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Friday, January 31, 2014

Free Printable Robot Valentines

Friday, January 31, 2014

Free Printable Robot Valentines

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Free Printable Robot Valentines at artsyfartsymama.com #freeprintable #Valentine

Do we have any robot fans out there? I'm so excited to finally share these cute Robot Valentines with you!! These robot Valentines will be fun for any child to hand out, and it's easy to add a treat or non-candy items (though they are totally fine to give out as-is)!

Wednesday, January 29, 2014

DIY Bling Crutches

Wednesday, January 29, 2014

DIY Bling Crutches

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In June 2013, I fell and got a really bad tibial plateau fracture. I had to have surgery, and I've now got 2 plates and around 13 screws. I spent 3 months down on bedrest (no weight bearing at all) and used a walker. At the end of September, I was able to bear weight on my leg, but I had to relearn how to walk & use my leg. In November, I finally started using crutches and am still on them. I will most likely have to change to a cane within the next couple of months, then hopefully be walking without help soon!!

I've been trying to keep a positive attitude once this happened, and the thought of having to be on crutches for so long started to wear on me. So, since I still have a ways to go, I decided to make my crutches a little more...me! Having sparkly crutches did just the thing to be a little more willing to go out in public, and it surprisingly boosted my confidence a little!

So, this tutorial is for anyone on crutches who just want to make to make those boring, old crutches shine - and not have to spend a lot of money or time doing so.

DIY Bling Crutches at artsyfartsymama.com #bling #makeover

Supplies:
Crutches (or walker, cane, etc)
Darice 18 Row Silver Bling on a Roll
Darice 18 Row Black Bling on a Roll 
E6000 or other strong glue (that will stick to metal)

I love that my crutches look like I spent hours and tons of glue, but honestly it really took me about an hour and not much glue at all! Darice's Bling on a Roll makes blinging anything quick and easy with a beautiful result (check out my Bling Frame tutorial)!

I received Darice's products for my Bling Frame project, and had plenty of leftover to use on my crutches. I didn't have enough of black roll to cover them completely, so I split it up with silver.

DIY Bling Crutches at artsyfartsymama.com #bling #makeover

Attaching them is easy! Measure around the crutch bar and cut the Bling on a Roll. Cut all the pieces at once so you can be sure you have enough! Add some glue to the back side of each end and down one line in the center. 

Carefully wrap the bling around so the seam/edges meet on the inside part of the crutches. Hold in place for a minute or two until the bling stays in place. Repeat until your crutches are covered. Let dry overnight, and then you're done! Super simple, and they are so fun!!

Here is my awesome x-ray for anyone who wants to see what a mess it is:


Tuesday, January 28, 2014

Homemade Maple Syrup

Tuesday, January 28, 2014

Homemade Maple Syrup

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This post is part of a social shopper marketing insight campaign with Pollinate Media Group™ and Jimmy Dean, but all my opinions are my own. #pmedia #onthego http://cmp.ly/3/8vNxcO.

JImmy Dean Pancakes & Sausage on a Stick with Homemade Maple Syrup at artsyfartsymama.com #PMedia #onthego

I've shared a lot of recipes for easy, quick dinner ideas, but today I'm going to share one of my family's favorite on-the-go breakfasts: Jimmy Dean Pancakes and Sausage on a Stick. Yes. On a stick. I love that they are an easy option for families who are rushing out the door early in the morning and need something sustainable for breakfast, and kids love them!

Monday, January 27, 2014

Sweet Hearts Word Set

Monday, January 27, 2014

Sweet Hearts Word Set

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Sweet Hearts Word Set at artsyfartsymama.com #Valentines #WoodCreations

I'm so excited to be decorating for Valentine's Day. Wood Creations has the cutest Valentines crafts available right now. I had a hard time choosing one to work on. I finally decided on the Sweet Hearts Set, and I "love" how it turned out!!

Sweet Hearts Word Set at artsyfartsymama.com #Valentines #WoodCreations

Once you've sanded the letters/shapes, it's time to paint! I used DecoArt Americana Acrylic paints in Brilliant Red, Bahama Blue, and Peony Pink. Each letter and the heart shapes got two coats each, and the block got three coats. Let the paint dry completely between coats.

Sweet Hearts Word Set at artsyfartsymama.com #Valentines #WoodCreations

Once the paint is dry, apply the "Hearts" vinyl that comes included in the kit. Place the vinyl closer to the left side of the block so you will have room to glue the wood hearts on the right side later. Set the block aside.

Sweet Hearts Word Set at artsyfartsymama.com #Valentines #WoodCreations

When the paint on the letters is dry, get out your Mod Podge and glitter. Work one letter at a time, and paint the Mod Podge on kind of thick with a sponge brush. 

I used the Recollections glitter in Cherry, Taffy, and Gold. I really love the Recollections glitter because the lid comes off - which makes putting the extra glitter back a snap! The texture is also perfect for these kinds of projects.

Sweet Hearts Word Set at artsyfartsymama.com #Valentines #WoodCreations

Lay the letter on a scrap piece of paper, and pour your glitter over the letter. Make sure all the Mod Podge is covered. Let sit for a few minutes. If you're feeling multi-functional, work on multiple letters/papers at a time.

Sweet Hearts Word Set at artsyfartsymama.com #Valentines #WoodCreations

Carefully stand the letter up over the paper, and tap off any excess glitter. Bend the paper slightly in half and pour the extra glitter back into the container. You could also use a small funnel if you want to make less of a mess.

Sweet Hearts Word Set at artsyfartsymama.com #Valentines #WoodCreations

Once all the letters and hearts are all covered in glitter (yay!!), glue the small heart onto the large heart. Once dry, glue the hearts onto the block. Let dry completely before moving. If you attach with hot glue, it should set pretty quick. If you use something like E6000, let it dry overnight.

Sweet Hearts Word Set at artsyfartsymama.com #Valentines #WoodCreations

Spray the entire set with clear spray paint to help keep the glitter in place. Place the set on a mantel or shelf, and get ready for Valentine's Day!! These are fun to make on your own, or visit Wood Creations and make it a girl's craft night!!

The amazing Wood Creations is also letting me give away a Sweet Hearts set to one lucky reader!! Wood Creations has locations in both Utah and Idaho, or you can order online. Follow them on Facebook to see new crafts and sales!

Enter through the Rafflecopter form below.
The giveaway ends on Friday, January 31st.


Disclosure: I received product from Wood Creations, Recollections, and DecoArt. All opinions are my own.

Sunday, January 26, 2014

14 Free Printable Valentines

Sunday, January 26, 2014

14 Free Printable Valentines

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14 Free Printable Valentines at artsyfartsymama.com #freeprintable #Valentines

Valentine's Day is almost here, and today I'm sharing 14 of my favorite FREE printable Valentines from myself and other talented bloggers. Every design is so fun, and can be paired with or without candy!! I'm sure they will be a hit with any kid this Valentine's Day!!

Saturday, January 25, 2014

Wood & Amazonite Jewelry Set

Saturday, January 25, 2014

Wood & Amazonite Jewelry Set

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Making jewelry was always something I've been intimidated to make. After going through my bead stash, I was inspired to make this necklace and earring set. I loved both beads (and even ordered them separately), but never thought of the two paired together until I was sorting through the beads. After spending an evening putting them together, this necklace and earring set are probably some of my favorite pieces!!

Moral of the story: even though some type of crafting might seem intimidating, try it anyway. You might just love it!!

Wood & Amazonite Jewelry Set Tutorial at artsyfartsymama.com #jewelry

Supplies: (for necklace)
Wood Oval Beads (found at Wholeport)
12 Amazonite Beads (found at Wholeport)
Bead Wire
Chain
Lobster Clasp
4 Jump Rings (2 regular, 2 small)
6 Crimp Beads
Jewelry Tools

Directions:
  1. Cut a length of bead wire for the necklace. Tip: Cut longer than you think you'll need - you'll just have to cut again if you end up cutting too short.
  2. Thread one end of the bead wire through a crimp bead, then through a small jump ring, then back through the crimp bead. Pull tight so that the crimp bead is butted up against the jump ring. With your pliers or crimping tool, pinch the crimp bead closed.
  3. Thread on two amazonite beads, then a wooden bead. You can tuck the end of the bead wire that was threaded through into the first couple of beads.
  4. Once you've added 12 amazonite beads and 5 wooden beads, finish the end by threading the wire though the crimp bead, jump ring, and back through, then pinching closed.
  5. Cut two lengths of chain (about 6-8 inches long), and attach one to each small jump ring.
  6. Add one large jump ring at the other end of each chain, and attach a lobster clasp on one of the jump rings.
  7. Enjoy your new necklace!!

Supplies: (for earrings)
Wood Oval Beads (found at Wholeport)
Amazonite Beads (found at Wholeport)
Bead Wire
4 Crimp Beads
2 Earring Hooks
Jewelry Tools

Directions:
  1. Cut a length of bead wire for each earring. Tip: Cut longer than you think you'll need.
  2. Thread one end of the bead wire through a crimp bead, then back through the crimp bead. Pull tight so that the bead wire is bent inside the crimp bead. With your pliers or crimping tool, pinch the crimp bead closed.
  3. Thread on a wooden bead and two amazonite beads. You can tuck the end of the bead wire into the wood bead.
  4. Thread the end of the bead wire through a crimp bead, then through the loop of the earring hook, then back through the crimp bead. Pull tight so that the crimp bead is butted up against the earring hook loop and also close to the beads. Pinch the crimp bead closed.
  5. Repeat for the other earring.
  6. Enjoy your new earrings!

Friday, January 24, 2014

Wake Up & Be Awesome Pen Holder

Friday, January 24, 2014

Wake Up & Be Awesome Pen Holder

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This post is sponsored by Mod Podge and Plaid.

I'll be honest: my office desk is a mess. Ever since I broke my leg, we've had to shift my computer/office equipment around and everything is just out of order. Papers are all over the place, stacks of unfinished projects, and I can never find a pen when I need it (and more than enough when I don't). I've had enough! So thanks to a little Mod Podge and some creativity, I think I've gotten off to a good start.

Wake Up & Be Awesome Pen Holder at artsyfartsymama.com #modpodge #plaidcrafts

In my efforts to try and get things organized, I decided to start by making a pen holder that is both functional and something I'd love to look at every day. A pen holder might seem like such a small thing, but when it comes to organization, every little bit counts. Having a designated place for everything will help you stay organized in the future.

Wake Up & Be Awesome Pen Holder with Sheer Mod Podge at artsyfartsymama.com #modpodge #plaidcrafts

Supplies:
2x4 block, cut to about 6" long
Mod Podge Sheer Purple
Vinyl (any color)
Mod Podge Spouncers
White Acrylic Paint
Sandpaper
Drill & 3/8-1/2" drill bit

I love Mod Podge and am so impressed with the Mod Podge Sheer line. It comes in a variety of colors, and can be used to tint glass, wood, and even tin!! You can find the Mod Podge Sheer at both Michaels and on the Plaid website.

Wake Up & Be Awesome Pen Holder at artsyfartsymama.com #modpodge #plaidcrafts

I decided to try the Mod Podge Sheer on wood to see how it worked. With every layer, the color gets a little brighter, but I love how the wood grain still shows through. It's glossy, but not tacky at all. I ended up painting on three layers of Sheer purple. Let dry 15-20 minutes between coats.

I let the block dry overnight, then cut out the phrase "Wake Up & Be Awesome" in white vinyl. I decided on this phrase because I usually try to start working in the morning, and I can use all the motivation I can get some days.

I marked the centers of the block and applied the vinyl. Make sure you press all the edges of the letters really well. You could leave the block as-is (I almost did), but I think the next few steps take it to the next level.

Wake Up & Be Awesome Pen Holder at artsyfartsymama.com #modpodge #plaidcrafts

Next, I used a Mod Podge Spouncer and the lid of some white acrylic paint (it fits perfectly) and carefully added paint over the vinyl. Try not to add the paint on too heavily, or it could bleed through. These little spouncers are so easy to use and fit perfectly in your hand. I like using these A LOT more than the other kind that just have a straight wooden handle.

Wake Up & Be Awesome Pen Holder at artsyfartsymama.com #modpodge #plaidcrafts

Once you have a layer of paint over the vinyl, use a regular sponge brush and paint the rest of the block with white acrylic paint. I painted about three layers to completely cover the block. Let dry completely between coats.

Wake Up & Be Awesome Pen Holder at artsyfartsymama.com #modpodge #plaidcrafts

Carefully pull up the vinyl with your fingernail, vinyl hook tool, or Xacto knife blade. If any paint leaked through, gently scrape it off with an Xacto knife. It will be a mess if you peel up the vinyl when the paint is still wet, so be sure to wait as long as possible.

Wake Up & Be Awesome Pen Holder at artsyfartsymama.com #modpodge #plaidcrafts

Sand all the edges of the block until some of the purple shows through. There's a few spots where I sanded too much and the wood is showing, but I love it!! Some of the dust stuck to the Mod Podge, but wiped away just fine with a lightly dampened cloth.

Wake Up & Be Awesome Pen Holder at artsyfartsymama.com #modpodge #plaidcrafts

If you don't want to turn it into a pen holder, this would also make a great paperweight!

Wake Up & Be Awesome Pen Holder at artsyfartsymama.com #modpodge #plaidcrafts

Decide how many pens you'd like to be able to store in the block. Mark out where you need to drill the holes for the pens and draw an "x" with a pencil. With a 3/8-1/2" drill bit, carefully drill a hole over each mark. Add your pens to the holes and place on your desk for some motivational organization!!

To learn more about the new Plaid products, watch these video tutorials:
How To Tint Glass with Mod Podge Sheer Colors • Learn How To Use Mod Podge Sheer Colors

Sign up for Plaid’s weekly newsletter or follow Plaid on Pinterest for tutorials, inspiration, and more Mod Podge ideas!

Friday, January 17, 2014

Perfect Mini Meatloaf

Friday, January 17, 2014

Perfect Mini Meatloaf

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My mom's meatloaf recipe was one of my favorites growing up, but I was too nervous to try it out myself. I've always perceived meatloaf to be some complicated recipe that took way too long to cook. So, when my husband requested meatloaf for dinner one night, I decided to take the plunge. I got my mom's recipe, and realized I should have been making it all along. So much easier than I thought, and it comes out perfect every time!!

Perfect Mini Meatloaf at artsyfartsymama.com #recipe #easydinner #lowcarb

Ingredients:
1 1/2 lb Ground Beef
1 Egg
1/2 c Quick-Cook Oats OR 1 cup Bread Crumbs/Cracker Crumbs (add more if mixture is too wet)
1/2-1 Small Onion
Seasoning Salt and Pepper (to taste)
1 Tbsp Worcestershire Sauce (optional)

Topping:
1/3 cup Ketchup
2 Tbsp Mustard
2 Tbsp Brown Sugar

Perfect Mini Meatloaf at artsyfartsymama.com #recipe #easydinner #lowcarb

Directions:
  1. Preheat oven to 350º
  2. In a bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, onion, and oats (or bread/cracker crumbs). Season with salt and pepper to taste. 
  3. Roll meat into a 2" balls and place in muffin tin. If you want to make a meat"loaf", place meat in a lightly greased 5x9 inch loaf pan.
  4. Bake mini meatloaf for 15 minutes (loaf for about 45-60 minutes)
  5. While meatloaf is baking, mix together ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar in a small bowl until combined.
  6. Take meatloaf out of the oven, and add some topping to the meatloaf. Bake for another 5-10 minutes.
  7. Pair with slow cooker mashed potatoes and enjoy!
This recipe really is super easy, and making them mini-sized is perfect if you're dieting and want to control portion sizes, not to mention it's a great size for kids! Or, make a bunch as a fun appetizer on game day!

Wednesday, January 15, 2014

Strawberry Cream Fruit Dip

Wednesday, January 15, 2014

Strawberry Cream Fruit Dip

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Strawberry Cream Fruit Dip at artsyfartsymama.com #recipe

Whether you make this dip to eat while watching a game, for a party, or just to have for a snack, you certainly won't be sorry! It is the best fruit dip I have ever had, and with only TWO ingredients, it couldn't be easier. I even let my daughter help mix it up for us to snack on together.

Ingredients:
8 oz strawberry cream cheese*
7 oz marshmallow fluff

*Not a strawberry fan? Plain cream cheese is also delicious, or you can find cream cheese in a variety of flavors like blueberry, pineapple, and pumpkin!

Directions:
Add cream cheese and marshmallow fluff into a mixing bowl. Stir until combined.
Keep refrigerated and serve with all different kinds of fruit.

That's it! Mix up some today and enjoy!

Monday, January 13, 2014

How to Install a Bathroom Faucet

Monday, January 13, 2014

How to Install a Bathroom Faucet

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While I appreciate my husband's incredible handy-man skills, I do enjoy learning how to be able to fix things at home. I've been able to help him finish a basement, so I've learned a few new skills. One thing I haven't been able to learn is plumbing, but I've always been interested in learning.

How to Install a Bathroom Faucet at artsyfartsymama.com #Moen

When Moen asked if I'd like to try one of their faucets, I jumped (metaphorically) at the chance!! Since my leg is still recovering, I sadly couldn't crawl under the bathroom sink to install the new faucet. Luckily, my husband volunteered to show me how to install it. If you are nervous about doing this in your own home, don't be! It turned out to be A LOT easier than I ever thought it would be. Plumbing sounds pretty scary, but it's possible to be able to do this all on your own instead of adding it to the dreaded, never-ending "honey-do" list!

How to Install a Bathroom Faucet at artsyfartsymama.com #Moen

When doing any kind of renovation, it's always fun to take a "before" shot. Prep the sink area by wiping things down and clear off any unnecessary items that might get in the way. The less clutter, the better.

How to Install a Bathroom Faucet at artsyfartsymama.com #Moen

We decided on the Moen Ashville bathroom faucet with a spot resist brushed nickel with Microban® finish. Before you start ripping things out, open the faucet package and make sure all the faucet pieces are there (saves you a trip to the store later) and get out all the supplies, tools, etc that you might need. Read through the instructions before you get started. That way, you know what to expect and don't come across any surprises.

**Also, I HIGHLY recommend you start this project early in the day in case you come across any unexpected trips to the store (I might be speaking from experience, so learn from my mistakes).

How to Install a Bathroom Faucet at artsyfartsymama.com #Moen

First, turn off your water. You can turn your main water off for the whole house (might be the easiest and most cost-effective route). Or there are two valves under the sink that you can turn off. Note that if you do turn off the valves under the sink, you may have to replace the valves since the seals can go bad (which is a common problem).

Turn on the tap to drain any water left in the pipes and to make sure you turned your water off properly. Get a large pot or bucket and place it under the valve before you unscrew the hose. Let it drain completely, then repeat with the other hose. There will be water left in the hoses, and it will most definitely leak. You probably don't want to end up with a huge puddle in your cabinet.

How to Install a Bathroom Faucet at artsyfartsymama.com #Moen

Some faucets require you to completely remove the hoses so you can loosen the nuts holding the faucet down. Remove the nuts (and hoses, if necessary), and work on removing the old faucet. If your faucet is stuck down, use a putty knife or something to pry the faucet up. Pull out the faucet and set it aside. You might need it later for reference, so don't throw it out just yet!

How to Install a Bathroom Faucet at artsyfartsymama.com #Moen

To remove the drain, use channel locks to loosen the large nut at the top of the drain pipe under the sink, and the nut of the p-trap. You may need to use a second pair of channel locks to hold the drain as you loosen the big nut underneath. Pull out the drain (be prepared, it will be disgusting!!) and set it aside with the old faucet.

How to Install a Bathroom Faucet at artsyfartsymama.com #Moen

Now you have a faucet and drain-proof sink! It's definitely disgustingly dirty, so get out the sink cleaner and clean it as best you can. You might need a putty knife to scrape off any stubborn gunk.

How to Install a Bathroom Faucet at artsyfartsymama.com #Moen

Now it's time to add your new drain! You'll need plumber's putty to seal the drain to the sink so you don't have any leaks. Roll the plumber's putty into a long snake, and wrap it around the underside of the lip of the new drain. Push the drain down into the sink hole.

How to Install a Bathroom Faucet at artsyfartsymama.com #Moen

Now, add the large seal and nut to the bottom of the drain, and tighten. As you tighten, it will compress the drain pieces together to get a good seal. Some of the putty will squish out, and you can just wipe any excess away with a paper towel or your fingers. Reattach the drain pipe and p-trap, and the drain part is finished!

How to Install a Bathroom Faucet at artsyfartsymama.com #Moen

Place the faucet into the holes in the sink faucet area. Take the nuts (included with the faucet kit) and tighten them to attach the faucet to the sink. Connect the drain stopper to the drain pipe and to the faucet pull (every faucet varies, so check your faucet instructions for specifics).

Next, attach some new braided water hoses (these are less likely to break & leak). They go from the faucet to the valves. These will replace the hoses you removed in the beginning. You do NOT want to reuse old hoses, since they may crack from being moved around. Once the hoses are attached, you are almost done!

How to Install a Bathroom Faucet at artsyfartsymama.com #Moen

 Check to make sure all the fittings are tight, and that you have pans and buckets close by. Slowly turn on your valves or main water. Make sure you do this SLOWLY, otherwise the pressure could blow out a fitting. Tearing out a wall should not be part of this project.

After the water is on and you don't see any leaks anywhere, take out the faucet aerator (in case there are any debris in the pipe that could clog the faucet. Slowly turn on the faucet to get the air out of the lines, and to make sure your drain doesn't leak. If it does leak, check to see if anything is loose or cracked. If you don't see any leaks, then you are done! Place the aerator back into the faucet.

How to Install a Bathroom Faucet at artsyfartsymama.com #Moen

The water and gunk throughout this process was pretty gross, so wipe the sink with an antibacterial soap or wipe, and clean the counter area. Speaking of cleaning, one thing I'm really impressed with is that this Moen Ashville faucet has Microban® antimicrobial protection built in to the faucet finish. This helps inhibit the growth of stain and odor-causing bacteria, mold, and mildew. And, even better, the Spot Resist™ finish helps resist fingerprints and water spots to help you spend less time cleaning. You don't even need to use a cleaner on the faucet itself - just wipe with a damp cloth!!

Connect with Moen on FacebookTwitterPinterestInstagram, and Google+

Disclosure: I received product from Moen in exchange for this review. All opinions are my 100% my own.

Sunday, January 12, 2014

35 Game Day Appetizer Recipes

Sunday, January 12, 2014

35 Game Day Appetizer Recipes

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35 Game Day Appetizer Recipes at artsyfartsymama.com #appetizer #recipes #SuperBowl

Do you like to cheer on your favorite team on game day with a party? Maybe just save all the partying for Super Bowl? Appetizers make easy and quick party food, and all 35 of these appetizer recipes will make the whole crowd cheer with joy - or will make some great comfort food if your team happens to lose...

35 Game Day Appetizer Recipes at artsyfartsymama.com #appetizer #recipes #SuperBowl

1.  Mini Pretzel Dogs with Horseradish Dipping Sauce from Juanita's Cocina
2. Restaurant Style Onion Rings from Chef in Training
3. Pull-Apart Pizza from Plain Chicken
4. Buffalo Meatballs from I Breathe...I'm Hungry...
5. Loaded Baked Potato Bites from Mary Ellen's Cooking Creations
6. Crock-Pot Meatball Sliders with Peach Chipotle BBQ Sauce from The Tasty Fork
7. Skinny Baked Popcorn Shrimp from Gimme Some Oven
8. Kickin' Chicken Bites from Julie's Eats & Treats
9. Bacon Chile Cornbread Mini Muffins from Just Us Four
10. Creamy Baked Double Cheese & Sweet Onion Dip from Averie Cooks
11. Spinach Dip Bites from Chocolate, Chocolate and More
12. Pizzadillas from Artsy-Fartsy Mama
13. Cream Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms from This Silly Girl's Life
14. Slow Cooker Drunken BBQ Chicken Wings from This Silly Girl's Life
15. Quick & Easy Mexican Bites from Yellow Bliss Road
16. Easy Cheesy Artichoke Bread from 30 Days
17. Crock-Pot Hawaiian Luau Meatballs from Chew Out Loud
18. Sun-Dried Tomato & Bacon Cheeseball from I Dig Pinterest

35 Game Day Appetizer Recipes at artsyfartsymama.com #appetizer #recipes #SuperBowl

19. Chili Cornbread Pockets from Mostly Homemade Mom
20. Buffalo Chicken Dip from Tastes Better from Scratch
21. Pizza Pinwheels from Inside BruCrew Life
22. Tangy Crock Pot Lil' Smokies from Shaken Together Life
23. Four Ingredient Cheese Sticks from Roxana's Home Baking
24. Cocktail Sauce from A Mother's Shadow
25. BBQ Brisket Nachos from Around My Family Table
26. Honey BBQ Wings from Lil' Luna
27. Homemade Pizza Pockets from Life and Kitchen
28. Mini Frito Pies from Sweet Bella Roo's
29. Super Simple Stromboli from Artsy-Fartsy Mama
30. Creamy Buffalo Chicken Cups from Scattered Thoughts of a Crafty Mom
31. Blue Cheese Ranch Dip from Lemons for Lulu
32. Cheesecake Factory Avocado Egg Rolls from Lil' Luna
33. Beef Queso Dip from Damn Delicious
34. Sausage & Jalapeño Poppers with Beer Cheese Dipping Sauce from A Little CLAIREification
35. Bacon Wrapped Mini Sausages with Brown Sugar from Dessert Now, Dinner Later

Friday, January 10, 2014

Free Printable "We Belong Together" Valentines

Friday, January 10, 2014

Free Printable "We Belong Together" Valentines

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Free Printable "We Belong Together" Valentines at artsyfartsymama.com #freeprintable #Valentines

I'm sure you've heard the phrase "We belong together like... (fill in the blank with some kind of food)". I love that even foods can be BFFs, so why not turn them into a printable Valentine? I had a really hard time narrowing down my choices to only four (which might mean I make more if you guys end up liking these...)!

There's no designated spot for treats, but whether you add them or go the non-treat route, these Valentines will be so fun to give out! All four Valentine designs are on one sheet in a single PDF. Print on cardstock for best results.


Some things you should know before downloading:
*Artsy-Fartsy Mama printables are for PERSONAL USE ONLY.
*You may NOT modify, re-sell, redistribute, or claim the design as your own.
*Please do not remove the watermark.
*If you post this on the internet, credit must be given to Artsy-Fartsy Mama & linked back to my blog.

Wednesday, January 8, 2014

Free Printable Monthly Menu Planner

Wednesday, January 8, 2014

Free Printable Monthly Menu Planner

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Menu planning is always something I'm trying to work on. I keep up with it for a while, then things happen and I stop. Making dinner is a lot harder when you don't have a plan. You waste the evening asking each other, "I don't know. What do YOU want for dinner?" and then you eventually give up and go out to eat instead or end up eating cereal. Neither of those options are bad, but not great when it happens every. single. night. Menu planning seems a little overwhelming at first, but once you get the hang of it, it will be so much easier and life at dinnertime will become less stressful.

Free Printable Monthly Menu Planner at artsyfartsymama.com #freeprintable #menuplanner
Monday, January 6, 2014

DIY Zipper Earrings

Monday, January 6, 2014

DIY Zipper Earrings

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DIY Zipper Earrings at artsyfartsymama.com #jewelry #earrings

I love jewelry that's different than what everyone else is wearing. Even more, I enjoy using things I already have to make that quirky jewelry all on my own! These zipper heads were in my craft stash, just waiting to have something creative happen to them. Then, I had a lightbulb idea. Turn them into earrings! The process couldn't be simpler.

DIY Zipper Earrings at artsyfartsymama.com #jewelry #earrings

Before I glued the backs onto the zipper heads, I needed to trim them down a little. I just used some jewelry wire cutters/flush cutter tool to cut the sides of the earring posts so that it's a rectangle that fits the zipper head nicely without showing.

Add a small drop of E6000 glue to the earring post, and place on the back of the zipper head. Lay the zipper flat, post side up to dry overnight.

DIY Zipper Earrings at artsyfartsymama.com #jewelry #earrings

Once the glue is set, add some earring backs and your new zipper earrings are good to go! These earrings are so much fun to wear. So, go find that broken purse or coat and turn some matching zipper heads into jewelry that will get compliments every time you wear them!

Saturday, January 4, 2014

No Bake Peanut Butter Bars

Saturday, January 4, 2014

No Bake Peanut Butter Bars

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One treat that always disappears fast at our house is Reese's Peanut Butter Cups (or Trees/Eggs/etc during the holidays). These no bake peanut butter bars are almost close enough to the real thing, and they are SO easy! They make a great treat to take to parties since they are quick to throw together. They are also great to have hidden for you to share (maybe) after the kids go to bed.

No Bake Peanut Butter Bars at artsyfartsymama.com #recipe #easyrecipe

Ingredients:
1/2 cup butter, softened
3/4 cup peanut butter
22 vanilla wafers, crushed (about 3/4 cup)
2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup peanut butter
6 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips

Directions:
  1. Beat butter and peanut butter with mixer until blended.
  2. Add wafer crumbs and mix well.
  3. Gradually beat in powdered sugar.
  4. Press mixture into bottom of a greased (or foil-lined) 8x8 pan. 
  5. Microwave chocolate chips 15 to 30 seconds or until chocolate is melted. Stir in peanut butter and mix well.
  6. Spread chocolate peanut butter mixture over the peanut butter layer.
  7. Refrigerate at least 2 hours. Cut into bars to serve.
Keep peanut butter bars refrigerated. You can also make ahead and freeze up to one month. Thaw in refrigerator before serving.

Friday, January 3, 2014

ScenTrend 2014 and Giveaway

Friday, January 3, 2014

ScenTrend 2014 and Giveaway

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Now that I've got the house cleaned up after the holidays, I needed a new scent to add to my candle warmers. Scentsy's new ScenTrend for 2014 is Simply Nashi Pear, and let me tell you - it's pretty wonderful.

ScenTrend 2014 and Giveaway at artsyfartsymama.com #Scentsy


ScenTrend 2014 and Giveaway at artsyfartsymama.com #Scentsy

In case you aren’t familiar with them already, Scentsy offers a variety of home and personal fragrance products including scented wickless candles and decorative ceramic warmers, which together provide a safer alternative to burning candles. Scentsy warmers use a low-watt light bulb that slowly melt the Scentsy candle bar, filling your home with one of more than 80 distinctive and long-lasting scents.

ScenTrend 2014 and Giveaway at artsyfartsymama.com #Scentsy

ScenTrend makes it easy for people like me who have no idea what works well together when choosing scents. The Simply Nashi Pear smells like a sweet pear mixed with a little apple. It's the perfect balance of sweet and fresh. It smells fantastic all on it's own, but it also mixes well with scents like Apple Press, Enchanted Mist, Luna, and Black Raspberry Vanilla. You can include the Simply Nashi Pear in every room in the house, but mix it up a little with the other coordinating scents.

ScenTrend 2014 and Giveaway at artsyfartsymama.com #Scentsy

When it comes to Scentsy warmers, I have a hard time choosing my favorites! There are a bunch of new warmers out now to suit every personality. My newest warmer is the Coil warmer, which is from the Silhouette Collection. I absolutely love it, and I'm sure my husband appreciates having a warmer in the house that isn't too cutesy.

Every warmer in the collection includes a unique wrap to go around a porcelain Etched Core Warmer. There are 7 different patterns and looks! To see the Silhouette Collection and the rest of the warmers Scentsy has to offer, be sure to check out their Fall/Winter Catalog.

Disclosure: I received the ScenTrend 2014 products from Scentsy as part of this review. All opinions are my own.