Do you love big rings? Or need some ring blanks that you can glue buttons and old clip on earrings to? The Ring Bling line by Plaid has it all. See my guest post here or check it out in person at JoAnn Fabrics. Make a bunch because everyone will want one (I speak from experience, people).
Easter Eggs and Chocolate Chip Cookies
March 26, 2012 By Leave a Comment
The Great Camp Out…
March 24, 2012 By Leave a Comment
My new tent is so sweet. It's a snap to set up too. Not at all like the ol' green canvas tent (or was it blue?) we used to take to Florida on Spring Break when I was a kid. That thing had a million alluminum poles and a few leaks if I remember right. Remember, Nis? I'll never forget the time we found a snake sunning itself in it. Oh, the great outdoors. Cost nothing and always interesting.
It rained and rained from about 4 am onward and the tent never leaked a drop. Probably because my hunkie boyfriend told me to spray it down with water repellent before hand. Snap! He's the brains. Sunday morning after breakfast we walked around McClure's Orchard. I love the shape of the trees. It makes me think of that wild scene in the Wizard of Oz each time I really look at one. You know the scene right, where the tree starts throwing apples at Dorothy?
There is always something to see and ponder at the orchard—like baby lettuce sprouts,
or a crazy tall stack of apple crates still vacationing after Fall,
and Clara the cat who is indeed a boy cat as a matter of fact. It happens.
My favorite thing—colorful bee hives with a few bees buzzing around waiting for blossoms. I guess, we're all just waiting and watching this crazy Spring we've been having.
This row of hives makes me think of a bee apartment complex of sorts which then reminds me of China and all it's cracker box apartments. Someday, I want a couple hives of my own (do I make it sound like children?). I'm lucky I have some friends who let me enjoy theirs until that day comes (the answer to the last question would be…yes).
More plotting and planning for Spring in the background. The Apple Blossom Fest is coming up on April 28th and this year there is even a 5K run. We are going! I will not be running! It's always a good time at McClure's orchard. Apple dumplings, nature and friends around a campfire makes it extra lovely. The orchard is open on the weekends if you are looking for a fun family outing…or just want a really, really good apple dumpling!
Peanut Butter Cookies with Oatmeal
March 21, 2012 By Leave a Comment
I whipped these up just because. Cooking and baking have sorta turned into my relaxation time since my job is creative. I like the simplicity of reading the instructions and making the dish. The cookie recipe is from the current issue of Martha. I love oatmeal and in this recipe you get to toast it before adding it to the batter. Toasted oatmeal?! You had me at hello, Martha.
We ate a few outta the oven and then packed the rest in a container (of which I thought I forgot to send to work the next day, but then got a surprise text saying they were completely consumed by 9:30 AM—this made me laugh). For the first tray I forgot to add the brown sugar to the batter so they were really puffy and dry (those are waiting to be crumbled over vanilla pudding). I've learned that you can't talk on the phone and read a recipe. At least I cant. Here are some search hits for Peanut Butter Oatmeal cookies or you can get the Martha Stewart Living mag with the eggs on the cover.
Egg in a Frame
March 18, 2012 By 1 Comment
Egg in a frame everybody! (and the crowd goes wild) If you know me, you know I learned how to make these in Mrs. Gallahue's Home Ec class in 6th grade. Oh. Yeah. It's pretty much the magic trick of cooking eggs. Just buttah your bread, cut out a shape, throw in a warm lightly greased skillet, crack your egg in the shape and let it cook until the bread is golden brown and the egg is secure, then hold your breath and…….flip it.
As it's cooking you can toast the center piece on the side—this part goes quick so watch it close. I tried a flower and a star for the center of the frame and the star worked better. But, the flower cut out was pretty cute toasted so I slathered some peanut butter on it and stuck an M&M in the middle. Not the traditional sunny side up, but definitely one happy egg.
Lucky Charm Necklace
March 17, 2012 By Leave a Comment
Check out the Plaid Kids Blog for how to make this lucky gem!
You can add any charms or ribbon to make it suit your style.
Happy St. Patrick's day from your pal, Candie.
Hi, I’m Candie. I design jewelry and crafts, author books, teach classes and host television programs. I thrive on simple ideas that anyone can achieve. I also love projects made from unexpected materials that stand the test of time. Join me as I lead a creative life! 
