504 Main by Holly Lefevre

Pinwheels...Spinning with Possibilities

2012-01-30T14:59:00.000-08:00

It was that time again...time to get an amazing new die from Lifestyle Crafts Spring 2012 Spring Core Collection. I saw this adorable pinwheel and had to have it! I love pinwheels...both of my kids love pinwheels...it seemed perfect.

First I made a wreath - it was time to let the pine branches on the door go (yep, I will admit it...Christmas was still alive on the front door).

Supplies

Lifestyle Crafts, Pinwheel Die (Don't forget these dies work in all manual die cutters!)
Paper (cardstock) - Solid paper or double sided paper works best - you will see both sides of the die.
Brad or fastener of some sort (I used brads and small wire nails)
Buttons or jewels or embellishments for center (the dies comes with 2 cute little flowers that are great in the center too)
Ribbon - 2 to 3 colors
Wreath form (I used a moss covered one)

Equipment

Lifestyle Crafts Epic 6 with die cutting equipment
Hot glue gun

DIY IT: WREATH!

Cut out your dies in your pretty paper

Assemble Place brad/nail through the holes in order

Spread brad out to hold in place
Use the hot glue to place a small dot on the button and press in the center to cover top of brad (or use decorative brads)
Place pinwheels to you liking and use a hot glue gun to affix them to the wreath.
NOTE: I added on length of ribbon to the back of the center pinwheel and then also attached to pinwheels to the bottom of the hanging ribbon.
I also applied to length of 2 different ribbons to the back of the wreath (optional).

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Pinwheels and Pretzels

When Jules saw what I was making she asked if I would make them for her preschool class because it was her turn to be "child of the day (i.e., we bring the snack). So I decided to put together these pinwheels with some pretzel rods (we all happen to love those too).

These treats are perfectly fun and give us a hint that Spring is in the air (although we have had amazing weather the last few days!)!

Here's what I did for the pretzels and regular pinwheels:
Supplies

Lifestyle Crafts, Pinwheel Die
Paper (cardstock) - Solid paper or double sided paper works best - you will see both sides of the die.
Brad or fastener of some sort (I used brads and small wire nails)
Wooden dowels, cut to 12" (make it easier on yourself and just go to the baking aisle and buy the dowels they use for cakes - already sanded, cut and ready to go - height may vary)
Paper/Washi Tape (I used it to cover the edge/end of my pinwheel stick and the entire stick) - much easier than painting.
Pretzel Rods, candy melts, sprinkles (grab the HOW TO on the Pretzel Fries post - just don't break the pretzel in half) Pretzel food bag (available at craft stores).

Equipment

Lifestyle Crafts Epic 6 with die cutting equipment
Small hammer

DIY IT: Pinwheels and Pretzels!

If making pinwheels with dowel, wrap dowel in Washi Tape (optional- just adds some more "pretty" to it!)
Cut out your dies in your pretty paper
Assemble Place brad/nail through the holes in order
Spread brad out to hold in place

Hold and push nail into the end of the dowel (about 3/4" down from the top) and use a lightweight hammer to pound nail in - DO NOT HAMMER ALL THE WAY THROUGH THE DOWEL

Embellish your pinwheel with a button center (or use the cute flowers that are part of the die) and you are done!

There ya have it super sweet pinwheels.

Now, you can either use the complete pinwheel as part of

the wrapping of the pretzel rod or tie just the paper pinwheel portion

to the packaging of the rod and create a Pinwheel Pretzel.

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I have a banner and another treat in the works with these pinwheels that I will show you soon - I have a feeling it will be pinwheel palooza around here for awhile!

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Don't forget, Lifestyle Crafts is having an AWESOME "I Made This" Giveaway through 1/31/12. You could win: $1000 Lifestyle Crafts shopping spree, Canon 60D camera, Mac computer, and Canon Photo Printer. Go HERE for all the details and rules.

As always...you can get 20% by using the code "504MAIN"

Disclosure: I have been provided with products from Lifestyle Crafts and am an affiliate of Lifestyle Crafts. Please view my disclosure policy by clicking on disclosure in the top navigation bar. The projects and opinions are my own

Tickled Pink No. 83

2012-01-26T19:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Almost-Friday!

It was a cold, sick week at my house...AGAIN!
We all were better for like 24 hours and then right back at it. Seriously?!

Sorry, I am way behind on returning emails from last week
(oh heck from the last 6 months), but working on it!

Visit the

Tickled Pink Features Pinterest Board!!!!

(if you are not on Pinterest and need an invite, let me know!)

Also, leave me your link in the comments

and let's follow each other and be inspired

FEATURES!
Grab a featured button HERE
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Polaroid Wall from {Sisters, Sisters}

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Landing Makeover from The DIY Showoff. It is gorgeous!

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Fab headboard from Too Much Time on My Hands

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How cute is the fabric backdrop from Shirley's Craft Blog

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Sweetheart Pillow case from Yesterday on Tuesday

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Earring Stand from This Girl's Life

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50+ Organizational Tips for Kid Spaces from Attempting Aloha!

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Stuffed Paper Hearts from The Scrap Shoppe

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A gorgeous furniture makeover from Emily's Up-cycled Furniture

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A story of hope, giving, awareness, and how we can all make a difference. I am in awe of families like this. Thank you for sharing Kalyn from ...And I Thought I Loved You Then

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50 Things Every Woman Should Own from More Style Than Cash

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Bakewell tart from Rachel Cotterill

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Cheesy Olive Dip from The Misadventures of Mrs. B

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Goodwill Treasure Hunting Tips from Inside BruCrew Life

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Adorable Woodland Creatures Birthday Party Prep from Primitive and Proper.
What a great theme!

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I just want to say a BIG THANK YOU to everyone
who links up, reads, and visits. I truly appreciate it.

So, go on over and LIKE 504 Main on Facebook!

I am also inviting you to share your

link on my FaceBook wall.

Feel free to share the link on my Facebook Wall.
If I feature you on Facebook or twitter, be sure to grab a button HERE too!

Have a GREAT weekend!

NOW FOR TICKLED PINK!

A craft...a recipe...a tip...a party...a short story...a poem...
a fashion find...a favorite product...your favorite post...
whatever makes your blog fabulous!
That is what Tickled Pink is all about!
{and it does NOT have to be PINK}
Grab a button HERE!
or here!

PRACTICE PINK KINDNESS
1. Link up...whatever makes your blog fabulous. Family Friendly please. Guess what? Your post does not have to be PINK!!
2. PLEASE LINK TO A POST URL, ****NOT YOUR MAIN URL****
3. Pretty please...add the Tickled Pink button to the post* {people need to know what the heck they are doing!}.
4. I reserve the right to remove posts that are offensive or do not adhere to the rules, without any discussion, at my discretion.
5. Please visit at least 2 other links!

TICKLED PINK Now Has Categories
I won't banish you if you mess up, but try to link appropriately, pretty please!

Craft, DIY, Decorate
crafting, diy, decor type links

Cook, Bake, Eat
stuff to eat, cook, drink, and bake

Read, Write, Share
posts you love, stories, favorite things, ideas to share

DIY! Be My Valentine Coin Cards

2012-01-24T23:51:00.000-08:00

I actually have a Valentine's Craft...before Valentines!
OK, it is a repost from last year...but I am counting it.
I actually have a few more hearty crafts...but seeing as how my family cannot stay well for more than 24 hours, I may never finish them...so a repost it is!

I am not a fan of Valentines...but I love the sweet simple crafts my kiddos and I make, and I remember loving the Valentine Card Exchange at school...and later a card at home.

One of my favorite types of cards to receive as a kid were these cards that had slots for dimes all over them. I just did a search and found a few on ebay even!

I so wish I had one of my old cards...surprisingly I do not! I can hardly believe it!

My parents would give us these cards and I thought they were the best. I have actually had these on my mind for quite some time. I just think they are the perfect little "present." Of course I am prepared for my son to just look at me and ask "What I am supposed to do with it?" My daughter will be thrilled - she thinks coins are better than paper money!

So here's the thing...you can make these cards with just about anything...crayons, markers, paint, scrap book paper! I am going to list the specific supplies under each card, but here are the

BASIC SUPPLIES

(I have includes some more specific supplies under

the photo for each type of card below)

Cards (I used watercolor cards or creative, about $8 for 10). I get mine at Aaron Brothers.
You can get card stock cards for much less, about $6 for 25 or $8 for 50. You can also simply fold some paper in half (the good old-fashioned way!)
Rubber cement or glue stick (I used rubber cement)
X-ACTO Craft/Utility Knife
Cutting mat
Ruler
Coins (dimes and quarters)

See Below for specific supplies for different styles of cards

BASIC DIY

(I have includes some more specific DIY under each type of card)

1. Determine design (Lay it out - you may want to sketch some ideas out)

2. Transfer to card - cut out design or paint it on.

3. Determine placement of coins: use light pencil marks to mark each side of the coin.

Can you see my pencil points on the heart?

4. Use the X-ACTO Craft knife to cut a slit from point to point.

5. Cut a piece of scrap book paper or cardstock that is the same size/slightly smaller than the front of your card (this is the backing). Just lay the card on a piece of paper and trace around it and cut.

6. Flip card over/open card and use rubber cement or glue stick. Apply glue to edges of the front of the card and throughout the middle. I made "U" shaped swipes around the slits on the back (see photo - I drew in the area to where I did not apply glue).

7. Take your scrap book paper/cardstock from step #5 and apply it to the back of the front cover (this is to cover the slits and money when you open the card. Press to adhere it.

While you are at it you can decorate the inside of the card - or not! I used my Cricut to cut a few heart shapes and just glued them down. With the scrapbook paper you may be able to see the outline of the coins when you open the card...card stock would make this less noticeable.

(I just realized this is the inside of the pocket heart card, so there is no backing on the front, as the hearts were applied to the front of the card to act as a pocket.)

8. Let dry.

9. Place coins into the slits - you may need to use a knife or skewer to loosen up the slit. I did not - they all slid in fine...but I also used rubber cement which has a little give to it.

SPECIFIC SUPPLIES AND DIY

Supplies for Birdies in a Tree

Water colors and a brush

(and water)

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Supplies for Heart Tree

Water colors and a brush

(and water)

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Supplies for Dinosaur
Originally shared at Sweet Rose Studio Holiday Handmade

Here is a link to the dinosaur template
For a complete dinosaur tutorial, visit Sweet Rose Studio
Template, water colors or colored pencils or good quality pens
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Supplies for Painted Heart Pockets

DecoArt Glamour Dust in Celebration Pink

DecoArt Thickening Medium

Paint brush

(Mix Glamour Dust and Thickening Medium together at a 1:1 ratio and paint on to card. You do not need to use the thickening medium, but I choose to because it gave some heft and depth to the Glamour Dust)

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Supplies for Scrapped Heart Pockets

Scrap book or decorative paper, adhesive.

Use a punch, cut by hand or use your Cricut to cut heart shapes. Be sure to make sure whatever type of coin you use fits the pocket.

Glue the bottom of each heart and up the sides (you want the top portion to remain open like a pocket.

Let dry and insert coins!
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Supplies for Lightning Bolt

This one is for my son - much more manly, eh? I actually made this a post card by just gluing the back or the card to the front!
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I wish I know how to make a printable!
Here is the tree outline if anyone wants to cut it out or print it out and trace it off.
I'd be happy to email it to you too.

Anyway, I think they are pretty cute and am looking forward to making more..for birthdays and other holidays! I will also I am sure have the title of cheapest mom on the block.
(of course you can make more slits to hold more money!)

What do you remember from your childhood holidays and celebrations?

Veggie Chili...Full of Healthy Goodness! #HuntsRecipe #spon

2012-01-23T00:11:00.000-08:00

Thank you to Hunt’s for sponsoring this post and encouraging my culinary skills!

Visit Hunt’s Signature Recipe Collection to find tons of delicious ideas

for using Hunt’s tomatoes in your meals.

My kiddos LOVE tomatoes - pretty much in any form. I feed tomatoes a lot and am always tyring to get more healthy options into their daily diet. "Heart healthy diced, whole, stewed and crushed canned tomatoes are a perfect addition to many recipes." I agree wholeheartedly...I find myself adding varieties of these tomatoes to many of our meals - chicken, stews, soups...you name it. These tomatoes add flavor and nutritional value and make my kids smile!

One dish we love around here is chili!

We love chili...it is a mealtime staple!

I have a few different versions of chili that I make,

but I wanted to mix things up a bit with a vegetarian dish.

I am loving this Veggie Chili!

And so did everyone else!

Ingredients
This is a mild, chunky chili. Using the delicious Hunt's Diced with Basil, Garlic, and Oregano added some great flavor right in, so I used less seasoning/herbs that in my usual chili. You can adjust some of the spices (cumin, chili powder) to your liking (I added more garlic, because I cannot get enough!). This is what we prefer.

1 Can Hunt's Petite Diced Tomatoes
2 Cans Hunt's Diced Tomatoes, Basil, Oregano and Garlic
1/2 can Hunt's Tomato Paste (I generally freeze the other half of a can)
(Optional) 1 Can Hunt's Tomato Sauce (depends on how thick you like your chili)
2 cans black beans (store brand)
1 can pinto beans (store brand)
1 can kidney beans (store brand)
1 16 oz can diced green chilies
1 can chopped olives (store brand)
1 red pepper, chopped
1 red onion, chopped
3 gloves garlic
1 Teaspoon cumin
1 Teaspoon dry mustard
1/2 to 1 Teaspoon Sea Salt
1/2 to 1 Teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
(Optional, chili powder, depends on your taste)
2 Tablespoons Olive Oil

Cook It!

Chop red pepper and red onion

Chop or mince cloves or garlic
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat, add garlic.
Cook for approximately 3-4 minutes, add red onion and red pepper.
Cook until just caramelized, about 15 minutes (just watch it).

In the meantime, empty the contents of the Hunt's tomatoes in a large stock pot. (I had a helper!)

Add the chilies and olives.
Empty the cans of beans into a colander and let juices drain, rinse off and let water drain.
Add beans to the stock pot.
Place on stove at a medium/low heat and begin to heat.
Add the dry mustard, salt, pepper and chili powder (if you wish)
As the stock pot heats, add the pepper/onion mixture.
Stir
Cook for approximately one hour on low, stirring occasionally. You can cook this in a crock pot on low for 4-5 hours.

I am continually working on improving my family's diet

and making my home a healthy place. I want to teach my kids good nutrition and instill it in them early. And what better time to renew these goal than now - the new year!

"New Year’s Resolutions are often tough to stick to, but here’s one easy-to-follow recommendation from USDA’s new MyPlate model – fill at least half of your plate with fruits and vegetables including one or more servings per day of red & orange vegetables. That’s easy to do when tomatoes are America’s favorite non-starchy vegetable!" - Hunts

The exceptional flavor and quality of the Hunt's tomatoes made this chili A-M-A-Z-I-N-G!

It was hearty and yummy!

Now, if you prefer a non-veggie chili, I also cooked up some ground beef for the hubby and made a separate pot of chili - no beans (he does not like beans), added the meat - but the tomatoes and spices were the same. Super-simple!

Visit www .Hunts .com for more recipes, and check out

the Hunt’s Recipe Rewards program for some great coupons!

What do you like in your chili?

Thank you again to Hunt’s for sponsoring my post. Find more ideas for cooking with tomatoes at Hunt’sSignatureRecipeCollection. I was selected for this opportunity by the Clever Girls Collective. All opinions expressed here are my own. #HuntsRecipe #spon

Tickled Pink No. 82

2012-01-19T19:07:00.000-08:00

Happy Almost-Friday!

It was a cold, sick week at my house.

How was your week?

Sure hope it was better!

I do have big plans for the weekend - they all involve getting caught up!

I have been pinning tickled pink link ups on their own

Tickled Pink Features Pinterest Board!!!!

Stop by and check it out!

(if you are not on Pinterest and need an invite, let me know!)

Also, leave me your link in the comments

and let's follow each other and be inspired

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Last chance...link up to The DIY Club Monthly Project Party!

Be sure to DIY and get craftin' and linkup to win great prizes!

FEATURES!
Grab a featured button HERE

Super Fab gift from Emmy Mom - Date Night in a Box!
Perfect for Valentines or any time!

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Family Tree Name Art at From Gardners to Bergers
(she had other awesomeness linked up too!)

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Super CUTE Valentine...Burst My Bubble from The Gunny Sack

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DIY Transformation!
How to make a girls petal shirt from an adult cami at Babblings and More

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I cannot resist some good thrifty finds and A Diamond in the Stuff has some for sure!

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Really amazing tips on a budget kitchen transformation from House Revivals

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A reminder of how important it is to track your family's history from
We Like To Learn As We Go

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Mini Rosemary and Asparagus Quiche from La Petite Vie

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Frosty Faces from The Seven Year Cottage

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Valentines Bundt Cake from The Cards We Drew

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I just want to say a BIG THANK YOU to everyone
who links up, reads, and visits. I truly appreciate it.

So, go on over and LIKE 504 Main on Facebook!

I am also inviting you to share your

link on my FaceBook wall.

Please no giveaways or etsy shops or "please follow" messages,
but whatever you link up here, feel free to share the link on my Facebook Wall.
(be sensible peeps...I reserve the right to DELETE!)
If I feature you on Facebook or twitter, be sure to grab a button HERE!

Have a GREAT weekend!

NOW FOR TICKLED PINK!

TICKLED PINK Now Has Categories
I won't banish you if you mess up, but try to link appropriately, pretty please!

Craft, DIY, Decorate
crafting, diy, decor type links

Cook, Bake, Eat
stuff to eat, cook, drink, and bake

Read, Write, Share
posts you love, stories, favorite things, ideas to share

DIY! Half and Half Mugs

2012-01-15T22:25:00.000-08:00

In the real world, I am sassy and cynical

- very sassy and cynical -

and lets throw in sarcastic too.

Plus, I have a semi-warped sense of humor.

I actually do warn people of this when I meet them.

Are you still there?

OK, good.

So I made those cute Cookies for Santa plates back in December and am having a love affair with those DecoArt Glass Markers...so I must use and reuse them! First thing that came to mind was my cynical take on the world...so I cam up with these "Half & Half Mugs."

SEMI-WARNING - This is a L-A-M-E tutorial. For two reasons...I cannot find the photos (I think they are on the broken down mac) and it is so EASY, there is not much to show!

SUPPLIES

DecoArt Glass Markers, fuchsia (or color of choice)
Empty mugs - I picked up these mugs at Target for about $2.50 each. I also just found a new set at Goodwill for $1.00 each.
Rubbing alcohol and paper towel/rag

DIY IT!
1. Clean your mug thoroughly and wipe with a towel and rubbing alcohol - and then try to touch the area as little as possible.

2. Start your glass marker, by pressing on the tip a few times to load the paint. Then start tracing over the letters on the print out. It takes a minute to get used to writing backward, but it actually adds character in the end.

3. I just free-handed this - I think that is what makes it charming. You could try to copy a font, etc., but I encourage you to just wing it! You may be able to use some painters/masking tape to keep the words straight...but if your wording goes below the line, that presents another issue (you could do all capital letters to solve this problem)

4. Let dry for 4 hours.

5. Place in a non-preheated oven. Start oven at 325F and bake for 30 minutes. Turn off oven, open door and let cool.

(oh and don't worry, I have more ideas for this if "Half and Half" mugs aren't your thing)

All done...now go ahead and have a big ole mocha and
decide what kind of day you are going to have!

How do you view the world?

Tickled Pink No. 81

2012-01-12T19:05:00.000-08:00

Happy Almost-Friday!

I am still lagging. My Facebook status yesterday was:
"Inspiration has left the building."

I am enjoying Pinterest a lot
(as many of us are) and I have decided to try and
PIN the Tickled Pink features on their own board!!!!
We'll see how that goes.
Also, leave me your link in the comments and let's follow each other and be inspired

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Thought I'd let ya know that the winner of the Pinterest Challenge is

Chrissy from Boerman Ramblings

I had a great time being a guest Pinhead.

Be sure to check in with the gals next month -

party starts on the first Monday of the month!

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!Stay Tuned!
I have some COOL giveaways coming up!
I am giddy! And I am tired, so I am outta here!
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The DIY Club Monthly Project Party is back on too!

Be sure to DIY and get craftin' and linkup to win great prizes!

FEATURES!
Grab a featured button HERE

Breakfast Burrito Bonanza from Mom On Time Out

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Soft Pretzel Bites from Making Memories

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A few things to consider when switching to Wordpress or even thinking about it from Domestically Speaking

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Brilliant tip fr touch up painting from A Mother and A Daughter

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How much do I love these step signs from Full Circle Creations!

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If you still love your mustaches (I do - on Tom Selleck especially)
The Craft Monkey has the valentine for you!

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A beautiful no sew pillow from Scattered Thoughts of a Crafty Mom

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DIY dishwasher packets from Lady with the Red Rocker

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I just want to say a BIG THANK YOU to everyone
who links up, reads, and visits. I truly appreciate it.

So, go on over and LIKE 504 Main on Facebook!

I am also inviting you to share your

link on my FaceBook wall.

NOW FOR TICKLED PINK!

TICKLED PINK Now Has Categories
I won't banish you if you mess up, but try to link appropriately, pretty please!

Craft, DIY, Decorate
crafting, diy, decor type links

Cook, Bake, Eat
stuff to eat, cook, drink, and bake

Read, Write, Share
posts you love, stories, favorite things, ideas to share

Smiley Chicken! Shop at Save Mart and Save at the Pump with Fuel Rewards

2012-01-11T21:37:00.000-08:00

Each member of my family likes their food slightly different - hubby requests no green stuff, kids like green stuff...on the side and nothing too spicy, and I like the green stuff - mainly the green stuff. So, when I cook, I tend to make food that is sort of a blank canvas - meaning I prepare meals that generally appeal to everyone and then each "individual" can add their own special touch. (I also like to cook so that we have leftovers for lunch the next day.)

I have a new appreciation for food bloggers with pretty food photos!

On Sunday it was chilly and the family was craving some warm yummy (but healthy) comfort food for dinner. I am not even sure what to call this dish - but it must have a name...right? It is a chicken and rice dish and it makes everyone happy…maybe I should call it Smiley Chicken?

This dish is pretty easy to prepare. I generally have the foundation of the meal on hand – broth, herbs, sea salt, black pepper, short grain brown rice, and stewed tomatoes - they are mainstays in my pantry. We did however need the star of the show – the chicken - and some fresh veggies to go with it.

Jules and I headed to Save Mart to pick up what we needed. I shop at Save Mart regularly because I like the store and it is conveniently located...and now they have the Fuel Rewards Program and I LOVE it! I have been using it since they began offering it. For every $50 I spend (on qualifying purchases), I earn 5 cents a gallon at the fuel pump…not bad! And, since I shop at Save Mart all the time, that adds up quick! The Fuel Rewards program has saved me a lot of money…my favorite was the first time I used it and saved 50 cents a gallon on gas – oh yeah that is impressive!

AND…guess what I just learned…I hopped on over to their web site and discovered I can also earn Fuel Rewards points by shopping at over 700 online shops that are part of the Fuel Rewards Network – many of the stores I shop at already. You can read all about my shopping trip over in my google+ story about Save Mart and the Fuel Rewards Program!

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Now let's get to the Smiley Chicken!

This is a versatile dish that you can change up with different herbs and spices to your liking. If I had it my way, there would be spinach incorporated into this dish...

but I lost that argument!

(There is no reason for the "smiley" part -

other than it makes my kids and hubby smile when I make it)

Ingredients

2 lbs (or more if you'd like) boneless, skinless chicken thighs (you can use breasts or drumsticks too)
2 cups (uncooked) short grain brown rice (you can use long grain or sub for white rice, just adjust your cooking time)
1 cup chicken broth (low sodium, organic)
1 cup white wine OR 1 additional cup Chicken broth
1 red onion chopped
1 can stewed tomatoes (mine happen to be Mexican-style)
2 cloves garlic, chopped
2-3 Tablespoons Olive Oil
1-2 Tablespoon Olde Thompson Chicken Grilling Seasoning
Sea salt and ground black pepper to taste
OPTIONAL: (not used in these photos due to protest) Spinach

Cook It!

Start your rice - add 4 cups of water, a sprinkle of salt, and 2 cups of rice to a large sauce pan and cook for approximately 30 minutes.
You want the rice to be slightly under done as you will be adding it to the chicken pan soon.
Chop red onion.
Chop garlic.
Wash and pat dry your chicken thighs.

Season with sea salt, pepper and Olde Thompson Chicken Grilling Seasoning (feel free to add a different seasoning...but my family loves this one!).

Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet.
Add chopped garlic and cook for about 1 minute.
Add chopped red onion and cook for another minute.
Add chicken and brown on each side, about 3 minutes per side.
Add 1 cup chicken broth and 1 cup white wine (or 2 cups of chicken broth).

Add one can stewed tomatoes.
Simmer for about 15 minutes over low heat

If your rice has cooked for 30 minutes, add in the rice and let simmer and absorb liquid with the chicken. Simmer, covered, over medium-low heat about 15 minutes. Check for done-ness of rice and chicken, if necessary cook a little longer (continue to test in small increments of time). You may add some additional broth to scoot the rice along, if necessary.

OPTIONAL: after about 10 minutes, I would add some spinach! YUM!

Also, you can make it different every time- think about adding peas, eggplant, spinach, even some turkey sausage!

I served this meal with steamed broccoli with a touch of fresh lemon juice and sea salt and I also made up a broccoli salad (the kids LOVE this!)

So, that is it, Smiley Chicken -

a simple meal that you change up!

This shop has been compensated as part of a social shopper insights study for Collective Bias. This is an original recipe and all opinions are my own. #cbias

Be A Sweetheart with Lifestyle Crafts

2012-01-10T12:35:00.000-08:00

I am a lucky girl!

Not only do I get to create projects all the time on my Epic 6,

but every month or so, I get to create projects using

Lifestyle Crafts new dies and letterpress kits!

Modern and sweet take on the cake die - a simple silhouette on a pretty pink damask backdrop.

A more vintage-inspired look created with distress ink, a streamer ruffle, and beautiful papers.

This month is is all about hearts and flowers and cake...and well all the things that go along with being a "Sweetheart!" I have 2 dies from this release the Sweetheart release, the cake

and

the hearts

(all kinds of FAB hearts!).

That project is happening a little later.

For my first project I used the cake - you know how I LOVE weddings, so I used the cake die slightly different than they show on their site, I love this die, but I wanted some more height so it looked like a wedding cake (you can see the example above). Best thing is - you can use it either way!

I first made a wedding journal - I kept notes or ideas and thoughts as I planned my wedding many, many years ago and I still have it...so I thought this is a great gift for any bride...or mother of the bride.

Supplies
NOTE: I used quite a few different things I had on hand. The photo just shows the basics for creating these projects.

Sweetheart Cake die
Nesting Eyelet Oval
Plain composition book
Decorative/Scrapbook paper
X-ACTO knife and/or scissors
Paper/Tissue/Washi Tape
Rubber Cement or Glue Stick
Embellishments: rhinestones,glitter, fabric trim, ribbon, etc. - whatever you have on hand that sparkles and is pretty!

DIY IT!
I used the basic method of covering a plain composition notebook (you can also use a sketch book too) that I used when I made the Dream Journal.

Basically you are simply cutting 2 sheets of decorative paper for the outside and 2 for the inside (slightly larger). Use the covers to measure.

Affix them to the existing cover using a glue stick or rubber cement, let dry. Trim as needed.
You can leave the spine alone, or cover with paper (washi) tape. I bought mine at Aaron Brothers. Trim the tape up.

Decorate and embellish. I used I mixture of paper tape, fabric trim, and a streamer ruffled/pleated. Then topped it with the star of the show..the cake atop the Eyelet Oval!
To make the ruffle: run a line of glue along the spine/tape edge; glue down a length of streamer and then just pleat, using the spine/tape line as a guide. Press down; trim at the end, cover with ribbon or paper tape, etc.

THE DIES

First I used the Nesting Eyelet Oval in a contrasting paper for a backdrop. The I cut the cake out all in one color.

I glittered the stand and hearts by covering it in glue and then sprinkling it with glitter.
Place the cake die pieces on the Oval and then glue into place.
I added rhinestones for some extra sparkle!
Sandwich a ribbon between the oval and cover and glue down.
Embellish as you see fit!

CARDS and/or INVITATIONS!

I also thought this die makes a great card pr invitation - and it can be super simple, but with great STYLE!

I again used the Nesting Eyelet Oval and the cake.

The supplies are the same, just swap the composition book for Creative Cards

- love these cards - a staple in my craft hoard!

One version is more modern - a pink damask oval with a silhouette of a cake (in black), top with a little girlie charm of a pearl, and some tasseled ribbon" - contemporary and girlie!

The other version is more vintage -inspired. I distressed the edges using distress ink in antique linen, cut an Oval out of a vintage-look black dot paper and then the cake out of a pearlized damask. A few more pearls for some fun and then, ruffled the stream again (after rubbing it in distress ink) - I just applies glue to the inside cover of the card and pleated/ruffled the streamer with only about 1/2" peeking out the front. Sandwich with a piece of card stock cut to fit the inside of the card!

As always...you can get 20% by using the code "504MAIN"

What are you making for your sweetheart????

DIY! Welcome Friends and Family

2012-01-07T23:33:00.000-08:00

My front door is right next to this fairly large window.

I like to hang a banner or something there when we have a party...

but now I have a new idea...one that even works for every day!

A Welcome Window!
And it can be changed with the seasons!

Supplies:

Welcome Friends and Family Vinyl, white from Design Divas
Assorted Snowflakes, white from Design Divas
A window (door, board, etc.)
Old Store/credit card to smooth vinyl

Additional Supplies

Window Washing solution
Paper towel/rag
Template - pen or pencil and large piece of paper (newsprint/paper bag/etc.)
Level

DIY IT!

Go checkout the full tutorial over at

The DIY Club!

It is a super easy project - you just need the basic supplies and 2 vinyls. I created the template for frame myself...but like I said this was EASY!

Want to know what the best thing is...you can replace the snowflakes

and continue to update the vinyl as needed with the seasons or occasion!

You know what I LOVE - this was my intention (and I had said nothing to anyone about it) and my son walked up to me after I finished and said

"Hey, mom, we can keep changing up the designs for each season!."

I love that kid!

My pumpkin snowman loves his new sign!

The vinyl is pretty and makes a lovely way to welcome guests.

A fun and affordable idea you can do for all of your parties!

disclosure: some items provided by The DIY Club. See my full disclosure in the top navigation bar.

Tickled Pink No. 80!

2012-01-05T18:30:00.000-08:00

Be sure to check out the Pinterest Challenge!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!
Tickled Pink is back today!
But I gotta tell ya, I put very little effort into anything
but the kids or relaxing over the last couple weeks...
and it felt good!

I am not one of those people who think January 1 - "time to get moving!"...
I am a slow starter in the beginning of the year...
so I am trying to get revved up.
Therefore...I am hoping you will inspire me!

I have become a Pinterest FREAK.
(I have a LOOONNNGGG way to go to catch up with some of you! Ha!)
I tried to hold out for a long time...but I have given in.
Leave me your link in the comments and let's follow each other!

_______________________________________________________________

First up...Have you checked out The Pinterest Challenge?

I made a shrinky dink bracelet inspired by
Just Something I Made's bracelet from Country Living.

The party is happening at Kara's blog and start linking up your Pinterest Challenge pieces! (link party will be open until midnight on Sunday).
Tuesday: I showed off my piece!
Wednesday: Visit Amanda @ Ninth Street Notions and see her big reveal.
Thursday: Ashlee @ I'm Topsy Turvy shows us what she worked on.
Friday: Rebecca @ Better Life Bags to what she has to show us!

_______________________________________________________________

The DIY Club Monthly Project Party is back on too!

Be sure to DIY and get craftin' and linkup to win great prizes!

_______________________________________________________________

Have you checked out LinkyHere
A new linky party directory!
It is awesome!

I just want to say a BIG THANK YOU to everyone
who links up, reads, and visits. I truly appreciate it.

So, go on over and LIKE 504 Main on Facebook!

I am also inviting you to share your

link on my FaceBook wall.

NOW FOR TICKLED PINK!

TICKLED PINK Now Has Categories
I won't banish you if you mess up, but try to link appropriately, pretty please!

Craft, DIY, Decorate
crafting, diy, decor type links

Cook, Bake, Eat
stuff to eat, cook, drink, and bake

Read, Write, Share
posts you love, stories, favorite things, ideas to share

Pinterest Challenge: I Made a Shrinky Dink Bracelet!

2012-01-03T00:04:00.000-08:00

I have to be honest,
I barely have time to make what I conjure up in my mind...yet,I read magazines, scour design websites, and of course...I Pin! All of this with the intentions of "getting to it"...some day. Then along comes the Pinterest Challenge and it gave me a kick start for 2012!
(use this link above to head to the challenge link up)

I have had this Shrinky Dink Bracelet "pinned" since,
well, since the beginning of my pinning.
It was created by one of my favorite bloggers (and people),
Cathe Holden of Just Something I Made and was featured in Country Living.

I used to make jewelry, but rarely do now...
so I thoroughly enjoyed making this because it was a bit of a challenge
(just to get back on that jewelry making bicycle)
and I got to play with Shrinky Dinks! I loved Shrinky Dinks as a kid and now,
to play with them as an adult...shear heaven!

So here it goes...
My version.

...the original Country Living piece.

So I am all set to make this bracelet...

I was ready to print out my two PDF's of vintage images

(find them linked HERE) created by JSIM for Country Living...

and discovered that I only had 2 sheets of Shrinky Dink Inkjet paper left

(That is all you need, but I freaked...
that meant I could not make any mistakes!
Ha! That'll be the day!).

Apparently the other 4 sheets were used by hubby and son to make flying mythical creatures for a diorama.

(I will give them the benefit of the doubt that they told me they did this).

Then my printer whacked out on me...and being a couple days before Christmas, there was no time to run to Michael's for more Shrinky Dinks...my friend picked up a different brand of inkjet shrink film for me (from another craft store) and I actually liked the look of the transparent film, but it was really hard to see the images to cut them out.

Then, finally, just a few days ago I made it to Michael's to pick up the Shrinky Dinks Inkjet paper and we have success again...so that is my saga (I have a story for everything!)

Now my version of the tutorial!

Supplies

You need access to a computer and ink jet printer.
You also need access to a toaster oven or regular over.
Shrinky Dinks for Inkjet Printers Refill Paper 6 Sheets 8" X 10"* This link will take you to Amazon to purchase. I was also able to find them at Michael's (and use a coupon)
Vintage images, graphics, photos, etc. or the PDF sheets of vintage images from Just Something I Made via Country Living I used can be found HERE
Scissors/X-ACTO knife to cut pieces
Hole Punch - I used a 1/8" punch - my holes were small and the 10 mm jump rings just fit through them.
Jump rings...I used 10mm
Clasp of your choosing
Jewelry pliers
Clear Acrylic Spray

DIY IT!
Again, this project was designed by Cathe Holden for Country Living.
You can read the original tutorial here.
Here is my tutorial with my notes of what I learned.

Print out the vintage images on the Shrinky Dink Inkjet "paper." Follow the directions on the package - you need to alter the color a bit. If you use the Country Living graphics, the color has already been altered for you.
For the print outs, I adjusted my printer to use matte photo paper setting set to photo quality printing.
Print out each sheet and let dry for a few minutes.

Once dry, cut out with scissors or X-ACTO knife. I used a combination of both.

Determine which images you want to use and lay them out.

Punch holes - 1. On either side about 1/4" in or 2. on the top only, about 1/4" down. If you are doing the chain/charm bracelet version (see option 2 below), you only want to punch 1 hole in the top, centered, about 1/4" down from the edge.

OPTIONAL: Round corners - For my final bracelets, I used a corner rounder on many of the pieces to soften the edges. I did NOT use the rounder on pieces that had a border, etc.

Preheat oven to 325 Place cut images on a sheet of brown paper bag, not touching each other.

Bake for 2-3 minutes...just watch. Everything is good...
A brief moment of panic...(these guys twisted and turned but all turned out fine)...

Then amazingly, they shrink up and look normal.

Remove from oven and let cool for minutes.

Here is a comparison of sizes before shrinking and after

Once cool, spray with Acrylic Spray...let dry.
Attach jump rings on either side of the baked images, linking them together.

Attach desired clasp on either end. (PS - I need to adjust my clasp by adding an additional jump ring so it closes easier..depending on the clasp you choose you may have to as well.)

OPTION 2 (bracelet on the bottom in above photo):

I used three lengths of chain and 7 jump rings for this version.
Attach clasps on either end: Measure in equally on each side and place a jump ring through all three links of the chain; Measure to the center of the bracelet and repeat the jump ring addition; Divide the space between the center and end jump rings and place two jump rings equally spaced on either side of the center for a total of 7 jump rings.

Add charms after getting your spacing right.

Here is my collection of bracelets...

first attempt: color is washed out
(printer issues)
You can see the difference between the first and final versions

Next attempt - clear shrink film.
I actually like the look of the clear shrink film, it looks very vintage and has a cool effect. The downfalls of the transparent film...The details don't show through as much (which is OK)- they are more muted but you still get the effect, and and if you have bad eyes (like me) it was hard to see to cut out (pre-baking).

Final attempt: Shrinky Dink Inkjet Paper

So, what do you think...ready to try some Shrinky Dink Jewelry?

Be sure to check in tomorrow with
Amanda @ Ninth Street Notions
to see her Pinterest Challenge piece!

*affiliate link to amazon.com

The Pinterest Challenge Starts NOW!

2012-01-02T00:02:00.000-08:00

Happy January!

I am so excited to be a part of the first Pinterest Challenge of 2012!

It is the 4th round for the original Pinheads,

but my first time ( and I am so lucky) to participate as a guest pinhead!

I load up my Pinterest Boards and never seem to find the time to get around to completing these projects...so this was perfect - I got motivated to create something...something that was one of my first pins!(and, I was really motivated, because I have even tried a few more things!)
Here's some details why this round of the Pinterest Challenge is different from past rounds:***************** First of all - No categories. You are FREE - Free to do anything you pinned from Pinterest. whatever you have done, whatever yo have made from ANY or your Pinterest Boards is game! Write up a blog post and link it up! Anything goes!
*****************
Secondly - you can link up up to FIVE projects. Just make sure they were done within the last 4 weeks. This means five chances to win to grand prize package!
*****************
There are still prizes.There are still Pinheads. There is a special GUEST PINHEAD to each round. (that's me people!)*****************
The link party will be hosted on ONE Pinhead's blog.This month you need to head over toKara's blog, Happy Go Lucky.***************** For each round (each month), you need to check inon the first Monday of each month to discover where the party is going to start.The voting will all happen there, too. *****************
Ok, enough of the details. Now to find out how to play!

Here's the party schedule for the week:

Today: Head over to Kara's blog and start linking up your Pinterest Challenge pieces! (link party will be open until midnight on Sunday).

Tuesday: Check out our Guest Pinhead, Holly @ 504 Main and see her Pinterest Piece!

Wednesday: Visit Amanda @ Ninth Street Notions and see her big reveal.

Thursday: Ashlee @ I'm Topsy Turvy shows us what she worked on.

Friday: Rebecca @ Better Life Bags to what she has to show us!

If you don't already have something...get creating! Spray paint, glitter, saw, sew, cook, create and link up!!!!! (just get those projects linked up!)

Monday - Wednesday: VOTE for your favorite Pinterest Challenge piece! Ready for some Pinterest fun?! Start linking up! Or just go check out the awesome prize package that one of you will win!

If you party, grab a button to help us get the word out!

<center><a href="http://www.pinterestchallenge.com" target="_blank"><img border="0" alt="The Pinterest Challenge" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7vlq8MLbcmI/TvP4Dszq61I/AAAAAAAABWs/Ds9KNjOirC4/s1600/Do+you+pin+button.jpg" /></a></center>

Be sure to come back HEREtomorrow to see what I made!

Do You Pin?

2011-12-30T19:00:00.000-08:00

It is coming...

The Pinterest Challenge!

Details on Monday

Get Labeled! Get Organized!

2011-12-30T14:12:00.000-08:00

Look at that...an organization project already!
And it is not even the new year!
Ever since I began the MASSIVE garage redo,
I cannot find anything!

Apparently my filing system of throwing stuff in bins was kind of working for me.
Now I just have bin of supplies and no way of knowing what was where...
then I remembered I had these chalkboard labels from Ten23 Designs.

I have had so many ideas for these labels.
I ended up using them on some "pretty" containers and some basic plastic bins too!

I need more for sure!

Go visit The DIY Club for the full tutorial!

Do you have any organization tricks you can share?

Disclosure: I received some products for free through my affiliation with The DIY Club. Please visit the Business/FAQ section for more on my disclosure policy.

DIY! Hallway Facelift

2011-12-30T00:25:00.000-08:00

Late one night, I decided one of my hallways needed a facelift.

(or botox at the very least!)

Anyway, since all sane people paint at 10:30 pm, I was ready to go.

The mood struck and I had to get started on this hallway

I last painted this hallway - which is a thorough fare in my home - 6 years ago...it was so time for a facelift! The house is in a constant state of flux as it is...but I am really wanting some fresh paint on all of the walls.

I had some Refresh Paint from Dutch Boy all ready and waiting for me. The color is a gorgeous neutral shade called Water Fowl. As soon as I tested it on the wall, I knew I selected the right color.

It is extremely hard to get a photo of this hallway to show you the total transformation.

Just trust me - it looks amazing!

The perfect spot for my Family Command Center and sweet signs!

I just love what paint can do

Supplies
Dutch Boy Refresh Paint, Satin Finish, Water Fowl
Purdy Paintbrush
Purdy Roller
Paint tray
Rags
Painters tape, optional (I did not use it)

DIY IT!

You can see the full tutorial over a The DIY Club!

Prep the walls...Cut in...Paint away

Rehang and refresh!

MAJOR TRANSFORMATION!

BEFORE - Yellow

AFTER- Water Fowl

I LOVE the way this looks...

just made me realize how badly this hallway needed a little love!

What have you painted lately?

Disclosure: Some products provided through The DIY Club. Opinions, an projects are my own. See my full disclosure by clicking in the top Navigation bar.

DIY! Hanging Signs...finally

2011-12-26T23:14:00.000-08:00

I won these amazing signs last years from Tattered and Inked via Mine for the Making.

I have had them on display...just waiting for me to finish painting the family room, but recently, I painted the hallway and thought - there is the perfect place for them.
I needed to hang them and turned to my DISChangers to do just that!

Supplies

3 - 2" DISChangers

Small bowl of water

DIY IT!

You can see the full tutorial over a The DIY Club!

Here is a quickie view...

I love the function of the DISChangers and how easy they are to apply!

They are an amazing invisible way to hang just about anything!

I love this trio of signs representing the important places in our lives!

Come back tomorrow to see how they look hanging in my newly repainted hallway!

Disclosure: Some products provided through The DIY Club. Opinions, an projects are my own. See my full disclosure by clicking in the top Navigation bar.

DIY! Welcome Anyone and Anything Sign

2011-12-26T22:29:00.000-08:00

What was it about a this vinyl "Welcome" sign from ten23 Designs that had me wracking my brain? Well, I had too many places I wanted to use it - I loved the font! At first I wanted to do make it apart of a coat hanger...then a simple (but sweet) sign...and then I wanted it on my front door...and then...well, finally I had an idea that stuck!

So, yes I made a sign, but I was inspired to change it up a bit. We were getting ready to "Welcome" a lot of different people and things to our house during the holidays and so this idea was born....

I decided to add a chalkboard "label" to my sign to personalize it with the guest or season we are welcoming.

SUPPLIES

Vinyl "Welcome" from ten23 Designs, Olive
DecoArt chalkboard paint, black
Foam brush, Rockler
Sanding bug, Rockler
Board, 10 " x 24" (I used what I had on hand)
Paint - I used a quart of white paint I had on hand. You could use acrylic paint, spray paint, or something you already have.
I am not hanging mine...at the moment, but am adding a DISChanger just in case!
Old store or credit card (to affix the vinyl)
Ruler
Pencil

DIY IT!
So this was a super easy and fun project anyone can do!

You can see the full tutorial over a The DIY Club!

Clean...sand...paint..vinyl it!

Here is how we have used the sign so far...

First up....
"Welcome Grandma and Grandpa"

then

"Welcome Santa"

Now

"Welcome 2012"

My hubby wants it to say

"Welcome...now go home." YIKES!

What are you ready to welcome!?

Disclosure: Some products provided through The DIY Club. Opinions, and projects are my own. See my full disclosure by clicking in the top Navigation bar.

Tickled Pink No. 79

2011-12-22T19:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays!

I have cut back on my Christmas craziness (seriously!)
and there still is not enough time in the day....
Last night I painted a hallway at 10:30 pm, organized (one of) my (messy) craft pile at 12:00 am and then made Pretzel Fries at 2:00 am.
CRAZY!
I just finished making gingerbread houses for preschool,
and now to get ready for grandma and grandpa.
I bet many of you have a similar story.
So back to the "I am not going to lie part..."
Sorry, no features today...
time got away from me!

I just want to say Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!
Enjoy your friends and family!

_______________________________________________________________

Have you checked out LinkyHere
A new linky party directory!
It is awesome!

I just want to say a BIG THANK YOU to everyone
who links up, reads, and visits. I truly appreciate it.

So, go on over and LIKE 504 Main on Facebook!

I am also inviting you to share your

link on my FaceBook wall.

NOW FOR TICKLED PINK!

TICKLED PINK Now Has Categories
I won't banish you if you mess up, but try to link appropriately, pretty please!

Craft, DIY, Decorate
crafting, diy, decor type links

Cook, Bake, Eat
stuff to eat, cook, drink, and bake

Read, Write, Share
posts you love, stories, favorite things, ideas to share

DIY! (Quick and Easy) Cookie Plate..It's Not Too Late!

2011-12-21T19:24:00.000-08:00

Leaving cookies for Santa and carrots for the reindeer
is a not-to-be-missed tradition in our house.
Heck, I think I left cookies for Santa until I was like 18!

Last year Jules was very upset that we did not
have a plate for the reindeer...so this year we do!

Now, I know Christmas is right around the corner...but this is so quick! REALLY QUICK and EASY! It took me maybe 20 minutes to paint....write on the plate. Might I add that I am in L-O-V-E with these DecoArt Glass Paint Markers .

I have already done one project with them...but it is not to Christmasy/holiday like so I will post it in January! Seriously thought, these glass markers are so easy to use and really apply the paint well and evenly...so easy!

So here is the list of supplies and head over to The DIY Club to see the rest of the tutorial!

SUPPLIES:

Glass plate - square or round. I purchased my square one at Walmart for about $2.50 each. I know the craft stores and even Target carry the round plates.
DecoArt Glass Markers in your choice of colors - red, green and white for me!
Rubbing alcohol (to clean plate)
Masking or Painters tape (something easily removable) for holding paper in place
Print out of message.

TA-DA!

All done and it is super cute (so hard to take a photo...I wish you could see it in person!

What cookies do you leave for Santa?

disclosure: some supplies were provided to me through The DIY Club. See my full disclosure by clicking Disclosure in the top navigation bar

DIY (Not So) Extreme Playhouse Makeover, Part 2

2011-12-21T01:16:00.001-08:00

Remember my Extreme Playhouse makeover post?

Well, it has been months since I started this transformation..I am getting impatient (with myself) and the little kiddo is too!

So I have moved on to the door. I have always wanted a red door on my home...hubby doesn't. BUT I thought I would test it on the playhouse...guess what I love it and the front door on the "big"house is getting ready to get its own makeover now!

I still need to get moving on the rest of this playhouse makeover!

The exterior trim, interior walls, and floor to be done! I have the proper Dutch Boy paints ready and waiting for the weather (and kiddos) to cooperate.

I was debating on the color of red, so I headed to my hardware store to get a quart - my store does not carry exterior paint in quart sizes, so just realize that I may be using an interior paint right now...BUT you should use the proper EXTERIOR Paint for your projects. I LOVE this color and when I head back to purchase the gallon of Dutch Boy Trim and Door Paint for my front door, I will also repaint this door (if it needs it).

SUPPLIES

Don't judge...I a a messy DIYER!

Dutch Boy Trim and Door Paint (see the paragraph above for explanation)
Purdy Paintbrush
Krylon Fusion indoor/outdoor spray paint, Black (I used the Fusion because I had some handy. You can also use the Indoor/Outdoor product).
Painters Tape
Rockler Sanding Bug
2, 2" DISChangers
Old picture frame or shutter
Screws, screw driver

DIY IT!

NOTE: Some of the ways I have gone about fixing my playhouse is for convenience. This playhouse is older and has not been well tended to, long before we inherited it. I did not want to open a "can of worms" by removing doors and hardware. I painted around and made other adjustments to keep the playhouse in tact and on the economical side.

Go check out the rest of the DIY at The DIY Club!

Just a reminder... BEFORE

AFTER

SO EASY and I love the way it looks....and I love that color...
so I am headed back to get a Gallon of the Trim and Door Paint!

What color is your front door????

disclosure: this post is affiliated with The DIY Club, some products have been furnished by sponsors.

Wrap Up Your Holiday! Elmer's Holiday #GlueNGlitter

2011-12-20T01:45:00.000-08:00

I am the queen of Christmas wrapping...

procrastination!

Every year I manage to squeak out a few tags and cards before the deadline...and every year I say I am going to wrap beautiful packages...

and every year I fail...until NOW!

Thanks to Elmer's and #gluenglitter and a quick trip to Walmart,

I got a jump start on my wrapping...

and it is looking G-O-R-G-E-O-U-S!

I had so many ideas running through my head (as usual).

I was going for a plaid/ruffle/dot sort of theme -

ya know, some boyish looks and some girlish looks (gotta keep the kiddos happy)...

but then I started creating and this little ensemble is what fell into place.

The best part, my little one created right along side me

decorating the present she picked out for her brother.

The one thing that did remain constant is a basic "background" for my look. I have used Kraft Paper to wrap presents since the 80's! So I figured this was the perfect starting point. I also picked up some really inexpensive red and white dot paper while I was at Walmart - just to add a little color!

Of course I picked up some of my favorite Elmer's and X-ACTO supplies while I was there...plus a few more things (of course!). Have you checked out the selection of Elmer's and X-ACTO products at your local Walmart? Walmart has an amazing and complete selection of these products...I seem to discover a new product each time I shop! And lots of people must be shopping - this wall was well shopped!

You can read all about my shopping trip on google+

Did you know Elmer's is having a "Win the Wall" contest too?

Click on their button down on the bottom of my post to enter to win the wall of Elmer's! Take a look at that wall...wouldn't that be awesome!

Now let's wrap!

(Not everything I used is in this photo)

SUPPLIES

Elmer's CraftBond Dual Tip Flexible Pen
Elmer's CraftBond Foam Mounting Tape
Elmer's Scrapbooking Tape Permanent (Double Sided Tape)
Elmer's Glue Spots, Thin Mini
X-ACTO Designer Series Precision Tip Scissors
X-ACTO Designer Series Circle Cutter
X-ACTO Decorative Shapes Template
Elmer's Extra Strength Glue Stick
X-ACTO Designer Series Craft Swivel Knife
X-ACTO Decorative Edge Scissors
X-ACTO Designer Series 8" Scissors (optional)
Wrapping paper (your choice)
Kraft Paper, plain brown paper (butcher paper works too!)
Cardstock (or heavyweight paper): red, green, and white. Use the Kraft paper for the 3rd color.
1/1/2" red dot ribbon (or your color choice)
Textured cardstock (I happen to like the texture, regular card stock will do)
Ink Pad in desired color (I used distress ink in medium brown)
Craft rhinestones/gems

DIY IT!
Wrap it: I used a combination of the Kraft Paper and the dot wrapping paper to wrap the gifts. They all look pretty now because I also used Elmer's Permanent Scrapbooking Tape - it is double-sided, so it is perfect for wrapping pretty presents! See no ugly tape lines!

DIY Flowers

1. Use the X-ACTO Circle Cutter and cut:
5 - 3" circles in red
5 - 2" circles in Kraft Paper
5 - 1" circles in white

2. Ink the edges of each circle - it is not supposed to be perfect and if you prefer a "cleaner" look, you can skip this step. (you could also brush on glitter now if you want sparkle)

3. Use the Precision Tip Scissors to make fringe. If necessary use the next smallest circle and center with the larger circle; trace lightly around the smaller circle with pencil - this is a guide for how deep to cut in to make fringe. I did this for the first few and then just was able to "eyeball" how far I could cut for the rest (it is not science!). With the Precision Tip Scissors make small cuts into the center of the circle, using the pencil line as a guide to not cut too far. Make cuts all around the circles, each one, in each color.

4. Give the flower some dimension by wrapping the fringe around a pencil to curl it up.

5. To create my flowers, I used the Foam Mounting Tape - I felt like that little bit of foam gave a nice dimension to the flowers and brought them to life. Cut: 5 1/4" and 5 1/2" sections of the Foam Mounting Tape. Place the 1/2" piece in the center of the red circle; remove backing. Place the Kraft paper circle on top of the Foam Mounting Tape, centered. Apply the 1/4" pieces of Foam Mounting Tape to the top center of the Kraft paper circle, remove backing. Apply the white circle to the Foam Mounting Tape. Press down to adhere.

6. Use the Dual Tip Flexible Glue Pen to apply a small amount of glue to the center of each flower (on the white circle); add rhinestone/gems. Let dry.

7. (Optional) Finish flowers by apply glue with a CraftBond Glue Stick to the back side of the flower; affix on leaf; apply more glue; affix other leaf.

DIY LEAVES
1L. Cut leaves from green cardstock using the Decorative Shapes Template and a Craft Swivel Knife. I have never used the swivel knife before- it took a minute to get used to the feel/flow, but after that it was great!
2L. Ink the edges of the leaves.

DIY BANDS/PAPER RIBBON
1B. For the larger Kraft Paper band, measure off a 4" wide strip on the Kraft paper.
2B. Align the desired edge of the Decorative Shapes Template to the line and using the Craft Swivel Knife, cut and edge.

3B. When necessary, re-position template to continue with the length of the band.
4B. Repeat on the opposite side.
5B. For the smaller band, measure off a 1 1/4" strip of paper. Using the Decorative Edge Scissors (in your choice of edging), cut each side of the strip to create a smaller band.

DIY PLEAT
1P. Measure a length of wrapping paper 6" wide

2P. Cut one side with scissors fold top half over 1"
3P. Cut the other side with Decorative Edge Scissors
4P. Beginning at one side, make 1/2" pleats all across the length of the paper.

5P. Use Glue Spots to hold pleats in place, by placing one Glue Spot in the fold of each pleat.

6P. You may need to make multiple length of pleats to get the desired length.

DIY STARS

1S. Cut star shape out of green cardstock using the Decorative Shapes Template and Craft Swivel Knife; Ink the edges of the star.

2S. Use the X-ACTO Circle Cutter and cut:
3 - 2" circles in red
3 - 1 1/2" circles in Kraft Paper
3 - 1" circles in white

3S. Ink edges

4S. Fringe edges of the circle using the Precision Tip Scissors, See Step 4.

5S. Construct stars using the Foam Mounting Tape and the same method as Step 5.

6S. Apply rhinestone, see Step 6.

TO ADORN PACKAGES

A. You can simply use a glue stick, Foam Mounting Tape, or Glue Spots to place multiple flowers all over the package. (not shown)

B. RIBBON: Cut a length of decorative ribbon long enough to wrap around the package. Use a glue stick or Glue Spots to place the ribbon about 1/3 way down the package and hold in place; Apply approximately 1" of Foam Mounting Tape to the back of the flower and then place on the ribbon. (back, center)

C. WIDE BAND AND FLOWER: After cutting wide band of Kraft paper, wrap around the package and secure on the back side using a CraftBond Glue Stick or Glue Spots; place flower/leaf combination on top of the band using 1" of Foam Mounting Tape. (shown, left)

D. PLEATS: Apply Glue Stick to the top back edge of the pleated paper; place in the desired position on the package - begin on the front and then wrap around the sides. Secure with CraftBond Glue Stick. Apply the smaller band of green cardstock with glue stick; cover band with glue, and line up top edge of pleat and band; press down; wrap around package and affix with glue stick. Place flower using the Foam Mounting Tape in desired position. (shown, right)

STARS: Place a length of ribbon vertically on the package and affix with Glue Spots or Glue Stick. Use the Elmer's CraftBond Dual Tip Flexible Pen and apply glue to three positions on the ribbon. Set the stars on the glue and let dry.

There ya have it...some pretty packages...

all ready to go under the Christmas tree.

No one will believe my wrapping is done...

until they read this post!

Are you wrapped and ready to go?????

Don't miss out, be sure to follow along:

www.elmers.com

www.facebook.com/elmers

http://twitter.com/elmers

www.facebook.com/xacto

Disclosure: This project has been compensated as part of a social shopper insights study for #ElmersHoliday #gluenglitter #collectivebias #CBias. All projects and all opinions are my own.

DIY! "JOY"FUL Fabric Trees

2011-12-18T23:33:00.000-08:00

I am also a little obsessed with trees this year. I had plans to get crazy with little vignettes of trees everywhere...well, it did not happen...yet (Every year I am crafting and creating until the last minute...well, I still have 6 days left...so technically not the last minute, right? I still have time.)

Anyway, I still LOVE my trio of trees from last year, but had to make more trees!! Now these trees are very different than last years trees...

THESE ARE SO EASY TO MAKE.

It took me about 30 minutes to make them all!

I am sharing this tutorial over at The DIY Club...but here is a quickie look!

SUPPLIES

3 - Styrofoam Crafts 5 7/8" Cones
1 Sheet Canvas Corp Chalk Stock
Gorilla Glue Super Glue
1 box floral pins with pearl head (you may or may not use the entire box - I used about 20 per tree)
Cotton fabric - I used scraps around the house. You only need about 1/4 yard
6 - Skewers (or 3 - skewers and 3 - Toothpicks)
3 - Pearls or beads Glue stick

DIY IT

See the FULL TUTORIAL HERE at THE DIY CLUB

But if you can rip and pin/stick things in Styrofoam...you can do this craft

Add some FUN with Sweet Little Pennants of JOY!!

I made some pennant ornaments using Canvas Corp paper the other day and these tree topper pennants were inspired by those.

Now, I made 3 trees and wrote JOY on the pennant,
but these are easily adaptable to any wording and so EASY to finish.

What are you lovin' this holiday season?

disclosure: some products were received via my affiliation with The DIY Club. See me full disclosure by clicking on disclosure in the top navigation bar

Tower of Treats! Serve Up Some Yumminess

2011-12-17T00:01:00.000-08:00

I love sweets! I love making them and serving them. I am always looking for new ways to display and serve them. I received a Cupcake Tree from Canvas Corp. This is a fun and cute 3 tiered tower for serving cupcakes...but it is good for so many things...

I used it at my Bridesmaids party for candies and treats...

I also made another for the mini cupcakes at the SoCal Social...

And now I am using if for Christmas!

I think it is adorable for serving just about anything...but can you imagine how cute this would be for a cookie exchange...and guess what I have New years Eve Plans for it too!

Supplies:

Cupcake Tree from Canvas Corp.
Decorative paper (without flocking or glitter - plain is best). I used scrap book paper (and I used Canvas Corp paper for the Cookies Tower)
Scissors and or X-ACTO knife
Adhesive: I used hot glue and a glue stick
Trim for all: I used - Canvas Corp corrugated paper - white - 12x12, a distress ink pad, black grossgrain ribbon, lightweight craft paper.

A. For the Bridesmaid party: a rosette of the craft paper and a vintage graphic.

Chocolates and candies at the Parisian Themed Bridesmaids party

B. For the SoCal Social - canvas paper printed with the hibiscus "logo."

Mini Cupcakes at the SoCal Social

C. For the Holiday Treat Tower - Canvas Corp paper, rosettes cut with my Lifestyle Crafts Epic 6, buttons.

Cookies and boxes of surprise treats for the holidays!

DIY IT!

The Tree comes already cut and ready to be put together - you get to decorate it to match your event. As much as I wanted to add glitter and sparkle, I did not. I used only accessories that would not interfere with the food or taint the food (no glitter or fuzzy trim). Here is how to make it!

Go read all about how to create a fun and fabulous Cupcake Tree (or Tower of Treats!) at The DIY Club!

What is Your Favorite cookie???

Disclosure: Some products have been provided to me through The DIY Club. See my disclosure policy by clicking "disclosure" in the top navigation bar

WINNERS! Purdy Paintbrushes and Elmer's Walmart Gift Card

2011-12-16T22:27:00.000-08:00

THANK YOU to all that entered the recent giveaways!
I use random.org to pick my winners
**************
The winner of the Purdy Paintbrush Set is Mary Ellen from Mary's Meanderings
**************

The winner of the Walmart Gift Card provided by Elmer's is Debby from Cozy Blanket

Please send me an email with your shipping information.

THANKS AGAIN to these great companies and to all of you!