Ocean "Life" Styles - Coastal Living Home Decor, Seafood Recipes, Ocean Conservation

Margaritas With A Twist for Cinco De Mayo

2012-05-04T10:32:00.000-04:00

Cinco De Mayo is tomorrow and when most people think of this Mexican holiday, they often think of Margaritas (I do). This year, instead of partaking in the same old standby, here's a few interesting variations on the classic that I think you might enjoy!

Hawaiian Margarita

Ingredients:

Cup Ice
1 1/2 oz Tequila
1/2 oz Triple Sec
2 oz (fresh or frozen) Strawberries
2 oz (fresh or canned) Pineapple
dash of Sour Mix

Directions:

Pour all ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth. Pour contents into a chilled margarita glass. Garnish with the strawberries and pineapple.

Photo/recipe courtesy Shape.com

Hibiscus Margarita

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon white sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Lime wedge
Ice cubes
4 ounces hibiscus syrup (recipe below)
1 1/2 ounces 100 percent agave blanco tequila
1 ounce sparkling water
Garnish: lime wedge or cinnamon stick

Hibiscus Syrup (makes about 3 ½ cups):

4 cups water
2 cups white sugar
2 cups dried hibiscus flower

Directions for the Hibiscus Margarita:

Combine the sugar and cinnamon on a small plate. Moisten the rim of the glass with the lime wedge, dip the glass in the cinnamon sugar, and shake off the excess. Fill a 12-ounce glass with ice and pour in the tequila and hibiscus syrup. Top up with sparkling water. Stir carefully. Squeeze the juice from the lime wedge you used to prepare the glass rim on top of the drink and discard the wedge. Garnish with a fresh wedge of lime or a cinnamon stick.

Directions for the Hibiscus Syrup:

Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and simmer over low heat until the sugar is dissolved, stirring often. Cook at a slow simmer for 30 minutes. Let stand for 2 hours (or as long as overnight), then strain into a storage jar, pressing down on the flowers. Keeps indefinitely refrigerated.

Variation: Chill a 7-ounce martini glass and prepare the rim as described. In a shaker jar, combine the ice, hibiscus syrup and tequila, along with 1 tablespoon Cointreau or Grand Marnier. Cover tightly, shake well for 15 seconds, and strain into the glass. Garnish with a thin slice of lime.

Margarita Popsicles

Photo courtesy HWTM

Ingredients:

3/4 cup sugar
3/4 cup fresh lime juice
1/2 cup water
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
2 tablespoons tequila
2 tablespoons orange liqueur (recommended: Grand Marnier)
Kosher salt, for garnish

Special Equipment:
4 small cups (recommended: Dixie), 4 popsicle sticks

Directions:
Combine sugar, lime juice, water, lemon juice and orange juice in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring, until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and allow to cool. Once cool transfer to a blender with tequila, orange liqueur, and lime wedge and process until smooth. Pour into the cups and cover the top of each cup with foil. Place the popsicle stick in center of cup (down through foil, which will hold it in place). Freeze until hard, preferably overnight. Remove from freezer and run cup under warm water to loosen popsicle. Garnish with kosher salt and serve. Enjoy!

Recipe courtesy Emeril Lagasse/Food Network

Photo/recipe courtesy browneyedbaker

Margarita Cupcakes

Ingredients:

For the Cupcakes:

1½ cups all-purpose flour
1½ teaspoons baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar
2 eggs, at room temperature
Zest and juice of 1½ limes
2 tablespoons tequila
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup buttermilk

To Brush the Cupcakes:

1 to 2 tablespoons tequila

For the Tequila-Lime Frosting:

1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
2¾ cups powdered sugar
1 tablespoon lime juice
2 tablespoons tequila
Pinch of coarse salt

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Line a standard muffin tin with paper liners; set aside.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder and salt; set aside.
In an electric mixer on medium-high speed, beat the butter and sugar together until pale, light, and fluffy (about 5 minutes).
Reduce the mixer speed to medium and add the eggs one at at time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
Scrape the sides of the bowl and add the lime zest, lime juice, vanilla extract and tequila. Mix until combined. (The mixture may start to look curdled at this point, but don’t worry, it will all come back together, power on!)
Reduce the mixer speed low. Add the dry ingredients in three batches, alternating with the buttermilk in two batches. Mix only until just incorporated, using a rubber spatula to give it one last mix by hand.
Divide the batter between the muffin cups. Bake for approximately 25 minutes or until just slightly golden and a skewer shows only moist crumbs attached, rotating the pan at the halfway point.
Allow cupcakes to cool for 5 to 10 minutes, and then remove to a cooling rack. Brush the tops of the cupcakes with the 1 to 2 tablespoons of tequila. Set the cupcakes aside to cool completely before frosting them.
To make the frosting, whip the butter on medium-high speed of an electric mixer using the whisk attachment for 5 minutes. Reduce the speed to medium-low, and gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing and scraping the sides of the bowl until all is incorporated. Give it a mix on medium speed for about 30 seconds. Add the lime juice, tequila and salt mix on medium-high speed until incorporated and fluffy. If the frosting appears a bit too soft, add some additional sugar, one spoonful at a time until desired consistency is reached. Frost cupcakes and garnish, if desired, with lime zest, an additional sprinkling of salt and a lime wedge.

*Note: If you would prefer to not use liquor in these cupcakes, you can absolutely omit it from both the cupcakes and the frosting with no problem. If you do omit it, I would add 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract to the frosting.

Get Nautical In Your Bedroom

2012-05-03T13:50:00.000-04:00

When people think of beach or coastal decor they often overlook nautical decor. Not only is the nautical style just as popular, but it is a classic style with modern twists. Get sailing-inspired touches such as striped fabrics, boating memorabilia, and a classic palette of red, white, and blue.

When it comes to nautical bedding, classic stripe and quilted patterns are the way to go. Various shades of blues, reds and whites are the main colors. Images of boats, anchors, ship wheels, life rings, and oars are adorned on the pillows and quilts. You can add a little vintage style with faded canvas pillows of old seaside scenes. Stay with the vintage theme and keep with darker blues and vintage whites.

Read more...

It's National Surf & Turf Day

2012-02-29T08:25:00.022-05:00

Did you know that National Surf & Turf Day is celebrated every February 29? I didn't. But I think the fact that it only happens every four years is reason enough to celebrate it. Besides, it is delicious! Here's a recipe for you that I like:

Grilled Surf-and-Turf with Spicy Garlic-Shallot Butter
Serves 6

Ingredients:

1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, room temperature
1/4 cup olive oil
2 large shallots, quartered
4 large garlic cloves, halved
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
6 8- to 10-ounce New York strip steaks (each about 3/4 inch thick)
3 10-ounce uncooked lobster tails, thawed if frozen, cut lengthwise in half

Preparation:

Combine first 7 ingredients in processor and blend until almost smooth. Spread 1 heaping teaspoon seasoned butter over each side of each steak and over each lobster half. Let stand at room temperature 1 hour. Transfer remaining seasoned butter to small saucepan.
Prepare barbecue (medium-high heat). Set pan with butter at edge of barbecue until butter is melted and warmed through. Grill steaks until cooked to desired doneness, about 4 minutes per side. Grill lobster, shell side down, 5 minutes. Turn over and grill until meat is just opaque in center, about 3 minutes. Transfer steaks and lobster to plates. Serve with warm seasoned butter.

From Epicurious.com

Ocean Styles Pin It To WIN!

2012-02-13T13:37:00.000-05:00

Over at Ocean Styles, we have really become addicted to Pinterest and we are excited that so many people are finding us and having so much fun pinning the things they like from our little store! Because we love it so much, we've decided to start a monthly giveaway contest to say thanks for sharing us with the world.

If you already love Pinterest as much as we do (or if you just need a reason to get started) we will be giving you a chance to win a $25 gift certificate every month, just for pinning what you like! Maybe you could use the $25 towards purchasing whatever it is you pinned.

So, you might be wondering, how do I enter?

It couldn't be easier! Just pin anything you like from our website or our blog. It could be your favorite product, article, DIY craft or recipe. That's it. That's all you have to do. Enter as many times as you want... One pin = one entry. We'll choose a winner at random every month from that month's pins. Winners will be announced here and on our Facebook page so if you don't follow us there, now's a great time!

If you're new to Pinterest or haven't gotten started yet, here are the answers to a few questions you might have:

I'm not a member of Pinterest and I need an invitation. Just send us an email at customerservice@oceanstyles.com or hit up our Contact Us page and we'll send you an invitation. Although we can't guarantee Pinterest membership, we're pretty sure you'll be pinning in no time! Once you're a member, it's really easy to get started and there's a helpful Pinning 101 section that answers lots of beginners' questions.

Do I need to follow Ocean Styles on Pinterest to enter? No you don't, but we'd love it if you did! You can find our boards at http://pinterest.com/oceanstyles. If you're not interested in Halloween recipes I pinned for my kids last October or other such personal craziness, you might want to follow just this board, http://pinterest.com/oceanstyles/beach-decor/, instead of all of them.

I'm already a member but I've never pinned anything...what do I do? Well, we try to make it easy for you. On all of our product pages and blog post pages, we already have a convenient little button for you to click. Otherwise, if you haven't already, we recommend that you install the Pin It button on your browser toolbar. It's the easiest way we've found to pin from wherever you are. Once you have the button, it's as simple as clicking around our website or our blog and finding something good to share!

Do repins count? Yes, as long as what you're repinning is linked back to our website or our blog, you are welcome to repin anything from around Pinterest. Just be sure to check the original source!

Beachfront Crab Cakes

2012-01-17T19:40:00.000-05:00

I just found this crab cake recipe and I think it sounds soooo good... and easy! I can't wait to try it.

Ingredients:
1 lb. crabmeat
1 egg, beaten
8 to 10 buttery round crackers, crushed
1/4 c. onion, diced
1/8 t. pepper
2 to 3 sprigs fresh parsley, minced
2 to 3 T. mayonnaise
oil for frying

Directions:
Combine crabmeat, egg, crackers, onion, pepper and parsley in a large bowl. Stir in mayonnaise; moisten hands with cold water and mix well. Form into 3-inch patties. In a skillet, heat just enough oil to cover crab cakes; fry on both sides until golden. Place on paper towels to drain. Makes 4 servings.

Send Season Greetings From The Sea With Beach Themed Christmas Cards

2011-11-10T14:16:00.000-05:00

Melting Snowman Christmas Cards

The spirit of Christmas often brings visions of sugarplums, garland, chestnuts roasting over an open fire and of course, snow. Decorations are often embellished with trees, pine cones and wintery scenes. It's easy to forget that some people in various parts of the world have never experienced walking through the snow and they celebrate the holiday in a warm and sunny climate. Christmas is spent swimming at the nearest beach instead of tobogganing on the nearest snowy hill. For these folks, tropical Christmas cards may be better suited.

Many retirees decide to spend the winters in warmer climates and end up celebrating the holidays in a warm and sunny location. They look forward to the fact that they don't have to shovel snow or bundle up against the cold. These people are often called snowbirds, and enjoy sending a more tropical looking card to their loved ones back home, in part to remind them of what they are missing.

There are many scenes to choose from, and all will remind the recipient of warm summer days and relaxing afternoons at the beach. Adirondack chairs, seashells, children making sandcastles and couples walking along the shoreline are just a few of the designs that can be chosen.

The overall message that is conveyed is the same one that traditional cards have: joy, peace, love and wishes for a safe and happy season. They are available in sets of 10, 20, 30 or more and they can be personalized and customized when purchasing. As an alternative, the sender can write their own message before mailing them out.

These distinctive designs are sure to please even the most particular customers. A small holiday token can be included such as glitter or holly. The recipient is sure to be pleasantly surprised when they open up their card and see the small seasonal gift inside.

Happy Holidays Sand Castle Christmas Cards

Sending beachy Christmas cards doesn't mean that one has forgotten the true meaning of the season. With some of the traditional symbols of this sacred Christian holiday being stockings, Santa Claus, nativity scenes and candy canes, family and friends are sure to love the overall message of love, peace and hope that they receive, no matter what type of picture is on the front.

With online shopping and the internet, purchasing these cards is easy to acquire. You can order them in just a few minutes from the comfort of your home and have them delivered to you. This is sure to save a valuable amount of time so that you can concentrate on some of your other activities and chores related to the season. It's important to place your order early so you can mail them and have them delivered in time for Christmas.

The idea of beach themed Christmas cards can seem a little odd to people who are used to having snow for the holidays. Remember that part of the reason for the season is to embrace one's differences and realize that we are all unique. There are many people out there who have never had the pleasure of building a snowman or drinking hot chocolate on a cold winter's day. They spend the holidays in t-shirts and shorts, not sweaters and jeans. No matter where you live, Christmas is one of the most beloved Christian holidays.

A quick internet search will show you that there are numbers types of beach Christmas cards available out there to go with your beach theme Christmas decor this year.

Coastal Christmas Tree

2011-10-31T12:44:00.000-04:00

Try something new this Christmas and decorate your Christmas tree with the coastal theme in mind. The beach brings a smile to everyone's face just like Christmas, so why not join the two together! Having a coastal theme is also a great idea for a second tree as well.

Starfish Tree Topper

Let's start at the top, the top of the tree that is. Ocean Styles exclusively has 100% real, hand made starfish tree toppers. There are two different starfish to choose from, white finger starfish and a golden sugar starfish. You are able to get them in their natural form or sprinkled with a little bit of glitter. Each tree topper is hand made with Christmas cheer. They are the perfect way to top off your tree.

When it comes to ornaments the options are endless. There are several types of seashells so that means there are several types of seashell ornaments to choose from. Not only are there a plethora of shells but they are decorated in different ways as well. They can be in their natural state just simply decorated with ribbon and holly or decorated in bright colors like pink, blue and green with lots of glitter. Regardless of your style you are sure to find a few sea shell ornaments that will fit in perfectly.

Just because you want to go with the coastal theme for your Christmas tree does not mean you have to stop with sea shells. There are several other ornaments out there that embrace the beach lifestyle. We have all the tropical animals out there, turtles, starfish, craps, and flamingos. If you are looking for something more elegant we have hand painted tropical glass balls. Or go for something cute and funny and check out our surfing Santa's and Sandmen. Of course don't forget the nautical style that includes lighthouses, anchors, and lifesavers.

When decorating your Christmas tree you don't just put ornaments on. Everyone has lights and/or some form of garland. Luckily we have that too here at Ocean Styles. Check out the natural starfish garland that will accompany the starfish tree topper quite well. We also have several types of string lights to choose from that will be a deLIGHTful addition to your Christmas tree.

Finishing off your Christmas tree you will need a tree skirt to go with your new coastal theme. We have a few styles to choose from and they also have Christmas stockings to match them. A great finishing touch to your new coastal Christmas tree.

Now that you have everything you need for your coastal Christmas tree, head on over to Ocean Styles. We also have beach themed Christmas cards and holiday signs if you want to take your holiday coastal vibe a little farther. As always have a Merry Christmas.

Top Off Your Tree With A Starfish Tree Topper

2011-10-18T14:37:00.000-04:00

As the festive season approaches many people will be trying to decide how to decorate their Christmas trees. Trimming our trees and decorating the home is great fun and all of the family can join in. For many people, the color and theme of their Yuletide decorations are very important. They want to find new and exciting decorations and tree toppers. A starfish Christmas tree topper could be the perfect way of topping off the main attraction this year.

The nautical Christmas concept includes using a glamorous starfish Christmas tree topper for all to admire. Traditionally trees are topped with angels, fairies or a large star. The five fingered starfish resembles the star that is so popular at Yuletide. This theme may defy convention but the end result is striking. Christmas trees that are trimmed with seashell ornaments and sand dollars and topped with a starfish become a talking point.

The beach is an inspiration for color, the starry blue sky, golden sand, yellow sunset, pearly pink and grey shells and misty green waters. Any beach is home to a thousand colors that can be replicated on beach themed Christmas ornaments. After having a good look around the world wide web it appears that the starry toppers come in masses of colors and sizes and they are priced accordingly.

Beach and Ocean Themed Jack O Lantern Stencils

2011-10-14T12:53:00.004-04:00

I've been on the lookout for some creative ocean-inspired pumpkin carving stencils and have found several interesting ones I'd like to try. So I thought I would share them with you. Just click on the image to enlarge it to its original size for printing.

Sea Turtle and Dolphin Stencils of The World Wildlife Fund

Seahorse, Octopus, Shark and Angry Fish courtesy of Shedd Aquarium

Fall Can Be Filled With Fun Too!

2011-09-23T13:15:00.001-04:00

It's official folks, summer is over. Today is the first day of fall. For me, it is bittersweet. I love my summers, but welcome the start of autumn and its warm colors.

Let us all take a moment and look back at the wonderful summer we just had. Think of all the great memories you made, the new friends you met and all the awesome adventures you went on. However just because summer is over doesn't mean the fun has to end.

This is what it looks like in Florida on this fine Fall day.

Luckily here is Florida while it may technically be fall, summer never really ends. However the whether everywhere hasn't completely gone cool yet. Soak up all the sun and fun you still can until you absolutely have to put on that sweater. Enjoy your swimming pool or take a trip to the beach. Take it all in until that warm weather goes away.

Sad you didn't get to do all the things you wanted this summer? Don't look at it as a let down. Start planning all your adventures for next summer. Maybe sit down with the family and make a list of the things you wanted to this summer and add ideas that you want to do next summer. Creating this list is a great activity as a family and it gives you something to look forward to as well. Make a calendar with the kids for them to count down with. Put a positive spin on the fact that summer has ended.

With fall comes the start of holidays, and with that comes lots of events and activities to attend to. Check out to see what's going on in your neighborhood. Fall harvests, green markets, themed parties are going on all around. Start decorating for the season as well. Bring out your creative side and embrace all the fun fall has to bring.

Summer comes to an end each and every year. Treasure the fun times you had and look forward the great times ahead of you. Fall is filled with new beginnings and new opportunities. Fall into all the fun autumn has to offer!

Useful Ways To Use Your Seashells

2011-09-23T10:53:00.000-04:00

Should you need ideas about how to spruce up your interior spaces, what is found along the seashore can help. For instance the seashell crafts that you can create can often range from the very simple to the very complicated. Thus during the times that you find yourself walking along the beach, the search for interesting shells that are right for a project should also be in progress.

Stopping by the local craft store may also be in order to gather the supplies that are needed to enhance the look of the items that have been recovered from the sand. This can include items such as glitter, glue, string, wire, beads, ribbons, felt, and Styrofoam balls that one deems necessary to complete the creation of the ornamentation that they desire.

One project that many favor is what is known as a wineglass charm. They utilize the shells, wire, felt, glue, and beads to bring something into existence that pleases the eye. Cutting the wire to lengths of about 16 inches is one way that these artists begin their work. Next they fold that same wire in half and then attach it an some felt to the back of the shell with some glue. After that has finished drying then the beads are strung on the wire in any combination that is pleasing to them. They then make sure that enough room remains on the wire to close the circle off.

This particular project doesn't just have to be used to make wineglass charms. Instead it can be adapted for use as a napkin ring or holder. This will give it a bit more of a decorative touch to the table and its place settings when preparing for guests during a special occasion.

Using a Styrofoam ball that will ultimately be covered in shells is one project that can occupy children. The glue that they will need to accomplish their task is similar to what they use in their classroom. Once they have completed their decoration though then it is advisable to use a bit of hot glue to make the children's handiwork a little more secure. Prior to this particular project getting started though it might be a good idea to also use hot glue to affix the means to hang the ornament up to the undecorated base.

There are also those that use the seashell decorations they have made to make a profit through online sales to interested people. Sine they have access to the seashore and they use what is washed up on it on a daily basis and use that to help continue their endeavor.

These ideas can also use those things that come from the craft store to make a piece of work that will compliment the shells and broken glass that they have discovered in the sand. This includes such items as gemstones, ribbons, beads, silk flowers, and various colors of paints. The finished work will often go into packages to complete a customer's need for a set.

Looking for Seashell Ornaments for your Christmas tree this year? Look no further! Check them out at OceanStyles.com - including our newest addition - the Starfish Tree Topper!

Deal Of The Day - Day At The Beach Accent Rug

2011-09-06T07:00:00.000-04:00

Day At The Beach Accent Rug

Regular Price $39.99
Today Only $26.99

This fun Day at the Beach rug has summery designs - a flip flop, a bathing suit, and a sand pail lined up in a row and accented in vibrant colors of red, yellow, blue and tan. The rug is fade-resistant as well as quick drying. This product is sure to make a great addition to any home during the summertime, as well as any beach house year-round.

Measures 22" x 34"
Made from a blend of polypropylene & acrylic fibers
Handmade and hand hooked with a twisted loop construction.

Deal Of The Day - Seashell Frame & Candle Holder Gift Set

2011-09-05T07:00:00.000-04:00

Seashell Frame and Candle Holder Gift Set

Regular Price $29.95
Today Only $19.95

This incredible gift set comes with one shell encrusted picture frame and 5 candle holders - 2 votive holders and 3 tealight holders with tray.

Deal Of The Day - White Sand Blue Sea Key Holder

2011-09-04T07:00:00.000-04:00

White Sand Blue Sea Key Holder

Regular Price $29.99
Today Only $24.99

These brand new, redesigned key holders are made of wood and tile. Each holds up to 3 sets of keys and include a wonderful beachy quote:

May you always have a shell in your pocket and sand in your toes

* Measures: 5.5"w x 11.5"h x 2"d

Deal Of The Day - Tiki Bar Raised Art

2011-09-03T07:00:00.000-04:00

Tiki Bar Raised Art

Regular Price $24.95
Today Only $19.95

This Hawaiian-inspired artwork features a raised art design on a wooden plaque. "Meet Me At the Tiki Bar" says it all. Measures: 10.5" x 10.5".

Deal Of The Day - Driftwood Shutter Mirror

2011-09-02T07:00:00.000-04:00

Driftwood Shutter Mirror

Regular Price $69.95
Today Only $59.95

This incredible shutter mirror features a distressed driftwood finish. Can be used in any room of your house to add a bit of nature to your coastal home! Measures 7 1/2" H x 23 1/2" L x 5 1/2" D.

Deal Of The Day Is Back - Flip Flop Handpainted Wine Glasses

2011-09-01T07:00:00.000-04:00

Flip Flop Handpainted Wine Glasses

Regular Price $56.95
Today Only $48.95

This set of 4 assorted wine glasses features hand painted flip flops in all colors and styles. Such a fun addition to your beach theme decor!

Each holds 16 oz
Measures 8.5" high
Sold as a set of 4

End Of Summer Blues? Make The Most Of What's Left

2011-08-12T10:12:00.001-04:00

While the leaves haven't changed colors yet, it's still true that summer is ending in only a matter of weeks. Kids will start going back to school and you will begin a new daily routine. Summer living will definitely be over. But before you pack away those flip flops and swimsuits, here are a few last "must do's" before you let your summer officially end.

Throw one last summer bash for Labor Day. Visit family or gather the neighbors together for a small bar-b-que. It will be a great chance for the kids to get out some leftover energy and have fun before they will be glued to their desks five days a week. Everyone can look back on the memories they made that summer and share stories with one another. Have left over decorations, paper plates and other goodies from previous summer parties? Use up all of these great luau, patriotic and other summer-inspired decoartions and party ware and make it a mixed summer celebration. It can be like one big end of summer party all rolled into one. It would be a great way to use up those extra items, and not to mention you won't have to worry about storing them all year long.

Spend some quality time with your kids by creating mementos from your summer break. Work on a scrapbook together using all the photos you took of the different things your family did together over the summer. Everyone can make their own page of their favorite time and make sure to get dad involved too! Create shadowboxes from using items the kids kept from your big summer trip. If you went to the beach gather the seashells they collected and some sand. Let the kids come up with a cool design. You could also create a collage. Say you went camping; pick out a few of your favorite photos, maybe the brochure from your campsite or some of the places you visited. Have the kids write down their favorite memory from the trip and stick that on the collage too. Creating these projects will be great quality time with the family and you'll get to look back on all the wonderful memories you made.

While remembering the summer and all the fun you had is great, you still have to deal with the reality that it's time to get back into the groove of things. Be prepared. Get all the supplies you and your children need for the upcoming school year. Perhaps get a large family calendar that you can put everyone's schedules on, as the extra activities will be quickly building up. Being prepared ahead of time will help save you from a few headaches and mishaps in the future.

Summers come and ago every year. Be thankful you had another fun-filled one with your family and friends. Stay positive for the new school year, as there may be a few bumps along the way. Remember even though the summer may be officially over, the sun will still be shinning.

Easy Seaside Shrimp Spread

2011-08-11T16:08:00.000-04:00

My mother used to make this recipe and it is so easy and so delicious!

Ingredients:

8-oz. pkg. cream cheese, softened
2 6-oz. cans tiny shrimp, drained
1 t. Worcestershire sauce
1 onion, finely chopped or grated
carrot and celery sticks or snack crackers

Directions:

With an electric mixer on low, beat cream cheese until smooth. Stir in onions and Worcestershire. Mash shrimp with a fork; combine with cream cheese mixture and mix well. Serve with vegetables or crackers. Makes about 2-1/2 cups.

See The Beauty In Sea Glass

2011-07-05T15:19:00.000-04:00

Colorful Sea Glass

Of the many items people look for while at the beach, sea glass happens to be a favorite of mine. I remember picking up a piece and asking my mother what it was. She said, "Glass". You can imagine my surprise. All I had ever known was that glass was sharp and not a toy. But sea glass was different, it was special.

Sea glass is made from glass items tumbling in the ocean. It's this tumbling process that makes the harsh edges smooth. A piece of glass obtains its frosty look from being hydrated and dehydrated multiple times over the years. The exact length of time to create sea glass is unknown, however experts have said it can take anywhere from 20 to 50 years.

Red Sea Glass

The colors of sea glass vary. The color is decided by the item's original origin. Generally sea glass comes from bottles, and jars, as well as windows and plates. The most common color is clear, however green and brown are popular as well. These colors are popular because they are the colors companies used for sodas, beer, and juice bottles. Glass beverage containers were popular decades ago before plastic came on the scene. Some of the rarer colors are purple, pink, gray and the rarest of all red. These colors stem from the late 19th century and early 20th century. While there is not a significant value to sea glass, if you happen to find a piece of this color and of great age, there is a chance it may be worth something.

Sea Glass Pendant from Tears Of The Sea

While there may be no real dollar value to sea glass, it does not mean it is not worth anything. There are several ways you can use sea glass. Decorating mirrors, picture frames, tables, candles, lamps... the options are endless. My favorite is making jewelry. Sea glass is able to create beautiful pieces of jewelry that are classic and timeless. Don't worry if you aren't creative enough to make your own; there are places where you can purchase these items professionally made.

You often hear the saying "finding a diamond in the rough". I feel this saying applies to sea glass. You are able to find endless amounts of sea shells at the beach. Sea glass is not as available. It is a beautiful thing to see what nature can do to a man made object. If you are lucky to come across one of these treasures, enjoy it, for it is truly something special.

Combine 4th of July Celebrations With Beachy Decorating Ideas

2011-06-24T15:11:00.000-04:00

The Fourth of July is one of the most fun holidays of the year, and is one of the things that makes summer so special. The picnics and barbecues, the parades, the music, and of course, the fireworks, are part of what make this nationwide celebration so exciting. What would be even better would be combining two great American traditions: The 4th of July and The Beach. With the upcoming holiday, it's even more of a reason to pack up and head to the shore!

Get together family and friends and celebrate the Fourth at your favorite local beach. Most beaches have a picnic area where you can set up for the day. Make it a potluck Bar-B-Que and everyone can bring their favorite dish to share. Don't forget the dessert!

There will be a ton of activities going on to entertain the kids. You can play volleyball, horseshoes, or even set up a craft area for the kids to make patriotic favors, not to mention the beautiful ocean to take a swim in. At the end of the day, the beach is the perfect spot to watch the fireworks. There is nothing prettier than watching fireworks go off over the ocean at night.

Not near a beach? No problem. You can still have a little of the beach with you as you celebrate the holiday from home. This is such cute idea for table decorations. Take any old bottle you have lying around the house or can pick up at the thrift store. Then, using cardboard and fabric, or poster board, create 4th of July pennants for your bottles. Put a small amount of sand at the bottom of the bottle for the sign to stick in. If you have them, add a few seashells in as well. If you're going to be decorating various tables with this 4th of July centerpiece, make each pennant a little different. Add glitter, ribbon, and other embellishments, and give each pennant a different message. You can also use this idea with glass bowls or planting pots as well. Don't have the time to make signs? Replace the signs with red, white and blue candles. If you look hard around your local craft stores you may even be able to find red and blue color sand to use for an instant patriotic look.

Whatever you decide to do this holiday, remember to stay safe. It's always wonderful to celebrate being an American. Have a great holiday with your family and friends! Be sure to share your plans and decorating ideas with us.

Hands Across The Sand - June 25, 2011

2011-06-21T09:15:00.000-04:00

On June 25th 2011, the official Hands Across the Sand events will take place. Hands Across the Sand is a movement about protection of the air we breath, the water that sustains us, our coastal economies, oceans, marine wildlife and fishing industries. Promoting a clean energy future now is the path to a sustaining ouR planet.

On February 13 2010, the first Hands Across the Sand took place statewide in Florida. They protested the efforts of Florida Legislature and Congress to lift the ban on oil drilling on and near the shores of Florida. On June 26th 2010, Hands Across the Sand went national and global in response to the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. A website went up, and events were put together in a matter of just a few weeks before the official gathering. It became the largest gathering of people united against the expanding of offshore drilling in the world.

What exactly are you supposed to do on June 25th? Head to your local public beach at 11:00am. Join hands at 12:00 noon for 15 minutes, forming lines in the sand, then leaving only your footprints behind. Afterwards, enjoy a day at the beach and all the beauty it has to offer.

Hands Across the Sand wants to bring together like minded individuals and organizations with the conviction to organize a Global movement to promote a clean energy future for our earth. The gatherings will bring citizens of the world to our beaches and will draw metaphorical and actual lines in the sand.

If you are looking to participate in your area, go to www.handsacrossthesand.com for events in your area and more information. Also check out the Surfrider for additional information.

It's National Flip Flop Day!

2011-06-17T11:11:00.000-04:00

Did you know that today is National Flip Flop Day? Neither did I, until this morning.

Apparently, National Flip Flop Day was started 5 years ago in 2007 by Tropical Smoothie Cafe. They termed it "a celebration encouraging their customers to kick off summer, and their shoes, by wearing a pair of flip flops." Well, of course, I encourage you to do that too!!

In honor of this wonderful "holiday", I'd like to share with you some great flip flop inspired decor items to bring a little sunshine into your home this summer.

International Surfing Day - June 20, 2011

2011-06-17T09:15:00.003-04:00

There is a unspoken unity among surfers all over the world. On Monday, June 20th 2011, they will come together to celebrate International Surfing Day. It is a day for surfers and beach lovers alike to celebrate the art of surfing and the surf life mentality.

In 2005, the very first International Surfing day consisted of 16 events in the United States and one even in Venezuela. Now seven years later, International Surfing Day has over 200 different event locations worldwide. International Surfing Day was established by Surfing Magazine and the Surfrider Foundation.

Often this day is celebrated by holding surfing contests, doing beach cleanups, movie screenings, taking surf lessons, having bar-b-ques and enjoying the beauty of the ocean. It is a day to show your appreciation for the ocean and all it gives to you. This year Billabong and Chipotle restaurants are getting in on the act too. If you are one of the first 25 people to bring in a bag of plastic bottles to a participating Chipotle location you will receive a pair of recycled board shorts!

You can head over to International Surfing Day website www.intlsurfingday.com for all the information on the day. Look for events on your area, as well as see what the rest of the world is doing in celebration of this day. Also check out The Surfrider Foundation's web site www.surfrider.org. They will also have information on this day, as well as other events that go on throughout the year. Who says you can only celebrate the ocean once a year?

One thing is true, we ALL share the ocean. It's time to come together and celebrate the glorious ocean - the one thing that unites us all.

The Art Of Seashell Hunting

2011-06-16T10:52:00.000-04:00

Seashell collecting is a popular pastime for all ages. I have wonderful childhood memories of collecting shells with my grandparents every summer. It was always an adventure when I was on the hunt for the most interesting shells I could find. Now that I'm older I want to share that experience with my family. But what many people don't realize is there is much more to seashells that just simply collecting. Here are a few tips when starting out with seashell collecting.

First and foremost check out the rules concerning shell collecting in the areas that you are interested in. Some places don't allow collecting or allow it only during certain times of year. Some require permits. The last thing you want to do is start out your adventure with a sour note!

Beachcombing is the most common method of collecting seashells, look for bubbling holes in the wet sand. The best time to find them is low tide. One important tip when collecting seashells is to find a quiet beach with few crowds. Walking along the beach after a storm is a great time to collect seashells.

Depending on the location of your beach, you will most likely find some form of a scallop shell. They come in a variety of colors and sizes. Sand dollars are personal favorite of mine, however they aren't as common as the scallop. Conch shells are also popular. It is often said that if you put the shell to your ear you can hear the roar of the ocean. Some of the most beautiful conchs are found in the Bahamas. Pretty much at any beach you will find a clam shell of some sort. Like most shells they too come in a variety of sizes and colors. One thing is true: no two seashells are alike!

Once you've obtained a good size collection, you can use your new treasures for all sorts of things! Seashells can be the starting point for a great craft project for children. Make a sea shell wind chime, use a piece of driftwood as the base, string the seashells and cut them at different lengths while hanging them on the driftwood. Afterwards hang on your porch or somewhere outside where everyone can see. It will be a great reminder of the summer you had at the beach.

There are other ways to use your seashells are great beach decor. Glue shells onto a old picture frame, and bring it back to life. Use the shells to make a wooden sign, suck as "Tiki Hut"? or "On Beach Time" or even your child's name and have them hang it on their bedroom door. You can also decorate candles or make a collage. Get into the holiday spirit and make ornaments. You can make a different one for each family member. The possibilities are endless for what you can do with your newly found treasures!

Share some of your findings with us. Send pictures or comment on other craft ideas as well.