project {create a home}

A GIVEAWAY SERIES!!!

2011-04-28T09:57:00.001-07:00

Come over to Screaming Meme's and check out our GIVEAWAY series!!!!

Here is a peek at one giveaway!

http://thescreamingmeme.blogspot.com/2011/04/screaming-memes-favorite-things.html

remembering dad

2010-06-03T00:29:00.000-07:00

june is just around the corner...and that means father's day is very close.
how about a head start on our fav father's day finds for good old dad?

our fav golfer gift...the "kiss my putt" marker from tiny tokens designs.

beer for dad? yep...in soap! i love this one...beer soap, the brunnette, from concord soap is perfect! and to answer your question, no you don't smell like beer when you wash with it! $4.75.

and since we know that dad didn't do as good as you will for him...buy a BEER soap & get a lip balm FREE! {a little something for Dad & a little freebie for Mom!} put the code CREATEAHOME in the notes to seller.

cufflinks...we have some uber fun finds!

for the reading dad...a handmade copper bookmark from pearlie girl...mention "pcah blog" in your purchase and receive 15% discount on the bookmark TODAY ONLY.

these geek cufflinks are from crimson king...

a super fun t-shirt for dad...world peace...from rc tees. $20.

a travel humidor for the cigar loving daddy...this is not only gorgeous but useful for a business traveler. wilbur wood offers this deluxe travel humidor.

a deluxe metro bi-fold wallet from sewlutions by AMO for $60. gorgeous combination of suiting wool and rivets, with lots of style and purpose.

laptop guy?? check this handsome and metro laptop sleeve to protect electronic love of his life. fullgive accessories offers this custom leather sanctuary for dad's fav laptop! and talk about deal...fullgive is offering a $20 discount on any item {in the form of a rebate}! mention "pcah blog" at checkout to receive your refund! woo hooo!

and for the dad who has it all...a beer cozy for that #1 dad by knitrovert for $14...mention PCAH in your buy and get free shipping!!!

go ahead...get going on dad's gifts! you have a great start here!!!

danyele @ a thorn among roses

winner of the lip balm...

2010-05-26T03:11:00.000-07:00

and the winner of the lip balm giveaway is...

i am kinda hungry now after thinking about blueberry cheesecake and creme brulee. i think i'll have a little lip balm myself!

congrats to sara...and don't forget to keep looking around...there's more giveaways and fun advice coming your way soon!!

danyele @ a thorn among roses

making the best blueberry cheesecake...

2010-05-26T00:00:00.000-07:00

straight from sheknows.com...the very best tips for making the best blueberry cheesecake. we just had to share them with you!!!
"Every cake deserves its own special day and May is the month for blueberry cheesecake to have its moment. May 26 is National Blueberry Cheesecake Day, giving you just one more reason to indulge in a creamy blueberry dessert. And since blueberries are considered one of the healthiest fruits, you can treat yourself to a luscious slice of blueberry cheesecake without feeling all that guilty. Here are some cheesecake tips and recipes to help you celebrate National Blueberry Cheesecake Day.

CHEESECAKE TIP #1: CHOOSE THE BEST CHEESE
The most common cheeses to use for most cheesecakes are cream cheese or ricotta cheese. Cream cheese will give you a denser cake as compared to ricotta. Other fresh creamy cheeses, such as mascarpone, cottage cheese and goat cheese can also be used. For the most luscious mouth-feel, use a full-fat cheese. And if you must reduce the calories, substitute only half of the full-fat cheese with a low-fat variety.

CHEESECAKE TIP #2: START WITH ROOM TEMPERATURE INGREDIENTS
Before you begin making the cheesecake filling, make sure all of the ingredients are at room temperature. This is especially important for cream cheese – it should be soft so it blends easily and you don’t end up with lumps in the filling.

CHEESECAKE TIP #3: DON’T OVER BEAT
Over-mixing the filling can lead to cracks in the finished cheesecake. Always start by beating the cheese by itself in the bowl before adding any other ingredients. Make sure the cheese is extra creamy and lump-free. Once you add the remaining ingredients, only mix until just blended.

CHEESECAKE TIP #4: USE FRESH BLUEBERRIES
If you are adding blueberries to your filling, fresh blueberries are your best choice. Fresh blueberries are preferred over frozen because frozen blueberries will have more liquid in them, which can water down the filling. If you do use frozen blueberries, make sure they are thawed, drained and dried very well.

CHEESECAKE TIP #5: BAKE BUT DON’T BREAK
Perfect cheesecakes are crack-free. You can achieve this by using a spring form pan, baking cheesecake in a water bath, and baking it slow. A spring form pan allows you to easily remove the sides of the pan, no unmolding necessary. A water bath helps ensure even baking and less chance of cracks. Baking a cheesecake slowly and at a consistent temperature will make a much creamier and uniform cheesecake.

CHEESECAKE TIP #6: DON’T OVER BAKE
Cheesecakes will continue to bake after they are removed from the oven, and baking too long will lead to cracks. Remove cheesecake from the oven when the middle is still just a bit jiggly. It will continue to set up as it cools.

CHEESECAKE TIP #7: COOL AND CHILL
Proper cooling is an essential part of baking a perfect cheesecake. When you take cheesecake out of the oven, remove it from the water bath and run a knife around the edge of the cake to release the filling from the sides. As the cheesecake cools, it will shrink and if it isn’t released from the pan, it will crack. Also, once cool enough, place cheesecake in the refrigerator to chill for a few hours to completely set up. If possible, make your cheesecake the day before you plan to serve it."

sheknows.com has great tips...thanks to them for these!

danyele @ a thorn among roses

mmmm...cheesecake! and another giveaway!!!

2010-05-25T00:06:00.000-07:00

one of the joys of being an american is that we know how to celebrate...and we eat our feelings!

may 25th is national blueberry cheesecake day! i know, right? we have a whole day honoring blueberry cheesecake! so go ahead and make some up!!

love to bake...well, HERE's your tasty recipe to celebrate the day from she knows!

you say you don't want the calories...well, have we got a surprise for you!!! take a look at these fab and calorie free ways to celebrate all year long!

jewelry that adds to the outfit, but not to the waist!
earrings that are delish...and super cute from sinner's sweets.

a sweet little mouse charm...from sweetie bird's for $4.

get the smell throughout the whole house...and some cuteness to boot from this candle! from pookaberry for $5...but we are offering it as a FREEBIE giveaway!!! head over to pookaberry candles and tell me one thing you can't live without...winner chosen at random at midnight EST.

happy blueberry cheesecake day!!!
danyele @ a thorn among roses

lip balm giveaway!!!!

2010-05-24T00:28:00.000-07:00

blueberry cheesecake day is tomorrow and you have to be ready...and we are here to help with a giveaway!
who can't fall in total love with lipbalm...i mean, you get the taste, no calories!

passion mood potions has some awesome blueberry cheesecake lip balm for $3!!
oh so you say you want some blueberry lip balm for free?? well, we can do that for you today!!!!
here's how...enter by simply going to passion mood potions and tell me in a comment what your fav thing is and why...

easy peasy...so get going!

danyele @ a thorn among roses

free summer family fun

2010-05-21T00:43:00.000-07:00

with summer just around the corner, it's time to start planning some fun times...and those times have to be budget friendly. here are a few great finds for free summer fun...

many large theater chains have free movie times for families and kids throughout the summer. and it's super easy to find...head to the theater closest to you {{here's regal's site} for your showing dates, times and all the fun, free details!!!

bowling anyone? 2 games free each day of the summer per kid when you sign up at kids bowl free.

how about some hand-on fun building stuff? lowes offers free clinics for kiddos most saturday's at 10am...and it's building fun stuff like race cars and catapults!!! you have to register prior HERE but it's super fun...and free! it builds kids confidence and they build something fun too!

home depot offers the same deal...between 9 and noon on the first saturday of the month. check out home depot for more info.

add some arts and culture...target stores offer target free days at many museums around the country...take a look HERE for places near you.

so get on out there and have some good, old fashioned FREE fun!!!

danyele @ a thorn among roses

{Flea Market Finds}

2010-05-14T00:00:00.000-07:00

With a good Flea Market season finally here, I've started compiling a list of things to look for. Have you ever been to the Flea Market and found something you fell in love with but had NO IDEA what to do with it? It happens to me all of the time and I usually end up leaving my beloved piece behind since I can't find a purpose for it under pressure.

So, I thought I would share a few cool uses for flea market finds I found online that I thought were great and may help you start compiling a list of your own...

And old banister rail as a mail sorter...

Love this! Old jump ropes as seat cushion ties...

Beautiful molding as a display shelf....

an old rustic mantle as a headboard....

Hope you enjoyed! You can find more cool & creative ideas here!

Kacey

picky eaters welcome here

2010-05-11T00:03:00.000-07:00

it's hard when you have to feed picky eaters...when every meal is a battle and there seems to be tears when it's all suppose to just be fun. here's a few really fun tips to make that picky eater a little happier...and hopefully, you too!

start off with making meal times fun instead of dreaded. super fun eating time for the kiddos...why not??!!

how about making the ordinary extraordinary...and using fun cutlery is a great way to do that!
trembibi has this awesome little set...and who doesn't want flatware that smiles back!! $24

i love this idea from zak.com...a nibble tray with detachable lid! it has 3 dipping compartments in the "leaves" that stay cool to hold all those different dips that picky eaters love. it's even a great idea for those restaurant trips for the kiddos!

and since it's not all about the containers and about presentation, those eaters still need nutrition. use what that eater will eat and put it in everything...for sofia, it was sweet baby ray's bbq sauce. for some it's cereal.

golden fish sticks...with frosted flakes.

a hamburger with a face...

and my fav...mini shepherd pies with a smile

happy eating!!!
danyele @ a thorn among roses

tuesday's winners...

2010-05-10T05:26:00.000-07:00

and the winners are...

meaghan at meg and the boys!!

ash at shades of blue and green!!!!

and it was all in honor of a sweet little girl named tuesday. thanks for helping kick cancers butt!

winners picked by using random.org.

danyele @ a thorn among roses

another giveaway for tuesday???

2010-05-05T00:23:00.000-07:00

it's a new day...and that means a little more fun to giveaway and offer to you...and to kick cancer's booty!
{{found this on zazzle...and i had to laugh}}

so back to my not so immature mind...
you say you loved that sarah jane print yesterday? well, today is another fab find from sarah jane studios...a hand made 4x6 print...i call 3 bear chairs, girlie style.

so precious...and fab for any little girls room or in a play room! it's just, well, girlie!!!

oh you are interested in winning? fab...it's easy peasy! just enter!!
simply leave a comment here and then be sure to donate $1 to the Tuesday Fiona Whitt Foundation, which benefits Whatchagonnado.org, started by tuesday's parents.

so go here and donate your dollar...

and then go here and look at all the other fab auctions that you can enter as well.

danyele @ a thorn among roses

tuesday's blog party

2010-05-04T10:19:00.000-07:00

it's time to celebrate...time to remember...time to take some action.

tuesday fiona whitt was this precious little twin girlie who i loved in blogland...and she lost her battle with cancer two years ago. blogland came alive with prayers, support and action for the whitt family. and in that action, the tuesday fiona whitt foundation was born to fight that stinking pediatric cancer.

so now, every year...for the last 2 years...there's a tuesday blog party! and here at PCAH we are jumping on the bandwagon to support pediatric cancer and little miss tuesday's fam.

here's how it works...
we are offering this fab, hand made pieces of art from sarah jane studios...
a gorgeous 8x10, hand signed print, april
{and then look around sarah jane's stuff...it's pretty awesome}

oh you are interested in winning? fab...it's easy peasy! just enter!!
simply leave a comment land then be sure to donate $1 to the Tuesday Fiona Whitt Foundation, which benefits Whatchagonnado.org, started by tuesday's parents.

so go here and donate your dollar...

and then go here and look at all the other fab auctions that you can enter as well.

...and let's kick pediatric cancer's butt. please.

danyele @ a thorn among roses

mother's day....ahhhh

2010-04-30T07:29:00.000-07:00

i love the thought of mother's day...it's better than my birthday and i happened to find a few precious ditties on etsy that are too precious to not pass on!!

what about custom cut silhouette portraits of your kiddos for the wall??? these are to die for! custom made, framed and ready for you from pretty faces for only $45.

...but since you are a pcah reader, jackie will offer a 20% discount to you. all you have to do is 20% send jackie a note prior to purchase she will set up a custom listing just for you!!!

persnickety pelican has something cute...while still being snazzy and fun! potholders...and honestly, mine are almost non-existant...$16 resolves it all!

i love me some coffee...any time of the day and this coffee cozy is cute and useful! pick your own bead and everything! $10

i'm a silhouette love moment...and why not a fab pillow for the master bedroom of the whole fam? soooo cute! from little pink orchid for $60....and free shipping if you mention the pcah blog in your order!

and because i don't pamper myself with facials, why not some super cute face cloths that make each day a little more special? these lemon line crochet face cloths from little miss frilly and are only $6.

and if all else fails and you don't get your goodies from the kiddos and hubs, buy it yourself!

danyele @ a thorn among roses

eating healthier

2010-04-26T07:05:00.000-07:00

we all want to make better choices when we dine out...but it's so hard.

i pull up to drive thru and i look at the prices and i just go cheap bc i honestly don't have enough good info to make good choices.

enter healthy dining finder...this site is pretty awesome.

they offer nutrition services, basic nutrition information and the criteria in which they get their information.

honestly, it's a fairly good way to learn quickly about what you can grab on the way out the door.
i searched by zip code and dollar amount and found a few items i hadn't thought of before that were actually good choices.

and if you are interested, you can sign up for newsletter, read the blog and catch up on new things now available.

on relish, i found some fast food drive thru choices that will make you smile:

Here are just a few lunch choices in the 300 to 400 calorie range:

Burger King® BK Veggie without mayo
McDonald's® kid's hamburger with sliced apples without dip
Burger King® TENDERGRILL Chicken Sandwich without sauce
Smoothie King® 20 oz. Angel Food or Light & Fluffy
Wendy’s® Caesar Chicken Salad with 1 packet Caesar dressing and croutons
KFC® Tender Roast® Sandwich or Honey BBQ
McDonald's® Fruit & Walnut snack and low-fat milk
McDonald's® Asian Salad with grilled chicken and low-fat sesame ginger dressing
Wendy's® Chili (large) with Cheddar cheese, no crackers
Panera® kid's Deli Ham (or Turkey or Roast Beef) without cheese and fruit cup

Need a few more calories? These options add up to 500 to 600 calories each:

Chick-Fil-A® Chargrilled Chicken Sandwich, Carrot & Raisin Salad and fruit cup
12" Subway® Turkey Breast, Ham, Roast Beef, Club® with low-fat mayonnaise
KFC® Tender Roast Chicken sandwich without sauce, corn on the cob (small) and BBQ baked beans
Wendy’s® Plain Baked Potato topped with small chili
Boston Market® quarter roasted white chicken (no skin or wing), green beans, steamed vegetables and new potatoes
Fazoli's® small Spaghetti with tomato or meat sauce and breadstick
KFC® Tender Roast chicken sandwich (without sauce), small corn on the cob and BBQ baked beans

well, there are a few choices out there, but education is the key...read up and then make good choices. i know i am!

danyele @ a thorn among roses

free coffee

2010-04-13T11:47:00.000-07:00

wanna celebrate tax day instead of loathing it? well grab a reusable coffee mug and head to starbucks on april 15th...and you will be greeted with some free java!

oh yeah, baby! it's true...check their site HERE!

i'm there...are you?? and hey, it's to bring awareness of reuse too, so everyone wins...i mean, except those of you who don't go!!!

danyele @ a thorn among roses

super duper food fun!!!

2010-04-04T00:27:00.000-07:00

why not have a little food fun all over your house...and not just in your belly?!!

a yummy plate of donuts on your fridge is way less than 4 in your hand...and that's all good for me!!! these polymer clay magnetic sugar babies are handcrafted by e marie creations and will set you back less than the real thing!!!

even with the online recipe databases, there's nothing like a good old fashioned recipe card. and how will you organize them? with these uber fab recipe cards and tabs! i am in love with these and it sure does put my ugly index cards to shame!!! these are handmade, hand cut and hand drawn from oneCANOEtwo.

you don't cook...do you sew? i love this little pin cushion from chrissy poo two. it's a fun sushi platter. i mean, felt food is fun...and this is for you to play with! woo hooo!

danyele @ a thorn among roses

tea in all it's glory...

2010-04-02T00:22:00.000-07:00

hot tea...doesn't that sound relaxing? well, we have started to drink quite a bit of it around our house this last year.

i found red leaf tea online and was totally intrigues by the options they have available!
this little kiss of joy is champagne infused tea...can you say delish?

white pomegranate...oh my! doesn't that just sound like heaven?

an herbal tea is what you like? well, how about this raspberry nectar tea?

and not only are their teas good, they have some super fun things too...how about refillable muslin tea bags? green and cute to boot.

for project{create a home} readers, red leaf tea is offering a free champagne infused tea {or same price substitute} for FREE when you spend $15 in their store excluding shipping. simply note you are a PCAH reader in your comments to receive the freebie!

danyele @ a thorn among roses

it's sunny outside...let's get gardening!

2010-03-29T10:39:00.000-07:00

it's finally spring...the yard is greening up and flowers are starting to show themselves. when i look outside, i see some remnants of winter...and the yard needs a refresher!

here's a few tips on what to do now...at the beginning of spring, in your yard.

clean up...by raking away the dead leaves and stems and branches leftover from the fall and winter.

patch...reseed and patch bare spots in the yard.

move 'em out...it's the perfect time of year to move your shrubs around before the leaves start to bud.

don't get too overzealous...don't cut shrubs back and move any winter mulch away until the temperatures are stable and warmer.

cut back any perennials that have dead foliage on them from the winter.

have a rose? prune those bushes and vines back before they start to leaf out.

no roses, but a dog? it's been a long winter...grab the pooper scooper and de-fertilize the yard before the playing outside begins.

and...schedule or do your routine mower maintenance. or, make sure to call the neighborhood lawn boy to get on schedule!

happy spring!

danyele @ a thorn among roses

femme winner is...

2010-03-29T05:46:00.000-07:00

the winner of the femme giveaway is...
{insert drumroll here}

lindsy from our lives in a nutshell! congrats!

and a specials thanks to our fab jewelry designer too, teresa deleen, who dreams up and makes all of the beautiful pieces!
danyele @ a thorn among roses

chicken madeira, please!!!

2010-03-25T00:30:00.000-07:00

i have some major cheesecake factory love...and chicken madeira from there is more than
FAB-U-LOUS!

so i found a knock off recipe and i made it...and boy was it good!!!

i substituted port wine for the madeira wine, so i guess it was really port wine chicken.

the recipe is HERE...so go and take a look. for now, here are the ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
8 asparagus spears
4 slices mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cups fresh mushrooms, sliced (I used baby bella)
3 cups madeira wine
2 cups beef stock
1 tablespoon butter
1/4 cup cornstarch (optional)
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

a few things...

the sauce never really did thicken up, but was still delicious. i would definitely take the advice of adding the cornstarch to the sauce to thicken it up!

the sauce makes enough for at least 3 recipes of chicken. i made 3 extra chicken breasts and still had enough remaining sauce for another meal. you probably could cut the sauce recipe in half and not be too wasteful.

i made the asparagus my way with steaming it using water and mostly italian dressing. it was the perfect taste for the dish. yummy!

love it...the kids and hubs loved it! it's a new fav around our place...so get cooking!

danyele @ a thorn among roses

dressing up for easter

2010-03-23T00:31:00.000-07:00

there's some super great deals out there for the easter dressing up that is to be done very soon! so here's a few finds that will get you and fam started...

the kids...

the children's place has some of the cutest clothes on the planet...well made, inexpensive and adorable. and, they almost always run sales and give coupons to make things even easier on parents! check out these super cute options from the dressy collection...starting at just $10!!

for the preppy little guy...

and for a little more formal...seriously check out those shoes!!!

for the girlies in your life, there's all kinds of ruffles and bright colors to satisfy them and you!

and the standby, all-white easter outfit with bonnet...

we don't want to leave you out, ladies, so please get yourself a little something too!!!

or how about this little ditty...saucy!!! from MandyH8800...

or this floral baby doll beauty! from malam...and for project readers, free shipping {worldwide} through april 4th entering the code "http://projectcreateahome.blogspot.com" in the notes to seller.

well, go on now, go shopping and find some deals!!!

danyele @ a thorn among roses

...winner from frosted crossbones

2010-03-22T15:09:00.000-07:00

congrats to abby who is the winner of the frosted crossbones giveaway from last week!

abby gets to pick anything from the shop...woo hoo!

stay tuned for a ton more giveaways here at project{create a home}

femme....giveaway!!!!

2010-03-22T00:17:00.000-07:00

original design...and beauty in a fab necklace too!!! and miss teresa deleen has offered this fabulous handcrafted...and first first original piece...to you, project{create a home} readers for a fab giveaway!!!

yes...i did say FREE!! and just for you!

here's her words on how this piece came about...

"I’m thrilled to introduce my first line of original designs named ‘Femme’. These pieces were inspired by the divine lines of the female form, the curves and the valleys, the dimples and the swells. The pieces were made to suggest the flow of a woman’s body…to be subtle. I designed these pieces while twirling in my studio with my muse and when I sat with pencil to paper, these are the first lines that flowed. I loved them and stopped sketching straight away so as not to fog my vision. I dropped all other projects I was working on to create this piece that was pouring out of me. It was a delicious experience, one I hope will return often. I carved, I sanded, I fired, I cleaned, I oxidized, I tumbled, I polished……I smiled!

I name all of my pieces in French. ‘Femme’ means ‘feminine’ in French and it describes the piece perfectly.

you are interested in winning this precious "femme" piece? well it's simple...

first, go to teresa deleen's studio shop HERE and take a look around. tell me in a comment what your favorite piece is and why...making sure i can get ahold of you if you win with an email addy.

if you want an additional entry...do any or all of these{leaving seperate comments for each}:

become a follower of project{create a home}

tweet the giveaway...with a link to this post

giveaway ends 3/25 at midnight EST. winner will be picked using random.org!

danyele @ a thorn among roses

there's still time to enter the free giveaway!!!!

2010-03-18T11:36:00.000-07:00

there is a fab new shop on etsy that i totally stumbled up on...and i'm def in love!!! it's called frosted crossbones and it's full of uber delish and fun crafty things. my fav's are def the cuff links...they are all foodie cufflinks and super duper fun!http://www.etsy.com/shop/FrostedCrossbones

do you not want to eat these strawberry cheesecake cufflinks?? what a great convo starter!!

i know what you are thinking...why is is just for my man? well, it's not! she's got all kinds of super cute digs for us ladies too!!!

i have to say, these french fry earrings make me smile a little...

and the reese's, well, i just uber love them too!!!

or cuppa joes...now that's totally me!!!

we are giving away an item of choice from frosted crossbones today...oh, and it's super simple to be the winner!!!

head over to frosted crossbones and look around. come back here and tell me what your fav item is...or what you would like to see...or well, anything about the shop! leave it in a comment and you are entered!!!

want another entry? well, we can do that! become a follower of project{create a home} and you get another entry...leave an additional comment saying just that!!

EXTENDED!!!!!!!!

giveaway runs through MARCH 19th...so get your entries in! winner will be chosen using random.org. entries will close at midnight MARCH 19 EST.

oh and want a little more? we are in a giving mood today! for the person who hits the 100th "heart" to frosted crossbones on etsy, wins a set of fat burger cufflinks! i know...wow! so go to her shop, HERE and heart her!!! she's at 55 now!!!

danyele @ a thorn among roses

2010-03-16T00:55:00.000-07:00

Dogs are a gift to bring the family closer...They have a way of uniting a family and making us smile!

Why not, make their tails wag by making a special treat!

Meet Emily {Emmers}, Our Golden Retriever! She loves when we make special treats...She is an easy dog to cook for ;)...She like fresh spinach and bananas...She LOVES Emmer's Gluten Free Cookies, even more!

It is quite easy and a way to bring the family together in the kitchen...I want to share a gluten free treat that our dog, Emmers loves!

Emmer's Gluten Free Cookies

1 cup GF Oats
1/3 cup powdered milk
1/4 cup olive oil

Mix those together....

Add 1 can chicken broth {or you can use your ckn stock}

Mix broth in....Let sit for 5 or so minutes for that oats to soak up the liquid...

Add 1 cup of instant potatoes and 1 beaten egg...Mix it all together...
Roll out to a 1/4 inch thickness...You can make them into shapes or cut into squares...

Bake @ 250 for an hour and a half...Or until dried and crunchy...

This is a fun recipe that the WHOLE family will love to make...

I told you she loves spinach! :) Come over to Screaming Meme and visit Emmers and her sister, Bella! They love visitors!

Screaming Meme is a decorating blog that gives easy and fun tips to to spruce up your place!
www.thescreamingmeme.blogspot.com

yummy cufflinks...and for free???

2010-03-15T00:08:00.000-07:00

do you not want to eat these strawberry cheesecake cufflinks?? what a great convo starter!!

i know what you are thinking...why is is just for my man? well, it's not! she's got all kinds of super cute digs for us ladies too!!!

i have to say, these french fry earrings make me smile a little...

and the reese's, well, i just uber love them too!!!

or cuppa joes...now that's totally me!!!

we are giving away an item of choice from frosted crossbones today...oh, and it's super simple to be the winner!!!

want another entry? well, we can do that! become a follower of project{create a home} and you get another entry...leave an additional comment saying just that!!

giveaway runs through wednesday march 17...so get your entries in! winner will be chosen using random.org. entries will close at midnight march 17 EST.

danyele @ a thorn among roses

irish food...yummo

2010-03-15T00:05:00.000-07:00

a nice little irish menu for the irish at heart...

start out with a redo on the irish staple, colcannon. it's colcannon chowder...

{and does the photo not just make your mouth water...it should. it's from the AP}

irish soda bread...goes perfect with the chowder and is ever so delicious!!!

and a quick and yummy little irish apple cake for dessert...yum!

{recipe HERE}

happy st. pat's cooking!

danyele @ a thorn among roses

catch that leprechaun!

2010-03-13T00:06:00.000-08:00

those little leprechauns are tricky...and with all the gold at stake, its time for a leprechaun trap!!

family fun had some super cute ideas.

the old "hat pit trap" just might do the job.

if your leprechaun is a little smarter, you might have to move along to the rainbow cage drop!

...and if all else fails, give the old "trap door trick" a run!

good luck...and don't forget to share the gold if you find any!!!

take a look at instructions for making these little traps HERE.

danyele @ a thorn among roses

winner!! winner!!!

2010-03-12T04:57:00.000-08:00

oh...she is precious isn't she??? and that's what the winner of cutsom made tutu and fairy wings set will be getting! oh my word, i can't stand it!!!

and the winner is...{selected with random.org} number 9!!!

pam from you're gonna miss this!

and if you still want one of these super precious ditties, head over to mia bambina couture and grab some adorable things for the little girlies in your life!!!

thanks for playing along ladies!!! oh, did i mention we have another fab giveaway coming up next week? yep, don't forget to come on by!!!

danyele @ a thorn among roses

{A Refreshed Crafting Spirit}

2010-03-11T00:02:00.000-08:00

With Spring time officially right around the corner I'm feeling a sense of renewal coming on. I need to do a lot of Spring cleaning - BUT - to get me through I am going to put some fun things on the good ole "To Do" list!

I thought I would share a few contenders I've come across with you....

I have a hanky collection and this looks like a lovely use for them....sweet little pillows...

Are these booties not the most precious little things ever? Mmmm!

We are not losing any teeth yet, but I think these little lovies are the perfect place to put those lost teeth who are waiting for the Toothy Fairy...

If you would like to add any of these fun projects to your "Spring Cleaning" list you can get all of the details, here, here, and here. Or just visit Martha directly for loads of other fun options!

rocking the red pump, baby

2010-03-10T14:25:00.001-08:00

you might ask why the red pump? well, it's simple...it's all about awareness and looking good at the same time!!!

today is national women and girls HIV?AIDS awareness day...and for good reason too!!!

did you know that every 35 minutes a woman in the US is diagnosed with AIDS??

that is why we rock the red pump...and rock it hard!!!

we love "rock the red pump" for all they do to bring awareness to women and girls!

because silence brings about stupidity...and ladies, we don't need any of that!

so rock your red pump today...we are! {and rocking a very awesome red pump that was a major bargain find...oh yeah...$3!!!}

danyele @ a thorn among roses

custom made girlie goodness

2010-03-08T00:00:00.000-08:00

mia bambina couture is one of our fav etsy shops here at project...her things are sweet and delicate, just like the little girlies who wear them!

every little girl loves a fairy tutu...and so that's just we will are going to offer them!
a SET of fluffy fairy goodness is up for grabs...custom made from mia bambina couture is a petal tutu with mathcing fairy wings for that princess of yours.

what do you need to do to be entered? it's simple...there are options!

head to mia bambina couture's shop and take a look around. tell me what you love or what you want to see more of or even what your fav item is in the shop. come back here and comment, making sure to leave a way to contact you via email if you win.

oh, you want another option? ok...become a follower of project{create a home} and that will get you another entry. {leave an additional comment saying "i'm a follower}

sound good? well, go on now! head over and take a look around. giveaway runs through midnight EST on wednesday, march 10. the winner will be picked by random.org and posted on thursday, march 11.

happy tutu-iung!

danyele @ a thorn among roses

At Home Vacation?

2010-03-05T00:02:00.000-08:00

Vacation @ Home!

So many of us don't have extra money to spend on hotels, airfare, foods or simply gas!

I think we should think "inside the box"...I love having vacations at home...You need to be able to let go and relax...No laundry, No huge meals to have to clean up after...You have to be able to let all the little things go in order to really enjoy the experience....

Here are some "Screaming Good Ideas":

Hire a maid service to come in and wash dishes, make beds, straighten bathrooms, laundry, vacuum etc...It will feel more like a vacation...:) And if you can make a deal with your maid service...have them come in before the vacation starts and do a deep clean...A lot of maid services would be more than happy to work out something for every budget...If you can't afford that...Think about a responsible teenager...:) They always need extra money! {Think about buying chocolate to have the maid put on everyone's pillow...I know...I'm detail oriented;)}

Order in food...Or pick it up...Stock up on snacks that you normally wouldn't eat...Ice Cream, expensive cookies and cupcakes from a local bakery...You are on Vaca, right? ;)

Have a lot of games, magazines, and books to read...If you have kids, make sure to really get down there and PLAY with them...All your attention on them...not the laundry, dishes and what's for dinner...

Get your camera ready...Take a lot of photos...They will mean so much to you down the road!

Rent a lot of movies and a few video games for the kids or "big kids" ;)

Think about hiring a massage therapist to come in and do a chair massage or a full body massage...:)

Check out local hot spots or places you all have never had time to visit...It is fun to find places that you never heard of!

Get fun toiletries...Shampoos, conditioners, bubble bath...Make it like a fancy hotel...Have towels laid out and ready for some splish splash! :)

Think about outdoor games too! Volleyball, horseshoes, rally games, swimming, or laying in a new hammock...:)
OR you could swap houses with a friend or family member...:)

I hope that I have opened your eyes to looking at your home differently...It is important to have fun and be able to relax...even at home!

Please stop by and visit me over @ Screaming Meme's! http://www.thescreamingmeme.blogspot.com/

fab finds for you!!!

2010-03-02T18:31:00.000-08:00

it's time to look around for a few little cute things for...you!

a little bling never disappoints...this hand hammered disc pendant is so gorgeous and simple yet elegant! from karina grace designer jewelry for only $34.

it's coming quickly upon spring and a new coin purse is just what the doctor ordered for getting over the long winter blues! only $23 from oktak.

for those of you with kiddos...these note cards from sara tams are super fab! i love them so much. the silhouettes are stunning and offered in a variety of well, about anything gorgeous! water bottles, calling cards, stickers, and other custom made items are just part of the deal at both of her websites too! so get on over to HERE.

a super cute mini journal for you to jot down your thoughts or to-do's. if i have to have a list, i want a pretty one for sure. and this rhubarb bird cage mini journal from a punkin card company totally fits the bill...and for only $6!

who doesn't need a little pampering? start off with a sensational cocoa butter hand scrub and moisturizer from anayansi at bella honey body care! and all that for a mere $3 {normally $4, but mention PCAH and you get the $1 off deal}!

i asked anayansi how she got started? turns out it was for fun...and then her fam and friends loved the products! before she knew it, she stared bellahoney body care.

her scrubs are not buried in oils as they are made with shea butter or cocoa butter which is GREAT for the skin!

take her up on that $1 off offer...i'm sure you won't be disappointed! bella honey body care offers many other custom made items as well.

who doesn't want a more than fab new clutch??? this amazing ruffle clutch is to die for from lisa spagnolo...$54...mention PCAH at checkout in your comments, and you get a super fab deal of 20% off!!

who doesn't love a good cupcake? well, then there's almost nothing better than a cupcake shirt bc we all know that cupcakes are cool! this super cute shirt from dressing on the side is cute and only $21...mention PCAH in your order and you can get $5 off your purchase!! that's even better!

i happen to be a major coffee-holic and i refuse to go to treatment...so for those you of java lovers, this shirt is a must have! you guessed it...from dressing on the side for $21...but with the mention of PCAH, don't forget you get the $5 off bargain!

danyele @ a thorn among roses

3 fab giveaways coming...

2010-03-01T00:30:00.000-08:00

there are 3 super fab giveaways coming to project{create a home}...so stay tuned!!!

you def won't wanna miss them!

march 8th and march 15th and march 20th are the dates!!!

spring fling...baby girls!

2010-02-26T00:00:00.000-08:00

the baby girls in our lives should look as precious as they are sweet!

dressing up those precious peas is too much fun...so here's some super fab finds for spring for our little peas!

well, i think the picture says pretty much everything...a precious pea dressed in a little bunny tutu and bunny ears headband is just about as cute as it gets. the fab set is $28.50 from laurie's tutu boutique or on her website HERE.

laurie also has more gorgeous things available on her website HERE...like this totally gorgeous angel floral halo for only $12.50! i see portraits in this precious halo!

caterpillars are a sign of spring, right? and i know your little girlie munchkins in your life would love these cuties for their hair!!! one of our fav little shops, mia bambina couture, has these super cute caterpillar hair clippies! and can i just say, "oh my word"!!

there is some uber ruffle-ness going on in this little princess bag! the color and the patterns just shout out spring and your little darlings will jump for joy when they see this perfect easter gift as their basket! this ruffle drawstring purse is handmade by polliwog designs on etsy. and because she is so fab, she is offering PCAH readers a 10% discount on any purchases {that will be refunded through paypal after the transaction is complete}. make sure to mention you came from PCAH and the feature in your comments to get the discount! you want something custom made? see www.polliwogdesigns.com for more options. and you want more deals... you are so needy! not really...but become a fan on facebook of polliwog designs and get new discounts and sales all the time!

are you feeling the love in that bag or what? well, here's what got it all started...

"After having my 3rd daughter in November 2009 (she's 3 months old now!)... I decided I was not going back to work for a while... Daycare costs are too high, and I need to be with my girls. Thankfully, my husband has a decent job and we were able to swing it... barely.

I started Polliwog Designs in January, so pretty new! Polliwog is my baby's nickname (her name is Molly). Basically, I needed to make a little extra income, and be able to stay with my angels... VOILA!

I can honestly say that my mental health has NEVER been better. I really, truly LOVE making everything I do. I have so many idea's and things I still want to do... I have drawings and lists ALL over the place... my house is SUCH a MESS! I have boxes and boxes of supplies, half completed projects... all over the place. It's like... my brain just doesn't know what to do... CRAFTAPALOOZA ADD!!!"

can you say precious??? well, these ostrich puff feathers and bow headband from the pampered princess shout precious...and shout it loud! oh my word! and with easter being just around the corner, your precious baby girl peas MUST have this headband. my sofia just might be sporting one for sure! are you ready for this...they are only $8.99!! and if pink isn't your color, look around, there's a whole lot more where this one came from!

danyele @ a thorn among roses

spring fling...boys!!!!

2010-02-25T13:10:00.000-08:00

for those of you who say that there are only cute little girl things out there...i say look around!

does your little bean have a pacifier? well he definitely needs this adorable stripes pacifier clip by brooks boutique for only $4! mention "createahome" in your comments when checking out and save 20% through 3/10!!! make sure it matches his new shoes and his easter outfit, but definitely don't forget to get one!

i just might have to get my nephews these precious hand painted wooden names for their rooms from va da velle for only $9.

or this super soft mommy and me decorative pillow also from va da velle for $20. it makes my heart swell with joy!

i know...right? did you see the uber houndstooth? if these don't shout "my boy is too cute", then i don't know what does! these baby boy loafers are from ivory and moss and are a great buy at $24...and if you mention PCAH in your comments when ordering, you save 20%!

if your little guy is in the 'losing the teeth' phase, this adorable custom made tooth fairy felt pillow is your perfect gift!!! it's personalized just for your little guy and there's a sweet little pouch for holding that lost tooth! and happy felties shop does all that fun goodness for $20...but for PCAH readers, grab a $5 off option by commenting at check out that you saw the feature at PCAH! how happy will your little guy be...and how much easier is it to get that stinking tooth for you?!

with 4 girlies in this house, i love getting super fab things for my 3 nephews...and i'm saying a big hooray to these super fab tie shirts for your itsy bitsy baby boy! i mean, they are seriously adorable and well, look at them...you'll fall in love! we choose joy is the fab creator of these little sweeties...and for PCAH readers, she is offering $2 shipping no matter how many one-z's you order. take advantage...a handsome boy can not have too many!!

danyele @ a thorn among roses

2010-02-25T00:25:00.000-08:00

there are 2 super fab giveaways coming to project{create a home}...so stay tuned!!!

you def won't wanna miss them!

march 8th and march 15th are the dates!!!

st pat's fun

2010-02-24T00:50:00.000-08:00

as st. patrick's day approaches, i start feeling my irish roots! i found some super cute little tidbits that would def make the irish in you and me, be a little more fun!

send me along some irish coffee, please! and i would love it in these awesome irish tall coffee glasses. so cute. from amazon and home essentials.

want a shot? these celtic clauddaugh shot glasses are cute for all year long! from amazon.

and when you're having your coffee, or beer or shots, you need these personalized pub coasters.

for the family...some homemade irish goodies.

i love these little cupcakes pops...i found them {with directions} HERE and i just have to make them for the girlies! aren't they just precious!?

no one will ever expect this one...okay, it's tacky, but i think it's a little hilarious too! a toilet seat sock! ok, i would def never put this in my house, but i would def give it for a fun gift!

An Old Irish Blessing

May love and laughter light your days,

and warm your heart and home.

May good and faithful friends be yours,

wherever you may roam.

May peace and plenty bless your world

with joy that long endures.

May all life's passing seasons

bring the best to you and yours!

danyele @ a thorn among roses

Screaming Meme's Easy Organizing Ideas

2010-02-16T08:02:00.000-08:00

I love to organize...Well, once I push myself to do it :)...Why do I do that? I think a lot of us are like that. We have so many things we want to do and so little time...Or we have the time, but we overwhelm ourselves with the details...This year, I want it to be different...I don't want to overwhelm myself with the details or put too much on my plate...I want to start one thing at a time and see if that is the key to getting it done...

I think having a plan is the key to anything...I decided that I am going to devote 5 minutes each day to work on one area...until that area is done. We can all find 5 minutes in the day, right?

You found 5 minutes to pop over to this wonderful blog, right? {And thank you so much for that :)}

I always use 3 shopping bags...One for trash, One for charity, and one for things that go in the other room...You simply fill the bags with your jUnK...When the 5 minutes is up you throw the trash away...You put the charity bag in a large bag and place it in the trunk of your car. {Everyday you go out and place another charity bag in that trash bag until it is full...Then you donate it ASAP...}

The stuff in the "other room" bag...I would put it in another large bag and place it in the closet of the room it belongs...until you get to that room...How easy is that?

I want to personally welcome you over to my main squeeze...The Screaming Meme Blog...She's a real kick! And I have a comical NEW blog about my "normal" family...INSANELY going gluten free...This Family's Gone Cracker's...It is sure to leave you in stitches...:)

www.thisfamilysgonecrackers.blogspot.com

www.thescreamingmeme.blogspot.com

Glad to be back in Blogland~

Screaming Meme

cool keys

2010-02-15T00:34:00.000-08:00

even if you don't have all your design projects and re-do's done yet, you can still have an eye catching house key! i have a leopard painted house key that honestly, makes my whole keychain look a little more saucy...and i love it! so why not spice it up a little with some key accessories!

my super awesome and fab SIL, meg, sent along these cuties to paige for christmas this year. not only are they cute, but hilarious! from green head.

there's saucy and retro designs out there too, that is in case you are not a teenager. ;)

still have a little yellow submarine love going on? how about these key blanks available at your hardware store?!

have a little robo love....then these guys just might be for you. amazon.com has them for under $5.

i'm not gonna lie...this is so simple and so cute, i think it just might be my fav. from statkeys.

head to the store and accessorize that house key! make it look as good as the finished design does in your head! have some fun with it!

danyele @ a thorn among roses

moments...

2010-02-10T07:24:00.000-08:00

do you know how awesome it feels to finally find that thing that you love and love to do? i mean, blogging is usually part of that, but pam, from moments with pam on etsy, is using her photography to bring a little joy to you, to others and make everything around look just a little better.

pam has some beautiful note cards that just make winter seem not so bad about right now! and they offer up a beautiful scripture along side of the photography too!

you can do so many things with the prints...which you can also special order through pam and frame up to make your won home a little more special too.

i say "my grace is sufficient" all the time to help remember that i don't need to be in control...and that my weakness is more than enough. and that's why i love love love this print. might have to get it for my office!

go visit pam at moments by pam on etsy or at her photography blog HERE or her personal blog HERE. oh and tell you you found her here at project{create a home}. i promise you will love this lady, not just for her photography, but for her heart!

danyele @ a thorn among roses

I {Heart} You!

2010-02-10T00:37:00.000-08:00

Love. Love. Love. It's the darnedest thing isn't it? It can be messy, sometimes complicated, but always rewarding. A lot like this cute craft, minus the complicated - that it is not. Sweet & precious? Yes, it is. A lot like love.

Its another beauty from Khali of Little.Lovely fame. You should really check out her blog - it is FABULOUS! You may just fall in love. Go on, its OK.

If you would like to {How To} on this adorable craft please go here.

Is it me or is love in the air?

valentine menu

2010-02-08T06:06:00.000-08:00

{photo from HERE}

how about a chic, new and romantic valentine menu for you and the one you love???

real simple {a fab mag} did not let us down! here are a few of their best tips!!

you have to start with the bubbly...sparkling passion fruit apertif

ingredients

6 tablespoons passion-fruit nectar

sparkling white wine, such as champagne or prosecco, well chilled

divide the passion-fruit nectar between two champagne glasses. top with the sparkling wine and serve.

next...the main course! mini pork rack with roasted potatoes.

can you say, delish? wow!

and what's valtine's without something delicious for dessert?

romantic brownie sundaes

you can be a hero and make homemade brownies, or do what i always do...go for the ghirardelli double chocolate mix. super easy, moist, delish and always a crowd pleaser!
add a little vanilla bean ice cream and you are set!!!

if you want to make the dinner extra special, make a few handmade notes to serve with each course...and then a super cute gift for after dessert.

danyele @ a thorn among roses

snacky football foods...superbowl baby!

2010-02-05T00:36:00.000-08:00

the superbowl is this weekend...and the colts are playing, so let's get our food game on too! {sorry, i'm a hoosier and we relish in these things}...

here's my fav things to fix up...

BUFFALO CHICKEN DIP

{from my friend, steph, over at live. love. eat.}

{ Click Here to Print Recipe }

3 large or 5 small chicken breasts
1 8oz package of room temp. cream cheese
24 oz ranch dressing
8 oz hot sauce (Texas Pete)

Boil the chicken until cooked. In a crackpot melt cream cheese with ranch dressing & hot sauce. When chicken is done, shred & put into the crockpot with the melted cheese mixture. Cook on low & stir occasionally for about an hour. Serve with Fritos, Scoops or fresh bread.

{ Food for Thought }

I recommend starting with 18oz ranch & then tasting to see if you'd like more. And just a reminder because I had to learn the hard way - try to get a bottle of hot sauce that has an opening which allows you to pour rather than just dash the sauce out. Otherwise, you'll be there forever.

____________________________________________

touchdown taco dip...via pampered chef

1 -16 oz can refried beans
8 oz cream cheese -- softened1 pkg (1.25 oz) taco seasoning mix
2 garlic cloves, -- minced
1 small tomato, -- cored and diced
1/4 cup onion, -- chopped
1/4 cup black olives, -- chopped
2 tbsp fresh cilantro, -- chopped
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Sour cream
Baked pita or tortilla chips

Preheat oven 375 degrees. Spread refried beans onto bottom of deep dish pan. Combine cream cheese and seasoning mix in medium-size bowl. Add minced garlic t

o cream cheese mixture; spread over beans. Sprinkle tomato, onion, olives, and cilantro over cream cheese mixture. Top with cheddar cheese. Bake 25-30 minutes or until hot. Garnish with sour cream, if desired. Serve with pita chips or baked tortilla chips.

Note: To prepare pita chips, cut pita bread in half. Slice bread open and cut into triangles; spread over baking stone. Bake in 400 degree oven for 8-10 minutes or until crisp.

______________________________________________________________

annies fruit salsa and cinnamon chips
{for the full recipe click here}
2 kiwis, peeled and diced
2 Golden Delicious apples - peeled, cored and diced
8 ounces raspberries
1 pound strawberries
2 tablespoons white sugar
1 tablespoon brown sugar
3 tablespoons fruit preserves, any flavor
10 (10 inch) flour tortillas
butter flavored cooking spray
2 cups cinnamon sugar

Directions

In a large bowl, thoroughly mix kiwis, Golden Delicious apples, raspberries, strawberries, white sugar, brown sugar and fruit preserves. Cover and chill in the refrigerator at least 15 minutes. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Coat one side of each flour tortilla with butter flavored cooking spray. Cut into wedges and arrange in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Sprinkle wedges with desired amount of cinnamon sugar. Spray again with cooking spray. Bake in the preheated oven 8 to 10 minutes. Repeat with any remaining tortilla wedges. Allow to cool approximately 15 minutes. Serve with chilled fruit mixture.

have fun...and go colts!!!

danyele @ a thorn among roses

{Easy Peasy Valentine's Day Crafts}

2010-02-04T13:27:00.000-08:00

I have to say, Valentine's Day does not get as much attention from me as it should. It's such a fun holiday, however, with our anniversary a few days after and Ryder's birthday a few days after that, I spend my time focusing on those two days instead. Valentine's Day sneaks up on me every year. LOL

I thought I would try to find something fun for the kids and I to do today that would be pretty easy since we are still on the mend. So, you know I turned to my fave crafty diva - Martha Stewart. She never lets me down. :-)

I think we will make these Valentine's for Brian today, to let him know he's "hands down" our favorite Daddy & Hubster.

If I had a little more time and my brain could focus, I would love to make this card. I think it is SO pretty....

For details on how to make this pretty quilled Valentine, just go here.

I think this Valentine is so decorative and festive. They simply decorated a clothes Pin with hearts and used the pin to keep the gift bag closed. So cute & it works double duty so you know I love that!

To make the clothes pin Valentine, just go here for all of the details.

I hope you're having a wonderful day!

kacey @ chronicles of a mommy

springy love...and shopping! yeah!

2010-01-28T09:24:00.000-08:00

what? you missed us? well, we've packed up the old christmas decor and suddenly there's more time! so let's get back to "creating".

with the winter in full swing, i am soooo ready for some springtime! i thought i'd share a little bit of joy and spring with you all too! some great deals and cute goodies to boot!

who doesn't love a fun springy accent? and i have some star love...so this butterfly barn star sprung out at me!!! and it's a sweet deal at only $15 from lil miss crafty pants {great name, btw}.

i love this art! it's quirky and fun and original from christa howard's shop. she's also running a black friday special...

love vintage? this brightly colored and super fun pin cushion from beth's bagz is just right for you! it's pretty and has a job too...or wait, is that just all us gals? sorry...well, it's all the roar and it's super fun for easter too...and yours for only $32.

from Mia Bambina Couture, these super cute hair clippies for little girlies that you know. 3 little bug friends for hair for $7.

next order of business...making some super fun ditty's for around the house!! if you have any you'd like to share, let me know!

come see me over at my place...i'm danyele @ a thorn among roses

cookies for christmas??

2009-12-16T10:54:00.000-08:00

one of the things i have done in the past for gifts...circa last minute...is cookies in a jar!

fun and easy to make, plus who doesn't love the cute jar and fresh cookies as a gift, right??? here's a few of our fam fav's...right off of allrecipes.com {click the cookie title for the direct linky to the recipe}

1/2 cup white sugar

1/2 cup raisins

1 1/4 cups flaked coconut

1 cup cornflakes cereal, crumbled

3/4 cup packed brown sugar

1/2 cup quick-cooking oats

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

mixed with: 1 teaspoon baking soda and 1 teaspoon baking powder

Directions:

Layer the ingredients into a 1 quart canning jar in the order they are listed. Press each layer firmly in place before adding next ingredients. it will be a tight fit.

Attach a label with the following instructions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Empty the contents of the jar into a large bowl and use your hands to blend thoroughly.

Stir in 1/2 cup butter, 1 egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla. Mix until completely blended. You may need to use your hands. Roll dough into walnut sized balls and place them 2 inches apart onto greased cookie sheets.

Bake for 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before removing to a wire rack to cool completely.

_____________________________

1/3 cup sugar

1/3 cup packed brown sugar

3/4 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/8 teaspoon baking soda

1/8 teaspoon salt

1 cup quick-cooking oats

1 cup orange flavored dried cranberries

1 cup vanilla or white chips

ADDITIONAL INGREDIENTS:

1/2 cup butter or margarine, melted

1 egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

In a 1-qt. glass jar, layer the sugar and brown sugar, packing well between each layer. Combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt; spoon into jar. Top with oats, cranberries and chips. Cover and store in a cool dry place for up to 6 months.

then add this note to each jar...

To prepare cookies: Pour cookie mix into a large mixing bowl; stir to combine. Beat in butter, egg and vanilla. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Drop by the tablespoonfuls 2 in. apart onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 375 degrees F for 8-10 minutes or until browned. Remove to wire racks to cool.

_____________________________________

1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour

3/4 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 cup white sugar

2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

1/2 cup packed brown sugar

Directions:

Combine the flour, baking soda, white sugar, and the chocolate chips. Place 1/2 of the mixture in a clean quart sized glass jar, and pack firmly. Place the brown sugar on top, again packing firmly. Place the remaining flour mixture on top. Cover with a lid.

Attach an index card with the following directions:

Empty contents of jar into a large bowl. In separate bowl combine 3/4 cup of butter, 1 1/2 eggs, and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Beat until creamy. Add to dry mixture. Drop by tablespoonful onto an ungreased cookie sheet, and bake in a preheated 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) oven for 8 to 10 minutes.

have fun making those gifts!

danyele @ a thorn among roses

{Gifts For The Writer or Book Lover}

2009-12-10T00:55:00.000-08:00

I was looking for a particular journal for a friend's birthday gift and I finally tracked it down at Chronicle Books. I've never visited their site before and I was really amazed at all of the cool book options that they have for really everyone on your list from Kids to New Parents to Cooks to Crafters & Gardeners. They really have a lot of cool, interesting books and I just had to share. Plus, I found a PROMO CODE {gotta love that!}. If you create a NEW account with them, enter the CODE: GETBOOKS at checkout and receive 30% off your purchase AND FREE SHIPPING!

I really love the idea of a Gratitude Journal - a special place to keep good thoughts and blessings. This one offers prompts as well which I think is a great outlet to explore other things we are grateful for. $14.95

One Line A Day is a great way to keep track of thoughts and memories, a mini-journal if you will. $16.95

I was introduced to this book when I saw the Authors on Oprah. They made me laugh out loud and I can't wait to get my hands on this book! $18.95

Kacey

{Season's Greeting}

2009-12-09T00:34:00.000-08:00

This is the first year, ever, that I am not scrambling at the last minute to send out holiday greetings to those I love. Don't think it's because I'm UBER organized, because lately I have not been. It's because we had family pictures taken this year in October and the photographer was having a sale on holiday cards. So I happily hopped on that bandwagon and ordered set. My greeting cards are addressed, stamped and ready to ship as we speak!

But as I sit here, feeling all organized, I started thinking of my fellow seasonal procrastinators and I felt a need to help! I came across this wonderful paper company while reading {yes, I read...magazines} the December issue of Better Homes & Gardens. I love all kinds of stationary, especially letter pressed stationary, and Linda & Harriet offer a beautiful selection.
Here are a few samples of their Holiday Greetings.

I love their variety of traditional and a little more funky styles. Makes me want to order extra greeting cards just for the fun of it....For more greeting card selections click here.

Kacey R.

cute and easy gifts

2009-12-08T07:37:00.000-08:00

i'm not sure how it happened, but the last week of school is upon me and i have no teacher gifts ready...and not a lot of money to spend either.

my friend, amy, at living locurto, designs all kinds of fun stuff, but here's a fab last minute printable pack for all your quick store bought or handmade goodies!

how cute are they????

in this pack you get a sandwich bag label, a small gift bag, circle tags, and small gift tags. and all for $6...and you can use your own standard sealing bags and dice them up!

want more information and to see the whole pack? head on over to living locurto and check it out!
danyele @ a thorn among roses

stretching 101

2009-12-04T00:02:00.000-08:00

a few things to remember when you are stretching....first, the best time to stretch is AFTER you exercise, because your muscles are warmed up. i'm a fan of jillian from th biggest loser...and she had the following tips:

DRINK. DRINK. DRINK.

stay hydrated...always. not just when exercising, but always. the 8-by-8 rule is a handy guide...drink 8 oz of water, 8 times a day. 64 ounces every day...it keeps your muscles hydrated, cleanses your entire body of toxins, carries nutrients to your cells, keeps stuff moist that's supposed to be moist...like your ears and nose.

BREATHE

seems menial, but you need to breathe slowly and evenly. deliberate breathing delivers oxygen to your muscles.

EVEN

stretch evenly. hold each stretch for at least 30 seconds. Be sure to st

retch all your muscle groups — if you stretch the front of the thighs (quadriceps), make sure you stretch the back of the thighs (hamstrings). also, stretch your whole body not just your legs — stretch your arms, back, neck, stomach, chest, etc.

POSTURE

maintain good posture and do the stretches correctly so as to not hurt your back or strain other muscles.

and where there are do's there are some things you DON'T do as well...

DON'T BOUNCE

use slow, even movements when stretching. bouncing places too much stress on your muscles and joints and doesn't help you stretch better.

DON'T OVERSTRETCH

be patient, and never force your body to go where it doesn't want to. you will begin to see results if you keep at it.

DON'T OVEREXTEND

don't overextend your joints. hyperextending (bending joints farther th

an they were meant to go) can cause injury and doesn't help you in any way. plus, it hurts!

Finally — if it hurts, DON'T DO IT.

always listen to your body. if you're stretching correctly, you should feel tension on the muscles, and possibly some slight discomfort. If you have any sharp or serious pain during a stretch or exercise, STOP, because you may do harm to your body. remember, pain is your body's way of telling you that something isn't right. If you do have an injury, ask your doctor about exercise and stretching and follow his or her advice.

get more fitness tips from Jillian Michaels! she's pretty awesome!

danyele @ a thorn among roses

One Way To Give

2009-11-30T00:30:00.000-08:00

"Mitma" means "heart" translated from Chichewa. The jewelry above was designed and produced to benefit Raising Malawi. All proceeds from the sale of the necklaces benefit Raising Malawi directly. Raising Malawi was founded in 2006 by Madonna and Michael Berg to help bring relief and aid to the 2,000,000 orphans and vulnerable children living in Malawi.

By purchasing a necklace and showing your support you not only receive a beautiful piece of jewelry, but you are part of changing lives in Malawi. During this holiday season when we are all compiling and checking lists, seeing who was naughty and who was nice, why don't we keep the spirit of the season in mind and give gifts with purpose and meaning.

The necklaces range in price from $36 to $1,200. If you would like to learn more about Raising Malawi please click here.
and follow them on twitter...look here.

etsy shopping list

2009-11-23T00:00:00.000-08:00

it's the time of year where gifts and gift lists are on our minds...
here are some fantastic finds...all handmade...and all wonderful!

how cute is this little blue bird dish for your nana...or someone else? head on over to mud hutt for some awesome handmade little ditty's for everyone on your list...

wooden toys make my heart sing. i love these family dolls. they are custom made to look like your family {of 4 anyway} at naked peggies for $65.

mother's necklaces are a great gift idea, but what about an heirloom necklace? you can get names or dates, all sorts of things on this handmade prize. a great gift for your momma from amy cornwell.

shut up! i know, right? adorable beyond words!!! i mean, seriously preciousness in a hat!! i just bought this exact hat for my little nephew who is due in less than 2 weeks. i can't wait to see rowan in his puppy dog hat...$20 at handmade by jules!

look at how stinking cute your little chefs could be for making christmas dinner!!! love 2 things about this apron...first, it's way retro adorable and second, 50% of it's proceeds goes to cora's playground! $22...shop aprons by punky fae on etsy.

sewn natural has this super cute, handmade elephant for that precious little one on your gift list. why not make a little gift a special one too? $16

just a few ideas...check back for more real soon! do you have any favorite things we should feature??? let us know!

danyele @ a thorn among roses

t-giving dinner time savers

2009-11-19T06:57:00.000-08:00

i know...it's thanksgiving dinner and you want everything homemade. here's the reality around my house...ain't gonna happen. too many responsiblities, 4 kids, and life!

so rather than stress about it, here's a few things i do to make things way easier...and honestly, the taste and outcomes always draw a big smile from the fam.

#1...definitely stove top stuffing
it's delicious, quick, and the taste is authentic...you can even get the sage flavored. plus, the kids can make it and contribute! woo hoooo!

#2...cranberry sauce deluxe
still a little cooking, but easy peasy style! here's waht you need:
6 oz frozen cranberries
1/2 cup orange juice
1/2 cup sugar
in a small saucepan over medium heat, mix sugar and oj together until well dissolved. stir in cranberries and cook until they begin to pop. simmer until you get the desired consistancy.

#3...rolls
the bake and break rolls at the store anymore are awesome...so by them to save the time and prep work and then doll them up with some awesome spreads. here's a few ideas:

A garlic-herb spread (blend softened butter or margarine with finely chopped herbs and bottled minced garlic or garlic powder)...recipe HERE for the spread noted in picture!

Cranberry-walnut-cinnamon spread (blend softened butter or margarine with finely chopped dried cranberry, chopped toasted walnuts and a few pinches of ground cinnamon)
Zesty lemon spread (blend softened butter or margarine with finely chopped lemon zest)

have a good time at thanksgiving dinner...not a stressful one! have any other tips to share? please do!!! i just might feature them right here!!!

danyele @ a thorn among roses

trio of trees...from cheri

2009-11-18T00:17:00.000-08:00

i ran into cheri's blog when she left us a comment here at PCAH. she has some super amazing, and easy, projects that i fell in love with! i asked...she agreed...so here's a fab post direct from her blog...

I bought all the supplies to make this little "TRIO OF TREES"

I used 3 styrofoam cones, 1-8 inches and 2-5 inches.

Chenille yarn in 3 colors (you can really do any colors)

straight pins with colored round heads

3 picks

glue gun

Glue the yarn on each cone, starting from the bottom, makes it easier.

Then randomly stick in your straight pins (or christmas balls)

You can do lots or a few of the straight pins...I like mine less busy! Stick your picks in the top...and you have a Trio of Trees!

Maybe I will keep this set for myself!

So many parties...I LOVE parties. So I had to join the fun...

go and see cheri HERE.

danyele @ a thorn among roses

A KISS Thanksgiving

2009-11-16T00:06:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving is a wonderful day to spend with family and friends, with all the preparations by the time dinner is served, I have to admit, I'm usually exhausted!

And then a few year ago I remembered the old saying KISS, Keep It Simple Stupid! LOL

So here are some KISS table arrangements!

Autumn colored candles intertwined with branches and gourds.

Simple pumpkins craved out for a candle

Pumpkins & dried flowers

Or fill a basket, just make it simple and remember to keep you dinner simple too! It's all about the time we spend together...

Happy Thanksgiving to all my fellow bloggers!

xoxo, Cathleen

designercathleen

kids thanksgiving table ideas...

2009-11-12T07:43:00.001-08:00

if you are like us, we have a kids table...and well, the kids are not always thrilled to be shoved over to the side and in the other room. i was thinking, this year the kids table should be fun. and then i found these little ditty's!!!

nothing says thanksgiving like turkey!
a super fun and easy craft to do while you are making final preps for dinner! it takes a few simple things and viola...amazing turkey centerpieces for the kids table...MADE BY THE KIDS!
{directions HERE}
a little more turkey at the table?? this little project is super fun for the little ones in the crew!

cindy at skip to my lou, had this incredible idea. it's a full table setting already set up for you!!! cute and fun, and a great little craft too! grab the printables HERE !!!

if your kids are into nickjr, head over HERE for some fun ideas with wubbzy, max and ruby, and dora too!!!

really, thanksgiving is just around the corner!!! i can't believe it either, but it is!!! let's get ready!
danyele @ a thorn among roses

fancy napkins?

2009-11-12T00:28:00.000-08:00

looking for a quick way to impress peeps that come over for dinner? well, grab your cloth napkins and start folding!

napkin folding guide.com has 27 napkin folds, broken out step by step...with pictures!

this seems seriously fool proof!

see which one best suits your table scape and start folding away!

danyele @ a thorn among roses

Pink all Year!

2009-11-09T00:00:00.000-08:00

Add a little pink in your life!

I always think about pink during October's Breast Cancer Awareness month. But, why not add a little pink in your life year round? Pink is a girls favorite color!

xoxo, Cathleen

DesignbyCathleen

place cards

2009-11-03T00:00:00.000-08:00

i love these ideas from martha stewart on place cards for the upcoming thanksgiving holiday.

the first is super quick...easy and simply beautiful! and the kiddos can help find the leaves in the yard!

i love this place card idea...first, the kids and make it...and it sparks conversation! make your standard turkey place card and use the "feathers" for trivia...it's a great way for the kids to get to know fun details about grandparents...and vice versa!

how about a super cute and easy little project using an edible addition?

for full details and how-to's go HERE.

and living locurto has some awesome FREE downloads for place cards, among other things. go HERE and see them...tell her we sent you!!

danyele @ a thorn among roses

house o'lantern!

2009-10-30T07:09:00.000-07:00

family fun magazine had this fantastic last minute idea that you can pull off for decorating your whole house for trick or treating!

create your own house o'lantern!!! full instructions HERE...

it's super simple and fun...take cardboard and fit to the window in your house. cute out the "face" and cover the opening of the cutouts with orange paper {construction or tissue paper}.

set the new creation inside your window and tape it in for trick or treating...and make sure to light up the pumpkin with your room light! viola...

your very own house-o'lantern!

danyele @ a thorn among roses

the pumpkin patch parable

2009-10-29T14:25:00.000-07:00

i came across a new blog while surfing on twitter...and what a find. i love this great "pumpkin" idea for the halloween season...i asked and amanda gladly offered to let me repost here! i plan to do the same deal-io as amanda and her fam and post it up on my personal blog, a thorn among roses. for now, here's the pumpking patch parable, courtesy of amanda on "impress your kids"...so on we go!

Last night we did our first family devotional time. OK, it wasn’t exactly a devotional. But it was a family activity. And it was about Jesus. So, I’m going to call it a devotional.

We sat down together and read The Pumpkin Patch Parable by Liz Curtis Higgs. Then we acted it out. Here’s how it went:

First we picked out a beautiful pumpkin from the pumpkin patch grocery store. Then we washed it off and opened it up! (Psalm 51:10)

Then we cleaned him out–all the hidden, dirty things inside! (Ezekiel 11:18-20)

We gave our pumpkin a new face! (2 Corinthians 3:18)

Finally, our pumpkin was lit from the inside and shining for the whole world to see!
(Matthew 5:16)

The Pumpkin Patch Parable tells this same story in more details and gives scriptures every step of the way. The scriptures and the story point to the miracle that Jesus does in our lives–he chooses us, washes us off, takes away all our dirty sin, gives us a new heart, a smile on our face and a light to shine to the world! It’s a beautiful picture and a long-standing object lesson that we are able to see for weeks to come! Lydia and I were chanting, “Let your light shine! Matthew 5:16!” the whole time we were looking at our shining new pumpkin. It made quite an impression!

I know this is a blatant rip-off of the Halloween Jack-o-Lantern. Liz Curtis Higgs describes it as redeeming something that God created–a pumpkin. And can I say something else? God knew. God knew people would use the pumpkin as something scary. And that his creation would be a symbol for a mostly evil holiday. And I think he put this symbolism together for this very purpose–to redeem it and remind us how He has redeemed us!

This is an excellent book with sweet pictures and a very profound message. I encourage you to get this book even if you don’t do the carving of a pumpkin together. It will help your kids associate a pumpkin (or jack-o-lantern) with God’s love instead of with Halloween!

hope you enjoyed amanda's fun! go and see her on her own blog, oh amanda, HERE.

my clan's pumpkin parable carving is HERE.

danyele @ a thorn among roses

Fall and Halloween!

2009-10-26T11:32:00.000-07:00

Fall seems to signal time for change, leafs falling, beautiful colors everywhere!

Happy Halloween!

xoxo, Cathleen

designbycathleen

eco friendly tables

2009-10-25T09:17:00.000-07:00

Great ways to bring in Earthy Elements is to add a little into your decor.

Love this Copper Table!

Wood adds a great Rustic Element.

How about Iron and Stone.

This is a great twist on a Twig table with glass.

Small details can make big impressions!

xoxo, Cathleen

designbycathleen.blogspot.com

2009-10-24T00:09:00.000-07:00

are these not the cutest little cookies you have ever soon for halloween? i found them at walmart.com and i thought we should make some up!

here's what you need:

1/2 cup shortening

3/4 cup peanut butter

1/3 cup granulated sugar

1/3 cup packed light brown sugar

1 egg

2 tablespoons milk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup store bought vanilla frosting

Red and black decorator frosting tubes

bag of malted milk balls

Heat oven to 375° F. Beat shortening and peanut butter in large bowl until well blended. add 1/3 cup granulated sugar and brown sugar; beat until fluffy.

add egg, milk and vanilla; beat well. stir together flour, baking soda and salt; gradually beat into peanut butter mixture.

shape dough into 1-inch balls. roll in granulated sugar; place on ungreased cookie sheet.

bake 8 to 10 minutes or until lightly browned. remove from cookie sheet to wire rack. cool completely.

frost center of cookie with vanilla frosting to form white portion of eye. decorate with red and black frostings to form outline of eye and bloodshot markings. press malted milk ball "iris" into center of eye.

makes bout 4 dozen eye balls...i mean, cookies.

danyele @ a thorn among roses

candles, anyone?

2009-10-22T00:52:00.000-07:00

i saw these cute fall candles at pier 1...and i looove them! the problem is, they are only for one season and i just don't want to spend the money.

so why not make them yourself?? i did some research and this is what i found. let's try it!

you need:
leaves, dried and pressed
pillar candles of various heights
craft or elmer's glue

grab some inexpensive pillar candles of different sizes...you can even grab some good scented ones for a few dollars at wal-mart.

find some good leaves, of course...if you have kiddos, this is a great opportunity to go on a "treasure hunt" for different shapes and sizes.

Brush a thin layer of glue onto each leaf and press onto pillar candles of various heights.

toss the candles on a tray and scatter with loose leaves.

the best part, you can remove the leaves at the end of fall and replace them with holly leaves for christmas.

danyele @ a thorn among roses

good candy??

2009-10-20T00:35:00.000-07:00

ok, so candy can't be good, but what about better than most?
i mean, the reality is that we're gonna eat it, so why not make good choices?

so here's some decent choices...

3 muskateers is much less fat than the typical candy bar, but a few more calories. all in all, it's a really good choice, though.

dove chocolates...one word: antioxidants {and dark chocolate}
i'm a lover of all things chocolate and dove does boast the lower calorie count than it's all chocolate competition, so that means i can eat a little and still eat about 50 calories less when eating a dove chocolate. i'll take it!

100 grand isn't that much better, but it is a little...and with the two bar option, you can set aside one for another day...but i never have the power to do it. instead, i share with hubs and then we only eat one. with the bit of less fat and calories than other leading brands, i get a little less and get a little crunch to go along with it.

nothing says delish to me after a good meal than york peppermint patties!!! i love those things. they are pretty low in calories and fat...loaded with sugar, but they are a small special treat and since there is only one, it's a good portion control choice.

it's not the best news, but well, it's better news, right?
happy candy-ing!

danyele @ a thorn among roses

fall party menu for kids

2009-10-19T00:09:00.000-07:00

a few fun fall party treats for the classroom that will make you a rock star...ok, well, maybe no one else has done them yet. who knows...but it's still pretty and fun!

spider brownies

make your standard box of brownie batter in a cake pan. then comes t

he addition of the spider web...

1 (3oz.) pkg. cream cheese, at room temperat

ure

1/4 cup granulated sugar

2 tablespoon milk

mix together and pipe {or pour} in a circular pattern...then take a knife, starting in th

e center and pull out to the edge of the pan. repeat all the way around and viola...spider webbing!

bake per instructions on brownie box {approx 40 minutes} and cool.

wanna really freak them out? put a fun little play spider on top for effect!

witches brew soda

everyone needs a fun drink...so how about this fun fav? it's simple and easy too!!

ginger ale in a fun glass, topped with orange sherbet...and garnished with a few twizzlers! super cute and delish too!

cookies, cookies and more

and what's a party without super fun cookies? how about chocolate mice cookies??

these cute little guys are chocolate cookies crunched up and rolled in confectioner's sugar with almond slice ears! how cute! recipe HERE.

and white chocolate spritz cookies...yummo! recipe HERE.

and the old stand by...caramel apples, with a twist, of course!

are these not super cute and fun?!! recipe HERE.

go on now...get a move on...and show us your creations!!!!

danyele @ a thorn among roses

alternatives

2009-10-17T00:23:00.000-07:00

tired of getting and giving tons of candy for trick or treating??? {me either, actually, but i need some alternatives so i can handle the temptation}

honestly, no kid wants to go trick or treating and get apples, so how about some decent alternatives that make the kids happy, keep the dentist at bay and help keep the kiddos a little healthier in the long run?

food options:

pretzels

microwave popcorn

fruit leathers {not fruit snacks}

cereal bars

individual bags of nuts

fun, non-food options:

bubbles

vampire teeth

playdough

temporary tattoos

bouncy balls

rubber bracelets

slime

so take time to think it through...and you'll still get lots of fun candy, but maybe a little bit of fun, healthy snackage is good too!!!

danyele @ a thorn among roses

breast cancer awareness month

2009-10-15T00:33:00.000-07:00

november is national breast cancer awareness month...

breast cancer is the most common cancer in women aside from skin cancer according to nbcam.

According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), an estimated 192,370 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed among women in the United States last year. Approximately 1,910 new cases are expected in men. The ACS also reports that an estimated 40,610 breast cancer deaths are expected in 2009 (40,170 women, 440 men).

get your mammograms ladies!! i just had my 40 year mammogram...and it's changed significantly. it's digital and well, honestly, less "smooshy" and painful. mammograms are not the best thing in the world, but honestly, it's the widest used technology to find breast cancer. so just go and do it!

and for pete's sake, do your self breast exams int he shower...if you haven't been instructed, ask your doctor. or do your internet research...i have for you....self breast exam how to HERE!!!
danyele @ a thorn among roses

Lamps and Shades

2009-10-13T00:13:00.000-07:00

Use Funky Lamps and Lamp Shades to Jazz up any Room!

Have Fun with color and shapes.

xoxo, Cathleen

designbycathleen

$5 centerpiece, easy peasy

2009-10-12T09:07:00.000-07:00

my friend, kim...over at reinvented...posted this fab $5 centerpiece idea and i had to pass it along {with her permission, of course}. so take a look and grab a 5 spot for a fab fall look!

As much as I like to change up my decor for EVERY holiday, and, well, for every other reason I can think of, I am a "use what you have" kind of girl. Until money really does grow on trees, my home decor budget will stay limited.

Luckily, I've convinced myself that I enjoy the challenge.

Still, I LOOOOVE a beautiful centerpiece.

On my kitchen table, I limit the decor to a bowl of fruit. I figure my kids are gonna grab and eat whatever is there, so I better make sure it's not poisonous.

The dining room table is another story. We seldom actually DINE in there, but people do walk by it a lot on their way to the kitchen, so I want the table to look pretty. I found these adorable tiny white "pumpkins" at the grocery for $4.99. Everything else you see here I already had, hence the "five dollar" title.

Remember this tray made from an old frame? I pulled out my trusty leaf garland, now five or six years old, added some spray painted Goodwill candlesticks and some apple green candles that were already in the dining room. Voila! I love the simple color palate, my dining room walls are the same color as the candles, so I like to keep the accessories rather neutral. Learn more about the wall color here.

Now, for some inspiration. Scroll down at your own risk, I can no longer guarantee the $5 price tag.

This is a Martha centerpiece, but I spotted the picture at Forever Wherever. If I had a garden like Martha's, I'd SO fill a white pumpkin with roses.

This one you could do for five bucks. These little cheese domes are easy to find at thrift stores. A row of three on a burlap table runner, with just apples and flowers...swoon...
If you're not planning to roast the Thanksgiving turkey, then display the pan full of seasonal greenery and fruit. Just use whatever you can find in your yard. Unless all you've got are dead petunias, like me.

Here are some more ideas.

Beautiful. simple. colorful. Just don't let the kids eat them.
Pictures from MyHo meIdeas.com

danyele @ a thorn among roses

cookies!!!!

2009-10-05T09:10:00.000-07:00

october is national cookie month...

and what a better thing to celebrate???

so here's the deal...we wanna know what your favorite cookie recipe is. then we'll make it...package it...and send it along to a few local shelters and schools around the states here where our writers are located.

so go on now...share your fav recipe in the comment section below.
then we here at pcah will share the cookie love around...you can too!!!

submit your recipes by october 15th...

danyele @ a thorn among roses

pumpkin centerpieces

2009-09-28T00:05:00.000-07:00

fall is a great time to decorate with things right from the back yard...or the garden, anyway.

pottery barn has these beautiful pumpkin candles...adorable, but stinking pricey, from $6 for the itsy bitsy ones to $29 for the big guy.

here's the project{create a home} makeover...the revised pumpkin candles.

you need:
pumpkins, variety of sizes
tea lights
taper candles
votive candles
knife
apple corer
marker

using the tea light as a guide, mark your pumpkin with a marker slightly larger than the size of the tea light.

using an apple corer or knife, core a hole/slot at the stem of the pumpkin. then pry up the hole to remove the cut out.

for taper candle holders, cut the hole in the mini pumpkin slightly smaller than the end of the taper candles.

remember a good old fashioned decor tip...odd numbers look best! make 3, 5, 7, etc

put your tea lights and/or tapers in the pumpkins and viola...snazzy pumpkin candle holders!
add some dried leaves from the yard on the table top, pu the pumpkin lights on top and you have a fab centerpiece!

danyele @ a thorn among roses

{Pumpkin? What Pumpkin?}

2009-09-26T00:16:00.000-07:00

I love everything about decorating for Halloween. My most favorite part is selecting the perfect pumpkin - going to the pumpkin patch - looking at a hundred pumpkins before I find that perfect match....

What I'm not a fan of - carving. My Honey is great at it. Me? Not so much. I have to wear gloves if I want to be anywhere near the pumpkin guts, literally. My sensitive skin + an acidic pumpkin is not a good combo. So I can feel a little left out when it comes to this decorating aspect until now!

Look what I found at Wrapables.

This little crew of pumpkins, er, spiders are silly & precious!

And this little Mama Witch and Baby Witch just make me smile...

I'm happy to have found some alternatives to decorating my perfect pumpkin and something that we can reuse year after year!

.:Kacey:.

{You Say VAAAAASE, I say Vase}

2009-09-22T00:02:00.000-07:00

I want to start a collection of white dishes and vases. When I saw this on Hotstess {With The Mostess} I gasped with delight! I love how simple and elegant it is with a little bit of a vintage funky twist. I WANT it. I NEED it. At $29.95 it isn't out of reach. It is also a great contender for a Hostess gift or a gift for my Mother-In-Law who seems to have everything. LOL

If you're in love with this vase the way I am, you can pick it up at Wrapables. I'm warning you though, if you go over to Wrapables to get the vase, its probably not the only item that will be in your cart. They have a lot of great items!

Happy Shopping!

.:Kacey:.

up the chic, baby

2009-09-19T00:00:00.000-07:00

i have to admit something...i know bluetooth headsets are necessary, but they are typically ugly!!!
hubs has a few sets...one in particular, that i absolutely loathe!

but, well, apparently, i'm not the only one that thinks headsets are geeky...and unfashionable.

the cover of wired magazine this month has brad pitt {eye candy} sporting a headset...well, just look for yourself:
it says: "Rule No. 52 Ditch the headset. He can barely pull it off- and you are not him."

but the reality is that they are necessary and legally necessary in some areas, so well, if you have to sport one, why not find a cute one, right?!

this is the jawbone prime from aliph...the jawbone earcandy is super fun and full of summer colors...and well, bluetooth too, so why not?
got an extra $50k sitting around? well, do i have the headset for you. plantronics has the standard for much less, but this one is maxxed out wtih gold and diamonds...it was set for auction to raise money for the elle charities.
so for the normal people, here's a great option from fancy matters on etsy for a mere $73! it's full of sparkle and cute...
be safe...wear the headset...but do it in style. i'm off to find a bedazzler!

danyele @ a thorn among roses

{It Doesn't Get Better Than This}

2009-09-16T00:08:00.000-07:00

Trust me, if you LOVE chocolate, you're going to love me for this.....

Take 2 boxes of this...

And 2 of these - yes they are the movie size, and yes, I know, LOTS of chocolate!

Just do it!

Mix both of your brownie mixes together according to the directions on the box. Pour half of the mixed brownie batter into baking dish, layer in Symphony chocolate bar(s) ~ you could use the milk chocolate version instead if you wanted ~ and then pour the remaining brownie batter on top. Bake according to directions on the Brownie box.

Voila! You have a little piece of chocolatey heaven in your kitchen. Every time I make these everyone asks about them and they are SO SIMPLE!

Go on - go fulfill that chocolate craving I just created. ;D I promise, you won't regret it!

.:Kacey:.

how much left over?

2009-09-13T00:02:00.000-07:00

leftovers....it's the good and the bad of having a little get together.
we just had a softball get together and there were 2 large packages of hamburger buns left over.

i got creative...and surfed the web for new ideas.
{i always make bread pudding with leftover bread, so i thought i'd try a few more things this time}

first up...apple raison french toast casserole from HERE
it's beautiful and delicious...and makes up the night before so it was perfect for a saturday morning breakfast before soccer games and a softball tournament! and i didn't feel too bad because it has apples and raisons in it and i served yogurt with fresh strawberries as a side. yummy to my tummy!

next...blue cheese and onions creations from HEREliterally some blue cheese and diced onions on top of a bun and toasted until the cheese melts a bit in a toaster oven or broiler. delish!!!

next...mini mexican pizzas!!!
super fun, easy and the kids love it!!! i altered a recipe i found HERE.
taco seasoned cooked meat {leftover is great}
shredded cheese
green peppers, onion olive for toppings
1 can tomato sauce or taco sauce
...and the famous leftover bunsplace the buns on the baking sheet open. spoon about a tablespoon of sauce on each bun. place meat and toppings on next. top with cheese. broil {or toast in toaster oven} until the cheese is melted.

well...enjoy some good old fashioned leftovers with hot dog and hamburger buns. we did!!!

danyele @ a thorn among roses

here chicken chicken!

2009-09-08T00:09:00.000-07:00

chicken is so easy to have on hand...and it's even better when you find a super easy and delicious recipe.

and guess what? i found one!!! i modified a chicken enchilada recipe i found HERE to fit what we like and what i had on hand...

here's the ingredients:
1 T of butter
1 small onion, chopped
1 teaspoon crushed garlic
1 T mexican or taco seasoning
2-4oz can diced green chile's
1 can cream of something soup {i used mushroom bc i had it on hand}
1/2 cup cour cream {or you can sub in yogurt}
1 1/2 cups cooked chicken
1 bag of shredded cheese {i used mexican cheese}
6 tortillas
1/4 cup milk

preheat the oven to 350F to start things off!
in melted butter, grill the onions and garlic...add diced chicken. then set aside.

in a separate bowl, mix together green chile's, cream of mushroom soup, and sour cream.
split the sauce in 3/4 and 1/4.

with the 1/4 sauce, add the cooked chicken and 1/2 cup of shredded cheese.
in a 9x13 baking dish, take each flour tortilla and fill with the mixture, placing the seam side down to keep the enchilada's all together!

with the remaining 3/4 sauce, stir in the milk. spoon the mixture over the top of the enchiladas and then top with the remaining cheese.

bake in preheated over for 35 minutes...and the cheese is all bubbly!!! serve garnished with green onion, tomato and sour cream if you like!!! eat up!!!!

danyele @ a thorn among roses

cloth diapering

2009-09-07T00:00:00.000-07:00

i am not a cloth diapering mother, but i always wanted to be. when i ran across miss josie's shop on etsy, "oh baby boutique", i almost changed my mind!! josie makes super cute, fun and environmentally friendly and healthy stuff for your kiddos...what more can you ask for?

josie is a very proud mother to her cute and adorable, 18 month old, bailey!

what's your most embarrassing mommy moment so far?
My most embarrassing mommy moment was probably any time I would try to nurse my baby somewhere and wanted to throw a blanket or nursing cover over her she would smile and rip it away and say "hi". hahaha, that was her first word at like 8 months!

when did you start using disposable diapers?
I started using reusable diapers because when I was pregnant I knew we were not going to have a lot of money. I started buying a pack of disposables every time I went to the store (ok maybe twice total...) and it blew me away how expensive they were! I knew there had to be a better way!

My mother in law used cloth pre-folds for her oldest child and thought I should give it a try. She bought me 3 packs of Gerber prefolds, some pins, and we set out looking for plastic pants to go over the pre-folds. We looked EVERYWHERE and could not find any, which lead me to the internet. Boy was I surprised to learn there was a whole new way to cloth diaper- who would have thought they would make some that LOOK like diapers! I knew I could make some myself and set off to try it out! I have been hooked ever since!

Once my daughter was born and about 2 months old we moved to a place where we didn't have some of the modern conveniences of life, and therefore had to ditch the clothies for a few weeks. I found that she was having 3-4 blowouts each day and it was SO frustrating! I got a good diaper cover and tried out the cloth again, even though we had no way to wash them, and the blowouts were all but gone!
how do you make your diapers and how do they stay on???
My diapers are made with flannel inside and out, with a layer in the middle of flannel that has a tri-folded terrycloth soaker layer sewn into it. They are absorbent without being big and bulky!

The diapers go together with snaps near the hip and are truly hard for baby to pull off! Each leg as well as the back has elastic to keep all the mess in. These diapers do need a cover because they are not waterproof (although I can make some that are! :) that can all be fixed with a cute fleece cover (which comes with my set) or a waterproof plastic cover or even a cute pair of hand knit wool pants!

There is nothing cute about a white plastic diaper, but imagine the possibilities you can come up with when the fabric store is your limit!

how long do your diapers last?
These diapers will last you well over a year. I have been using the exact same diapers since May of last year when my daughter was 5 months old, and she is 18 months old now! Many people save their diapers to pass down to the next kid, but we haven't gotten to try that one out yet!

now, the question we all want to know...how do you keep them clean and sanitary?
To clean them, I chuck them in the washer with a scoop of Oxyclean on a cold soak. Once the cold soak is over I throw in a tiny bit of diaper safe laundry soap (go to myclothaddiction.blogspot.com for a link to a list of safe detergents!) and a bunch of baking soda and wash on a hot wash with a cold rinse and then another hot rinse. I then just throw them in the dryer and put them in the drawer!

SO easy! Obviously if there is poop on it you would want to try to get most of it off by shaking it over the toilet, but if it is newborn stuff or wont come off, it wont hurt if you throw it in the wash as is!

josie is offering all PCAH readers a special deal...because she wants us to know and experience how easy cloth diapering is!!!! drop her an email at ohbabyboutique@live.com and get a diapering!!!

oh, you aren't in the diapering stage? good news! josie makes all kinds of stuff! she had beautiful birthday sets for boys and girls...blankets, swim diapers, and so much more! go check her out HERE. you won't be disappointed!

danyele @ a thorn among roses

techie saturday--decor

2009-09-05T00:28:00.000-07:00

it's time for some fun and geeky/techie decor again...

knick knack patty shack offer s a great selection of super fun plates that just beg for conversations!
this wine appetizer plate is $20.

girls can tell offers this super fun, puzzle like, retro domestic goddess coaster set for the woman with everything, and a side of geek. $16. and as a speial deal for project create a home readers, readers include the code "project 10%" in the note to seller at checkout, girls can tell will reimburse 10% of orders of $25 or more (before shipping) through paypal. this will be good through sept. 14.

etsa sketch offers this "superheroes among us" 10x13 awesome piece of art for $54...the comics are from incomplete books from the artist and made into art again!

the perfect pillow set for the geek kingdom, from diffraction fiber...$58. and for readers of PCAH, diffreaction fiber is offering free shipping free shipping september 5th through 11th by simply mentioning project create a home in the note to the seller at check out!!!

go get your geek on...come on. it's fun!

danyele @ a thorn among roses

sugar...is it bad!?

2009-09-04T05:48:00.000-07:00

the american heart association is picking on me! i mean it. they are picking on me.
i know it's for my own good, but seriously? limit my sugar intake? it's not funny! it's hard...in fact, it's close to impossible!

according to a recent article in the wsj HERE, the AHA issued a statement this week that says "most women should limit their sugar intake to 100 calories, or about six teaspoons, a day; for men, the recommendation is 150 calories, or nine teaspoons."

seriously...good recommendation and i'm sure good for us, but have you seen the food we eat? it's not good...we have become a country {and i am} who eats our feelings. have a bad day? grab a cookie from paradise and what ails you fades. need to celebrate a straight a report card with your kiddo? head to cold stone for some "love it's" in a waffle cone.

so what can we do to determine the amount of sugar we take in....and then reduce it to a reasonalbe level? first, the labeling is not really conducive to what we are trying to do...they are measure in grams, not in calories, so grab those calulators! the FDA has a great link HERE to answer all your nutrition label questions.

the most reasonable step is making different and better choices.
not gonna lie...this is the hard part for me!!

dessert around our house is few and far between, but one of the fav's here is a parfait {everybody loves a parfait...from shrek? no?} any fresh fruit, or frozen you have on hand, mixed with non-fat vanilla yogurt and topped with a granola cereal. i promise you it's a crowd pleaser AND the yogurt can be frozen to do the whole "fake ice cream thing" too!

making better choices with the sugar thing...in rice and breads and beer and even in milk for us and our families! use brown rices and unrefined breads.

and don't just skip on over to eating salads...beware of the dressing monster! salad dressings are chocked full of sugars...i know! use can use a vinaigrette or a yogurt based dressing and seriously reduce the sugars! {everyone's fav, ranch is really not so great on the sugar front}.

i'm totally trying...and still learning, so let me know what you are doing to reduce the sugars in your life! please!!!!danyele @ a thorn among roses

grandparents day

2009-09-02T00:06:00.000-07:00

they fill you full of dessert right before bed.

they feed your kids sugary pop and suckers and popcorn and then pack them into your car to try and put to bed.
they pitch in when you are sick...
they buy outdated clothes for your kids that you have to put them in...
...but we all love them anyway!

grandparents!!
and september 13th is grandparents day!!!
grandparents.com has a plethora of activities to do for and with your kids/grandkids.
10 things essentials for fun with kids
they have coloring pages...

and one of my favs, there's incredible humor...with quotes from all sorts of folks:

"My grandmother started walking five miles a day when she was sixty. She's ninety-seven now, and we don't know where the hell she is." Ellen DeGeneres

so head on over there...find some good stuff, and remember your grandparents.danyele @ a thorn among roses