Today's recipe is inspired by a nut butter that I'd heard about and had to try from Manna Organics. Oh my goodness. It's amazing! Seriously addicting. When I found myself going back to the jar for the second, third and fourth time, I decided I...
Meet Lucia. My friend, neighbor, and young craft phenom! She reminds me of myself (but better) at her age. I'd like to believe if I had grown up with the plethora of today's resources, that I'd have dived in with wild abandon as she does!...
I have had my fair share of baking issues. Am I alone on this or, can you relate? After a little research, I created a shortlist of helpful reminders. Learn how to make your cookies better with these simple tips and tricks. 1 Before you Begin,...
I finally found a chocolate chip cookie recipe that loves me back. Delicious flavor, with a wonderful texture that is lightly crisp on the outside and chewy on the inside. It's my family's newest favorite! Keep reading to discover Alex's Best Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe....
I am not an organizing professional, but I have learned a thing or two over the last few decades from my husband, who may be slightly OCD. But, it's a good thing because he has taught me many lessons in editing, purging, sorting, and filing....
These deliciously sweet and salty protein bites are on current rotation in my kitchen. Long-term rotation actually. Why? Super healthy, delicious, crave control! Need I say more? Protein Snack Idea Each protein ball is loaded with ALL the good stuff but quick and easy to make because...
We all love ourselves some Pottery Barn, right? To be honest, most times I walk away with a whole lot of inspiration instead of a purchase. Sorry PB! I just love all the home decor accessories and ideas they show in their stores. A beautiful...
Happy New Year Friends! Here's one more look back at the blog before we move on! It's a review of the 10 Most Popular Recipes of 2020. Again, I want to say a huge thanks for following along. I love creating this blog and hearing from...
Happy New Year Friends! I’ve been working on my new year’s intentions this week, as one does this time of year, and the graphic designer in me needed a pretty and organized format to do so. It’s a blessing and a curse. Today I am sharing...
The New Year is almost here! I thought it would be fun to take a quick review of the 10 Most Popular Projects of 2020 from the blog. Before we get started, I want to say a big thank you for following along. It’s so fun...
I have been ginger cookie obsessed this season! This is a late-breaking life situation; I didn't grow up with ginger cookies of any kind but was inspired by a store-bought variety in recent years. As a result, now I can't stop. I've been making and tweaking...
If you are celebrating something a banner is a perfect way to showcase your enthusiasm! Today I have DIY banner ideas for you that can work for any occasion, big or small. I promise you will enjoy creating this festive craft banner. Bonus, it is made...
Happy Holidays! Today I am sharing a most delightful confection; Suzi’s Toffee Popcorn with Chocolate Drizzle recipe. Stick around because you are going to love it. Maybe too much. Suzi was my next-door neighbor for 15 years. They were the cherished years as our children were...
This month I am excited to showcase Vintage Inspired Hand Made Decor by Laura Kennedy; AKA Esther and Irene. Laura and I first met when our sons were in kindergarten together some 15 years ago. Little did I know how many things we had in common!...
Hello friends! Here's some quick Christmas table setting ideas and inspiration for you, just in time for your holiday meals. Welcome to Jenny's table. Jenny and I go way back to high school. She's beautiful inside and out, and so is her Christmas table. It's...
This seems to be the year of the GNOME. They are everywhere you turn, and they are in every size, every shape, and every style! Inspired by all the cuteness, my girlfriend, Ruth made these adorable versions to utilize her Mom's stash of recycled wool...
Happy December Friends! Today's project is easy-peasy but loaded with potential. My examples are pretty tame, to be honest, but at the bottom of the post, I show some additional inspiration from around the web to light up your imaginations. I will definitely be making more...
There never seems to be a shortage of things to purchase, collect, or put on our Christmas trees. But here’s an idea that's quick, super simple, and very inexpensive. It adds lots of color, shimmery beauty, fills in gaps, but most importantly, gives you creative...
Homemade goods seem to touch a place in our hearts, and I think you'll agree these Christmas stocking ideas (and tutorial) are no exception. They combine cozy sweaters and the holidays; a perfect recipe for the season. I hope you are inspired to make one...
I originally created this post in March, but alas, it is still relevant. Fortunately there are many masks now widely available! If you still are making masks or interested in trying, this design is a good one! The key to a good fit seems to...
Sometimes just getting started is the hardest part. Am I right? There is a project that I put off for years, much to the dismay of my patient husband. A cushion cover for a 9-foot long window seat in my office. It was very obviously...
Today's recipe is not only flavor-FULL but it gets extra credit for nutrition too! It is bone broth disguised as authentic Chinese Dumpling Soup in an instant pot. Fast, healthy, and delicious! Awesome right? This is another wonderful recipe courtesy of our Chinese friend, Yulin (James). He...
It's back to sewing basics today. Learn how to make a DIY envelope pillow cover. This is great for beginners because it is the easiest and fastest way to make a handmade pillow cover! Pillow with Flange Trim tutorial HERE Envelope Style Pillow Inspiration The envelope pillow style can stand...
This time of year it is always fun to feather the nest a little. Today's craft project is perfect for this! I think you will enjoy adding some fall decor and color to your space with this Thanksgiving crafts banner. Other Banner Craft Ideas Fall Garland HERE Christmas...
I LOVE fall. I feel it in my soul. If only it weren't so fleeting! Today we're going to extend fall beauty indoors with this sweet and easy fall leaf crafts garland. Create your own pattern for the leaves by tracing real ones, OR you can...
There seems to be a crossbody revolution happening and I am all in! Purses are such a personal thing. The size, the fabric, the color, etc. We love our purses so! That's why it's so fun to make your own and create it just the...
Welcome to my current dessert obsession. I call them, Healthy Oatmeal Bars with Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt. This recipe is a healthy re-creation of my all-time favorite childhood dessert. The old recipe was delicious yes, but full of sugar. So of course, I loved...
If you have an antique chair with good bones or any chair that has outlived its cushion, you are lucky, because as they say, they don't make them like they used to! If your chair is in good shape but the cushion is not, it's...
I do love a beautiful landscape, gorgeous flowers, and healthy green plants, but maintaining it all? Not as much. After a recent plant fail, Crazy Aunt Patty showed me a creative and inexpensive way to make a custom, artificial plant arrangement. I was originally skeptical...
Greetings, fellow food fans! Today, I bring you Dave's (Zhengzheng) delicious Chinese Chicken and Potato Stew recipe. This dish is hugely popular in our kitchen. When Dave visits on college breaks and wants to cook, this dish is at the top of our list. It's...
As the temps dip here in Minnesota, I am reminded of this timeless recipe that everyone needs in their kitchen repertoire. I tend to forget about it until the bounty of the late summer arrives. Okay, let's be honest, the dang snow is coming and...
I just love wrap skirts. I love how they drape, fit, and look amazing on all body types, covering up flaws and accentuating assets. Worn casual, with flip-flops or dressed to the nine’s, they are so versatile. For my sewing project today, I used a...
Hello! Just dropping in to share this awesome little hack for how to make ties for face masks or really just about anything you need fabric laces for, clothing, accessories, home decor, or crafts. Stay for a minute (it's that quick!), and learn how to...
Hello there! It's been a while since my first face mask post, and I never dreamed we would still be needing them this long. Sigh. So, I've decided to try a different design. This one is adjustable, you can tie it and size it to...
Hello there, sunshine! Though you may be spending an enormous amount of time at home these days, let's sew something to wear for the days when we do get out! Follow along and be inspired to make a summer dress - McCalls M8090; Plus lots...
Hey friends! I am back today with yet another delicious Asian-inspired recipe from our international friend Zhengzheng Ren (Dave), from Shanghai. Easy, Chinese style sauteed shrimp is fast, delicious, and one of my absolute favorites. First and foremost, this dish is super flavorful and tasty. Chinese...
"If you find something you love that fits you well, buy it in multiples!" Maybe you've heard this said before, and you would if you could, but sometimes it’s just not available in other colors or patterns. Fortunately, if you like to sew or you’re...
So many craft projects, so little time! Today I have a whole new category of crafts for you. Mosaic tiles! IKR. How are you going to fit all this fun into one lifetime? Today, we are dropping in on my friend Deb as she finishes...
When our Chinese friends are cooking, I usually go into a spectator mode, because many of their Asian recipes are new to me and a little intimidating! However, after always asking them to make their delicious Lo Mein Noodles recipe, they finally encouraged me to...
Hello there! Are you ready to try your hand at sewing clothes? I've got some simple skirt designs and lots of pattern inspiration for you today! There is something for every shape and size. If you are not a beginner, I hope you enjoy the...
Here she is, my traditional 4th of July Blueberry Crumble. I think I've made this every year for the last 15 years. Best in July, when the blueberries are abundant and sweet. It doesn't have a fancy lattice crust, but it's faster, easier, and it's...
I first fell in love with graham cracker crusts as a kid. My Mom let me buy a paperback cookbook from a scholastic book sale at school, a rare occasion! I treasured that book and made every recipe in it, but my favorite was an...
You really have to hand it to Betsy Ross. She knew what she was doing. The American Flag design is so simple, yet so distinctive and also open to beautiful interpretations. Do I sound patriotic? Well yes, I am! Here's a craft project that's fun...
It's almost Independence Day in the United States, so you know what that means? Yes, of course. My girlfriend Ruth is back at her gnome endeavors! I just wanted to drop in quickly today and share her colorful and creative 4th of July Gnomes DIY. NEW HALLOWEEN...
Everybody needs a neighbor who delivers cocktails to your door. We are lucky enough to have those neighbors, and they've shared their drink recipe today. It's bound to put a summer smile on your face and a kick in your step. Here's how to make...
Hello Friends! Today I'm sharing a super-easy way to create and sew pillowcases or cushion covers that look store-bought and a bit more tailored than your basic envelope-style design. It only involves one extra step. The secret sauce is an additional topstitch that creates a...
Anytime is a good time to be in the company of good friends. But summertime, in a garden, with beautiful flowers, sunshine, and warm weather, is even better! Last week we had the privilege of being spoiled guests of our friend, Midge. An invitation to...
Need a quick pick me up for your summer porch or patio? This tablecloth has you covered. (Pun intended) Its construction is idiot-proof, super-fast, and easy. No sewing is required, which makes this project the perfect choice for your next family meal, small celebration, or...
Greetings from face mask central. Today, I want to share what I've been adding to my face masks to tighten up the nose area. A better fitting mask makes for improved protection. The good fit is also valuable to us eyeglass wearers, as it helps avoid...
Today’s post is pure Spring inspiration; Flower pot planting ideas just for you. I'm sharing the gorgeous flower art of one of my besties. Ruth is that girl you know, gloriously gifted with both sides of the brain; smarts and artistic chops. Not fair, right?...
Hi friends! I am happy to report that the weather in Minnesota has finally transformed into Spring! I'm here to celebrate with a sewing project for warmer weather. It's a perfect time to make a long skirt - mine is Simplicity 8745 but in this post, I...
Nothing pulls together a space like fabrics; from upholstery to pillows, drapes, or cushions. If you can't find exactly what you are looking for or you don't want the high cost of custom, you can make most of these items yourself. Today I will show...
For weeks I have been making and eating my weight in banana bread. The Jimmys (Fallon and Kimmel) both confirmed last week that (thank goodness) I am not alone. It must be human nature to seek comfort via bananas. If you are craving it too,...
Well hello and happy spring green to you! Are you looking to try something new in this beautiful season? Let it be this project. An easy succulent garden planter is as beautiful as it is fun to make! Girls Night (or Day) Ideas My girlfriends and I...
This post is fun for me in every way. First of all, this is my happy salad! Zoodles with Spicy Thai Peanut Sauce is bursting with flavor. I could drink it. Well, maybe not drink… but surely over-pour. The zoodles (zucchini noodles) just take it...
Hi there! Welcome to Part 3 in my series on organizing your creative spaces. In the next few installments, we will look specifically at creative workstations. First up. Sewing rooms! Today I'll take you for a quick spin around my sewing setup and throw out...
Are you looking for a creative distraction from our current situation? I've got you. If you are at home, now is a perfect time to learn a new skill. Have you ever wanted to sew your own clothes? Today's creative challenge is to make a...
Sometimes, it's the little things. As with most things in life, taking the time and extra effort with the little things goes a long way to making something special. Sewing projects are no different; to add a nice finishing touch to a home decor project...
Hello friends! Welcome to Part 2 in my series on organizing your craft room or space. (To read Part One, click HERE) This edition is definitely not as fancy because I am going to talk about short and long term storage solutions. Stay with me...
Hey gang, here's a fun recipe to fool your not-so-healthy-food-loving kids or spouse. If that's a thing in your world? This healthy Chocolate and Banana Protein Shake recipe is really delicious and no one will ever guess how clean and healthy it is. I love...
Hi Friends! Join me for today's sewing project and be inspired to create something for yourself! I'll be making a linen tie-front blouse using Simplicity Pattern D0890 (or 8601), but first, I have a question for you. When sewing, which do you buy first; the...
Full disclosure. I actually started this DIY project years ago for a sweet young family member. But life was super busy, working full time, taking care of family and raising a teenager. Maybe you can relate? I ended up tucking it away. Now, this sweet...
With Valentine's Day fast approaching, I want to share another handmade gift idea that you can make for a special person in your life. I've seen variations of this frame for sale in the past and I always thought it would be fun to try...
The holidays are synonymous with visiting or visitors. As a guest, I am always taking mental notes of wonderfully welcoming guest room ideas so that I can return the favor someday in my home. To help jog my memory and help yours too, I've created...
There's an unexpected gem in my neighborhood that we all get to enjoy every time we pass by. It was not always this way though. Ten years ago it was a property in need of major TLC. Fortunately, at the same time, it was also...
Though it is technically fall, I'm still holding on to summertime with both hands. And here in Minnesota, our trees are kinda doing the same thing! They are still 99 percent green. Say what? So then, to mark the end of the summer and the...
Delicious Dumpling Dipping Sauce. How do you like that alliteration? Trust me, it's true! This secret sauce has an exceptional flavor, one taste, and I promise ...
I have always been an appetizer girl. As far back as I can remember. It was a really "special" occasion when my Mom bought pizza rolls for a New Year's treat for us kids. It was a bit more fun and satisfying eating these little packages...
What's hiding under your bed? Whether it's monsters or just a bunch of storage containers, I have an inexpensive way to hide them and get a custom look while you're at it. Today we're going to make an easy, DIY bed skirt using simple and...
We all know whipped cream is a delicious addition to any dessert, but when you understand how very fast and easy it is to make, it becomes a no-brainer. With only 3 ingredients, a decadent taste and appearance, this recipe for homemade keto whipped cream...
About ten years ago, when my parents were somewhere in their seventies, before my Mom's Alzheimer's struck, my Dad was on a cookbook buying spree. I think he was trying to encourage her to try new recipes and foods. (wink, wink.) I could see what he...
If you love your pet as much as we love ours, hopefully, this project doesn't seem quite as silly. LOL. I would do just about anything for my puppy. Even dress her up a little. Today's project is perfect for just that. Raise your pet's...
If cakes make a celebration special, a homemade cake takes it to the next level. It shows your guests they are important and that you really care. My personal favorite, no matter the flavor, is a mini cake. They are adorably elegant. Two words that...
Hey friends! Here's my first no recipe, recipe, using Trader Joe products. I hope it gives you a quick side dish idea because sometimes fast and easy food is exactly what we need. Bonus; It’s delicious, simple and super healthy too. It's a perfect way...
Summer is almost here. Yay! Is your closet ready? When the warm weather hits, nothing is easier to wear than a breezy skirt. Trouble is, it's often hard to find the perfect one...
It's 5 pm, do you know what you are making for dinner? Never fear. Today, I've got you covered with Keto Shrimp Creole with Cauliflower Rice. This is a delicious recipe you are sure to love. And your picky family will too. Mine does! That's why...
It's good to get out of your comfort zone. Right? Not always easy, but good. We've stretched ourselves over here the last few years when it comes to international flavors. For instance, duck tongue. Yup. Are you squirming yet? This is just one taste of...
House blind? Yup, it happens to the best of us! When you become so used to your home that you unconsciously overlook the clutter or the time-worn flaws of aging. Have you experienced this phenomenon? Maybe you've been out of town for a while. You step...
Capes seem to come in and out of fashion, but to me they are classic. Unique and stylish, the bolder the better. YOLO. Today I am going to show you how to make an easy hooded cape. They are very simple. No sleeves, cuffs, or...
I am forever on the hunt for a delicious, healthy, sugar cookie recipe. I think I found it! My perfect cookie is gluten-free, without refined sugar and the guilt that comes with it. 😉 These Gluten-Free Decorated Cookies for Valentine's Day are my new roll out,...
It's comfort food season! Well, it is here in Minnesota anyway. We are just coming through the other side of (what seems like) our annual Polar Vortex. With this weather, I really need something warm, comforting, and satisfying. I will be steering clear of the...
This seemingly ordinary project (Did you really just yawn?) may be the perfect beginner sewing project for you to cut your DIY teeth on. It's easy and relatively fast to make. It involves two skills, ironing, and straight stitching. I know that you can do...
Today's craft project is inspired by MacKenzie-Childs. You may have heard of them? They are known for their imaginative, whimsical designs of home decor, dinnerware, and home furnishings. A few of which I have been gifted over the years, by my generous Mother In-Law. Thanks...