity)

Sweater: Maurices (not maternity)

Jeans: Motherhood Maternity

Necklace: Forever 21

TUESDAY

Yeah, skipped Sunday and Monday.

Sweater: Target (I think it's Liz Lange-another fabulous loan from my friend Jessica)

Jeans-Motherhood

My beloved red flats: Dilliards

And that's all for this week! I do want to take a moment to point you to another fun fashion blog that encourages participation. Kayla at My Greatest Hits is currently doing an ABC fashion Challenge. Each day has a different theme (she lets you know what it is the day before and sometimes a few days before) and you can post your outfit that goes with that theme. She's only on C, so go check it out!

I'm going to try to participate in this some days, so you may see some random outfit posts along with my normal post for the day!

Delightful Dressing,

Winter Berry Wreath {Monday's Cup of Creativity}

2012-01-15T22:51:00.003-05:00

I'm still adding some Winter touches to our decorations. I made this simple little wreath to hang over our bookshelf.

It was really easy to make. I just used five white berry sticks that I bought at Hobby Lobby. I twisted them together and into a circle and then tied a blue bow on top. Easy Breezy, but a fun little Winter touch! AND it cost under $5.

Delightfully Creating.

Linking To

SUNDAYS

Think Pink Sunday with Flamingo Toes

MONDAYS

Craftomaniac Monday with Craftomaniac

Making Monday's Marvelous with C.R.A.F.T

Made By You Monday with Skip to My Lou

So Very Creative with So Very Creative
Craft Catwalk with Embellishing Life
Motivate Me Monday with Keep It Simple

TUESDAYS

Handmade Tuesday with Ladybug Blessings

Tutorial Tuesdays with Hope Studios

Get Your Craft On with Today's Creative Blog
Terrific Under Ten Tuesdays with At Home With K
One Project at a Time with A Bowl Full of Lemons

WEDNESDAYS
Home Decor&Organizing Party with Organize and Decorate Everything

Show and Tell with Blue Cricket Design

Look What I made with Creations by Kara

THURSDAYS

Creative Juice Thursday with Momnivore's Dilemma

Crafty Soiree with Yesterday on Tuesday and Katie's Nesting Spot
Get Your Brag On with Gluesticks
Thrifty Thursday with Thrifty Decorating
Crazy Cute Link Party with Between U & Me

FRIDAYS
Friday Frolic with Pocket Full of Pink
Anything Goes Party with Bacon Time with Hungry Hungry Hypo
Everybody's Creative Endeavor with Every Creative Endeavor

Delights of the Week: Home Decor, January, and a Little Valentine's

2012-01-15T01:32:00.002-05:00

* The following projects are some of my favorites from other bloggers that I've seen this past week. Please click on links for details and/or tutorials!

It's time for Delights of the Week! This week the projects I chose are a hodge podge of themes, but they are all fabulous.

Piano Key Shelf from Diary of a Crafty Lady

Lindsay's sister made this beautiful shelf from a defunct piano she obtained for free!

Gathered Heart Pillow from V and Co.

Love this cute pillow for Valentine's!

Door Corner Shelf from Craftaholics Anonymous

Linda made this herself-what a creative way to re-purpose a door! And it's super cute.

Photo Heart Banner from ScrapperGirl

I love Shelley's Valentine's banner made from photo strips!

Yummy Recipe of the Week:

Frozen Hot Chocolate from Gluesticks

Yummy and perfect for this January which has been ridiculously warm.

Free Printable of the Week:

Weekly Organizer Sheets from Artsy Fartsy Mama

Lindsay made these great printables in several fun colors, so click on her link to download them!

Keep on Creating,

Comments Now Under Moderation-Stupid Spammers!

2012-01-13T14:12:00.000-05:00

So, someone decided to have a field day with my blog today and post about 30 spam comments on various posts. I have never had this problem before and I really like the ease of people being able to comment without approval, but unfortunately some moron trying to get us to visit a stupid website has made this convenience impossible for the time being. :-(

I do hate word verification, so I will not impose that on you. :-) But, I have now set my comments to be approved by me before being posted-it is much easier to deny approval then to go back and delete 30 spam comments!

Maybe I will able to switch it off after some time. Sorry for the inconvenience and thanks for reading and for your sweet comments!

Faux Friday Postponed until next Friday!

2012-01-13T01:09:00.000-05:00

Normally, I every other week I do, "Faux Friday," where I post a knock off project I've made or feature someone else's . I am postponing it until next Friday. :-( I apologize-it's been a tiring day and I haven't been able to finish it. So, look for it next Friday!

Honey Glazed Broiled Salmon {Delightful Morsel}

2012-01-11T02:30:00.001-05:00

This is a yummy, quick, and easy way to make Salmon (which is good for you too!)

Total Time: 15 Minutes

Ingredients:

1-1 1/4 pound piece skinless salmon fillet, cut into 4 pieces (I usually buy it fresh and skin it myself, but you can have the butcher do it for you)
1 tblsp honey
1 tsp. low sodium soy sauce
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper

Directions:

1. Heat broiler. While heating, combine honey and soy sauce.

2. Place salmon on a foil-lined broiler-proof baking sheet (or broiler pan) ans season with salt and pepper. Broil for 5 minutes.

3. remove salmon from broiler and spoon honey mixture over the salmon. Broil until salmon is opaque throughout, about 2 to 5 more minutes.

Recommended Pairings:

Sauteed Collard Greens

Garlicky Green Beans

Birds Eye Steamfresh Multigrain Blend with Spinach, Tomato and Onions (found in freezer section)

Linking To:

SUNDAYS

Think Pink Sunday with Flamingo Toes

MONDAYS

Craftomaniac Monday with Craftomaniac

Made By You Monday with Skip to My Lou

TUESDAYS

Tutorial Tuesdays with Hope Studios
One Project at a Time with A Bowl Full of Lemons

WEDNESDAYS

Look What I made with Creations by Kara

THURSDAYS

Crafty Soiree with Yesterday on Tuesday and Katie's Nesting Spot
Get Your Brag On with Gluesticks

FRIDAYS

Anything Goes Party with Bacon Time with Hungry Hungry Hypo

What I Wore Wednesday: 33 Weeks Pregnant!

2012-01-11T02:10:00.000-05:00

I've slacked off on taking photos of my outfits and have not participated in WIWW in the past few weeks, but I am back!

For those who began following me recently, I try to participate in WIWW with The Pleated Poppy every week, in addition to my regular post. It's a fun way to challenge my creativity in dressing-and to step outside the box.

But, this week is not a good example. Haha. I've been lazy and since I've been working from home, I am afraid the frump took over. There were a couple of days I didn't even get out of my pajamas. I'm going to just say I was preparing for my first few weeks of being a new mom. :-)

Nah, I was just being lazy, but I did manage to take 3 pictures. Here I am at 33 weeks pregnant!

I don't remember what day this was,but I think it was Thursday:

Please ignore my dusty mirror. :-)

Top: I don't remember, my sister gave it to me but it is a maternity shirt

Cardigan: Target (no maternity)

Jeans: Motherhood Maternity

Necklace: Made by Me

Shoes:

Hot pink satin shoes from H&M

SUNDAY

Top: Forever 21 (not maternity-I really don't know how I'm still pulling off the non-maternity clothes. Either a lot of clothes were empire waist and super long or I'm stretching out the clothes I'm still wearing!)

Khakis: Motherhood Maternity

Shoes: Target

TUESDAY

Top: Old Navy (Not Maternity, but it was ridiculously baggy so not surprised it fits)

Jeans: Motherhood Maternity

Sweater: Maurices (not maternity)

Shoes: the H&M pink ones again

Necklace: Made by Me

And lest you think I don't really look pregnant (these head-on self portraits don't do the bump justice)-here I am from the side!

Delightful Dressing!

Princess & the Pea Party {Festive Delight}

2012-01-10T01:36:00.000-05:00

Last year, Jodi from Paintchips & Cupcakes threw an adorable Princess and the Pea themed party for her daughter. This fabulous DIY party also included pajamas and pancakes, of course! I love this party so much, I asked Jodi if I could feature it.

Check out some of her adorable decorations:

I am gushing over this table setting! Jodi sewed the table cloth herself and made it to look like stacked mattresses. I love how the whole table looks like a bed!

Cute fabric banner! Love the colors-they are very close to the ones I am using for my baby's nursery, so of course, I love them.

Jodi also made a cute little themed PJ top for the birthday girl.

For activities, the guests decorated crowns, wands, and castles.

They also did face painting and pained their nails.

And of course, what is a party without cupcakes?! They are essential, even after downing some pancakes!

Jodi made these adorable favor bags too!

I love everything about this party. Um, is 31 too old to have a Princess and the Pea Party? I am not sure I can wait four more years for all this cuteness. Thankfully, I'm having a girl! Of course, she'll probably be a tomboy and want a a dirt party or something. :-)

Check out Jodi's blog for more details about her party-she is a wonderful photographer, so check out her photos too.

Delightful Celebrating,

DIY Winter Art {Monday's Cup of Creativity}

2012-01-09T00:14:00.005-05:00

All my Christmas decorations are down, so I've been trying to place touches of Winter around our apartment. I like to put up some non-Christmas Winter decorations before I jump into Valentine's Day. Hearts and flowers just seem out of place to me in January.

Despite the fact that it's 60 degrees and sunny outside, I'm pretending we live in a Winter Wonderland with my DIY art for Winter.

Because there isn't much time between New Year's and Valentine's, I went simple. Fir the larger piece, I used a free printable from Stay At Home Artist. I embellished the snowflakes with some pearl embellishments I already hand, so it was practically free!

For the black frame, I was really lazy and just pasted a snowy pine cone embellishment from Jolee's Boutique onto blue scrapbook paper.

For the silver frame, I cut out a snowflake embellishment from The Paper Studio and added pearl embellishments that I had on hand.

And that is my DIY art for Winter. I've now done a whole year's worth of DIY art, so I will have to show them all together soon.

Delightfully Creating,

Linking To:

SUNDAYS

Think Pink Sunday with Flamingo Toes

MONDAYS

Craftomaniac Monday with Craftomaniac

Making Monday's Marvelous with C.R.A.F.T

Made By You Monday with Skip to My Lou

So Very Creative with So Very Creative
Craft Catwalk with Embellishing Life
Motivate Me Monday with Keep It Simple

TUESDAYS

Handmade Tuesday with Ladybug Blessings

Get Your Craft On with Today's Creative Blog
Terrific Under Ten Tuesdays with At Home With K
One Project at a Time with A Bowl Full of Lemons

WEDNESDAYS
Home Decor&Organizing Party with Organize and Decorate Everything

Show and Tell with Blue Cricket Design

Look What I made with Creations by Kara

THURSDAYS

Creative Juice Thursday with Momnivore's Dilemma

Crafty Soiree with Yesterday on Tuesday and Katie's Nesting Spot
Get Your Brag On with Gluesticks
Thrifty Thursday with Thrifty Decorating
Crazy Cute Link Party with Between U & Me

FRIDAYS
Friday Frolic with Pocket Full of Pink
Anything Goes Party with Bacon Time with Hungry Hungry Hypo
Everybody's Creative Endeavor with Every Creative Endeavor

Also

The CSI Project - Challenge of the Week: Winter Decor and Crafts

Delights of the Week: Random Goodies

2012-01-08T02:46:00.000-05:00

The following are some of my favorite projects I saw on the internet this week by other bloggers. Please click on the links to see details and tutorials!

This week's round-up is pretty random-but I find this is normal after the holiday projects are done!

Embroidery Hoop Art from Little Bit Funky

Crystal's blog is one of my favorites and I love her embroidery hoop art-these are some of her newest adorable creations.

Dollar Store Favor Box Makeover from Crafting Rebellion

The Rebel Crafter took these dollar store wedding favors to a whole new level! These are fabulous for any girly event.

Tooth Fairy Pillow from At Home In the Northwest

There's a little pocket in the back to hold the tooth-and mulah. So cute!

Free Printables of the Week!

2012 Calendar from The Tomkat Studio

Need a calendar for 2012? Download this simple but cute one for free by clicking the link.

One Year of Monthly Checklists from Creative Organizing

No photo-but click on this link to print out an organizing checklist for each month and get organized in 2012! Aby offers a great way to get and stay organized by breaking it down throughout the whole year, so you won't get overwhelmed.

Yummy Recipe of the Week!

Mexican Corn Cake from Chef In Training

I used to love the Mexican Corn cake at Chis Chis-I hope this tastes like it! Regardless, it sounds yummy!

Keep on Creating,

NC Love Art {Find It and Make It Friday}

2012-01-06T02:09:00.002-05:00

* Every Other Friday is "Find It and Make It Friday" when I feature a project I've made out of materials I already own or found. No spending allowed!

State love art is super trendy right now! You will see them all over blogland and with different variety. I think they are cute, but never had a reason to make one until recently. My friend who was studying here from South Korea recently went back to her country, so I thought a little state art love would be a perfect addition to her goodbye gift. Here is what I made for her:

I put the heart over the city where I live and where she studied with a stamp.

Super simple-I just found a frame and some cute scrapbook paper and made a simple, cute, handmade gift.

Delightfully Creating from Things Lying Around,

Linking To

MONDAYS

Making Monday's Marvelous with C.R.A.F.T

So Very Creative with So Very Creative
Craft Catwalk with Embellishing Life

TUESDAYS

Get Your Craft On with Today's Creative Blog
Terrific Under Ten Tuesdays with At Home With K

WEDNESDAYS

Look What I made with Creations by Kara

THURSDAYS

Creative Juice Thursday with Momnivore's Dilemma
Thrifty Thursday with Thrifty Decorating
Crazy Cute Link Party with Between U & Me

FRIDAYS
Friday Frolic with Pocket Full of Pink
Anything Goes Party with Bacon Time with Hungry Hungry Hypo
Everybody's Creative Endeavor with Every Creative Endeavor

Phi Phi Island, Thailiand (Delightful Adventures)

2012-01-05T01:11:00.000-05:00

Phi Phi Island (yes, it's pronounced "pee" "pee") is a place that postcards can only dream of capturing. Sunny and beautiful year-round, it is a great vacation spot-especially if you are a college student studying abroad in China, which I was in the Winter of 2004.

In China, the big holiday is Lunar New Year, which occurs in January or February, according to the Lunar Calendar. So, their big break from school is not summer, but January and February. My friends and I took this opportunity to visit Thailand where we we spent a few days on Phi Phi Island in perfect 80 degree weather.

I wish I could offer you details about where we stayed and where we ate, but I was not much of a documenter on that trip! I needed to relax, so I did. Also, nearly ever infrastructure on Phi Phi was sadly destroyed less than a year later during the Tsunami of 2004. So, I am not sure how much of the smaller places were re-built.I believe nearly all of the resorts have been re-built.

I can, however, tell you that it is a great, super affordable vacation, if you're already nearby. Once you get to Phi Phi, everything is inexpensive, but the plane ticket is what costs the most.

Here are some of the highlights from my trip.

I did lots of relaxing by the pool and on the beach, gazing at this breath-taking view:

Just to warn the Americans, Phi Phi is a big vacation spots for Europeans who like to sun bathe topless and Asian (and European) men who love to wear really tight speedos. It may be a culture shock.

I also had fun doing outdoor activities, such as kayaking. I reccomend taking a trip on over to Monkey Beach where you might just get to this:

Feed wild monkeys!!!

Then, I can live vicariously through you because I sadly did not get a chance to do this. But, it's OK, I was able to play with monkeys at other times in my life.

I also went hiking and saw beautiful views of the cliffs.

I ate lots of fresh, yummy seafood.

And met B-list celebrities staying at the same resort!

For those of you who are not of the "My So Called Life" generation, that is Jared Leto, now most famous for dating Lindsay Lohan and starting a band called 30 Seconds to Mars, of whose songs I can't name one. He was in Thailand filming the movie "Alexander" which I never saw. That's probably why I am laughing awkwardly in this photo-because I'm not really a fan...or maybe it was the weird conversation he had with us in which he told us he knew we were Christians because we had "an aura of innocent light" around us. Mmmhmm.

George had fun on vacation too, in his natural habitat. I mean, I assume such trees are also found in Africa. He was also disappointed about missing Monkey Beach, though I am pretty sure he think those monkeys are a bit primitive. He lives in a swanky apartment in Manhattan, after all.

Delightful Traveling!

"Johnny Tremain" by Esther Forbes {Delightfully Bookwormish}

2012-01-03T00:03:00.001-05:00

The School Library Journal's Top 100 Children's Novels #78

Title: Johnny Tremain

Author: Esther Forbes

Genre: Children's Fiction, Historical Fiction

The Recipe: (from Goodreads) Johnny Tremain, a young apprentice silversmith, is caught up in the danger and excitement of 1775 Boston, just before the Revolutionary War. But even more gripping than living through the drama of Revolutionary Boston is the important discovery Johnny makes in his own life.

The Frosting and Sprinkles: The main characters, especially Johnny are likeable. Though he is very arrogant and prideful, you can't help but sympathize and like Johnny.

The idea of the book is interesting and unlike some "historical" fictions, Forbes actually did her research on the Revolutionary War.

The Hair That Fell Into the Batter: BUT, the book is fairly boring and the plot thins out in the middle and becomes uninteresting again until the end. But, then the end is not very good either. There are touching moments, but for the most part, it just ends and leaves a lot unanswered and not in a good way that makes you contemplate.

Out of curiosity, I checked out some of the reviews of this book on GoodReads (after I wrote me own). It seems that adults appreciate this book, but kids hate it. So, I'm guessing you can skip this one for your kids.

My Rating:

2 Out of 5 Cupcakes!

(It was OK)

Lace Cuff Bracelet {Monday's Cup of Creativity}

2012-01-02T00:44:00.007-05:00

2012 is here! I'm excited about what this year will have in store here at Cup of Delight. This year I will become a mom for the first time, so things might slow down around March-hopefully you;ll stick with me as I figure out life. I tend to be a little too ambitious...especially about how many craft project I want to do.

Onto today's craft-I saw this lovely lace cuff bracelet on U-Create Crafts from I {Heart} Naptime. Here is mine made with green satin:

So pretty! It's inexpensive too, as the materials will make several bracelets. I made this one as a gift, but I'm thinking I will have to make one for myself!

I used Jamielyn's tutorial at U Create, which is fantastic, so there's no need for me to re-create it. I do, however have a couple of tips that I learned in the process:

1. I couldn't find elastic lace that was as wide as hers, so I bought a double-layered elastic lace and pulled the sides to separate. The top layer will be skinnier, but it still looks great-and it easily stays apart when you add all the embellishments.

2. The flowers petals do not have to be perfect-it all comes together once you glue it together.

Delightfully Creating,

Linking To:

SUNDAYS

Think Pink Sunday with Flamingo Toes

MONDAYS

Craftomaniac Monday with Craftomaniac

Making Monday's Marvelous with C.R.A.F.T

Made By You Monday with Skip to My Lou

So Very Creative with So Very Creative
Craft Catwalk with Embellishing Life
Motivate Me Monday with Keep It Simple

TUESDAYS

Handmade Tuesday with Ladybug Blessings

Get Your Craft On with Today's Creative Blog
Terrific Under Ten Tuesdays with At Home With K
One Project at a Time with A Bowl Full of Lemons

WEDNESDAYS

Show and Tell with Blue Cricket Design

Look What I made with Creations by Kara

THURSDAYS

Crafty Soiree with Yesterday on Tuesday and Katie's Nesting Spot
Get Your Brag On with Gluesticks

FRIDAYS

Friday Frolic with Pocket Full of Pink
Anything Goes Party with Bacon Time with Hungry Hungry Hypo
Everybody's Creative Endeavor with Every Creative Endeavor

Cup of Delight Best of 2011

2011-12-29T02:10:00.000-05:00

I thought I would join the party and do a "Best of the Year" post this year, in case you missed anything. I am so thankful for all of you who visit and read my blog. I do it purely for enjoyment, so I am encouraged that people actually want to read what I post!

I am grateful for you all-this year I have more than doubled blog hits and followers. Thanks so much for all of your support! I enjoy being inspired by you too.

So, without further ado, here are my most popular posts from 2011-thanks to all of you!

Most Popular Craft/DIY Posts

1. 10 Things I Love About You Gift (Alternative "Scrapbook")

2. Magnetic Chore Chart

3. Anthropologie Lace and Key Necklace Knock Off

4. DIY Christmas Art

5. Vintage Spool Christmas Tree

6. Dollhouse Miniatures

7. Red Light/Green Light Costume

8. Valentine's Day No-Sew Bathroom Towels

9. Anthropologie Inner Circle Necklace Knock Off

10. Subway Map Crafts

Most Popular Non-Craft Posts

1. UK Love (Travel)

Some favorite memories of growing up overseas-and my awesome 80s haircut!

2. NYC Themed Party Ideas (Parties/Hosting)

3. Organizing Scrapbook Embellishments (Home Decor/Organization)

4. China is a Yummy Place (Travel Adventures)

5. No Bake Spider Cookies (Recipes/Halloween)

Thanks for a very delightful year! See ya in 2012!

DIY Party Ideas-Great for New Years! {Festive Delight}

2011-12-26T23:37:00.000-05:00

Here are some of my favorite DIY party ideas. They are great for any party, but definitely would be fun for a New Year's Eve Celebration. Click on links for tutorials!

DIY Party Blowers from Utterly Engaged

I love how easily these can be made with any cute paper!

Mini Pinatas from Oh Happy Day

Are these not uber adorable?! No paper mache and each guest can have their own!

DIY Drink Umbrellas from Etcetorize

Drink umbrellas are cute anyway-why not make them cuter with cut paper?

Paper Bag Lanterns from Landee See, Landee Do

Easy and cute decor!

Have a Delightful New Year!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-23T00:03:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to wish you all a Happy Christmas! I hope your holiday is filled with true joy!

Love,

April, Jeff, and Little Baby Girl

Mini Paper Wreath {Monday's Cup of Creativity}

2011-12-18T23:08:00.001-05:00

I made this inexpensive mini wreath to go over my bookshelf for Christmas.

Nothing fancy, but I think it's cute and whimsical-AND it was super cheap. I had all the materials on hand.

Here's How I did It-

Materials:

6" Embroidery Hoop (You can use any ring form, or make your own, but I had the hoop on hand)
Card Stock (I used My Mind's Eye Countdown to Christmas)
Circle punches-2.5 inch, 1.5 inch, and 1 inch
Craft Glue (I use Elmer's Tacky Craft Glue)
Ribbon
Miniature Christmas ornaments

How To:

I simply punched out the circles in various sizes and glued them onto the ring form, leaving space to tie ribbon on the bottom and top. I laid out all the circles before gluing, so I would know how I wanted it to look. After letting the circles dry, I tied on the top hanging ribbon and the bottom ornaments.

Delightfully Creating,

Linking To:

MONDAYS

Craftomaniac Monday with Craftomaniac

Making Monday's Marvelous with C.R.A.F.T

Made By You Monday with Skip to My Lou

So Very Creative with So Very Creative
Craft Catwalk with Embellishing Life
Motivate Me Monday with Keep It Simple

TUESDAYS

Handmade Tuesday with Ladybug Blessings

Tutorial Tuesdays with Hope Studios

Get Your Craft On with Today's Creative Blog
Terrific Under Ten Tuesdays with At Home With K
One Project at a Time with A Bowl Full of Lemons

WEDNESDAYS
Home Decor&Organizing Party with Organize and Decorate Everything

Show and Tell with Blue Cricket Design

Look What I made with Creations by Kara

THURSDAYS

Creative Juice Thursday with Momnivore's Dilemma

Crafty Soiree with Yesterday on Tuesday and Katie's Nesting Spot
Get Your Brag On with Gluesticks
Thrifty Thursday with Thrifty Decorating
Crazy Cute Link Party with Between U & Me

Link Party Features {Delights of the Week}

2011-12-18T12:41:00.001-05:00

It's hard to believe there's only one week left until Christmas! I still need to take care of some gifts too...I am usually done and wrapped by now, but I haven't even wrapped anything. Ah!

Here are some fabulous Christmas ideas linked up at my Delightfully Handmade Christmas Link Party.My party will be going on until the end of Christmas day, so feel free to keep linking up and thanks for joining the party!

Snowflake Pillow from House of Noise...I Mean Boys

So cute! I love snowflakes-and I love how this pillow is simple but beautiful!

Happy Little Tree Art from Maymay Made It

I love how we can use paper to make things beautiful-love this idea!

PB Kids Inspired NOEL Letters from Diary if a {Wannabe} Domestic Diva

You know I love a good knock off! This one is adorable and I can't even tell the difference between it and the original!

Jesse Tree Advent from In Christ Alone

Love this unique idea Advent!

Keep on Creating Delightfully!

Gifts Kids Can Make {A Delightfully Handmade Christmas}

2011-12-16T00:38:00.000-05:00

Join the Handmade Christmas Link Party!!

Welcome to Week 7-and the final week of A Delightfully Handmade Christmas!

(To view the previous weeks, click the link above and see schedule)

Today's theme is Gifts Kids Can Make (or help make!)

Fingerprint Ornaments from Stephanie Lynn

No-Sew Potpourri Sachets from 101 Handmade Gift Ideas

Art Note Cards Cards from Disney Family Fun

Doily Candle Holders from Parents Magazine

Custom Calendar from Martha Stewart

4 more days until Hanukkah begins! 9 days until Christmas! There's still a little more time to make those gifts. I am off to work on some PJ pants for my niece...I am totally intimidated by them.

Have a delightfully handmade Christmas,

My Christmas Decor {Delightfully Nesting}

2011-12-14T04:00:00.005-05:00

Here is a view of my Christmas decorations this year. I am slowly adding pieces each year.

My Faux Mantle (AKA Bookshelf)

I like slightly off Christmas colors and I really love this combo, so I decided to start it this year-Cranberry, Clover Green, Silver, and light blue.

Here are some close-ups (with link to posts about my crafts/diy projects):

DIY Christmas Art

Mini Trees

Fabric and Paper Trees

Vintage Spool Tree

Ornaments and Lantern

Mini Paper Circle Wreath

Dining Room Centerpiece

I went with traditional colors for this one.

Our Christmas Tree

(Yep, it's an NC State/Travel Christmas Tree)

We live in a tiny apartment, so a full-size tree is out of the question for now. We put up this little guy filled with my husband's NC State ornaments and mementos from our travels together.

The Corner Shelf

Muffin Tin Advent Calender

(I put Rolos in it!)

Mini Forest with another fabric tree, paper tree, and my Yarn Tree

My Mini Tree

Here's the tree that started it all! My mini tree I got when I was 9 years old. It came from Hallmark and I have a collection of Hallmark miniature ornaments from years past. I added the random display next to it with some stuff I had on hand. My mom gave me the little nutcracker.

The Big Bookshelf

Please forgive how messy and crowded this is! I have not mastered this shelf and our many books yet-and by mastered I mean make them pleasing to the eye.

I will address the menorah and driedle first (and the irony of them placed below the "Christian Life" label :-)) So, long story short, when I was a little girl I really wanted to be Jewish. I still am a lover of Jewish people and culture. But, when I was a girl I was a little weird about it. I convinced my mom to buy me a driedle (with my limited understanding of Jewish holidays) and tried to get my friends to play with me. In my adult life, my friends like to encourage my interest, so they like to gift me with Jewish things like this menorah and driedle-and Passover plates and random t-shirts.

I'm a Christian by faith and though I really wish I would find out I was culturally Jewish, it probably won't happen. Ain't no harm-my Saviour is Jewish and the Old Testament is still important to my faith, so celebrating Jewish holidays is not so weird. But, you should know, Hanakkuh is actually a minor Jewish holiday.

As for the other decor-I made the "JOY" for our Christmas card this year, so I slapped it up there with that little tree I found at Target. Thought it was cute and it reminded me of Charlie Brown.

Advent Wreath

And that is my Christmas Decor for 2011. I may add one more thing, if I have time-even though it is only 11 days until Christmas (I'll re-use it!)

Delightful Holiday Nesting!

Linking To:

SUNDAYS

Sunday Showcase with Under the Table and Dreaming
Think Pink Sunday with Flamingo Toes

MONDAYS

Craftomaniac Monday with Craftomaniac

Making Monday's Marvelous with C.R.A.F.T

Made By You Monday with Skip to My Lou

So Very Creative with So Very Creative
Craft Catwalk with Embellishing Life
Motivate Me Monday with Keep It Simple

TUESDAYS

Handmade Tuesday with Ladybug Blessings

Get Your Craft On with Today's Creative Blog
One Project at a Time with A Bowl Full of Lemons

WEDNESDAYS
Home Decor&Organizing Party with Organize and Decorate Everything

Show and Tell with Blue Cricket Design

Look What I made with Creations by Kara

THURSDAYS

Creative Juice Thursday with Momnivore's Dilemma

Crafty Soiree with Yesterday on Tuesday and Katie's Nesting Spot
Get Your Brag On with Gluesticks
Thrifty Thursday with Thrifty Decorating
Crazy Cute Link Party with Between U & Me

FRIDAYS
Friday Frolic with Pocket Full of Pink
Anything Goes Party with Bacon Time with Hungry Hungry Hypo
A Pinteresting Link Party with Space 46

Vintage Spool Christmas Tree {Monday's Cup of Creativity}

2011-12-11T22:48:00.005-05:00

A friend from church recently gave me a treasure drove-a bag full of vintage wooden spools that her Mom and Grandma never threw out! I decided to make a little Christmas tree with some of them and it's probably my favorite Christmas craft I've done this year.

It was free to me because I had all the materials on hand!

If you want to make one of your own, but have no vintage spools-no worries! You can create a similar look by buying wooden spools at a craft store (usually in the wood section) and distressing them with distress ink to get an aged look.

Here's How I Made It:

Materials:

20 Wooden Spools (This makes tree that is about 7" tall)-I used a larger one for the trunk
Scrap ribbon and lace
hot glue gun

To make the tree, I first wrapped the pieces of ribbon and lace around each spool, hot gluing the ends. Then I made each row by hot gluing the ends of the spools together. Then, I assembled the whole tree, hot gluing one row on top of the other. When the rows dried, I then glued on the trunk and the top bow. I let it dry flat and stood it up only when dry, so it wouldn't collapse.

I'll show you all of my decor tomorrow or Wed. (I may not post tomorrow because it's my and Jeff's 2-year anniversary today!)-I didn't get around to doing some of the stuff I planned, but that's OK. The past couple of months have been so hectic for us and I am still trying to finish some Christmas gifts. Genius here decided to try to make her niece some matching PJS with her AG doll-never having taken a sewing class in my life. I conquered the doll ones-but the 7-year old ones terrify me a little!

Delightfully Creating,

Linking To:

FOR CHRISTMAS
Handmade Holiday with Just a Girl
A Crafty Creative Christmas with Me Making Do
Holiday Link Party with Momnivore's Dilemma
Holiday Link Party with That's What {Che} Said
Christmas Craft Marathon with Lisa's Craft Blog

Christmas Link Party With My World Made By Hand

SUNDAYS

Sunday Showcase with Under the Table and Dreaming
Think Pink Sunday with Flamingo Toes

MONDAYS

Craftomaniac Monday with Craftomaniac

Making Monday's Marvelous with C.R.A.F.T

Made By You Monday with Skip to My Lou

So Very Creative with So Very Creative
Craft Catwalk with Embellishing Life
Motivate Me Monday with Keep It Simple
Creative Me Monday at the Southern Institute

TUESDAYS

Handmade Tuesday with Ladybug Blessings

Tutorial Tuesdays with Hope Studios

Get Your Craft On with Today's Creative Blog
Terrific Under Ten Tuesdays with At Home With K
One Project at a Time with A Bowl Full of Lemons
Home Decor&Organizing Party with Organize and Decorate Everything

WEDNESDAYS

Show and Tell with Blue Cricket Design

Look What I made with Creations by Kara

THURSDAYS

Creative Juice Thursday with Momnivore's Dilemma

Crafty Soiree with Yesterday on Tuesday and Katie's Nesting Spot
Get Your Brag On with Gluesticks
Thrifty Thursday with Thrifty Decorating
Crazy Cute Link Party with Between U & Me

FRIDAYS
Friday Frolic with Pocket Full of Pink
Anything Goes Party with Bacon Time with Hungry Hungry Hypo

Delights of the Week: Features from A Delighfully Handmade Linky Party

2011-12-11T00:17:00.000-05:00

The following are some fabulous projects linked up in my Delightfully Handmade Christmas Linky Party. The party is on until December 26, so come on over and link up your Christmas projects, recipes, decor, gift ideas, etc!

Paper and Lace Snowflake Ornament from Lisa's Craft Blog

Paper Scrolled Snowflake from Kokeshi Crafts

Advent Calendar Wreath from Home Style

Merry Berry Cheese Bars from Silver Boxes

Thanks for linking up and keep on creating!

Saturday Shout Outs

2011-12-10T18:15:00.000-05:00

A quick shout out of "thanks!".

Thanks to Jamie at C.R.A.F.T. for featuring my Mini Checkerboard!

And thanks also to Karen from Goodbye City Hello Suburbs for featuring my Button Christmas Tree!

Handmade Decor {A Delightfully Handmade Christmas}

2011-12-10T02:35:00.001-05:00

Join the Handmade Christmas Link Party!!

Welcome to Week 6 of A Delightfully Handmade Christmas!

(To view the previous weeks, click the link above and see schedule)

Today's Theme is Handmade Decor! Here are some easy and fairly inexpensive ideas for making your own decorations.

Easy Trees:

Fabric Wrapped Trees

I made the trees above, but I saw this wonderful idea and tutorial on Landee See, Landee Do

Folded Card Stock Trees

Again, I made the above, but this si another great idea from Landee See, Landee Do. Click link for her tutorial.

Button Tree

I made this cute tree last year for my mom.

Linen and Lace Trees from Flamingo Toes

So pretty! Maybe I'll tackle these next year!

No Sew Christmas Tree Skirts
Love these two simple, no-sew ideas:

Ruffle Skirt from The Crafted Sparrow

Ruched Skirt from Teal & Lime
Only $12!

Ornaments

Rustic Snowflakes from Little Things Bring Smiles

Paper Tree from Full of Great Ideas

Advent Calendars

Muffin Tin Advent Calendar

Fridge Advent Calendar from Call Me Badger

Baby Sock Advent from Martha Stewart

I hope these ideas inspire you to make some decorations of your own! Stay tuned next week for the final week of A Delightfully Handmade Christmas, where I will share gift ideas kids can make. Also, please link up to the link party!

Have a Delightfully Handmade Christmas,

Linking Up My Projects To:

Christmas Link Party With My World Made By Hand

Places to Shop: Little Miss Chic {Shopping Delights}

2011-12-07T01:36:00.000-05:00

I recently unexpectedly won a give away at The CSI Project. I participated in a link party and was automatically entered to win a prize pack from Little Miss Chic. I had never heard of this store before, but I was elated when I received my package in the mail. Such cute stuff!

Little Miss Chic is an online store that sells handmade accessories for little girls and women of any age. Here is what I won (love them!)

Turquoise Flower Necklace

Rose Rings

$6 each

Winter Teal Ruffles Bow

Winter Sparkle Ruffle Headband $8

She has a ton more cute stuff, so go check out her store! Also, Follow Little Miss Chic on Facebook-she has flash giveaways.

Disclosure: Angie of Little Miss Chic did not ask me to promote her store. I simply loved the prize I received and like to share the things I enjoy!

Delightful Handmade Buying,

"All of a Kind Family" by Sydney Taylor {Delightfully Bookwormish}

2011-12-05T22:52:00.000-05:00

The School Library Journal's Top 100 Children's Novels #79

Title: All-Of-A-Kind Family

Author: Sydney Taylor

Genre: Children's Fiction, Historical Fiction

The Recipe: (From Goodreads) It's the turn of the century in New York's Lower East Side and a sense of adventure and excitement abounds for five young sisters - Ella, Henny, Sarah, Charlotte and Gertie. Follow along as they search for hidden buttons while dusting Mama's front parlor, or explore the basement warehouse of Papa's peddler's shop on rainy days. The five girls enjoy doing everything together, especially when it involves holidays and surprises. But no one could have prepared them for the biggest surprise of all!

The Frosting and Sprinkles: This is the kind of book kids seem to enjoy-very Little House on the Prairie-esque.

It's a quick read for adults and has many positive themes such as loving family and loving others. The family in this novel is Jewish, so there are some interesting snippets about Jewish American culture and Jewish holidays.

The ending is fun...BUT...

The Hair That Fell Into the Batter: Nothing Interesting happens until the very end of the book. Before you get there, you have to read through little plot-line and character development and the everyday, mundane activities of life in turn of the century New York.

I have a feeling kids will relate, though. The biggest conflicts consist of lost library books and not wanting to do chores. I personally found it uninteresting.

My Rating:

2 Out of 5 Cupcakes!

(It Was OK)

DIY Christmas Art {Monday's Cup of Creativity}

2011-12-05T02:29:00.005-05:00

If you've been following my blog for more than a couple of months, you probably know that I have a space on my bookshelf with DIY art that I change seasonally and per holiday.

I recently finished my DIY art for Christmas and put it on display. I'll be showing you my whole shelf soon-I still need to finish decorating. Ack!

Here are some close-ups:

The Paper Christmas Tree

I saw this idea on Simply Living. I thought it was super cute and easy (and fast!) so I did it with a couple tweaks of my own. I used a star button for the top and a wooden spool for the trunk. The paper I used was My Mind's Eye Countdown to Christmas, which I bought at Michael's.

Button Wreath Art

Simple but cute. I like Christmas colors that are a little off, so this year I decided to start this color scheme-cranberry, Clover Green, light blue, and silver. I can't wait until I have the whole vignette finished! Hopefully it will be done today.

Manger Art

I wanted one piece to demonstrate my faith and the reason I celebrate Christmas. I'm not an artist, so I decided to make it with random found materials. I purposely made this abstract.

I have a little qualm with nativities, which is why I do not have one nor have I made one. I know, I am a weirdo. :-) But here's the thing-I just can't find one I love. They are either historically/biblically inaccurate, the figurines are white with blond hair and blue eyes (which would fall under the previous category since Jesus and his family were Jewish), or they are too cutesy for my taste. I'm sure I'm ridiculous, but oh well!

I admit, I have a hang-up with the white Jesus thing. And I'm as white as they get. So, for my little piece I used a tiny wooden bowl for baby Jesus' head (I had this in my craft supplies), but yep, I stained it to make it browner. I admit it-I am a nerd.

Delightfully Creating,

Linking To:

Christmas Link Party With My World Made By Hand

SUNDAYS

Craft Schooling Sundays with Creative Jewish Mom

Sunday Showcase with Under the Table and Dreaming
Think Pink Sunday with Flamingo Toes

MONDAYS

Craftomaniac Monday with Craftomaniac

Making Monday's Marvelous with C.R.A.F.T

So Very Creative with So Very Creative
Craft Catwalk with Embellishing Life
Motivate Me Monday with Keep It Simple

TUESDAYS

Handmade Tuesday with Ladybug Blessings

Get Your Craft On with Today's Creative Blog
Terrific Under Ten Tuesdays with At Home With K
One Project at a Time with A Bowl Full of Lemons

WEDNESDAYS

Show and Tell with Blue Cricket Design

Look What I made with Creations by Kara
Handmade on Humpday with Created By Cori

THURSDAYS

Creative Juice Thursday with Momnivore's Dilemma

Crafty Soiree with Yesterday on Tuesday and Katie's Nesting Spot
Get Your Brag On with Gluesticks
Thrifty Thursday with Thrifty Decorating
Crazy Cute Link Party with Between U & Me

FRIDAYS
Friday Frolic with Pocket Full of Pink
Anything Goes Party with Bacon Time with Hungry Hungry Hypo

Delights of the Week: Features from Link Party

2011-12-03T23:58:00.001-05:00

Since I am throwing a fun Handmade Christmas Link Party, I will be featuring projects from this party for the next few weeks for "Delights of the Week." Thank to everyone who linked up-please keep linking up those handmade holiday projects!

Pottery Barn Inspired Winter Wreath from Sadie Priss

You know I love me some Pottery Barn knock offs! This one is so pretty and sparkly.

Avocado Grinch and and Guacamole Tree Dip from Bacon Time with Hungry Hungry Hypo

An adorable, creative way to serve food!

Snowflake Banner from Space 46

I love how she made this with no cutting machine necessary!

Ruffled Christmas Tree Skirt from Craftify It

No sewing needed for this beauty!

More features next Sunday! If you were featured, feel free to grab a button from my right column, at the top (click the tab that says "Grab My Button")

Keep on Creating,

Handmade Gifts for Teens and Tweens {A Delightfully Handmade Christmas}

2011-12-02T16:26:00.001-05:00

Join the Handmade Christmas Link Party!!

Welcome to Week 5 of A Delightfully Handmade Christmas!

(To view the previous weeks, click the link above and see schedule)

This week's theme is Gifts For Teens and Tweens. Here are some handmade gift ideas that YOU can make yourself, followed by some handmade items you can buy online!

Gifts YOU Can Make

(Click links for details and tutorials)

Bottle Cap Magnets

From Cap Creations

CD Visor

(from Instructables.Com)

Key Fob

(from JCaroline Creative)

Handmade Gifts for Teens (or Tweens) You Can Buy

For the Guys:

Lego Journal/Sketchbook from Signal Mountain Artists

$25

Leather Key Chains from GimCarry

Key Chain Made from Recycled Skateboard from All Deckdout

$10

For the Gals:

Journal/Sketchbook from Signal Mountain Artists

$23

Cosmetic Bag from GimCarry

$25

Root Beer Float Lip Gloss from Clean Queen Soap Co

$3.50

Monogrammed Totes from Bowpeep

$19.95

...And check this out- just because this is so hilariously ridiculous...

Justin Bieber Wood Figure

Stay tuned next week for some Handmade Decoration Ideas!

Have a Delightfully Handmade Christmas,

Link Party! A Delightfully Handmade Christmas Link Party

2011-12-02T01:05:00.003-05:00

Welcome to The Delightfully Handmade Christmas Link Party!

As part of my "A Delightfully Handmade Christmas" Series I am hosting a link party! Please link up your Handmade projects for the holidays-Christmas, Chanukah, Winter, etc. The party will last until December 26 and I will feature projects each week.

Party Guidelines:

1) Link Handmade holiday projects-crafts, gift ideas, decorations, recipes. Old or new!

2) Please do no link giveaways or other parties.

3) Please be gracious to your host and post my button OR a link to my party on your post or blog.

4) Please visit other links and comment.

5) Have fun!!

"American Born Chinese" by Gene Luen Yang {Delightfully Bookwormish}

2011-12-01T14:43:00.000-05:00

Title: American Born Chinese
Author: Gene Luen Yang
Genre: Graphic Novel, Young Adult

The Recipe: (From Good Reads) American Born Chinese tells the story of three apparently unrelated characters: Jin Wang, who moves to a new neighborhood with his family only to discover that he’s the only Chinese-American student at his new school; the powerful Monkey King, subject of one of the oldest and greatest Chinese fables; and Chin-Kee, a personification of the ultimate negative Chinese stereotype, who is ruining his cousin Danny’s life with his yearly visits. Their lives and stories come together with an unexpected twist in this action-packed modern fable

The Frosting and Sprinkles: I read American Born Chinese because I have an affinity for Chinese culture and my sister, who is an expert of Young Adult and Children's literature (she will embarrassed that I deemed her that :-)) recommended it. This is the first graphic novel I've ever read and I found it a quick, easy, fun, and humorous read.

The book is very amusing and entertaining, but also contains deep levels of meaning and symbolism. It's a book about cultural identity and explores many aspects of shame and pride. I found the character development and layering surprising because it is a graphic novel. You know a writer is talented when they can pull this off in a series of comic strips.

I love that the author includes the Chinese fable of the Monkey King (from the famous Chinese work of literature Journey to the West) and combines it with a modern tale. There are many interesting mixes of East and West culture as well as mixing the Bible and Christian imagery with a story routed in Buddhism. It's a novel that makes you think and a great exploration of the cultural identity issue.

I can't write a review of this book without mentioning the illustrations, which were also drawn by the author. I am not a graphic expert, but I love how Yang portrays emotions and humor in a simple cartoon.

The Hair That Fell Into the Batter: I don't have any complaints about this book other than I felt it ended a little abruptly.

My Rating:

4 Out of 5 Cupcakes!

Charleston, SC-Boone Hall Plantation {Delightful Adventures}

2011-11-30T00:00:00.003-05:00

Cost: $19.50 for Adults, $9.50 for Kids 6-12, Children 5 and under are free-This includes a 30 minute guided tour of the house and admittance into all areas and buildings.

Hours: Check Website - Changes With Seasons

Time Needed to Explore: 1 and a half hours to 2 hours (House tour lasts 30 minutes)

Nestled among tall oak trees lies one of America's oldest plantations, Boone Hall. Decorated to reflect plantation life of the 1800s, visitors catch a glimpse of what life was like in the historic South. It is one of Charleston, SC's most popular attractions and Jeff and I visited there last December during our one-year Anniversary trip.

I wanted to visit Boone Hall over the other plantations because I grew up watching The North and the South, which was partially filmed at the house. If you lived in the 80s, you may remember this super over-dramatic mini series about the Civil War starring Patrick Swayze and many other stars of the 80s. I was a weird six year-old and loved it...probably not the demographic they were going for, but whatevs. I believe this mini series was shipped to us on VHS tape from the US to the UK, where we lived. That's how fabulous it was.

The house is MUCH smaller than it appears on TV! But, I am a history and historical house nerd, so I enjoyed my visit there-with one exception* (see my random rant at the bottom if curious)

We took a 30-Minute guided tour of the inside of the house and were able to explore the grounds on our own. Some highlights of Boone Hall Plantation:

The Famous Driveway of Oak Trees

Old Barn

Serpentine Wall

Slave Quarters, which includes an interesting presentation of slave life in the 1800s and Gullah culture

This tree is registered as an historic tree-it's over 200 years old.

A swampy lake lies behind the house...alligators? I didn't get close enough to find out.

We were not allowed to take photos of the inside, but it is worth a visit, especially if you enjoy historical houses!

Delightfully Exploring the Historical South,

*My Little Rant:

Apparently, slight racism is accepted in SC. No offense, South Carolinians! I have many lovely friends from SC who are not racist and I am well aware there are many racist people in NC-and all over the US for the matter-yes even the North so please don't preach to me about this "being the South." I've lived both places and there are people in the North who are far worse with racism!

However, I was a little shocked that Boone Hall sells Pickaninny figurines-you know, the false and offensive (because they are belittling) caricatures of little black children eating watermelons. Yep. Apparently some white people think they're cute-which is also offensive and belittling.

I also thought it was weird that the tour guide talked about the plantation's rich history and successes-even mentioned that all the bricks were made by slaves-but kind of ignored the whole slavery issue. I realize this is a tourist attraction and they want to avoid offending people, but it's a part of US history and the history of the house-they could at least acknowledge there was a sad history mixed in with all the good stuff instead of pretending it wasn't a big deal. Just my personal opinion. I am glad they had a presentation about Slave Life in the Slave Quarters section, acknowledging the important role they played in our history and culture.

Our Advent Wreath {Delighfully Nesting}

2011-11-29T01:29:00.005-05:00

One of my favorite parts of Christmas is celebrating Advent because it helps me focus more on Christ and less on the other parts of the holidays that so easily capture my fancies (or stress me out!). This year Advent began on November 27, so one of the first things I put together for Christmas was our Advent "wreath."

If you have no idea what Advent is and are curious, here is a good explanation-but I will briefly explain in a moment.

I put together a new Advent "wreath" this year and I love it! I do not prefer the traditional evergreen wreath, so I went a different a route this year and made it pretty and clean with a symbolic wreath of green ornaments.

I love the colors!

So, What Is Advent?

Some of you may be wondering what Advent is and why some Christians celebrate it. Basically, Advent is a season in the Church calendar that begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas (Since Christmas is on a Sunday this year, it began exactly five weeks before). It is a season of longing and expectation. It is designed to prepare our hearts for Christmas and the celebration of God coming to earth to be with us. It is also a time for us to reflect in hope on the Return of Christ when He will make all things on earth right, which we believe will happen one day.

Sadly (to me, anyway) many less-traditional Christian churches have let go of the practice of Advent. I actually do not belong to a traditional church, but have always tried to practice it at home to prepare my own heart for Christmas. My husband and I are doing so this year and I personally think it's also a great way to help children focus less on the presents and learn more about Jesus.

And What Do You Do For Advent?

The basic practice is this-there's four candles. You light the first one on the fourth Sunday before Christmas and then the first and second on the third Sunday before Christmas and so on, adding a candle each Sunday. The middle candle represents Christ and you light his candle on Christmas morning. The candle lighting is accompanied with a reading from the Bible and usually a hymn singing. The third candle is pink and is known as the "Joy Candle" because this week focuses on the celebration and joy of the expectation of Christ.

What Jeff and I Are Doing For Advent

This year, Jeff and I are using a wonderful devotional that you can find and download HERE. I highly recommend it! It is great for adults and kids. Each Sunday includes a scripture reading, brief devotional, hymn, a reading from the Jesus Storybook Bible (my absolute favorite children's Bible!), and a prayer. Our first child is still in the womb, but we still read the children's stuff-I would sans baby anyway because I love the Jesus Storybook Bible.

If you are interested in celebrating Advent and missed last Sunday, no worries! You can start whenever.

And this is the extent of the Christmas decorations I have up so far. :-) I'm working on it.

Delightfully Celebrating the Season,

Linking My Wreath To:

FOR CHRISTMAS
A Crafty Creative Christmas with Me Making Do
Holiday Link Party with Momnivore's Dilemma

SUNDAYS

Sunday Showcase with Under the Table and Dreaming
Think Pink Sunday with Flamingo Toes

MONDAYS

Craftomaniac Monday with Craftomaniac

Making Monday's Marvelous with C.R.A.F.T

Made By You Monday with Skip to My Lou

So Very Creative with So Very Creative
Craft Catwalk with Embellishing Life
Motivate Me Monday with Keep It Simple

TUESDAYS

Handmade Tuesday with Ladybug Blessings

Get Your Craft On with Today's Creative Blog
Terrific Under Ten Tuesdays with At Home With K
One Project at a Time with A Bowl Full of Lemons

WEDNESDAYS

Show and Tell with Blue Cricket Design

Look What I made with Creations by Kara

THURSDAYS

Creative Juice Thursday with Momnivore's Dilemma

Crafty Soiree with Yesterday on Tuesday and Katie's Nesting Spot
Get Your Brag On with Gluesticks
Thrifty Thursday with Thrifty Decorating
Crazy Cute Link Party with Between U & Me

Mini Distressed Checkerboard {Monday's Cup of Creativity}

2011-11-28T01:15:00.005-05:00

I saw this craft on Little Miss Momma and knew I had to make on for my niece. I included it in her Halloween treats this year. It's super easy and inexpensive to make-and super cute!

It cost me about $3 to make because I had some of the materials on hand, but my guess is it cost $5 or under for all the materials.

I mostly followed Ashley's tutorial with some tweaks. Here's how I made it:

Materials

6x6 Wooden Plaque (found in most craft stores)
Acrylic Paint-two colors (I used Folk Art "Antique White" and "Fresh Cut Grass")
Masking Tape
Sand Paper Medium Grade (I buy them in packs of sheets at Lowe's Hardware)
Buttons
Pencil and ruler

How To

1. Paint wooden plaque with off-white paint (I did one coat because I planned on distressing it and wanted the wood to show through).

2. Measure squares and draw lines with pencil and ruler. A checkerboard has 8 rows of 8 squares, so divide the measurement of your plaque by 8 to get the size of the squares. My plague was 6x6 so each square measured 3/4 of an inch.

3. Now it's time to paint the other color squares (in my case, green). First, tape off the squares you want to keep white with masking tape (or painter's tape, but masking tape is cheaper and works for this craft). Because every other square needs to be painted, you will have to do it in two sittings, so that the squares dry properly before you cover them with tape.

4. When paint is dry, distress the board with sand paper.

5. Place buttons on as pieces and enjoy!

Delightfully Creating,

Linking This Project To:

FOR CHRISTMAS
Handmade Holiday with Just a Girl
A Crafty Creative Christmas with Me Making Do
Holiday Link Party with Momnivore's Dilemma

SUNDAYS

Sunday Showcase with Under the Table and Dreaming
Think Pink Sunday with Flamingo Toes

MONDAYS

Craftomaniac Monday with Craftomaniac

Making Monday's Marvelous with C.R.A.F.T

Made By You Monday with Skip to My Lou

So Very Creative with So Very Creative
Craft Catwalk with Embellishing Life
Motivate Me Monday with Keep It Simple

TUESDAYS

Handmade Tuesday with Ladybug Blessings

Tutorial Tuesdays with Hope Studios

Get Your Craft On with Today's Creative Blog
Terrific Under Ten Tuesdays with At Home With K
One Project at a Time with A Bowl Full of Lemons

WEDNESDAYS

Show and Tell with Blue Cricket Design

Look What I made with Creations by Kara

THURSDAYS

Creative Juice Thursday with Momnivore's Dilemma

Crafty Soiree with Yesterday on Tuesday and Katie's Nesting Spot
Get Your Brag On with Gluesticks
Crazy Cute Link Party with Between U & Me

FRIDAYS

For the Kids Fridays with Sun Scholars

Handmade Gift Ideas For Men {A Delightfully Handmade Christmas}

2011-11-25T22:47:00.001-05:00

Welcome to Week 4 of A Delightfully Handmade Christmas!

(To view the previous weeks, click the link above and see schedule)

This week's theme is Gifts For Men. Here are some handmade gift ideas that YOU can make yourself, followed by some handmade items you can buy online!

Gifts YOU Can Make

(Click Links for details and tutorials)

Business Card Holder

(from How About Orange)

Cuff Links

(from MarthaStewart.com)

Tie Gadget Case

(from Dollar Store Crafts)

Handmade Gifts For Men You Can Buy

Leather Toiletry Bag from Felix Street Studio

$60

Leather Cell Phone Case from Felix Street Studios

$28

Etched Pint Glasses from Bread and Badger

$15

Aftershave from Wild Rose Herbs

$6.99

Stay tuned next week for Handmade Gift Ideas for Tweens and Teens!

Have a Delightfully Handmade Christmas,

Guest Posting at Me Making Do!

2011-11-25T10:48:00.000-05:00

Today I'm at Me Making Do, guest posting for Heather's A Crafty Creative Christmas! I am sharing my tutorial for cute yarn and jute-wrapped trees.

Please go check it out!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T01:20:00.002-05:00

I hope everyone has a wonderful and blessed Thanksgiving....unless you're not American, then I hope you have a wonderful and blessed Thursday!

Milk and Cookies Party Ideas {Festive Delights}

2011-11-23T06:20:00.000-05:00

"Milk and Cookies" is a current popular theme for kids' birthday parties and baby showers. It is also my current nightly pregnancy craving. So, here is a round-up of fabulous ideas for throwing a fun "Milk and Cookies" shindig.

Invitations

Milk and Cookies on the Invitation

From A Party Style

Invitation shaped like milk and cookies

from The Rowe Crew

Designed like a vintage milk ad

from Red Umbrella

Decorations

Serving the cookies in cookie jars is a must!
Decorate large round trays or cookie sheets as cookies to serve on

from Anne's Vinyl and So Much More

Brown and White Decor-doesn't it just make you think of chocolate and milk?

from A Party Style

Vintage Milk Cans and Bottles

from Anne's Vinyl and So Much More

Banners! Check out this adorable one from Your Little Birdie

She also made this adorable wreath:

Other good banner ideas-a cookie banner or a banner made from straws
Kitchenette or Baker's Rack for display (see photo below-she added cookbooks too!)

from Bridgey Widgey

For kids, you can always add cows or cookie monster to your theme and decorations

Food

There will be lots of sweet, so some salty finger snacks, like pretzels and goldfish, are a good idea OR you can keep with the theme and make cookie shaped salty snacks like mini pizzas or round crackers with cheese
A Variety of Cookies are a must!

from Frog Prince Paperie

And milk, of course! But, there a variety of cute ways to serve it:

In Mason jars with straws

from The Cupcake Tower

In Fancy Glasses

From partyblog.mygrafico.com

In Milk bottles with straws

From Lindey Magee

Milkshake Shooters

From The Cupcake Tower

Cookie Dough Shots

from My Computer is My Canvas

Milk Mustaches

from Bridgey Widgey

Cookie Straws
Cookie Pops

Cake

Cookie-Flavored/Cookie Dough Cupcakes

from Life Is Better With Cake

Milk and Cookies cake

from Duet Letterpress

If you add Cookie Monster to a kid's party, you can make adorable Cookie Monster cookies or cupcakes

from In Katrina's Kitchen

Activities

Cookie Decorating
Cookie Making
For Kids, you can read "If You Give a Mouse a Cookie" and do similar activities as in the book

Favors

An excellent idea is to have containers for guests to take home their favorite cookies-that way you don't have leftovers!
If it's a cookie making party, you can include wooden spoons
You can also include cartons of chocolate milk powder with the take-home cookies

Delightful Partying,

"Where The Mountain Meets the Moon" by Grace Lin {Delightfully Bookwormish

2011-11-22T00:13:00.001-05:00

School Library Journal's Top 100 Children Novels #81

Title: Where The Mountain Meets the Moon

Author: Grace Lin

Genre: Children's Fiction, Fantasy, Chinese Mythology

The Recipe: (Description from Goodreads) In the Valley of Fruitless Mountain, a young girl named Minli spends her days working hard in the fields and her nights listening to her father spin fantastic tales about the Jade Dragon and the Old Man of the Moon. Minli’s mother, tired of their poor life, chides him for filling her head with nonsense. But Minli believes these enchanting stories and embarks on an extraordinary journey to find the Old Man of the Moon and ask him how her family can change their fortune. She encounters an assorted cast of characters and magical creatures along the way, including a dragon who accompanies her on her quest.

The Frosting and Sprinkles: Minli is a great female character-strong-willed, brave and kind-hearted. I love how she contrasts with the female expectations of Chinese culture in the time-setting of this novel.

Where the Mountain Meets the Moon is a story based on a mixture of Chinese folklore and stories the author made up herself. It is parable-like with positive themes of compassion, valuing other living things, hard work, family love and support, selflessness, and faith in something outside one's self.

The novel is made up of a larger plot with occasional smaller stories told throughout. I really enjoyed seeing how all the characters in the bigger plot and individual stories were tied together.

The book is enjoyable and will help children and adults to appreciate Chinese culture in a new way. Plus, the illustrations are beautiful-all of which were drawn by the author!

The Hair That Fell Into the Batter: I felt the characters were not very developed throughout the story. Most of them remained the same, with the exception of the mother. I enjoyed reading this novel, but I do not prefer the smaller stories breaking up the moving of the larger plot. In the case of this novel, the stories are pertinent, but it is not my preference of style.

My Rating:

3 and a half Cupcakes out of 5!

(Which means I liked it a little more than just "like")

Cup of Delight

Winter Mum Gate Decor {Find It and Make It Friday}

Adorable Baby Shower Ideas {Festive Delight}

What I Wore Wed: 35 Weeks Pregnant

What's On My Nightstand {Delightfully Bookwormish}

Mini Snowflake Tree {Monday's Cup of Creativity}

Delights of the Week: Valentine's Cuteness and More!

Faux Friday: Shabby Apply Simply Alice Knock Off

City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau {Delightfully Bookwormish}

Winter Centerpiece {Delightfully Nesting}

What I Wore Wednesday: 34 Weeks Pregnant

Winter Berry Wreath {Monday's Cup of Creativity}

Delights of the Week: Home Decor, January, and a Little Valentine's

Comments Now Under Moderation-Stupid Spammers!

Faux Friday Postponed until next Friday!

Honey Glazed Broiled Salmon {Delightful Morsel}

What I Wore Wednesday: 33 Weeks Pregnant!

Princess & the Pea Party {Festive Delight}

DIY Winter Art {Monday's Cup of Creativity}

Delights of the Week: Random Goodies

NC Love Art {Find It and Make It Friday}

Phi Phi Island, Thailiand (Delightful Adventures)

"Johnny Tremain" by Esther Forbes {Delightfully Bookwormish}

Lace Cuff Bracelet {Monday's Cup of Creativity}

Top 5 Books I Read in 2011 {Delightfully Bookwormish}

Cup of Delight Best of 2011

DIY Party Ideas-Great for New Years! {Festive Delight}

Merry Christmas!

Mini Paper Wreath {Monday's Cup of Creativity}

Link Party Features {Delights of the Week}

Gifts Kids Can Make {A Delightfully Handmade Christmas}

My Christmas Decor {Delightfully Nesting}

Vintage Spool Christmas Tree {Monday's Cup of Creativity}

Delights of the Week: Features from A Delighfully Handmade Linky Party

Saturday Shout Outs

Handmade Decor {A Delightfully Handmade Christmas}

Places to Shop: Little Miss Chic {Shopping Delights}

"All of a Kind Family" by Sydney Taylor {Delightfully Bookwormish}

DIY Christmas Art {Monday's Cup of Creativity}

Delights of the Week: Features from Link Party

Handmade Gifts for Teens and Tweens {A Delightfully Handmade Christmas}

Link Party! A Delightfully Handmade Christmas Link Party

"American Born Chinese" by Gene Luen Yang {Delightfully Bookwormish}

Charleston, SC-Boone Hall Plantation {Delightful Adventures}

Our Advent Wreath {Delighfully Nesting}

Mini Distressed Checkerboard {Monday's Cup of Creativity}

Handmade Gift Ideas For Men {A Delightfully Handmade Christmas}

Guest Posting at Me Making Do!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Milk and Cookies Party Ideas {Festive Delights}

"Where The Mountain Meets the Moon" by Grace Lin {Delightfully Bookwormish