Fireflies and Jellybeans

Smokey Rigatoni Recipe {guest post: A Lighter Journey}

2012-02-10T06:00:00.001-06:00

I am excited to introduce you to a new blog: A Lighter Journey. Jeannine and I went to College with Michelle. What I love most about A Lighter Journey, is that Michelle and Courtney show us how to reduce our busy lives to what matters, our home and family!

Michelle is here to share a SUPER yummy recipe with us!
________________________________________

Michelle here from A Lighter Journey, where my friend Courtney and I are on a quest to lighten our loads and brighten our homes! Fawnda and Jeannine are so kind to let me guest post today and share a delicious story with you. Here we go!

Once upon a time I saw a commercial where a woman dropped a block of cream cheese into a pot of spaghetti sauce. It was a moment of inspiration! With the other ingredients I had on hand, a new family favorite was born: Smokey Rigatoni!
Ingredients:

1 pkg smoked sausage sliced
1 chopped onion
5-6 fresh garlic cloves finely chopped
1 26oz can/jar of spaghetti sauce
1 pkg cream cheese
1 pkg of rigatoni (or other shaped) pasta
1 T smoked paprika*
sprinkle of mozzarella and/or parmesan cheese
Extra Virgin Olive Oil

*If you don't have smoked paprika there really is NO substitute! I strongly recommend you buy some. It is really what gives this meal the smokey flavor, and it's also great added to hamburger patties, meat rubs and marinades, as well as chilis and stews! It's one of my favorite spices!

Cook pasta according to package directions. While it is cooking drizzle olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Once oil is hot, add onions and saute for 2-3 minutes until they are translucent.

Add sausage and cook until all heated through. (We like to cook it until a nice brown crust appears on the meat!) Add garlic and cook 1 more minute (be careful not to let the garlic burn!).

Turn heat down to medium-low. Next comes the inspirational ingredient: cream cheese!

Stir continually until the cream cheese completely melts. Add the smoked paprika and stir together. (It doesn't look pretty, but it will definitely smell yummy!)

Pour in spaghetti sauce and mix together. It will look something like this:

Drain pasta and stir sauce over the rigatoni. Serve with a sprinkle of cheese on top!

"Mmmmmmm!"

And our family ate happily ever after! But that's not the end of the story, because you can put your own twist to this yummy tale!
Here's a couple of variations:
Bake the smokey rigatoni (covered with cheese and pan wrapped in tin foil) in a 9x13 pan at 350 for 10-15min until hot and bubbly!
For a lighter version used turkey smoked sausage and half the amount of cream cheese (or reduced fat cream cheese). It will still be creamy and delicious!
For a meat-less version leave the sausage out all together! The smoked paprika will give it that yummy smokey flavor and you won't miss the meat.
Enjoy!

Show Off Your Stuff Party #113

2012-02-08T21:56:00.000-06:00

Welcome to our Show Off Your Stuff Party #113!

This week I am showing off:

Jeannine's I love you Photo Craft:

Don't forget to link up your map/compass themed projects for a chance to win $50 gift card to Target. Link up HERE!

Source

Is 2012 the year you want make some money blogging?

One site that I have found helpful in finding sponsors is Social Spark

They match bloggers with advertisers. You get to choose who you promote and how you promote it! It really is a win-win!

Here is the run down:

1. Pay attention! There are 3 categories to link up:

Crafts and Sewing

DIY and Home Decor

Recipes

pick one and go with it!

{If you pick the wrong one... you can delete your own and add it to the right one! :) }

2. Add a link to your specific post, not the main page of your blog.

3. Please do not link up to something that you are just trying to sell.

4. Link to this party from your post so everyone can get in on the fun. You can just grab my button!

I Love you Photo Valentine gift {tutorial!!}

2012-02-07T06:00:00.002-06:00

***This is a repost from last year of a SUPER easy and cute valentines gift! Less then a week until Valentines day!!!***

Hey everybody, it's me, Jeannine, making my once-every-few-months appearance. I have 5 kids, two of whom are very busy toddlers, so every now and then I have a spare 5 minutes in which to throw a craft together. In fact, this particular craft probably takes more like an hour, because of the photo editing. But this is a fun one to get your kids involved with. Ok, here goes:

Directions:
1. If you are not fluent in American Sign Language, you may have to do some research on how to make the letter signs. Here is the website I used. I just did a Google search for "ASL letters." If you know the letters, then skip this step. Or you can copy mine!

2. Hang a piece of black poster board on the wall. Make sure there is room for your child to stand in front of it, and for you to get a good picture.

3. Have your child sign the letters I, L, Y (for I Love You); or if you want to do "I {heart} U", then have your child sign the letters I and U, and then make a heart shape with both hands. (See my example below. Also, it's a bit easier to take a picture of the heart if they can lay their hands on a table instead of against the wall). I also went ahead and did all the letters in the words "I Love You" and made a poster of the entire sentence.

4. Load the pictures onto the computer, crop so they're the same size (4x6 or 5x7 or however you plan to display them). Make them black and white, and add a soft focus to soften the edges a bit.

5. Then either print the photos at home on your printer, or if you want fancy professional printing, you can order them from whatever photo processor you normally use.

6. Put pics in frame, and display for all to see!

I Love Avocados!!

2012-02-05T21:07:00.000-06:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Avocados from Mexico for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

I love Avocados from Mexico! It's true, my family LOVES them... like big puffy heart loves them! They are such a yummy treat that is also healthy. My daughter will eat up avocados like they are candy.

Did you know that Avocados are a fruit? Yep - they totally are! Did you also know that avocados have the vitamins and nutrients essential for child development and growth? Yep- Just 3 slices of this creamy green fruit packs potassium, fiber, folate, vitamin C, E and those B-complex vitamins that support memory and brain function! I knew I liked avocados for a reason!

Some of my favorite avocados recipes are:

my Easy Guac:

my Bacon-Avocado-Tomato salad!

I am making my guac of our Super Bowl party!

I love avocados on Facebook! And I shared my love with my friend my sending a virtual gift of Authentic Guacamole! :) They also have some fun screen savers and wallpapers too!

Be sure that you spread the love too on Facebook or on Twitter @guacgrl.

Avocados are such an easy way to add flavor and nutrients to a meal!

I would love to see if you have any yummy Avocado recipes to share!

Link up your favorite avocado recipe below!

Thinking of Spring with DigDropDone.com

2012-02-05T01:01:00.001-06:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Bulbs. Dig, Drop, Done. for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

It is February... not quite spring time yet, but with our unusual warm weather here in the Midwest, I can't help but thing of spring and HOPE that it comes early this year! I love spring. It is a time where things grow up new and beautiful! But when it comes to gardening, I am a BLACK thumb. That is where DigDropDone.com comes in! Be sure to visit www.digdropdone.com to learn more to learn all about easy to plant bulbs to make your garden and yard look wonderful!

Dig.Drop.Done also gives back to the community: For every share on Twitter, "Bulbs. Dig, Drop, Done." will donate $1.00 to Rebuilding Together - the nation’s leading nonprofit, working to preserve affordable homeownership and revitalize communities

Meet the Ladies: The Voices of Dig.Drop.Done™:

Evelyn, the empty nester

Juliana, the fashionista

Marcy, the super mom

Each lady share tips and trick on how to plant bulbs for their life situation!

I relate to Marcy the most since she is a busy mom! Her tip is to plant the bulbs with your kids, because the kids love to dig in the dirt and why not have a little fun with gardening too!

Dip.Drop.Done. has created a site called Curbside Chaos to give all sorts of inspiration for your yard!

They also have a garden guru to help you find the best time to plant and the best bulbs to plant where you live!

It is so easy to use!

Step 1: Choice your location {I picked Minnesota}

Step 2: Pick when you want to plant your bulbs.

Step 3: Choose your bulbs

Out comes full directions of what to do! Simple steps to make sure that your bulbs grow!

Curbside Chaos is hosting a contest to help your spruce up your yard!

The lucky winner will not only receive a $5,000 yard makeover, but they will also receive a visit from Taniya Nayak (@TaniyaNayak on Twitter) – Taniya will go through and give you tips on the best way to update your yard! She will give you creative ideas for incorporating flower bulbs into your landscape. All you have to do is submit a picture of your curbside chaos!

Are you thinking spring yet?

Map/Compass Link-up contest sponsored by MyDealCompass {win a $50 Target Card!}

2012-02-03T06:00:00.005-06:00

We have a super fun contest today! myDealCompass is sponsoring a Map/compass project link-up!

Link up your favorite projects that have anything to with the theme Map or Compass. myDealCompass will pick their top five projects and then we will all vote on the winner... the winner will get $50 gift card to target! Totally worth playing for!!

Source

Here is a little bit about myDealCompass:
myDealCompass is location based service for businesses to engage potential customers around the premise of getting good deals. We provide merchants with all the tools they need to manage their own digital coupons and daily deals without taking half their money in return. Consumers can use the website or mobile app to always find the best deals all around them. Before you go out for lunch or decide where to get an oil change, check myDealCompass!

Source

Now link up your Map/Compass themed Projects! I cannot wait to see them!

The Linky will be open until Thursday Feb 9th and we will announce the top 5 On Monday Feb 13th to vote on.

This post sponsored by :

myDealCompass. No Frills Just Deals!

Show Off Your Stuff Party # 112

2012-02-01T21:22:00.001-06:00

Hello and welcome to the Show Off Your Stuff party # 112!

This week I am showing off:

My Felt flowers and Pinwheel Straws:

Be sure to check out your chance to win FREE products from Charlies Soap!

Is 2012 the year you want make some money blogging?

One site that I have found helpful in finding sponsors is Social Spark

They match bloggers with advertisers. You get to choose who you promote and how you promote it! It really is a win-win!

Here is the run down:

1. Pay attention! There are 3 categories to link up:

Crafts and Sewing

DIY and Home Decor

Recipes

pick one and go with it!

{If you pick the wrong one... you can delete your own and add it to the right one! :) }

2. Add a link to your specific post, not the main page of your blog.

3. Please do not link up to something that you are just trying to sell.

4. Link to this party from your post so everyone can get in on the fun. You can just grab my button!

This post sponsored by :

myDealCompass. No Frills Just Deals!

Come back on Friday for an AWESOME map/compass project contest hosted by myDealCompass!

Charlie's Soap Review and Giveaway!

2012-01-31T15:58:00.002-06:00

These days most of us would probably say that we would prefer to use cleaning products that are non-toxic and environmentally friendly. But let's face it, most of that stuff is quite expensive, and during this tough recession, we've all had to make budget cuts.

That's why I was so excited to have the opportunity to try and review Charlie's Soap. I have been making my own laundry detergent for several years because of the high cost of natural cleaning products. But not only is Charlie's Soap environmentally friendly, but the laundry detergent is actually cheaper per load than the stuff I make (as little as $0.13 per load for the 1000 load bucket)! I did the math over and over again just to make sure. And there's no need for softeners, which means even more savings! Besides the amazing price, my favorite thing about CS laundry detergent is the smell of my clean clothes. They call it unscented, but I call it "a hint of fresh." I don't like strong scents (another reason I prefer to make my own detergent), but I am in LOVE with how my clothes smell after being washed in Charlie's Soap. Also, it's excellent for cloth diapers. I am potty training 2 toddlers, and after a couple washes all the pee-smell was gone from my boys' pants and underwear. Not only did it get my clothes clean and fresh, but the inside of my washing machine was also cleaner. I was bummed when I ran out, I had to go buy more right away. And as a bonus, Charlie's Soap laundry detergent can also be used in the dishwasher! How cool is that? (For best results, Charlie's Soap recommends using their Laundry Booster & Hard Water Treatment if you have hard water).

In addition to the laundry detergent, I also tried Charlie's Soap Kitchen and Bath cleaner. Let me just say: AMAZING. This stuff works so well at cleaning up messes and grime. I have been using it on my counter tops and appliances, and everything is sparkling clean. I also cleaned the bathroom with it, and it works great there too. As with everything they make, the Kitchen/Bath cleaner is environmentally safe, which I love. It is not only for kitchens and bathrooms though. It can be used on virtually anything. I have sprayed it on pans that have crusted-on food, and within 5 minutes the food wipes out as easily as if it had been soaking for hours. It also cleans walls, floors, hands, machine parts (yep!), and much more. When I cleaned my kitchen floor with CS, my rinse bucket was dirtier than it's ever been, which is a good thing because it means Charlie's does a BETTER job of cleaning than what I was previously using. I am one of Charlie's Soap's newest customer's. I love it.

To enter to win FREE samples of Charlies Soap visit Charlie's Soap's website and come back to tell us your favorite product.

Want another entry? Like them on their Facebook page and come back to tell us!

***Giveaway ends on Sunday Feb 5th at Midnight. Winner will be notified by email***
US RESIDENTS ONLY

This post sponsored by :

myDealCompass. No Frills Just Deals!

Come back on Friday for an AWESOME map/compass project contest hosted by myDealCompass!

Felt Flowers and Pinwheel Straws {tutorials!}

2012-01-30T06:00:00.005-06:00

Lifestyle Crafts have some fun new dies to show off at CHA this week!

Check out the fun projects I made with them!
(Be sure to check out the discount code at the bottom of the post too!)

I got the Nesting Clovers and the Pinwheel dies.

Here is what you will need:

Nesting Clovers Dies from Lifestyle Crafts

Die Cutter {not pictured}

Felt

Glue Gun

For this project I used the 3 smaller clovers from the nesting clovers (lets say the smallest clover is size 1, and the largest is size 4... I used sizes 1,2 and 3) I cut out one black size 3 and one black size 1, and three white size 2.

Yes the dies will cut through felt. I use my Epic 6 Die cutter. But, these dies work in most die cutting machines. If you are having trouble getting it to cut all the way through... try shimming it with a piece of card stock under the die. My felt cut most of the way and I had to use a scissors to cut some stings off.

Put a dot of hot glue in the middle of the inside of the size 2 clover and fold in half. Then, put a dot of glue on the outside in the middle of the top 2 petals. and fold over the glue. This will create the 3-D petals. Repeat on all 3 of the size 2 clovers.

Glue the three 3-D petals in a circle on your size 3 clover.

Glue the size 1 clover over the top of the corners of the 3-D petals, and you are done!

Use this flower to embellish a bag, or a headband, a t-shirt, etc...

Here is what you will need:

Pinwheel Die cuts from Lifestyle Crafts

Die Cutting machine {not pictured}

Felt

Straw

Brads {not pictured}

Hot glue gun {not pictured}

1. Use your die cutter to cut out your pinwheel. Use a Brad to push through all the holes on the petals and then through the center of the pinwheel. Secure the brad on the back.

You could make on big pinwheel by putting these together, but I liked the little less full ones for this project.

Use hot glue to glue the straw onto the back of the pinwheel. Then use a scrap of felt to cover over the straw for a nice finish.

Enjoy!

I think these would be ADORABLE at a baby shower or a spring/summer party!

Get 20% off your order at Lifestyle Crafts

with code: FIREFLIES

This post sponsored by :

myDealCompass. No Frills Just Deals!

Come back on Friday for an AWESOME map/compass project contest hosted by myDealCompass!

Show Off Your Stuff Party #111

2012-01-25T17:35:00.000-06:00

Hello and Welcome to our Show Off Your Stuff Party!

This week I am showing off:

My Tie Belt

My new pattern for sale in my shop:

Double Wine Tote

Use the Code: FIREFLIES to get 20% off!

Is 2012 the year you want make some money blogging?

One site that I have found helpful in finding sponsors is Social Spark

They match bloggers with advertisers. You get to choose who you promote and how you promote it! It really is a win-win!

Here is the run down:

1. Pay attention! There are 3 categories to link up:

Crafts and Sewing

DIY and Home Decor

Recipes

pick one and go with it!

{If you pick the wrong one... you can delete your own and add it to the right one! :) }

2. Add a link to your specific post, not the main page of your blog.

3. Please do not link up to something that you are just trying to sell.

4. Link to this party from your post so everyone can get in on the fun. You can just grab my button!

Double Wine Tote Pattern Release!

2012-01-25T06:00:00.003-06:00

I am so excited to release my next Pattern into my shop: Funky Joy.

The double wine tote is the perfect way to carry your wine safely anywhere you want to go. Whether you are going to a party or an evening with close friends and family, you are sure to look stylish with this chic wine tote!

It would make a great hostess gift or wedding present!

**This pattern also comes with a license to sell what you make!**

It has been tested by several sewing bloggers, and I got some great feed back!

1. Greta (personal blog)
2. Tanya at Sew Many Dreams
3. Caroline at Artfully Caroline
4. Terri at A Creative Princess
5. Susan at Fruitful Words
6. Jenn at A Jennuine Life

Here is what they have to say about it:

I made the wine tote and love it! The directions were awesome and easy to follow. (Terri)

I have never sewed with felt before and I was surprised at how easy it was to use and how smart the final product looks. As far as the pattern goes, I was thrilled with all the photos. They added clarity to the written directions which is something needed for us visual learners. (Susan)

The pattern instructions were clear and simple. I don't drink wine, so that's balsamic vinegar and rice wine vinegar on board! For other non-drinkers, you could also market this as for balsamic-and-olive-oil hostess gifts, etc. (Tanya)

To celebrate I am giving away 1 pattern to a lucky F&J follower! Just leave a comment on this post and you are entered!

**Giveaway ends at midnight tonight and I will email the winner. **

Be sure to check out the Double Wine Tote Pattern in my shop: Funky Joy!

Use the Code: FIREFLIES at checkout and get 20% off !

Tie Belt Tutorial

2012-01-23T08:25:00.003-06:00

Today I have a SUPER easy project... It will take less then 15 minutes to make! A cute tie belt.

Here is what you need:

A tie {I grabbed mine from my hubby... yes, I asked first!}

A set of D Rings {found at the fabric store in the notions section}

Sewing machine with tread, scissors, etc...

I measured around my waist and decided to cut a couple inches of the SMALL side of the tie. I didn't want it to hang down to far. This is totally optional.

Fold over the end of the tie 2 times so that you have a finish edge and make a loop for your set of D rings (you should have two of them.)and sew as close to the rings as possible. I sewed a couple of times just to reinforce the seam. {Might i suggest using a coordinating color Thead too! White was already loaded in my machine so that is what I went with!}

DONE!

It is such a fun accessory!

Linking to:

Walgreens Prescription Savings Club

2012-01-20T17:00:00.001-06:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Walgreens for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

We get all of our prescriptions from Walgreens. My family has quite a few prescriptions each month since my hubby is Type 1 Diabetic. We choose Walgreens because all of their stores are in the same network. If we are in one Walgreens prescriptions database... we are in all of them. It has come in handy on a couple of times when the one of the pharmacies ran out of a drug that was needed but, they called the next nearest Walgreens and filled our prescription there NO PROBLEM! You cannot do that at other pharmacies!

I also LOVE the drive thru. When I have 2 kids in my car, the last thing I want to do is get them out and bring them into a store to pick up a prescription. But my Walgreens has a drive thru window for prescriptions, so no getting out of my car! My son always asks if we can get a small fry when we are at the Walgreens window... sorry buddy, different drive thru!

All this is to say: I am a Walgreens Customer, and that is not going to change anytime soon. Plus there is a Redbox right outside my Walgreens... I can pick up my {prescription} drugs, candy and a movie all at the same place! : )

There is a special discount on annual membership for its Prescription Savings Club at Walgreens! For $10 a year, a family membership covers everyone in your immediate family, including a spouse, dependents 22 and younger and pets. Individuals may join for $5. Join and receive discount prices on your prescriptions.

Other benefits include:
-Savings on more than 8,000 brand-name and all generic medications
-Discounts on flu shots, pet prescriptions, nebulizers and diabetic supplies
-Bonuses when you purchase Walgreens brand products and photofinishing services

You can also follow Walgreens on Facebook and Walgreens on Twitter

Show Off Your Stuff Party # 110

2012-01-18T17:30:00.000-06:00

Hello and welcome to the Show Off Your Stuff party!

This week I am showing off:

My Doodle Chalkboard Mugs

Some fun hairdos to get you out of your mom-ponytail rut!

Is 2012 the year you want make some money blogging?

One site that I have found helpful in finding sponsors is Social Spark

They match bloggers with advertisers. You get to choose who you promote and how you promote it! It really is a win-win!

Here is the run down:

1. Pay attention! There are 3 categories to link up:

Crafts and Sewing

DIY and Home Decor

Recipes

pick one and go with it!

{If you pick the wrong one... you can delete your own and add it to the right one! :) }

2. Add a link to your specific post, not the main page of your blog.

3. Please do not link up to something that you are just trying to sell.

4. Link to this party from your post so everyone can get in on the fun. You can just grab my button!

Doodle Chalkboard Mugs

2012-01-17T06:00:00.000-06:00

I love a cup of hot cocoa on a cold day! Here is a fun way to spruce up your plain mug! A Chalkboard Doodle mug... It is a really easy way to personalize a mug for a friend, family member, or yourself!

Supplies:MugShelf paperDecoArt's Chalkboard PaintDecoArt's Glass Paint MarkersFoam Brush

1.Cut out a frame out of the shelf paper. I get my shelf paper from the Dollar Tree. I used my Silhouette to cut out the frame shape but you could use and X-acto knife or scissors too. Place the frame on the mug.

2. Paint on the Chalkboard Paint. You don't need primer but you can lightly sand the area if you want to. I did 3 coats of chalkboard paint. Once the paint has dried you can take off the shelf paper.

3. Use the Glass Paint Markers to doodle on your design around the out side of the mug. I made 3 different mugs with 3 different designs. You can google "doodles" for inspiration.

Add some yummy Hot Chocolate and you are set! {These mugs are hand-wash only... if you put them in the dishwasher the chalkboard paint will come off}

Beauty Resolutions: No more Pony-Tail! Easy fun Hairdos! {#CleverBeauty, #spon}

2012-01-16T06:00:00.002-06:00

Thanks to Walgreens for underwriting this post. I was paid as a member of the Clever Girls Collective, but the content is all mine. Visit http://www.discoverbeautywithin.com/.

This year I am going to get out of my mom-ponytail rut I am in and start doing so fun hair-dos! My beauty resolution is to pay more attention to my hair! This is going to mean a little more effort on my part, but I figured if I had a couple go-to hairdos it would be easier.

Of course I went to the web for inspiration and here are 3 easy hairdo that look great! All three hairdos use products that you may already have or could get at a drug store like Walgreens! They are also great hair dos for the day after you wash your hair!

I wanted a verity of hairdos... some up and some down. I picked tutorials that are easy to follow and work on several different hair types.

The first one is the Elegant Half up. This one just uses bobby pins.

Here is my version! It still looks great with longer and wavy hair!

The second one is the One Sided Braid. All you need is an elastic band. I love braids right now!

Here is my version:

I like that it is simple, but yet the braid add a little bit of interest.

The third one is for Classy Pigtails. All you need are elastic bands and boobypins. Oh, how I love the pigtail trend!

Here is my version.

I used a headband and I braided my hair instead of leaving it as pigtails... see above! :)

I have more fun hairdos on my Pinterest fashion board, feel free to check out (and follow me too if you want!).

So, do you have an BEAUTY resolutions this year? Do you have any favorite Hairdos that you want to share? I love to hear your comments! Talk to me!

Guest Post: Lisa's Craft Blog {Cell Phone Pocket Tutorial}

2012-01-14T06:00:00.001-06:00

Today we are welcoming Lisa of Lisa's Craft Blog!

_______________________________________________________________________

Hi there!! I'm Lisa and I blog over at Lisa's Craft Blog!! My blog started as just a place for me to share my love of crafting with my friends and family. Last year, I decided to change the focus to a more mainstream craft blog and am loving meeting so many new and wonderful people!!

A while back I'd found the Cell Phone Pocket tutorial here at Fireflies & Jellybeans and thought it was a great idea!!!!

I decided to try it myself and put my own spin on it!! Today I'm going to share with you how I decorated my Cell Phone Pocket using a felt applique and lace. Let's get started on the tutorial!!

SUPPLIES

Felt in desired colors

Velcro

Lace fabric

Lace Trim

Button

Embroidery floss

Fabric glue

Step 1: PREP POCKET FORM

Here are the original instructions on the dimensions for your felt pocket pieces:

1 rectangle of main color (about an inch wider and longer than your cell phone or Ipod)

1 rectangle + strap of main color (the rectangle is the same size as the other one - the strap is 1.5 inches by 5 inches - it should be all one piece)

Sew or stick-on your Velcro pieces to the top of both pieces (as shown above).

Step 2: CUT OUT APPLIQUE PIECES

Trace and cut out your pattern in both felt and the lace fabric.

Note: I used the template found HERE.

Step 3: SEW APPLIQUE

Cut a 3rd piece of felt in your main color that is about 1" shorter and narrower than the smaller pocket form felt piece.

Place your lace piece on top of the felt applique and then using a blanket stitch, sew both pieces at once onto the center of the 3rd piece of felt.

Step 4: ADD LACE TRIM

Using your fabric glue, attach your lace trim under the entire edge of the appliqued felt piece.

Step 5: ATTACH TO POCKET FRONT

Using a back-stitch, sew the lace-trimmed, appliqued piece to the front of the pocket form (smaller felt pocket piece).

Step 6: BLANKET STITCH POCKET

Blanket stitch around the bottom and two sides of your pocket form. Do not sew the top, because you won't be able to put your cell phone in it!!

Step 7: ADD BUTTON (optional)

If you want disguise your Velcro closure to look like a button one, just sew a button on the front of the strap.

FINISHED!!

I hope you enjoyed this little tutorial!! I know I had a blast with it!! You should definitely make one for yourself or as a gift - you'll enjoy it too!!

If you happen to like step-by-step crafty tutorials, I hope you'll stop by Lisa's Craft Blog because I have many for you to browse through. The 3 most popular tutorials right now are the Puzzle Piece Ornaments Tutorial, the Wire-Wrapped Tree of Life Ornament/Pendant Tutorial, and the Christmas Card Book Tutorial.

If you happen to stop by before January 31st, you can even enter my Grand Re-Launch Giveaway to try and win one of 3 crafty prize packages that have a combined value of over $175!! How fun!!

Thanks to Fawnda & Jeannine for allowing me to share my version of their great tutorial!! I've had a great time here at Fireflies & Jellybeans, but now I must head home to Lisa's Craft Blog and give my readers some attention!! hehehe

Thanks for reading!! Until next time...

My word of the year...

2012-01-13T15:19:00.004-06:00

SO, there is something you should know about me... I am a little bit of a rebel [not too much to really get in trouble}. When someone tells me to do something. I want to do the complete opposite. So when the idea of having a word of the year came around... I couldn't just pick ONE word... I had to be a little rebellious.

My word of the year is:

Yep- 2 words! :) But it is one idea so I am going to count it and I hope you do too! I have some ugly parts of me that I need to get rid of. Here are a few ugly things I need to LET GO of this year:

I have a strong sense of fairness. If something is not fair for me or my kids, I get angry and that anger turns to bitterness.

Bitterness eats away at me and I cannot get past it.

To help me let it go, I am going to say this verse when I start to feel the bitterness come on "Proverbs 10:12 Hatred stirs up conflict, but love covers over all wrongs." Out-loud if possible. There is power in God's word and I am going to use it!

I am controlling. Not in the clean-freak, organizing way (I wish I was more like that!), but in a "let me tell you what to do" sort of way. I like to have things go my way. I am a decisive person, and most times I am right {ok- all the time, I am right!} It can drive me crazy if someone does not do something the same way that I would have.

Control...I want total control. It is just not possible.

I don't need to get worked up over other peoples decisions! When I get the urge to control a situation I am going to say to myself "I am not them, they are not me... I am not going to think about it" {there is going to be a lot of self talk this year!}

Judgment just piggy-backs off of my controlling nature. It is so easy for me to jump to judgement when someone chooses a different path than me.

I have always tried to keep this part of me in check, it is the main reason I am not on facebook {Jeannine runs our F&J facebook page}. All those FB statuses to judge...Oh, I could be all kinds of ugly on Facebook. {I am not against FB... it is just not right for me}

Another step to help me out is to have this verse memorized: Luke 6:37 Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. I think the world would be a much better place if we forgave instead of judged.

I have a creative mind. It is great when I am working on crafts during the day... but it is a bit scary at night. My mind races to all sorts of horrible things to worry about and fear. I have some major anxiety at times. To the point of paralyzing panic attacks. I worry about my kids, my husband, my life.

I am letting go of caffeine this year. It is a trigger to my anxiety, so it is going bye-bye. I have been off caffeine for about a month and I don't miss it that much!

I have to repeat outloud what I know about my God.

My God is BIG

My God loves me

My God WILL take care of me and my family.

My God conquered death

My God is in Control (not me!)

My God is WITH ME- all the time

My God knows what is best.

So this year I am going to "Let go and Let God"!

Yep- totally cheesy and cliche but I had to say it because it is true!

What is your word of the year? Leave me a note or a link in my comments!

Show Off your Stuff Party # 109

2012-01-11T16:27:00.000-06:00

Hello and welcome to our Show Off Your Stuff Party!

This week I am showing off:
My new Counter tops on the CHEAP!

My Cute Heart Crafts

Check out our AWESOME giveaway from DailyScoup for your chance to win a $25 Amazon gift card!

Is 2012 the year you want make some money blogging?

One site that I have found helpful in finding sponsors is Social Spark

They match bloggers with advertisers. You get to choose who you promote and how you promote it! It really is a win-win!

Here is the run down:

1. Pay attention! There are 3 categories to link up:

Crafts and Sewing

DIY and Home Decor

Recipes

pick one and go with it!

{If you pick the wrong one... you can delete your own and add it to the right one! :) }

2. Add a link to your specific post, not the main page of your blog.

3. Please do not link up to something that you are just trying to sell.

4. Link to this party from your post so everyone can get in on the fun. You can just grab my button!

DailyScoup deals Giveaway! Amazon Gift card!

2012-01-11T06:00:00.002-06:00

We all love a great deal right!

Anyway we can save a buck or two is awesome!

I am so excited to introduce you to a new daily deal site: DailyScoup!

DailyScoup offers daily deals for 50-90% off! Sounds great right!?

I know that most of you are thinking... "oh, so it is just like Groupon or LivingSocial." Not exactly. Although all these site offer great deals, DailyScoup is able to offer a verity of deals that the others are not.

DailyScoup does not charge the merchant for featuring a deal. This makes DailyScoup merchant friendly and are able to offer deals that Groupon and LivingSocial are not. More verity for you!

Here is how it works: Each sCoupon is $1. Every deal is going to be for 50 -90% off so you will get a GREAT saving for your $1. For example, if a business is offering a 60% off coupon, you pay just $1 for the sCoupon. You will then be able to redeem it at the business paying only 40% for the service.

Now here is how you get in on the giveaway!

DailyScoup is offering 2 Amazon gift cards for $25 each to F&J followers!

To enter go HERE and register at DailyScoup. Come back and tell me you did so {also make sure your e-mail is in your profile or your comment}! That is it!
{*Must be an F&J follower in order to win}

This is a SUPER fast giveaway! So be sure to get your scoup on!
It will only be open for 2 days {until January 12th at midnight}.
The winners will be notified my email on Friday.

Must be over 18 to enter. US resident/mailing addresses only

Good Luck!

Heart Crafts with Lifestyle Crafts!

2012-01-10T06:00:00.013-06:00

Lifestyle Crafts has some new die cuts just in time for Valentines Day! They are the Sweetheart Shapes and I have some fun projects you can do with them to get ready for the big day of love!

The great thing about Lifestyle Crafts die cuts are that they work in most die cutting machines! I have a discount code at the bottom of the post for F&J readers!

For the card and the streamers you will need:

Scrapbook Paper or card-stock

Nesting Heart Die cuts from Lifestyle Crafts.

Sewing machine

For the Card:

Cut your card stock into a 8X6 piece and fold in half. Find the die cuts that will fit on your card.

Cut out your hearts in alternating papers place (do NOT glue) on your card.

Use your sewing machine and sew a line down the middle of the hearts.

Add your embellishments and fold out the sides of the heart to give it a 3-d feel and you are done!

For the Heart Streamers:

Cut out 5 heart shapes in two papers (or one double-sided paper)

Bring you hearts over to your sewing machine. Layer the hearts with wrong-sides-together and line them up along your sewing machine from biggest to smallest.

Sew down the middle of the hearts. When you get to the bottom of one heart line up the next heart and sew down the middle of that one, continuing on so that all the hearts are in a line.

It should look like this:

Make some more and hang them up!

Make your own {no sew} heart patches:

you will need:

Fabric

Nesting Heart die cuts from Lifestyle Crafts (I used the Scallop hearts for this one)

Heat and Bond

Piece of clothing to put the patches on.

Iron on the Heat&Bond to the WRONG side of the fabric {Use the Heat&bond instuctions}. I cut my fabric to be 6 inches wide so that it would fit in to my Epic 6 Die Cutter

Decide what hearts sizes you want to use and run the fabric through the die cutter.

Peel off the paper backing off the Heat&Bond fabric and iron it on to your clothing. I used my patches to cover up dirty knees on some legging. But I think it would be ADORABLE on a shirt or dress for Valentines day!

Get 20% off your order at Lifestyle Crafts with code: FIREFLIES

Don't forget to enter into to Lifestyle Craft's I Made This Challenge! This Giveaway this week, you could win a $500 shopping spree to Lifestyle Crafts along with a bundle of Echo Park Paper!!

Check out DailyScoup for awesome deals... 50-90 % off!

PartyLite Giveaway!

2012-01-09T19:00:00.002-06:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of PartyLite for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.
Now that all the Christmas decorations are down, it feels a little empty in my house. I love having my house look festive for the season. An easy way to redecorate is by changing out your candles and candle holders. PartyLite candles and decor are a great way to "redecorate and refresh" every season at no or nearly no cost by earning scented candles, candle warmers, home decor accessories, reed diffusers and more!

PartyLite is the world's #1 direct seller of premium candles and home-fragrance products. PartyLite has always offered customers Platinum Quality – the very best candles you can buy anywhere! They sell products in over 17 counties and there’s a PartyLite party going on somewhere in the world every 18 seconds! That is a lot of partying... If you haven't been to one, don't you want to see what you are missing out on?! By hosting a party you get all kinds of FREE products!

I am loving all their ScentGlow warmers. With little ones around it is nice not to have an open flame.

PartyLite's Winter/Spring Catalog came out on Dec 16th and includes all the ScentGlow Warmers pictured here!

Party Lite is also giving you a change to shop for Free! They are offering 1 F&J follower a $15 gift Credit to their online store!

To enter you have to Like the PartyLite Facebook page and come back and leave a comment. {Must be an F&J follower to win}

The Fine Print:

Limit one redemption. Valid thru Feb. 15, 2012.
Sorry, this offer is not available for online orders attached to Parties. Discount can be applied to merchandise total only. Cannot be applied to tax or shipping and handling charges.

New Counter Tops for a New Year! {How-to!}

2012-01-09T07:45:00.004-06:00

Our counter tops were old... they needed up dating. New counter tops are expensive and we have other things to spend our money on. They were a plain color yellow. They were not horrible but, they did have a few dings and stains on them.

Enter Giani Granite Counter top paint! Giani Granite paint is your counter top solution that is fun, easy, and beautiful! For a fraction of the cost you can update your counter tops!

Giani Counter top Paint comes in a kit that has EVERYTHING you need to update your counter tops in a weekend. They even include video instructions that walk you through the process step-by-step!

Here is an overview of how to use the product!

Step 1: Clean your counters really good. Fill in any holes or cracks with wood filler. Tape them off. I also use some brown paper to cover my dishwasher.

Step 2: Prime the counter tops. The kit comes with the primer and the roller. We covered our paint tray with tin foil for easy clean up! The coverage of the primer is AWESOME. We needed only one coat! It rolls on very smooth and easy with the roller. My hubby cut in {with the foam brush included in the kit} and I rolled.

We got the Sicilian Sand color kit.

Step 3: Applying the texture look of the granite. The kit comes with three mineral colors and a sponge to apply them with. We cut up the sponge into 3 different sizes {small, medium and large} and used the sponges to apply the different layers. We worked with all three colors at once in a small area and them moved on to the next spot. We also used a stiff brush to cut into some of the harder to reach spots. The video in the kit goes over this technique and it also include a piece of card stock to practice on.

First layer of the mineral color {brown}

Second layer {beige}

Third layer {white}

Here is a shot of the counters once all the layers were done. I love the depth of the colors.

Step 4: Applying the top coat... I did not get pictures of this, but you roller on the clear top coat... careful not to leave any roller lines. The video also goes over this and it is easy to follow... wait for it to dry and do a second coat of the top coat. Now you let it cure for 3 days before you put anything light on it and 14 days total for it to fully cure.

I am not going to lie to you... I was skeptical that this would turn out to look like a nice new counter top. But, Giani Granite Paint does look very nice. I had some friends over and they all noticed the counter tops in a good way. And they all were VERY impressed that I painted them. It looks, feels, and works like professional counter tops!

The counter top's finish holds up great to my everyday wear and tear. The multicolor texture hides the dirt and messes great too! Which is always a bonus with young kids!

It took my hubby and me a weekend to complete this project. It was not hard to do and the video makes it even easier. If you are looking for an inexpensive way to update your counter top, Giani is a way to go!

Check out their video for more information!

*** Disclosure: Giani provided me with the Granite Paint Kit for Free in hopes that I would blog about the results. All opinions are 100% mine.***

Linking to:

Guacamole Recipe! Avocados from Mexico Guac Off recipe Contest!

2012-01-08T21:00:00.001-06:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Avocados from Mexico for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

Guacamole is one of our very favorite dips at my house! My daughter (20 months old) downs the stuff like it is candy! Here is my not-so-secret recipe:

2 Avocados
Cilantro
Purple Onion
garlic powder
Salt
lime

Slice the avocados in half and scoop our the pit with a spoon

Use the spoon to scoop out the fruit {be care to save the shell to use for serving}

Cut the fruit into slices and place in a food processor.

Cut off about a hand full of Cilantro and place in the food processor. Pulse the food processor to chop up the cilantro and avocados

Cut up about 1/3 of the purple onion into small pieces and put in the food processor. Pulse to mix and chop the onions into the dip.

Slice the lime to add the juice. Add Juice to taste. I use about 1/2 of the lime for juice {that gives it a strong lime taste} Also, add Garlic power and salt to taste. I like a little garlic and a lot of salt!

Serve in the empty avocado shell with chips!

I entered my Gauc recipe into the Avocados from Mexico Guac Off Recipe Contest!

Do you have a yummy Guacamole recipe to share? Enter it in to the Avocados from Mexico Guac Off Recipe Contest and you have a chance to win some AWESOME prizes!

Here is the playbook on how to enter!

First Down:
Submit your favorite guacamole recipe using your most valuable player- Avocados from Mexico- along with one photo of the recipe.

Second Down:
Avocados from Mexico will select the top 10 qualified players to be posted on the Avocados from Mexico on Facebook

Third Down:
There will be a grand prize winner in the following three categories: Most Popular, Best Recipe and Most Creative. Avocados from Mexico will choose the Most Creative recipe, Chef Roberto Santibañez will choose the Best Recipe, and Most Popular will be chosen by the Facebook voters. Touch Down!

You all should huddle your teammates- friends, family and coworkers- to vote for your recipe and win the Most Popular category!

Here is the prize package:

Three lucky winners will receive an iPad 2 and autographed cookbook by Celebrity Chef Roberto Santibañez and 7 runners-up will receive a $200 grocery gift card and autographed cookbook by Celebrity Chef Roberto Santibañez.

Plus, just for playing, all entrants are automatically entered into a separate sweepstakes for a chance to win a $100 grocery gift card. Ten winners will be selected.

Check out some more Avocados from Mexico recipes too!

Let me know if your enter! I would LOVE to see your recipe!

Goals for F&J in 2012

2012-01-06T09:51:00.000-06:00

I have been thinking and formulating plans for F&J for a while now. I even asked you to take a survey to help in these plans (You still can take the Survey HERE!). Here are some of the results of the survey... because I LOVE numbers!

Types of projects:
{People could choose more then one option}

83% of you like Home Decor projects best
68% of you like Sewing projects best
41% of you like paper crafts
41% of you like party ideas

How you feel about different articles on F&J:

100% love/like DIY Tutorials
73% love/like Guest posts
53% love/like Giveaways... 8% found giveaways annoying
67% love/like Craft item reviews
59% love/like Iron Crafter... 12% have never heard of it.
92% love/like Show Off Your Stuff Party
75% love/like Craft Challenges/ Themed Linky parties
77% love/like Personal blog posts

My thoughts on the survey:
Overall I am so happy that you like/love F&J! Thanks so much for you awesome feedback! I now know to work on more home decor and sewing projects...but will also keep paper crafts and party ideas around too!

I have mostly kept our craft blog free of most of my personal stuff. I figured most of you come to see my DIY tutorials and are not interested in me and all my problems... but I was wrong (77% of you love/like that kind of stuff!). I will try to have more personal content here on the blog... probably on the weekends. I feel like God is laying some things on my heart to share so I will start with those! :)

Here is what I am keeping:
DIY tutorials... lots of them!
Show Off Your Stuff Party
Craft Challenges/ Themed linky parties
Giveaways - I know that some of you find them annoying but they are a fun way to introduce a new company to you so I am going to keep them... if you don't like them you can skip those posts!

Here is what I am adding:
Personal blog posts

Here is what I am considering dropping:
Iron Crafter... it is a lot of work and I am not sure if a little over half of you love/liking it is enough... I have not fully decided on this one yet and may try to think of an edited version of it.

Some other goals for F&J:
I want to get back to painting and drawing again. I love to draw/paint and did it a lot before I had kids. I want to get back into that skill and I will probably showcase some of my work here... if it fits to have a tutorial I will absolutely include that!

I also want to create more printables for you here on the blog. If it is a pattern or design or art I want to offer more ways for you to make a craft! I think I only made 2 this year so I think I can improve upon that! :)

Use F&J for the greater good. God has really been hitting me hard with this. With the small success I have seen with this blog comes opportunity to help others. I don't want this blog to be about me, me. me... I want to make a difference. Some ideas are still getting worked out... but I will share them with you as soon as I get them sorted out!

I'd love to hear your thoughts!