Yours Truli Blogs

Happy Thanksgiving!

truli@yourstruli.com (YoursTruli) — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 17:06:00 +0000

From ~Yours Truli

Grandma's Secret Dumpling Recipe

truli@yourstruli.com (YoursTruli) — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 14:05:00 +0000

Diane generously shares with us her great grandmother's from scratch dumpling recipe! One of those very special recipes all of us really wish we had to share with our families and now we do ~ Thanks so much Diane! The perfect complement and oh so special dish to serve along side of your fabulous turkey for your wonderful Handmade Holiday Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners!

BY: Diane of The Shutterbug Eye Photography
I am a photographer from Naperville, IL. My photographs are mostly of nature, animals (both domestic and wild), birds, insects and flowers. I am a mother of one, and work full time but photography is my passion.

~*~
"This is a family recipe for dumplings that is passed down from my great grandma to my grandma to my mom to me. The grandmas were so very secretive of it as the felt it was the card they had to get family to come visit, so untrue. I think it should be shared."

Grandma's Secret Dumpling Recipe

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Ingredients:
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4 Slices of Diced white bread
(use a dense white bread)
2 Cups Flour
1/2 - 1 Tsp Salt
1 cup milk
1/2 pack - Dry yeast pack
1/4 pound of butter
2 Eggs

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Baking Directions:
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Brown diced bread in butter and set aside.

Mix Flour and Salt and set aside

Warm milk to 110 degree F and add yeast and let set a few minutes.

Melt butter.

Beat 2 eggs and the melted butter into the milk/yeast mix.

Add flour and salt to a bowl and make a well in the flour.

Pour the milk mix into the well and mix with a wooden spoon.

Add milk or flour to get a firm consistency. Should be firm but easily workable (should have a shine to it but hold together).

Mix in the diced bread. Let stand a few minutes and drop into boiling water.

Boil 20 minutes with lid on - no peek!

ENJOY!
Diane

Let Them Eat Cake!

truli@yourstruli.com (YoursTruli) — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 10:19:00 +0000

This sounds like the perfect dessert to top off your fabulous Holiday dinners or a wonderful treat to share along with a great cup of coffee to warm up your Holiday guest when they drop by!

BY: Carla of BAKidagain
I have been making glow in the dark ornaments since 2001. For a few years before that the ornaments didn't glow in the dark but were still loved and cherished by many. They're NOT just for Christmas, they make a GREAT gift for ANY occassion! There are now 1,000 designs that we are trying to make.

~*~
Carmel Apple Cake

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Ingredients:
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1/2 C butter or margerine

1/4 C whipping cream

1 C packed brown sugar

1/2 C chopped Pecans (we've also used walnuts or cashews)

2 large cooking apples *peeled, cored & sliced (about 2/3 cup)

1 box Betty Crocker Super Moist Mix

1 1/4 C water

1/3 C vegetable oil

3 eggs

1/4 tsp apple pie spice

Topping:

2/3 C frosting

1/2 C Frozen whipped cream (thawed)

Carmel Topping if desired (it's YUMMY!)

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Baking Directions:
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PreHeat oven to 350* F

In heavy 1 quart saucepan, cook butter, whipping cream and brown sugar over low heat, stirring occasionally, just until butter is melted. Pour into 13x9-inch pan. Sprinkle with nut; top with sliced apples.

In large bowl, beat cake mix, water, eggs, oil, eggs and apple pie spice with electric mixer on low speed until moistened. Beat on medium speed 2 minutes. Carefully spoon batter over apple mixture.

Bake 40-45 minutes or until toothpick inserted in middle comes out clean. Cool IN pan for 10 minutes.

Loosen sides of cake from pan. Place heatproof serving platter upside down on pan. CAREFULLY turn platter and pan over. Let pan remain over cake for about 1 minute so carmel can drizzle over cake. Remove pan.

In small bowl, mix frosting and whipped topping. Serve warm cake topped with frosting mixture and drizzle with caramel topping.

Holiday Chocolate Truffle Delight

truli@yourstruli.com (YoursTruli) — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 13:34:00 +0000

Michelle brings us a wonderful recipe for those hard to please men in our lives and my guess the women too ~ because who doesn't LOVE chocolate! This is one delightfully sweet treat you will have to hide a little away to enjoy over the holidays for yourself! WOW I have always wanted to know how to make these thanks Michelle for sharing this fantastic recipe with all of us I can't wait to try it!

BY: Michelle of Creative Critters
My studio is called CreativeCritters and all my work is carefully hand crafted. I make polymer clay sculptures, mixed media jewelry, adorable hand-sewn cloth dolls, knit stuffed toys, polymer clay pen sets, and World of Warcraft plush characters, among other things. Each piece is individually handcrafted, and each is unique.

~*~
"I finally found something that my father in law just loves, and he's a VERY picky man, especially when it comes to food. One year I decided to try my hand at making homemade truffles. Dad absolutely loved them, and I've had to make him his own special box every Christmas since then. He even hides his box when he gets home (Mom told me this)! So if you've got a hard to please father in law, try this recipe out on him!"

Chocolate Truffles
Makes 35-45 truffles

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Ingredients:
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20 oz. semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 Tablespoons unsalted butter
1 cup heavy cream

1) Make the filling
Place 8 oz. of chocolate chips and the butter in a large bowl. In a small saucepan over low heat, bring the cream to a simmer. Remove from heat and pour half the cream into the bowl. As the chocolate melts, slowly whisk the mixture together until smooth. Then gradually add the remaining cream until it's completely incorporated and the ganache is thick and shiny.

2)Form the truffles
Pour the ganache into a 2" deep baking pan, spread evenly and place in the freezer for 30 minutes or until set (it should have the consistency of fudge). Using a melon baller or small spoon, form rounds and place them on a baking sheet lined with waxed paper. Let the truffles harden in the freezer for about 15 minutes. After removing from the freezer, roll truffles between your hands into marble sized spheres, squeezing slightly (try to do this quickly or they'll become too soft). Now you can dust them with powdered sugar or cocoa, which is Dad's favorite way to have them. You can also coat them with chocolate, which Mom and my brother in law prefer.

3) Make the chocolate coating
Let the truffles rest in the freezer while you make the chocolate glaze. Place the remaining chocolate pieces in a large bowl over a saucepan of simmering water and stir occasionally until the chocolate is completely melted. Remove from heat and let cool at room temp., stirring occasionally until the chocolate starts to set at the edge of the bowl. Drop the truffles into the melted chocolate and retrieve them with a fork, allowing any excess chocolate to drip off. You can leave them with a plain chocolate coating or dust them with cocoa, powdered sugar, or nuts.

Truffles will keep for about 2 weeks chilled or at room temp when stored in an airtight container
(although Dad's never last that long!).

Make a Spicy Orange Pomander

truli@yourstruli.com (YoursTruli) — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 10:55:00 +0000

The pomander clove-studded citrus fruit is a traditional Christmas ornament and New Year’s gift. As early as the 17th and 18th century the decorated orange stuck with cloves was often mentioned as a Christmas or New Year’s custom. The Victorians hung pomanders in their closets to ward off moths. Every Thanksgiving I make the spicy orange pomanders and come Christmas time they are dried and ready to be put out in a large festive bowl for my family and friends to take home as a thoughtful handcrafted gift and the rich spicy fragrance will last for years! I thought you might enjoy making your own special pomanders this year and because they are so simple to make it's also a nice project to do with your children or a great activity for children to make in supervised groups too.

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Traditional Spicy Orange Pomanders
Makes 6 pomanders

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Materials
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6 oranges
(select firm, unblemished ones)
or lemons or limes may be used instead

1/2 - cup ground cinnamon

1/4 - cup ground cloves

1 - tablespoon ground allspice

1 - tablespoon ground nutmeg

1 - tablespoon ground coriander

2 - tablespoons ground orris root
(this, along with the spices act as a preservative)

1/4 to 1/2 - cup whole large head cloves

A toothpick, wooden skewer or large needle to make the holes

Large heavy brown paper (grocery type) bag

Ribbon for hanging pomanders

*Alternative to using orris root - 8 drops sandalwood oil (a natural preservative).
In traditional pomanders, Orris root is used to act as a preservative and scent enhancer. Orris root is from the Iris bulb that has been dried and ground to a fine powder. Some people have shown allergic reactions to Orris root. You can use sandalwood oil as an alternative preserver.

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Instructions:
~*~
Use your toothpick, wooden skewer or large needle to poke holes into the orange, about 1/8 inch apart, and then push a clove into each hole. A traditional pomander covers the entire orange with cloves, but you can make fun patterns or even ones with monograms on them, be sure to draw your pattern on the orange before you begin. When covering the entire orange I have found it is easiest to work on one small area at a time and continue until the orange is completely covered.

**Mix all of the ground spices and orris root (or sandalwood oil) thoroughly in your large heavy brown paper (grocery type) bag and roll your clove-studded oranges in it, filling the spaces between the cloves as much as possible. Leave your pomanders in the bag with the top open in a warm, dry room and turn daily during the drying process, around 3 to 4 weeks, until the skin becomes hard. As the orange begins to dry their natural scent will blend with the scent of the cloves, nutmeg, allspice, and cinnamon resulting in a wonderful orange spice fragrance! You will know when they are ready, your pomanders will have shrunk a bit and will be dry and hard. Shake off excess spice powder (any excess can be saved and used again).

**OR another method I have read recently, if you would like to try drying your pomanders without the spices, is to simply place your finished clove studded orange pomanders on newspaper in a warm, dry, well-ventilated location and turn them daily until dried. I have never tried this method myself and I think I will give it a try this year with a few pomanders to see.

Tie around the pomander with a ribbon if desired and hang in wardrobes, cupboards, Christmas tree or display in a bowl. I give them as gifts at Christmas time but you can savor the wonderful spicy fragrance filling your house over the Christmas holiday and give them as a traditional New Years Eve gift!

A pomander's scent usually lasts for several years but they can be refreshed by dipping the pomander in warm water, then rolling it in fresh spices mixed with a drop or two of cinnamon or clove oil . Leave the pomander in the mixture for a few days then use as before.

Perfect Package Decorating Idea

truli@yourstruli.com (YoursTruli) — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 11:58:00 +0000

From Bella Sweet comes this great holiday gift package decorating tip using small clear glass Christmas ornaments! You can purchase these ornaments at most any craft store and they are available in different shapes/sizes too! For gifts being given to children these versatile ornaments even come in a clear plastic variety for a little holiday safety. You can add you own special twist to these plus they will have these thoughtful ornaments to enjoy and decorate their own holiday home for years to come!

BY: Bella Sweet Jewelry
The fantasy is awakened with Bella-Sweet Jewelry. Genuine gemstones & distinctive pendants unite to creative one-of-a-kind wearable works of art.

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You've spend your money on the perfect gift that you searched hours for... you wrap it up, slap a stick-on bow and scrap of paper as the name tag?? NO WAY! Make the outside as perfect as the inside. A pretty hand-tied bow adds so much. As for the name tag, this year I have taken small clear glass ornaments and popped the top off. I wrote the recipient's name on a small piece of paper and carefully slipped it inside the ornament with a small piece of pine. Put the topper back on and attach it to the package with a piece of ribbon right by that pretty hand-tied bow! It it so pretty and really appreciated, that little extra touch.

Mini Chip Snowball Cookies

truli@yourstruli.com (YoursTruli) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 10:58:00 +0000

Remember when your mom was baking up a holiday storm and the whole house smelled heavenly with the scent of homemade cookies? Nothing says the holidays are here better then batches of wonderful homemade cookies to share with your family and friends! While we might not have the time to do a ton of holiday baking like mom used to do this is a great easy to make recipe that will add a new cookie delight to your holidays everyone will love including you! These might just become a favorite family holiday tradition at your home!

BY: Katy of Jewel Fire Designs
A studio filled with jewelry designs from Elegant to Bold and everything in between.
I have been making jewelry and lampwork beads for 20 years and just love bling. Helping women feel good about themselves and giving them something to treasure is my goal.

"I always make a ton of these over the holidays as they go fast!"

Mini Chip Snowball Cookies

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Ingredients:
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1 1/2 cups (3 sticks) butter or margarine, softened

3/4 cup powdered sugar

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon salt

3 cups all-purpose flour

2 cups (12-oz. pkg.) Mini Chocolate Chips

1/2 cup finely chopped nuts

Powdered sugar

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Cooking Directions:
~~~~*~~~~

PREHEAT oven to 375° F.

BEAT butter, sugar, vanilla extract and salt in large mixer bowl until creamy. Gradually beat in flour; stir in morsels and nuts. Shape level tablespoons of dough into 1 1/4-inch balls. Place on ungreased baking sheets.

BAKE for 10 to 12 minutes or until cookies are set and lightly browned. Remove from oven. Sift powdered sugar over hot cookies on baking sheets. Cool on baking sheets for 10 minutes; remove to wire racks to cool completely. Sprinkle with additional powdered sugar, if desired.
Store in airtight containers.

Turkey Craft with the Kids!

truli@yourstruli.com (YoursTruli) — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 11:40:00 +0000

Looking for a cute craft idea that you can do with the kids and will be a wonderful centerpiece on your Thanksgiving day table too? Well this great turkey is a little holiday fun for everyone! A wonderful and unique handmade holiday decoration that will give you and your children a lot of joy to create together and your kids will feel so proud to have their handiwork displayed for all your holiday guest to enjoy!

BY: Natasha of Capricious Adornments
Unique Gifts & Capricious Adornments
Gemstone, Bead, Enamel and Chain Jewelry
I try to reflect a fun, whimsical and unpredictably spirited theme in my designs! I appreciate the many roles and hats that we, as women, wear during our routine lives.

Turkey Centerpiece
Made from a disposable glove, popcorn, feathers, some googly eyes and a large apple - this turkey centerpiece will get chuckles from your Thanksgiving guests.

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You need
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* Disposable Glove
* Glue
* Scissors
* Yellow / Orange / Red Tissue Paper
* Large Apple or Small Pumpkin (as a base)
* Rubber Band
* Wooden Skewer Stick
* Red felt or construction paper for waddle (the red thing on the neck)
* Black construction paper for a hat
* Brown Construction paper for a beak

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Instructions
~~~~*~~~~

Stuff a disposable glove with popcorn, you can pop your own or buy it ready made. Can't tell you how much because it's always eaten during the crafting process :)

Use a rubber band to tightly close up the bottom.

Poke a hole in the glove and push the skewer into the hole.

Rip up pieces of tissue paper and glue feather like strips or balls onto all sides of the fingers and palm of the stuffed glove.

Glue on some googly eyes, which you can find in any craft store. Cut out and glue on a waddle, hat and beak.

You have a gorgeous Turkey Centerpiece!

Happy Crafting!

Easy Make Ahead Cranberry Sauce

truli@yourstruli.com (YoursTruli) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 12:20:00 +0000

I know making cranberry sauce from scratch can sound a bit intimidating (especially when you could just open a can like I used to lol!) but here is a great little recipe that is very easy to make, using just a few key ingredients, and it is also a real Thanksgiving day dinner time saver too! It only takes minutes to create this fabulous fall holiday dish and it tastes best after sitting in the refrigerator for a day or two allowing the flavors to develop and meld so you can make it well ahead of time saving you precious Thanksgiving day cooking and preparation time. Plus this is seriously delicious!

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Ingredients:
~~~~*~~~~

2 cups orange juice

2 - 12 oz bags fresh cranberries

1/2 tsp. ground ginger

2 cups granulated sugar

Zest of 2 oranges

1 cup chopped walnuts

~*~
You can also jazz this up a bit if you like and add your own favorites
in addition to the ingredients listed here. I also like to add chopped pears and currants to mine too.

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Cooking Directions:
~~~~*~~~~

Make sure to wash your cranberries well in a colander or strainer
removing any stems or bad berries and allow them to dry.

Add the orange juice, cranberries and ginger to a nice sized pot. Bring mixture to a slow rolling simmer stirring often just until cranberries pop and become tender ~ about 10 minutes.

Turn off heat.

Add sugar, orange zest, walnuts (and your own favorites) stirring mixture to combine and keep stirring until sugar is completely dissolved. Tip: Adding the sugar after the cranberries have already popped keeps the cranberry skins from getting tough! Once all of your ingredients are thoroughly combined allow the (now scrumptious) cranberry sauce to cool completely in the pan and pour into your casserole/serving dish.

Refrigerate for a day or two and enjoy!

Setting A Formal Thanksgiving Table

truli@yourstruli.com (YoursTruli) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 13:40:00 +0000

Sometimes it is so nice to have a formal setting when it comes to Thanksgiving entertaining, it makes the holiday meal even more special and the food presented will look fantastic. I thought I would share a few tips for setting a formal table ~ it's not as difficult as it looks!

Centerpiece
The first thing you should think about is your centerpiece, it can often set the mood so choose carefully! Keep the centerpiece natural and uncomplicated, avoid too many tall elements that could block sight lines across the table. Centerpieces can be anything from floral arrangements to a beautiful bowl filled with fruits and vegetables of the season.

Tablecloth or Placemats
If you have a beautiful table, consider using placemats instead of a tablecloth. Mats can be plain or patterned to suit your decor as long as they are not to busy and they are heatproof. If your table surface needs to be protected or is already damaged, use a tablecloth. A light color, white, tablecloth is traditionally more formal, make sure it is ironed and add a darker color runner. Nothing brings subtle sophistication to your table like a beautiful runner. The cloth should be big enough to drape at least 6 inches over each side of the table and the runner should be the same length or shorter than the tablecloth.

Place Settings
Dinner plates to the center and if you are having a soup course, place the soup dish on top of the dinner plate, side plate goes to the left of the place setting.

The general rule for silverware is you put the ones you will use first on the outside of each setting, and you work your way in.

To the right of each plate, first place the dinner knife with the blade facing the plate. On its right, place the teaspoon, and further to the right place the soup spoon. Optionally a dessert spoon may be placed horizontally above the plate, pointing to the left.

On the left, place the dessert fork nearest the plate (if there is to be one), then the dinner fork and finally, the salad fork to the left of that. The bottoms of each piece of silverware should line up with the bottom of the dinner plate.

* If your table is small, or you have a lot of guest, to keep the table from becoming too crowded you can bring out specialty utensils, like shellfish forks, with the course. The same with forks or spoons for dessert.

The bread and butter plate is placed directly above the forks, with a butter spreader placed horizontally across the top of the plate, with the tip pointing to the left.

Above the plate and slightly to the right you place the water glass, with a red wine glass to the right of that and a white wine glass to the right of all.

The Napkins
Napkins traditionally are folded and placed to the left of the forks. If you are using a fancy fold or napkin rings, place the napkin on top of the dinner plate (or on the soup bowl if one is seated on the dinner plate).

Place Cards
Using place cards avoids awkward moments when guests seat themselves and wards off potential problems. The place card is placed directly above the dinner plate AND to help you get started on your fabulous handmade thanksgiving meal I have made up two place cards, one for men one for women, that you can use! Save them to your computer, print out on heaver type paper or card stock and add the names!

Once you have added the names to your cards fold them in half so they stand up nicely for your guest to see!

One last thing... The kids table.
Setting up a separate table for the kids is a tradition worth upholding and you can make it a fun table for them. Get your own children involved with decorating the kids table, they will love helping and being an active part of all of the holiday excitement. It will be a fun project for them picking out a fun tablecloth, bright plastic plates and cups, placemats they can color on or some coloring books and crayons and if they are old enough setting it all up for you too!

No Bake Guiltless Chocolate Haystack Delights

truli@yourstruli.com (YoursTruli) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 11:39:00 +0000

What better way to kick off the holiday season then with a quick and simple mouth watering recipe that anyone can whip up in a matter of minutes. Time is something we never have enough of over the holidays and you want to make something delicious ~ well this fun treat will have them all thinking you slaved over a hot stove for hours! A great last minute dessert for all ages, sure to be a big hit at your all of your parties and family gatherings!

BY: Button of Buttonwilloe Babies & Baubles & Blessings
Collectible Miniatures and Keepsakes, Little Babies, Angels, Cupcake Toppers, Figurines, Whimsical Ornaments, Animals & Jewelry created to bless your heart & make you smile.

I have a yummy recipe to share. Super easy and delicious. Low calorie, too!

No Bake Guiltless Chocolate Haystack Delights

Ingredients:
6 oz semi sweet chocolate chips
1 teaspoon real peanut butter
1 bag Fiber One cereal (box has 2 bags inside)
Optional candy sprinkles

Melt Chocolate chips and 1 tsp. peanut butter in large bowl in microwave oven for 5 minutes on 40% power or until chocolate melts. Be careful...too much time will ruin the chocolate. Add cereal and mix well to coat in chocolate. Place wax paper on cookie sheet Use two spoons (makes it much easier) and make little mounds on cookie sheet Top with sprinkles if desired (looks more festive) Refrigerate or place in freezer for 5-10 minutes to set chocolate They are delicious and loaded with fiber! Yay!

Handmade Holidays

truli@yourstruli.com (YoursTruli) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 12:42:00 +0000

With Thanksgiving just around the corner we all know Christmas can not be far behind! What I love most about the holidays is the way it brings people together and the wonderful feeling you get when you make something yourself you know everyone will enjoy. There is nothing like that personal touch, that bit of DIY, when it comes to celebrating the season and making the holidays extra special and I thought it would be nice to help you have the best Handmade Holidays ever! For the months of November and December I will be bringing you fun crafts to do, cute ways to decorate your home, yummy recipes and great gift ideas you may have never thought of otherwise to make this year one your friends and family will always remember.

AND You can be a part of fun too! Everyone is welcome and encouraged to send in and share with the rest of us your decorating tips, crafty tutorials, favorite recipes or anything that makes the holidays special for you! Video turtorials are also welcome and be sure to include your first name, business name and website with all of your submissions. Lets make this the best Handmade Holiday ever!

*Click on the pics to visit the studios of these wonderful artisans!

To be included in the Handmade Holiday Gift Guide (featured below) submit the url to a 140x140 preview pic (or as close to it as you can get) and include your category, business name and studio link ~ along with your ideas that you would like to share for a great Handmade Holiday!

Handmade Pick Of The Day

truli@yourstruli.com (YoursTruli) — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 11:08:00 +0000

Artisan

Doll Threads and Clay
South Jordan, Utah

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Folk Art Halloween Candy Corn
Pumpkin Witch Doll Decoration
US $39.00

Pumpkin Witch has been sculpted with clay and stands on wood base. Hand painted with acrylics and heavily antiqued for a vintage look. New but made to look old.. Fun addition to your Whimsical Halloween Collection. Little pumpkin jol filled with candy corn. Also, holding a string of candy corns. The size of this darling Pumpkin Witch is; 15 inches tall by 8 inches wide.

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Happy Halloween!
Have A Spooky Good Time!

Handmade Pick Of The Day

truli@yourstruli.com (YoursTruli) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 12:03:00 +0000

Artisan

OC Styles Creations
Orange, CA

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Full Apron Autumn Leaves
Reversible-Adjustable Neckline Ties
US $21.99

Full Apron Autumn Leaves Print. This gorgeous apron can be worn throughout the Fall holidays or any time of the year.
FEATURES:
-It features a cotton, varying earth tones & Autumn Leaves print. There is one (1) pocket on the front. The back side of the apron is lined in a burnt orange & white dots cotton.
**EASY Care--machine wash cold & hang to dry.
**One size fits most adults.
**Measurements:
-From top of bib to hem measures 28
-Bib is 9.5 across
-Bottom of apron wraps around hips & measures 31 across
-Ties are generous & measure 35 long on the neckline & 41 (each) around the waistline.
--Neckline is adjustable--D Rings allow you to make the neckline ties to your desired length.

--A GREAT GIFT for any Hostess.

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Cook that holiday turkey in great autumn style! I can remember growing up my mom always wore an apron in the kitchen and had a drawer full of cute ones and I really like wearing one myself but you can never find one now a days that is visually appealing to wear or will fit you nicely, especially if you are on the short side. Well this fantastic apron offers you the best of both with an adjustable neckline, longer waist ties and it's really cute to boot! PLUS this is a full apron so it will keep your clothes nice and splatter free while cooking up a storm!

Handmade Pick Of The Day

truli@yourstruli.com (YoursTruli) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 11:40:00 +0000

Artisan

Bag-It Designs
Handcrafted Bags
Purses and Accessories
Northern California

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Autumn Elegance
Motherload Bag
Large Reversible Tote
US $55.00

This listing features a beautiful autumn print of fall leaves against a black background. Side 2 is a beautiful Celtic knots in golden tones, highlighted with metallic gold accents. The bag is accented with black grosgrain ribbing and poly webbing.
This bag is the MOTHER of all tote bags. It's BIG and BEAUTIFUL and REVERSIBLE. The Mother Load Bag is an easy access, easy pack option for the times when you need to carry a lot of stuff.
Each bag is a unique creation, but some things are standard: all Mother Load Bags are a BIG - 18 1/2 x 15 1/2 x 5 inches; are reversible with lots of pockets using cute coordinating fabrics; have matching grosgrain ribbon binding and poly web shoulder straps; have heavy interfacing and poly fleece interlining. This is a quality, well made bag.

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Finally a tote bag big enough to carry everything you will need for all of your fun autumn outings with fabulous fall styling ~ what more could you ask for?! What? You want a versatile bag with two totally different but equally great looks to match your mood? Well this wonderful fully reversible bag has that too...wow! This is the perfect tote to see you through apple picking, hayrides, corn mazes, the pumpkin patch, that great halloween party and trick or treat night out with the kids too!

Handmade Pick Of The Day

truli@yourstruli.com (YoursTruli) — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 13:25:00 +0000

Artisan

Fine Art Photography
By Sherri Conley
Richmond / Chesterfield VA

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She Remembers a Time
12x12 Fine Art Photograph
US $50.00

Title: She Remembers a Time
Size: 12x12 inches
This photograph is signed and is printed on premium archival matte paper with archival inks to ensure longevity. Shipped in a protective clear sleeve with sturdy backing.
Also available as an 8x8 in my shop.

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When I see breath taking photography like this I think to myself ~ This is the day that the Lord hath made. There is a wealth of fine art photography just waiting for your discovery. Today would be a perfect day to kick back, relax, take some nice down time for yourself and fully enjoy all of the beauty this studio has to offer.
Have a glorious Sunday!

Handmade Pick Of The Day

truli@yourstruli.com (YoursTruli) — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 09:51:00 +0000

Artisan

Painted Kreations
Magalia, California

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Fall Painted Ginger Pumpkin
Jar Candle with GingerBread
US $14.00

This is a candle that smells absolutely delicious!!! It is a 12 oz jar candle scented in Ginger Pumpkin. I have painted one of my original ginger girls standing with a pumpkin (what else???) and a black cat, with a pumpkin and crow painted on either side of her on the candle. The jar itself is a matte burnt orange color. I added "fall blessins" and a leaf to the lid, and tied a multi-colored ribbon around the neck of it.
It measures 5" tall x 4" square around. I would recommend using a candle warmer as opposed to actually burning the candle, but either way is fine. The design is sealed with several coats of matte sealer to preserve the frosted look of the jar.

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What a fun way to decorate for the season and make your whole house smell delicious at the same time! The hand painting on this jar candle is absolutely adorable and even after the yummy ginger pumpkin scented candle is long gone I really like that you can reuse and enjoy this special fall themed container to decorate your home for years to come!

Handmade Pick Of The Day

truli@yourstruli.com (YoursTruli) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 09:47:00 +0000

Artisan

My Magic Me
Hyde, Cheshire

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Autumn Queen
Personalized Portrait Picture
US $10.00

The Autumn Queen, she's beautiful! I'll turn any photo into this! You will be thrilled to have yourself or a loved one displayed in a room after I'm done with it. Check out my feedback.

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It's good to be the Queen! What a delightfully unique way to celebrate the autumn season and have a wonderful keepsake too! Autumn Queen not for you?! Well this fabulous digital artist has an absolutely fantastic variety of different morphs that you can become and this would make for a very special present for that special someone ~ one that they will never forget! When you visit this studio you might just find her working on her latest portrait via livestream broadcast, be sure to say hello while you watch the amazing transformations!

Handmade Pick Of The Day

truli@yourstruli.com (YoursTruli) — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 14:30:00 +0000

Artisan
Grandma C Creations
Phoenix, Arizona
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Ghost Boo Decoration
US $20.00

This hand painted piece has a very detailed ghost with spider webs, a full moon and a frightened looking pumpkin. Say "BOO" on it as well. Sit it on a table,a mantle or anywhere you choose. Solid wood construction.
Measures: 12" Hight X 6 1/2" Length x 3 3/4" Wide

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Add a touch of ghostly whimsy to your Halloween this year! The hand painting on this wooden Halloween decoration is so beautifully done it will be a wonderful accent anywhere you want to add a little Halloween fun to your home! It was really hard to pick just one there are so many really cute decorations to chose from so make this shop a definite stop for your Halloween shopping AND A little sneak peek at what else is waiting for you there!

Handmade Pick Of The Day

truli@yourstruli.com (YoursTruli) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 04:33:00 +0000

Artisan
From Grams House
Mogadore Ohio
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Light Up Gourd
Jack-O-Lantern
Hand Painted
US $40.00

My Light-Up Jack-O-Lantern gourd is 11" tall and 34" around. He has a Halloween house, trees, bats, a big yellow moon with a witch in the night sky. Inside painted orange.
Sealed with satin varnish, signed and dated by me.
Comes with light cord.

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I just had to include all of the pictures for this gourd jack o lantern so you could see how wonderful he really is! I am turning into quite the gourd lover and this one is just fabulous! A perfect alternative if you want to skip the mess of carving up a pumpkin and have a unique halloween decoration that will last you for years to come. The hand painted halloween art surrounds this large gourd on all sides so no matter how you look at it you will see some spooky fun and it lights up to welcome in your guest and trick or treaters too! There are other fantastic jack o lantern gourds available all decorated with wonderfully creative halloween scenes but you better hurry because they are going fast and halloween is just around the corner!

Handmade Pick Of The Day

truli@yourstruli.com (YoursTruli) — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 05:01:00 +0000

Artisan
The Art Of Emily Balivet
Pittsford, VT
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Autumn Riders
8x10 Print
US $15.00

A print of "Autumn Riders" -Original painting by Emily Balivet. Acrylic on panel. 2005.
Inspired by the magical season of autumn in Vermont, the Medieval Ladies ride their palfreys stoically through a brilliant red, green, and gold landscape as two birds in the foreground look on.
The image measures 8" x 10" and is printed on acid-free, archival quality stiff matte stock. There is a generous white border allowance for matting and framing. The print is sealed in a protective cello sleeve, signed on the back, and shipped flat.

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From Emily's Bio "Mythological Goddess Art of Emily Balivet. Inspired by nature, the Pre-Raphaelites, Mythology, especially Celtic folklore and Arthurian legend." Her magical paintings will draw you back in time from the nouveau era to the days of medieval knights in shinning armor and damsels in distress. This autumn inspired painting brings the splendor of the season to medieval life with it's three fair ladies and vivid coloring, makes me want to jump right in and enjoy the ride along with them! AND You will thoroughly enjoy visiting her virtual gallery, her incredible artwork is available for purchase in print giving mythological art lovers a wonderful opportunity to own a number of her historically reflective works.

Handmade Pick Of The Day

truli@yourstruli.com (YoursTruli) — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 04:57:00 +0000

Artisan
Mrs Gibson Atelier
Northampton,
Northamptonshire England
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Autumn Leaves Fall
Button Charm Bracelet
US $30.00

Lovely silver plated charm bracelet adorned with vintage buttons in Fall colours, autumnal browns and oranges. The bracelet is approx 7.5 inches or 20cm in length and is secured with a toggle and hoop clasp.

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It is a lovely bracelet! While you are decorating your home for the season don't forget about kicking up your fall fashions too! I really like the eclectic mix of texture, color and design that went into the making of this unique vintage button charm bracelet giving it such a fun and stylish look that will lend itself beautifully to all of your fall fashions! Put this studio on your "to see" list because there are a number of these charming button bracelets available in a variety of colors and designs!

Handmade Pick Of The Day

truli@yourstruli.com (YoursTruli) — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 08:01:00 +0000

Artisan
Quilts By Design
Brooklyn, NY
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Autumn in the City
Quilt
US $190.00

For this quilt I've grabbed for the colors of fall. You could curl up in its warm, toasty colors on a chilly Sunday afternoon. It measures 46" square and is 100% cotton top, back and batting. The tight quilting gives it a casual drape. It's also easy care it goes into the washer and dryer and comes out looking perfect.
This would work as an accent throw or wall hanging for a great punch of color (I will happily hand stitch a sleeve for you all you have to do is ask.) However you choose to use it, it will last and last.
I use Cherrywood Fabrics. They are expertly dyed and the colors stay bright and true wash after wash. I think this fabric is so beautiful I've never had the heart to cut it up into small pieces.

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You can tell the autumn has settled in and the weather is growing cooler here when I start looking for a quilt to snuggle up in and this one is absolutely striking with rich fall hues in a delightfully bold design ~ so unique! A real eye catcher that will warm up any decor and fabulous that is it easy care because this cozy quilt will be everyone's favorite. If you are looking for quilts with an exciting difference from the traditional this studio is the place and there is a beautiful array of wall hangings, pillows and place mats too!

Handmade Pick Of The Day

truli@yourstruli.com (YoursTruli) — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 11:51:00 +0000

Artisan
TzaddiShop
Denver, CO
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GeoForms SHIMMERZ
Reversible Glass Art Necklace
Autumn Glow
US $22.50

GeoForms SHIMMERZ - Reversible Prima Glass Art Necklace - AUTUMN GLOW 2" Round glass. This irridescent Autumn tree glows with hues of golds, reds and browns as the sunset of summer descends . . backed with gold foil it radiates in light.

The back side of the necklace is another portion of the abstract with a circle of leaves which mimics the cycles of nature and its ever changing foliage. With gold foil for dimensional shimmer and layered inside of the clear glaze is a subtle dusting of gold, reflecting the autumn sun.

Accompanying copper brown slinky metal mesh necklace. It is 16" and extends to 18" if you need a longer extension chain just convo me. Down the extension chain is a brass leaf. These pendants are sealed and Water resistant. GOOD NEWS! This design is also available in smaller 1.5" glass.

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I have always thought when I looked at a tree dressed in it's full autumn spender that the colors were so vibrant they positively glow and now this artisan has captured some of that fall beauty in the form of incredible wearable glass art! This striking necklace is a fabulous combination of so many elements that I have always loved with the use of gorgeous shimmery autumn colors and design, it's reversible giving you versatility with two exciting looks, the richness of glass art and it's big bold and beautiful at 2" round ... Wait ... let me get my wallet!!! You will be more then ready to get yours out too because in addition to this stunning necklace there are so many really wonderful designs in different sizes and shapes available in the studio to chose from just waiting for you to discover your favorite ~ and the fantastic prices will also have you thinking the perfect stocking stuffer to really WOW them this holiday!

Handmade Pick Of The Day

truli@yourstruli.com (YoursTruli) — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 11:42:00 +0000

Artisan
SooBoo
Erwin, North Carolina
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Classy Autumn Wreath
For Front Door
Orange, Green, Purple
US $26.00

Fall Fabric Wreath is made with deep, rich autumnal colors to decorate your front door. This wreath will be admired by everyone! Colors used are orange, greens, purple and laced with gold.
Approximate size is 16" diameter x 3" depth

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Not your typical twigs and berries this puffy fabric fall wreath is a wonderfully different way to welcome your guest in fabulous autumn style! The cleaver combination of bright autumns color in a variety of leaf themed fabrics make this wreath so warm and inviting and the raffia ties are just the perfect finishing touch! There is a beautiful assortment of these creative fabric wreaths available and at such a fantastic price you will definitely want to pick up a few different ones to decorate your door in it's seasonal best all year round!