REUPHOLSTERED BOAT

Today finally felt like a summer day with the hot sun and blue sky and of course the old boat sitting on my drive way helped to.  The boat and I aren't really very good friends, it's a love - hate relationship. My husband grew up with this beast, it was his parents first vehicle (islanders), so it's no spring chicken. Anyway,  for sure this was my first BIG reupholstering job. My husband figures out the pattern and how to put it together and all I do is sew and maybe curse, once or twice (or more). Have a look.

Before (duh)

After

RAINY DAY FUN - LEGO COOKIES

With all the rainy weather, the kids and I busted out the mixer and made some cookies. My daughter caught a glimpse of these over my shoulder and was ready to bake. I let the kids do all the decorating so I made the icing a spreadable consistence and we used regular M & Ms as the mini's were no where to be found. Here is the link for you to make some rainy day fun.

http://tastykitchen.com/recipes/desserts/lego-cookies/

FRESH FLOWER FOR RAINY SKIES

It has been raining and raining and raining even indoors I feel soggy. Everything looks lush and beautiful from my window but I could use some time outdoors! I came across more of my flower pictures and I thought, I'd share. If you too are feeling soggy, I hope these help you make it through the next few rainy days!

CHILLY PAWS

If you love your pet, you will flip for this! I know many of you think I'm crazy talking about Christmas but here is another one for the list. My dog loves to burrow, he digs his way under the covers and blankets on the couch, this is going to be an awesome Christmas for him. If you are looking for a stellar gift for someone that's hard to buy for - well spoil their pet instead.

http://www.etsy.com/shop/rendachs?ref=ss_profile





This is my little burrowing pooch.

PEANUT BUTTER SHEET CAKE

If you have no self control don't even read this. This is the kind of cake that no one would know existed if left alone for a few hours. If you are weak, avert your eyes and pretend you never read the title. If you think you can handle it - here it is.

Peanut Butter Sheet Cake

2 cups all purpose flour
2 cups sugar
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 cups water
3/4 cup butter or margarine
1/2 cup chunky peanut butter
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 eggs
1/2 cup buttermilk
1 tsp vanilla extract

GLAZE:

2/3 cup sugar
1/3 cup evaporated milk
1 tbsp butter
1/3 cup peanut butter
1/3 cup miniature marshmallows
1/2 tsp vanilla extract

In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking soda and salt; set aside. In a saucepan, bring water and butter to a boil; stir in peanut butter and oil until blended. Add to dry ingredients; mix well. Combine eggs, buttermilk and vanilla; add to peanut butter mixture. Mix well.

Pour into a greased 15 X 10 in baking pan. Bake at 350 degrees F for 16-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the centre comes out clean.

Meanwhile, combine sugar, milk and butter in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly; cook and stir for 2 minutes. Remove from the heat; stir in the peanut butter, marshmallows and vanilla until marshmallows are melted. Spoon over warm cake and carefully spread over the top. Cool completely.

CHANGES

Here are the changes I made. I used 1/4 cup peanut butter instead of vegetable oil. I used smooth peanut butter not chunky. I used 3 large marshmallows for the 1/3 cup miniature and I doubled the sauce. I let the cake cool before adding the sauce. The sauce will thicken somewhat,  I let it cool a bit but poured the sauce over when still warm.

To print the original recipe

http://allrecipes.com/recipe/peanut-butter-sheet-cake-2/detail.aspx

JELLYBEAN CAKE

We had many things to celebrate this past weekend while my parents were visiting; my daughter's and father's birthdays, my parents anniversary and an early Father's Day. I have eaten and baked more than enough!

For my daughters Birthday cake we were inspired by jellybeans and the bright colours they come in. Here are pictures of her cake.

COOL GIFT

It's true, I'm one of those people that shop early for Christmas and I just found the most awesome, one of a kind, gift! It comes in different sizes and colours so their is one for everyone on your list. My favourite is the mini's because they are perfect for carrying your Leaf'n Lily Jewellery! Take a look if your interested.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/39415116/mini-candy-pink-zippie-with-black-felt

LEAF'N LILY NEWS


Leaf'n Lily is going to be adding jewellery that incorporates new and vintage/upcycled beads to the Etsy shop this summer so keep your eyes peeled.

http://www.etsy.com/shop/LeafnLily

EYE POPPING BEAUTIES

Here is a sneak peek at the new lampwork beads I have for creating, excuse me while I wipe the drool.  Is there a bead you can't live without, let me know so I can create something fabulous for you.

leafnlily@yahoo.com

LOVE YOUR PLANET

A little late but here are two of my favourite planet happy items, not to mention Canadian Companies.

The first is a floor cleaner. It comes in all different types of cleaners (bathroom, all-purpose...) for what ever reason the floor cleaner seems to be the hard one to get. I purchased my at Planet Organic in Edmonton some time ago but recently spotted it at London Drugs and Superstore! Here is what it looks like.

You purchase the bottle full of cleaner and then the little container is the refill. You attach it to the lid and add tap water, yes, tap water. Here is their website if you are interested in checking it out.

http://www.iqclean.com/

Here is an interesting article.

http://www.wetaskiwintimes.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=2850021


This next product is for taking snacks to work, school or play. They also have bigger ones for bulk food or larger items. They are tougher than they looks and super easy to clean.

The are called Moukisac. Brilliant. I purchased my at Earth General Store in Edmonton. I'm sure you can find them at your local Organic store too, if not, here is the link to their web page.

http://www.moukisac.com/index.php?id=32