Mindy and Lola

Handmade Miami presents the Craft Carnival!

2011-11-03T11:42:00.000-04:00

Save the date!!!! This weekend!!!

Handmade Miami presents the Craft Carnival!

http://thecraftcarnival.handmademiami.com/

When: Saturday, November 5th, 2011 from noon to 5pm

Where: Miami Elks Lodge
10301 Sunset Drive
Miami, Florida 33173

We’ll have lots of fun for the whole family:

DIY Tables to make and take your own crafts
Games
Raffles
Food
FREE swag bags for the first 100 people
Canned food drive (to benefit Feeding South Florida)
and great Craft Vendors with awesome handmade goodies

DIY Body Scrubs

2011-01-28T18:08:00.005-05:00

These are super easy and super yummy! Here are 3 DIY recipes with ingredients you can grab straight from your pantry.

Brown Sugar & Lemon Body Scrub

- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup salt
- 1 tablespoon of kalamansi or lemon
- 1 tablespoon of virgin coconut oil
- 1 tablespoon of honey

Mix together the brown sugar and salt. Then add in the kalamansi or lemon juice, virgin coconut oil and honey and mix well.

Oatmeal & Brown Sugar Body Scrub

- 3/4 cup Brown Sugar
- 1/2 cup ground oatmeal – Not the instant kind
- 1/4 cup pure honey
- 3/4 to 1 cup of oil – Example: Extra virgin olive, Jojoba, Grapeseed or Sweet Almond oil
- 1/4 teaspoonx Essential or Fragrance oil of choice (like vanilla) – Optional

Mix the brown sugar and oatmeal together in a large bowl. Add the honey and drizzle the oil over the mix. Mix everything together. When your mix is saturated and sinks to the bottom of the bowl and you have oil on top, you’re done. Add your essential oil or fragrance oil if you would like.

Coffee Body Scrub

- 1 cup gluten free oatmeal
- 1/2 cup organic sugar
- 1/2 cup organic coffee grounds – Brewed or fresh
- 1/2 cup raw honey
- 2 Tbsp organic olive oil or grapeseed oil – Other high quality oil like almond, coconut, apricot kernal, or palm will do

Optional ingredients to add

- 1 teaspoon vitamin C crystals
- 2-3 drops vitamin D liquid
- 1-2 capsules vitamin E – Liquid squeezed out
- 1-2 tablespoon raw cacao nibs (adds more grit, antioxidants, and a great smell)
- 1 tsp cinnamon

Place oats (and coffee beans, if grinding fresh) in a food processor and pulse until fine. Add grounds, sugar and vitamin C crystals, and pulse a few times, then add honey and oil, as well as vitamin D drops, and pulse to form a paste. Transfer to a jar and store in the refrigerator. If you’d like, you can scoop out a small amount and keep in the bath, whatever you’ll use that week.

How to use body scrubs: Spread the scrubs on damp skin and gently rub in circular motions. Rinse skin well and pat skin dry.

Instructions and recipes and more information can be found at Beautylishblog

Frances ;0)

DIY Makeup Removers

2011-01-22T18:41:00.004-05:00

Your out of town and forgot to pack your makeup remover, try these easy DIY solutions:

Oil Makeup Remover

- 1 tablespoon canola oil
- 1 tablespoon castor oil
- 1 tablespoon light olive oil

Add the oils into a clean container and mix well. Dip cotton balls or rounds into the oily mixture and remove your makeup on your face. Follow up with your favorite face cleanser and moisturizer.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil Makeup Remover

- Few drops of extra virgin olive oil

Add a few drops of extra virgin olive oil onto your clean hands and rub the oil in circular motions on your face and closed eyes. Follow up with your favorite face cleanser and moisturizer.

Baby Shampoo Makeup Remover

- Baby shampoo

Add a pump or two of baby shampoo into your hands and lather up with water. Gently wipe your face in circular motions and wash off with warm water. If your eye makeup is very heavy, you may want to use a bit of extra virgin olive oil before you wash your face to break up the makeup first.

Milk Makeup Remover

- Few drops of sweet almond oil
- 1 tablespoon of whole milk (organic if possible)

Dab the milk and oil mixture on your face with a cotton ball or round. Then remove the mix with another fresh piece of cotton. Be sure to rinse thoroughly with a face cleanser to remove any trace of milk on your face.

Instructions and recipes and more information can be found at Beautylishblog

Frances ;0)

DIY Hair Treatments

2011-01-15T18:28:00.003-05:00

In just a few minutes, with some ingredients in your kitchen you can make your own hair treatments...

Improve hair resilience and luster

- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons of coconut oil
- 2 tablespoons of sesame oil

Whisk the ingredients together, apply the concoction to dry hair, and wrap a hot moist towel around the hair. Let the mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes and take off the wrap. Work a pump of shampoo into your hair (without wetting your head) and rinse and condition as usual.

Remove build-up product residue

- Room temperature beer (not the light kind)

Wash and rinse your hair with shampoo as normal. Bend over with your head pointing downward and pour the beer over your hair, massaging it into your hair and scalp. Let it sit in your hair for 5 to 10 minutes, rinse it out, and follow up with your normal conditioner.

Moisturizing Conditioner

- 1 avocado, peeledr
- 1 cup of mayonnaise

Mash the avocado flesh and mayonnaise together, apply it to your hair and scalp, and cover your head with a shower cap or plastic wrap. Let the mixture sit on your head for approximitely 20 minutes and shampoo and rinse it out of your hair as usual. If your scalp is very oily, you may want to avoid this recipe since it may make it greasier.

Instructions and recipes and more information can be found at Beautylishblog

Frances ;0)

DIY Glitter Pumps!

2011-01-10T12:41:00.000-05:00

OMG!

You may not kow... But I have a shoe OBESSION!!!!

Take a look at these babies! I am so making them!!!!

Here's the how-to from Pixie in Pumps! And it looks easy peasy!

Don't be suprised if this makes it to one of our Crafternoons for Handmade Miami !!!!

Julie ;)

DIY Bath Salts

2011-01-08T18:08:00.003-05:00

This is a simple DIY Bath Salts recipe. I think I might make some for my sisters as a Valentines gift! These directions make enough bath salts to fill up a 6.25 ounce glass bottle

What you need...

1/2 cup coarse sea salt

2 tablespoons Epsom salt

1-2 drops premium fragrance oil

food coloring, if desired

For the instructions and more tips you can go here to Indie Spotting, where I found the recipe.

Frances ;0)

2010-12-31T23:59:00.003-05:00

Happy New Year!

January's Crafter-noon

2010-12-30T18:01:00.025-05:00

Saturday January 8th is the next Crafter-noon. We are going to treat our selves and make our own customized scrubs and bath bombs. To celebrate the new year I will share some DIY Bath and Body recipes I have come across!

2010-12-25T17:30:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas from our family to yours!

Come check out the new items in the store!!!

2010-12-14T12:59:00.000-05:00

Handmade Miami Holiday Cookie Swap

2010-12-13T17:42:00.001-05:00

Friday the 10th was our Handmade Miami Cookie swap. We made some new friends and ate some great cookies. We even had a few new Handmade Miami-ans join us. There were all kinds of goodies from oatmeal raisin cookies and ginger chewies to chocolate peppermint truffles and peanut butter bars.
I made the peanut butter bars. They were soooooo easy, I made them a few hours before everyone showed up. Here is the recipe, the best part is that they are no bake!

Frances :o)

Grand Re-opening!

2010-11-28T22:22:00.000-05:00

Guess what!!! Our store is re-opened! Come by and check us out!

December Crafter-noon

2010-11-18T14:21:00.001-05:00

Mark your calendars... Hand Made Miami's December crafter-noon, Make your own cookie bags and Holiday Cookie Swap is going to be December 10th!

Meet Jennifer Luz!

2010-11-10T14:54:00.000-05:00

It is our pleasure to introduce the newest member of our family. Jennifer Luz was born on Oct 19th... mommy and baby are doing great...more soon!

Crafter-noon: Freezer Paper T-Shirt Stencils

2010-09-08T11:15:00.000-04:00

Make your own Handmade Miami T-Shirt using the freezer paper stencil method. Bring your own T-Shirt, tank or onesie to stencil This weekend.

We'll have Handmade Miami logos to stencil on our shirts, but bring any other images you want to use! We will send you the address when you RSVP. (Email handmademiami@gmail for the RSVP)

Frances ;o)

Handmade Miami Events!

2010-09-01T11:25:00.000-04:00

In the mood for some crafty fun? Come and join other us for a Crafternoon! Here are the AWSOME events that we have scheduled with the crafty folks over at Handmade Miami! For more info visit the HHM blog, or email us! Hope to see you there!!!

Saturday, September 11th 2pm-4pm

Make Freezer Paper T-Shirt Stencils (address will be emailed after you RSVP)

Saturday, October 9th 2pm-4pm
Making Chocolates at Wendy's Chocolates (17858 South Dixie Highway Miami, FL)

Saturday, November 13th 2pm-4pm
Learn to crochet Granny Squares (address will be emailed after you RSVP)

Friday, December 10th time TBD
Make your own cookie bags and Holiday Cookie Swap address will be emailed after you RSVP)

;)
Julie

Interview with Hollie from Blueberry Shoes

2010-08-24T22:35:00.004-04:00

Here is an interview with one of our favorite local Artists. Hollie from Blueberry shoes

Tell us a little about yourself, your shop and what kinds of things do you make?
Hi there! My name is Hollie May, and I'm a dabbler in all things artsy and crafty! I like the sound of a "Crafter" more, so I usually call myself that. But ultimately I'm an Artist. My specialty is in illustration (black and white) inspired by history, fairy tales and anything else that moves me.
The crafty side of me creates head pieces that make you feel like a woodland nymph, or a feathery princess or a bubbly bright bow'd girly girl! I like to create pieces that emote and have an aura about them. So when my customers put on their accessories, they feel special and powerful.
I'm also a writer, who loves to write poetry, stories and blog. Blogging is one of my favorite things in that it helps others, inspires and satisfies my heart all at the same time.
I'm 25 yrs old, married to a cute Irish Boy and living in South Florida. We are saving up to move to California in about a year! I'm from Canada, born and raised…so I feel I will be more at home in the nature there. Though I will miss the crafting community here in South Florida!

How did you come up with your business name?
Hmm, it was quite instant actually. I knew I wanted to open an Etsy shop and that I wanted my biz name to very much represent me. Growing up in Northern Ontario we picked blueberries as a family, and it ALWAYS made me feel so happy and whole. I'm a major gardening freak, and obsessed with nature-and my ultimate are blueberries. I bought a pair of really cute shoes that we're blueberry blue and I took a picture of them in the grass. It hit me. Blueberry Shoes.

Who or what inspires you?
This could take a while so I'll keep it to the most important things. Above all nature and the idea of nymphs, mermaids, fairies dwelling there in secret. Medieval history. Kate Bush, Tori Amos, Stevie Nicks, David Bowie, the 80's, hippies, longing and sadness, innocence, sarcasm and love.

When / how did you learn?
Most everything I know is self taught. It was just passed down from mom and dad in my genes. I did take an oil painting class, which was a ball, but it wasn't really for me. I love the idea of teaching oneself constantly. So that's what I do.

Can you tell us about your creative process.
I usually know right away when I'm in the mood to MAKE something. I go to my craft area and stare at my closed boxes of materials, etc. Then I think. Then I open them, stare and take out what moves me. I lay out a big blanket on the floor (my favorite way to create) and plug in my glue gun, or thread my needle and just take out ALL my stuff and start making stuff. I'll usually churn out about 5 good pieces that are sellable.

For drawing it's very different. I'll get in a mood of discomfort, sadness and longing. That's when I know I'll draw something great and it will level out my emotions. I always draw by the computer, because that's where my music is. I'll play whatever song feels perfect, on repeat and draw until all the longing is gone. It usually takes about an hour. But it feels like an instant. It's really the perfect example of getting in "the zone".

Why do you 'bother' to make things by hand?
I hate machines. I hate the idea of them. I like classic things. Knowing women before me were making things with their hands, centuries ago, really moves me. It's real, it matters, I just love that.

What's the most important thing you'd like people to know/understand about your work?
That every single thing I make is made from the deepest of my heart. Every piece has an idea, a spirit about it. When it goes to someone else, a piece of me is with them. Everything I make is an extension of my dreams, ideas and vision.

What's the best thing about what you do? And the worst?
The best-seeing other people wearing my work and smiling from head to toe! Nothing in the world compares to that feeling. The worst? Not having the organization or space for crafting that I'd like. All in good time though!

What handmade item is your absolute favorite? And where did you get it?
The quilt I lay out for crafting is thrifted and handmade. It looks almost exactly like the one mom and dad had on their bed when I was very little. It calms me and grounds me when I sit on it and look at it. So I'd have to say that!

What do you do when you're not crafting?
Blog, create treasuries, run my Etsy team, Indie Free Spirits, be a wife, teach the bible voluntarily, thrift, attend crafty events, cook and bake artsy dishes, spend time with friends and family, travel when I can, the list goes on!

Anything else?You can follow me and my work here!Blog- http://mermaidscloset.blogspot.com
Shop- http://blueberryshoes.etsy.com
Twitter- http://twitter.com/blueberryshoes
Facebook- http://www.facebook.com/holliemayartandfashion

Thanks Hollie!
Frances ;o)

work... work... work!

2010-08-24T21:12:00.000-04:00

I just finished the cutest bibs, and onesies for Stitch Rock. I can not wait, this show is going to be awesome! Here are some pictures of some of our lovable stuffies...

Frances ;o)

What’s for Dinner?

2010-08-20T08:31:00.000-04:00

How about Ham & Cheddar in a Loaf? It takes 15 min for prep about 40 minutes in the oven… just think of all of the possibilities: ham, turkey, pepperoni, left over chicken, beef, or ground beef! How awesome! Doesn't this look great? Get all of the ingredients and full recipe here.

Frances ;o)

Interview with designed by Diana

2010-08-19T18:55:00.074-04:00

Here is an interview with one of our talented members and fellow Etsian Diana from designed by Diana. Diana makes awesome retro-inspired aprons, cute wallets and handy pouches.

Designed by Diana pages:
http://www.etsy.com/shop/designedbyDiana
http://designedbydiana.blogspot.com/
http://www.designedbyDiana.com

Tell us a little about yourself, your shop and what kinds of things do you make?

I’m Diana. I have been making things as long as I can remember. My shop started out with handbags, but has morphed into a shop full of retro-inspired aprons and some cute wallets and pouches too. My shop is very colorful and I love the retro and mod aesthetics, so you can see that in the prints I choose too.

Are you a native Miami-ian?

I’m a native Miami-an. I was born and bred here, left to Central Florida for college, but then came back. Miami is and will always be home to me.

Who or what inspires you?

My grandmother is a definite inspiration. She is a seamstress and took classes to learn it all in Cuba. She knows how to make her own patterns and can whip up any dress I can dream up. Her work never looks home-made, it’s more couture. She is definitely my sewing mentor, and I always measure up my work to the standard of hers.

Have you always made 'stuff'?

Ever since I can remember I’ve been making stuff. I remember painting a receiving blanket for my baby brother with Gonzo on it while my mom was pregnant with him. I must have been 5 or 6. I also got really into plastic canvas for a while when I was younger and made tissue box covers and locker magnets. I have to say that my teal and hot pink blowfish tissue box cover rocked! I’d tried tons of other crafts and thought I could figure out sewing, so I did. And that’s my current craft of choice.

When / how did you learn?

I don’t ever remember learning how to sew. I know my mom taught me how to knot off at the beginning and at the end for hand sewing, but other than that I just picked it up. I was surrounded by sewers in my family, so I think it’s just in my genes.

Can you tell us about your creative process.

My creative process usually starts at JoAnn’s early on a Saturday morning. I scour the cotton fabrics for cool and interesting prints that I can make into my goodies. I also get inspired by seeing things online and being mad about mod, the show Mad Men is a total style inspiration.

Why do you 'bother' to make things by hand?

People that aren’t hand makers or crafters tend to ask this a lot. I bother to make things, because I enjoy it. It’s my form of fun and relaxation. I also like the quality of handmade goods. It’s not made in China by a machine and an anonymous factory worker. You can see the love put into handmade items. I bother to spend time making things because I like to and because I want other people to see the values of handmade.

What have you learned about yourself through your work?

I've l

earned that I’m a lot more creative than I give myself credit for. I’ve also learned that I’m meticulous with my work. And most of all, I’ve learned that with practice, your skills will improve.

What handmade item is your absolute favorite? And where did you get it?

I have lots of handmade items, jewelry, hats, purses, but my favorite has to be the clothes that my grandma makes for me. It always fits like a glove and is exactly as I imagined it.

What advice would you give to someone starting a creative business?

Starting a creative business is fun, but you have to treat it like a business. In order to make it successful, you have to put time into it. When you get home from your day job, your creative business is your second job. Just spending one hour a week on your business won’t make your business work. You have to spend time not only making, but promoting, listing, photographing, blogging. But the best thing is at the end of the day, when you do sell something you made with your own hands and the person who buys it truly appreciates it and all the work that went into it, it’s all worth it.

Thank you so much Diana!

Diana will be at PPinkghost’s Mini Market, Saturday from 1pm – 5pm on August 21, 2010. The Pinkghost Mini Markets will be showcasing 8-10 amazing and talented local artists and businesses at the Pinkghost store (1888 Polk St., Hollywood, FL, 33020). So you can some discover different handmade crafts, artists, apparel brands and much more every Saturday. Admission is free.

Frances ;0)

MindyandLola

Were have we been?

2010-08-09T00:02:00.001-04:00

We appologize for being MIA but... we have lots of things going on and blogging had to take a backseat. We will have a new member of the family this October. Julie & I are founding memebers of Handmade Miami, along with Diana form designedbydiana and Vanessa from sophieskeepsakes.
We will also be at Stitch Rock for the 3year in a row! Great things are in store... lots of things to keep us busy for the next few months. We will have the schedule up for the Handmade Miami Crafter-noons as well as all of our future shows.
Frances & Julie ;o)

Pork Chops...

2010-02-19T15:12:00.000-05:00

Yummy... yummy... Pork Chops. I make Pork Chops for my husband every year for Valentines Day. Even if we go out for the traditional Valentine's Day dinner, I still make him pork chops the day after. I buy the thickest Pork Chops I can find. I season them the day before with salt, pepper, garlic powder and onion powder. I pan fry them on a really scoraching hot pan so they get a nice crust, just a few minutes on each side. Then I place them in a 400 degree oven for about 5- 10 minutes.

They are perfect. All they need is a salad or some Au Gratin Potatoes. Check out this recipe from Rachel Ray for the potatoes.

Frances ;o)

I love this dress!

2010-02-17T03:59:00.001-05:00

I love this dress! This is PLATS.
She is one of the many wonderful sellers on Etsy. I love her style, and her awesome hair. She make Plus size clothes for curvy girls. I hate that you cannot get plus sized stylish clothes. Her designs are super fun and made with the curvy girl in mind.

Frances ;o)

Super show special

2010-02-12T03:16:00.000-05:00

Come and join us at Cinema Paradiso on February 13, 2010 from 1-6 PM for an Indie Craft Bazaar.

Saturday, February 13, 2010, 1:00pm - 6:00pm

Cinema Paradiso - 503 SE 6th Street Fort Lauderdale, Fl.

Super Show Special

Mention our blog and get a free hair Clippie with purchase min $10.00

Indie Craft Valentines Bazaar

2010-02-11T03:07:00.006-05:00

Come and join Mindy & Lola at Cinema Paradiso on February 13, 2010 from 1-6 PM for an Indie Craft Bazaar, chock full of handmade, vintage, repurposed, recycled and vegan goods!

Music, arts and crafts, food, beer and prizes! What more could you ask for?! $3 Admission - Includes ticket for a raffle full of handmade prizes! FREE PARKING!!

FIRST 100 GUESTS RECEIVE FREE SWAG BAG FULL OF GOODIES! Come back tomorrow for our super show special.

Wish list...

2010-02-11T02:38:00.002-05:00

These are just a few items from my ever growing wish list.

This is super cute, I love Hello Kitty!

Vampire Picnic Zipper Pouch from kukubee

Yummy soaps from Blushie Bath & Beauty

How sweet is this book, I wish I could learn how to make these...

Valentine’s Day Cocktails…

2010-02-09T14:37:00.000-05:00

Do you want to serve a great drink to your sweetie… or friends this Valentine's Day? Here are a few that will be showing up at our Un-Valentine Party.

Godiva Chocolate MartiniYield: 1 serving
Ingredients:
1 oz. Godiva Liqueur
1 oz. Smirnoff Vodka
Directions:
Assemble the drink.

Strawberry Blonde Martini (The Melting Pot's)

Ingredients:
2 ounces champagne
2 ounces strawberry vodka (Stoli)
1 1/2 ounces pineapple juice
1/2 ounce strawberry daiquiri mix

Directions:

Combine the vodka, daiquiri mix and pineapples juice.

Float the Champagne on the top.

Garnish with strawberry.

Enjoy!

Cranberry Champagne Cocktail

Ingredients:
1-ounce cranberry juice (sweetened)
1 wedge lime
Champagne or sparkling wine
Cranberries (frozen)
Directions
In a chilled Champagne flute add cranberry juice and a squeeze of lime. Top off the glass with Champagne. Garnish with 3 or 4 cranberries.

Sparkling Wine Sangria (Sangria de Cava)
Ingredients:
2 cups well chilled seltzer or sparkling mineral water
1 cup well chilled peach brandy
1 cup superfine sugar
2 (750-ml) bottles well chilled Cava (Spanish sparkling wine)
About 4 cups assorted berries, such as blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries, rinsed and drained, for serving
Directions
Stir the seltzer, brandy, and sugar together in a punch bowl. When the sugar is dissolved, uncork the sparkling wine and pour it gently into the bowl. Float about half the berries in the sangria and use the rest to decorate individual glasses.

Frances ;o)

The Scrunch Belt

2010-02-06T09:30:00.000-05:00

I subscribe to a lot of blogs! And Ruffles and Stuff is my new favorite! This week she has been posting tutorials, and this scrunch belt is so amazing I think I'm going to have to make one for myself!

Check out the tutorial here

Raspberry Truffle Tart Recipe

2010-02-05T13:22:00.000-05:00

This screams Valentine's Day to me... I am not a chocoholic I do however indulge in a little from time to time. Sometimes I just need to eat a snickers bar but this looks so yummy! Find the recipe and instructions for this fabulous Raspberry truffle Tart Recipe here.

Frances ;o)

Dolls by Marca

2010-02-05T09:30:00.000-05:00

As promised, here is another awsome artist I met at IDEX this year! Her name is Margarita Castillo-Bernard. Her amazing dolls just take my breath away! All of her dolls are one of a kinds. And each one has so much personality that its tough to pick a favorite. She lives in Oragon, so if you live up that way keep your eyes open for her, she's at all the local shows! You can also get more info here.

Here is her moon oracle! At only $15 a set, you'll be consulting with them on all your decisions!

Fantasiation

2010-02-02T10:17:00.001-05:00

Hi Guys!

I'm lucky enough that I work for a doll company in my real life. And that means that I get to go to some really AWSOME Trade shows! So this week I will be featuring some of the cool artists I met and some of their most AWSOME work!

Alba's work is amazing! Can you believe she makes the most beautiful Plus Sized BJD's! ( Ball Jointed Dolls, for those of you not in the know...) The beauty's name is Sia'Lorna and she's a time traveler! For more information, more pics, or to buy your own just visit her website here!
http://www.fantasiation.com/

I heart fabric...

2010-02-02T08:56:00.002-05:00

My sister will be in New York next month for work. She will be staying a few days extra to spend time with our brother and do some shopping (insert baby like jealous cry here). Well she will be doing a little fabric shopping while there. I sent her on a mission for some "Kawaii" or Japanese Fabric. I absolutely love them. I love cute, and I am really surprised that I haven't been able to find anyone in Miami that sells them. The closest I have seen is some Hello Kitty print. Ugh, so I have sent her on her search. Here are some you can get online… come drool with me!

Ballet Girls Fabric and Wizard of Oz @ pinkchalkfabrics.com

Beautiful works at Etsy! They offer all kinds of great stuff besides just fabric… clay kits, clay molds, Stickers, Crafting books and more!

Alice in Wonderland Print Bunny Cosmetic Print

Lovely Dolls Print Hello Kitty Print

Frances ;o)

Odd Duck Craft Fair

2010-02-01T23:47:00.000-05:00

The official vendor list is up! We have some awsome new stuff we are working on pictures will be up soon!

Frances ;o)

Strawberries filled with Cream Recipe

2010-01-29T13:41:00.000-05:00

These look absolutely dreamy and so easy! With a bottle of your favorite champagne… yummy! Click here to get the recipe for Strawberries filled with Cream.

Frances ;o)

Legos!

2010-01-28T21:29:00.000-05:00

Lego's + Daughter + Husband = 2 hours of me time!

Bless you Mr. Lego inventor! My husband recently decided to spend a gift card he picked during Christmas on our daughter. He but her the box above. Needless to say everyday this week she has been playing with her Lego's and building a house for her horse. It is so sweet to watch them connect, he was a Lego collector as a small child. Who would have known that this pink bucket and its tiny contents would be such a hit! You can go here and pick one up for your little builders.

Frances ;0)

Oreo Truffles

2010-01-28T01:13:00.000-05:00

Yummy… yummy…
I made these with my daughter and they were great. We brought them to the office as a special treat and made them for her teachers for Christmas. You can find the recipe here from kraft foods.com
My sister loved them so much we made some for her baby shower, but instead of covering them in chocolate I let my niece and daughter cover them in powdered sugar and colored sugar. (The powdered sugar ones were the prettiest but the sugar absorbed the moisture from the truffle and they looked a little wonky after a few hours.) Give these a try they are super duper easy! Valentine's Day is right around the corner, these would make a great little gift... I made at least 3 dozen from one batch. Enough for the teachers, the office and some for the Chocoholics in my house!

Here they are right after we took them out of the fridge.

Here they are being dipped.

Yummy! With sprinkles!

Enjoy!
Frances ;o)

Ruffles are not just for little girls anymore!

2010-01-25T16:58:00.000-05:00

I love the look of these ruffles. Super sexy and super flirty! Exclusively available at Rigby & Peller, the Platinum retro high waisted brief.

Frances ;o)

Beignets…

2010-01-22T14:12:00.000-05:00

So I have been thinking… dreaming of these yummy fluffy pillows for a couple of weeks ever since I saw them on Food Networks Iron Chef America. Well here are 3 different recipes worth a shoot. All of them are from the Food Network, I think I may breakdown and make them this weekend…

This one is from my favorite Food Network star Paula Deen. This is here version, you can find the full recipe here.

This is more of a traditional recipe from Mr. New Orleans himself, Emeril Lagasse. You can find his version here.

And last but not least this is Sandra Lee's version. This is the easiest and quickest of the three, she uses ready to use biscuit dough but it still looks mouth watering. You can find her full recipe here.

Frances ;o)

New year...

2010-01-04T12:57:00.000-05:00

We have a couple of shows coming up and some new items we are working on and sneek pics are coming. We have added a new member to our family... Baby Hailey was born Dec 28th and we are also spending time with our nephews that will be going to Afganistan in February.... so we are taking a small pause... but... Stay tunned...

Happy New Year

2010-01-01T12:53:00.000-05:00

Wishing you all a happy, &

safe New year!

How cute is this...

2009-12-25T12:49:00.000-05:00

Mini Mrs. Claus!

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-25T12:45:00.000-05:00

We would like to wish you a Merry Christmas from Our Family to yours!

Frances & Julie
Mindy and Lola

Candy cane cookies…

2009-12-15T23:01:00.001-05:00

Store bought sugar cookie mix + a couple drops of peppermint essence + red food coloring = a great time and maybe a new tradition!

Indie Craft Bazaar

2009-12-08T22:50:00.001-05:00

Come join us at Cinema Paradiso on December 13, 2009 from 1-6 PM for an Indie Craft Bazaar, chock full of handmade, vintage, repurposed, recycled and vegan goods!

There will be all sorts of cute, unique and quirky goods including jewelry, hand-sewn, crocheted and knitted items, original art, vintage clothing and items, baked goods and other yummy things for non-vegans and vegans alike, paper goods and more!

Music, arts and crafts, food, beer and prizes! What more could you ask for?!

$3 Admission - Includes ticket for an Apple iPod raffle + other great prizes! FREE PARKING!!

FIRST 100 GUESTS RECEIVE FREE SWAG BAG FULL OF GOODIES!

Just in time for holiday shopping! Stop by and say hi!

http://www.getupandcraft.com for more info + sign up for our newsletter and receive an EXTRA ticket into the raffles!

This weekend...

2009-12-05T07:48:00.000-05:00

SHOP LOCAL

Those of you in near broward dont forget Green Saturday is today..... Good music, food, & crafty goodness for your shoping pleasure!

... and for those who want something fun to do with the kiddies check out the Miami Lakes United Methodist Church. Theres gonna be snow, santa photos, games, rock climbing, caroling & a craft b

Chocolate Almond Biscotti

2009-12-02T17:02:00.001-05:00

This another one of those recipes for the cookie swap… yummy! Click here for the complete resipe.

Chocolate Almond Biscotti

Ingredients:

3/4 cup (110 grams) blanched whole almonds, toasted and chopped coarsely

2/3 cup (135 grams) granulated white sugar

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 3/4 cups (225 grams) all-purpose flour

4 ounces (110 grams) semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate, chopped in 1/2 inch (1.25 cm) pieces (can use chocolate chips)

Chocolate Almond Biscotti: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (180 degrees C). Toast almonds for 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned and fragrant. Let cool and then chop coarsely. Set aside.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.

In bowl of your electric mixer (or with a hand mixer), beat the sugar and eggs on high speed until thick, pale, and fluffy (about 5 minutes). (When you slowly raise the beaters the batter will fall back into the bowl in slow ribbons.) At this point beat in the vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder and salt. Add to the egg mixture and beat until combined. Fold in the chopped almonds and chocolate.

Transfer the dough to your parchment lined baking sheet and form into a log, about 12 inches (30 cm) long and 3 1/2 inches (9 cm) wide. You may have to dampen your hands to form the log as the dough is quite sticky. Bake for 25 minutes, or until firm to the touch. Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes.

Reduce oven temperature to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Transfer the log to a cutting board and cut into 3/4 inch (2 cm) slices, on the diagonal. Place the biscotti, cut side down, on the baking sheet. Bake for about 10 minutes, turn slices over, and bake for another 10 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool. Store in an airtight container.

Makes about 16 biscotti.

Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread

2009-12-02T16:25:00.001-05:00

I was looking for a few new cookie recipes for a cookie swap and decided to share some with you… This is the first one that really caught my eye. I love pistachios, so these are the first I'm going to try. I let you know how they turn out. Below is the recipe and the directions or you can go here and print it. Happy baking!

Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread

Ingredients:

2 1/3 cups (300 grams) all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1 cup (2 sticks) (226 grams) unsalted butter, room temperature

2/3 cup (135 grams) granulated white sugar

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1 cup (130 grams) unsalted pistachios, coarsely chopped

1 cup (150 grams) dried cranberries, coarsely chopped

Directions:

In a large bowl whisk the flour with the salt.

In the bowl of your electric mixer (or with a hand mixer), cream the butter until smooth (about 1 - 2 minutes). Add the sugar and beat until smooth and creamy (about 3 minutes). Beat in the vanilla extract. Gently stir in the flour mixture just until incorporated. Fold in the chopped pistachios and dried cranberries. (Make sure that the nuts and cranberries are evenly distributed throughout the dough.)

Divide the dough in half. Place each half of dough on the center of a 14 inch (35 cm) length of parchment or wax paper. Smooth and shape the dough into an evenly shaped rectangle that is about 10 inches (25 cm) long and 2 inches (5 cm) wide. Then thoroughly wrap the shaped logs in the parchment or wax paper, twists the ends of the paper to seal the logs, and place in the refrigerator to chill for at least two hours, or up to three days. (The logs can also be frozen for about two months. If freezing, it is best to defrost the logs in the refrigerator overnight before slicing and baking.)

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (160 degrees C) with the rack in the center of the oven. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Using a thin bladed knife, slice the logs into 1/4 to 1/2 inch (.5 to 1 cm) thick cookies. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches (5 cm) apart. Bake for about 15 - 20 minutes, or until the cookies are just beginning to brown around the edges. Remove from oven and cool on a wire rack.

Makes about 48 shortbread cookies.

New ...

2009-12-02T12:03:00.000-05:00

These are some of the new stuffies we have been working on. What do you think?

HOLIDAY BAZAAR

2009-11-06T14:57:00.000-05:00

The Miami Lakes Holiday Bazaar is tomorrow from 11am to 2pm., @15151 montrose rd (82 ave) @ the comunity center west. The entrance is free and so is the parking, Proceeds benefit the Miami Lakes Adopt-a-Family Thanksgiving feast. Come on out and support your local artitst!!!!!!!!!!

See you there!

Mindyandlola

Is it to early to think turkey?

2009-11-05T13:30:00.000-05:00

This is a cute idea from CraftJr. Its a link for printable Thanksgiving place card holders. There really cute, and you can get some of the older kids involved in planning and setting up for Thanksgiving. They have all kinds of cute crafty ideas for the little ones check them out....
Frances ;o)

MIami Lakes Holiday Bazaar

2009-11-04T09:20:00.000-05:00

We hope to see you at the Miami lakes Holiday Bazaar, there will be plants, vintage Jewry, bake goods, home goods etc... Its from 11:00 am until 2:00pm. Get an early start on your holiday shopping... and help out a great cause. A portion of the profits will go to the Miami Lakes adopt a family Thanksgiving feast.
See you there,
Frances & Julie ;o)

Let's Sew

2009-11-02T21:57:00.000-05:00

Does your little one drive you bananas, wanting to use all of your sewing stuff? Do they want to be just like you … try this? These sewing cards are tailor-made for your toddler. Here is the link… and the instructions…

What you need:
• washable markers or jumbo crayons • paper plates • shoestring or yarn • scissors (adult) What to do:

1. Invite your toddler to use the markers or crayons to decorate the paper plates. She may need you to provide gentle guidance in holding the marker and using it to make marks.

2. Once your child has decorated the plates, use scissors to make holes approximately the size of quarters in the plate.

3. Show your toddler how to lace a shoestring or a piece of yarn (with the ends taped to prevent fraying and provide a grip for your child) through the holes in the plate. As she works, describe what she is doing — the colors of the yarn and the colors on the plate, as well as how the string goes IN and OUT of the holes.

thanks,
Frances ;o)

Like mother, Like daughter...

2009-10-31T12:33:00.000-04:00

Here we are in all our scarry glory!

Birthday...

2009-10-26T10:37:00.000-04:00

Happy birthday to us.... We celebrated our birthday this weekend. We had a great show on Saturday, at the Miami Shores Presbyterian Church Harvest festival. Our booth neighbors were these two lovely ladies who were an older more distinguished versions of our selves, they were even sisters. They were so cute. Thank you all for coming out just to see us!

...

2009-09-28T11:47:00.000-04:00

SOME OF THE STUFF WE HAVE BEEN WORKING ON...

I AM IN LOVE WITH THIS CUPCAKE...

2009-09-28T11:42:00.000-04:00

We are getting ready just a few days until Stitch Rock. We had a great time last year, the music, the cupcakes, and all the great stuff. This is an awsome show!

New items!

2009-07-29T09:47:00.000-04:00

Hi Guys what do you think... We've been busy bee's making all kinds of stuff... You should check out our new line of hair accessories in our Miadu Store! And you can get this one right here...

What do you think? You can get yours here: Miadu.etsy.com

Oooh! and a big hug to my model Evangeli!

Baby Girl thank you!!

Julie

Free Printables!!!!!!!!!!

2009-07-28T21:54:00.000-04:00

Need something for the little ones to do … fast! Here click on the link and go to the nick jr website and print all kinds of things like these Dora & Diego Seaside Postcards, you can find Puzzles, charts, book mark , posters, calendars, All with their favorite characters.

thanks,
frances :o)

New Items!

2009-07-28T10:04:00.000-04:00

Hi Guys!

Come and check out the new earrings we've made!

100% sterling silver and semi precious stones!

You can get yours here: miadu.etsy.com

Enchilada Casserole

2009-07-26T22:21:00.000-04:00

I love mexican food... this is great!

Prep Time: 5 min Total Time: 30 min Makes: 4 servings

What You Need:
· 1 lb. ground beef
· 1/4 cup chopped onions
· 1 can (8 oz.) tomato sauce
· 1/2 cup water
· 2 tsp. chili powder
· 4 corn tortillas
· 1 cup KRAFT Shredded Cheddar Cheese
· 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
· 1/4 cup BREAKSTONE'S or KNUDSEN Sour Cream

Make It:

MICROWAVE meat and onions in 2-qt. microwaveable dish on HIGH 4 to 6 min. or until meat is no longer pink, stirring every 2 min.; drain.
STIR in tomato sauce, water and chili powder. Microwave 5 to 9 min. or until slightly thickened, stirring every 4 min. Transfer to bowl.
PLACE 1 tortilla in same microwaveable dish; top with layers of 1/4 each meat sauce and cheese. Repeat layers 3 times. Microwave 2 to 5 min. or until heated through. Let stand 5 min. Top with tomatoes and sour cream.

Kraft Kitchens Tips
Healthy Living

Save 90 calories, 12 grams of fat and 6 grams of saturated fat per serving by preparing with extra lean ground beef, KRAFT 2% Milk Shredded Reduced Fat Cheddar Cheese and BREAKSTONE'S Reduced Fat or KNUDSEN Light Sour Cream.
Variation Beef and Bean
Reduce amount of meat to 1/2 lb.; Stir in 1 can (16 oz.) fat free refried beans with the tomato sauce.
Skillet Preparation
Cook meat and onions in large skillet on medium-high heat 3 to 5 min. or until meat is no longer pink; drain. Stir in tomato sauce, water and chili powder; cook until heated through. Transfer to bowl. Assemble in skillet as directed. Cover; heat 2 min. or until cheese is melted. Top with sour cream and tomatoes.

thanks ,

frances ;o)

We made a new treasury!

2009-07-24T10:07:00.000-04:00

Thanks Frankcreations for including Melinda the Zombie Princess in your treasury! You can see the treasury here you can visit Francreations store here!

And you can buy Melinda at our Miadu Designs store here!

Thanks!

Julie ;0)

Home-Made Binoculars Craft

2009-07-21T21:49:00.000-04:00

How about this really cute idea… making binoculars out of Toilet Paper Rolls. . Here is the link… and the instructions…

Follow these directions and find out how to make pretend binoculars using bathroom tissue rolls.
Materials Needed:
· 2 Cardboard Toilet Paper Rolls
· Small Piece of Lightweight Cardboard (From a Cereal Box, Etc.)
· Paint
· School Glue
· Scissors
· Instructions:Paint both cardboard toilet paper rolls. Set them aside to dry.
· Cut a piece of lightweight cardboard2" x 6". Paint it and set it aside to dry.
· Once all of the paint is dry, place a line of glue down both long ends of the 2" x 6" piece of cardboard. Set the toilet paper rolls down on the glue, let the glue dry.
· Technically now, your binoculars are done. If you like, you can add some embellishments to your binoculars such as beads, feathers, or sequins. Another item you can add if you like is a strap. Simply tape of glue a piece of yarn or string onto your binoculars so you can wear them around your neck.

thanks,
Frances ;o)

Pizza Calzones

2009-07-19T22:15:00.000-04:00

Who doesn't love pizza? This is a great recipe is great for picky eaters!

Prep Time: 10 min Total Time: 22 min Makes: 4 servings, one calzone each

What You Need
· 1 can (8 oz.) refrigerated crescent dinner rolls
· 1 cup KRAFT Shredded Italian* Mozzarella-Parmesan Cheese Blend
· 1/3 cup marinara sauce
· 16 slices OSCAR MAYER Pepperoni
· 2 Tbsp. KRAFT Grated Parmesan Cheese

Make It
PREHEAT oven to 375°F. Unroll crescent dough. Separate into four rectangles; press perforations together to seal. Place rectangles on lightly floured surface; roll each to 7x5-inch rectangle.
MIX mozzarella cheese blend and sauce; set aside. Place 4 of the pepperoni slices on one of the short sides of each dough rectangle, 1 inch from edge of dough. Spread sauce mixture evenly over pepperoni. Fold dough rectangles crosswise in half; press edges together with fork to seal. Transfer to baking sheet. Sprinkle evenly with Parmesan cheese.
BAKE 12 min. or until golden brown. Cool 5 min. before serving.
TACO BELL® and HOME ORIGINALS® are trademarks owned and licensed by Taco Bell Corp. * Made with quality cheeses crafted in the USA.

Kraft Kitchens Tips
Serving Suggestion
Serve this entrée with a mixed green salad.
Variations
Prepare as directed, using one of the following flavor options: Tex-Mex: Omit Parmesan cheese. Substitute 8 slices OSCAR MAYER Deli Fresh Shaved Smoked Turkey Breast for the pepperoni, KRAFT Shredded Cheddar Cheese for the mozzarella cheese blend and TACO BELL® HOME ORIGINALS® Thick 'N Chunky Salsa for the marinara sauce. Ham-and-Cheddar: Omit marinara sauce. Substitute 8 slices OSCAR MAYER Deli Fresh Shaved Smoked Ham for the pepperoni and KRAFT Shredded Cheddar Cheese for the mozzarella cheese blend. Veggie Lover's: Substitute 1 cup mixed sliced green bell peppers and red onions for the pepperoni.

thanks,

frances ;o)

Ball Catchers

2009-07-14T21:45:00.000-04:00

What a great way to recycle milk jug or detergent bottles. You can turn them into ball catcher for young kids just learning how to catch. . Here is the link… and the instructions…

What you'll need:
· 2 plastic milk cartons or laundry detergent bottles
· Sharp scissors
· Colored electrical tape or "Painters" paint markers
· Ball to play with

How to make it:
1. Wash and let dry the milk cartons well before starting. Note: It may be easier to cut the bottom off of the containers first.
2. Use the sharp scissors to cut the milk carton or detergent bottle. First cut off the bottom, then cut a U shape under the handle. Make sure you don't cut into the handle so you can hold on the ball catch. (see photo)
3. Use the colored electrical tape or "Painters" paint markers to decorate the milk cartons.
4. Have fun playing catch and toss with these fun toys.

thanks,
Frances ;o)

Toaster Waffle Sandwich

2009-07-12T22:10:00.000-04:00

Another super yummy treat... Breakfeast for dinner anyone?

Prep Time: 5 min Total Time: 5 min Makes: 1 serving

What You Need

2 frozen waffles
2 frozen BOCA Meatless Breakfast Links
1 KRAFT 2% Milk Sharp Cheddar Singles
1/4 of a medium apple, thinly sliced
1/2 tsp. cinnamon sugar
1 cup 1% milk
Make It
TOAST waffles as directed on package. Meanwhile, microwave breakfast links as directed on package.
PLACE 2% Milk Singles on 1 of the waffles. Cover with apple, cinnamon sugar and breakfast links; top with remaining waffle. Cut in half.
SERVE with milk.

thanks,

frances ;o)

Rain Sticks that really do sound like rain.

2009-07-07T21:34:00.000-04:00

Looking for a great idea to keep the kids busy… how about these Rain Sticks? I came across this cute craft looking for something to do with my daughter. She had a blast. Here is the link... and the instructions…

Materials: long tubes from gift wrap or paper towel, strips of cardboard, paper, tape, seeds or rice

Cut out two 4 inch circles out of the paper (trace a cereal bowl for the shape). Put one over the end of the tube, and fold the sides down, and tape around the tube. Make sure it is well taped on and use sturdy paper so that your Rain Stick won't leak!
Cut cardboard strips are narrower than the tube (about 1 inch wide should work). Fold them back and forth like a fan. Put the strips into the tube.

The first one should fall to the bottom of the tube. Keep adding strips until they reach the top of the tube.
Pour in 1/4 cup of rice and 2 tbsp of seeds (dried peas, popcorn, or lentils) into the tube.
Tape the other circle over the open end of the tube and tape in place.
Decorate the tube with markers, paints or by gluing on paper or ribbon.

Decorating the sticks can be the most fun. The kids can decorate the sticks before or after they have filled them. Just remember that paper circles will be taped part way down the sides if the kids want to do the decorating first.

thanks,

Frances ;o)

Kids Can Cook: Cookies & Creme Pudding Pops

2009-07-05T22:04:00.000-04:00

These inexpensive treats make for big smiles. Your kids will love the step-by-step directions, perfect for little hands. YUMMY!!!!!!!!!!!!

What You Need:
1 pkg. (3.9 oz.) Jell-O Chocolate Instant Pudding
2 cups cold milk
6 Oreo Cookies
1⁄2 cup thawed Cool Whip Whipped Topping
Make It
1. BEAT pudding mix and milk in large bowl with whisk 2 min.
2. PLACE cookies in resealable plastic bag; seal bag. Use rolling pin to crush cookies.
3. ADD cookies and Cool Whip to pudding; stir just until blended.
4. SPOON into 9 small paper or plastic cups.
5. INSERT wooden pop stick or plastic spoon into each for handle. Freeze 5 hours or until firm.
PREP: 10 min. plus freezing

thanks,

frances ;o)

Etsy shop love...

2009-06-11T10:49:00.000-04:00

How is this for a whole lotta fun! A perfect gift for the steam punk lover in your life, young or just young at heart; Gun is plastic painted, aged, and treated with a glossy sealant for your destroying pleasure. Delight in seeing the faces of your foes go pale with fear and the knowledge of their certain doom when you whip out The Demoralizer. Small enough to stash away if the need arises yet powerful enough to take down an entire fleet of airship pirates...well...maybe a couple airship pirates. Also check out the Sassafrass 3000! Set your sights on your enemies and then disintegrate them to a fine dust with the Sassy's precision laser system. A converted water gun made of plastic. It has been painted, aged, and sealed with a gloss. The gun cannot be used as a water gun. The trigger has been treated so that it cannot be pulled as this could expose the original plastic on the trigger.
Click here for more info RiverWraith.

Bread!!!!!!!!!

2009-06-10T10:58:00.000-04:00

I love bread… So I tried a crazy recipe yesterday for a no knead recipe. Well it didn’t quite come out the way I wanted. So today I am trying something else a new recipe from Tyler Florence from the Food Network. The recipe is below; I will let you know how it turns out. Cross your fingers!!!!!!!
Frances ;o)

Wonderful White Bread
Ingredients
1 cup milk
3 tablespoons butter
1 package (1 tablespoon) rapid-rising dry yeast
2 tablespoons sugar or honey
3 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons salt
2 egg whites, divided and slightly beaten
1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Directions
In a small saucepan, heat the milk with butter over low heat just until the butter melts. Remove from heat and add to the bowl of a standing mixer fitted with a dough hook. Proof the yeast by adding it to the warm milk and butter. Add the sugar and stir gently to dissolve. Let stand 3 minutes until foam appears. This indicates the yeast is active. Turn mixer on low and gradually add the flour. When the dough starts to come together, increase the speed to medium and add the salt and 1 egg white. Stop the machine periodically to scrape the dough off the hook. Mix until the dough is no longer sticky, about 10 minutes.

Turn the dough onto the work surface and knead for a minute or so by hand. Knead by folding the dough over itself and pushing out with the heel of your hands, not down. Rotate the dough and repeat. The dough is properly kneaded when you can pull it and it stretches without breaking. Form the dough into a round and place in an oiled bowl, turn to coat the entire ball with oil. Cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let rise over a gas pilot light on the stovetop or in another warm place until doubled in size, about 45 minutes. Test the dough by pressing 2 fingers into it. If indents remain, the dough is adequately risen.

Once the dough is doubled and domed, turn it out onto the counter. The act of turning out the dough naturally deflates the gas, so there is no need to aggressively punch it down. Handle the dough gently, overworking the gluten at this point will produce a dense loaf that is difficult to shape. *To form a loaf, pat the dough into a rectangle, fold the long sides to the middle then fold under the ends. Pinch the seams closed and place in a greased 9 by 5-inch loaf pan, seam side down. Make sure the dough touches all sides of the pan. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise a second time for 20 minutes or until the top of the dough is nearly level with the top of the loaf pan. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F, place a large pan on the bottom rack of the oven. Bring 3 cups water to a boil on the stove. Pour the hot water into the preheated pan to create a steam bath for the bread. This will make a crisp crust.

Slash dough down the middle of the loaf with a sharp knife to allow the steam to escape during baking. Brush the top with remaining beaten egg white and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Bake the bread for 30 to 40 minutes until crust is golden and internal temperature reads 195 degrees F when checked with an instant read thermometer. The bottom of the loaf should sound hollow when tapped. Immediately remove the bread from the pan and cool completely on a rack.
* Variation: To make Cinnamon-Raisin Swirl Bread: after the first rise, press the dough out to a rectangle, sprinkle surface with cinnamon and raisins to cover. Roll up like a jellyroll, pinch the seams closed and continue as directed in the recipe.

...

2009-06-10T10:41:00.000-04:00

We had a great time at FSC. Julie was a little shooked at all of the costumes, but it was fun. Pictures will be up soon. We are working on some new items that will also be up on the shop soon.
Frances ;o)

Florida Supercon Don't Miss out!

2009-06-05T10:47:00.000-04:00

MindyandLola will be at Florida Supercon this weekend. Come by and say hi!

SOUTH FLORIDA'S COMIC BOOK, ANIME, ANIMATION, COSPLAY, FANTASY& VIDEO GAME FESTIVAL
WHEN : JUNE 5, 6 & 7 2009
WHERE: THE DOUBLETREE MIAMI MARTAIRPORT CONVENTION CENTER
711 NW 72ND AVE., MIAMI, FL. 33126

FRI, JUNE 5TH FROM 3:30PM - 2:00AM
SAT, JUNE 6TH FROM 11:00AM - 3:00AM
SUN, JUNE 7TH FROM 1 1:00AM - 6:00PM

Custom WOW characters...

2009-06-04T12:01:00.000-04:00

Julie says:

Hey you WOW players out there... send me a photo of your character and maybe I will make you a custom doll!!! email photos to mindyandlola@yahoo.com

Julie ;0)

Etsy shop Love...

2009-06-04T10:46:00.000-04:00

YAVA Glass specializes in taking recycled beverage bottles with screen-printed labels and converting them into decorative glassware. They make great gifts for Father’s Day, for groom’s men or any special occasion. Check them out here!

Etsy shop love...

2009-05-29T05:09:00.000-04:00

Sweet Stella is a delightfully fun birdie who would love to perch around your neck. Shaped out of clay and painted with bright, beautiful colors, with silver legs and a branch to perch on. The pendant is just right at 1-1/4" tall. The silver background is about 3/4" wide, but Stella is 1-1/8" from beak to tail. She swings on a sterling 16" triple-rope chain. To view more of Stella’s friends click here…

Frances ;o)

GREEK PASTA SALAD WITH FETA AND CHICKEN

2009-05-26T04:43:00.000-04:00

Try this refreshing salad any night of the week, and the leftovers make a great lunch!

Ingredients

12 ounces ditalini or other pasta
1/2 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and ground black pepper
2 cups cooked cubed chicken (about 1 pound)
1 green bell pepper, seeded and diced
1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

Directions
Cook pasta according to package directions.
In a small bowl, whisk together broth, oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, thyme, salt and pepper to taste. Add diced chicken, green pepper, and mint.
Drain pasta and add to bowl with dressing and chicken. Toss to combine. Cover with plastic and refrigerate until ready to serve. Top with feta cheese just before serving.

For this and other Robin Miller recipes visit Food Network.

Frances ;o)

Etsy shop love...

2009-05-21T05:00:00.000-04:00

Lemon Tree Studio, is the perfect place to find all sorts of tags stickers and tags that will add whimsy to all your gift packages. You can go to her shop here or check out her blog its full of great stuff http://mylilyeden.blogspot.com/.

Frances ;o)

Try these great drinks at you next party!

2009-05-19T04:12:00.000-04:00

Strawberry White Wine Sangria

You can prepare this drink the night before a big party or special occasion so the flavors have plenty of time to marry. After you've poured the last drop of sangria, reserve the wine-soaked strawberries and serve them with fresh whipped cream for dessert. Two treats from one recipe! Serving: 8

Ingredients:
2 pints fresh strawberries, washed and stemmed

2 750 ml. bottles dry white wine, chilled

1/2 cup sugar

3 cups soda water, chilled

Directions

Combine strawberries, wine and sugar and stir until the sugar is dissolved. Refrigerate mixture overnight. When ready to serve, add soda water to strawberry mixture and pour into ice-filled glasses.

Frozen Cherry Tomato Bloody Mary’s

This ice-cold cocktail is always a winner -- until the ice melts and dilutes the drink. You can solve the problem by freezing cherry tomatoes and using them instead of ice cubes. The drink stays chilled, and the tomatoes intensify the zesty flavor. Serving: 4 to 6

Ingredients

· 3 pints cherry tomatoes
· 2 cups tomato juice
· 3 tablespoons prepared horseradish
· 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
· 1 teaspoon celery seed
· 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (1 large lime)
· 2 tablespoons pickled jalapenos
· 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
· 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper
· 1 cup chilled vodka (optional)

Garnish options

· 6 baby carrots, cleaned and trimmed
· 6 radishes, trimmed, with leafy parts intact
· 6 cherry tomatoes
· 6 celery stalks
· 6 asparagus stalks, blanched for 2 minutes
· 6 jumbo shrimp, boiled and peeled
· 6 lime wedges

Directions:

Stem the cherry tomatoes, rinse in cold water and return to the rigid plastic container or net sack they came in (if purchased from a market). Freeze for at least 3 hours and up to 4 days.

In a large container, combine 2 pints of the frozen tomatoes with the tomato juice, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, celery seed, lime juice, jalapenos, salt and pepper. In several batches, pulse in a blender, just until chunky. Divide the remaining frozen tomatoes among glass tumblers, add 2 to 3 tablespoons of vodka to each, if desired, and fill each with 1 cup of the Bloody Mary mixture; garnish with any of the assorted garnishes.

Frances ;o)

Rainy-day ideas...

2009-05-14T17:15:00.000-04:00

Family Fun . com has some great rainy ideas check them out... For lots of fun filled hours with these rainy-day activities. Whether your kids are outside puddle-hopping or inside keeping warm and cozy, you'll find craft ideas they're sure to love.

Bean Mosaics

Chopstick Hair Ornaments

Custom Stickers

Dangly Doorway Decor

Funny Faces

Puddle Boat

Rain Painting

Stencil a Spring Umbrella

Water Painting

Frances ;0)

Etsy shop love...

2009-05-14T04:56:00.000-04:00

Magpiedesignz makes great mommy jewelry, inspirational necklaces that you can stamp with your favorite phrase or word. There jewelry is custom and personalized to fit any style! They individually hand stamp each letter, which makes each piece unique and give the pieces distinction and charm. If you want a complete custom, unique and personal gift for yourself or anyone else, this is the jewelry for you. To check out more click here and go to magpiedesignz’s shop.

Frances ;o)

2009-05-12T09:39:00.000-04:00

Come visit us at the Florida Super Con

June 5-7

The Doubletree Miami Mart Airport Convention Center

For more info click here

M&L

PASTA WITH TOMATO AND PEAS

2009-05-12T04:03:00.000-04:00

Supper yummy Pasta w/ Tomato and Peas

This would make a great fast & light Dinner any night of the week. click here to go to Food network and get more recipes from Giada De Laurentiis.

Ingredients
1 pound linguine
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
3 shallots, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 carrot, diced
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
5 tablespoons tomato paste
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1 1/2 cups frozen peas, thawed
1/4 cup grated Parmesan
1/4 cup grated Romano

Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the pasta and cook until tender but still firm to the bite, stirring occasionally, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving 2 cups of the pasta water.
Meanwhile, heat the oil in a large nonstick frying pan over medium heat. Add the shallots, garlic, carrots, salt, and pepper. Cook until tender, about 8 minutes. Add the tomato paste and 1/2 cup of the hot pasta water. Stir to melt the tomato paste and create a sauce, adding more pasta water if necessary. Stir in the oregano, thyme, and parsley. Gently fold in the cooked pasta, peas, and the cheeses, adding more reserved pasta water if necessary. Transfer to a platter and serve immediately.

Frances ;o)

Etsy shop love...

2009-05-07T04:50:00.000-04:00

Send your Mom (or Dad) some handmade love. Glademade’s card has an adorable baby octopus is loving it's mother(or father) in the bright water, and says "I love U" inside on a white thought bubble. The cut paper design was stitched on red cardstock. Its supper cute! To check it out or more like it you can go here to her shop.

Frances ;o)

Mothers Day tips and Ideas...

2009-05-05T04:33:00.000-04:00

Make Mom feel special on Mother's Day; show her you think she's the best! For some great recipes and crafts you can do with the kiddies go here to family fun.com. they even have some printable cards!

You can get Mother's Day Brunches ideas fit for a Queen like:

Cinnamon-Apple Pancake

Deviled Egg Boats

Egg in a Nest

Egg Pinwheels

French Toast Waffles

Royal Ham and Eggs

Frances ;o)

SUPER NACHOS

2009-05-05T03:54:00.000-04:00

Celebrate Cinco de mayo by making theses yummy Nachos!

Here is the entire recipe or you can visit food network and get the recipe from Rachel Ray and check out more Cinco de Mayo Favorites!

Ingredients

2 bags of corn tortilla chips in 2 colors or different flavors, such as blue corn, red corn, yellow corn, lime flavored, chili flavored or black bean chips -- pick 2 favorites

Pico de Gallo Salsa:

4 vine ripe tomatoes, seeded and chopped
1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped, for medium to hot heat level
1 small white onion, chopped
1/4 cup, 2 handfuls, cilantro leaves, finely chopped -- substitute parsley if cilantro is not to your liking
Salt

Beef and Beans Topping:

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 pound ground sirloin
2 cloves garlic, chopped
1 small onion, chopped
1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and chopped
1 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 teaspoons dark chili powder
1 1/2 ground cumin, half a palmful
2 teaspoons to 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper sauce, giving you medium to hot heat level
1 can black beans, 15 ounces, drained

Cheese Sauce:

2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
3/4 pound pepper jack cheese, shredded, about 2 1/2 cups

Additional toppings to choose from, optional:

Sour cream
Chopped scallions
Chopped black olives
Diced pimento
Sliced avocado, dressed with lemon juice
Hot pepper sauces

Directions

Arrange a mixture of 2 varieties of corn chips on a very large platter or use your broiler pan as a platter.
Combine salsa ingredients in a bowl and set aside for flavors to marry. Heat a medium nonstick skillet over medium high heat. Add oil, garlic, onion and peppers to the pan and saute 2 minutes, then add meat and crumble with wooden spoon. Season meat with salt, chili powder, cumin and cayenne pepper sauce. Cook meat 5 minutes, then stir in beans and reduce heat to low. In a medium sauce pot, melt butter and add flour to it. Cook flour and butter 1 to 2 minutes over moderate heat, then whisk in milk. When milk comes to a bubble, stir in cheese with a wooden spoon. Remove cheese sauce from the heat.
Pour cheese sauce evenly over the massive spread of chips and top evenly with beef and beans and the pico de gallo. SUPER NACHOS! Serve immediately as is or, garnish with your choice of extra toppings from the toppings list.

Frances ;o)

Happy 5 de Mayo!!!

2009-05-05T03:46:00.000-04:00

Rember to drink responsibly!

M&L ;o)

Etsy shop love...

2009-04-30T17:15:00.000-04:00

DebbyAremDesigns's

DebbieAremDesigns makes these a very cool and funky pencil box made recycled circuit boards these pencil boxes are her newest product just released in the fall of 2008!
Also, beginning in March 2009, several of her green office products are on permanent exhibit at Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry as part of their Smart Home 2009 Exhibit! On the desk in the "Home Office" room is one of her pencil boxes, a circuit board clock, a mouse pad and several clipboards - all made from recycled circuit boards. Click here to view more. Frances ;o)

Its Petunia...

2009-04-30T15:14:00.000-04:00

Hi guys! Let me introduce you to Petunia!

She is a special little girl that dreams of being a ballerina! But that will never be, you see one of her legs and feet is so much bigger than the other that she is not as graceful as she wishes she was. She would make someone a great friend because she is GREAT at keeping secretes!

She is 8" tall, hand sculpted and one of a kind! She is made of polymer clay, with chenille hair, and pretty cotton dress.

Available now in our Miadu store, only $15.00 just click here

M&L

YUMMY!!!!!!!!!!! Mexican Lasagna

2009-04-27T15:24:00.001-04:00

Supper yummy and super easy!
I don’t have a specific recipe but this one is pretty close to what I use. The great thing about this lasagna is that it is so versatile you can change it around and it will still be great. You can add all of your family’s favorites and really make it your own. I hope you guys try it out and let me know how you like it!

My Tips: I use a bag of tortillas (flour or corn) hard or soft whatever is on sale, I prefer ground turkey but you can use beef (use what you have around), I also use the Tostitos brand Queso and a bag of frozen green, yellow, red pepper stir fry mix. Since most of the ingredients are already cooked all you need is to leave it in the oven 20 minutes or so to melt the cheese. You can make extra ground turkey on the weekend, and make the lasagna during the week.

Mexican Lasagna:
· 3-4 flour tortillas
· Salsa
· Cheddar cheese, grated
· Refried beans
· Black beans
· Frozen sweet corn, thawed
· Tomatoes, diced
· Black olives, sliced
· Green onions, sliced
· Fresh cilantro, chopped
· Guacamole
Turkey Filling:
· 1 lb lean ground turkey
· 1 tsp olive oil
· 1 small sweet yellow onion, diced
· 3 cloves of garlic, minced
· 1 tsp paprika
· 1 tsp chili powder
· 1 tsp dried oregano
· 1 tsp ground cumin
· 1 tsp garlic powder
· Sea salt and fresh cracked pepper, to taste
For step by step directions you can go here. This blog has great pictures for every step.

Frances ;o)

2009-04-27T12:01:00.000-04:00

How cool is this idea? I ran across this on the crookedbarins.net website! It looks so beautiful and cool! I think I want to make one for my patio! I have some broken umbrellas hanging around! This is a prefect Super Green DIY project! Here's the link

Julie :)

Spring is here, what do you do with your old coat?

2009-04-27T05:30:00.000-04:00

DIY: Recycle Your Winter Wear - Turn Your Coat into Diaper Covers

How awsome is this! Here’s what you can do with your outgrown, or worn out, winter coats… turn them into diaper covers! For all the intructions and details go here!

Frances ;o)

DIY: Belt to Bondage Anklets

2009-04-24T11:16:00.000-04:00

Ok, I'm really in love... DIY and Shoes enough said! Check out how you can make your own at clutch 22

Julie :)

)

Etsy shop love...

2009-04-23T06:10:00.000-04:00

Heavensentcrafts

Her items are made with recycled finds that is what makes these items one of a kind and unique. This would be a great gift as a sketchbook, scrapbook, journal or autograph book. What a great fun way to express yourself!
Check her out here. Frances ;o)

Happy Earth Day!!!!!

2009-04-22T07:46:00.000-04:00

Remeber guys we can all do a small part to keep our mother Earth clean. So turn off lights, turn off the water when you brush your teeth, turn off the computer when you go to bed, paper vs. plastic. We can all pich in!

;o) frances & julie

DIY: Hemp Pendant Lamps

2009-04-20T11:54:00.000-04:00

Hey guys its 4:20 today!!! (cough, cough) And I thought that you might like a super cool DIY you can make with Hemp Twine! Check out these Super Cool Hemp Pendant Lamps! The gracious people over at the Crafty Nest Have a tutorial that walks you thru the steps! I think I just might have to make some!!! Here's the link.

Julie :)

My new MANTRA...

2009-04-20T11:36:00.000-04:00

“Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful”

William Morris.

Yogurt cups = Disposible Sippy cups

2009-04-20T05:23:00.000-04:00

How great is this!

Disposable sippy cups made out of plastic yogurt containers. All you need to do is cut a small x on the top of the lid and pop a straw in it. Done. Even if you don’t have kids, you might want to keep some on hand for little visitors. Your floors will thank you for it. Blogged about here on Zakka Life.

Frances ;o)

Come to Earth Fest 2009!

2009-04-17T17:17:00.000-04:00

Hey Guys! don't forget all the Earth Day activities going on around town this weekend! We'll be at EarthFest 2009, April 19th , 2009 Crandon Park - Key Biscayne Fl

Hope to see you there!!!

Julie & Frances!!!

( and if you come by and mention the blog, there just might be something FREE in it for you!!!)

Business cards...

2009-04-17T15:46:00.000-04:00

Hi Guys,

We are ordering our business cards for the first time... Like real business cards! Not ones we printed out can you believe it! Let us know what you think! Too much pink??

Front

Back

Thanks! Julie

DIY: Martin Margiela Sandal Booties

2009-04-17T11:02:00.000-04:00

I cam across this on the Mundochica website! Its in Spanish, so sorry for all you non Spanish speakers but its a totally AWESOME website! You can check it out here. Its all about cool products and fashion!

We they led us to clutch22 and this amazing DIY! Aren't these booties Awesome! Maybe I'll have to go thrifting for boots to cut up, I can't even think about cutting up my old fav's!!! Here's the link to the original post!

See ya!

Julie :)

Etsy shop love

2009-04-16T11:45:00.000-04:00

Burrobranch’s shop.

These are absolutely stunning! A series of vases, cake stands and bowls. Click here to go to Burrobranch's shop.

Mindy and Lola

Handmade Miami presents the Craft Carnival!

DIY Body Scrubs

DIY Makeup Removers

DIY Hair Treatments

DIY Glitter Pumps!

DIY Bath Salts

January's Crafter-noon

Come check out the new items in the store!!!

Handmade Miami Holiday Cookie Swap

Grand Re-opening!

December Crafter-noon

Meet Jennifer Luz!

Crafter-noon: Freezer Paper T-Shirt Stencils

Handmade Miami Events!

Interview with Hollie from Blueberry Shoes

work... work... work!

What’s for Dinner?

Interview with designed by Diana

Were have we been?

Pork Chops...

I love this dress!

Super show special

Indie Craft Valentines Bazaar

Wish list...

Valentine’s Day Cocktails…

The Scrunch Belt

Raspberry Truffle Tart Recipe

Dolls by Marca

Fantasiation

I heart fabric...

Odd Duck Craft Fair

Strawberries filled with Cream Recipe

Legos!

Oreo Truffles

Ruffles are not just for little girls anymore!

Beignets…

New year...

Happy New Year

How cute is this...

Merry Christmas!

Candy cane cookies…

Indie Craft Bazaar

This weekend...

Chocolate Almond Biscotti

This another one of those recipes for the cookie swap… yummy! Click here for the complete resipe.

Chocolate Almond Biscotti

Ingredients:

Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread

New ...

***HOLIDAY BAZAAR***

Is it to early to think turkey?

MIami Lakes Holiday Bazaar

Let's Sew

Like mother, Like daughter...

Birthday...

...

New items!

Free Printables!!!!!!!!!!

New Items!

Enchilada Casserole

We made a new treasury!

Home-Made Binoculars Craft

Pizza Calzones

Ball Catchers

Toaster Waffle Sandwich

Rain Sticks that really do sound like rain.

Kids Can Cook: Cookies & Creme Pudding Pops

Etsy shop love...

Bread!!!!!!!!!

...

Florida Supercon Don't Miss out!

Custom WOW characters...

Etsy shop Love...

Etsy shop love...

GREEK PASTA SALAD WITH FETA AND CHICKEN

Etsy shop love...

Try these great drinks at you next party!

Rainy-day ideas...

Etsy shop love...

HOLIDAY BAZAAR