Eightymillion

A DIY craft and photography blog. Dogs included.

My Life With Dogs: Our First Snowfall (12-9-12)

We all woke up to the “white stuff” today.  I’m not a fan of Winter, but it’s kinda cool when the seasons first snowfall arrives.  Kinda…
As you can see from the amount of prints in the snow the boys were happy to investigate what arrived through out the night.
House was still ready to hunt for squirrels.
I had to persuade Disco to come outside.  He didn’t want to leave his warm spot on the couch.  
I can blame him.
My early morning drive to work was smooth.  A little slushy, but otherwise no problems.  Of course I pulled over a couple of times to take pictures.
Have you had your first snow fall yet?
Until the next word…

Friday’s Top 10 List 12-7-12 (Stocking Stuffers)

Holiday Decor in Galena, IL (All That’s Vintage)

Have you ever seen such a large pinecone? Makes you wonder how big the tree is that it came from.
With Christmas getting so close this will be my last Top 10 List in which I feature gift ideas.  For the remaining two weeks I’ll be giving you ideas for last minute DIY handmade gifts, holiday recipes (appetizers), wrapping inspiration, and so much more.  No worries, the Top 10 list isn’t going away, I’ll go back to sharing what I find interesting around the web.  It’s been a pleasure to feature so many talented Etsy artists.  I’ve met some wonderful people and picked up a few things for myself along the way.  I love being part of the handmade community and always willing to show my support for other artists.
Plans for the weekend?  In between my work schedule I’ll be baking more holiday treats.  Check back this weekend for the last two recipes and decorating ideas.  Trying something new this year with the traditional sugar cookies.

Enjoy my finds from Etsy.com.  All $25. and under.  I would like several of these myself.

*****
Eco Friendly Wool Dryer Balls from saltairstudio.
Bohemian Headband from BloomDesignStudio.
Vinyl Record Tie Tack from KatieBelleDesign.
Elephant Mini Button Tote Bag from handmadebykep.
Upcycled Burlap and Fabric Coffee Cup Sleeve Set from SandBagsDesigns.
Polka Dot Dog Collar from BowWowCouture.
Mason Jar Drinking Tumbler from PoppyandPearlCo.
Tree of Life Mala Bracelet from BohemianEarthDesigns.
Luggage Tag from RACHELelise.
Toothpick Keeper Key Ring from ClaybyKim.
*****
Until the next word…
~Jennifer

DIY: Inexpensive Holiday Arrangement Of Ornaments

Easy, festive, inexpensive, and takes less than five minutes to put together.  Keep reading!
Have you ever purchased ornaments with the intention of hanging them on the tree, but they stayed in the holiday box year after year?  
Several years ago I found this adorable tube of assorted Christmas balls at Old Navy.  The holiday was over so they only cost me $1.99 (love those clearance bins).  We’ve all made purchases simply off of the “they looked cute” method.  Right?
When I first moved into my house I noticed these swag hooks in various spots in the house.  The first thing that comes to mind when I see them is those plants that hang in a hand knitted holder.  Remember those?  Throughout the years I’ve found uses for those hooks.
Using various lengths of ribbon I strung each of the ornaments.  I wanted the bold colors to pop, so I chose a cream colored ribbon to hang them with. 
And there they hang.  In the corner of my living room.  You could also hang them above a doorway.  Or on the hardware that opens your closet.  I would recommend choosing one that you don’t open a lot, especially if the ornaments are made of glass.  My dogs don’t bother them because they hang so high.  Not sure if they’re cat proof.  They may think your hanging up toys to play with in passing.  
Need a quick gift for someone who just moved into a new house and doesn’t have a lot of holiday decor?  How about someone that is away at college?  The arrangement would be small enough not to take up much room.  Hostess gift?  Giveaway at a holiday craft show?  Please stop me, because I could give you ideas all night.
Okay, one more.  Do you find yourself buying new ornaments every year and then you don’t know what to do with the old ones?  Pass them along to your kids when they move out on their own.
Have fun!  Perhaps I’ll hit the clearance bins again this year.  They would look cute in our shop in Galena, IL.  
Tomorrow I’ll be in the kitchen again.  Baking more goodies for the gift bags.  This time I’ll be adding a little twist to a traditional recipe.  Chocolate?  Of course!  I’ll be posting the recipe here when they’re finished.  Are you baking this year?  
Until the next word…
~Jennifer

DIY Food Gifts: Homemade Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookie Sandwiches (Perfect for Holiday Gift Giving and Cookie Exchanges)

Last night I started my Christmas baking.  It was a perfect day to light the oven due to the on and off rain we received.  Plus it also made my house smell like a chocolate factory.
Skip the gift card this year and give that special person on your list something you know they’ll love.
A homemade gift!
I came up with this combination a few years back during the holidays.  Perhaps it was during my obsession with peanut butter cups.  It’s simple and has only three ingredients.  Enjoy!
 Ingredients:
*(2) 15oz. boxes of Ritz crackers (any generic brand works just fine, Ritz just happen to be on sale)
*Peanut Butter
*(2) .24oz packages of Chocolate Almond Bark
Supplies:

*(3) Cookie sheets.  (2) lined with either wax/parchment paper
*Tongs
*Double Boiler (or microwave safe dish)
*Butter knife
Using the butter knife make sandwiches with the crackers and peanut butter.  I stacked them all on one of the cookie sheets.  After I’m done I placed the cookie sheet in the frig so that they could set a bit.  This helps them from sliding around when we dip them in the melted bark.
I found a couple of vintage double boilers at the thrift store last winter.  Perfect for melting bark.  You can also use the microwave but watch it closely.  I’ve burned a few batches previously using that method. 
When the chocolate is smooth and creamy grab the tongs and dip away.  I find it best to grab the cracker in the center.  That way when the peanut butter hits the chocolate it doesn’t slide around.  Utilizing the two lined cookie sheets I fill one up and then rotate them in the freezer until all the sandwiches have been dipped.
When the chocolate has set I break off the odd pieces around the sandwich.  You’ll come across some of them that the sides weren’t completely covered or a few spots on top that are missing chocolate.  No worries.  A little imperfection adds character to the treats.
The recipe makes 11 dozen, plus 2 in which I ate right away.  They were good!  Perfect combination of sweet and salty.
I have a cookie exchange coming up later this month.  My first one actually.  I’m thinking of taking these.
I’ll have two more holiday recipes to share within the next couple of weeks.  I use to make a large assortment of goodies every year, but nowadays I’m lucky to find the time to make a few different ones.  I’ll be giving them as gifts to my clients.
I’ve also got some DIY recycling tutorials coming up on inexpensive ways to package these sinful little tastes of pleasure.
Be sure to check back soon.
Tomorrow starts another long work week.
Girl needs sleep.
Disclosure:  This isn’t a sponsored post.  The brands that I used were solely decided on by myself and no one else.  
Until the next word…
~Jennifer

Friday’s Top 10 List: 10-19-12

My favorite photo from this week.
Are the weeks just flying by or is it just me?  Halfway through October and it’s getting closer to Christmas.  I have a mini meltdown almost every night about this holiday.  Before my night ends the never ending list of {things to do} goes through my head.  Freaks me out!
Next week I have a day off.  {Clap with me} Off days freak me out as well.  Why?  There’s no schedule, therefore I’m lost.  I like things simple and organized.  Yes, I’m a Virgo.  I’m going to spend my day off with my mom and work on crafts.  I have a lot of restocking to do at the shop in Galena, IL.  Cards, recycled jewelry, and some other oddities that I’m working on.  I’ll be posting more DIY projects on the blog as I complete them. 
*****
Did some browsing through the shops on Etsy.  This one caught my eye.  Yes, I’ll take one of everything!
When the day comes that I get the chance to visit New York City, I will definitely be stopping here for a few things.  Thinking about making a few pieces of clothing.  I’m very picky and the shops here just don’t have what I want.  Putting aside the color, style, and/or the brand, I just want to be comfortable.  That’s all.
  Frames.  The possibilities are endless.
Tonight I’m going to a concert.
My favorite pin this week.  How creative is this?  Not sure this would be good in my house with three dogs running around 24/7.  
My new found addiction.  Breakfast, lunch, and/or dinner.  I had forgotten how good these things are.  Raspberry is my favorite.  How about you?  Although I’m a bit upset that this flavor isn’t offered in the value pack size.  Perhaps I should write the company.  Or better yet, perhaps I should buy some of their stock.  I have a lot invested so far.  I’m also recycling all of the empty boxes for a DIY project that I’ll share with you later.
Add some color to your wardrobe.  These are cool!  What color would you choose?
Oliver Twist asked for more soup.  I would like the whole kettle please!  Paired with a loaf of Panera’s sourdough bread…..YUM!  Definitely on the menu this upcoming week.
An interesting share on the Twitter feed this week.  Photogs will love it.  I did.
I photograph my food a lot.  Mainly for my series, “What’s On My Plate.”  What are your thoughts on this?  Personally, with modern technology today, I thinks it’s a good idea.  Marketing costs aren’t cheap.  Why not work together and spread the word.
*****
Until the next word…
~Jennifer

Friday’s Top 10 List: 8-3-12

Vintage Dog Collars in Galena, IL

The first Friday in August is here.  Where does the time go?  Christmas is getting closer and that freaks me out because I have so many projects that I’m working on.  No worries though I’ll get them done (positive thinking).  Handmade rocks and sure beats receiving a gift card for a store you don’t shop in.  I might even take a leap and bake all those yummy goodies this year.

I’ll be working in the shop in Galena, IL today.  In between customers I take time to photograph items in the shop to share on our social media sites.  I really don’t mind (ha).  I started with the dog collars.  Surprised? 
Enjoy the links and have a great weekend.
*****
The World’s Longest Yardsale is happening right NOW!  My parents have gone a few times and I hope to go someday.  Talk about a pickers dream trip.  
I’m a bit skeptical to put up a large Christmas tree in my house.  Why?  I have three dogs that pee on them outside and I fear they may repeat this inside.  Perhaps I’m just overly worried but I don’t want to take any chances.  That brings me to this tree.  The perfect DIY project for the holidays.  
A brain game.  
The Bark.  It’s one of my favorite magazines.  I’ve been a loyal subscriber for years.  Each issue I look forward to Lee Harrington’s installment of the Chloe Chronicles.  She shares life with her adorable rescue dog.  Which reminds me.  I still need to pick up a copy of her book, Rex and the City.   
I can’t explain in words how EXCITED I am to see this band perform live in five days.  It’s very rare that an international musician comes to my little town.  They are passing through the city between venues so that’s why the show is on a Tuesday night.  It’ll be a struggle with my work schedule, but so WORTH it!  
Check out this table setting.
LOVE these camera crafts.  When I get my first SLR camera I look forward to experimenting with the Bokeh lens kit.

A friend of mine that runs a Wine & Martini Lounge down the street from our Vintage Shop found this video on Vimeo.  It was filmed by a group of friends during a visit to Galena, IL.  Watch and you’ll see that they visited our shop.  Cool.

This topic came up in my Twitter feed last night.  A television show that was discussing a new breed of synthetic drugs that are cheap and dangerous.  Some even causing death.  Very scary that kids are heavily involved in using them.  I had only heard of the bath salts, but there are so many more available and legal.  To The Maximus Foundation is a non profit organization that advocates and educates against synthetic drugs.    I hadn’t realized that the problem was that big.

My favorite kind of pizza.  I will also try it this way.

*****

P.S.  Working on another DIY inspiration project tonight.  SUPER EASY!  And it’s cheap.  Details soon.

Until the next word…
~Jennifer

Chocolate Cures Holiday Madness

Really it does~

The countdown has begun.  I’m running a marathon in an effort to get everything done in time for Christmas.  Are you ready?  Lots of projects to finish. Perhaps I should say lots of projects to start.  I truly believe I work better under pressure.  How about you?
Here’s some tips to help you get everything done and relieve the stress.  Take breaks in between projects.  Have a favorite CD?  Crank it!  Keep your favorite beverage well stocked.  And then there’s chocolate.  It takes away the stress the holidays bring.  A coworker had brought this pan of brownies to a potluck one day and they were so yummy!  If I could only remember her name I would give her full credit.  Here’s what she did.
Prepare a box mix (homemade if you have the time) of brownies.  Pour half the batter in the pan.  Take a Hershey bar and place across the batter in a row just as in the picture below.
Apron from All That’s Vintage in Galena, IL

Pour the remaining batter over the candy bars and bake.  If you really want to take a trip on the wild side you could frost them.  I chose to use powdered sugar.  After they cool place about three on your plate to prevent yourself from making several trips to the kitchen.  A nice scoop of ice cream on the side would top it off.  Repeat if needed if you continue to have signs of stress.  Enjoy:) 
Time to get back to the projects.
Jennifer~

One Thing Leads To Another

The Fixx said it back in 1983.  And now it’s my turn.  As I run around my office in an attempt to get everything ready for the holidays I stumbled upon this picture.  I’m speaking of the one posted above, cute isn’t he?  What I actually found was a stack of these photos all the same size and image.  I had originally attached them to cardstock for a greeting card but later found that I had so many of that card already.  So, what can I create with them? They have been sitting on the “to-do” pile for quite some time.  To throw them away just isn’t an option.
I looked at them everyday for a couple of weeks.  How could I recycle these into something creative?  My muse was clearly sitting on my shoulder as I looked at them.  I believe she was almost laughing at me.  Then it happened.  A childhood *memory* flashed before my eyes.  Then I found myself laughing as well.  The inspiration started to flow like someone tipped over a 10 gallon bucket of water.  And it continues to flow.  They will make an adorable Christmas gift and then they will find their place in one of my Etsy shops.
Have you ever had one idea which then leads to another and another….?  Funny how things work.  So, as I was writing this post the group, The Fixx, came in mind.  Go ahead and click their link above and enjoy the video.
Oh, as for what I’m creating.  You’ll just have to wait and see.  I did give you a couple of clues.  Anyone have a guess?
Have a great day!
Jennifer~

Merry Christmas

The day is finally here. Not only is the day to spend with family, but a day of rest. Or for me, that means “catch up” day. After visiting with my family I will be working (yes working) in my office getting started on all the goals that I want to accomplish for the upcoming new year. I’ve got some new writing assignments that I’m working on for Handmade Spark. And I’m preparing for a grand opening of my new storefront on Meylah.com.

You can see from the picture above that House thought it was necessary to be in the photo. Every year we wrap our doors. A bit of red paper, or you can use a tablecloth, some ribbon, and a bow = a bit of holiday cheer. Miniture candy canes look nice also, but with three dogs they may not last. Although, it would make their breath smell a bit better, eh? The possibilities are endless on how you can decorate.


We also wrapped our front door. Funny how the light shines in the center of it.

Well, everyone enjoy their day! The boys woke up to some presents in their stockings. So now we have several new toys laying around the house. More to step around, but they love it!

~Jennifer