tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-51309220302688382592024-03-12T20:55:07.585-04:00365 DesignsAn innovative custom living blog featuring DIY decor, creative recipes, seasonal home style, and the latest on-trend ideas, tutorials, and projects to try - 365 days a year.Dean Ludingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13114015575030599967noreply@blogger.comBlogger123125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130922030268838259.post-74765879523236661142022-06-18T13:00:00.000-04:002022-06-18T17:12:06.979-04:00Father's Day Grillin' Gift Basket Crate<div style="text-align: justify;">
Thanks to Collective Bias, Inc. and its
advertiser for sponsoring today's post. All opinions are mine alone. #KingsfordFlavor
#CollectiveBias
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-muNUH2fz0qg/VYIyxgGkTII/AAAAAAAAEy4/0PoCAYLTIbI/s1600/fathers%2Bday%2Bgift%2Bbasket%2B333.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-muNUH2fz0qg/VYIyxgGkTII/AAAAAAAAEy4/0PoCAYLTIbI/s1600/fathers%2Bday%2Bgift%2Bbasket%2B333.jpg" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;"> I can’t tell you how many times people have asked for suggestions on unique homemade gifts for their husbands, boyfriends or fathers. I admit it can be a little tricky. As much as he might love that brand new chainsaw, wrapped in a big red bow, it may not be the most creative, personal gift you can give. I think I may have come up with something that the man in your life might really love - a handmade gift that he'll actually enjoy.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> This great gift basket is not only awesome for Father's Day but for any
occasion. Plus, I think that I might have squeezed just about everything but the grill, into this present. It just might be the perfect gift for anyone who loves to BBQ.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> <a href="http://www.365designs.com/2015/06/fathers-day-grillin-gift-basket-crate.html" target="_blank">Keep reading</a> and I'll show exactly what you need to make this great gift. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">
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<a class="nopin" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qaDDwxk_-ew/VX0065h2ScI/AAAAAAAAEwk/9eku6aVcHdM/s1600/you%2527ll%2Bneed.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qaDDwxk_-ew/VX0065h2ScI/AAAAAAAAEwk/9eku6aVcHdM/s1600/you%2527ll%2Bneed.jpg" /></a></div>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00TYQ9LRO/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=211189&creative=373489&creativeASIN=B00TYQ9LRO&link_code=as3&tag=365desig0b-20&linkId=BININAGEIFA2OEJ7" target="_blank">Large Wood Pallet Crate</a></li>
<li>Burlap </li>
<li><a href="http://www.kqzyfj.com/click-7709888-11781554-1399327153000" target="_blank">Sharpie markers <i>(brown and black)</i></a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007C7XTN4/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=211189&creative=373489&creativeASIN=B007C7XTN4&link_code=as3&tag=365desig0b-20&linkId=DEPCIGBBNTZ35MNU" target="_blank">Martha Stewart Typewriter Stencils </a></li>
<li>0000 Steel Wool</li>
<li>White Vinegar </li>
<li><a href="http://cbi.as/cj8u" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Kingsford Charcoal bags</a></li>
<li>Grilling cookbooks, Grilling Tools set, BBQ sauces etc. </li>
</ul>
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To make this gift basket, the first thing you need is a
<a href="http://www.kqzyfj.com/click-7709888-11781554-1399327153000" target="_blank">wooden storage crate.</a> I found mine at <a href="http://www.kqzyfj.com/click-7709888-11781554-1399327153000" target="_blank">Michael's</a>. It ended up being the
perfect size. They often run sales and have great coupons each week so
you can find one for a great price. </div>
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For the grilling tools and
accessories I went to The Home Depot. Of course you want to go with the
best stuff so grab the Kingsford Original Twinpack charcoal. It burns nicely and
gives a great grilled flavor to your food. You'll also want to pick up some good steak sauce and maybe even a grilling cookbook or two. </div>
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<a class="nopin" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z7vu7gGuKaE/VX5JmnJUQdI/AAAAAAAAExA/cCtG6SzoeaI/s1600/begin%2Bby.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z7vu7gGuKaE/VX5JmnJUQdI/AAAAAAAAExA/cCtG6SzoeaI/s1600/begin%2Bby.jpg" /></a></div>
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To begin your gift basket you're going to first want to prep your wood crate by lightly staining it. </div>
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I am absolutely obsessed with this new wood stain I discovered browsin' the interweb. Not only is it completely safe, non-toxic and water based, it's also homemade. That's right! This is a wood stain you make yourself. It's so easy and it only has 2 ingredients: steel wool and vinegar! Plus, I love anything that cleans up with simple soap and water.</div>
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This stain works by creating a chemical reaction between the iron and oxygen creating ... rust! You're basically recreating the way wood ages outside in the elements. You can find a great simple <a href="http://www.instructables.com/id/Steel-Wool-and-Vinegar-Wood-AgingEbonizingWeathe/" target="_blank">tutorial here.</a> </div>
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I like to really splash on the stain and get into all of the corners and crevices. This creates a nice aged and antiqued look. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xSmo-0lMOf8/VX5XTQ68a1I/AAAAAAAAEyU/0MbDxSsqyG0/s1600/01c24e1551c9457250a8ea546846ba7e8f5ea44f45.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xSmo-0lMOf8/VX5XTQ68a1I/AAAAAAAAEyU/0MbDxSsqyG0/s1600/01c24e1551c9457250a8ea546846ba7e8f5ea44f45.jpg" /></a></div>
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Before diving straight into the stenciling you'll definitely want to practice first. Use a pencil with the stencils and lightly mark the wood to get an idea of the way the words will look. You'll probably want to center whatever you decide to write on the crate.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5vGb8muGUQk/VX5XRpEUAsI/AAAAAAAAExk/zEvpihRC-sQ/s1600/0122015057cd1985342ce9dfcd009324f7f685a3ae.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5vGb8muGUQk/VX5XRpEUAsI/AAAAAAAAExk/zEvpihRC-sQ/s1600/0122015057cd1985342ce9dfcd009324f7f685a3ae.jpg" /></a></div>
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Use the brown sharpie first and fill in the stencils. While the marker ink is still wet lightly smear horizontally with the wood grain. This gives the appearance of wood burning in which you would actually brand the letters into the wood with a heat tool. Next use the black sharpie in the very center of the letter's lines.<br />
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Erase any remaining pencil marks.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VCATS4VXato/VX5XTTK3JFI/AAAAAAAAEyQ/c3-qG4XkTpY/s1600/01c6920047a3be38de7fa4044841edf977b3f8baf5.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VCATS4VXato/VX5XTTK3JFI/AAAAAAAAEyQ/c3-qG4XkTpY/s1600/01c6920047a3be38de7fa4044841edf977b3f8baf5.jpg" /></a></div>
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Now all that's left to do if fill your crate. One secret trick I learned from a friend of mine, who was a gift basket makin' queen, is to use lots of clear shipping tape. This will hold everything in place and is nearly invisible. You may also want to use packing bubbles to elevate some of the smaller products in the crate. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XzC9iqUYgS4/VYIyujQIKaI/AAAAAAAAEyw/M2EngWxsiaA/s1600/Father%2527s%2BDay%2Bwhite%2Bbackground%2Bsquare%2Bsmaller.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XzC9iqUYgS4/VYIyujQIKaI/AAAAAAAAEyw/M2EngWxsiaA/s1600/Father%2527s%2BDay%2Bwhite%2Bbackground%2Bsquare%2Bsmaller.jpg" /></a></div>
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That's all there is too it. </div>
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Pretty simple right! </div>
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A unique handmade gift <strike>basket</strike> crate<br />
that can be made with just a few simple supplies.</div>
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Now you have the absolute perfect present for </div>
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the charcoal grillin' BBQ lovin' person </div>
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in your family!!!</div>
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You'll also definitely want to check out<br />
<a href="http://cbi.as/cja6" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Kingsford's recipe page</a> <br />
where you'll find a ton of great recipes<br />
for grilling and barbequing!<br />
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This is one you'll definitely want to try:<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://cbi.as/cja6" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><b> BBQ Chicken Pizza with Veggies</b></a></span></div>
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<a href="http://cbi.as/cja6" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img attachment-600x600="" class="nopin" lt="http://cbi.as/cja6" src="https://www.kingsford.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/240_tile.jpg" wp-post-image="" /></a></div>
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Credit: HV Test Kitchen</div>
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Please be sure to follow on </div>
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In the grilling mood? Head over to your nearest
<a href="http://cbi.as/cj8u" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Home Depot store</a> to pick up your Kingsford Charcoal Twinpack. This week you can find it over half off !!!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://cbi.as/cj8u" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Click here to find the store nearest you.</a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tk1u1z2WoCo/VX5Nb0dpYpI/AAAAAAAAExM/zJquXK8MksQ/s1600/LINE.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tk1u1z2WoCo/VX5Nb0dpYpI/AAAAAAAAExM/zJquXK8MksQ/s1600/LINE.png" /></a></div>
<br />Dean Ludingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13114015575030599967noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130922030268838259.post-85831013288152224282019-05-19T16:38:00.004-04:002022-06-18T17:25:50.995-04:00Family Crafts: Watermelon Crate <div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Watermelon colored DIY wood storage crate for summer kids crafts" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-6267" src="https://targetmademedoit.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/watermelon-target-crate-hero-image.jpg" style="text-align: left;" title="Watermelon colored DIY wood storage crate" /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"> You know that summer has officially arrived when school is out for the year. Every June millions of kids count down the weeks until summer break looking forward to the days of sun, fun and most of all, no homework! And while <em>they</em> can't wait until the school free days of summer, parents are scrambling for activities to keep their little bundles of energy occupied for the next few months. Well, we have the perfect project for you and your kids to create together this summer. It's a craft that both you and your children will enjoy.</div>
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Nothing says summer like freshly sliced watermelon. This craft captures the essence of the season with a brightly colored watermelon inspired crate. You can keep all of your kids toys neat and organized in this fun brightly colored container. Best of all, it's easy to make, fun to paint and will keep the kids occupied for hours.</div>
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<span style="color: #99cc00;"><strong>STEP ONE:</strong></span>
Gather your supplies. You'll need a <a href="http://goto.target.com/c/264230/81938/2092?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Fwood-small-milk-crate-threshold-153%2F-%2FA-51467936" target="_blank">wood crate</a> in the size of your choice. Target has some great options. You'll also need a basic acrylic or chalk paint set. <a href="http://goto.target.com/c/264230/81938/2092?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Fkid-made-modern-8ct-acrylic-paints-2oz%2F-%2FA-50300507" target="_blank">I love Target's brightly colored Kid Made Modern Paints</a>.
<img alt="" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-6245" height="531" src="https://targetmademedoit.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Watermelon-target5-750.jpg" width="750" />
<span style="color: #99cc00;"><strong>STEP TWO:</strong></span>
Paint the sides and bottom slats of the crate with bright green.
<img alt="" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-6246" height="533" src="https://targetmademedoit.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Watermelon-target4-750.jpg" width="750" />
<span style="color: #99cc00;"><strong>STEP THREE:</strong></span>
Paint the top slats pink. I chose to go for a subtle ombre look and paint the bottom slats a darker pink and gradually lightening the color as I went up. Paint the inside of your crate to match.
<img alt="" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-6248" height="580" src="https://targetmademedoit.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Watermelon-target2-750.jpg" width="750" />
<img alt="" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-6247" height="588" src="https://targetmademedoit.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Watermelon-target3-750.jpg" width="750" />
<span style="color: #99cc00;"><strong>STEP FOUR:</strong></span>
Add "seeds" to your watermelon crate with short black paint strokes.
<img alt="" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-6249" height="500" src="https://targetmademedoit.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Watermelon-target1-750.jpg" width="750" />
<img alt="" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-6266" height="750" src="https://targetmademedoit.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/watermelon-target-crate-hero-image-square.jpg" width="750" />
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Try experimenting with assorted fruits and a variety of colors. Make a matching set of watermelon, strawberry and lemon crates. You could even give each child an assigned fruit and see what they come up with! The possibilities are endless. This fun craft will keep your kids occupied for hours this summer while keeping their creativity up during the long summer break.<br />
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<span><!--more--></span><span><!--more--></span><span><!--more--></span><span><!--more--></span>Dean Ludingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13114015575030599967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130922030268838259.post-44766529009810829512019-02-14T14:37:00.000-05:002019-02-17T00:43:05.017-05:00Valentine's Day Heart Canvas Tote Bag with Printable Stencil<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KFPQFM_w2a8/WoSYB2O_cfI/AAAAAAAAI0U/Zvky1HF-ejcOxvVyyQoXpwpUGWNYJATagCLcBGAs/s1600/Target-Hero-image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1045" data-original-width="750" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KFPQFM_w2a8/WoSYB2O_cfI/AAAAAAAAI0U/Zvky1HF-ejcOxvVyyQoXpwpUGWNYJATagCLcBGAs/s1600/Target-Hero-image.jpg" /></a><br />
Valentine’s Day is one of my favorite times for crafting. There are so many ways to be inspired and such a huge variety of projects create. It’s the perfect opportunity for family to gather and celebrate the idea of Valentine’s Day together.</div>
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One of the most common questions I get from moms is how they can spend more time with their children, especially teenagers. They want fun, creative crafts that can be done by the entire family. Well, this holiday is perfect for just that. Creating Valentine’s inspired gifts is a project children, teens and adults will all enjoy.</div>
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I have a great tutorial for Valentine's inspired tote bags that couldn't be easier. I’ll show you step by step how to create a functional and stylish Valentine’s Day tote. You'll be able to find nearly everything you need right at Target. So moms, grab your supplies and gather your family, this will be a craft everyone will love! And isn’t that what Valentine’s Day is really all about.<br />
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<span style="color: #de5071;"><strong>YOU'LL NEED:</strong></span></h3>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://goto.target.com/c/218231/81938/2092?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Fcanvas-market-bag-assorted-styles-smith-hawken-153%2F-%2FA-51705701%23lnk%3Dsametab" target="_blank">Canvas</a> or Straw Tote Bag</li>
<li>Silhouette White<a href="http://goto.target.com/c/218231/81938/2092?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Fcricut-printable-sticker-paper%2F-%2FA-21483316%23lnk%3Dsametab" target="_blank"> Sticker Paper</a></li>
<li>Foam Pouncer</li>
<li>Handmade Modern <a href="http://goto.target.com/c/218231/81938/2092" target="_blank">Acrylic Paint</a> white, pink</li>
<li>Fabric Medium</li>
<li>Printable stencil template</li>
</ul>
<img alt="Target13" class="alignnone wp-image-3392 size-full" src="https://targetmademedoit.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Target13.jpg" />
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Print out your free heart ombre stencil printable by right-clicking on the image and choosing "Save Image as." Save your image to your PC (remember what folder you save it in) Use your printer software to print image, full size, on your 8 1/2 x 11 size silhouette sticker paper.</div>
<img alt="Heart-Stencil-365-designs-for-Target-made-me-do-it" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-3395" src="https://targetmademedoit.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Heart-Stencil-365-designs-for-Target-made-me-do-it-1.jpg" />
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<h3>
<span style="color: #de5071;"><strong>BEGIN BY:</strong></span></h3>
<strong>Step 1:</strong> Iron your canvas bag to remove any fold lines or creases. If you're using a straw tote you can omit this step. <strong>Step 2:</strong> Fold printed template along dotted lines. Cut our heart shapes. <img alt="Target heart stencil cut" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-3396" src="https://targetmademedoit.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Target11.jpg" /> <strong>Step 3:</strong> Peel off backing a press firmly on bag. <img alt="Target heart stencil place" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-3397" src="https://targetmademedoit.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Target9.jpg" /> <strong>Step 4:</strong> Mix pink paint into the white adding a little at a time until desired color is achieved. <strong>Step 5:</strong> Add fabric medium following manufacturer labeled instructions. Martha Stewart Crafts Fabric Medium uses a ratio of 1 part medium to 2 parts paint. <img alt="Target4" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-3399" src="https://targetmademedoit.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Target4.jpg" /> <strong>Step 6:</strong> Sparingly dip pouncer into paint. Blot off extra onto scrap paper or paper plate. Apply lightly using and up and down "pouncing" motion. Avoid overloading your areas with too much paint. <img alt="Target6" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-3400" src="https://targetmademedoit.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Target6.jpg" /> <strong>Step 7:</strong> Remove stencil while paint is still wet. Dry thoroughly according to manufacturer's recommendations before using. <img alt="Target" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-3401" src="https://targetmademedoit.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Target.jpg" /> <img alt="DIY Valentine's Tote Bag" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-3390" src="https://targetmademedoit.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Target-tote-square.jpg" />
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Try experimenting with different colors to create a vibrant rainbow effect. You could even mix in a little metallic paint for a bag that really shines. <a href="http://goto.target.com/c/218231/81938/2092?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Fhand-made-modern-liquid-dye-set-4-per-pack%2F-%2FA-50299170%23lnk%3Dsametab" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Target </a>also has a great line of<a href="http://goto.target.com/c/218231/81938/2092?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Fstencil1-174-pineapple-stencil-5-75-x-6%2F-%2FA-51955644%23lnk%3Dsametab" target="_blank"> stencils</a> that would allow you to personalize your bag and give it your own unique style. No matter what design you choose to create you'll do it spending time with the ones you love, the perfect way to celebrate the season.<br />
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Dean Ludingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13114015575030599967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130922030268838259.post-68186573961813984462018-06-08T02:12:00.000-04:002018-07-14T01:33:38.518-04:00DIY Geometric Himmeli Hanging Basket <div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="text-align: start;">Thanks to Monrovia for sponsoring today's post. My love for Monrovia plants is 100% true! All opinions expressed are entirely my own.</span> </i><br />
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One of the hottest trends for the home is Scandinavian design. It's sleek, modern, sophisticated and minimalist. Bare woods and metals are a must. Simplicity is imperative. It's the complete removal of cluttered decor while adding functionality to each detail of the home. I love it simply for the fact that it makes my house feel clean, neat and organized while still allowing me to keep my own unique style. </div>
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I decided to run with the Nordic theme and bring it to the outside of the house. I wanted to create a unique hanging basket for my front entryway. I decided to put a spin on a traditional wire hanging basket and thought a himmeli style design would be the perfect choice. .If you aren't familiar with himmeli, you're in for a treat! Not only are they fun to make, but amazing to look at! The geometric shape of the designs is mesmerizing. </div>
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For this next DIY tutorial I'm jumping on board the <a href="http://www.elledecor.com/design-decorate/trends/g2475/scandinavian-trends/" target="_blank">Scandinavian</a> design train. This was one of my absolute favorite outdoor decor projects to create. It's minimal and modern and adds a bit of unique style to a traditional <a href="https://ooh.li/5e92b68" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">hanging basket.</a> I also found a new favorite hybrid plant, the SuperCal® Petchoa, that I'm absolutely in love with. Keep reading for all of the details on this super easy hanging plant basket tutorial. </div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vv991DY9o1g/WQ_apePEQfI/AAAAAAAAIXs/qRJZ9gsvaoUmiWyY6AcxGYwfV9kvkliSwCLcB/s1600/Monrovia-DIY-Hanging-Basket-Geometric-Himmeli-hero-text.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Create an outdoor hanging basket geometric himmeli planter in brass." border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vv991DY9o1g/WQ_apePEQfI/AAAAAAAAIXs/qRJZ9gsvaoUmiWyY6AcxGYwfV9kvkliSwCLcB/s1600/Monrovia-DIY-Hanging-Basket-Geometric-Himmeli-hero-text.jpg" title="Monrovia plants outdoor hanging basket ideas geometric himmeli planter brass" /></a></div>
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<li>Medium Gauge Picture <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00HZHV5BO/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00HZHV5BO&linkCode=as2&tag=365desig0b-20&linkId=183ac7cccd70024c0c526aa26d521b95" target="_blank">Hanging Wire</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B071RHKYYV/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B071RHKYYV&linkCode=as2&tag=365desig0b-20&linkId=1ba6e73022379f2cd20197e8067f5e04" target="_blank">Metal</a> or Hard PVC <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B071RHKYYV/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B071RHKYYV&linkCode=as2&tag=365desig0b-20&linkId=1ba6e73022379f2cd20197e8067f5e04" target="_blank">Tube</a></li>
<li>Saw or Pipe<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01AYUVCX4/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B01AYUVCX4&linkCode=as2&tag=365desig0b-20&linkId=f2e5c42ec47467e09fbb68208368fd33" target="_blank"> cutter</a> <i>(if using metal)</i></li>
<li>Shallow plastic bowl</li>
<li>Gold Spray Paint<i> (and sealer if needed)</i></li>
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<b style="color: #674ea7; font-size: x-large;">STEP ONE</b><br />
Cut your plastic or metal pipe into (4) 17" pieces and (8) 11" pieces. Depending on the size of your bowl you might want to scale the measurements up or down a few inches. Lay out 2 of the 17" pieces and 2 of the 11" pieces to form a diamond shape. Leave about a foot extra wire coming out of the long ends of the 17" tubes.<br />
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<b style="color: #674ea7; font-size: x-large;">STEP TWO</b><br />
Thread your wire through the tubes all of the way around the diamond shape. Create two identical shapes.<br />
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<b style="color: #674ea7; font-size: x-large;">STEP THREE</b><br />
Feed the wire through an 11" tube and attach to both sides of one of the diamond shapes. Leave about 4 feet of wire coming through the end of one tube (you'll need to feed it through the additional 3 tubes in the next steps.)<br />
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<b style="color: #674ea7; font-size: x-large;">STEP FOUR</b><br />
Feed another piece of 11" tube onto the wire and attach opposite end to the side of the second diamond shape.<br />
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<b style="color: #674ea7; font-size: x-large;">STEP FIVE</b><br />
Attach another piece of 11" tube through the diamond shape as you did in step 3.<br />
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<b style="color: #674ea7; font-size: x-large;">STEP SIX</b><br />
Add final piece of 11" tube to end - keeping in line with the others. Attach end of tube to opposite side of first diamond shape and twist to secure.<br />
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<b style="color: #674ea7; font-size: x-large;">STEP SEVEN</b><br />
Secure top and bottom ends of himmeli together with wire. Form a loop or hook with the excess wire coming out tops of the 17" tubes.<br />
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<b style="color: #674ea7; font-size: x-large;">STEP EIGHT</b><br />
Spray paint in your choice of color. I wanted a tradition golden brass look so I used metallic gold by Design Masters.<br />
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<b style="color: #674ea7; font-size: x-large;">STEP NINE</b><br />
Drill holes in the bottom of your bowl for drainage. Drill holes in sides of the bowl to attach onto himmeli. Use extra wire to secure bowl in place.<br />
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Now it's time to plant! Monrovia is my absolute favorite go-to brand when I'm looking for the best quality plants. When you spend so much time creating the perfect planter you want the absolute healthiest, most vigorous plants to show it off. I choose this awesome new hybrid called a SuperCal or <a href="https://ooh.li/117e3ae" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Petchoa</a><i> (pet-KOH-uh.)</i><span style="background-color: white; color: #545454; font-family: "roboto" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small; text-align: left;"> </span>It's a cross between a petunia and calibrachoa and it's amazing. This hybrid has the large showy flowers of a petunia while having exceptional disease resistance, improved heat tolerance and cleaner foliage of a calibrachoa<span style="background-color: white; color: #514942; font-family: "lato" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: left;">. </span>And best of all, it requires no deadheading. Yup, you just sit back and watch it bloom and bloom and bloom! I purchased my plants right at my local Lowe's store. You can also buy this or any of the other amazing plants right at <a href="https://ooh.li/117e3ae" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Monrovia's</a> website.</div>
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Also, make sure to check out our post on repurposed <a href="http://www.365designs.com/2017/04/adding-pop-of-spring-color-with.html" target="_blank">tomato cages</a>...<br />
see <a href="http://www.365designs.com/2017/04/adding-pop-of-spring-color-with.html" target="_blank">how we made</a> these awesome wire hanging basket stands!<br />
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What are your favorite plants for hanging baskets?<br />
I'd love for you to share in the comment section below.<br />
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Visit <a href="https://ooh.li/5e92b68" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Monrovia's website</a> for more information on how you can choose<br />
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Dean Ludingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13114015575030599967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130922030268838259.post-92100168231861817812018-05-07T12:37:00.000-04:002018-05-08T22:20:42.903-04:00Meat made from plants? See how Impossible Foods is changing the meat industry <div style="text-align: justify;">
So this happened...</div>
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Last September I stopped eating meat. It was something I've always wanted to do but was completely afraid of how it would change my life. I mean let's face it, we base our lives on food. We plan out when we eat, create detailed schedules on what we're going to buy for the week and even plan our social time around it. But still, I was determined to make a change and totally ready for a meatless, plant-based lifestyle. And, as the saying goes, <i>There is no better time than now</i>. Besides, what could it hurt to try? And so I did.<br />
I ate no meat whatsoever besides the occasional fish or shrimp. Did I miss it? Was there anything I was craving? Nope, not one bit! I was living in a non-sacrificial meatless utopia of delicious, seemingly endless variety, of vegetarian meals. There was literally nothing I was missing, nothing I felt deprived of, until.....summer began to roll around. </div>
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It seems like in my neighborhood anyone who is anyone owns a grill and, after six long months of indoor living, can't wait to fire it up. No one in my development can resist the lure of the outdoors once the temperatures begin to jump into the 80°'s. The smell of neighboorhood barbeques, blazing with flame grilled patties destined for hamburger greatness, made me totally second-guess my vegetarian ways. But, I was determined not to give in and return to my prior life as a carnivore. There had to be an alternative and I was going to find it if it was the last thing I did. I didn't know how but I was going to stop at nothing until I found a way to re-create the delicious one of a kind taste of flame-grilled beef. Then, just like that, something caught my attention, a message in my inbox.</div>
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The email was from a company on behalf of Impossible Foods. It was an opportunity to sample an innovative new food product that utilized a revolutionary plant-based meat. Talk about kismet! I couldn't wait to try it. And you're not going to believe what I have to say...</div>
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To say I was impressed is an understatement. I was completely blow away by the fact that this wasn't actually beef. It looked like beef, smelled like beef and had all the characteristics of beef- including a pinkish center. The Impossible Slider from White Castle definitely lived up to the hype. The plant based meat had such a similar taste and texture to beef that I almost felt guilty eating it. I had to remind myself that this burger was indeed meat free. </div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xAhy6Wx4YIw/WvJT7hiGtiI/AAAAAAAAI64/e9dCmEduZmsBti7rvP4dDC3YI4UydnbTgCLcBGAs/s1600/01933f01993f00e430876bab3b1ea1b247312e8f9c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Impossible Foods plant based meat Impossible Slider from White Castle" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xAhy6Wx4YIw/WvJT7hiGtiI/AAAAAAAAI64/e9dCmEduZmsBti7rvP4dDC3YI4UydnbTgCLcBGAs/s1600/01933f01993f00e430876bab3b1ea1b247312e8f9c.jpg" title="Impossible Foods plant based meat Impossible Slider from White Castle" /></a></div>
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Here are a few amazing facts from Impossible Foods. Check out the complete FAQ section <a href="https://www.impossiblefoods.com/faq/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here.</a> </div>
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WHAT ARE THE INGREDIENTS OF THE IMPOSSIBLE BURGER?</div>
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The Impossible Burger is made from simple ingredients found in nature, including wheat protein, coconut oil, potato protein, and heme. Never heard of heme? Heme is responsible for the characteristic of taste and aroma of meat. It catalyzes all the flavors when meat is cooked. Heme is exceptionally abundant in animal muscle, and it’s a basic building block of life in all organisms, including plants. We discovered how to take heme from plants and produce it using fermentation -- similar to the method that’s been used to make Belgian beer for nearly a thousand years. Adding heme to the Impossible Burger makes it a carnivore’s delight.</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/QB-90-LEPZ4/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/QB-90-LEPZ4?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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WHAT IS IMPOSSIBLE FOODS?</div>
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Founded by Patrick O. Brown, M.D., Ph.D., Impossible Foods is a Silicon Valley startup on a mission to make the global food system more sustainable. The first product is the Impossible Burger.</div>
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We started in 2011 with a simple question: “Why does meat taste like meat?” We spent the next five years researching every aspect of the unique sensory experience of meat, from how it looks raw to how it sizzles and what happens when we sink our teeth into a burger. Then we recreated the precise flavors, textures, aromas, and nutrition of ground beef -- using only plants. By understanding meat at the molecular level, we made a juicy, delicious burger that's better for the planet</div>
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And, if that's not enough, making the Impossible Burger uses 95% less land, 74% less water, and creates 87% less greenhouse gas emissions then traditional beef farming. </div>
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I would love to know what you guys think</div>
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in the comment section below. </div>
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Have you tried the Impossible Burger?</div>
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Let me know if you loved it </div>
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as much as I did. </div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i5etNDbVjWE/WvJUGry06OI/AAAAAAAAI68/4YaGMC-i8PYCpG7XGWQFd67ayPJ0QnkIgCLcBGAs/s1600/ImpossibleFoods_WhiteCastle_VisualBrief_Page_10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1092" data-original-width="1072" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i5etNDbVjWE/WvJUGry06OI/AAAAAAAAI68/4YaGMC-i8PYCpG7XGWQFd67ayPJ0QnkIgCLcBGAs/s320/ImpossibleFoods_WhiteCastle_VisualBrief_Page_10.jpg" width="314" /></a></div>
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<i> Nothing is more important to me than you, the reader. I aim to be 100% transparent in all of my posts. When I read personal blogs, I always love knowing I'm getting an unbiased, completely authentic story.</i></div>
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<i> For this post I was given the opportunity to sample an Impossible Slider from White Castle. I was not financially compensated in any other way. All of my opinions are solely based on my love and enthusiasm for this company and it's product!</i></div>
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Dean Ludingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13114015575030599967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130922030268838259.post-54646792689768422842018-02-22T13:10:00.000-05:002018-02-22T13:21:54.824-05:00Alphabet Tortillas, Basketball garnishes & Easy cocktails with Bacardi and FruiTea Chillers®<h4>
<i style="font-weight: normal;">This post is intended for an audience of adults age 21 and older. This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and Bacardi. All opinions are mine alone. #SignatureSips #CollectiveBias</i><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/aRUe0o3_Z_bdEV8-zjJjAH72tLRPRh7vAJI7ZntzuNdrYdreTnfEviorX49oG9Pl5nj3Jw1dFUs5ApQimP7FCJ8Gmq-v96S3g7gqDeLK0FVgBTYe9a56F2xv0i-1Qjih76AI2b04" /></h4>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"> My absolute favorite parties to host are the casual ones. There's no stress, the food is simple and the atmosphere is just fun. Since college basketball is beginning I know there is bound to be at least one party I'll be hosting for March basketball games. I tend to keep game day parties as simple as possible. Usually, I'll have a variety of finger foods and mixed drinks available. Many times I'll just pick up a few trays of food from the local catering store and put them out, buffet style. Although I keep it simple I still always to try to add a little bit of creativity to keep it fun. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"> For today's post, I'm going to show you a few fun ideas for game day style parties. We're going to make alphabet tortillas and basketball beverage garnishes. You're gonna love how easy these are to make and how awesome they look with your game day food!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"> Our first stop is <a href="http://cbi.as/a1dk-" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Wendy's</a>. When I'm having a get together at night the last thing I want to think about is lunch so picking up a quick meal is perfect. While you're there, grab a few glasses of their exclusive FruiTea Chillers® to bring home for the party. They make amazing cocktail mixers! Also as everyone knows, <a href="http://cbi.as/a1dk-" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Wendy's</a> has AMAZING chili so grab a few cups of that as well! It will go great with the chips we're going to make. </span></div>
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<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/zu7zLIhdLdIBTx4B2clzYunCJnx-UCnB6tXkOAbnPcxHKIwV94qHGOFGZUAki1xJ7MDO8u_FjyX8zXPJ6pKvG3-rDzVuqSYpOmrGBFGfTprAjnwkpDf27cavhmLyQh9hsyn3Wm2r" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">In the spirit of game day style food, I thought it would be fun to be able to spell out team names, numbers and fun sayings with tortillas chips. I used cookie cutters and raw corn tortillas. They're surprisingly easy to make and go great with chili and cheese dip! I also wanted to create a fun beverage garnish so I went mandarin oranges and a little chocolate drizzle to resemble a basketball</span></div>
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<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/biniWDo7qoJ-VmRvobjuNV4H_y--3blroiyfipij-vf3WIDj03YAqCUqwGDlm-haB8gbL9_0LMfEVkGCWkFdboMcnWtZl4Qxq-tON1zOnq_ohcYnjdbdskCKVe4glFqw4qauycEK" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Coat the tortillas with a light spray of vegetable oil.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/ETeZPi-D65VIlTpeLB_QCB9_GjSAizGMk1g7nMbmzaq-aEUSffuXKqWu9_wwsQPCUCLdgkL1_N8e471pOz9Yx23SwbtuZUfFgDeqCyvJqL9w5PmtJZGb5lTL7yz6IinYFrMdKPX7" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Press out each shape.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/c3Wc0Zucr3HTyOD4_bPWXlaKC15fP-Qq0HO8CikZRPL-oJmDfja87lrWZe145_qabtpohcrYyi0HCj9utObFVgArtOmoykGIrahJNu3lfzKjnvzggm3y07CjXcxw-N_GvqPgw6pL" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Save the leftover pieces of tortilla. You can bake those as well!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/d4q6cqfDxeipQYyOl-DNDgm-zMchX4EFOmnhddjxOnG3z6icGl4WnZ1Dvr5LlA40sepijCL95BSbr-g1amQE7Mwb0PgQMjSk0DwZY9Agi-pzsGAQ8ayHsrXvMHyS_eRA8qRol2vU" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Place in a single layer on a cookie sheet.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/NO_fh_aSaLhgspkx1c8Z6rJ-7Tr2ANK_AFHhsID7ECM-GC64PDiK-nXOHktRbIihNQxSwK2ttvf_V21UBIeqkl1z9j5wUIEc983DetPvoAj0gVz6OPVDGcXI5CNE_ABw8bhp8Aux" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you happen to have a second cookie sheet, place that over the top to keep the letters and numbers flat. This will prevent them from curling while baking.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Bake at 400℉ for 10 minutes. They'll turn golden brown when ready. Be careful not to overbake.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/izMxp_yqBCxbi7B_jeBVN06e_GVCEUINx36e0fGY8_hKEsR-1RxfPjDuHYw50lXW4nUGDHAxxJmrTRYMtK3t03CmEgWoni4nvCzbk3GmfBcZVHRUudu4MheZRt1X9_EiCkMfuzDf" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">For our beverage garnishes were going to create mini basketballs in the spirit of March basketball tournaments. I'm using tiny mandarin oranges. They're just small enough to be the perfect sized garnish for any glass.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/QcrsrsSy5_NXFYLQH1ChUiHgxijoFrx4nno9jaAW_0-f4G2EkUGdp5vzjLsFlMjMbJdPRc1bhS5USl48sBMmXMHH_GVrZ4CUcEuzP8Hf6Yce8lBlPVeKuOYqK-nMkTrR2a7v0ZBU" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Melt semi-sweet chocolate according to the manufacturer's directions. I used a BPA free, microwavable bag to slowly melt the chips. I set my microwave on 30% power and turned it on in 30-second intervals.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/v733nmy-F5UH5u_7UGyM9FVGP3Arq3OUR-M-ubZB8ib4x2DPoG-kTuUCO3_XJFCNscIOqHthND2pBWhxfWhGozP_oCqmIXLXe8-MAA-WjehoJvZkjP00ahy4VXvHzsj9v_AmqpAo" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The secret to melting chocolate in the microwave is: low power and checking often. The chocolate will get hot, while still keeping its shape so judging by appearance can be deceiving. Carefully test the bag and if it's cool enough, massage to help the chips melt. Be very careful that the bag is being microwaved on only 30% power for no longer than 30 seconds. Once the chocolate scorches and burns, there's no going back.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/yecGXhN6tUwNxWiGd-3ysbzt-NKnwvw42k6Yb3K5MF16XskhTKltGoUY3iOwkfPyCHGBTQ2CXMqW1phoaRlbqeXUDz7T233t5HTpGdT-z6JMe4Uz8fRESZsPomPYFnV8L2NLJSpE" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Carefully cut off a VERY tiny corner of the bag.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/gbXhg75no4Cp0kbTCt9JjpcPphJ3Y5E0YNKdzI9hs6HHjRyTGQ49ruxbimK72OMvR_VL5lcsPuZLUUA-W9yLh5eAQAFr5Om-HHE9dtb2E7OXApp4HdH-VK229ZfO0mfNP0O17HdP" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Make sure your oranges are washed with fruit cleaner in hot water then, completely dried. This helps the chocolate to adhere to the peel. (Fruit are often coated in wax prior to shipping to maintain their appearance.) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Drizzle the chocolate in the pattern of a basketball.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/TGVUKqh5ueEDqRlJqfIeAFH-rwmEsHDITh5hrPXfkLlhy1bohobHhf_6CIj13ZBg2j9tvKgP_A6M8qtF2Tm_RDkMaxWyXRkVDChLfy1HxQkjLhc3YK2_lylyaRpLfYtPnvnL6Sq-" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I made sure there was plenty of fresh strawberries, mint, and lemons.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/6vm1xuTrorjBVVBxiL4X5_CO4GjtS0J1S1fB9Pn0imeVvgb1xhO_mVqAvSCwTdRbOBg_3kbJmmIB1LBtRj6oCsDO0V94tM_kAu7V9cupPzQTgGtOYNAaYsIncI7qvlZpEJ85oFmH" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Everyone will love your alphabet tortilla chips. They go perfectly with <a href="https://find.wendys.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Wendy's Chili</a> and cheese dip.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><img alt="handmade alphabet letter and number tortillas " src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/dFp-43k6uJlng5UyHYkFzWhOQd3zYIvCalekKh4i3wqcS93qLZR2H-GrAgrgt39komcRDPdSudIHxh4fxWBYTwEcWU7hnrHv2BWtn33Vv6GBFmvtVcQOXvXHWHUD_1O4m3LHV_Ic" title="alphabet letter shaped tortillas cookie cutters" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Combine 1½ oz. Bacardi Dragonberry with a large Strawberry Passionfruit FruiTea Chiller®</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/VIldejjzbtyUrPpXz4S0HhLtwNRcKhrfuIpqYWk3SaH6RSbX7NY5-GqbbGQRf6OHPyrZUtdLot-A44PPHXQ1WmW31V3lFqLJHFo1Mw4DYFCvtBahMKMU_GyGs6rJ-lQkALnAT0XJ" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Try other flavors and combos. Print out our fun FruiTea Chillers® mixable guide for a few great pairing combinations.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><img alt="Bacardi Wendy's FruiTea chillers drink mixing guide" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Io643Xz1WY2YDK0gc3VGdfqLcgglvR2lJkplnwbR6ufdKKM1NGTLwRifAaDVCaA59rIBmeSXZZxqADLdm3IXd2bAuX99HtYtbNpbRzJBxuEsboaEujqZvmTPWv3UeOmVwYsTR3H5" title="Bacardi Wendy's FruiTea chillers drink mixing guide" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/fGwY7PrmsX_re3tzOveSiIRmZR5Jg8JknnP5JqQOo7DdqpyIqOUK8TCHzUHv2ik4G3HO43ByjiJ2sUHfrKGJy-u7CismSeclZcnJoCQMLB8HfOlmzx99bTdoZLhZpUzYOG2edXzz" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I love how these mandarin orange basketball garnishes turned out. They totally capture the spirit of March basketball tournaments.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><img alt="game day baskeball cocktail garnishes march madness" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/sFwSm5N2VaWgUQMrtHuYCHSg_yj4-KpFv-NvS_3usQlc92wB-5rT4sN6ceKGGEZOSI21l4RMY0e4mWPfGbwqXlTxUoANOfvVg8B7VVg-eSEeFMLeAW8ZcoAf-37Q9yfLfVT_WYSc" title="game day baskeball cocktail garnishes march madness" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">These Bacardi and FruiTea Chillers® cocktails are seriously amazing! I love the way Bacardi Dragonberry tastes with the Strawberry Passionfruit. Stefanie totally loved the drinks! I think Bacardi Dragonberry is her new favorite!! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Thanks for stopping by! </span></div>
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<img alt="Bacardi Wendy's FruiTea chillers drink mixing guide basketball garnishes how to " src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/C93PFyy_S_5AQlFX85-fnCzheME8N6bjyuPBprCO9G8S8i8qWuluoShrhnb3zxOthEBE_lT0v066M3RYjcn0sHJB-To8n6WJMZqw3DvAK7nDXNetdM6G_C1jy48xhRChsQDME3f7" title="Bacardi Wendy's FruiTea chillers drink mixing guide basketball garnishes" /></div>
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Dean Ludingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13114015575030599967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130922030268838259.post-83237778223291549122017-12-18T11:58:00.004-05:002017-12-18T22:05:26.113-05:00Printable Holiday checklist and calendar<h4>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><i>This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, INC. and The Coca-Cola Company, all opinions are mine alone. #ServeWithACoke #CollectiveBias</i></span></h4>
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<span style="text-align: justify;"> How many of you get completely stressed out by the holidays? What is normally the most wonderful time of the year can quickly turn into the most trying time of the year. All of the planning, shopping, organizing, preparing, decorating, baking.....and all within a tiny little </span>25 day<span style="text-align: justify;"> window. It can be a little overwhelming. But I'm here to help with all of that.</span></div>
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Today we're going to do something fun. We're going to take a break from our holiday stress and take a much-needed mini staycation. I'm totally giving you the okay to take the afternoon off because... YOU deserve it! </div>
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"But what about all of the planning and preparation and shopping I still need to get done?" You might ask. </div>
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Don't worry I've got you covered. I have a few things that are totally going to help you get through the holidays nearly stress-free this year. Keep reading and I'll show you how you can tackle the holidays head on and stay cool, calm and collected while doing it.</div>
<a name='more'></a><span style="text-align: justify;"> Our first stop on our mini staycation - afternoon off - break from the holiday stress - is Stop and Shop. They have these amazing little </span><a href="http://cbi.as/8fbna" rel="nofollow" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank">meal combos</a><span style="text-align: justify;"> you can pick up in literally 2 seconds and your good to go for the rest of the day. You can choose from salads to wraps to subs and apple or chips....score! You even get your choice of a 20oz. </span><a href="http://cbi.as/8fbna" rel="nofollow" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank">Coca-Cola</a><span style="text-align: justify;">® product like Sprite® or Coke Zero®. So grab your lunch and let's get started. </span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gLRLfXgA2GY/Wjc0CzilkOI/AAAAAAAAIos/UiGdIKtyXjUPzFiSRFXj0N_KtGT9uv_aQCLcBGAs/s1600/016f516a3d04c4b8c25dc4c14e810a3d54a0502433.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1158" data-original-width="1600" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gLRLfXgA2GY/Wjc0CzilkOI/AAAAAAAAIos/UiGdIKtyXjUPzFiSRFXj0N_KtGT9uv_aQCLcBGAs/s1600/016f516a3d04c4b8c25dc4c14e810a3d54a0502433.jpg" /></a></div>
The first thing we're going to do is print out these calendar and holiday checklist printables I've made for you.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OntqwptgyOc/Wjc0WQ73LuI/AAAAAAAAIpU/zrf0EcikyZcrE4RME0BXP5KujndVquEBwCEwYBhgL/s1600/Christmas%2BHoliday%2BChecklist%2BCalendar%2B365%2BPrintable-1-8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="785" data-original-width="1000" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OntqwptgyOc/Wjc0WQ73LuI/AAAAAAAAIpU/zrf0EcikyZcrE4RME0BXP5KujndVquEBwCEwYBhgL/s1600/Christmas%2BHoliday%2BChecklist%2BCalendar%2B365%2BPrintable-1-8.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="text-align: justify;"> I've included 3 different printables that you can use to prepare for the holidays. All you need to do is right click with your mouse and choose "save as." then pick a destination on your computer. I tend to use my desktop as a catchall for everything I save. You easily can find what you're looking for and then later, you can move the file or image to a different spot. </span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1SlCXCxF1xc/Wjc020hT7DI/AAAAAAAAIpY/jdJI0A_KjxMrZRy-KeNMn7katzAk_ffmwCLcBGAs/s1600/Christmas%2BHoliday%2BHanukkah%2BPrintable%2BChecklist%2BCalendar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="816" data-original-width="1056" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1SlCXCxF1xc/Wjc020hT7DI/AAAAAAAAIpY/jdJI0A_KjxMrZRy-KeNMn7katzAk_ffmwCLcBGAs/s1600/Christmas%2BHoliday%2BHanukkah%2BPrintable%2BChecklist%2BCalendar.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J10PWGJLw9Q/Wjc0Wwxt9bI/AAAAAAAAIpU/stRjEbX2g2M6dWWtB4pycAgRHU5kUOhYwCEwYBhgL/s1600/Holiday%2BChristmas%2BGift%2BPresents%2BChecklist.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1247" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J10PWGJLw9Q/Wjc0Wwxt9bI/AAAAAAAAIpU/stRjEbX2g2M6dWWtB4pycAgRHU5kUOhYwCEwYBhgL/s1600/Holiday%2BChristmas%2BGift%2BPresents%2BChecklist.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">Once you have your file ...normally it will save as a .jpg or .png you can easily click on it to print using your computer's default image software. If you have any questions feel free to hit me up </span>in<span style="text-align: justify;"> my About Page where you'll find my email, and I'll gladly try to help!</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_ruZ3hqyqug/Wjc0V4fRsNI/AAAAAAAAIpU/wXJgI9qpzncWNx8oC4jylqDx_exfG3SSgCEwYBhgL/s1600/Christmas%2BHoliday%2BChecklist%2BCalendar%2B365%2BPrintable-1-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_ruZ3hqyqug/Wjc0V4fRsNI/AAAAAAAAIpU/wXJgI9qpzncWNx8oC4jylqDx_exfG3SSgCEwYBhgL/s1600/Christmas%2BHoliday%2BChecklist%2BCalendar%2B365%2BPrintable-1-6.jpg" /></a></div>
For all of these projects, I used a great online program called <a href="https://www.canva.com/create/checklists/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Canva.</a> You can create just about anything there and best of all....it's totally free!!! Try creating your own printable checklist or calendar. It's super easy and lots of fun. You'll feel like a full-fledged graphic designer in no time.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YtONV5IAu80/Wjc0V4vue_I/AAAAAAAAIpU/WhJRdDWb1O8DaUaRFlQq_9Ut0fzPK-NdACEwYBhgL/s1600/Christmas%2BHoliday%2BChecklist%2BCalendar%2B365%2BPrintable-1-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="894" data-original-width="1000" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YtONV5IAu80/Wjc0V4vue_I/AAAAAAAAIpU/WhJRdDWb1O8DaUaRFlQq_9Ut0fzPK-NdACEwYBhgL/s1600/Christmas%2BHoliday%2BChecklist%2BCalendar%2B365%2BPrintable-1-3.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="text-align: justify;">The first checklist will let you keep track of all of your holiday shopping. You'll be able to keep track of each person and what gifts you want to buy for them. Make sure if you have kids at home to keep this list in a safe place...far away...like at your job or office. Trust me, if it's in the house, your kids will find it!</span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E6QtTFRNuM4/Wjc0WbpW1kI/AAAAAAAAIpU/hXnilTtsf58XuF3k7kj4Hi2J4FPKO-s-gCEwYBhgL/s1600/Christmas%2BHoliday%2BChecklist%2BCalendar%2B365%2BPrintable-1-9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="991" data-original-width="1000" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E6QtTFRNuM4/Wjc0WbpW1kI/AAAAAAAAIpU/hXnilTtsf58XuF3k7kj4Hi2J4FPKO-s-gCEwYBhgL/s1600/Christmas%2BHoliday%2BChecklist%2BCalendar%2B365%2BPrintable-1-9.jpg" /></a></div>
I've also included a handy calendar for quick reference to all of December's fun little perks. Hopefully, you'll even be inspired to try something new and take advantage of the season.<br />
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Thanks for stopping by and please be sure to follow and subscribe </div>
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Make sure to share your tips for keeping the holidays stress free </div>
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in the comment section below.</div>
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Dean Ludingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13114015575030599967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130922030268838259.post-82369766802263122142017-11-22T10:56:00.002-05:002020-12-13T16:33:38.925-05:00Creative Gift giving: Clothespin Wreath for Instant Lottery Tickets, family photos or holiday cards<div style="text-align: justify;">
Every year around this time I go into full stress mode. It seems as if no matter how much I prepare, the holidays always just seem to sneak up on me. It also seems like I have a family that has everything. Trying to find gifts for them feels like it's getting exponentially harder each year. I rack my brain trying to come up with something more creative than my go-to gift card. No matter how much I wrap it, in the most elaborate way possible, the truth is it's still just a gift card in a box. Don't get me wrong, I know that they really appreciate it and usually even requested it but gift cards just don't seem thoughtful or personal. They don't seem like I put in any effort. It can be a little challenging coming up with a way that's creative and unique to present it. </div>
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This year I think I came up with a solution. I'm taking the gift cards out of the box. I'm taking them out of the box, adding a few goodies, and mixing them up with .... well you'll see! And, not only is this gift fun and unique but it's also totally functional. Don't you love that!? A dual-purpose gift. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"> Keep reading and I'll show you exactly what I'm talking about and what you need to make this holiday gift that everyone is sure to love. </div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QbxRDXbGpVI/WhOr9dzprgI/AAAAAAAAIno/-8TNN-s0dng-uQ1V9jq2xDHckMrur7wcACLcBGAs/s1600/Clothespin-wreath-lottery-christmas-holiday-cards-GOLD-text.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1128" data-original-width="800" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QbxRDXbGpVI/WhOr9dzprgI/AAAAAAAAIno/-8TNN-s0dng-uQ1V9jq2xDHckMrur7wcACLcBGAs/s1600/Clothespin-wreath-lottery-christmas-holiday-cards-GOLD-text.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a name='more'></a>Everyone always seems to love NJ Lottery Holiday Instant Games. They're fun to play and even more fun to win! I thought I'd take it to the next level and create a fun way to give them as a gift mixed in with my traditional gift card. I also think this wreath frame makes the perfect photo or card holder after they've played all of their tickets! Let's get started.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jben0FF1Cxo/WhNCynwWDhI/AAAAAAAAIm8/Sm7KN2Urft0tZNr8TjXmAHhsRY8VdqKoQCLcBGAs/s1600/111you%2527ll-need.png" style="clear: left; display: inline; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="152" data-original-width="1600" height="60" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jben0FF1Cxo/WhNCynwWDhI/AAAAAAAAIm8/Sm7KN2Urft0tZNr8TjXmAHhsRY8VdqKoQCLcBGAs/s640/111you%2527ll-need.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<li>Wire wreath form</li>
<li>Mini clothespins</li>
<li>Ribbon and decorative fillers</li>
<li>Glue gun</li>
<li>Holiday Instant Tickets</li><li>Gift Cards <i>optional*</i></li>
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Use acrylic craft paint to create seasonally inspired colored clothespins! I used a base coat and a glitter top coat for an extra fancy effect!</div>
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Allow to dry and apply a second coat if needed.</div>
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Use the glue gun to secure clothespins around the wreath form. I decided to use both the inside <i>and</i> top wires to create a layered look.</div>
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Use the inside cardboard spool from your ribbon to give your bow and more dimensional look when hanging.</div>
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Give as a gift or even enjoy for yourself. After you've played all of the tickets the wreath makes an excellent Christmas card holder. It's a great way to show off all of the beautiful cards you've received from family and friends. You could even use the wreath frame to display family photos for the holidays!</div>
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This festive holiday wreath makes a great gift for those family and friends who always<span style="text-align: center;"> seem impossible to buy for. It's also a fun way to get creative with gift giving. I'm pretty sure anyone will love receiving this... I mean, who doesn't want to win the lottery!!?</span></div>
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What would you do if you won </div>
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with NJ Holiday Instant Tickets or<br />
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<!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.state.nj.us%2Fnj%2Fimages%2Flibrary%2Fhome%2FLottery_LogoTM.png&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/proxy/iHpec9U5xHyGI1O1XgTdm9SnKsCYvzj42t4wtQUiqY6C_7uVs0czhcTUsnPpX899Oc8HDsWGFPPq1nSAYEeKcUvalObu3tHHaxVHcSv0qBfWUA0t" -->Dean Ludingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13114015575030599967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130922030268838259.post-73558121791292946082017-11-07T21:01:00.000-05:002017-11-12T11:58:11.801-05:00DIY kitchen window makeover with faux frosted glass etching<div>
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Hosting for Thanksgiving is one of my favorite parts of the season. I love having family and friends over for endless amounts of food and great conversation. It gives us all time to catch up on the happenings of the past year - and I think for all of us it's been quite an eventful year!<br />
Before the season officially gets underway I like to start getting ready for any gatherings I have planned for the coming months. I always do a thorough<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><a href="http://cbi.as/a0teq" rel="nofollow" style="text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">cleaning</span></a><span style="color: black; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></span>and home refresher around this time of year. I go through each room of the house and make sure there aren't any of the usual signs of neglect: those bizarre spiderwebs that magically appear and the mysterious blobs of dust hiding behind and under furniture. Sure at Halloween, you can claim they're intentional but afterwards.....time to clean!</div>
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It seems like no matter how comfy and cozy I make the rest of my house everyone always ends up congregating in the kitchen. At first, I thought people just liked my kitchen... then I realized this happens to everyone. The kitchen just seems to be a great place for people to gather and talk. So I've decided, this year, to start that much overdue project. I'm going to finally update my kitchen window. Believe me, it was due. Talk about outdated. As you'll see from the photos, the craft store Gallery Glass plastic cling flowers are no longer the hot window dressing they once used to be. So, I decided to go with a more modern updated etched glass look with a subtle geometrical design. However, I'm not actually using the strong chemical etching cream to create this look but rather a faux etched glass medium! Keep reading and I'll show you how to create a great, sophisticated look for a lot less money and a lot less mess than traditional etched windows.<br />
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<a name='more'></a> For this tutorial, it's important to make sure your windows are super clean. We're essentially going to be painting on the faux etching medium so the product really needs to adhere properly. I chose to go with<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://cbi.as/a0tlo" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Windex® Original Glass Cleaner.</span></a><span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></span>I mean its name says it all...original. It's been used since forever and why take a chance on my project no turning out the way I want it. So this time I skipped the vinegar and went with its patented ingredient, Ammonia-D® that thoroughly removes any and all old residue. I found all the cleaning supplies I needed right at <span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://cbi.as/a0tey" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Home Depot</span></a><span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. </span></span>They have a huge aisle with all of the cleaning supplies you'll ever need.</div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I needed to remove all of the old Gallery Glass plastic from my windows so I used a razor glass scraper to carefully peel them off.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: inherit; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Use your Windex® Original Glass Cleaner to make sure absolutely all residue is removed from the glass. This is super important for the medium to work properly.</span></div>
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Use the detailing painter's tape to square off a border for the window.<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
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Make sure to clean off all of the excess grease and grime in the corners and crevices. Scrubbing<a href="http://cbi.as/a0tmq" rel="nofollow" style="text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Bubbles®</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span>Fantastik® product works great. The antibacterial solution cuts the grease and grime and dissolves it on contact while disinfecting the whole area....and who doesn't love a clean kitchen!</div>
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I divided my windows into three separate sections.<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
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Tape off a diamond pattern in the center. measuring equally from top to bottom.<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
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I cut away the top and bottom of the tape and created additional triangles emanating from the center of each larger one on top and bottom.<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
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Make sure you "roll" the frost etching medium gently instead of shaking, to avoid air bubbles.<br />
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I find that a light coating of etching effect medium using the foam roller provides the best results.<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
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Wait a few hours for the medium to set and pull off the detailing tape. Although, I completely let mine sit overnight before removing the tape and had no problems. Finish your windows with modern Roman shades or a decorative plant. Clean and shine the cabinets with a little<a href="http://cbi.as/a0tmd" rel="nofollow" style="text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Pledge®</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span>Orange Clean and you're good to go!</div>
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Thanks for stopping by!!!<br />
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product promotions on display<br />
in<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><a href="http://cbi.as/a0tey" rel="nofollow" style="font-family: inherit; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Home Depot</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span>stores 11/1/17 through 1/31/18!</div>
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Dean Ludingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13114015575030599967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130922030268838259.post-31685080592233513142017-10-02T11:35:00.001-04:002017-12-03T17:42:11.385-05:00Korean Fusion Mason Jar Snack with Spicy Asian Slaw<i>Today's post has been compensated by Collective Bias, INC. and The Coca-Cola Company. All opinions are 100% mine and mine alone. #SnackHonestly #CollectiveBias</i><br />
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It seems like everywhere you look a new "fusion" restaurant is popping up around the corner. It's undeniably the biggest trend in dining. I think in my neighborhood alone there are no less than a dozen restaurants. There are the usual Asian fusion and Tex-Mex fusion - which I love. Then there are the more exotic ones like Japanese-American, Irish-Eritrean <i>(still not sure what that is)</i>, North African fusion... I even saw vegan sushi fusion - don't know how that works but it sounds interesting! </div>
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As confusing and intriguing as they all might be, most are actually quite good. I have to admit I'm a sucker for a good Asian fusion restaurant. It's almost become a weekend ritual. Saturday night?... Asian fusion. It's something I always look forward to.<br />
So I thought if these flavors are great for dinner, why not turn them into a great snack for the work week. It was surprisingly easy and fun to come up with a great "fusion" <a href="https://www.blogger.com/"><span id="goog_981510192"></span>snack<span id="goog_981510193"></span></a>. Using a few prep-free ingredients and an easy Asian slaw that is super simple, I put together an amazing mason jar snack that is not only better for you but really easy to make. Keep reading and I'll show you exactly how to prepare this make-ahead <a href="http://cbi.as/a0nbd" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">snack</a>.<br />
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For this easy Korean fusion mason jar make-ahead snack, you can find all of the ingredients right at Walmart. I picked up a few bottles of Honest Tea® while I was there to go with it. I love the organic green honey tea. It's just a tad sweet and is perfect for a lighter snack. I used Lorissa’s Kitchen Korean Barbeque Beef snacks. They are seriously so delicious! What makes me love them even more is the fact that they use responsibly raised proteins, like 100% grass-fed beef, and responsibly raised pork. No MSG, preservatives or growth hormones. That's something I can definitely feel better about! I love being able to make smart choices throughout the day for my snacks. It just makes me feel better and keeps me motivated to maintain a better lifestyle during the work week. </div>
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To start we need to create our dressing. It's so easy. You simply combine all of the ingredients and whisk together until they're well blended.<br />
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Fill your mason jar halfway with the coleslaw mix then pour on dressing. Let it marinate overnight for the best flavor.<br />
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You can fill the mason jar with everything you need for the next day's snack. The dressing will marinate the coleslaw mix at the bottom of the jar and the other ingredients will stay high and dry, a definite time saver - you'll thank me in the morning!</div>
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<tr><td valign="top" width="618"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Korean Fusion Mason Jar Snack </span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>with Spicy Asian Slaw</b></span><br />
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<a class="printfriendly" href="https://www.printfriendly.com/" onclick="window.print();return false;" style="clear: right; color: #6d9f00; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" title="Printer Friendly and PDF"><img alt="Print Friendly and PDF; align= left;" src="https://cdn.printfriendly.com/buttons/printfriendly-button-lg.png" style="border: none; box-shadow: none; width: 100px;" /></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Recipe by: Dean Ludington </i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Prep Time: 25 minutes </i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Cook Time: 0 minutes</i></span><br />
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<i><br /></i><b>Dressing Ingredients:</b><br />
1 package coleslaw mix or<br />
freshly shredded cabbage<br />
2 1/2 Tbsp water<br />
2 Tbsp rice wine vinegar<br />
2 Tbsp soy sauce<br />
1 Tbsp sesame oil<br />
1 tsp raw sugar<br />
1 tsp red pepper flakes<br />
pinch sea salt + pepper<br />
sesame seeds <i>(opt. for garnish)</i><br />
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<b>Mason jar ingredients </b><br />
Rainbow carrots, julienned<br />
Havarti cheese, cubed<br />
Lorissa's Korean BBQ beef<br />
Whole grain tortilla chips<br />
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<b>Instructions:</b><br />
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<li>Combine all ingredients for dressing non-reactive bowl and whisk until well blended. </li>
<li>Fill mason jar 1/2 way with coleslaw mix. Add approximately 2 tablespoons dressing to lightly cover the mix. </li>
<li>Add julienned carrots, Havarti cheese, and Korean BBQ beef to the top of the shredded coleslaw mix. Allow dressing to marinate into cabbage and carrots overnight. </li>
<li>Top jar with tortilla chips just a few hours prior to use. This will keep them crispy. </li>
<li>Empty mason jar on a plate and enjoy. </li>
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The next day your snack is ready to go. If you want to add your tortilla chips to the jar do that in the morning or, just bring separately. Grab your Honest Tea and you have the perfect snack that is not only delicious but one you'll definitely feel better about having. </div>
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The Havarti cheese is a great compliment to the Korean BBQ flavor. The spicy Asian inspired slaw is great on its own or used to make fun bite-size snacks.<br />
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Thanks for stopping by. </div>
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I'd love if you'd share your own favorite "fusion" recipes in the comment section below. </div>
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Are there any snacks that help you keep and maintain a better lifestyle </div>
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throughout the busy work week? </div>
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Share below, I'd love to hear!<br />
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Oh and don't forget to see how you can receive<br />
$1 <a href="http://cbi.as/a0nbd" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">cash back</a> with the Ibotta app<br />
when you purchase both<br />
Lorissa's Kitchen™ Premium Protein Snacks and </div>
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Honest Tea® at <a href="http://cbi.as/a0nbd" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Walmart</a>. </div>
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Dean Ludingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13114015575030599967noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130922030268838259.post-69674412432351925502017-09-07T23:38:00.002-04:002017-09-07T23:38:23.063-04:00Customize all of your School Supplies with Marble<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Going back to school was always one of my favorite times of the year. I know that for some of my friends it meant the end of summer fun and the beginning of long nights of homework but for me, it was amazing. I eagerly looked forward to the beginning of a brand new year. It was a time for new classmates, new teachers and best of all, a chance to go <a href="https://targetmademedoit.com/marble-design-on-school-supplies/">shopping</a> for new school clothes and school supplies.</div>
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How many of you remember Trapper Keepers? I was completely obsessed with those in High School. I literally had one in every color and design. I loved being able to collect all of the wild and crazy styles. Have a plain boring notebook just wouldn’t do. I would even create my own designs with sharpies, gel pens even paint. …basically anything I could get my hands on. The more I could <a href="https://targetmademedoit.com/marble-design-on-school-supplies/">customize</a> and personalize the better.</div>
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I've partnered with Target's awesome affiliate TargetMadeMeDo to create this simple back-to-school tutorial, we’re going to make our own, custom, marbleized school supplies. Not only is it super easy but it’s so much fun. You just need a few simple supplies to get started. Read the full step by step tutorial right on <a href="https://targetmademedoit.com/marble-design-on-school-supplies/">TargetMadeMeDoIt.com</a>.</div>
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Dean Ludingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13114015575030599967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130922030268838259.post-45302969152794481932017-09-01T11:59:00.001-04:002017-10-11T21:18:22.849-04:00Ginger Citrus Sprite® Vinaigrette and WIN tickets to NYC Wine & Food Festival<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7ZPMMB60VCs/WajYKtTCpzI/AAAAAAAAId8/nSRY9ev623cT2Djo1q4pPhbzc5XpCRoEACLcBGAs/s1600/ginger-citrus-sprite-vinaigrette.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1098" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7ZPMMB60VCs/WajYKtTCpzI/AAAAAAAAId8/nSRY9ev623cT2Djo1q4pPhbzc5XpCRoEACLcBGAs/s1600/ginger-citrus-sprite-vinaigrette.jpg" /></a><br />
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I love being able to create fun and delicious recipes using unconventional ingredients. I often find that combining simple flavors from ordinary items you have around the house ends up being unexpectedly delicious. It's also fun being able to experiment with combinations of foods that might seem out of the ordinary but work really well together. In a<a href="http://www.365designs.com/2015/03/chocolate-grilled-cheese-with-m-crispy.html" target="_blank"> recipe</a> I created last year I combined the sweet and savory flavors of Parmigiano Reggiano and chocolate in a <a href="http://www.365designs.com/2015/03/chocolate-grilled-cheese-with-m-crispy.html" target="_blank">grilled cheese</a> sandwich. You wouldn't believe how well the flavors blended together!</div>
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For today's post, I wanted to create a light and refreshing vinaigrette that would work great for both fish and chicken when served with a salad as the main course. A while back, I remember seeing a great recipe using <a href="http://cbi.as/a0d16" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Coca-Cola™</a> as one of its main ingredients in a balsamic salad dressing. It actually looked really delicious! I thought, why not try the same with its lemon-lime counter part, Sprite®. And so I did. This basic combination of flavors using these simple ingredients created a super salad dressing that is not only easy to make but really delicious. Keep reading and I'll show you exactly what you'll need for this fun and creative recipe. AND, see what we're giving away that will take you to the center of the cooking universe...hint: It's a trip, it's to NYC and there will be tons of food!</div>
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If you are a foodie like me you are going to love this sweepstake And when I say love I mean LOVE! Ok so hold on to your spatulas....ShopRite® is giving away 6 tickets to The Food Network & Cooking Channel New York City Wine and Food Festival presented by Coca-Cola!!! And, all you need to do is text to win! You literally just Text the keyword SHOPRITE to the short code 26739. Or you can just <a href="http://cbi.as/a0d0w" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">enter here.</a> You can't get any easier than that. Best of all the winner will have the opportunity to take center stage with celebrity chef Scott Conant at the festival. I know!!!</div>
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To start out we're going to make a simple reduction using Sprite. Making a reduction is super easy. You just simmer until reduced. The amount you reduce it by depends on the liquid and the final result you want to achieve. In this case, you want to end up with approximately 1/3 of the liquid you began with. Once it cools it will thicken to a corn syrup like consistency. </div>
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Use freshly grated ginger or ground ginger. If using ground ginger use approximately 1/4 of the full amount.<br />
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Ready Pac salad mixes from Shoprite are so convenient. They come ready to use and are perfect for creating an entree salad.<br />
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<tr><td valign="top" width="618"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Ginger Citrus Sprite</span><span style="font-size: large;">™</span><span style="font-size: x-large;"> Vinaigrette</span></b></span><br />
<script>var pfHeaderImgUrl = '';var pfHeaderTagline = '';var pfdisableClickToDel = 0;var pfHideImages = 0;var pfImageDisplayStyle = 'left';var pfDisablePDF = 0;var pfDisableEmail = 0;var pfDisablePrint = 0;var pfCustomCSS = '';var pfBtVersion='1';(function(){var js,pf;pf=document.createElement('script');pf.type='text/javascript';pf.src='//cdn.printfriendly.com/printfriendly.js';document.getElementsByTagName('head')[0].appendChild(pf)})();</script><br />
<a class="printfriendly" href="https://www.printfriendly.com/" onclick="window.print();return false;" style="clear: right; color: #6d9f00; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-decoration: none;" title="Printer Friendly and PDF"><img alt="Print Friendly and PDF; align= left;" src="//cdn.printfriendly.com/buttons/printfriendly-button-lg.png" style="border: none; box-shadow: none; width: 100px;" /></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Recipe by: Dean Ludington </span></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Prep Time: 20 minutes </span></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Cook Time 10 minutes</span></i></span><br />
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<i><br /></i><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
1/2 C Extra Virgin Olive Oil<br />
1/2 C White Wine Vinegar<br />
1 1/2 C Sprite plus 1/4 C reserved<br />
2 Tbsp Fresh Orange Juice<br />
2 tsp Freshly grated ginger<br />
1 tsp Orange Zest<br />
1/8 tsp Sea Salt<br />
1/8 tsp White Pepper<br />
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<b>Instructions:</b><br />
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<li>Simmer 1 1/2 C Sprite over low heat, stirring occasionally, until 1/4 C remains. Set aside to cool and thicken.</li>
<li>Add orange zest and ginger to reduction.</li>
<li>Combine reserved 1/4 C Sprite soda and remaining ingredients. Whisk until thoroughly blended. Allow approximately 1 hour, or overnight, for flavors to combine. </li>
<li>Use as a dressing or marinate.</li>
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I think this dressing is great on a salad with salmon, tuna or chicken. I even use it as a marinade. Just seal the chicken or fish in a zip lock bag with 1/2 C of the dressing<br />
and let marinate overnight. </div>
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How easy is that!?<br />
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Feel free to share your own creative recipes in the comment section below!</div>
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Thanks for stopping by and make sure to enter for your trip to</div>
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<em style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; font-family: "open sans", helvetica, arial, sans-serif; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-style: normal;"><a href="http://cbi.as/a0d0w" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">NYC's Wine and Food Festival.</a></span></em></div>
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Oh and don't forget to take advantage of Shoprite's current promotion:</div>
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<i>Add a 16oz Coca-Cola or 20oz </i>FUZE Fusions®<i> for .50 when you buy a 11.25-11.75 Ready Pac Multi-Serve Salad in a single transaction with your <a href="http://cbi.as/a0d16" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Shoprite</a> PRICE PLUS® Club card between 8/27/17 - 12/31/17</i><br />
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You can find the Ready Pac Multi Serve salads in Shoprite near the bagged mixes towards the club size section in the produce department and also by the deli (where they have prepared foods).<br />
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And of course, you know where to find the Coca-Cola and Sprite!!! There's literally an entire aisle dedicated all of the Coke products.<br />
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You can <a href="http://cbi.as/a0d0w" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">enter</a> once per day now through 11:59 p.m. ET, September 16, 2017.<br />
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Maybe I'll see you there.</div>
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Dean Ludingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13114015575030599967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130922030268838259.post-9688418905653422522017-08-10T11:51:00.002-04:002020-12-12T13:52:04.495-05:00Farmhouse Style Summer Beverage Bar with DIY Watermelon Keg and Easy Agua Fresca Recipe<div>
Thanks to Collective Bias, INC. and The Coca-Cola Company for sponsoring today's post, all opinions are 100% mine alone. <br />
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I want to kick off the last few weeks of summer by giving you guys a fast and easy tutorial. We'll be making a fun and festive farmhouse style beverage bar. The best part, and definite conversation piece, is the watermelon keg. It's an absolute stand out! What's even better is the quick and delicious agua fresca we're going to fill it with. It's the perfect way to celebrate the last month of summer before the kids go back to school and we head into fall. </div>
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I really love summer. I spend as much time as possible outside enjoying the beautiful weather. So for this tutorial, we're going to do something craaaazy! We're going to go <a href="http://cbi.as/9gf8h" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">shopping</a> for all of our ingredients while sitting outside in the fresh air and sunshine! Yup, you heard me right. We're going to get everything we need for our beverage bar and watermelon keg shopping from the comfort of our own home. Follow along I'll show you exactly how.</div>
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<a name='more'></a> Summer always seems to be one of the busiest times of the year for me. I always feel that while everyone else is relaxing by a pool - in the beautiful sunshine - iced tea in hand, I'm trying to get a million things accomplished by the end of the day. I know some of you can totally relate. With the kids going back to school soon, there's even more to get done. For this next tutorial, we're going to make life super simple. We are going to have all of our ingredients delivered! Trust me it is just as easy and simple as it sounds. I actually used the <a href="http://cbi.as/9gf8h" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Peapod</a> app on my phone which I LOVE!!! I think my favorite feature is the ability to scan a product you already have and instantly re-order it! You can also use <a href="http://cbi.as/9gf8h" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Peapod</a> on your PC, tablet or iPad. How easy is that?!<br />
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You can even pick the time and day you want everything delivered....as soon as the next day!<br />
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<b><span style="color: magenta;">STEP ONE</span></b><br />
Cut off top of watermelon. Use a spaghetti spoon to hollow it out removing 1/3 of the pulp. Cube or use a melon baller and place in a bowl for a delicious garnish.<br />
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<b><span style="color: magenta;">STEP TWO</span></b><br />
Use a handheld immersion blender to liquefy the pulp inside the watermelon. Pour into a large bowl to completely empty the watermelon.<br />
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<b><span style="color: magenta;">STEP THREE</span></b><br />
Use a corer to punch a hole in the watermelon. Attach tap reaching inside the watermelon to secure nut onto threading.<br />
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<b><br /></b> <b><span style="color: magenta;">STEP FOUR</span></b><br />
Strain. Pour the juice back into the watermelon<br />
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<b><span style="color: magenta;">STEP FIVE</span></b><br />
Add four cans Minute Maid Lemonade and four cups ice. Add the juice of one freshly squeezed lemon.<br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: x-large;"><b>Watermelon Lemonade Agua Fresca</b></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b> </b></span></span> <br />
<script>var pfHeaderImgUrl = '';var pfHeaderTagline = '';var pfdisableClickToDel = 1;var pfHideImages = 0;var pfImageDisplayStyle = 'right';var pfDisablePDF = 0;var pfDisableEmail = 0;var pfDisablePrint = 0;var pfCustomCSS = 'https://docs.google.com/document/d/10vmkyVccdXO2oubVmRS-Imh7kaliBSK45GCUGXVD0oo/edit?usp=sharing';var pfBtVersion='1';(function(){var js, pf;pf = document.createElement('script');pf.type = 'text/javascript';if('https:' == document.location.protocol){js='https://pf-cdn.printfriendly.com/ssl/main.js'}else{js='http://cdn.printfriendly.com/printfriendly.js'}pf.src=js;document.getElementsByTagName('head')[0].appendChild(pf)})();</script> <a class="color:=" href="http://www.printfriendly.com/" onclick="window.print();return false;" printfriendly="" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; width: 125px;" text-decoration:none="" title="Printer Friendly and PDF"><img -webkit-box-shadow:="" alt="Print Friendly and PDF" border:="" box-shadow:="" class="nopin" none="" src="http://cdn.printfriendly.com/pf-button.gif" style="width: 125px;" /></a><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Recipe by: Dean Ludington </span></i></span><br />
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Prep Time: 20 minutes </span></i></span><br />
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Total Time: 25 minutes</span></i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span></span> <br />
<i><br /></i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Ingredients: </span> <br />
1 Lg Watermelon<br />
1 Lemon, juiced<br />
4 12oz cans Minute Maid Lemonade<br />
4 C Ice<br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Instructions: </span><br />
<ol>
<li style="text-align: left;">Empty 1/3 watermelon and save pulp for later. <i></i></li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Use an immersion blender to liquefy remaining pulp inside watermelon.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Empty watermelon juice into a bowl and strain pulp. Pour back into watermelon. </li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Add 4 12oz. cans Minute Maid Lemonade and the juice of 1 freshly squeezed lemon. Add 4 cups ice. Add lemon or mint garnish and enjoy!</li>
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I stocked my beverage bar with extra Minute Maid Lemonade and plenty of FUZE Lemon Tea. I also included fresh fruit including strawberries and orange slices. Don't forget to make sure you have plenty of ice!<br />
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Add a basket of fresh lemons.<br />
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Put out a few varieties of mint including peppermint, spearmint, and even chocolate mint!<br />
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Don't forget straws and stirrers.<br />
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How much fun was that!? </div>
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Creating an amazing and impressive summer beverage bar is super easy and</div>
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using the <a href="http://cbi.as/9gf8h" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Peapod</a> app you can have everything delivered right to your doorstep. </div>
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Dean Ludingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13114015575030599967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130922030268838259.post-27742436978244001532017-05-21T23:55:00.000-04:002017-05-21T23:55:29.446-04:00Air Plant Beach Dune Nautical Terrarium in Apothecary or Mason Jar<div style="text-align: justify;">
One of the best things about living in New Jersey is the beaches. There is no better place to spend the afternoon. Where I live there are two types of beaches. There are the ones with all of the attractions: boardwalks, games, rides and countless places to eat. Then, there are the off-the-beaten-path beaches- the ones that are serene, natural, and untouched. The common traits to almost all of the beaches are the large protective sand dunes. These dunes are essential in protecting the beaches from erosion. While serving their purpose, they're also one of the more interesting and beautiful parts of the beach. </div>
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I wanted to create a terrarium that would bring a little bit of the "beach" into my home. This next project does just that. I used air plants<i> </i>to mimic the look of natural beach grasses.<i> </i> I also added sea glass, a few seashells and even a tiny message in a bottle! Keep reading to see how I made this fun and decorative beach dune terrarium.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wLlYyzQ5JtI/Van2dMJXnBI/AAAAAAAAE9o/T77nzJSg2hc/s1600/new%2Bnautical%2Bterrarium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="nautical coastal terrarium air plants tillandsia beach apothecary or mason jar" border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wLlYyzQ5JtI/Van2dMJXnBI/AAAAAAAAE9o/T77nzJSg2hc/s1600/new%2Bnautical%2Bterrarium.jpg" title="nautical coastal beach terrarium with air plants in apothecary or mason jar" /></a></div>
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<ul>
<li>Glass Apothecary Jar</li>
<li>Coarse Decorative Sand</li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0054G6CL6/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=211189&creative=373489&creativeASIN=B0054G6CL6&link_code=as3&tag=365desig0b-20&linkId=DXZZT2JNJFYIVBGU" target="_blank">Miniature Wood Fence</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00TGP1HS4/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=211189&creative=373489&creativeASIN=B00TGP1HS4&link_code=as3&tag=365desig0b-20&linkId=5F4F56MXMVAERLMO" target="_blank">Tim Holtz mini glass vials</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.365designs.com/2014/08/modern-nautical-decor-you-can-easily.html" target="_blank">Homemade</a> 'aged' wood stain</li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ICPZ75I/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00ICPZ75I&linkCode=as2&tag=365desig0b-20&linkId=J3TYXPQA2RMEROQB" target="_blank">Air Plants </a></li>
<li>Decorative sea glass, netting, shells etc.</li>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RcM8B-o2mR0/VaoLBejx8nI/AAAAAAAAE_A/KFfmWr4TV0Y/s1600/begin%2Bby.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RcM8B-o2mR0/VaoLBejx8nI/AAAAAAAAE_A/KFfmWr4TV0Y/s1600/begin%2Bby.jpg" /></a></div>
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Start by staining or painting your fence. I used a homemade stain that is one of my favorites for creating an aged look on wood. You can find out how to make <a href="http://www.365designs.com/2014/08/modern-nautical-decor-you-can-easily.html" target="_blank">it here</a>, from one of my previous posts. It's also probably a good choice for using in a terrarium since it's totally non toxic.</div>
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I followed that up by quickly rubbing light gray paint over the wood and then wiping it off. This gives a slight hint of extra color the stain doesn't provide. You basically are recreating a gray patina on the wood and rust on the wire.</div>
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After the stain and paint dry add your sand, shells and air plants.<br />
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This next part is so cool. You're going to make a mini message in a bottle. I love these mini corked vials by Tim Holtz and Ranger Ink. Simply roll up a small piece of scrap paper and put it in the bottle. You may even write a secret message ;)<br />
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Finally you want to add all of the little extras. I wrap jute around the top to secure the fish netting. I also added a few pieces of jewelry charms.<br />
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Dean Ludingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13114015575030599967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130922030268838259.post-53415052728426346752017-04-06T00:01:00.000-04:002017-04-17T20:56:26.773-04:00Adding a pop of spring color with Monrovia plants and easy DIY repurposed hanging basket stand<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<span style="text-align: justify;"> Spring is finally here! I always love when the weather starts to get warmer so I can spend more time outside. </span><span style="text-align: justify;">I literally shift my entire workspace outdoors onto my deck as soon as the temps get above sixty. There's something about working outside that inspires you to be more productive. Whether it's the fresh air or the bright sunlight it definitely makes you feel good.</span></div>
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To make my deck feel even more welcoming I like to add a few plants. Since the nighttime temps are a little to low for my usual annuals, I headed on over to the <a href="https://ooh.li/30681c4" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Monrovia</a> website to find out which plants would be great for early spring. Once I picked out the perfect plants for adding that much-needed pop of color, I needed to find something to put them in. </div>
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I really love the light airy look of coconut lined hanging baskets, however, there really isn't anywhere on my deck to hang one. I decided to create my own stand that would be great for use with one of the MANY old wire baskets I've kept from last year. (I think I may inadvertently be a container and hanging basket hoarder!!) Keep reading for this super simple DIY that turns last years gardening leftovers into this year's new,on-trend hanging basket stand.</div>
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<i style="text-align: left;">Thanks to Monrovia for sponsoring today's post. The content and opinions expressed here are 100% my own.</i></div>
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<li>Tomato cages</li>
<li>Wire hanging baskets</li>
<li>Heavy duty wire cutters</li>
<li>Spray Paint and Sealer*<i>optional</i></li>
<li>Wire bristle brush</li>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wgumSNutVVo/WORZwmqMsFI/AAAAAAAAIOE/9vzt9hMPT-8eG1qA69nlj3wy0t1622VMgCLcB/s1600/222begin-by.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wgumSNutVVo/WORZwmqMsFI/AAAAAAAAIOE/9vzt9hMPT-8eG1qA69nlj3wy0t1622VMgCLcB/s1600/222begin-by.png" /></a> <b><span style="color: #134f5c;"><b><span style="color: #134f5c;"><br /></span></b></span></b> <b><span style="color: #134f5c;">STEP ONE:</span></b><br />
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If your yard looks like mine at the end of winter, you know exactly where I'm coming from. While you're straightening up your messy, leaf ridden, moss-grown yard, gather a few leftover tomato cages. </div>
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<b><span style="color: #134f5c;">STEP TWO:</span></b><br />
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Take the chains off of your hanging basket. Invert the tomato cage and place the basket, depending on its size, on either the first or second ring. You're going to have to use your wire cutters to trim the basket to its appropriate height. </div>
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span> <b><span style="color: #134f5c;">STEP THREE:</span></b><br />
Cut the long wire ends to about 2 inches in length.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #134f5c;">STEP FOUR:</span></b><br />
Bend the wire around the top of hanging basket to secure. Trim off excess wire if needed.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #134f5c;">STEP FIVE:</span></b><br />
Use a wire bristle brush to remove any rust or dirt.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #134f5c;">STEP SIX:</span></b><br />
After your wire is cleaned, spray in long even strokes. I really love the genuine copper color of this paint by <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000I1AXVW/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B000I1AXVW&linkCode=as2&tag=365desig0b-20&linkId=e94c8eb9d2de346094bdbb98f6ee470d" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Rust-Oleum</a>. It's a great choice if you want the look of real copper wire. Once the paint dries apply an <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000VKY3I4/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B000VKY3I4&linkCode=as2&tag=365desig0b-20&linkId=a8d9503db23e336cfe8f2f9e03964859" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">outdoor sealer</a>, if needed.<br />
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When you head over to the <a href="https://ooh.li/30681c4" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Monrovia</a> website you can purchase the perfect plants for spring based the climate and zone where you live. I love how Monrovia plants stand apart from the others. Their select varieties allow me to create unique custom planters, hanging basket and flower gardens that really make an impact!</div>
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I like planning the way my basket will look before planting. I usually go with the old adage "less is more" and avoid overcrowding them. The plants will fill out over the course of the season and grow much better.<br />
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It's important to choose vigorous, healthy plants like <a href="https://ooh.li/30681c4" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Monrovia</a> to give you an advantage when it comes to plant success. This is especially true when it comes to planting perennials. Monrovia provides great info with all of their plants as well as helpful tips when you sign up for their free <a href="https://ooh.li/1b0c245" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">newsletter.</a> </div>
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Do you have any tips for choosing plants </div>
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to add that much-needed pop of spring color?</div>
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We'd love to hear your comments!</div>
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Make sure to check out Monrovia's</div>
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and try creating a </div>
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low-water, low-maintenance garden </div>
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or learn about their </div>
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NEW reblooming <span style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://ooh.li/b18cf12" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Blue Enchantress® Hydrangea</a></span>!!!<br />
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<i>Photo: Monrovia <a href="https://ooh.li/b18cf12" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Blue Enchantress® Hydrangea</a></i></div>
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Dean Ludingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13114015575030599967noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130922030268838259.post-38100232021518650712017-03-06T04:22:00.000-05:002017-04-17T20:56:50.959-04:00Spring Cleaning Made Easy...The Spring Cleaning Challenge<div style="text-align: justify;">
I love spring. I looooove spring. I love spring the way that Oprah loves bread! ...the way that squirrels love nuts... the way that Forest loves Jenny, the way that peas love carrots!! Well, you get the idea. It's absolutely my favorite time of year. Everything is just so new and fresh. It's the perfect opportunity improve on yourself and to update your surroundings.<br />
When spring comes around I can't help but think of spring cleaning. They basically go hand in hand. I know that many people view spring cleaning as a chore but, it really doesn't have to be. Just think of it as a way to give new life to the space you live in. It's such a great way to start fresh and move in a positive direction towards the upcoming months.</div>
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I think a lot of people dread spring clean because they take it on alone. Taking good care of your house or apartment is no easy task. It can be a ton of work and take up a lot of your precious free time. Well, I've got a great way to take on the task, not by yourself, but as a family. It's this year's Spring Cleaning challenge and I've made it fun and easy for the whole family to get involved. Keep reading and I'll show you exactly how.</div>
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<i style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="background-color: white; color: #212121; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 15px;">This post is sponsored by The Libman Company, but my love for their cleaning options is entirely my own</span></i><br />
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<span style="color: purple; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">1.</span> Cut card along dotted lines. Each family member gets one card with various spring cleaning chores divided between adults and children.<br />
<b><span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b> <span style="color: purple; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">2.</span> Earn points by completing each task and the points assigned to it. Keep track of points earned based on each chore completed.<br />
<b><span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b> <span style="color: purple; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">3.</span> After one week, tally up points earned by each family member. The one with the most points at the end of the week <a href="https://ooh.li/3f04f01" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">wins!</a><br />
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To print this file, right-click and choose "save as." Then save the .png file to your computer. <i>hint: Remember where you save it. </i>Open the file using your computer's default image viewer. In your printer settings, choose to print full size. Be sure to take advantage of Libman's <a href="https://ooh.li/62780f5" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">$3 off coupon</a> to help with your spring cleaning. I love using the Wonder Mop particularly because I can use it on my kitchen tiles, laminate, and hardwood floors. The best part is I can simply toss the dirty mop head right into the washer! Anytime I can make my cleaning more efficient it's a definite WIN! Oh and did I mention it's great for anyone who has pets!</div>
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Dean Ludingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13114015575030599967noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130922030268838259.post-62241525029542691832017-01-29T08:00:00.000-05:002017-08-05T20:59:29.394-04:00Trends that will Continue through 2017<div style="text-align: justify;">
Hey, friends! Can you believe how fast the year is going by! OK, I know we're only a month in but doesn't it seem like so much has happened already. So far this year is off to a great start. I can already feel the unlimited potential and possibilities 2017 has in store. Let's continue the good vibes by looking at some of this year's newest ideas and a few of last year's hottest trends. I've compiled a list of my favorite DIY, craft, design and home decor trends. I'll let you decide which are here to stay and which have worn out their welcome.</div>
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<b><span style="color: #45818e;"> </span></b><b><span style="color: #45818e;">1. RAW ORGANIC TEXTURES</span></b><br />
This is such a broad category that encompasses so many ideas. Bare, unpainted, unstained wood, metal, cork, concrete and terracotta to name a few. These designs are everywhere.<br />
You can always count on Mandi Gubler from <a href="http://vintagerevivals.com/2017/01/diy-wooden-dowel-leather-chair" target="_blank">Vintage Revivals</a> to bring the latest and greatest ideas to the table. This sleek and simple chair is what the raw movement is all about...the raw-volution!!! It's all about bare, stripped down materials that bring your focus to the design. Notice the awesomeness of the natural tone raw, rustic leather cushions that pairing well with the simplicity of the modern wood chair.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MgFlOnwhwHQ/WYZpyA-DyRI/AAAAAAAAIbE/6SCf-spDTqwqsLQvVEU2x9yYiSLW2w37ACLcBGAs/s1600/Aspyn-Ovard-House-Makeover-Vintage-Revivals-50-684x1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="684" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MgFlOnwhwHQ/WYZpyA-DyRI/AAAAAAAAIbE/6SCf-spDTqwqsLQvVEU2x9yYiSLW2w37ACLcBGAs/s1600/Aspyn-Ovard-House-Makeover-Vintage-Revivals-50-684x1024.jpg" /></a></div>
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How great is this table from <span style="color: #0000ee; text-decoration: underline;">Seakettle?</span> You can't get any more raw that this. What makes it even better is that it's a DIY piece. That's right, it was made from actual log and $6 set of Ikea chair legs. Awesome!</div>
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<a href="http://seakettle.com/?p=1285" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img src="http://cdn.decoist.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Cross-section-side-table-DIY.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #45818e;">2. MARBLE AND MARBLEIZED DESIGNS</span></b><br />
What more can you say about marble? It's everywhere. You can find marbling in just about every craft, DIY, home accent and kitchen accessory. This design can be in simple grayscale or brilliant colors, what's not to love! If you want the real thing, you can't get any better than Carrara marble from Italy. It's some of the best quality you can find.<br />
If you're looking to make your own marble design, try this technique with polymer clay from <a href="http://thesarahjohnson.com/2015/02/19/how-to-marble-coasters/" target="_blank">Sara Johnson</a><br />
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<a href="http://thesarahjohnson.com/2015/02/19/how-to-marble-coasters/" target="_blank"><img alt="IMG_1932" src="http://thesarahjohnson.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/IMG_1932-e1424385297775.jpg" /></a><br />
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<img src="http://thesarahjohnson.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/IMG_1956-e1424385306758.jpg" /><br />
<a href="http://brepurposed.porch.com/2016/03/22/sponsored-faux-marble-wood-serving-tray/" target="_blank">Bre Purposed</a> has the most amazing faux marble tutorial. You've gotta see it...<br />
<a href="http://brepurposed.porch.com/2016/03/22/sponsored-faux-marble-wood-serving-tray/" target="_blank"><img alt="http://brepurposed.porch.com/2016/03/22/sponsored-faux-marble-wood-serving-tray/" src="https://i0.wp.com/brepurposed.porch.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/faux_marble_and_wood_serving_tray_8.png?resize=600%2C900" /></a><br />
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<b style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #45818e;">3. CANING AND WOVEN PATTERNS</span></b><br />
This is one of my favorite textures and patterns for home decor and crafts. The design translates well for both two dimensional (wallpaper) and physical material (chair caning.) Woven patterns are a great way to add visual impact without being overwhelming. This classic chair from <a href="http://theglitterguide.com/2016/03/01/step-inside-monica-wangs-bright-bohemian-home/" target="_blank">The Glitter Guide</a> uses a slightly modernized woven material.<br />
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<a href="http://theglitterguide.com/2016/03/01/step-inside-monica-wangs-bright-bohemian-home/" target="_blank"><img alt="Moroccan pouf" src="http://theglitterguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Monica-Wang-Photography-41.jpg" /></a><br />
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<i>Rocking Chairs: <a href="http://www.poppytalk.com/2016/07/ikea-sneak-peek-15-new-things-coming-in.html" target="_blank">PoppyTalk</a></i><br />
<a href="http://www.poppytalk.com/2016/07/ikea-sneak-peek-15-new-things-coming-in.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EIfRiEyJlgA/V5ZtrfEjOoI/AAAAAAABf0o/S-CPeD9j5ro3Xdtz9qzZOqIusTeYhyRQACLcB/s1600/ikea2017-gronadal-rocking-chair-poppytalk2.jpg" /></a><br />
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<b style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #45818e;">4. WATERCOLOR AND BRUSH STROKES </span></b><br />
My utter love and enthusiasm for watercolor and brush stroke designs makes me want to put down everything and start painting random brush strokes everywhere. I love the bright bold watercolors and carefree brush strokes. <a href="http://www.akailochiclife.com/2016/04/craft-it-brushstroke-plates.html" target="_blank">A Kailo Chic Life</a> created these amazing and functional plates and serving trays<br />
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<a href="http://www.akailochiclife.com/2016/04/craft-it-brushstroke-plates.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6aXzeV1T7So/VxeRBFRkZ3I/AAAAAAAAIDw/SngGBDEUbCMquHQFAikJUApluXXLKmJtQCLcB/s640/brushstroke%2Bplates-4.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/238377926/pierre-frey-arty-designer-pillow-cover-1?ref=market" target="_blank">Stuck On Hue</a> <i>on etsy</i><br />
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/238377926/pierre-frey-arty-designer-pillow-cover-1?ref=market" target="_blank"><img src="https://img0.etsystatic.com/107/0/7929851/il_570xN.975856492_27m1.jpg" /></a><br />
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<b style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #45818e;">5. GALAXY AND CONSTELLATION </span></b><br />
Galaxy art is everywhere. Dotted constellation patterns are just as popular. They've made their way into a wide array of designs from childrens wall art to high end jewelry. Both are a fun way to make unique crafts. How great are these eggs from <a href="http://www.dreamalittlebigger.com/post/galaxy-easter-eggs.html" target="_blank">Dream A Little Bigger</a>?!<br />
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<a href="http://www.dreamalittlebigger.com/post/galaxy-easter-eggs.html" target="_blank"><img alt="Make some galaxy Easter eggs that are out of this world!" src="http://www.dreamalittlebigger.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/005-galaxy-easter-eggs-dreamalittlebigger.jpg?x32341" /></a><br />
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<b style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #45818e;">6. BRONZE, GOLD AND MIXED METALS</span></b><br />
If you're looking to update your existing decor you can find tons of information from <a href="http://www.heidipiron.com/Kitchens/Traditional/4" target="_blank">Heidi Piron</a>. There is literally an endless supply of information on this site. I love the muted gold fixtures, they're a refreshing change from brushed nickel.<br />
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<a href="http://www.heidipiron.com/Kitchens/Traditional/4" target="_blank"><img alt="http://www.heidipiron.com/Kitchens/Traditional/4" src="http://www.gallerieb.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/9824c5b80831150f26787bd646b12d12-e1431247353955.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://makinglemonadeblog.com/5-tips-for-using-metallics-at-home/" target="_blank">Making Lemonade</a> had a million great ideas for mixing and matching metals.<br />
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<a href="http://makinglemonadeblog.com/5-tips-for-using-metallics-at-home/" target="_blank"><img src="http://cf.makinglemonadeblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/metallics-copper-and-bronze-home-decor.jpg" /></a><br />
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<b style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #45818e;">6. HOBNAIL GLASS</span></b><br />
Hobnail glass has definitely made it's comeback. You can find tons of Fenton hobnail glass from eBay or etsy. If you're more more of a DIY person, you can even make your own. You'll love the great tutorial over at <a href="http://ciburbanity.com/heard-hobnail/" target="_blank">Ciburbanit</a>y.<br />
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<a href="http://ciburbanity.com/heard-hobnail/" target="_blank"><img alt="hobnail trio" src="http://ciburbanity.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/DSC_0084.jpg" /></a><br />
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<b style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #45818e;">7. MIXED PATTERNS</span></b><br />
When it comes to matching, throw everything you know out the window. Anything goes with patterns and arranging. This great quilt from <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/tracy-porter-for-poetic-wanderlust-florabella-quilt/4028383?origin=related-4028383-0-1-PP_OOS-Data_Lab_Recommendo_V2-also_viewed_realtime&recs_type=related&recs_productId=4028383&recs_categoryId=0&recs_productOrder=1&recs_placementId=PP_OOS&recs_source=Data_Lab_Recommendo_V2&recs_strategy=also_viewed_realtime&recs_referringPageType=item_page&cm_mmc=Linkshare-_-partner-_-10-_-1&siteId=TnL5HPStwNw-69rVNF5L9ZHOtb6SuPv6jw" target="_blank">Nordstrom</a> is the epitome of mis-matched design.<br />
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<a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/tracy-porter-for-poetic-wanderlust-florabella-quilt/4028383?origin=related-4028383-0-1-PP_OOS-Data_Lab_Recommendo_V2-also_viewed_realtime&recs_type=related&recs_productId=4028383&recs_categoryId=0&recs_productOrder=1&recs_placementId=PP_OOS&recs_source=Data_Lab_Recommendo_V2&recs_strategy=also_viewed_realtime&recs_referringPageType=item_page&cm_mmc=Linkshare-_-partner-_-10-_-1&siteId=TnL5HPStwNw-69rVNF5L9ZHOtb6SuPv6jw" target="_blank"><img src="http://edc.h-cdn.co/assets/16/37/fashion-week-mixed-patterns-home.jpg" /></a><br />
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The days of matching furniture are gone. For the newest trends combine sofas, chairs and tables that don't necessarily match, but share a common theme. These are a few example of how you can go from matching to magnificent!! This post from <a href="http://www.prettypurpledoor.com/how-to-mix-and-match-your-furniture/" target="_blank">Pretty Purple Door</a> says it all. If it feels right, just go for it. </div>
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<img alt="mix and match furniture like a boss pinterest image" src="http://www.prettypurpledoor.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/mix-and-match-furniture-pin.jpg" /><br />
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<a href="http://www.homedit.com/how-to-mix-and-match-furniture-pieces/" target="_blank">Homedit</a> has a ton of great ideas. If you're still unsure about mixing and matching, you might want to look at the entire gallery to get a feel for what works.<br />
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<a href="http://www.homedit.com/how-to-mix-and-match-furniture-pieces/" target="_blank"><img src="http://cdn.homedit.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/elegant-furniture-match-themee.jpg" /></a><br />
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What new ideas do you think will be the latest and greatest trend in the coming year? </div>
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Thanks for stopping by!</div>
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You guys are gonna love what we have in store for next week's DIY post with Target. </div>
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You can find all of the awesomeness on TargetMadeMeDoIt.com. </div>
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<br />Dean Ludingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13114015575030599967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130922030268838259.post-72984078748874883052017-01-11T01:00:00.000-05:002017-01-13T12:58:22.223-05:00The surprisingly simple way to use recycled wood pallets to mount and hang a fern as wall decor. A great way to add a modern touch to your home is by updating your wall decor. Something as simple as adding a unique accessory to your wall can make a big difference in the look and feel of a room. You can try something simple such as changing frames or adding new photos. However if you're feeling more adventurous you can attempt something a little bit more outside of the box. I've found an idea that is exactly that.<br />
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I created a great way to duplicate the look of the super trendy wall mounted Staghorn Fern and without all of the hassle. I absolutely love the look of those ferns hanging on walls but, they just don't agree with the dry air in my house. They love a super humid, moist, rainforest-like environment and my home is drier than dry... I'm talkin' Sahara desert dry. Yup, it's pretty dry! Well I've found the perfect solution. Keep reading and I'll show you exactly what I came up with....</div>
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<a href="https://ooh.li/2955d7c" target="_blank"><img alt="DIY wall mounted pallet fern" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4N9zAi7Ad00/V1qKf3J8raI/AAAAAAAAHmA/Rcfa6rGLQ5I7hh-sS2mRgh8wTQngyX85QCLcB/s1600/fern-mounted-wood-pallet-1%2Btext.jpg" title="" /></a></div>
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The plant I chose to use for this project is called a Kangaroo Paw Fern or Microsorum diversifolium. This type of plant is an epiphyte. Epiphytes are plants that live harmlessly upon another plant and do not require soil to survive and grow. Orchids and Air Plants are both examples of plants that grow without the need for soil. These plants get all of their moisture and nutritional needs from the air and debris around them.</div>
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What I love about the Kangaroo Fern is it's ability to thrive in dry air. Most ferns including the popular Staghorn fern, need very humid environments. This particular fern will thrive in medium to bright indoor light and the amount of humidity found in an average home.</div>
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If you plan on keeping your mounted fern outdoors there are a couple of facts to take into consideration. Make sure you keep the fern in a semi-shady to shady outdoor area. Once the weather starts to drop below 60F you'll want to bring the fern indoors. If you live in a warmer climate you can keep it outside year long. Although native of Australia, the Kangaroo Fern will grow most places in the US outdoors in a USDA Hardiness zone 9 and above. Make sure it gets a heavy watering once a week but doesn't remain wet. If you're going to transplant it use a good orchid potting mix.</div>
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<ul>
<li>Wood pallets</li>
<li>Kangaroo Paw or other epiphytic fern <i>(in plastic hanging basket)</i></li>
<li><a href="https://ooh.li/2955d7c" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Drill/Driver</a></li>
<li><a href="https://ooh.li/2955d7c" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Circular Saw</a></li>
<li>Sheet Moss</li>
<li>1" Multi-purpose Wood Screws</li>
<li>Screw eyes and picture wire</li>
<li>PVA Glue (White Elmer's glue)</li>
</ul>
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There are several ways to disassemble a wood pallet. You might want to check out a <a href="http://www.365designs.com/2016/03/mini-pallet-planter-stand.html" target="_blank">previous post</a> for a <a href="http://www.365designs.com/2016/03/mini-pallet-planter-stand.html" target="_blank">video</a> and <a href="http://www.365designs.com/2016/03/mini-pallet-planter-stand.html" target="_blank">instructions</a> before going at it full force. These suckers are a lot stronger than they look. Whether you use a reciprocating saw or hammer and crow bar, make sure to give yourself adequate time to take apart the pallets. The wood can easily crack split in half if you're not careful.<br />
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You want three pieces 14½ inches in length for the front and an additional two boards 12½ inches wide to attach to the back.<br />
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To achieve a rustic look you'll want to keep the metal nails intact. If you used a crowbar to disassemble the pallet you'll be left with the nails poking through the boards. You can easily bend them back into the wood with your hammer. If you use a reciprocating saw you'll want to file away any sharp pieces of metal.<br />
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Screw in eye hooks and attach picture wire to the back side of frame mount.<br />
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Remove the plastic hooks and wires from the hanging basket.<br />
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Dilute your white PVA glue with water to achieve a fluid brush-able consistency. Apply to the hanging basket in order to adhere the sheet moss. Use picture wire, if needed, to wrap the moss onto the basket.<br />
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While I was working on this project I started noticing my drill wasn't holding a charge as well as it used to. Anyone who's had an older drill know what that's like. It can get a little frustrating. Well, I was in the middle of this project when I was totally rescued by <a href="https://ooh.li/2955d7c" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">BLACK+DECKER</a>. I swear they read my mind. They sent me this awesome new 20V Lithium Drill to try out and it couldn't come at a better time. This was exactly what I needed; a super light weight, powerful drill. that was the perfect size for crafts and small DIY projects. I couldn't be happier. This new drill is quickly becoming my new best friend. It's even more powerful than my old drill and it's literally have the size and weight!So with my new drill in hand I was ready to finish up the project.</div>
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Before directly screwing on the basket you're going to want to pre-drill holes. Use a drill bit slightly smaller than the screws you're using. A quick way to determine the size of the drill bit to use is to hold the bit in front of the screw. You should only be able to see the threads and not the shaft.<br />
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You want to pre-drill the holes in order to ensure the wood doesn't split and the basket gets a tight fit. Next, carefully position the boards behind the fern basket. Screw right into the basket from behind the mount. I found that using two screws held the basket firmly in place.<br />
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After you have your basket secured you're all set to hang it up. Since the ferns are usually sold growing in a soilless medium of lightweight peat moss, your piece should be fairly light. Use standard picture frame hooks to mount it on the wall.<br />
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<a href="http://www.linqia.com/"></a>Dean Ludingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13114015575030599967noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130922030268838259.post-29272561517009111162016-12-19T02:24:00.000-05:002017-10-11T21:13:41.223-04:00His and Hers Tassel and Birch Wood Keychains plus Armor All Car Care Gift Pack<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_VDS-0xsZ5Q/WFdgNqxPMwI/AAAAAAAAIEI/kE50NU1lG3sovcaTW91xlNIGkWUi6V5HgCLcB/s1600/his-and-hers-tassel-and-birch-wood-key-chain-armor-all.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_VDS-0xsZ5Q/WFdgNqxPMwI/AAAAAAAAIEI/kE50NU1lG3sovcaTW91xlNIGkWUi6V5HgCLcB/s1600/his-and-hers-tassel-and-birch-wood-key-chain-armor-all.jpg" /></a><br />
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I have a quick question for you - that I find really interesting... How many of you guys name your cars? Be honest, you can totally admit it! I just learned that 25% of people actually have a name for their car. Can you believe that? I have never heard of this! What do you guys name them?...Bob, Frank, Olivia? I think this is awesome! How did I never know about this. It seems like people really really love their cars.</div>
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Now that I know this, I wonder If I'm missing out. What would my car's name be? Is it a boy or a girl car? So many questions and with the holidays right around the corner, I think I'm going to have to postpone my car naming ceremony until after the new year. </div>
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With my new knowledge of this fun car fact, I have a great gift idea for those people you always have trouble buying for. It's the perfect gift for anyone in your family who owns, loves, names, or just drives a car. I've partnered up with Armor All to bring you this fun and easy tutorial. The Armor All Car Care <a href="https://goo.gl/2EqbB9" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Gift Pack</a> really makes the perfect gift all by itself but we're going to take it a step further and add a nice personal touch. We're going to be making his and hers colorful tassel and birch slice keychains. Keep reading for all the details on this fun and easy tutorial.</div>
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<ul>
<li>Armor All Car Care <a href="https://goo.gl/2EqbB9" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Gift Pack</a></li>
<li>1½ Inch Wood Slices</li>
<li>Acrylic Paint</li>
<li>Key Rings and Snap Hooks</li>
<li>Stencils</li>
<li><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/128298123/leather-6-pieces-4x6-divine-line-top?ref=shop_home_active_5" target="_blank">Assorted Leather</a> 4x6 Inch Pieces </li>
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Start making your tassel by cutting each 4x6 strip of <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/128298123/leather-6-pieces-4x6-divine-line-top?ref=shop_home_active_5" target="_blank">leather</a> in half lengthwise.<br />
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Next, take a pencil and draw a guide line approximately 1/4" from the top.<br />
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Using sharp scissors cut 1/8" strips up to your guide point.<br />
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Use your other half of the leather to cut a 1/4" strip which you'll use to attach the Snap hooks and key rings.<br />
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Hot glue guns work really well for gluing leather. For a super strong bond use the high setting and press firmly for 15 seconds.<br />
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Attach the 1/4 inch piece to the end of your fringed leather strip. Next feed through the key hook or ring.<br />
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Form a loop and glue to secure.<br />
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Tightly roll the fringed strip applying extra glue in the center.<br />
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Finish off the end with additional glue and hold firmly for 15 seconds to form a tight bond.<br />
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Use a 4mm bit to drill a hole 1/8" from the top of the wood slice.<br />
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I cut these pieces of white cedar from an old branch in my yard. If you buy your wood slices you'll usually find birch for sale online and in craft stores. Birch has white bark and nicely defined rings.<br />
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Finally, paint your branch slices with coordinating colors. I love Martha Stewart Crafts paint. They come in every color imaginable and provide thick coverage.<br />
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I purchased my Armor All Car Care Gift Pack as well as most of my supplies right at Walmart. You can find it in the automotive section. One thing I really love about giving this Armor All Car Care Gift Pack with the personalized keychain is the fact that it really is a gift that everyone will love. Not only does it come in a reusable bucket - and let's face it you can never have too many buckets! - but it also includes a Pro Secrets car care booklet with $13 in additional coupons! One of my absolute favorite products from Armor All they included in this gift pack. It's the Quicksilver wheel and tire cleaner. You spray it on and hose it off. That's it! no steel wool scrubbing...love it!</div>
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Thanks for stopping by and<br />
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be sure to take advantage of the <a href="https://www.coupons.com/coupons/automotive-coupons-890/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">$3 off digital coupon</a> for the<br />
Armor All Car Care Gift Pack</div>
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from Walmart!<br />
Get these while supplies last, they're going quickly!</div>
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I'd love for you to share your own project or<br />
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in the comment section below.</div>
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<span style="font-family: "source sans pro"; font-size: 14.6667px; font-style: italic; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This post is part of a social shopper marketing insight campaign with </span><a href="http://whoispollinate.com/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "source sans pro"; font-size: 14.6667px; font-style: italic; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "source sans pro"; font-size: 14.6667px; font-style: italic; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Pollinate Media Group</span></a><span style="font-family: "source sans pro"; font-size: 14.6667px; font-style: italic; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">® & </span><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "source sans pro"; font-size: 16px; font-style: italic; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="http://armorall.com/" style="text-decoration: none;">Armor All </a></span><span style="font-family: "source sans pro"; font-size: 14.6667px; font-style: italic; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> but all my opinions are my own. #pmedia #ArmorAllGiftPack </span><i><a href="http://my-disclosur.es/OBsstV" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://my-disclosur.es/OBsstV</a></i><br />
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<span style="font-family: "source sans pro"; font-size: 14.6667px; font-style: italic; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>Dean Ludingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13114015575030599967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130922030268838259.post-53017508906699942062016-12-08T14:17:00.000-05:002016-12-09T00:45:29.274-05:00Stress Free Gift Giving NJ Lottery Holiday Instant Games and DIY monogram pillow gift box<div style="text-align: justify;">
Every year during the holidays it seems like my list of friends grows larger and larger. Right around this time, every December, I feel like the most popular person on the planet. I never even realized that I knew so many people!! My list of friends is literally growing exponentially before my eyes. How did I meet so many people this past year without even knowing it!?</div>
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Well, I might be exaggerating just a little bit. My assumed overabundance of friends is most likely this amazing holiday gift giving illusion that seems to happen every year. I think I just really like getting people gifts and I definitely don't want to leave anyone out. How many of you can relate?! Buying gifts for every single person you know can be a bit stressful. But before you run out to by whatever Starbucks, Godiva, Body Shop, gift basket is on display, I have the perfect solution for gift giving this year. I have the absolute best gift to give those co-workers, casual aquintances and people who just seem to have everything. </div>
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I have discovered people absolutely love NJ Lottery Holiday Scratch Offs. I mean what's not to love? The chance at winning it big is wayyy better that another apple scented Body Shop gift set! And, you can literally buy them at any Wawa, 7-11 or any mini-mart that sells NJ Lottery - which means no fighting for a parking space!</div>
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I'm going to show you how you can gift these NJ Lottery Holiday Scratch Offs in a fun and trendy pillow box. And to top it off, we'll decorate with the recipient's monogram to add that extra special personal touch. Let's get started....</div>
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<ul>
<li>Corrugated <a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=1023307&b=656768&m=55703&afftrack=&urllink=https%3A%2F%2Fblitsy%2Ecom%2Fproduct%2F963336%2Fcorrugated%2Dcardboard%2Dsheets%2D12%2Dx%2D12%2D3%2Dpkg%2F963336%253Fquery%3Dcorr%3Fquery%3Dcorr" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Card Stock</a></li>
<li>Martha Stewart <a href="http://www.shareasale.com/m-pr.cfm?merchantID=55703&userID=1023307&productID=660155406" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pillow Gift Box Tool</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.michaels.com/artminds-wood-letter-10.5in/M10279687.html?cm_mmc=Affiliate-_-CJ_Feeds-_-ArtMinds-_-Wood%20Letters%2C%2010.5%22%20by%20ArtMinds&utm_source=CJ_Feeds&utm_medium=Affiliate&utm_campaign=ArtMinds&utm_term=Wood%20Letters%2C%2010.5%22%20by%20ArtMinds" target="_blank">Wood Letters</a></li>
<li>Martha Stewart Crafts Metallic and Glitter Paint</li>
<li>Painter's tape</li>
</ul>
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If you haven't already, you NEED to get this pillow box maker. Not only is this craft tool so much fun but it's amazingly easy. You simply score and cut, it couldn't be any easier.<br />
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In the photo below you can see the basic shape of the pre-folded box.<br />
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You're given various options as to the length and width. The built in guide makes this super easy.<br />
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After you make the appropriate score marks and cuts, fold the left side in and use double sided tape to secure the sides of the box.<br />
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The top and bottom of the box can be simply folded shut. You can use tape to adhere the ends but it's not really needed.<br />
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I love these chunky letters from <a href="http://www.michaels.com/artminds-wood-letter-10.5in/M10279687.html?cm_mmc=Affiliate-_-CJ_Feeds-_-ArtMinds-_-Wood%20Letters%2C%2010.5%22%20by%20ArtMinds&utm_source=CJ_Feeds&utm_medium=Affiliate&utm_campaign=ArtMinds&utm_term=Wood%20Letters%2C%2010.5%22%20by%20ArtMinds" target="_blank">Michaels</a>. They are a great size and nice, clean font. Use painters tape to create an angled line where you want to separate the bare wood from the painted surface.</div>
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I love the look of colored metallics. I think Martha Stewart Crafts has a great line of paints and offer a nice variety. I combined rose chrome paint with pink glitter and sequins in a sort of ombre effect. I also used light golds and yellows together along with silvers and light purples. </div>
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I'd love to see how your pillow gift boxes turned out! Don't forget the <span style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: "roboto condensed" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"> </span>NJ Lottery Holiday Scratch Offs are available in $1, $2, $5 and $10. You can find them in your local mall kiosk or any convenience store that sells NJ Lottery.<br />
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<span style="text-align: center;">Thanks for stopping by and remember</span><span style="text-align: center;"> to try your hand at the Million Dollar Replay! </span><br />
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Thanks to New Jersey Lottery for sponsoring today's fun tutorial. All the opinions stated are 100% my own. All NJ Lottery Scratch off tickets shown in today's post were provided by New Jersey Lottery.<br />
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<br />Dean Ludingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13114015575030599967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130922030268838259.post-13404674688833374032016-12-07T02:50:00.000-05:002017-04-07T14:08:41.264-04:00Easy tips to creating the perfect beverage bar for your holiday entertaining<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><i style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; font-family: "Source Sans Pro", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; text-align: start;">Thanks to Collective Bias, Inc. and The Coca-Cola Company for sponsoring today's post. All opinions are mine alone! </i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "source sans pro" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">#SavorTheMemory</span><i style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; font-family: "Source Sans Pro", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; text-align: start;"> #CollectiveBias</i></span><br />
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My absolute favorite part of the holidays are the great conversations with family and friends. It's the perfect time to catch up and share stories of the past year. Let me tell you, sometimes the stories are the <i>real</i> gift of the holidays! They can get quite colorful if you know what I mean. </div>
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It always seems like everyone congregates in the kitchen for the juicy gossip. That's always where the great conversation really happens. Throw in some finger food and a beverage bar and you've got the start to something good!</div>
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I'm going to show you how you can create a really amazing fully stocked Coca-Cola beverage bar. Many times the simplest of details can get overlooked so I'll provide a complete checklist along with a few great simple tutorials. We'll make cranberry, mint-infused ice cubes and candied lemon/orange peel Christmas tree stirrers. Keep reading for the easy and fun details!<br />
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I found everything I needed right at <a href="http://cbi.as/6g5rm" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">ACME</a>. Feel free to print out the free printable I've provided below to take along with you. While you're shopping keep in mind that Coca-Cola and Shutterfly.com have a great holiday promo they're running right now. When you buy 4 participating Coca-Cola products you'll receive a $20 off at Shutterfly.com via Catalina register print out. It will provide you with your own code to <a href="http://cbi.as/6hmkb" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">redeem online</a>! You'll definitely want to take advantage of that offer once you've realized all of the great pictures you've taken this holiday season.</div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;"> I love the way these candied lemon and orange peel Christmas trees came out. They were super easy to make and taste delicous -think all natural sour patch kids! I'll also show you a trick to making these cranberry-mint ice cubes look even better.</span><br />
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<li>Lemons, Limes, Oranges & Cranberries</li>
<li>Mint Leaves</li>
<li>Superfine Sugar</li>
<li>Vanilla Extract</li>
<li>Bamboo Skewers</li>
<li>Square Ice cube trays</li>
<li>Distilled Water</li>
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Step 1. Begin by slicing the lemons and oranges into 1/4" strips.<br />
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Step 2. Boil the fruit strips for about 20 minutes. Drain. Repeat. This helps remove the bitterness from the peel.<br />
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Step 3. Add equal parts sugar and water and bring to a simmer. Reduce to about half. Do this in two seperate sauce pans, one for the oranges and lemons, and a seprate one for the cranberries.<br />
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Step 4. You can add the oranges and lemons right to the simmering sugar water. </div>
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<b>Important: </b>For the cranberries, you want to remove the pan from the heat for a few minutes then, gradually stir in. If you add the berries too soon the heat will make them pop. </div>
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Step 5. Set the syrup covered fruit to cool on a cookie rack or waxy freezer paper. After the cranberries have cooled you can start making the ice cubes. The trick to suspending them half way into the cube is to freeze them twice. First fill the tray half way with water (Using distilled water and gradual freezing makes for a more clear, transparent cube.) Add the cranberries and mint. They will float to the top. Freeze about 1 1/2 hours. Once set, add water to top off the cubes. Now your cranberries will appear "suspended" in the cubes. Pretty cool right! </div>
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Step 6. Skewer your candied peels throught the center. Carefully cut sides on an angle to resemble tiny trees. Add a cranberry to the top.<br />
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Step 7. Sprinkle superfine sugar to completely coat peels. If needed, drizzle extra syrup on top so the sugar adheres better.<br />
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Now you're all ready to set up your beverage bar.<br />
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Add any left over candied fruit to a glass jar and top with remaining syrup, or use prepared corn syrup. Add about a teaspoon of vanilla extract. You've just created your own homemade vanilla syrup. How easy was that! Your guest will love to add it to Coca-Cola and make fresh vanilla soda.</div>
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Make sure you have plenty of bowls set aside for freshly cut fruit.<br />
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Cranberry-mint ice cubes are perfect for Sprite cranberry.<br />
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Add a sprig of fresh mint to your Gold Peak Tea for an extra burst of flavor!<br />
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Use your candied lemon and orange peel Christmas tree stirrers with your Sprite cranberry as a garnish and a treat!<br />
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What's your favorite way to enjoy the holidays, share stories and get the perfect photos? I think having a great, fully stocked beverage bar is a good start for some great conversation. It always seems to make my friends and family feel welcome. <span style="text-align: center;">What are your tips for making unforgettable memories this holiday season?</span></div>
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Dean Ludingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13114015575030599967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130922030268838259.post-43103608752359590892016-11-08T00:32:00.001-05:002020-12-12T20:05:00.329-05:00 Pet gift basket with personalized all natural DIY air dry clay paw print ornament<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p9s3MCv_IPg/WCFB1QJqxaI/AAAAAAAAH68/67XFFRNEkcAg7966pw2FheDX8y1EO0uQACLcB/s1600/purina-ornament-and-pet-cat-modern-gift-basket-DIY-10.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="DIY modern Pet Gift Basket idea pet lovers" border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p9s3MCv_IPg/WCFB1QJqxaI/AAAAAAAAH68/67XFFRNEkcAg7966pw2FheDX8y1EO0uQACLcB/s1600/purina-ornament-and-pet-cat-modern-gift-basket-DIY-10.jpg" title="DIY modern Pet Gift Basket idea pet lovers" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> I have a confession to make. I love shopping. I can unapologetically admit that I love it. I'm a guy that loves shopping. It doesn't matter if it's clothes, shoes, appliances, gadgets... if they sell it, I like buying it. There's just something fun and sublimely gratifying about getting anything new. Can any of you guys relate? I mean, I just don't get how anyone doesn't like shopping. How can you not? It just brings happiness. It's ...magical! </span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Ok, so I totally get the fact that it's almost the holiday season and you might be thinking that you wouldn't go anywhere near a store. </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">I can definitely understand people who might not be up for a stroll around the mall right about now. The eight weeks between Halloween and Christmas definitely aren't for the faint of heart. Fighting for a parking space, which is most likely no less than a quarter-mile away, isn't something everyone's up for.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> So for all of you non-shopaholics out there this next craft tutorial is perfect for you. I'm going to make it super easy for you to find all of your supplies. In fact, you're going to be able to purchase everything you need right at your local Stop & Shop or Food Giant. We're going to make two projects that are perfect for all of you pet lovers: a 100% all-natural paw print impression ornament and a completely stocked up gift basket. Keep reading and I'll show you exactly what you'll need to make both projects</span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">.</span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #212121; font-family: wf_segoe-ui_normal, "Segoe UI", "Segoe WP", Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif;"><div class="x_p1" style="color: #454545; font-family: ".SF UI Text"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
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As promised, you can pick up all of these supplies while you're out and about doing your weekly grocery shopping. You can find everything for your paw print ornament AND your pet lover's gift basket at the same store. I mean who has time to make separate<span style="text-align: justify;"> stops at different </span>specialty<span style="text-align: justify;"> pet stores? Everything you need can be found right at Stop & Shop or Giant Food!</span>
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<a href="http://cbi.as/5k8nc" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u8g8hGTYMxs/WB1kJt-PnuI/AAAAAAAAH5Q/_XpJuHpdx4EapYIQtUA_TcprFlHnD1FHwCLcB/s1600/purina-collective-bias-social-fabric-in-store-photo.jpg" /></a></div>
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For my ginormous gift basket, I chose some of my cat's favorite products. He absolutely LOVES <a href="http://cbi.as/5k8nc" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Fancy Feast</a> broth packets. He would eat them all day if I'd let him. He also loves this new item by Purina, <a href="http://cbi.as/5k9bg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">DentaLife</a> treats. These treats are great because he love them AND they help with his oral care. I also like to give him a mix of both wet and dry food. You can pick up a box of 24 cans of <a href="http://cbi.as/5k8nc" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Fancy Feast</a> canned food add to your gift basket as well as a bag of dry food. Oh and definitely don't forget the kitty litter. Any cat owner will tell you it's most important. I chose to use <a href="http://www.tidycats.com/stopstankface" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Tidy Cats® </a>Lightweight. Let me tell you, this stuff is amazing. First of all, it weighs next to nothing which is perfect for my gift basket. It is completely low maintenance and smells totally fresh; it's the one in the commercials with the <a href="http://cbi.as/5k8nc" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">TidyLock™</a> Protection to prevent Stank Face!!! </div>
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Now that you have everything you need for your gift basket, head on over to the baking aisle where you can pick up the supplies you need for the ornaments!<br />
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<li> 1 C Baking Soda</li>
<li> 1/2 C Cornstarch</li>
<li> 3/4 C Water</li>
<li> Matte Finish Decoupage Medium</li>
<li> Martha Stewart Crafts Paint in Gold</li>
<li> Circle Cookie Cutter</li>
<li> <a href="https://goo.gl/FXbR1R" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Clear Acrylic Script Stamp Set</a></li>
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Making your all-natural air clay couldn't be easier. I love the fact that it's completely safe for pets especially cats. Any residue left on your pet's paws won't be an issue if he or she accidentally ingests it. I love that. So let's get right to it.</div>
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Add baking soda, corn starch, and water to a saucepan over medium-low heat.<br />
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Quickly bring to a boil while whisking everything together.<br />
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Turn off heat and stir until mixture resembles thick whipped potatoes.<br />
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Spoon onto cutting board sprinkled with corn starch. Once mixture cools it should begin to resemble store-bought clay.<br />
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Use right away or keep in an airtight ziplock bag for up to a week.<br />
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Flatten the clay into a 1/4 inch pattie. To get a paw print from your furry friend, place clay on a plate and gently press their paw into the clay. What I really love about this homemade clay is the fact that it's so soft which makes it a lot easier to get the paw impression.<br />
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Use the clear acrylic stamps to spell out your pet's name. You may want to practice on a scrap piece of clay first to get the spacing right.<br />
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Use the cookie cutter to achieve a perfect circle.<br />
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Remember to create a hole for the ornament to hang from.<br />
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Let the clay dry overnight on a cookie rack. Brush decoupage sealer onto the imprinted side. This will seal the clay for painting and help to avoid splitting or cracking.<br />
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After the decoupage medium is fully dry you can paint over it with acrylic paint.<br />
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To get the paint into the grooves and crevices of the name, "press" it into the stamped letters and quickly wipe off excess with a damp sponge.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">Now you just need to use jute or twine to hang your ornament! How easy was that! </span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: inherit;">Thanks for stopping by. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I'd love to see what you make with your natural clay </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">or pet gift basket!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Add your link to your image in the comment section below</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">and be sure to follow or subscribe </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">for new and exciting posts!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: inherit;">To help you with your own gift basket, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Purina is offering 365Designs readers a <a href="http://cbi.as/5k9bg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">coupon</a> for </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">$2.00 off <span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"><a href="http://cbi.as/5k9bg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">DentaLife</a> cat treats</span> <a href="http://cbi.as/5k9bg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">!</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">And..</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">Grab a Stop & Shop Savory Magazine </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">to save $2.00 </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">on one package of Purina® Tidy Cats® Cat Litter </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">when you purchase one Purina® Friskies® OR</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"> Fancy Feast® Wet Cat Food Item. (thru 12/30/16)</span></div>
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Dean Ludingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13114015575030599967noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130922030268838259.post-67722954181004597612016-10-09T03:55:00.000-04:002016-10-09T03:51:25.784-04:00Sunflower Autumn Bouquet wrapped in burlap and twine<div style="text-align: justify;">
You've probably seen these trendy little arrangements in home goods stores everywhere. Faux sunflower flower bouquets wrapped in burlap that come in a variety of sizes and styles. Of course when I realized there was a remote possibility that I could make these myself, I dropped everything and headed to my nearest Michael's craft store. After closely inspecting most of the arrangements I realized they're fairly simple. All you really need are a few good quality faux flowers, some burlap and a hot glue gun You're really going to be surprised how easy these are. Keep reading and I'll show you exactly how to create these great seasonal decor bouquets. </div>
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<li>Elmers Glue</li>
<li>Dry Floral Foam <i>(this is the crunchy kind, not the soft mushy kind)</i></li>
<li>Burlap <i>(use the tightly woven kind usually sold in rolls or as table runners)</i></li>
<li>Satin ribbon in brown</li>
<li>Twine in assorted browns</li>
<li>Faux sunflower spray <i>(If you shop at a craft store during early or late fall you can get a great deal or use a 50% coupon on an expensive & great quality spray.)</i></li>
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I decided that the foam block was a little to large for my relatively small floral spray. You're not going to want too large of a block. You also don't want one too small. Use a photo from a store for reference. I've taken sooo many photos of items to get ideas for future projects. Just make sure to turn the sound off or you will eventually start to get looks ;)<br />
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You also want to be careful when trimming your wire stems. Don't cut too much at once and end up with too short of a stem. I would say that for this look you don't want the floral spray too high so you can definitely work with a stem you may have cut too short. <br />
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Arrange the flowers individually or as a whole. See which looks best. Next you want to cover the foam block with glue to help the burlap take on a crisp block shape.<br />
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Pull up the burlap around the block. Fold and crease if necessary. Use twine to tie the top and secure the burlap. Finish it off with a satin ribbon in a simple bow.<br />
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I hope you enjoyed this simple floral bouquet.</div>
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Feel free to share any ideas you may have in the comment section below and </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DP1ZX1eXIN0/VDytDKvmjWI/AAAAAAAADnw/ceg1EiIBNKw/s1600/IMG_5115.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DP1ZX1eXIN0/VDytDKvmjWI/AAAAAAAADnw/ceg1EiIBNKw/s1600/IMG_5115.jpg" /></a></div>
<span class="supplies-embed-widget"><script src="http://whimseybox.com/widgets/lists/3164.js?t=multigrid&height=250&width=700&show_title=true&a=khof3y4f" type="text/javascript"></script></span>Dean Ludingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13114015575030599967noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130922030268838259.post-37741001264566291122016-09-11T03:12:00.000-04:002016-09-11T03:12:43.993-04:00Create your own personalized engraved river rocks<h2>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;">How to create your own personalized engraved river rocks with inspirational words or names in a few easy steps</span></span></h2>
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There's something really quiet about the end of summer. It seems like the entire volume of the planet has been put on mute. There's a definite calm that happens once the kids go back to school and the endless days once again have a schedule. As much as I love summer, I definitely look forward to the fall. It really gives me a time to relax after a few hot months of summer. <br />
This past week for Labor Day I went on a short trip to Pennsylvania. They have to most beautiful scenic parks on the East Coast. One thing I really love about the area is the rivers. The parks in that area have the clearest, cleanest, and absolute freshest water anywhere. Anyone who's ever swum in a freshwater river knows what I'm talking about. The rivers are so clear they almost seems man made. It's pretty cool.<br />
As a kid, I loved collecting river rocks, the ones that line the beds of the streams. I find it amazing how nature can take rough, jagged clumps of stone and turn them into smoothly polished river rocks. It can take decades, even centuries for the water to grind away at the stones and sand them to perfection.<br />
Well, I've created a super simple way to create your own river rocks. In this simple tutorial, I've eliminated a century worth of grinding and sanding - cause lets face it who has that kind of time- and show you how you can create your very own river rocks. What's even better is that you can customize them with short inspirational words or names. Keep reading and I'll exactly what you need to do.<br />
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<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Polymer Clay <i>in assorted earthtone colors</i><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Pasta machine or clay roller<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://goo.gl/FXbR1R" target="_blank">Script alphabet</a> stamps<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Acrylic craft paint<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Aluminum foil<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Rubber gloves <i>*optional</i><o:p></o:p></span></li>
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Combine different shades clay and condition by running through a clay/pasta machine. Conditioning simply means to work hard clay until it becomes smooth and soft enough to use.</div>
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After your clay is well conditioned you want to roll it out to an even thickness. A good size is between 1/8th and 1/4 inch thick. </div>
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Take the aluminum foil and create an egg shape. Smooth out the foil so no sharp edges remain. </div>
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Take the clay and wrap around the foil and lightly flatten to form the shape of a river rock. If you notice a lot of finger prints in the clay you can try working with rubber gloves.</div>
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Use your <a href="http://goo.gl/FXbR1R" target="_blank">stamps</a> to create words in the clay. Smooth out any marks left by the stamps. </div>
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Bake the clay according to the manufacturer's instruction. The standard baking time is 25min. per 1/4 inch thickness. Ovens can vary with their actual temperature compared to what they read. </div>
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After your clay stones are completely cooled you can begin to paint the stamped words. The trick to painting the letters is to "place" or "press" the paint into the letter's grooves. Wipe any excess with a dry or lightly misted paper towel.<br />
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How did your river rocks turn out?<br />
I'd love for your to share any ideas in the comment section below.<br />
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<br />Dean Ludingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13114015575030599967noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5130922030268838259.post-87525181287931389872016-09-01T03:26:00.000-04:002016-10-09T03:31:35.457-04:00Moroccan Quatrefoil Candle wraps feat. American Home™ by Yankee Candle® and Martha Stewart Crafts™ Punch All Over the Page Country Tile and Caning Pattern<div style="text-align: left;">
Thanks to #CollectiveBias , Inc. and its advertiser, #LoveAmericanHome , for sponsoring today's post. All opinions are completely mine. </div>
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Hi guys!!! I hope everyone's having an awesome summer. Can you believe it's the middle of August already, how crazy is that?! The time really does go by so fast. Now I know you may not be ready to bring out all of your fall decor, but I have a great way to help you ease into the season. There is an easy way to begin incorporating little hints of rustic autumn style into your home. It's really simple actually. Just add candles. </div>
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Adding a few seasonal candles around the house really adds a nice accent not to mention great fragrance. I've always been in love with candles. Don't they just brighten up the entire house. The only problem is that I never seem to have enough. I go through candles like Taylor Swift goes through boyfriends ;) Well guess what...I just found out that my absolute, all time favorite, king of candles is now available at Walmart. </div>
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Yup, that's right. They're called <a href="http://cbi.as/kg26" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">American Home</a><a href="http://cbi.as/kg26" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">™</a> by <a href="http://cbi.as/kg26" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Yankee Candle</a><a href="http://cbi.as/kg26" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">®</a>. and they are uhhhn-believably amazingly. PLUS I bought the super jumbo size for less than $15. ( $14.93 to be exact) WIN!! They are literally right in the center of the store in the Home Fragrance department with the home decor items (aka my favorite section.)</div>
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So I want to show you how to dress up these tumbler candles to coordinate and match any style. In this case, I wanted to recreate the look of metallic quatrefoil candle holders. It's actually incredibly easy and really adds flair to what ever style you're trying to achieve. Keep reading and I'll show you what to do. </div>
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<a name='more'></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2KsaLhmtaXc/VcrLv1ppUBI/AAAAAAAAFIA/0Ykelb-ARmg/s1600/yankee%2Bcandle%2Boverhead.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2KsaLhmtaXc/VcrLv1ppUBI/AAAAAAAAFIA/0Ykelb-ARmg/s1600/yankee%2Bcandle%2Boverhead.jpg" /></a><br />
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<li>19oz. Tumbler or <a href="http://cbi.as/kg26" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Apothecary Jar Candles*</a></li>
<li>Martha Stewart Crafts Paper Cutter</li>
<li>Martha Stewart Crafts Punch All Over The Page <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005574FFY/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=211189&creative=373489&creativeASIN=B005574FFY&link_code=as3&tag=365desig0b-20&linkId=DKJ27QU5EBNANBC4" target="_blank">Country Tile</a> or <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005574FLS/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=211189&creative=373489&creativeASIN=B005574FLS&link_code=as3&tag=365desig0b-20&linkId=SJYJ26E4VFOU5Q6W" target="_blank">Caning Pattern</a> </li>
<li>12x12 Cardstock</li>
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To begin you'll want to cut your 12X12 Cardstock at 51/2 inches. You'll actually be able to get 2 full sheets from one page....LOVE IT. (I can't tell you how many leftover pieces of cardstock I have because I can't bear to throw away good paper ;) In this demo I used an awesome paper I found that looks like mercury glass. However, after punching it out, the effect of the mercury glass was lost. I decided to go with a solid dark brown to achieve the look I was after. </div>
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Align the punch to keep about a 1/2 inch margin on the top. You should get 3 punch patterns from top to bottom. This will leave you with an equal 1/2 inch margin on the bottom. I find that this approximate measurement works with both punches I used.</div>
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The Martha Stewart Crafts Punches are very easy to use. The come with patterns to align your paper to ensure an even punch. If you feel any resistance try punching through aluminum foil to sharpen, then wax paper to lightly lubricate. </div>
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There you have it! </div>
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Awesome candle wraps that </div>
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look just like those expensive </div>
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metal candle holders you </div>
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find in the home goods stores.</div>
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You can even try to create your own candle garden. </div>
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I'd love to see what you come up with. </div>
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Feel free to share in the comment section below.</div>
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Thanks for stopping by!</div>
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<a href="http://cbi.as/kg26" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">*All candles shown can be found in the Home Fragrance or Candle department at Walmart. </a><br />
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<br />Dean Ludingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13114015575030599967noreply@blogger.com4