Autumn Things

Wow, the blogging community has really been embracing autumn! Me? Not so much.

You see, the reason why I dislike fall is because it leads to winter.

This may seem like a strange statement considering that my favorite season is summer, then winter, then spring, then fall. winter is boosted up to second place for several reasons, one being that my business really picks up in the winter (I sell heating pads and greeting cards). 

But the main reason is Christmas, which not only symbolized Jesus's birth, but also it just fills the air with joy and love and cheerfulness.  also, I looove Christmas carols. And Christmas movies. And Christmas lights. And Christmas trees. And egg nog. And Black Friday. 

Back on track. Besides, since winter doesn't start until December 20, most of those things happen in fall. so, maybe I do like it. Except for the weather. I live in the midwest, where we have HOT summers and COLD winters. I'm talking negative degrees, people. And that's in Fahrenheit.

So I decided that to convince myself that autumn is a good thing, I'd make a piece of art.

What you'll need:

Pen 

cardstock (white)

water colors

1) Using different calligraphies, write fill the page with things you love about fall.

2) Fill the spaces with doodles corresponding to the words

3) Using the watercolors, fill in illustrations or letters to create a busy, somewhat abstract masterpiece.

So, do you like fall?

<3 Danielle

Coconut + Olive Sugar Scrub

Last year when I was Christmas shopping, I stopped in Bath and Body Works. I love that place, and almost always go crazy trying out all those tester bottles of lotions, perfumes, and soaps. And don't even get me started on candle-smelling. (Oh my gosh, the mint chocolate chip!)

Anyways, it was there that I first discovered sugar scrubs. I was just going along, sampling basically everything, when suddenly my life got much better. It's shocking how smooth my skin gets from that stuff! But at $16 a bottle (I'm on a tight budget) I decided to forego the indugence until a later time.

But on the ride home, the wheels in my head started turning. There had to be a easy, cheaper way to recreate the magical lotion. And so I did. Now this is not much like the chemical-laden stuff at Bath and Body Works, but it completes the job with the same outcome. Maybe if you want the same consistency as the stuff at the store, substitute your favorite lotion for the oils. I have not tried this, so let me know if it works!

 I like to use this on my legs after I shave. It makes them feel like butter! This also makes a cute gift for hostesses, party favors, etc.

Coconut and Olive Sugar Scrub

1 cup granulated sugar
2 Tbsp. Olive oil
3 Tbsp. Coconut oil

Mix all ingredients until well combined. Add extra oil if you'd like a more spreadable consistancy. Store in an air-tight container, and avoid allowing liquids into container.

To use:
Rub the scrub against skin in a back and forth motion. Wash off with washcloth or running water.

~~{~@  Danielle

Homemade Ketchup

Hello Everyone, and happy Fourth of July!
I have a last minute recipe for all your barbecues today, which works out well because this is the type of recipe perfect for last minute needs!

This homemade ketchup is not only easy, but it's also at least a million times better than store bought. Not only is it more delicious, but also, it's waaaay more healthy. No high fructose corn syrup and no preservatives. Hallelujah!

This condiment also is a bit thicker than the stuff you buy at the store. If the thickness bothers you, maybe add a bit more water about a teaspoon at a time, until it's to your liking.

The contrast between this recipe and Heinz Ketchup is so huge even in appearence. Below is a picture of Heinz.
Notice how it lacks texture and the deepness of color that the homemade retains. Well, if this discussion hasn't convinced you, it's convinced me! I'm never going back!

Of course, I could brag on this ketchup all day because, it's not really my own recipe, I've just veryslightly modified it. To try out the legit recipe and visit the totally awesome blog from which I extracted the formula, visit Edible Sound Bites.

Homemade Ketchup        Makes about 1 cup.
1/4 cup water
2 Tbsp. Brown Sugar
2 Tbsp. Apple Cider Vinegar
1/4 tsp. Cumin
1/4 tsp. Cinnamon
1 tiny pinch cloves
1 larger pinch salt
1 can tomato paste

1) In a small saucepan over medium- low heat, dissolve sugar in water.
2) Stir in vinegar, cumin, cinnamon, cloves, and salt until they are dispersed throughout the sugar water.
3) Remove from heat and stir in tomato paste.
4) Store in an air tight container in the fridge.

Enjoy!
~Danielle