One Fell Swoop

Homemade Crème Brulee

2012-02-17T10:11:00.001-05:00

So for my birthday I got a new toy…a TORCH! I was super excited and so my friend Tanya came over last Sunday and we made Crème Brulee. It was SO good! Here’s the recipe for you all to try: (PS: Having someone take pictures while you are working is SO handy…thank you Tanya!)

What you need:

- 4 4-oz. Ramekins

- 1 Cup Heavy Cream

- 2 Tablespoons Sugar

- 2 Extra Large or Jumbo Egg Yolks

- 1/2 Teaspoon Vanilla Extract

- 1/3 Cup Sugar

1. Preheat oven to 300 degrees. Prepare some boiling water.

2. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cream and 2 tablespoons sugar. Cook, stirring occasionally until small bubbles appear around the edges of the pan, 5-6 minutes. Set aside.

3. In a bowl, beat egg yolks and vanilla until smooth and light.

4. Pout hot cream mixture into egg yolks, a little at a time, beating continuously until well blended. Strain mixture through a fine sieve into a bowl. Divide mixture among four 4oz. ramekins.

(I used four 6 oz. ramekins instead of the 4 oz. and it worked well also)

5. Arrange ramekins in a baking pan and place on middle shelf of the preheated oven. Fill pan with boiling water to halfway up sides of the ramekins.

6. Over pan loosely with aluminum foil. Bake until custard just set, about 25 minutes.

7. Chill for 2-3 hours in the refrigerator.

8. Sprinkle remaining sugar evenly over the top of cooled custards. (about 4 tsp. per ramekin)

9. With a cooking torch, move the fame continuously over the surface of the ramekins.

10. Continue in a circular motion until sugar melts and becomes golden brown and bubbly.

11. Serve immediately surrounded with fresh berries if desired.

ENJOY!!!

Image credit belongs to One Fell Swoop

Artsy Thursday: What I made…

2012-02-09T16:50:00.001-05:00

Here are some of the DIY things I made for the party…click on the image or link for the inspiration!

Pom-Poms

I liked the pointed cut better so it looks more like the dahlia.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BANNER

I made this banner on my own form this inspiration…but you can print from this website!

CAKE BANNER

This isn’t the exact same one I used (I couldn’t find it), but I think I like these better.

CUPCAKE FLAGS

I made these myself using scrap paper and striped paper straws, click the link for printable ones.

MUSTACHE STRAWS

I just printed several of the black mustache, attached them to some stripped paper straws!

I bought the strapped from an online Etsy shop called: Sweet Bungalow

What we did…

2012-02-08T08:00:00.000-05:00

I think some of the best party games are the ones where everyone gets involved…here are some of the games we played during the party that I would recommend to anyone!

PICTIONARY

We used a white board instead of the notepads, that way it was easier to see for everyone…and saved a tree or two :) We had lot’s of laughs with this one especially.

CATCH PHRASE

If you have never played this game, you need to get it! It has been a hit every since I heard about it a few years ago. The goal is to get your team to guess the word or phrase on the screen. You have to describe it without saying any part of the phrase on the screen. A real challenge especially since you are timed.

CHARADES

We didn’t get any pictures of this, but we just used the Pictionary cards. We had two teams, the person acting would pick out a Pictionary card, the opposite team would yell out a color, and the person acting would have to act out what is on their card. I wish we had video of this…hilarious!

HOPE YOU GOT A FEW IDEAS FOR YOUR NEXT PARTY!

Image credit belongs to One Fell Swoop

Tasty Tuesday: Homemade Pain de Campagne artisan bread

2012-02-07T08:05:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago I mentioned that my friend and I went to a bread baking workshop. We had such a great time! Here a few pictures from our experience! Defiantly wouldn’t mind going again :) You can also see the recipe we used at the bottom of this post.

Please note: this bread can take about two days and you will need a scale of some sort, baking stone, cast iron, and spray bottle.

My loaf resting

Proud mama of a bread loaf :)

Tanya scoring her loaf

Tanya placing her loaf in a hot oven

All the loafs of the group

And here is mine all done and so good!!!

Images owned by One Fell Swoop

Night before…

Pâte Fermentée (pre ferment)

2.5 oz. all-purpose flour
2.5 oz. bread flour
0.1 oz. salt
0.03 oz. instant yeast
3-4 oz. water

Stir together flour, salt, and yeast.
Add 3 oz. water until forms a coarse ball, adding additional water if needed.
Knead 4-6 minutes.
Oil a bowl, put dough in, ferment (rise) 1 hour @ room temperature.
Remove from bowl, knead lightly, cover and ferment in fridge overnight.
Next day bring to room temperature before using (at least 1 hour before).

Day of…

Pain de Campagne

8 oz. Pâte Fermentée (above)
4 oz. unbleached bread flour
0.75 oz. whole wheat or rye flour
0.1 oz. salt
0.05 oz. instant yeast
3 oz. lukewarm water (90-100F)

Remove Pâte Fermentée from the fridge 1 hour before preparing the dough. Cut into 10 small pieces, wrap with a towel and let sit for 1 hour to take off the chill.
Stir together the flours, salt, yeast, and Pâte Fermentée. Add the water, stirring until everything comes together in a coarse ball. Add a few drops of additional water, if need be, together any loose flour into the ball. The dough should be soft and pliable.
Transfer dough to floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until dough is soft and pliable, tacky but not sticky. The dough should pass the windowpane test (can stretch about 3 inches where light shines through). Transfer the dough to an oiled bowl and cover.
Ferment at room temperature for 2 hours, or until dough has doubled in size.
Carefully remove dough from the bowl onto a floured surface. Shape dough and transfer to a lined bread pan in a towel.
Set it rest for 1 hour, or until dough is 1 1/2 times it’s original size.
Prepare oven for hearth baking. Place a baking stone on the upper rack and a cast iron skillet on the lower rack. Heat oven to 500 degrees for 1 hour.
Dust the peel with cornmeal or semolina. Gently transfer the loaf onto the peel. Score with a lame or sharp knife and slide the loaf onto the stone. To steam the oven, immediately pour 1 cup of warm water into the cast iron skillet and close the door. After 30 seconds, spray the oven walls with water. Repeat 3 times at 30 second intervals.
Lower the oven setting to 450 degrees and continue baking for 10 minutes. Rotate loaf 180 degrees and continue to bake 10-15 more minutes. Bread is done when it registers at 200 degrees in the center and sounds hollow when thumped.
Transfer to a cooling rack and let cool for 40 minutes before eating.

Enjoy! Recipe from Fancy & Delicious Bakery

Tasty Tuesday: What we ate…

2012-02-07T08:00:00.000-05:00

Look at my pretty dessert table! I was super excited about it…it was like my baby! :) Click on the links for inspirations and recipes…if there is no link it is one of my own recipes. Enjoy!

BTW it was all VERY good!

Textured Red Velvet Cake w/ Cream Cheese Frosting

Berry Fruit Cups

Ombre - Carrot Cake

Cake Pops

Yellow Butter Cupcakes

Lemon Poppy seed Cake

Rainbow Jell-O

And of course pretty soda :)

Image credit belongs to One Fell Swoop

a la Mode Monday: What I wore…

2012-02-06T08:00:00.000-05:00

Wow, busy few weeks here in my life…hope you were able to relax a bit on your side…I didn’t get to share much of my birthday plans as I wanted to, but I will share them now! :) Let me know if you have any questions…click on the images for the inspirations!

My sister-in-law, Alena and I

Outfit: Top: Macy’s & Skirt: Banana Republic

I did end up buying the polka-dot sweater, but in grey & white from JC Penny. Although I did not like how it looked with the outfit so I ended up returning it, and stayed with traditional color blocking.

My cousin Ilona & I

Make-Up: I wasn’t able to find a good picture of my make-up, but it did look a lot like the inspiration…although with all the cooking all day, and being tired…it wore off LOL :)

Hair: I did my style a little different…I did two little French braids down the side, teased the top, and messy bun on the bottom. I also added a few rhinestone bobby pins.

I also asked the ladies to wear something colorful…so we had some nice pictures :)

Group hug!

Image credit belongs to One Fell Swoop

a la Mode Monday: BIRTHDAY WEEK!!!

2012-01-23T21:06:00.001-05:00

So this Friday is my 24th Birthday…woot, woot! So I thought I’d share some things I’m preparing for the birthday party. The theme of the party is colorful and fun. Literally, the more colors and patterns the better! :) So here is the outfit inspiration for the day along with hair and make-up…what do you think?

Outfit

Isn’t it adorable! I will be making a few changes though. I will wear a bright pink skirt, either this or a gray polka-dot sweater, and a different colored dress shirt…possibly teal?

Hair

Only change here is I will do the braid on both sides

Make-Up

fearmystyle:

countingsleep:

idoubledareyoutoclickhere:

(via pinkglitterglam, jessyroseg)

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Since everything else is so busy…I will be doing simple and light make up :)

Click on images for credit

Luscious Locks Friday: Pretty Bun

2012-01-20T08:00:00.000-05:00

I have been wearing my hair like this for the past few days. I absolute love that it is up and out of my face, but still looks beautiful without a regular ponytail or bun.

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Artsy Thursday: Magnetic Chalkboard

2012-01-19T08:00:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I shared several chalkboard ideas for the home. Here is a Magnetic Chalkboard DIY I wanted to share with you. Click here for the DIY. I hope to put this on my Project List.

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Welcome Home Wednesday: Chalkboard Paint

2012-01-18T08:00:00.000-05:00

If I had my own home I think I might just go chalk paint crazy. Check out these chalk paint ideas for around the house. Of course there are so many more. You can click here for more ideas.

A To-Do Wall

Calendar for the Office

Coasters

Mugs

Placemats

Table Runner

A Refrigerator!!!

Menu Wall

Tea or Spice Containers

Quote/Inspiration Wall

Click on images for credit

Tasty Tuesday: Homemade Bread

2012-01-17T08:00:00.002-05:00

Guess what I’m doing Saturday?!?! My friend and I are going to a bread making class! We are actually going to bake in a stone oven. I am super excited to do this. I have always wanted to learn how to bake bread of any kind. My grandmother bakes great bread, but I have never had a chance to learn from her. So at least I may be able to learn something from this class. Until then here are a few bread recipes. Does anyone bake bread? Do you have any tips? I’ll try to take pictures and share with you all :)

Various Oven Baked & Machine

Challah Bread

See links for credit

a la Mode: <3 For the love of Stripes! <3

2012-01-16T08:00:00.000-05:00

I told you my love for color blocking a little while back, another one of the style favorites is STRIPES!!! I know they have been around for a while, but would love to share some of the looks I came across on Pinterest. (Click on the images to see credit)

And of course stripes with color blocking :)

And lastly some stripes in art…one photography and another in ink & paint.

All images found via Pinterest

Luscious Locks Friday: Knot Your Average Pony

2012-01-13T13:29:00.001-05:00

This is SO cute, and looks super easy!

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FYI…I just tried it on my hair..if you have short layers it doesn’t work that well.

Artsy Thursday: Birthday Party DIYs

2012-01-12T08:00:00.000-05:00

So my birthday I coming up at the end of this month, and I have to start planning! So are here a few DIY ideas I found on Pinterest…I will try to show the projects while I do them! :) I’m super excited for it! :) Get ready to birthday party!

Pom-Pom Cupcakes – maybe red velvet??

Mustache Straws – Ola!

Colorful Pom-Poms

Paper Garlands

Pretty Cake Bunting

And of course a gorgeous dessert table to bring it all together :)

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Luscious Locks Friday: Head Scarves Revisited

2012-01-06T08:00:00.000-05:00

Back in October I shared a way to tie your head scarf with all the pretty scarves you have at home right here. So while my sister was here in town, back in November, she put her hair up in a head scarf and was gorgeous! My sister is so beautiful! :) Love you Tina!

Photo credits to go My sister Tina & Dad :)

The Blessing of a Storm

2012-01-05T22:11:00.000-05:00

Today at our youth service I said this poem. It touched me very closely the first time a read it and even does now. I hope it inspires you all to push yourself to continue serving God with all you have, because he NEVER gave up on you.

The Blessings of a Storm

By David Massey

I did not know His love before,

The way I know it now.

I could not see my need for Him,

My pride would not allow.

I had it all, without a care,

The “self-sufficient lie”.

My path was smooth, my sea was still,

And not a cloud was in my sky.

I thought I knew His love for me,

I thought I’d seen His grace.

I thought I did not need to grow,

I thought I’d found my place.

But soon my way grew rough and dark,

And storm clouds quickly rolled.

The waves began to rock my ship,

And my anchor would not hold.

The ship that I had built myself

Was made of foolish pride.

It fell apart and left me bare,

With nowhere left to hide.

I had no strength, nor faith to

Face the trials that lay ahead.

So I simply prayed to Him,

And bowed my weary head.

His loving arms enveloped me,

And then He helped me stand.

He said, “You still must face this storm,

But I will hold your hand.”

So through the dark and lonely night,

He guided me through the pain.

I could not see the light of day,

Or when the storm might wane.

Yet through the aches and endless tears,

My faith began to grow.

I could not see it at the time,

But my light began to glow.

I saw God’s love in a brand new light,

His grace and mercy too.

For only when all self was gone,

Could Jesus’ love shine through.

It was not easy in the storm,

I sometimes questioned, “Why?”

At time I’d thought, “I can’t go on”,

Then I would hurt, and doubt, and cry.

But Jesus never left my side,

He guided me each day.

Through the pain and strife, the fire and flood,

He helped me all the way.

Now I see, as never before,

How great His love can be.

How in my weakness, He is strong;

How Jesus cares for me!

He worked it all out for my good,

Although the way was rough.

He only sent what I could bear,

And then he cried, “Enough!”

He raised His hand and said, “Be still”;

He made the storm clouds cease.

He opened up the gates of Joy,

And flooded me with peace

I see His face, now clearer still,

And I felt His presence strong.

I found a new, his faithfulness;

He never did me wrong.

Now I know more storms will come,

But only for my good.

For pain and tear have helped me grow,

As nothing else ever could.

I still have so much more to learn,

As Jesus works in me.

If in the storm I’ll love Him more,

Then that is where I want to be.

Artsy Thursday: 3D Monogram

2012-01-05T11:49:00.001-05:00

I’ve had this project I my list for so long, and IDK why it took that long…the total time for this project is about 10 minutes! That’s it! And looks great! :)

So on our wedding cake, the topper was our monogram; d B d

photo credit: Yuriy Manchik Photographers

I had originally ordered this monogram from an Etsy shop called Plexicutz, but I think they went out of business (couldn’t find them). But there are several other ones you can choose from here.

Here are the things you will need:

-Your monogram

- Shadow box to fit your monogram

- Xacto knife w/ blade

- Cutting pad

- Foam tape

- Black permanent marker

Directions:

1. Cut off the pegs of your monogram. I did this by using the Xacto knife to create a cut, and then eventually it would snap off. Careful not to cut the back part of the monogram; it will show!

2. Cut the foam tape into thin pieces and stack to create your desired height. Create several stacks of foam tape per letter. This will create more support when it is hanging.

I used a six stack for the main letter “B” and a 3 stack for the smaller “D”’s and overlapped them. If you have any of the tape showing use the black permanent marker to cover it up.

3. I felt the shadow box needed something more. For our wedding our favors were heart shaped key chains. I took three of these key chains, took off the key chair part, added just one layer of foam tape and used them around the monogram.

photo credit: Yuriy Manchik Photographers

And there you have it!

It will be hung on my gallery wall (coming soon). Feel free to get creative and use things you have memories of or things you would like to keep safe. Enjoy!

Photo credit belongs to me unless credited otherwise.

Welcome Home Wednesday: Cream & Sugar in a Carton

2012-01-04T08:00:00.000-05:00

I recently got this sugar bowl from Pier 1 and I love it! Too bad they were out of the Creamer. And guess what…they are only $5!!! I’ll try to check back sometime soon again for the Creamer.

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I actually came across this set while browsing on Pinterest. Click here to check out some more!

Tasty Tuesday: Kaytucky Chicken

2012-01-03T06:00:00.000-05:00

A lot of the new recipes I make my husband like about 50%…but this one he loves a lot.

He asks for it often actually. So I though I would share it with you…

Ingredients:

4 chicken fillets
4 frozen puff pastry sheets
4 oz. cream cheese
few rashes of bacon
flat-leaf parsley
1 spring onion
1 large egg
pepper
salt

Directions:

Cook the bacon and set aside to cool down; then crumble.

Chop a spring onion.

And finely chopped a small handful of flat-leaf parsley.

Add the spring onions, parsley, crumbled up bacon and a good pinch of pepper to 4 oz. firm cream cheese.

Mix it all up. Adding a little garlic, chili pepper and/or grated cheese also tastes great! Just go wild! Think of fun combinations.

Make a fairly deep cut in each chicken fillet. And spread 1/4 of the cream mixture in there.

If your puff pastry sheets are fairly small, combine two for each chicken fillet, and flattened them a little with my dough pin.

Until you end up with puff pastry looking like this.

Place the chicken on top of the puff pastry, with the cream cheese side down. Season the chicken with a generous amount of salt and pepper.

Beat a large egg, and brush a little on the edges of the puff pastry.

Just fold them until you end up with small packages. The egg will function as a glue. Lightly brush the top of the puff pastry with the egg as well.

Pop them in a preheated oven, and bake at 400F for 30 to 35 minutes and ENJOY!

Photos & recipe credit

a la Mode Monday: Glitter!!!

2012-01-02T09:00:00.000-05:00

I got pretty glitter flats! :) I have already worn them for Christmas and New years, but just got around to sharing with you. :) They were only $13.99 at JCP! Such a steal!

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Here are a few other glitter shoes I wouldn’t mind wearing!

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If you are up for a DIY; check out these cute flats…you can do it with heels too!

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Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T16:45:00.001-05:00

Welcome 2012!!! Hope you all had a wonderful ring into the New Year. We spent it with friends and had lots of fun. I was wondering if you all had resolutions for this year? Do you believe in resolutions?

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I personally love setting resolutions for myself, but decided to do something different from what I originally wanted. I was hoping to set the usual resolutions: get healthy & work on opening up my business (interior design). But I decided to work on something more spiritual; something that will have value when I come to the gates of heaven. Galatians 5:22-23 says:

“The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.”

This my New Year’s resolution…to learn what each of things are and to attain then for my life.

Love
Joy
Peace
Patience
Kindness
Goodness
Faithfulness
Gentleness
Self-Control

Scripture also says in Matthew 6:33-34:

“Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today.”

I hope to seek for God and His righteousness, and I know with that He will set all my paths straight in all areas of my life. Please share your resolutions! I would love to hear! :) PS: My last year’s resolution was to make sushi…and I DID IT! :) God bless you all and let’s have a great year; walk strong! –Dina

Artsy Thursday: Button Monogram

2011-12-29T17:16:00.001-05:00

I would like to share a project I did a few months back. I found the idea here on Pinterest, and thought it would be a great idea for my future children’s rooms. But back in October we were invited to my Cousin’s daughter’s 2nd birthday, but instead of buying something I wanted to make something personal and decided to make the button monogram.

What you’ll need:

- Frame w/ desired opening – I had an 8x10 opening in an 16x20 frame.

- 1 piece of 8.5x11 (or larger if needed) cardstock in desired color – I used white, but you can get creative here

- Variety of buttons – I used pink & purple, but you can do a mix of colors also.

- Tack glue

How to:

1. In Microsoft Word, type in the letter you would like to monogram. I used the letter “M” for Melissa. Then find the font you like; I used Lucinda Handwriting because I thought it was feminine but still simple. Then make the size large enough to fill a whole 8.5x11 page; for Lucinda Handwriting I used 550pt font.

2. Create an outline of the font. You can do this by selecting the letter then using the outline/shadow tool on the tool bar. Choose the one with the white fill.

Once you have is selected go back to the same toolbar and take away the shadow.

Then make the outline a lighter gray color to save ink & less visible when framed.

So there you have your letter.

3. Print out your letter on the piece of cardstock.

4. Start gluing!!! (Sorry I don’t have pictures) Start gluing using the tack glue with the larger buttons on the bottom and go smaller at the top. Make sure to cover white spots and any of the letter outline.

5. Let the tack glue dry overnight & frame the next day!!! and TA-DA!

Images owned & credited to Dina Belous

Hallelujah, Light Has Come

2011-12-27T14:29:00.001-05:00

Our Girl’s Bible Study sang “Hallelujah, Light Has Come” by BarlowGirl for Christmas.

I’m the 2nd one from the left.

Tasty Tuesday: Holiday Eats

2011-12-27T13:41:00.001-05:00

Hello everyone! Hope everyone had a great Christmas break; if yours was actually a break. Mine wasn’t so much. Probably the most busy! I thought I would share some of the things I made for this holiday season. (Click on the image for the recipe/inspiration.) Would you like to share what you made this season?? Please attach a link in the comments or email me! :)

Veggie Bar – I made a veggie bar using glasses I made at home. Then I bought little dessert cups to put in the dressing along with your choice of veggies! I will try to find a pic to share with you. :)

Cinnamon Sugar Pull-Apart Bread - I posted this recipe last week here on the blog and saw it on Julia’s Blog a little before that. I also sprinkled some powdered sugar and cinnamon on top.

Птичье молоко (“Bird’s Milk”) – This is a Russian dessert that is a combination of pudding and Jell-O. Instead of a glass dish I put these in individual dessert cups and served them with mandarins and raspberries. By itself the dessert is too sweet for me so the fruits cut the sweetness with some tartness.

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I didn’t make anything below, but this was the dessert table at my cousin’s 17th birthday party. Everything was so good AND pretty! BTW her party theme was PEACOCK! Was so nice!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T09:40:00.001-05:00

Merry Christmas to all my readers!

God bless you and have a great day!

From our house, enjoy…live, love, laugh!

Tasty Tuesday: Cinnamon Sugar Pull Apart Bread

2011-12-20T14:58:00.001-05:00

I recently came across this recipe on my friend Julia’s blog Picture Party. It all looked so good I decided to try it out myself. The dough is currently in the fridge waiting to be baked tomorrow morning for our Bible Study Christmas party! Mmm…

The original recipe is from Joy the Baker; you can read the recipe here also.

Photo credits go to Julia of Yuriy Manchik Photographers

I’m Back!!!

2011-12-20T14:36:00.002-05:00

Hello everyone! Hope everyone has been doing well! :) I would like to greatly apologize for the long break; I didn’t expect it to go on so long, but from family flying in, to Thanksgiving, to traveling to South Carolina, and now Christmas coming up and New Years…AHHH! Can someone hire me a personal assistant? :) But I hope to get back on track this week and into the New Year.

So this December 1st, One Fell Swoop celebrated it’s first birthday…

Happy Birthday 1st birthday to me! :)

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So I would like to hear my reader’s opinions…please let me know!!! All your input and requests help me a lot! What do you like? What do you not like? Do you like the daily posts? What would you like to see more of? Let me know if you have any suggestions or post requests. Maybe you have some questions you would like me to cover? Thanks so much! Love you all!

Sorry!

2011-12-07T16:21:00.001-05:00

I am so sorry for the lack of posts. I had family in town, then I sold my laptop, and was waiting for my new one to come in. Now I finally have it in my hands. Just need to get it all settled in the new one. :) One Fell Swoop should be up and running by next week!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T11:22:00.001-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!!! I just wanted to send out a bit thank you to God, my family, friends, & readers. Thank you to God for everything You have given…the good & the hard…I know that it is something He is teaching me and will help me grow in life. To my family who is always there for me and loves me continually. To my friends to make me smile and take adventures with me in life. And to my readers who continue to read my blog; this blog started about a year ago and I am continually growing and changing in my writing and content, but you are all there and help me grow!

I hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Cook (healthy), Eat (in portions), & Laugh (Lots)! God bless you all!

-Dina

Little break...

2011-11-14T20:28:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone...sorry for the little break...it will probably last though out the month because the family came into town. If I have a chance I will blog, otherwise I will be back in December. Stay creative!!! :)

Welcome Home Wednesday: Christmas Wreaths

2011-11-09T09:51:00.001-05:00

Christmas is coming! Time to start brainstorming a new wreath! Here are a few of my favorite new wreath idea for this year. Which one do you like? Any of them you would make?

click on image for credit

Welcome Home Wednesday: Dreamy Closets

2011-11-02T09:19:00.002-04:00

One day, one day…I have have one of these dreamy closets. I don’t think I have enough clothes to fill it up, but at least it will be organized and simplified. Please share…what would your dream closet look like? Mine would be color coded and organized by piece: section for pants, skirts, tops, etc.…What would yours include?? Rotating shoe closet? or something else?

click on images for credit

Tasty Tuesday: Slow Cooker Chili

2011-11-01T17:20:00.002-04:00

I made this Chili for the second time this weekend for a tailgate party. It is SO good…I’m not a bit fan of spicy food, but you like it a little more spicy add some hot peppers or more chili powder. I even had some tortillas and fries to make nachos or chili fries if anyone wanted. Enjoy!!!

INGREDIENTS

1 pound ground beef
3/4 cup diced onion
3/4 cup diced celery
3/4 cup diced green bell pepper
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 (10.75 ounce) cans tomato puree
1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans with liquid
1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained
1 (15 ounce) can cannellini beans with liquid
1/2 tablespoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
1 teaspoon salt
3/4 teaspoon dried basil
3/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/8 teaspoon hot pepper sauce

DIRECTIONS

Place the beef in a skillet over medium heat, and cook until evenly brown. Drain grease.
Place the beef in a slow cooker, and mix in onion, celery, green bell pepper, garlic, tomato puree, kidney beans, and cannellini beans. Season with chili powder, parsley, salt, basil, oregano, black pepper, and hot pepper sauce.
Cover, and cook 8 hours on Low.

credit & image unknown

a la Mode Monday: Colored Tights

2011-10-31T19:10:00.001-04:00

So today I bought my first pair of colored tights. I wasn’t sure what I should wear them with, but figured I would get them anyway. I got magenta tights that are about the color below, and looking at the other images seems like the colored tights are best worn with neutrals or small accents of color. Although there is an image below with purple tights and a yellow skirt; except I don’t have a colored skirt at the time. What do you think? Have you worn colored tights? With what??

Here are a few other colors I like!!!!

all images found on Pinterest

Tasty Tuesday: Butternut Squash Soup with Apple & Bacon

2011-10-25T10:33:00.001-04:00

I made this soup yesterday and it was very good. My sister-in-law suggested sprinkling some croutons in there for a bit of a crunch, and it turned out very good! Enjoy!

INGREDIENTS

8 slices bacon, cut crosswise into 1/4-inch strips
2-1/2 lb. butternut squash (about 1 medium), peeled, seeded, and cut int 1/2-inch dice (to yield about 6 cups)
1 small Granny Smith or other tart-sweet apple, peeled, cored, and cut into 1/2-inch dice (to yield about 1 cup)
1-1/2 Tbs. finely chopped fresh sage leaves
1 tsp. kosher salt
1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
4 cups homemade or low-salt chicken or vegetable broth

DIRECTIONS

In a 5 quart or larger pot set over medium heat, cook the bacon, stirring occasionally, until crisp and golden, 8 to 10 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels.
Increase heat to medium high. Add the squash to the pot with the bacon fat and cook until lightly browned, 4 to 6 minutes (resist the urge to stir it too often or it won’t brown). Stir in the apple, sage, salt, and pepper and cook for about 4 minutes (you’ll see more browning occur on the bottom of the pot than on the vegetables). Add the broth, scraping up any browned bits in the pot with a wooden spoon. Bring to a boil over high heat, reduce the heat to maintain a simmer, and cook until the squash and apples are very soft, 6 to 8 minutes. Remove from the heat and let cool somewhat.
Add about half the bacon to the soup and purée, using a stand or immersion blender (you’ll need to work in batches if using a stand blender). Taste and add more salt and pepper if needed. Reheat the soup and garnish each serving with the remaining bacon.
CREDIT

Artsy Thursday: Felt Headband

2011-10-20T11:28:00.001-04:00

Last week my sister-in-law, Alena, and I created this head band for her daughter Sophia.

It’s SO easy and SO cute! You can find the DIY right here.

We made the flower a little bit bigger than in looks in the DIY, and then Alena added the additional brown flower and button for a little bling! :) You can probably do this with other fabrics also!

Welcome Home Wednesday: My Church Home…literally…

2011-10-19T15:43:00.003-04:00

So my all time life dream is to one day buy a beautiful abandoned church or firehouse and transform it into my dream home…and this church to home renovation in Australia is making me what it more!!! It’s actually for sale for $1,100,000 if anyone would like to donate it! :)

Please enjoy and dream with me…of this gorgeous place I would love to call home.

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Tasty Tuesday: No Bake Raspberry Lemon Cheesecake

2011-10-18T13:16:00.001-04:00

I made this quick and simple dessert a little while back for my Bible Study girl. This dessert is SO quick and easy. The only recommendation I have is to use less lemon; it came out a little too lemony for myself and some of the girl. But you can also make this dessert with strawberries, blueberries, & pretty much any fruit. This recipe was taken from My Baking Addiction. Enjoy!

CRUST

3/4 cup graham cracker crumbs
1 tablespoon sugar
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

FILLING

2/3 cup sugar
zest on 2 lemons
1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 (8 ounce) tub frozen whipped topping, thawed
1 cup fresh raspberries, slightly mashed with a fork

DIRECTIONS

1. In a medium bowl, stir together the graham cracker crumbs and 1 tablespoon of sugar and melted butter. Evenly divide the crumbs between your individual serving dishes and press into the bottoms of the dishes to form a crust layer.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the sugar and lemon zest until the sugar becomes moist and fragrant. Add cream cheese and beat with an electric mixer until smooth. Add lemon juice and vanilla mixing to combine. Using a rubber spatula, fold in the whipped topping until well blended, then fold in the raspberries.
3. Evenly pipe or spoon the filling into individual serving dishes. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. If desired, garnish with fresh raspberries and a sprig of fresh mint.

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a la Mode Monday: Wearing Color!!!

2011-10-17T11:53:00.000-04:00

So have been really into bold color clothing, and I have noticed a few trends and tips for color blocking…from starters to one in the middle and lastly full on rick takers.

#1 Color + Neutral – This I think would be the easiest and a good way of beginning color blocking. Notice the either the top of bottom is in an intense color and then all the other parts of the apparel is neutral. But all the neutral pieces don’t need to match, it could be different intensities of neutrals. Neutrals include: Browns, Blacks, Grays, Whites, Metallic, Navy, & Denim.

#1 Color + Color – I think this is middle ground…something to the next level. Wearing color on both top & bottom. My tip here would be wearing both colors in the same color intensity – Bright+Bright, Muted+Muted, etc. Also feel free to add color to your jacket, purse, & shoes.

#3 Color + Pattern – This for me seems like probably the most risk taking of all three. Adding color and pattern seems kind of intense, but I wouldn’t mind trying it. Here Color is put together with pattern, but with neutral patterns…that includes all the neutrals listed under #1. Feel free to add colored accessories to these outfits also.

If any of you try color blocking…send me pics! I would love to see it on you all!

Click on images for credit

Luscious Locks Friday: What should I do with my hair??

2011-10-14T10:04:00.000-04:00

So as I mentioned yesterday, this Sunday is the Russian Thanksgiving at our church…and I cannot decide what do with my hair!!! I have a few ideas below, but I cannot decide…so I was hoping you could help…which hairstyle would you like to see me wear on Sunday??

Artsy Thursday: DIY Bow Tie

2011-10-13T09:28:00.000-04:00

So a little while back I told you about my cousin’s baby Ben. So the Russian Thanksgiving is coming up this Sunday and Ben’s mom, Alesya, asked if I could make baby Ben a bow tie for the occasion. And of course I said yes, below is a picture of the final product.

This was my first REAL sewing project (I’ve made a pillow a few times before), and first time using the machine my mom gifted me. Sadly I didn’t take pictures during the process of making the bow tie, but I found this tutorial on Nature’s Heirloom that was a bit similar. The only differences is I did only 1 layer of the actual bow tie vs. 2, I didn’t sew together the middle of the bow – that was less stitches to bother the baby, and I did an actual fabric band around the next with Velcro (this will allow the bow tie to grow with baby Ben. If you have any other questions on the DIY of this project…message me! PS: Sorry for the bad quality pic, it was taken on my phone.

Welcome Home Wednesday: Sliding Barn Doors

2011-10-12T14:00:00.000-04:00

I think the first time a saw a sliding door was on Trading Spaces on TLC (Do you remember that show! Where did it go?) And ever since I saw it on the show, I have dreamed of having one in my home…sadly I don’t not have a home to put one into, but here are a few inspiration pictures for all of you to enjoy. Which are you favorites? Color or natural? Modern or rustic? Whimsy or classic?

click on image for credit

I’m starting another blog!!!

2011-10-11T14:57:00.001-04:00

No, I’m not stopping One Fell Swoop…I’m just starting another blog Healthier, Skinnier, & Stronger…my goal for this blog is to #1 be more accountable for my weight loss #2 to encourage others #3 show the difference between ‘skinny’ & healthy…I want to be healthy and strong…not skinny and wimpy. I hope this encourage you all…if you every have any questions regarding loosing weight, my journey, etc.…email me!

You can check out the blog here…

Tasty Tuesday: Chicken Pesto Pizza

2011-10-11T14:00:00.000-04:00

Just a little encouragement for you all…this pizza is SO easy and SO good. I mean even my picky eater husband asked for more…it took only a few minutes and easy to eat!

photo credit

INGREDIENTS

1 Pizza Crust – homemade or store bought
1/2 cup Pasta Sauce
1/4 cup prepared pesto – homemade or store bought
1 boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked & diced/shredded
Mozzarella cheese
Parmesan cheese

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 400 degrees
Spread the pasta sauce onto the pizza crust
Sprinkle with mozzarella
Add the cooked chicken
Place small dollops of the pesto on the pizza
Sprinkle with mozzarella
Top with fresh grated parmesan
Bake on a pizza stone or pizza sheet for 8 - 12 minutes, or the cheese is lightly browned.
Enjoy! (Told you it was easy!)

-Dina

'a la Mode Monday: New Eye Color!

2011-10-10T14:00:00.000-04:00

This weekend I went shopping with some friends and got a new eye color from Bare Escentuals called Celestine…it’s GORGEOUS!!! I have been looking for a beautiful taupe colored shadow and just happened to stumble upon this color. I am in absolute LOVE with this!

In person the color is a soft taupe with lots of shimmer.

Simple enough for every day…and fancy enough for the evening.

Photos are by One Fell Swoop – sorry for the bad quality; camera phone

LUCSIOUS LOCKS FRIDAY: Head Scarf

2011-10-07T18:48:00.002-04:00

I have seen these head scarfs everywhere around the internet…I’m not sure how confident I am to wear it myself. Below is a great How To from Keiko Lynn, check out her blog here…she has LOTS of hear DIYs and tips on fashion and beauty! Would you wear this? If so, with what type of an outfit? Do you think I should try it??

After many requests, I finally made a tutorial on how to tie a simple head scarf. It's really, really easy. I did this without looking in the mirror, so that should tell you how easy it is. Let's get started!

Start with a large, square scarf. I like my vintage silk scarves because they're soft and not bulky.

Fold one corner to the other to form a triangle.

Fold the corner down to about the middle, and then fold over again (but not all the way to the edge, because you want it to be a little thicker).

Put the scarf around your head with the ends in the front, making sure the wrong side of the scarf (the part where you can see the folds) is against your head.

Tie it in a loose knot at the front. I like to keep the whole scarf a little on the loose side (it will stay in place).

Tuck the ends behind/underneath the scarf.

Done!

I do not take any credit for the images or directions…it all goes to Keiko Lynn.

Welcome Home Wednesday: Creating a Gallery Photo Wall

2011-10-05T07:48:00.001-04:00

Gallery style photo walls have become ever more popular in the past couple of years. They are simple yet dramatic ways or showing off photographs, artwork, and family mementos. I have added some tips for creating your own gallery wall at home!

1. Choose photographs, art, and mementos you would like to frame – you can choose your items at random or with a color scheme (Black & white, monochromatic, or all color).

2. Decide on a layout – do you want your gallery wall to be symmetrical and very modern, or the look as though it has been collected over time (various sizes and shapes).

3. Find Frames for your items. If you take your time very often you can find frames at thrift stores, on sale, or at yard sales. Find frames that fit your item and are the same color; meaning all white frames, all black frames, etc. You can also search for frames that you just like and then just spray paint them to the color of your choice. I would also suggest having the matting be consistent also, white would be great, but any color of your choice would work, this is what brings it together.

4. Layout your arrangement on the floor – this is the best time to arrange and rearrange to get the perfect layout for your frames without making a number of unnecessary holes in the wall.

5. Create templates of your frames – find newspaper or butcher paper and trace around your frames, this is also a good time to mark on the paper where the nail will have to go, and number or name your templates so you don’ t mix them up.

6. Hang your templates on the wall w/ tape – Mimic the layout you created on the floor up on the wall; this also allows you to move things around if they are not working. Make sure the center of your collage in at 5’ tall, most people hang their art too high and then it’s not appreciated at eye level. This is also the time to make sure the templates and frames come out level.

7. Add the nails and hang up your frames! – Add the nails to where you had marked them earlier. Hang up the frame to make sure it mimics the template location. If it works, remove the template. This is the time to see the final product and enjoy! :)

I found this website that has a more visual ideas of the steps I created: go here.

click on images for credit

Tasty Tuesday: Creamy Chicken Pockets

2011-10-04T14:49:00.003-04:00

I made these Creamy Chicken Pockets about a month ago for our Bible Study gathering. They are absolutely amazing! They are so great to have as an appetizer and even finger foods for kids…I would recommend these for everything…and surprisingly very easy to put together. Enjoy!

CREAMY CHICKEN POCKETS

Yield: 8 pockets, 3-4 servings

2 tbsp olive oil
2-3 small chicken breasts, diced
1/2 cup minced onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 tablespoon butter, softened
3 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/4 teaspoon seasoned salt
2 tablespoons milk
1 (8 ounce) package refrigerated crescent rolls
1 tablespoon butter, melted
1/4 cup Italian seasoned bread crumbs, optional

Preheat oven to 375˚F.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the diced chicken with the onions and garlic.
Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and 1 tablespoon melted butter until smooth. Stir in the cooked chicken, onions and garlic. Add the salts, pepper and milk. Mix well.
Separate the crescent roll dough into the eight triangles. Dollop a tablespoon of filling into the center of each triangle and fold the corners up to seal. Press and seal firmly. Place on ungreased baking sheet or stone and repeat with the remaining dough and filling. Brush the tops with the melted butter and sprinkle with the bread crumbs (optional).
Bake for 11 – 13 minutes, or until golden brown.
To heat up leftovers, bake in a preheated 350˚F oven for 10 minutes.

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New Blog Post Line-Up

2011-10-04T14:33:00.001-04:00

In the past couple of weeks I have been deciding how to update the way I blog and what I blog about…so I came up with a new line up or blog posts for the future. I will try my best to stick with the schedule and share more of my daily lifestyle findings.

‘a la mode’ Monday – These posts will consist of fashion and beauty posts…this may include inspirational images, DIYs, or some of my personal tips.

Tasty Tuesday – These posts will include anything food related…from my recipes, to shared recipes, and fun food finds.

Welcome Home Wednesday – Here I will talk about anything related to the home – from design trends, to DIYs, design tips, and so on…

Artsy Thursday – Arts and crafts galore! From new artist reviews, to photographers, DIYs, and so on…anything that can give inspiration.

Luscious Locks Friday – I will continue posting Luscious Lock Fridays as before. I am sorry I haven’t done any personal hair styles…the reason being it is very hard and uncomfortable taking pictures of myself doing my hair…so I will try to find hairstyles for you, try them on myself and give a review…along with trends and maybe a few crazy styles.

Saturdays and Sundays - these will be my days off…once in a while I might post something if I absolutely cannot wait or there’s no time in the week :)

** Please note: If I miss a day, please forgive me…it might be that I am working or out of town but it won’t be long till I post again! :)

So these are the plans for the future of One Fell Swoop…of course plans may change (I’m always open to change)…but if you would like DIYs of specific projects or tips on certain things please send me at email! I love when I get questions coming in.

Also, One Fell Swoop in now on Tumblr & Twitter…I won’t be posting anything different on there, its just another way for me to stay connect with my readers…if you have either of those please join me! :)

Tumblr - http://onefellswoopdesign.tumblr.com/

Twitter – @OneFellSwoopDes

Facebook – One Fell Swoop

Have a great day everyone!

Buttermilk Carrot Cake…the best ever!

2011-10-02T21:08:00.002-04:00

So I have never been a real fan of Carrot Cake…NEVER! But then one of my coworkers shared this recipe with me and I fell in love! It has been one of my favorite cakes for the past couple years. So a couple weeks ago we had a little welcome party for my cousin’s new baby Benjamin and I made this cake for the party! -- Also, I created the sign with two paper straws (I got mine from Sweet Bungalow), some string, scrapbook paper, and stickers…easy & cute!

BUTTERMILK CARROT CAKE
Ingredients for Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups sugar
2 teaspoons baking soda
1-1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
4 medium carrots, shredded (2 cups)
1/4 cup buttermilk or sour milk
1/4 cup cooking oil
1 cup chopped walnuts
3 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla

Ingredients for Glaze

1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup buttermilk or sour milk
1/4 cup margarine or butter
2 teaspoons light-colored corn syrup
1/2 teaspoon vanilla

Ingredients for Frosting

1 pound cream cheese (3-4 packages)
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cup powdered sugar

DIRECTIONS
1. Grease and lightly flour two 9x1-1/2-inch round baking pans (or one 13x9x2-inch baking pan); set aside. In a large mixing bowl combine flour, 2 cups sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Add shredded carrot, 1/4 cup buttermilk or sour milk, cooking oil, pineapple, nuts, eggs, coconut, and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Stir until combined. Spread batter in prepared pans.
2. Bake in a 350 degree F oven for 40 to 45 minutes or until cakes spring back when touched lightly.
3. Meanwhile, prepare glaze: In a medium saucepan combine 1/2 sugar, the remaining 1/4 cup buttermilk or sour milk, 1/4 cup margarine or butter, and corn syrup. Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Cook and stir for 4 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 teaspoon vanilla. Pour evenly over tops of cakes. Cool cakes in pans on wire racks for 15 minutes. Remove layer cakes from pans and place on wire racks (do not remove cake from 13x9x2-inch pan). Cool completely.
4. In a large mixing bowl beat cream cheese, 1/2 cup butter, and 1 teaspoons vanilla with an electric mixer on medium to high speed until light and fluffy. Gradually add sifted powdered sugar, beating to spreading consistency. Frost cake. Store in the refrigerator.
Make-Ahead Tip: Cover and chill frosted cake up to 48 hours. (I actually think it tastes best when it’s just out of the refrigerator).

Design Sponge eNewsletter

2011-09-27T12:01:00.000-04:00

For the first time to date Design Sponge came out with their first eNewsletter.

They have some beautiful home inspirations along with simple DIYs you can do at home.

Click here to check it out.

DIY: Dip-Dyed Towels

DIY: Leather Coasters

Home Inspiration: Beautiful Beach Home

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Pretty Gradient Cake

2011-09-27T11:42:00.000-04:00

Have a pretty party coming up? Try making this pretty gradient cake.

Not Without Salt made it for her daughter's first birthday, but I think it would be
beautiful for any occasion! Also, she made a DIY video just for you (see below)!

Enjoy and if you end up making it, please do share!

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Mmm...Raspberry Lemonade!

2011-09-26T11:13:00.000-04:00

Summer is coming to a close soon, but I wanted to share my new favorite summer drink...HOMEMADE RASPBERRY LEMONADE! This recipe includes raspberries, but I have also added strawberries; other fruits would work well in here also. It is so easy to make and I would recommend it to all of you.

And of course; homemade is always better!

Ingredients
1 cup sugar

1 cup of water

¾ cup raspberries; pureed and pushed through a fine mesh sieve;

plus more whole berries for garnish if desired

1 cup fresh lemon juice (this equaled close to 8 of my lemons)

4-6 cups cold water (this will vary depending on your taste)

Directions
1. Make a simple syrup by combining the sugar with 1 cup of water in a

saucepan. Place over medium heat and heat until the sugar in completely

dissolved and becomes clear; swirl the pan occasionally. Let cool.

2. Freshly squeeze about 8 lemons to get 1 cup fresh lemon juice.

3. Measure 3/4 of fresh raspberries and puree them in your blender or food

processor. Push the raspberry puree through a fine mesh sieve to separate

the seeds from the pulp.

4. Once the simple syrup has cooled, combine the raspberry puree, simple

syrup and lemon juice in a large pitcher.

5. Add 4-6 cups of cold water (I add 6 cups because I don't like drinks

that are too sweet). The amount of water you use will depend on your

taste, so add as little or as much as you want to achieve your perfect

sweet/tart balance.

6. ENJOY!

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LUSCIOUS LOCKS FRIDAY: Big, bold, and Beautiful Hair

2011-09-23T18:53:00.000-04:00

I found these images of big, beautiful hair on Pinterest...how do I get all the volume and hair?? I guess that would mean lots of teasing and lots of products? Any of you have any favorite editorial or runway hairstyles? Please do share! :)

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All about me from A to Z...

2011-09-21T10:12:00.000-04:00

This fun meme was floating around blogs so I thought I'd play along.

A. Age: 23

B. Bed size: Queen, just enough for the two of us. :)

C. Chore that you hate: Watering plants every day...I love the plants...it's just the watering part.

D. Dogs: No pets...:(

E. Essential start to your day: Breakfast, reading the Bible, and of course all my blogs and Pinterest! :)

F. Favorite color: Green

G. Gold or Silver: Used to be all silver...but adding touches of Gold into my life. :)

H. Height: 5’6"

I. Instruments you play: A little bit of piano, like Fur-Elise, My Heart will go on, Lean on me...and that's about it... :) Plus the stuff I make up.

J. Job title: Wife, Interior Designer, Blogger, and friend. :)

K. Kids: Zero.

L. Live: Buffalo, NY

M. Mother’s name: Anna

N. Nicknames:Din Din, D, ... Not much to shorten from Dina.

O. Overnight hospital stays: Nope, never

P. Pet peeves: Unkept promises, late people, being late myself, people not cleaning up after themselves.

Q. Quote from a movie: "Just keep swimming, just keep swimming..." Dora, Finding Nemo

R. Right or left handed: Right handed

S. Siblings: Two younger - one brother (Edward) and one sister (Christina).

U. Underwear: Always...

V. Vegetable you hate: Celery...tried eating it before...doesn't stay down too well...feel kinda nausea after.

W. What makes you run late: Spending time with hubby...if that includes sleeping in late, taking a nap, watching TV, etc.

X. X-Rays you’ve had: Dental, ankle, and toe (yes toe, dumbest thing ever...)

Y. Yummy food that you make: I love my carrot cake! (I'll put recipe up soon)

Z. Zoo animal: Fish...Although I am afraid of underwater (didn't even go scuba diving in Hawaii) I love aquariums.

Well that was fun...if you would like to know anything else about me...just ask!

What is being a disciple of Christ?

2011-09-14T17:42:00.000-04:00

What is being a disciple of Christ?

How does your life show Christ?

"Go and make disciples of all nations" Matthew 28:19

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One Fell Swoop on Knapkins

2011-09-12T19:20:00.000-04:00

Hey everyone! One Fell Swoop recipes are now on Knapkins!

Come check them out here...and you can find & vote for other recipes on there also!

5 Tips for Staying Inspired

2011-09-09T13:06:00.000-04:00

Elsie from A Beautiful Mess just posted 5 Tips for Staying Inspired.

I really enjoyed her suggestions and will try to apply them to my life!

Here are the tips from her blog...

head on over to A Beautiful Mess for more daily inspiration.

" "How do you stay inspired?" is one of the questions I get asked most. The truth is that I live for my next project. There isn't a time in my life when I'm not completely obsessed about something. My mom says I've been that way since childhood (any other obsessors out there?). That said, I've put together a list of my 5 favorite ways to get a fresh burst of inspiration when I'm feeling a little lull. Enjoy...

1. Carry A Journal. No matter where I am or what I am doing I will have a little journal with me. It's in my purse, it's beside my bed... It's everywhere. Just carrying the journal is my constant reminder to write down ideas. Now, I don't use all the ideas I write down. For me, the act of jotting down ideas helps keep me in a creative mindset. The more ideas I write down, the more I have... and the better they become!

2. Find A New Muse. Oh my... the concept of a muse is so silly to me, but it really works! My current muse(s) can be anything from a band I'm loving to a movie that stuck with me or a vintage trend I want to re-create. A muse can be absolutely anything, but it's fun to find one with enough history to keep you studying for a while. The more you learn about your muse, the more inspiration you'll receive.

3. Develop A Creative Playlist. Several years ago I started painting on a daily basis. I had a favorite album at the time that I would play when I was working. Pretty soon I could only listen to that band when working... if it came on while I was driving it felt weird. I learned the value in having some comfort music to get me into work mode. This is especially valuable for people who work from home. Sometimes you need something to mentally put you into a creative state of mind and a playlist can most definiately do that for you! I like to have a different playlist (or favorite album) for every major creative season or project that I work on. These songs will bring back wonderful memories later on... trust me.

4. Refresh Your Workspace. This next one works wonders for me! One day I'm painting, the next day designing dresses and then working on a new art journal course the next... All of these different projects can make a studio VERY messy and that can cause stress.
My favorite thing to do when I need a pick me up is to rearrange just one little part of my studio. You don't have to clean or reorganize the entire space, but clear a table and arrange your supplies so that you have a fresh spot to work. If you need some extra happiness in your space grab a pretty bouquet of flowers from the grocery store or take a few hours to create a new inspiration wall. Refreshing your workspace can work wonders!

5. Prove Yourself Wrong! We've all been guilty of saying things like "I would love to, but I don't have time" or "I could never do that". These attitudes are so common, but they probably aren't even true. I know it sounds a little cliché, but if you believe you can do something... you can! It's a magical feeling to set a goal that feels a little bit impossible and then achieve it. I've marked quite a few things off my list that I used to believe I couldn't do. Proving yourself wrong is a great way to stay inspired because you'll be more motivated than ever when you meet your goal.
I hope these 5 Tips resonate with you. I love being inspired and want you to share the joy! Hope you have a wonderful weekend! elsie"

quoted from Elsie of A Beautiful Mess

100 Years of Fashion

2011-09-08T23:54:00.000-04:00

This is such a cute video I came across online...100 years of fashion in about 1 minute.

What decade were your favorite fashions introduced?

Please share your favorite pics / fashion inspirations.

LUSCIOUS LOCKS Friday: Bouncy, Curled Under, and Super Cute!

2011-09-02T18:23:00.002-04:00

I recently found this hair DIY while browsing the web. And I am loving it!

Super cute, kinda makes me want to cut my hair into a bob again :)

If you have short hair and even longer hair...

here are some good tips for styling your hair from Kate of It's The Small Things.

Enjoy!

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Mariachi Beluga

2011-08-26T09:45:00.000-04:00

This video is so cute...at moments it looks like the Beluga is dancing to the Mariachi music.

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LUSCIOUS LOCKS: Balayage - yes or no?

2011-08-26T08:24:00.000-04:00

So I just learned of this new hair color technique called Balayage.

This is how Hair Romance described the technique;

"Balayage is a free-hand colour technique that creates a graduated colour effect. Highlights are handpainted in to the midlengths to ends of the hair, so that the colour lightens gradually towards the ends of the hair. Balayage varies from a gentle 'sun-kissed' look or a more dramatic dip dye look. As it is a free-hand colour application, there are infinite results and it all depends on what you ask for and the skill of your stylist."

Now, I would like your opinion...I'm thinking I may try going a little darker (closer to my natural color), but i don't want to dye all my hair at once...I think this is a more gradual way of doing it...do you like this look? what do you think? Is it a yes or no?

Go here to see more...

(my hair is more blonde so it would look closer to the images above)

Niagara on the Lake

2011-08-24T09:00:00.001-04:00

A few weeks my cousin and I headed North to
Niagara on the Lake, Ontario (yes that's the cities name).
It is SO gorgeous there, and such a beautiful place to spend the day,
or even the weekend at one of the Bed & Breakfasts.

We stopped at the Niagara on the Lake Golf Club for lunch.
It is the only restaurant there on the lake, and the food was great too.
We had tomato soup with sandwiches;
Tanya had a country club and I had a Reuben.
It was so good, I would recommend it to everyone.

Say Something Nice

2011-08-22T16:53:00.000-04:00

Check out this video...this is by a collaborative called ImprovEverywhere. They set up a megaphone in NYC and allowed people to come up to say something nice...you can also check out more of their projects here on YouTube.

Garden Update: Tomatoes & Strawberries!

2011-08-22T09:00:00.037-04:00

Look at these tomatoes and strawberries...they are SO good...this is about the 3rd or 4th time I have picked this much fruit...it's awesome to have watched everything grown and then enjoy it after, but much more to go! :)

LUSCIOUS LOCKS: DIY Feather Extensions

2011-08-19T12:23:00.000-04:00

I realized the feather hair extensions I mentioned before are kinda expensive...about $20 PER FEATHER! So here is a video on DIY Feather Extensions...looks pretty easy! :-)

I also bought these feathers at Fuego.

They were only about $3 for the set and just come on a bobby pin.

Easy to put in and out :-)

Tart Deco

2011-08-17T09:38:00.002-04:00

My new favorite nail color: Tart Deco my Essie!

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It's so fun and summery...might even wear it into fall! :)

Visit Essie's website for their whole color collection,
and visit their blog Essie says... for updates on new colors!

Pretty Brows

2011-08-10T22:39:00.000-04:00

A little while back I learned how to trim and tweeze my brows correctly.

I never had a chance to take pics and show you how to do it,

but I just came across these pics and exactly how I do it! :)

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1. Brush your brows upwards.

2. Trip any hairs above your natural brow line - don't trim them too short!

3. Tweeze any hairs that stand out.

4. Tweeze all the tiny hairs to shape your brows.

5. The inside of your brows should line up a little to the inside of the side of your nose.

6. Your arch should be about 45 degree from the side of your nose.

7. The end of your brow should be about 65 degrees from the side of your nose.

8. And lastly fill in your brows if needed - I don't do it, and don't recommend it...I really don't like when you can see that someone filled in their brows.

Hope this helped you! :)

Friendship Bracelets

2011-08-09T15:17:00.001-04:00

This week my cousin made me a friendship bracelet! Thanks Anna! I love the colors!

But I am totally in love with them right now...I actually feel like getting more and piling them on my wrists...they look so gorgeous with all the colors and patterns!

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2011-08-05T14:55:00.000-04:00

Hey everyone! You can now follow me on Pinterest!!!

Just CLICK HERE & sign up to follow me...and even put up your own pins...

♥ Tea Drinkers ♥

2011-07-19T09:00:00.018-04:00

For those avid tea drinkers, check out these mugs...these are even great gift ideas!

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Shadow Art

2011-07-17T09:00:00.021-04:00

How much time do you think these pieces of art took?

Some of it I'm not sure is realistic...or maybe it's computer generated...what do you think??

PS: I learned from Abigail Thompson that these are not computer generated and are actually created by the artists Tim Noble and Sue Webster.

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Don't judge a book by it's cover...

2011-07-15T09:00:00.001-04:00

If you saw this home while driving by; what would you imagine inside?

I'm guessing not this...

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Ahh...beautiful and simple, traditional and contemporary...one day I will have it! :)

Ruche

2011-07-13T09:00:00.016-04:00

I recently came across Ruche and fell in love with their style and clothing.

Here are a few from their current Look Book. You can see more fashions here.

Villa Amanzi

2011-07-11T09:00:00.001-04:00

The Villa Amanzi was created by Original Vision Studio on the West coast of Phuket, Thailand. It has six bedrooms with an infinity pool and breathtaking views over the Andaman Sea.

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Garden Update: Tomatoes! :)

2011-07-09T12:25:00.000-04:00

I have some tomatoes!

I actually just noticed them a few days ago.

There are currently seven small green tomatoes!