Whoot Whoot!!!

I am pretty proud of myself so far!!! I worked on assigning partners last night and the night before.. I stayed up way past my Awe Baby time and got the emails done so I could send them out right away. I had 4 wonderful women sign up the last min. That would not have been so bad just pairing them together right??? Well....... LOL and I was confused. I got the same address for all of them :) I had to post and ask what in the world was going on. I have to tell you it threw me for a loop. I thought it was a prank from someone. It turns out they were all family and friends.. so I had to go and do some adjusting of my already assigned partners... so having said all of that I did make a few last min mistakes. I guess even checking them twice when your eyes are all wonky from no sleep .. the mistakes slip through. I want to thank everyone that has contacted me and that will contact me :) I will try to iron out the mistakes as soon as possible. I had several people sign up for both swaps which is fantastic!!! I can't wait to see the finished items :)

Here are the totals:

42 women for the Annie Swap = 21 sets

20 women for the up cycle apron swap = 10 sets

I have made 3 mistakes in my emails that I shipped out. That is so far to my knowledge.. pretty good if I say so myself.. not to say... knock on wood... there could be more Boo Boo emails later today :(

I want to send everyone a huge thank you for joining in on the fun of these two swaps.. I never dreamed the Annie Swap would get so much attention and interest. I just might have to offer this as another swap again down the road :) I knew my Up-cycle apron swap would get several takers. Yeah for going green!!!

So ladies having all of this in mind please please get your aprons and Annie's out on time, because there is a lot for me to keep track of :)

On my final note... It appears that Annie is going to be a bit of a challenge for a lot of you... I had only a smattering of Angels sign for this swap.. so it is very important that we all complete our obligation on this swap. As I don't know if I am up to the challenge of making several Annie's .. if swappers don't follow through. Having said all of that... thank you for letting me remind all of you to get your items done and mailed out on time.. and happy stitching and no ripping ....

Final note.... be very careful of the seams on muslin..they rip out very easily if you stuff too hard.. also I have found a long pair of tweezers or forceps work wonderful for stuffing... lastly if you don't have those.. a shisk ca bob (sp) stick works good too :)

A Lesson in Hanging Toilet Paper

Next time you have to hang toilet paper, just remember this handy lesson. You don’t want to look like an idiot when company comes over:

LOL this just cracked me up when I saw it ... I hope it makes you laugh also.. I know I use to fuss about the paper being hung wrong all the time. Now I just fuss about it not being hung on the roller ;)

Martha's Home Grown Tomatoes

These whimsical sewing-box staples are just as sweet as garden-grown tomatoes, and you don't have to wait until summer to enjoy them. Pincushions were once set on mantels in new homes to bring occupants prosperity, and these versions, with their fresh-from-the-vine colors, would in fact look lovely on display. Stitch a robust heirloom variety in loosely woven linen or cherry tomatoes in dainty gingham. A few dollars will yield enough supplies for a bumper crop, no weeding required.
Pincushion How-To 1. Cut a rectangle of fabric on the bias that's twice as long as it is wide (the largest we made was 3 1/4 inches in diameter and required a 10-by-5-inch piece).With fabric facing right side up, fold in half as shown, and join ends with a 1/4-inch seam. Sew a running stitch around the top edge; tightly pull thread to cinch fabric, and secure with stitches.

2. Turn pouch right side out. Stuff with batting (cotton batting is firmer than polyester). Sew a running stitch around the open end; pull thread to cinch fabric. Tack shut with a few stitches and knot. To flatten, double-thread a cording needle with crochet thread and pull it through the "core" a few times. Mimic a tomato's fluted details by wrapping the thread around the cushion and back through the core several times. Knot thread at top to finish.

3. For heirloom tomatoes, cut a circle of fabric (the largest we made was 3 1/2 inches in diameter and required a 10-inch-diameter circle). With fabric wrong side up, sew a running stitch around perimeter. Place batting in center of fabric, and gather into a pouch. Stuff with more batting, pull thread to cinch, and tack with stitches. Flatten cushion and apply details as in step 2.

4. For tops, see finished photo below for top, enlarging or reducing as desired; cut out. Draw design onto green felt with a disappearing-ink pen; cut out. Using a single-threaded needle, sew a loop onto top. Glue top to tomato.
Note: To sew cherry-tomato pincushions, start with swatches of fabric that are 2 3/4 by 4 3/4 inches. Follow steps 1 and 2 below, but don't flatten cushion or add fluted details. For tops, cut symmetrical, six-pointed stars from green felt. Add loops, and attach them as in step 4.

Taken from Martha Stewarts Web Site ;)

Decorative Diffuser

Decorate your jar as desired-I used seam binding tied in a bow, a small tag and a charm
Place the liquid potpourri into your container-1/2 inch to an inch will do

Snip off the pointed end of the skewers
Place skewers into your container-flip the skewers every few days That’s it! Easy and inexpensive :)

You Will Need:
Glass Container(s) {jar, vase, glass, etc.}
bamboo Skewers {readily available for about $1 at discount stores and grocery stores-

Liquid Potpourri

Annabell wondered why she never fit in....

Poor Annabell was the black sheep of the family. All she wanted was to be like her brothers and sisters but Annabell was very different. She had a tendency to stick out like a sore thumb during everyday scavenging and wasn’t quite sure why.

I just love this joke!!!! I know the jokes old but I love it :)

The Perfect Husband
Several men are in the locker room of a golf club. A cell phone on a bench rings and a man engages the hands free speaker-function and begins to talk. Everyone else in the room stops to listen.
MAN: "Hello."
WOMAN: "Honey, it's me. Are you at the club?"
MAN: "Yes."
WOMAN: "I am at the mall now and found this beautiful leather coat. It's only $1,000. Is it OK if I buy it?"
MAN: "Sure, go ahead if you like it that much."
WOMAN: "I also stopped by the Mercedes dealership and saw the new 2010 models. I saw one I really liked."
MAN: "How much?"
WOMAN: "$90,000."
MAN: "OK, but for that price, I want it with all the options."
WOMAN: "Great! Oh, and one more thing .....the house I wanted last year is back on the market. They're asking $950,000."
MAN: "Well, then go ahead and give them an offer of $900,000. They will probably take it. If not, we can go the extra 50 thousand. It is really a pretty good price."
WOMAN: "OK. I'll see you later!I love you so much!!"
MAN: "Bye! I love you, too." The man hangs up. The other men in the locker room are staring at him in astonishment, mouths agape..... Then he smiles and asks: "Anyone know who this phone belongs to?"

Peanut Butter-Finger Mini Cheesecakes

Ingredients:

1 Cup ground Vanilla Wafers

2 Tablespoons granulated sugar

2 Tablespoons butter

1/8 teaspoon salt

8 oz softened cream cheese

1/4 Cup creamy peanut butter

1 egg

2 Tablespoons heavy cream

1/8 teaspoon salt

4 Fun Size Butterfinger Candy Bars, crushed

1 Cup semi sweet chocolate chips

2-3 Tablespoons heavy cream

2 Fun Size Butterfinger, crushed

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Place cookie crumbs, sugar, butter and salt into a bowl; mix to combine. Spoon mixture into bottoms of mini cheese cake pan or mini cupcake pan and press. Bake for 10 minutes and remove from oven.

2. Reduce heat to 300 degrees F. In a stand or electric mixer, beat cream cheese and peanut butter until smooth. Beat in egg, cream and salt until well combined. Slowly stir in crushed peanut butter fingers. Evenly pour batter over baked crust. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until cheesecake is set. Let cool for 2 hours, then remove from pan.

3. Melt chocolate chips in microwave in 30 second intervals until smooth. Stir in cream until smooth and glossy. If needed, return back to microwave for 15 seconds or so until smooth. Spoon over tops of cakes then sprinkle crushed butterfinger over top.

Surprise lunch :)

Today I was getting around so I could go to the post office when my phone rang. It was the Daddy-O and he wanted to go to lunch. So he told me to grab the Pitty, my mail and what ever else I needed to do as he wanted to spend some of the day with me. Aweeeeeeee wasn't that nice of him. So we went to the German Restaurant called the Bread Basket and had huge bowls of Soup and home made bread for lunch. As we sat and ate lunch dad told me about the latest project he was working on. He said he is going to make a Grandmothers Clock. He says they are smaller than a Grandfather Clock. He was telling me he want to make it out of Walnut as its grain is beautiful. He told me all about the Chimes that he has purchased for it. I asked him how long it would take to make this clock he said about a year. With all of the hand finishing work on it. I am excited to see it but I will just have to cool my Jets... Speaking of jets.... we went by the park to dropped off my latest toy for the society. My dad thought that was a lot of fun dropping off my little toy. He said it was very thoughtful of me to make the toys for the children. I have to admit I am really getting a kick out of making them and dropping them. :) I try to make two a month.. so later today .. I will make my second one. Now that I am caught up on all of my swaps!!! :) Yeah for me :)

Here is my little Rocket... I think it turned out sort of cute since it was a make it up as you go sort of toy :) I put streamers on it to make it look like flames ... like when the real rockets take off :)

I dropped it in Newton, Kansas a small town North of me where my brother lives... lets hope the City Police don't blow it up thinking its a bomb!!!! It was left at the Oker Berg Park.

Wow it looks like the Pitty needs to get out her paint brush for the deck this year. It seems like she has to help momma paint the surface every year out here in the country. It does get a lot of wind and rain and other stuff on it. More so than in the city at least that is what I think. No houses to help block some of the wind. The winds are never blocked out here :) So taking care of the deck is a never ending job here :)

But I do love my deck... as some of you have seen photos of it in prior posts :)

She's at it again!!!

Ha Captain Jack Sparrow... you got nothing on me!!!! I is the greatest black Beard Captain around. Yo Ho Ho and a bottle of Rum!!!

Whoot Whoot.... Annie's Done

Wow this is turning out to be one awful weekend off for me. My sweet Pitty Pat had a seizure on Sunday and we were at the Er Vet Clinic most of the day. They did blood work and other tests and still can not figure out why she had the seizure. We are hoping it was a one time deal!!

She is home now and has been sleeping a lot. That is one of the things the Vet told me would happen when I brought her home. I can tell you I am sure glad The Pitty Pat is home!!!

I was working on my Annie today when all of a sudden the power went out. I lost electricity for almost 6 hours today!!!! All because of 40 mile an hour winds. That wind was just whipping my Beautiful Red Buds all around. Boy did that outage take a bite out of my sewing day!!! Well... since I could not sew I cut out my Annie's apron and some other stuff I was sewing for a couple of swaps.

After 4 hours of cutting and still no power..I returned some of my uniform stuff to the Training Center. That is a requirement that you have do when you leave a street position. Even though I am still working for the Police Dept. I am no longer a civilian street personnel .. I work at the station behind a desk. Answering Phones and taking reports.

I have to tell you .... I had one Double H ... time getting the pink on this dolls cheeks. I even purchased this very expensive brush to use!! I think I will have to have tons of hours of practice....and I need to learn how use that little paint brush better.. I need lots of practice painting on those cheeks.. . I did just what the instructions on several patterns said to do and Glob!!!! Is what I got... Then I had to try and smooth it out with a wet paper towel... There was no hope in smoothing it out!!! Ugh these big ugly cheeks.. Tell me what you really think... I would hate to start over!!! Do you think they will do???? Do you think she looks like she is sun burned???? LOL she is going to California!!!

My little Annie now has on her matching apron/with a fun pocket and I repainted her shoes and made them into high top shoes. I am thinking about putting little bows to simulate laces. I even made her a button bracelet :)

I have just heard that two of my Pay it Forwards have been received... I will show you a photo of them :)

This is a little Bear Pincushion from my own designs. I sent this little creature to Jeanie. She says she doesn't want to stick pins in it because its so cute ;)

Here is one of my little handcrafted owls.. I got this strong hint that my PIF partner wanted one of these.. and Grandma Trish loves it :)

SPAGHETTI

For several years, a man was having an affair with an Italian woman. One night, she confided in him that she was pregnant. Not wanting to ruin his reputation or his marriage, he said he would pay her a large sum of money if she would go to Italy to secretly have the child. If she stayed in Italy to raise the child, he would also provide child support until the child turned 18.

She agreed, but asked how he would know when the baby was born. To keep it discreet, he told her to simply mail him a post card, and write 'Spaghetti' on the back. He would then arrange for the child support payments to begin.

One day, about 9 months later, he came home to his confused wife.'Honey, she said, 'you received a very strange post card today.' 'Oh, just give it to me and I'll explain it later,' he said. The wife obeyed and watched as her husband read the card, turned white, and fainted.

On the card was written:

Spaghetti, Spaghetti, Spaghetti, Spaghetti, Spaghetti.

Three with meatballs, two without.

Send extra sauce.

Rag Doll Challenge :)

Meet Patty Cake Annie

This Tuesday.... I joined in on a rag doll challenge, knowing it was going to be a real challenge for me to get it done on time as I only had 4 days to complete it. My Annie is due tomorrow!!! Our hostess will post a list of our blogs so everyone that was in the challenge can come bye and see our girls.

This is what I have finished so far.. she is not yet complete. I want to put a little apron on her and I want to blush her cheeks. I also want to make her a cute little bracelet to wear. Or any other suggestions any of you might have. I want her to be awesome. She is going to be a surprise.

When she gets completed I am going to be shipping her off to my sweet 99 year old Grandma Peachy in California :) I know this Annie will surprise her, and put a huge smile on her face. She will be thrilled to have her in her room to look at besides the 4 walls and TV. Poor Granny she is now in an assisted living facility due to some health conditions. This will brighten up her days.. as my Granny made me the most beautiful doll a few years ago when she was still up to sewing.. I have her packed away so she doesn't get damaged or dirty!!! I hope someday ... I can give the doll that Granny made me to my Granddaughter....

Ribbon Valances- Sweet and Simple

Ribbons are so much fun to decorate with. They are inexpensive and can add a big punch for the cost. That is my kind of decorating!
This is a project that is perfect for springtime, and so easy to make. With windows open for fresh air, the ribbons will be blowing in the breeze. The perfect effect for your princesses' room.
You'll need a tension rod and about 10 yards each of five different ribbons (the amount will vary depending on window size). Cut the ribbons a few inches longer than you need in order to reach the sill, then tie each length onto the rod in a necktie knot. Alternate colors or patterns. Trim to fit.

You could also do as I did when I made one when my daughter was little, and trim the ribbons in more of a valance length. Vary the lengths. This isn't about precision!
I wish I had other photos of this, because it is really so sweet to look at. I never took any of the one I made for my daughter. I guess that is the perfect excuse for making another one.

(basic directions and photo from Good Housekeeping)

Article from: Blissfully Domestic

I can't help it I have to say this!!!

I love participating in swaps.. but I sometimes feel that I get all hung up on the extras of a swap. Correct me if I'm wrong.. but isn't there something wrong with spending another 10-30 dollars for the extras after you have made the required item. Then add in the shipping on top of all of that!!!

Yes its great to get the wonderful extras... don't get me wrong. I have had my share of wonderful items given to me ;) But I think... or should I say... I need to rein in our extras a bit... Really I only want you to spend no more than $5.00 on store purchased items. Feel free to use what ever you have on hand to make your extras. I am sure your partner would rather have wonderful handcrafted items vs store purchased anyway. ;)

I know I would love these items :)

Here are some suggestions of what you can add to your package.

White Tissue Paper (could be used for making apron patterns)

Free Wal-Mart Recipe cards

Post it notes

Spool of Thread

One Candy Bar

Small package of cookies

One Pk Gum

Handmade tea bag holder

Handmade check book cover

Handmade Eye glass case

Handmade Potato/corn cooking bag

Sew your favorite item and share that with your partner

Small cloth Drawstring bags (nice for the special items in your pantie drawer)

Handcrafted Potholder

Make a pillow cover (sham type .. from your stash)

Make a cloth head band

Pincushion (handmade of course)

Handmade Rotary cutter bag

Handmade Project bag ( simple no frills)

Handmade Grocery bag

Handmade draw string shoe bag

Handmade Needle book

One of those handmade.. scissor and strawberry fob things (I forget what they are called)

Handmade micro-wave heat pack

Handmade Cloth lunch bag

Handmade... sewing machine scrap bag (the kind used for sergers)

Handmade can cozy

Handmade chair cozies.. (the ones that hang over and you put your remote control and TV Guide in it.)

Handmade Bed Cozy (the kind that fit between the mattresses. You put your glasses and book in them)

Handmade cloth boxes (or bowls)

Handcrafted Stuffie

Pk of Needles

Pk of Rick Rack

Roll of lint remover tape (to get creature hair off projects)

Felt squares

Embroidery Floss

Recycle your favorite book or magazine

Emery board

Small bottle of Hand lotion

Take something from your stash that you haven't used yet (fabric,lace,buttons,tape measure, snaps, floss, rickrack, etc)

Old buttons

Send an old craft pattern

Last but not least... send that gift that you got for Christmas that you hated and will never use :)

My brain is fried on ideas... I know my creative women can come up with something wonderful :) To make for their partners.

I hope everyone gets the idea.. small is more with my swaps from now on!!! Everyone knows I have had a huge chop in pay.. and I Know there are a lot more like me out there that wants to play but can't afford the expensive extras... so let back up and reflect... the swap item is really what matters here :) That is what we sign up for not the extras!!!!

Thanks for letting me voice about this very important issue to me. I have to cut back if I am going to continue to play... sorry if this is disappointing to many of you!!!!

A case of Mistaken Identity

Peter was hiding from that nasty dog next door... do you think farmer

Mc Greager will notice????

Sew the perfect working companion.

Two extra-large patch pockets in the front of this sturdy yet stylish apron make it a must-have for working around the house. Bias tape made with coordinating fabric unifies the look.

Getting Started
Every part of making your own apron is fun, but the first pleasure comes in choosing the fabric. Fabrics appropriate for aprons run a wide and colorful gamut, but consider a few things before making a selection. For an apron that’ll receive heavy wear and use, machine washable and dry able cloth is best—stay away from fabric that requires special cleaning and care. If you’re partial to totally natural fibers, go for it, but be forewarned, your apron may require a lot of ironing. Poly-cotton blends spell zero pressing, but if you’re making an apron for kitchen use, keep in mind that food stains, especially oils, can be hard to remove from synthetics.
Take a stroll through your favorite fabric store and let your design sense and preferences guide you. Talk with clerks, and don’t overlook the drapery section and remnant tables.

Skill Level
Experienced Beginner
Materials
Pattern (found at the end of the instructions)
7⁄8 yard (80 cm) of main fabric
3⁄4 yard (68.6 cm) of coordinating fabric to make bias tape
Thread
Tools & Supplies
Access to a photo copier that enlarges images
Fabric shears
Scissors
Pins and needles
Tape measure
Sewing machine
Iron and ironing board
Water-soluble fabric pens
Transfer pencils
Seam Allowance
1/2" (1.3 cm)

Instructions
Copy and enlarge the pattern pieces found at the end of the instructions as indicated.
Cut out the apron pieces as directed. Set them aside.
Make 7’ (2.1 m) of bias tape 2" (5.1 cm) wide out of the coordinating fabric.
Stitch the bias tape to the top edge of the pocket pattern piece.
Pin the wrong side of the pocket to the right side of the front, matching the bottom edges. Baste 1⁄8" (3 mm) from the bottom edge.
Using a water-soluble marking pen, draw a vertical line at the center of the pocket, from top to bottom. Stitch along this line to split the pocket in half, reinforcing the stitching at the top by sewing back and forth a few times.
Stitch bias tape around the bottom edge of the front piece, including the pocket where it’s basted on.
Gather the top of the front evenly between the notches. Set it aside.
Pin two of the ties with right sides together, matching all edges. Using a 3⁄8" (1 cm) seam allowance, stitch the edges, leaving the end with the squared corners open. Trim both of the angled corners, press the seams open, and turn right side out. Press flat, and top stitch 1⁄8" (3 mm) in from the edges. Pin and baste one pleat in the center of the open end. Repeat with the remaining pieces to make the other tie.
Put one waistband face up on your work surface. Pin the pleated end of a tie at the center of one side, with the tie placed across the band rather than on the outside of the band (figure 1).

Repeat on the other side of the waistband.

Place the other waistband piece face down over the piece used in step 10, matching notches. Pin and sew the top and side edges, leaving the bottom notched edge un-stitched. Clip the corners, and turn right side out.
Pin the apron front to the waistband, matching the notches, and baste. Turn the waistband inside out again. On the notched edge, stitch from each corner to the bias tape nearest it, making certain not to catch the tie ends in the seam (figure 2).

Clip the corners.

Turn the waistband right side out and press. Top stitch the waistband closed 1⁄8" (3 mm) from the edge. Continue to top stitch around the entire waistband. Tie it on, and bake something sweet and gooey.
Template Pattern

Etched Glass Jars

I could see these glass jars with the following etched on them. Buttons, floss, lace, fiberfil, zippers, ribbon, rick rack, etc............ I think this would be an awesome way to store your extras. Put them lined up on a shelf and it would be Simply Marvelous Dar-linkings :)

Keep pantry staples organized with a set of glass storage jars customized with etched lettering.
1. Clean and dry the glass. Using painter's tape, mark off the area you want to etch. Attach vinyl stick-on letters and decorative tape; press hard to ensure they are attached firmly.
2. Cover work surfaces (be sure to work in a well-ventilated area). Put on protective gloves and an old shirt with long sleeves. Paint an even layer of etching cream onto glass. Let stand for amount of time indicated by manufacturer's instructions.
3. Rinse with warm water in a stainless steel sink. (Avoid porcelain sinks; the cream damages glazed surfaces.) Remove letters and tape.

Whoot Whoot ... tootin my own horn :)

I am so thrilled ... I received these two awards for Caroline's Crafts, isn't that fantastic??? If you haven't been by Caroline's blog.. Let me tell you ... you are missing out on a real treat. This is a fantastic doll artisan. So run over there and visit her... tell her I sent you :)

Now what I have to do for this award... is to list five of my addictions and then pass the awards on to five more bloggers. So my sweet blogging friends .. I think I will chose 5 people that I follow that I have never awarded before :) So my loyal followers if you want to play along feel free to snag the buttons and awards :) I would love to see your blog wearing new clothes :)

5 Addictions: Pepsi, Chocolate, Sewing, Swaps, Blog Buddies

5 Bloggers: If you haven't visited these bloggers ... please run by and say Hi :)

Amanda

jodybob

Loopy Boopy Art

Meridian Ariel

OOty

Marshmallow Crunch Brownie Bars... Did I say Chocolate????

Brownie Ingredients:

4 ounces unsweetened chocolate
2/3 cup (1 1/4 sticks) unsalted butter, divided
1 1/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
4 large eggs, room temperature
2 cups sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract


Topping Ingredients:

1 package (10 1/2 ounces) mini marshmallows
1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
1 cup smooth peanut butter tablespoon unsalted butter
1 1/2 cups Rice Krispies

Preheat oven to 350F.

Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.

In a medium saucepan, melt the chocolate, butter, and 3/4 cup of the semisweet chocolate chips on medium heat. Stir occasionally while melting. Set aside and cool for 5 minutes.

In a medium bowl, sift the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Set aside. In a large bowl, place the eggs and whisk thoroughly. Add in the sugar and vanilla. Stir the melted ingredients into the egg mixture, mixing well. Stir in the dry sifted ingredients and mix well. Fold in the remaining 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, and even with a spatula.

Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a cake tester inserted into the corner of the pan comes out with moist crumbs.Remove the brownies from the oven, and immediately sprinkle the marshmallows over them. Return the pan to the oven for 3 more minutes.While the brownies are baking, place the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter in a medium saucepan. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly until melted. Remove from heat, add the cereal,and mix well. Allow this to cool for 3 minutes or so.Spread the mixture evenly over the marshmallow layer. Refrigerate until chilled before cutting. Makes 12 3×3-inch bars.

Chocolate Valentino... Did I mention I love Chocolate?????

INGREDIENTS

16 ounces (1 pound) (454 grams) of semisweet chocolate, roughly chopped

½ cup (1 stick) plus 2 tablespoons (146 grams total) of unsalted butter

5 large eggs separated

DIRECTIONS:

1. Put chocolate and butter in a heatproof bowl and set over a pan of simmering water (the bottom of the bowl should not touch the water) and melt, stirring often.

2. While your chocolate butter mixture is cooling. Butter your pan and line with a parchment circle then butter the parchment.

3. Separate the egg yolks from the egg whites and put into two medium/large bowls.

4. Whip the egg whites in a medium/large grease free bowl until stiff peaks are formed (do not over-whip or the cake will be dry).

5. With the same beater beat the egg yolks together.

6. Add the egg yolks to the cooled chocolate.

7. Fold in 1/3 of the egg whites into the chocolate mixture and follow with remaining 2/3rds. Fold until no white remains without deflating the batter. {link of folding demonstration}

8. Pour batter into prepared pan, the batter should fill the pan 3/4 of the way full, and bake at 375F/190C

9. Bake for 25 minutes until an instant read thermometer reads 140F/60C.Note – If you do not have an instant read thermometer, the top of the cake will look similar to a brownie and a cake tester will appear wet.

10. Cool cake on a rack for 10 minutes then unmold.

I joined in on a Siggy block swap :)

FIRST SET

I finished both of my Siggy block swaps this weekend and I thought I would show everyone the finished product. It was a nice challenge for me. As I don't do much quilting yet. But as I have stated before I am going to start doing more of in the near future. So ladies I might be doing some block swaps on my blog along with my other swaps. Depends if I can run two swaps at a time without much trouble... So that means if you join in on swaps we have to all have our items out on time ;) As I know all of my girls are good at getting their aprons out on time... so I don't think I have anything to worry about if I hold two swaps at a time :)
These lovely blocks :) were 6 1/2 inch square blocks. The first swap had 60 blocks to exchange and the second round had 24. The 24 was because more asked to play after the closing date :) I had so much fun making the first set I joined in on the second set.
I have to tell you the second set went together so much faster and so much easier than the first set. I discovered if I put those no-stick clear pads on the bottom of the rulers they did not slip when I use the rotary cutter. When I made the first set the ruler would slip and then that wonky block was over the shoulder and I would have to start over. I had a lot of trash blocks, up until the last 10-12 blocks... stupid me for not thinking of that sooner. ;)
There were 5-6 of us that did both block swaps. So I should have plenty of different ones to make a wonderful fun quilt :) There are blocks coming from all over the world.

Fantastic!!!

It was a lot of fun too!!!!

SECOND SET

Now tell me ... should one use sashing strips and corner stones on blocks like this???? What would you suggest my little quilters!

This is off Plumpy Blogs it :)

The Boob Scarf

Haven't seen this one before?

Tired of not being noticed???

Try the latest scarf fashion and you'll be the center of attention!

I was laughing so hard when I saw this, my sides are aching and I think I wet myself!!!!!

So ladies here is your Wed Joke of the day early :)

Have fun showing, laughing, copying, and paste-ing to your blogs ;)

Still laughing as I push the publish button :) :o) :-) :0) :o}}}

Some eye candy for you :)

I joined in on Booming Aprons Feb apron swap. We were to make a St Paddie's day apron. I had a lot of fun with this swap... I just could not figure out what to make for my partner.. but with time I did figure out what I wanted to make. If your interested in fun apron swaps... run over to Booming Aprons and check out all the fun and up coming apron swaps on her blog :)

I saw this photo and went what the Heck???? Who's Hairy legs are those!!!

I just love it when you gals can get your men to model aprons for you!!!!

Doesn't he look cute in it too!!!! Hairy legs and all :)

My partner says she is not so good at sewing or photos..but I say she is doing alright!!! :)

This was my apron ^ to my partner :)

I think the best part of this apron was the cute little home-made shamrocks on the pocket :)

Now this lovely little jewel is from my partner. I love it. It is sew darn cute!!! My partner says she has just started sewing and was fearful she would not make a good apron. Well let me tell you ladies this is a fantastic apron and put together very well!!! I love the little shamrocks... they rock.. Thank you for this fabulous apron!!!!

Hairpin and Pearl Ear-rings

I thought these were quite interesting for a young teen age girl :)
Easy to make and very different from everyone else..

HOW TO MAKE :)
You will need:
- 4 fake pearls
- 2 hairpins
- 2 small silver rings
- 2 silver dangling ear-ring hooks
- mighty bond
1) Position pearls along the hairpain.
2) Glue.
3) Use metal jump ring to attach the hairpin to the silver earring piece.
YOU'R DONE and wear these ear-rings with pride. :)

True Believer

As we all know.... our blogs go all over the world!! There are different countries and different nationalities and so forth that read our blogs. I know because I have lots of Uk, Australia, Canada, and other smaller countries that visit my blog. Not all of them post... but come they do. Which to me is very fantastic and exciting to make new friends all over the world. Yes I do say make friends because I chat with some through regular emails. :) One I will mention is my great friend Debi from Green Jelly who is from the UK... speaking of her if you love to knit or crochet toys. She has some new wonderful patterns in her Etsy shop she has recently created :) Run by her shop and check them out ;) Tell her I sent you!!!! You can get to her shop just click on my vender's button for her :)

Ok so where was I ... I love having visitors from all over the world visiting my blog... how fantastic is that!!! Well anyway..... I believe in God, and I try to live by his rules of life. Everyone has some sort of belief that they practice in their lives. I believe in God words, and know he has a plan for us..... and how he wants us to try and live our lives.... I try to be the best person that I can be. Sometimes you wonder "God what path are you taking me down???" I know my life of late has been the pits!!! But.... when I have stopped to think about what is happening in my life as a whole. I see the wonderful blessings that are happening in my life right along with the bad things. It's like the Garth Brooks song unanswered prayers. Now you are wondering what the heck I am really talking about. Well here it is... I have some legal things going on in my life, and a new job all because of my injury accident in June. I hate and I mean I hate that job!!! It's very busy, trying and stressful!! And the hardest part of all of this a huge pay cut.....but on the other hand the job has its good points. I am treated very good on my new shift, by my co-workers and supervisors. I have Sun-Tue off, I work days and I sleep nights in my bed. I have been a 3 shift worker for over 20 years. Which meant sleeping during the day. Its sort of strange to be living my life now...as what most people would consider normal hours. I am almost sure that most of the problems with the new job are..... its new and I am still intimidated a bit by it. Having to learn everything that is involved in the position, new responsibilities and so forth. So as some know I have been very stressed and upset!!! But when you look at the whole scheme of things... I see what is going on and am in awe... again you say what does she mean.. well I see Gods love in this whole mess. Here are some examples of what I am talking about.... Since my accident I have gain some awesome blogging buddies!!! Because I can't do the things I use to do... I can't go work in my gardens, ride my horses, do honey do projects around the ranch... because of my medical restrictions and my limitations right now....but here is what is happening now in my life... I have won some exciting give-aways, spent a un-forget-able day with my dad, received an unexpected give-away in the mail, and have had some awesome swap partners, went on a wonderful holiday vacation to my families, got a wonderful deal on hay for my horses, and lastly I have seen birth. So my sweet friends he is in our lives all of the time we just have to be willing to open our eyes and our heart to see his loving work ;) Having been in this accident.. I feel that the lord is making me a better person each day!!! Thank you my sweet blogging friends for being a big part of my new exciting life!!!!
I am so honored that you visit my blog and feel like I am important enough to share your thoughts and ideas with me. Thank you all very very much for making my life so much fun!!!!!!!
You wonderful women Rock!!!!
THANK YOU.... blows a kiss to each of you!!!!

I am so honored another wonderful award has been bestowed upon me :)

Now to the award -The rules connected to the award are:
1. Put the logo on your blog or post - check
2. Nominate at least 10 blogs which show great Attitude and/or Gratitude! - check
3. Be sure to link to your nominees within your post. - check
4. Let them know that they have received this award by commenting on their blog. - check
5. Share the love and link to the person from whom you received your award. - check

Val - Is the person that got me started making toys for the toy society. She started this wonderful adventure in my life. I followed along in her foot steps like I usually do. :) She always finds the good stuff to do :)

Cathy Jean - Hugs to my second Internet friend... You are such a wonderful, loving, giving, and caring person. I am so honored you call me friend. Thank you :)

Sherrie - because of you.... I am very inspired to reach for the stars when it comes to creating dolls. You are amazing and so is your work!!! Sherrie has two blogs one for aprons and one for dolls so go visit both.. you will be inspired!!!

The Faerie Wysperer - You are the one of the sweetest, funniest, giving and just plain silly person that I have ever known and I love it!!! You Rock!!! Thank you for calling me friend!!!!

Paula - I marvel at this sewers aprons.. they are fantastic!!! I can't wait to see more of them!!! Did I mention the other wonderful things that you make??? No I didn't ... now my readers you will have to visit her blog to see..but is worth the visit :) ... lots of wonderful stuff :)

Nadine- I feel like I have known you all of my life. I hope to continue to know you the rest of it!!! You surprise me, inspire me and really tax my brain, you make me dream of what can be. You inspire me to be funny, unique and just plain creative :) Thank you for being my Friend from the very bottom of my heart and soul :)

Tulsi, you are such a wonderful sewer. I just love your awesome creations. I look forward to visiting your wonderful fun creative blog :) I love seeing what is stitching up now ;) I am so glad you joined in on my swaps so I could get to know you :)

Betty aka Fudgie, I say you have to be one of my best followers... I love your blog and your participation on my blog... thank you.. you rock!!! This lady has some fantastic aprons that she shares on her blog :)
So very creative!!! I am sure I will learn a thing or two from you sweet friend.

Valerie, You want to see some very awesome projects ..run to this blog. Here is an awesome quilter, painter and all around clever person. Valerie visited me first...If she had not visited, I would not have found such a wonderful blog to read. Thank you Valerie for coming to visit and showing me the wonderful person you are :)

I can't sew, I love visiting this blog and see all of the wonderful fun creations that come from this very fun and exciting artist ;) You always make me think outside of the box when it comes to creating :)

Princess Moma, I just love going to this blog there is always fun and excitement with her family. I look at her wonderful photos of her children and her family and you just feel the love instantly.. I always have a huge smile when I visit this blog :)

Granma Trish, I look forward to following this new blogger, she has some fabulous aprons she has posted on her blog. I can't wait to see her blog grow, get new followers and friends :)

Nanna Grace, I love visiting Grace's blog.. I always learn something new!! Not to mention the yummy yummy looking food stuff on her blog :)
Thank you Grace for visiting my blog :)

Carla - what a wonderful woman you are!! I am awed by your sewing talent. Your wonderful photographs. You are so creative and I have learn wonderful sewing ideas and techniques from you :) Thank you sweet friend.

Ok Ok I know the rules say 10. But its so hard for me to choose just the required amount ... I love everyone that comes to my blog... so hopefully all of you ladies can continue passing this award along, and make someone else happy :) Pssst if you want this award snag it!!! Its yours from me to you :) Because....... all of you think I am better than sliced Bread!!! No just kidding!!!!! .. I love all of your wonderful blogs!!! LOL speaking of bread.. has anyone made any home made lately????

Don't you even try and act like you all ready knew this either.

I had to go into the kitchen and check this out for myself. Whoever looks at the end of your aluminum foil box? You know when you try to pull some foil out and the roll comes out of the box. Then you have to put the roll back in the box and start over. The darn roll always comes out at the wrong time.Well, I would like to share this with you. Yesterday I went to throw out an empty Reynolds foil box and for some reason I turned it and looked at the end of the box. And written on the end it said, Press here to lock end. Right there on the end of the box is a tab to lock the roll in place. How long has this little locking tab been there? I then looked at a generic brand of aluminum foil and it had one, too. I then looked at a box of Saran wrap and it had one too! I can't count the number of times the Saran wrap roll has jumped out when I was trying to cover something up.I'm sharing this with my friends. I hope I'm not the only person that didn't know about this.