Christmas Houses

I made painted and decorated these Christmas houses for my “annual” Christmas craft get together. It’s really an excuse for the ladies in the family to spend some time with one another and chat, laugh and snack! Actually, there is minimal crafting happening, but, everyone takes home a craft! These were pretty simple to make! I was inspired by this photo from Pottery Barn. supplies Unfinished Townhouse Birdhouse (This is a pack of 8. It is a better deal through Michael’s Online) Dap Joint Compound Dollhouse Miniature Lights Miniature Street Lights Miniature Christmas Items White and red paint (I had...

Christmas Candy | Family Tradition Recipe

This Christmas Candy was a tradition at the holidays when I was growing up. My sister and I made this ourselves for the first time in 50 years! We thought of my mom the whole time! The whole house smelled lovely. The lemon flavor did not have the lemony flavor we hoped, but the cinnamon and peppermint are tasty! Careful with the heat of the syrup! It burns!

Gift Guide | Fitness

Whether you are a fitness enthusiast, just try to stay active or need to buy for someone who is, these fitness gear items are some of my favorites. (Links provide a small commission. No additional cost to you!) Shorts with Liner | Hoka Shoes | Socks | Earphones | Walking Running Fanny Pack | Pickleball Paddles | Sunglasses | Running Shorts Pockets No Liner | DIY Bike Computer Stand shorts I don’t know about you, but I like a longer short with pockets. And, depending on the workout, I like a liner in the short as well. It has become...

Children’s Gift Ideas DIY’d

Many times I’ve made a handmade gift for a little. These are fun to do and really great to get your creativity going! If you’d like some inspiration for that special little in your world, take a peek at these ideas! DIY Kid’s Science Lab Table This was the perfect amount of DIY, repurposed estate sale finds and creativity! This special lab table was gifted to a science minded 5 year old! It really didn’t take too much time to put together, but boy, I had fun doing it! Dollhouse Remodel I found a vintage dollhouse at an estate sale!...

Christmas Decor Round Up

If you love Christmas decor crafting, you may already be busy with creating beautiful things to give sparkle to your home. I love holiday decor. The warm lights and colors all seem to bring joy to the room. In this blogpost, I have pulled together some inspiration to get you in the spirit of the holidays. It is November. Over the years, I’ve enjoyed making these items for my home or as gifts. Plaques This plaque is a great gift and so pretty around the house! I used scrape wood, the Cricut, hot glue and glitter. Here are the details...

Best Chocolate Chip Cookies Ever

I bake weekly and this chocolate chip cookie recipe is my favorite. I have made these cookies for years and I don’t remember where I originally got it. At this point, I have committed the recipe to memory. ingredients 1 2/3 C bread flour 1 2/3 C cake flour 1 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1 1/4 teaspoon baking soda 1 1/4 C unsalted butter room temperature 1 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 1/4 C light brown sugar 1 C sugar 2 eggs 2 teaspoons vanilla 16 oz chocolate chips (I use Ghirardelli) directions Sift together flours, baking powder/soda and salt. Set...

Homemade (DIY’d) Dog Treats

This is a great Christmas gift (or, anytime) for a puppy in your life! Sure it’s easier to purchase dog treats online or from a store. But, homemade gifts are thoughtful and these are a favorite of my rescue puppy, Beau! I have made these for years (my last rescue loved them as well)! It is fun to use different shape cookie cutters depending on the occasion. ( I used vintage cookie cutters from my cousin, Margaret! Use what you have!) INGREDIENTS 2 C Whole wheat flour 1 C oatmeal 1/3 C peanut butter 2T natural honey 1 C hot...