Spice Drop Christmas Tree

So this Spice Drop Christmas Tree is so cute and it tastes great also.  How fun to work on a craft/decoration that you can eat also.  It is really easy to make, a little time consuming, but very easy.

Spice Drop Christmas Tree

Supplies:

1 Styrofoam Cone (mine was 12 inches high)

3 2 lb containers of red and green spice drops

1 box of 750 toothpicks

Directions:

Put a spice drop on each toothpick, I did one container at a time.

Break off the end of the toothpick, so it's not so long.

Start at the top of the cone and just start putting the spice on the tree so that they are touching.  

Work down the whole cone this way, until you finish at the bottom.

Now wasn't that easy.  Have fun, and there should be a few extra to eat also.

Merry Christmas!

Debi
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Wednesday's Adorned From Above Link Party 71

We want to thank everyone who shared with Wednesday's Adorned From Above Link Party 70.  We love seeing all of your posts.

There will not be another party until January 7th.  I will share all of the features from this party on the 7th of January.  I did not want to do a party on Christmas Eve or New Years Eve.  So I will see all of you next year.  Happy Holidays.

I would like to ask a favor for this week.  I was trying to become an affiliate for a company, and they said that I needed 3000 twitter followers.  I am not even close, but I would love it if you would follow me on twitter if you don't already.  I'm sorry to bother all of you with this, but I need to get that count up in the next 3 months, before I can reapply to this company.  Thank you.7 Things I Look For on Your Blog from Let It Shine

Welcome to Wednesday's Adorned From Above Blog Hop 71.

Now for this weeks featured bloggers.

Featured Bloggers from Blog Hop 70

1.  7 Things I Look For On Your Blog from Let It Shine

2.  Insatiable Flower from Abstract Photos

3.  Chocolate Peanut Butter Bar Cheesecake Pie from Sweet Pepper Rose

4.  It's Not About Her from The Blish

5.  Oreo Cookie Ball Santa Hats from Melissa's Cuisine

6.  Swan Cream Puffs from Crafts Ala Mode

7.  Gingerbread Christmas Tree from Shopgirl

8.  Making a Memory Instead of a Wish List from Around The Table

So on to this weeks party.

We hope you have fun at this week's party.  We always love hearing from you, so leave your comments.

Now let's party

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!!

Ribbon and Feather Wrapped Ornaments

I love the way these Ribbon and Feather Wrapped Ornaments came out.  They were so easy to make.  They look so cute on our Christmas Tree.  Such a simple craft for Christmas.  

Ribbon and Feather Wrapped Ornaments

Supplies:

Spools of 2 inch Wire Ribbon (in colors of your choice)

2 lengths of feather (I found them in the craft section of Michael's, they are approximately 4 feet long) (colors of your choice)

straight pins

6  Styrofoam balls (10 inches in circumference)

Directions for Ribbon Balls:

Cut 6 7 inches strips of wire ribbon

Fold over ends 1/4 of an inch

Put end of 1st ribbon at the top of the ball and hold in place at the top and the bottom of the ball.

Do the same thing with your next ribbon, layering over the side of the 1st ribbon.

Work this way all of the way around the ball, and then pin at the top and the bottom of the ball.

Now cut 1 8 inch strip of ribbon, fold in half and twist the bottom of the ribbon and pin it to the top of the ball.  This is what you will hang it from the tree with.

Directions for the Feather Balls:

Pin the top of the length of feathers to the top of the ball, and then spin the ball and pin the feathers in a spiral down the ball until you get to the bottom.  I pinned the feathers down about every 1/2 of a row.

Aren't these easy to do?  I love the way they came out.  I hope you have fun making these.

Happy Holidays.

Debi

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Christmas Bible Verses Countdown Part 3

The star in The Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem signifying the birthplace of Jesus

This is part three of the Christmas Bible Verses Countdown to Christmas.  I originally saw this on Pinterest.  I wish I a could post a link to the specific post, but when I went to the website, it's no longer there. Here is the link to the pin on Pinterest, Mariah's Cooking Channel - Christmas Countdown Bible Verses.  So I decided to reproduce the list on my own and I sharing the verses for December 15th and December 16th for this week.  I hope that you'll read along with me this month.  I'll be sharing a few verses each week.

December 15th, 2013

2:8  And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. 

2:9  And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. 

2:10  And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. 

2:11  For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. 

2:12  And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

Luke 2:8-12

December 16th, 2013

2:13  And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, 

2:14  Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. 

Luke 2:13-14

I love reading these verses.  I reminds me of being a kids and being in chapel at school.  This is just so beautiful.  I'll be back next week.

Have a blessed week.

Debi

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Laura Jean Dolls on Etsy

Today, I would love to introduce to my, Aunt Laura, from Laura Jean Dolls on Etsy.  She is one of the most creative people that I know.  She was a home ec teacher and high school counselor and is extremely talented.  Aunt Laura does everything from cooking, to decorating, and entertaining.  The list goes on and on.

She makes fabulous Art Dolls and has been written up in Art Doll Magazine several times.   She also makes Miniatures which are truly one of a kind, amazing works of art.

Here are just a few of the dolls and miniatures available at Laura Jean Dolls.

Chef Mario Batali

Tom Selleck as Jesse Stone Police Chief

Blondie and Dagwood

This Christmas Shop is one of her newest ones and it is so cute.

Grandma's Kitchen 1949 Miniature Diorama Room 

Box

This is actually one of my favorites, since it reminds me of my great grandma.  My aunt gives a little history of my grandma in the description of the room box.  There is one she made of my grandma's living room from a picture and it was and exact replica of that room.

I hope that you'll head over and take a look at all of her fabulous dolls and miniatures.  She also does special orders.  It's a little late this Christmas, but maybe for another occasion.

Have a great weekend.

Debi

This is not a sponsored ad.  I just wanted to share my talented Aunt's work with all of you.

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Craftsy Flash Sale for Yarn and Fabric

Craftsy Flash Sale for Yarn and Fabric

Still haven't found the perfect present for the crafter in your life? Stuff their stockings with fabric and yarn from Craftsy! From  Friday, December 13th until Monday December 16th, designer yarn is on sale up to 80% off and designer fabric is up to 65% off. Order by 12/16 to guarantee delivery by 12/24...sorry, this is only for US residents. Hurry over to Craftsy! This sale expires on December 16 at midnight MT.

Craftsy 80% Off Yarn Flash Sale through 12/16
Craftsy 65% Off Fabric Flash Sale through 12/16

Have a great weekend.

Debi

This ad is sponsored by Craftsy

Sparkling Apple Pie for Friday's Happy Hour

Today we are serving Sparkling Apple Pies for Friday's Happy Hour.  These drinks were very simple to make and lots of fun to drink.  Just two ingredients and you have a cocktail.  I liked it also, because it felt so festive the bubbles.

Sparkling Apple Pies

Ingredients:

10 oz sparkling apple juice

4 oz Travis Hasse's Apple Pie Liqeuer

Directions:

Measure sparkling apple juice and the Apple Pie Liqeuer into a 2 cup measuring cup.

Stir.

Pour into 2 glasses over ice.

Serves 2 cocktails.

Now wasn't that easy.  Wait until you taste it.  It is very, very good.

Have a great weekend.

Debi
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Making memories: Share the experience of a unique children’s book from Blurb

There’s something about the holidays—that warm glow from the fire, the fact that you actually get to spend time with your kids (or your friends’ and family’s kids)—that makes it the perfect time to curl up with the little ones in your life and read them a storybook. Reading a totally new, beautiful, amazing book with a child is a treasured holiday experience. And if you choose the right book, every time the child reads it alone in the future will bring back the memory of that time you shared.

If you’re a little tired of the standard children’s book selections in your local brick and mortar store, Blurb has a really incredible assortment of self-published children’s books that you won’t find anywhere else this holiday season. Try a few of these future classics and create some new holiday memories this year.

Title: Ollie + Loo

Author: Joni Cooper

www.blurb.com/b/4554150-ollie-+-loo

Joni Cooper brings incredibly original characters to life with brilliant illustrations in a book that will have parents and kids laughing along together.

Title: Edward Hopper and the Carrot Crunch

Author: Mike Smith

www.blurb.com/books/1189264-edward-hopper-and-the-carrot-crunch 

Very few children’s books have financial mismanagement as a central theme—we can only assume most children’s book authors have not had the pleasure of meeting a rabbit named Edward Hopper.

Title: My Bug Journal

Author: Hannah Rollings

www.blurb.com/b/1925331-my-bug-journal

Bug-lover or other, this journal is sure to spark interest from anyone who takes a peek inside the covers. Enchanted illustrations, bug facts, room for records and much, much more.

Title: Myrtle & the Scarecrow

Author: Kate Lowe

www.blurb.com/b/4662116-myrtle-the-scarecrow 

Myrtle finds solace with a not-so-scary scarecrow?and learns a lot about herself? in this short but sweet tale. The atmospheric illustrations have a little magic about them—we look forward to more from this young, talented illustrator.

Title: The Trouble with Bears

Author: K.D. O’Reilley

www.blurb.com/b/400437-the-trouble-with-bears?pid=Featured 

This story cleverly combines a lesson on self-worth with an exploration of different cultures, geography, and history. The talents of a former writing instructor and a visual artist are a winning combination here.

Title: Mylo & Peet

Author: Janyce Portalatin 

www.blurb.com/b/4290427-mylo-peet

A graphically pleasing book with a message tailor-made for the new generation of eco-warriors the importance of recycling and protecting the planet.

Title: Theo

Author: Kenny Lim & Grant Gilliand

www.blurb.com/b/781375-theo?pid=Featured

Join Theo on his journey as he navigates the obstacles and challenges of school—made all the more difficult due to his not-so-normal third eye. Fantastic illustrations bring this story’s great message to life.

Title: A Whimsical Tale of Invention

Author: Kara Pooley

www.blurb.com/b/628072-a-whimsical-tale-of-invention 

Fascinating facts, inspired inventions, intriguing illustrations, a poem or two—this book has it all.

Title: Ahwen’s Journal

Author: Alice Alder

www.blurb.com/b/4291566-ahwen-s-journal

It would be impossible not to fall in love with the beautifully illustrated characters in this book. Ahwen, Harn, Charwood—we’ll be keeping an eye out for you the next time we’re in the woods.

Title: Marco and the Zombies

Author: Justin Kerr

www.blurb.com/b/1360926-marco-and-the-zombies?pid=Featured 

Another collaborative project delivers a brilliant book. With Zombies at the heart of this story—and superb illustrations by Bret Bowers—it’s one older children are sure to enjoy.

Title: Baby Bear gets a Present

Author: Chris Wood

www.blurb.com/b/4387364-baby-bear-gets-a-present

Even toys relegated to a box in a forgotten corner of the house have lives of their own. In this heartwarming tale we learn just how much fun they have.

Title: Penelope and her Puffy Brown Crown

Author: Jasmin Ortiz

www.blurb.com/b/4181634-penelope-and-her-puffy-brown-crown-paperback

Popping with color and originality, this rhythmical story makes reading aloud a real pleasure. Apparently, bad hair-days happen to young people too.

Title: My Best Friend

Author: Nathalie Josephine 

www.blurb.com/b/4295225-my-best-friend

In this lovely little book, bright (and very cute) characters illustrate a story designed to help children deal with the loss of a friend.

Title: A Bit Lost

Author: Leanne New

www.blurb.com/b/4275053-a-bit-lost

Delightful creativity elevates the imagery in this standout book, a simple tale of lost-and-found for little ones.

Title: The Goose Girl

Author: Madeleine Valley

www.blurb.com/b/4274145-the-goose-girl 

A lesser-known story by The Brothers Grimm gets a thoroughly modern makeover in this graphically rich retelling of Goose Girl from Madeleine Valley. This is one for the older bunch.

Title: The Great Bear Surprise

Author: Carolan Coughlin

www.blurb.com/b/4259737-the-great-bear-surprise

Join Carolan on her hike up Red Plume Mountain where she discovers much more than the view of the surrounding landscape. This is a sweet story of unexpected friendship.

Title: Goodnight Forest

Author: Emilie Dale

www.blurb.com/b/3018559-good-night-forest

See your little ones off to sleep and bid goodnight to the forest with this rhythmic wind-down bedtime book, from graphic designer and illustrator Emilie Dale.

Title: The Adventures of Dude, Squat and Mose
Author: Michael Hall
http://www.blurb.com/b/4720681-the-adventures-of-dude-squat-and-mose
With fabulous illustrations from Gerald Kelley and a fun-packed story from author Michael Hall, the adventures of this brave trio of adopted dogs if sure to become a favorite.

All of these books are so cute.  There is one for every child in your life.

Have a great weekend.

Debi

This post by is sponsored by Blurb

Homemade Cranberry Sauce

This is a great recipe for Homemade Cranberry Sauce.  I use apples and spices in this recipe, which I love.  I love cranberry jelly, but this is good also, and is always a request from my kids.  I also love that it is so easy to make.

Homemade Cranberry Sauce

Ingredients:

1 bag fresh or frozen cranberries

2 granny smith applesl, peeled and chopped

1 cup sugar

1 cup water

1 tsp cinnamon

1/2 tsp nutmeg

Directions:

Place all of the ingredients in a sauce pan and bring to a boil over medium high heat.

Reduce heat to medium and simmer stirring occasionally for another 20 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and apples are soft.

Remove from stove and cool. 

It will thicken as it cools.

Makes 6 to 8 servings

I hope that you enjoy this Homemade Cranberry Sauce recipe.

Have a great holiday season.

Debi and Charly

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Wire Wrapped Bracelet for Christmas Presents

Today I am sharing the pictures of the Wire Wrapped Bracelets that I have made for Christmas Presents this year.  I love the way they came out.  The pale pink and pale blue ones are for some very cute little girls.  The aqua one I gave to a friend, and the Pearl Cross is for Charly.

I have been having a great time making jewelry for Christmas gifts this year, and I have really love the way they are coming out.  I have learned how to make these on Craftsy's

Online Wire Wrapped Jewelry Making Class.

I will share more the the jewelry that I have been making next week.  I make some cute Wire Wrapped Turquoise Teardrop Earrings, and I'm working on a bracelet for my Mom and some other friends.  I think I'm even going to try a necklace.  I would do a tutorial on making this jewelry, but I'm not that good yet.  I need to practice a little more, but you can take the Craftsy class and learn to make them yourselves.

Have fun, and I hope you take a class to see how much fun it is.

Have a great week.

Debi

I put that this is a sponsored ad earlier.  I do earn money if you sign up for a Craftsy class, but I have written this post because I these are actually Christmas presents that I have been making for my family.  Not at the instigation of any sponsor, but because I am having a blast making these pieces of jewelry.  I loved this Craftsy class and keep going back to it to learn more techniques.

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