A Thyme To Bee

A Friend

2011-01-06T22:28:00.000-07:00

I made this friendly Valentines Day card tonight. I will have to make some revisions before I listed in the shop. LOL, creation is a process, sometimes a long one when your anal like me. I am going to make sure the white border goes all the way around, get rid of the scallop at the bottom and do the same corner punches that I did at the top. I am also going to nix the Friends For A Life Time at the top and then bring the all of the black down centered. I think after those revisions it will be adorable!

My Christmas Cards

2010-11-26T14:02:00.000-07:00

Well since I have been doing so many Christmas themed items I thought it was best that I finally make some cards for me!

Relatives will be getting these little gems in the mail. My two boys, Tristen and Justin!

Love is in the air!

2010-11-23T08:58:00.001-07:00

Ok so I know we haven't even passed Turkey Day yet, but in retail the early bird gets the worm....lol I guess. So I have been working on some Valentine Day Inspired cards. Perfect for the little ones to exchange at school!

My first creation!

Right now I am workiing on some Monkey Kiss cards. I will have photos and listing up later!

Ok its later, here is the monkey!

My Paper is in!

2010-11-16T14:17:00.000-07:00

Got my order today from DCWV! Thank Goodness!! I was out of white paper, lol thats like being out of oil or flour!! I also got some Valentine Day Stacks! So pretty paper in there! I have two of the stack listed in my shop!

As you can see its the Madly In Love stack! Lots of pretty sheets ready to be turned into V Day stuff, Anniversary cards etc! Only 12 bucks in my shop (plus shipping), which is a steal for 48 sheets of paper!

I did make some Cupcake Toppers today for the girly girl! I did them in purple and hot pink! LOL which are truly girly colors!

Heheh oh I forgot to mention the pink were pink feathers! It could happen in nature! U never know!!

A Little Chistmas via paper!

2010-11-15T16:18:00.001-07:00

These were some mini's I did a couple of Christmas's ago. Luv the owl!

I have also gotten into making treat toppers, which are perfect for Christmas! Especially for those of you that bake for neighbors and family! Here are some of the toppers I have done for 2010:

This is my Holly treat topper which you can purchase in my Etsy store. I also did this one:

My Joy Treat toppers! They are adorable!

I have also done some Mini Note cards which are perfect to use as tags so that you can write a special note!

So bright and fun! Its beginning to look a lot like Christmas!! Come stop by my shop to see what else I have!

Team Eeat has changed!! Come check us out!

2010-04-09T19:17:00.003-07:00

What is Team Eeat? For those of you that do not know, it is a group of Edible Artist that have brought their talents to the Internet. Team Eeat has a range of foods, from baked goods to dog treats and all the way to Entree's. You can find Team Eeat on Etsy. If you have a hankering for some delish treats then you really should take a peek! You can find out about us on our blog.

Team Eeat has made some very important changes over the last 6 months. All of us admins have been working hard on these changes and we are pleased to announce that we have reached the point where we can say that All Team Eeat members are now in full complicance with their states regulations in operating a culinary business!!! So as a consumer you can feel confident when you purchase from a Team Eeat member!

You will be able to identify team members by the following:

1. You will be seeing this water mark on the first picture of a team members photos:

2. Shop Policies under additional info will have their License or certification number
3. There shop announcement will state that they are a Proud member of Team Eeat

*** All members are in the process of adding the watermark, if you are in doubt check or blog or email us!!****

Be aware that there are those that try to use our team tag, if you don't see all three of these then they are more than likely not a member. A list of our current members can be found on our blog or if you have questions you can email the admins at: Teameeat@yahoo.com .

If you want to get to know a little more about us come hang with us on our Saturday Snack Attack! We will be having two Snack Attacks on Saturday, April 17th one starting at 2pm est and the other will be at 8pm est. You can chat with some of our members, see some of the delish food and promote your Etsy shop too. The Attack will be held in the Etsy chat rooms!!

We look forward to seeing you all there!!!

~ Team Eeat

Saturday Snack Attacks hosted by Team Eeat UPDATED!!

2010-03-29T18:06:00.001-07:00

Team Eeat will soon be starting their Saturday night snack attacks! This is for all of you that love food and love to chat, share your products etc. We will be doing this once a month! You can get to know some of the delish Team Eeat members and all of their yummy foods!!

Plus it gives you the chance to see other peeps products that are on Etsy! So stay tuned for more info!!!

We have set the offiicial date for the Saturday Snack Attack!! We are actually going to be hosting 2 of them on Saturday, April 17th one at 2pm est and the other at 8pm est. The reason for the two times is that we have some members that are across the pond and we would like all of our members to have a chance to participate! So mark your calenders, come sit and chat with us!!

Give away!!!

2010-03-08T12:17:00.002-07:00

My Friend Krista is hosting a give away for me on her blog!! So go enter to win!!

It's March. March is a tough month for me. Winter should be ending, but somehow it's still hanging in there. We get hints of Spring, and then it snows. It gets dark and rainy, and seems like the world will never be green again. But, never fear! A Thyme 2 Bee Comforted is here to save the day!

Roasted Red Pepper Humus

Angelica is the owner and chef behind A Thyme 2 Bee Comforted. She features amazing meals ranging from Mexican to good 'ol fashioned American. My favorite are her Tamales, which are truly the best I've ever tasted!! Seriously. I grew up in Arizona, and had Tamales all of the time. Angelica's are the best. Her salsa's and sauces are full of flavor, and her meats are amazingly spiced. As you can tell, I've shopped from her time and again! She's very accommodating. If you live in her area, she has a broader menu, and will even deliver! She delivered a full meal to my parents once and they were thrilled!

A Thyme 2 Bee Comforted is a fully licensed and insured food business. She cooks all of her meals in a certified kitchen, using the best standards. This is one food shop that you'll be glad to order from!

So, what's the giveaway???

Angelica is giving away a pack of her Green Chili Pork Taquitos and an order of her Spicy Asian Wontons! They ship fresh; all you have to do is cook them!

How to enter:

Mandatory: Visit A Thyme 2 Bee Comforted's shop and tell us one more food item that you would love to try!

More ways to enter: (please leave a comment for each one)

1. Become a follower (or say you already are) of The Double Dipped Life.
2. Become a follower of The Double Dipped Life on Facebook.
3. Follow Angelica's blog

Giveaway ends at Midnight on Sunday, March 14th

Oh where oh where has Angelica been?!?!?

2009-11-19T09:02:00.000-07:00

I know I know, I should be blogging every day! But life got a little bit busier before Halloween. We had some re-arranging to do on Team Eeat. As alot of you know I a member of this awesome group of foodies.

I became and admin on the Team, so we have been busy recuruting new members, doing some clean up etc! You would be amazed at all the hard work that goes into managing a team on Etsy! Lucky for me the two other Admins Vanessa and Denise rock! We have been busy little bees implementing new ideas etc!

So sorry to abandon you all! LOL I have been blogging on the team blog as of late! I will try to spread my time more evenly in the future! Hmmmm its time to get a winter look going for my blog I think!

I am off to update the look!

Finshed my Album!

2009-10-11T10:32:00.013-07:00

Well I finished my album in enough time for my show! To bad the show was such a bust! Oh well it was a learning experience! I have to post all the photo's here as I can post them all in my Etsy listing which sucks!

This was really fun to make and I think it came together well! I hope you all like it also!

This what the cover looks like, which to me was the most time consuming but it came out cute! It is made from a pink cloth that has been hand stitched around the edges with a silver thread. Then I stamped the cute little girl outfit on two layers of card stock and hand water colored it. I cut out the words on my cricut. I think it looks pretty good!

The album is made from white paper bags, which I think works well. Using the paper bags gives you the opportunity to store other pictures or mementos in some of the pages! Above is what the first page of the album looks like. It has an embossed swirl background and it has been accent with lots of girly embellishments!

The album is a little bigger than other paper bag albums that I have seen, this one measures 6x6" and generally the area for you to place your photos or journaling are 4.5"

The album focuses on a year in the life of your little girl. I did pages reflecting the major events and holidays in a year! The above pages are for that special Birthday!

The above page is for Bunny day with it's bright fun colors and all of springs little friends!

Above pages reflect my favorite Holiday of the year!! I love Halloween, lol maybe because I missed being born on that day by hours! Plus I love the idea that you can be anything that you want to be on that day!

What year wouldn't be complete with out some cheery Christmas pages!?!? I didn't totally stay with the traditional colors...lol I find the traditional colors get boring after awhile! Plus I loved the ornament paper I have!

The last page of the album is to honor daddy's little girl! Love all the pastel colors on this page! Hheheh I would love to keep this one, but no little girls here!! All boys and no plans for any more!!

It's time for another VIRTUAL BAKE SALE with Team Eeat!

2009-09-24T08:34:00.005-07:00

Yes its that time again!! Time to tempt and tantalize your mouth with the tasty treats from Team Eeat!! You get to sit down and chat with the girls of Team Eeat and find out a little more about them and their shop (ok ok there maybe a guy or two on the team)!

You can find a large variety of yummy food at the bake sale from Enchilada's to pet treats! We don't leave any family members out!!

If you never been to one of our bake sales your have missed out!! There will be games and prizes, awesome chat and best of all some YUMMMMMMY FOOD!!

When: October 14th

Time: 7pm to 10pm est

Where: Etsy Virtual Labs

I hope to see you all there! If you want to what Team Eeat is all about prior to the bake sale, come drop by our blog!! Make sure u put your bib on and cover your keyboard with some plastic! http://etsyedibleartsteam.blogspot.com/

It's A Girl, paper bag Album

2009-09-11T20:40:00.009-07:00

So my current project for the show I am doing is a paper bag album. It's been fun! I still have a couple of pages to do, LOL....I find myself adding more and more.

Here is what she looks like so far!

This is the cover of the album, the background is a cute pink fabric. Its accented with a cute little girls outfit stamp.

This is the first page, it has a space for a photo and some room for journaling. Its been accented with ribbon, paper flowers, and some stickles.

This is the third page, it has a space for a photo, and has a cute little elephant with a sweet pink bow.

These next two pages are my fav so far. LOL maybe cuz of all the purple....which is after all my favorite color! These pages are the birthday pages. The back ground of the page has been embossed with different versions of Happy Birthday. There are spaces for two photos and the pages have been embellished with some cute birthday kitties!

Well this is all I have so far. I hope to finish it this weekend. The show is fast approaching! The remaining pages are going to have Easter, Halloween and Christmas.

I hope you enjoy a little peek in to my shop!

Painting...I still got the knack

2009-09-01T09:32:00.003-07:00

Well I guess drawing and painting is like a bicycle, you just never forget. I was at M's the other day browsing for paper and stamps for my card shop. Some how I wandered down the aisle with all of the canvases. I tend to "wander" a lot in that store..hehehehe

I thought to myself...hmmmmmmm wonder if I can still paint. I painted a lot when I was younger, I just haven't done it in about 8 years or so. LOL I forgot how much I enjoyed doing it. Not to mention the jaw dropping of my 12 year old. He was completely amazed that I could paint a scene from Beauty and the Beast. LOL mom actually made him go WOW...which we all know is hard to do when the have reached the pre-teen stage of life!

Hmmm now what should I paint next...I have one more 12 x 12 canvas..hehehehehe

FFF is Next Friday!!

2009-08-28T17:37:00.003-07:00

Team Eeat is ramping up again for the winter season!! It is finally cooling off, so several of my fellow team mates will be reopening their shops!

What does that mean?? Some yuuuuuuuuuuuuummmy treats will be ready for the pickin and deliverin straight to your door!!

If you haven't been to an FFF (Friday Food Fest) you should come check it out! There are games, prizes, good food and some fun chatting!!

When: Friday, September 4th

Time: 8pm Est

Where: Etsy Chat

Hope to see you there!!!

Packaging for a Great idea!

2009-08-23T14:18:00.007-07:00

So I was contacted to make some packaging for Doodle and Goo! You can find Doodle and Goo on Etsy or directly on their website. Jodi makes very cute kids clothing! Awesome fabric choices and designs.

She also has a great idea for a reward system for your little girls that are being potty trained. Instead of your regular ole stickers, stamps etc, Jodi has created a Charm bracelet. Your child gets the charm bracelet, and each time she goes in the potty she gets a new charm! The bracelet comes with 30 charms!! I think its a great idea! She also has designed a charm bracelet for the Tooth fairy! Same concept, each time your child looses a tooth she gets a charm, instead of boring old money!

I have seen the bracelets and the charms they are really cute! I have done the packaging, here are some photos!

If you get a chance go take a trip to Doodle and Goo!

Hugs!

Angelica

Getting Ready for a Show!!

2009-08-22T18:33:00.006-07:00

Woohoooo I am going to be in my first local show!! I am neeerrrrvous! I am going to be part of the Secret Addiction Boutique! Part of the proceeds benefit the Cardon Children's Medical Center. So for all of you AZ peeps that happen to read my blog, I expect to see you there!

Now how much stuff to make, and I have to have it all done by October, as the event is the 2nd of October, from 3 to 10 pm!! So I am all a flutter....LOL...I don't know how much stuff to bring, what to make etc. Angelica needs to take a deep breath! So I have been busy, since I signed up, here is a sample of some of the cards I have made!

I love Thank You's Pink

Santa

Thanks for reading! I hope u guys like my new additions and if you get a chance come out to the show!!

Hugs

Angelica

Yesterdays Cards

2009-08-13T10:33:00.005-07:00

Bon Voyage

So I have been going through alchemy on Etsy to see what peeps are looking for, so that I can get more ideas for my shop! I came up with these cute little mini note cards that can be used to let peeps know that you moved or to go with your orders for those of u that have a Paris themed shop!

R.I.P Gave Stone Tags

I also added some cute Halloween tags! Heather and I can't seem to stop with the Halloween stuff!

Pink, Brown & Teal Favor Boxes

The final thing I made were some cute favor boxes in pink, brown and teal! They are really cute and can be made in any color. This example has a window, I personally like them with out the window.

It's begining to look a lot like....

2009-08-09T11:26:00.006-07:00

Christmas Angel Set of 8

Halloween, Christmas, Thanksgiving.....yes already!! Peeps on Etsy are starting to gear up for the 2009 Holiday season per several post in the fourums!! Lots of peeps are already starting to look for those specials gifts for the loved ones in their life!!

Personally I am always behind the eight ball, I don't Christmas shop until December. My family is snoopy! They would try and find all of their presents!!

So I have been adding some items for all of the up coming Holidays in my shop and have also kept my eyes out for other Holiday Cheer!

Here are some of the goodies:

Trick or Treat Bag

This adorable bag would be the perfect party favors for your ghoulish gathering! It can be given away as favors filled with yummy treats or it can also be used as a unique place card! I really had fun making this bag, I loved the card stock and the bats! Halloween is my fave holiday!!

Dark Green Snow Woman

This snow woman is just so cute!! She is a perfect decoration for your table top or mantel!! She will definitely bring the Christmas cheer to your house!!

You can find much more in my shop! I am trying to add new things daily. So what have you found that you absolutely love? Or what have you made for the upcoming season?? I would love to see!!

Well keep on truck-n we will be hearing sleigh bells before we know it!

Artful Entertaining Gift Guide

2009-08-07T22:35:00.003-07:00

I am soo happy I made it into the Artful Entertaining Gift Guide on Etsy!!! There are tons of cute things in the gift guide! My Cilantro Pesto is what made it into the gift guide!!

Come check out what else is in the Gift Guide, maybe some of your things are in it!! Its the perfect place for early Christmas shopping!!!

The creepy and the kooky......

2009-08-05T10:59:00.005-07:00

Hahha my favorite Holiday will be upon us soon.....ok its 2 months away....but considering how time flies now a days it will be Halloween before you know it. Its my favorite Holiday because on that day you can be anything you want to be! I was almost born on Halloween..heheheh missed it by that much.......instead I came into the world on The Day of the Dead....aka Nov. 1!!

So since my fave holiday is only two months away you will be seeing some creepy and Kooky things in my shop!

Here is a sample of what I listed today!! There will be some cute little Halloween boxes to come! I am working on those today!

A Crawling

So check back for some more creepy.....and ok cute Halloween things!!

Chromasmear

2009-07-19T19:14:00.003-07:00

There are rumors running ram pet through Etsy right now about Uleen aka Chromasmear. The rumors are true, Uleen passed away yesterday in a rafting accident.

My heart goes out to her family and her husband. She was a very funny lady with an awesome sense of humor and a talented individual. She will be missed by all of the people who's lives she has touched...........

Food Genes

2009-07-14T14:31:00.005-07:00

Well apparently the food gene is like any other gene, it runs through my family! My little sister Stephanie has quite a talent for cake decorating! My dad emailed me photos of her talent at work! She did an anniversary cake for a co worker and it came out awesome!!

Heheheh she is in FL far far away from me here in AZ....hmmmmm maybe we will have to start a little something something together! I can do all the main dishes and she can handle dessert. I think she needs to switch up and go to pastry school. LOL.....shhhh don't tell my dad that....he probably won't be to thrilled with that idea. However I am the big sister and I can say what I want. Which in this case is follow your heart and do what u love!

Aren't those rosettes awesome!! I am very impressed!! Which is what this blog post is all about! Way to go little sis!!

Hugs!

Angelica

This and That

2009-07-13T22:26:00.004-07:00

Well there are some interesting happenings going on this month, so I thought I would pass on the info to my peeps!

For those of you looking for a great way to promote your shop and also to give a helping hand to a Charity then you need to take a look at Chromasmears Blog. If you look on the right hand side of her blog you will see all of the shops that are already participating. So spread the love and get your shop viewed!! If you would like to get to know Chromasmear you can read all about her on a previous Blog Post.

Ok so this next item is a little self serving, but I am excited about it so I have to tell someone who will get it! LOL, I told my BF and I basically got the nod....u all know the nod ...the one that says I really don't care.....but I am acting like I do.....yeah that one!

So I was contacted by James, from Blockhead Radio who does a show called Chocolate Cover Bacon ( yes I said chocolate covered bacon...its real...I saw it on Food Network on one of Bobby Flays shows). Chocolate Covered Bacon is about all things food, James shares with you the best finds in artisan foods. I am proud to say that my shop A Thyme To Bee comforted will be featured on James show this Thursday, July 16th at 6pm Est (for those of you on the West cost like me that is 3pm). I hope to see you guys there! If you ever wanted to ask me a question about myself or my shop now is the time! I will be in Blockheads chat as the show airs to answer any burning questions that you all may have!

Well I hope to see you all at the show, and go donate something to Chroma's box for Charity you will be helping out some darling animals!

Be Safe, and Be Happy!

Hugs!
Angelica

A Team Eeat Christmas N July

2009-07-05T19:59:00.002-07:00

Team Eeat is doing an AWESOME giveaway in coordination with Etsy's Christmas in July!! If you have a favorite Team Eeat shop, I suggest you take a hop, skip and a jump to our blog for details!! http://etsyedibleartsteam.blogspot.com/2009/07/christmas-in-july.html

Bring the spirit of the Holiday to your home early...hehehehhe REALLY early! Hey but it is NEVER to soon for some tastey treats!

Enjoy and have a blast!

Angelica

Chromasmear Your One Stop Shop for Promotional items!!

2009-07-02T07:49:00.010-07:00

For those of you that frequent chat on Etsy you may have seen that smiling face that is Chromasmears avatar. Which really does reflect her personality very well! Behind that smiling face is a pretty awesome shop! She is a very talented graphic designer, but what I like most is she can handle all my needs in one stop shopping. By this I mean that she can design my labels, business cards etc and also print them out for me!! What a time saver and a headache reducer!! Before I was going to two different shops, and one could do anything with out the other! It was all very time consuming!

So if you need magnets, business cards, banners etc I suggest you give Chroma's shop a peep! You will like what you see and she is AWESOME to work with!

For all of you curious cats I did a little recon on Chromie!

Tell us a little about yourself.

When I'm not working in Etsy orders or chatting with my friends on the puter I'm working graveyards as a support worker with adults who have extra needs.Sometimes I don't sleep much because of my double life, some people think I don't sleep at all, they aren't far from wrong, I hear the word Vampire a lot.

How did you get started on Etsy?

Originally I had a different store 2 years ago, but I was not a great start. I sold jewellery and I found out quickly not only was I not very good at making it, I didn't enjoy it that much either. I turned that store over to my mom and opened this store for my artwork.Chromasmear developed from paintings to what you see now. A friend helped me come up with the name, and I think the word Chroma ( color ) suits me well. I love color to use it heavily in anything I create to give impact, more so then just the images or patterns that you might see.

What advice would you give new peeps trying to venture into opening a online store?

Don't assume just because you make a wonderful project it will sell out over night. It takes time to get noticed and time for the sales to start rolling in too.Do not rely on Etsy traffic to bring in the sales. Get out there with your product and sell to other places. Buy ad spaces off Etsy, and do not forget about local opportunities to advertise too. Get creative with your advertising too. Business cards are good, but people tend to throw those away. Use items that have use outside of your product so people who do not know you will keep them around. Magnets that offer information that people use for daily living is always good. Bookmarks, a mini calender, etc, might cost you a bit more up front but in the long run it could end up making a bigger difference in your sales. Opening a business is not easy, and some people have to wait a long time for things to kick off for them. I waited about a year for my sales to start happening and I still do not get a sale a day which was my goal when I first started selling here.

What are some of your favorite websites or other online stores?

Here's where every person I know holds their breath to see if they are one of the ones I mention right ? LOL OK that's not fair so I am going to say that I buy from those I really like, so if you want to see who I shop from go look at my feedback.There are others that I wish I could shop from but the shipping is too high because of where I live. Shipping to Canada can be painful.I do want to make special note that if you own a shop that donates to animal charities, I do tend to look at those shops a lot because I have a huge soft spot in my heart for animals.Aside from Etsy shops I also like surfing the web at random to discover new things. Sometimes that's how I find my inspiration for a design. I don't mean I copy something just that I see an idea I like and I adapt it to suit my style and color preferences. Sometimes a piece is made up of several ideas all blended together.

GO NOW and take a trip to Chromasmears store, you won't be dissapointed and your shop well it will look great!!!

Be Safe, Be Happy!

Hugs

Angelica

My new Hooters

2009-04-26T22:27:00.006-07:00

Ummmm what did u think I was going to show u.........yeah I know where your mind went with that title!! My new hooters are actually my new Owl Thank You Tags! Oh paper crafting is as addictive as my beads and my food.....lord I need more time in the day!!

I did these cute little tags in browns and creams! I think they would be a cute way to say thanks!! Plus didn't u know Owls are all the rage?!?!?

I also did some cute butterfly thank you cards today, its a whole set. It comes with the envelopes, the cards, and cute owl stickers to close the envelopes with....hehehe see I got tons of hooters!!

Heheh I hope u enjoyed another peek into my work!! I am going to be working on some new items for my food shop, so stay tuned!!

Be Safe, Be Happy!!
Angelica

New Team Member Spotlight: mysweetserendipity

2009-04-22T10:50:00.003-07:00

For those of you that follow my blog you also know that I am a member of Team Eeat. I have been elected to welcome the new members to our team, so in addition to welcoming them on the Team Eeat Blog, I thought welcoming them here would also be great exposure for my new Team mates!!

Team Eeats is continually growing!! Which is AWESOME for you followers as it means there are going to be more delectable treats for you to choose from!! Yes I know there is already a HUGE selection to choose from, but really can you have too much dessert....I think not!

I would like to welcome our newest Member Darlene of Mysweetserendipity! I know how all of you blog readers like to get the inside scoop about featured artist so I did a little interview with Darlene.

What is your favorite treat in your shop and why?

Oh any and everything chocolate!!

Tell us a little about yourself, i.e. family, favorite color, food, etc

Well I have been married to my best friend for almost 9 yrs now and we live on a small hobby farm which is both our true love. We have 3 boys "dogs" Buster, Bubba, and Barney who are the light of my life, we raise chickens for eggs, have goats horses and cats also. I love primitive antiques and you will find me most of the summer out working in the large veggie gardens we have (a true country gal in jeans and t shirts) over the last couple of years we have acquired state and county licensing to bake and also do canning for local farmers markets. LOVE my life!! I also am love to create unique altered memory books. Favorite Color BARN RED of course LOL

Who is your favorite chef (if you have one!)

Love Paula Dean and Sandra Lee

Do you sell your goodies any where else besides Etsy?

From my blog, in a couple of local stores and at markets.

Finally, what are some of your other favorite online sites or stores?

Oh I love all everything about Etsy and am proud to be a part of this great handmade site. All the gals on the team EEAT have some wonderful products and I love seeing what everyone comes up with! I like to say "live life joyfully, create something new"

Now what Darlene hasn't mentioned is that she has another Etsy shop where she creates primitives. If her sweet treats don't tantalize you then maybe her adorable primitives will. So go on get in your recliner, get comfy and take a leisurely trip through Darlene's stores! I am sure you will fall in love with something!!

Be Happy, be safe!

Hugs!

Angelica

New Additions

2009-04-14T09:38:00.004-07:00

Well besides working on Tristens album I have been working up some new cards for the ole shop! I haven't been working as hard as I should, life seems to continueally get in the way!!

Just a Note to say....

Heheh u guys will see lots of purples, butterflies and hearts in my shop as they are all the things I love!! This card is blank inside so that I can stamp Happy Birthday, mothersday etc in the inside!!
I also love to do mini not cards, they are fun and perfect way to say Thanks to your customers when they order from your shop!!

My newest ones are my Rank You mini note cards....hehehe borrowed the line from Scooby doo...

Making cards is fun and the best part is that they can be customized to whatever my customer wants!! I hope u enjoyed a peek into my recent work! I will be back to blog about my other projects!!

Hugs
Angelica

New Album Pages for Tristens Zoo Album

2009-04-10T11:21:00.006-07:00

Finally some more pages for Tristen's Zoo album. I have been a busy bee between the kids and their joining baseball. Angelica is really getting sick of all the games!!! Yes I know that is horrible to say, but I am honest! One game right after another tends to grind on my nerves, along with the fact that my oldest games usually don't end until after 9pm!

Ok now that I have ranted lets get to the goods, here are the next couple of pages!

I think it is coming along pretty cute! The sewing takes FOREVER, especially since I am not good at it! Well as they say practice makes perfect! Next are the Monkey pages!!

Hope u enjoy!
Angelica

Emily Wiser Jewelry

2009-03-25T09:49:00.007-07:00

So recently I was in chat, doing what I do best blabbing with my bestest Etsy friend Heather. Low and behold what do I see on the right side of the screen in chat, but two of the most delicate and pretty silver bangles!! I love bangles but I typically can't buy them at the store because I have mini wrist, and I mean mini! The bangles will just fall off my arm.

So I wistfully click on the pretty bangles and what do you know Emily makes them custom to fit you!! After I did a jig and then a jump or two I whispered Emily about how to go about sizing my wrist. She was very helpful!! So low and behold I purchased the bangles, and they got her SUPER quick...hehehe I know cuz I was watching my mail box with anticipation!! I am not very good at waiting for things!!

All I can say is that they fit PERFECT and they are crafted expertly! They are very delicate and beautiful. Emily really does have a knack for making these bangles and other awesome jewelry in her shop!! I loved them soooo much that I decided to feature Emily on my blog, that way all of you can get a chance to see her supremely beautiful work and maybe take a trip to her Etsy shop and get yourself a pair of bangles!! I did a short interview with Emily that way we can get the scoop on her!

Tell us a little about yourself, i.e hobbies, family etc :

I like to make jewelry! Also, I was on TV last Monday. I missed it, but a friend had a copy to share with me. It's on YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kJvUp5ltOSU

What is your inspiration for your jewelry?

Peace, beauty, and meditation. I like the harmony of shapes and colors, and I like working with jewels. There's nothing better than feeling a dozen strands of pearls slide through your fingers!

How long have you been making your jewelry?

I've been making jewelry about 16 years. My mother-in-law is an artist and she taught me how to bead. Later, I taught myself silversmithing, and I've recently taken silversmithing classes at Lillstreet Art Center in Chicago.

Are you on any other venues besides Etsy? Online or even off line?

I'm on 1000 markets at emilywiserjewelry.1000markets.com online at www.uniquefreaque.com and I'm at the Orchard Gallery in Ft. Wayne Indiana and at the Illinois State Museum Society gallery in Round Lake, IL. And at my own website at www.crazypenguin.com/jewelry

What are some of your other favorite online shops and why?

Etsy is my favorite shop! You can get anything on Etsy. I also like shopping at 1000 Markets, and of course Amazon, Old Navy and the Gap. LOL

Emily sounds like a girl after my own heart, hehehe she loves to shop and she loves Etsy! So do yourself a favor and go and buy yourself some Bling in Emily's shop. You won't be disappointed!

As always be Happy and be Safe!!

Hugs!

Angelica

Zoo Paper Bag Album Adventure

2009-03-12T14:32:00.009-07:00

Hiya everyone! Well as you all know my son and I just recently went to the Zoo on his first Kindergarten field trip. You guys also know that I have started an new hobby making cards etc. Well now I am combing my trip to the Zoo with my son with my new found hobby!

I am in the process of making him a paper bag album. I thought it would be appropriate his first school field trip and my first venture into paper bag albums! I am no pro, but lord forgive me I am anal! So far I have gotten the base done, and the front cover. I started this yesterday and that is all I have done! Angelica typically doesn't sew and now she remembers why, it hurts her little alien prong fingers!!

Here is what the base looked like before I did the cover, this is the outside of the album.

Here is what the inside of the base looks like, which will be the inside cover and back inside cover of the album:

Now here is what the cover looks like:

hehehehh I may be a bit biast but I think it is adorable so far! Yes I know I am missing a center eyelet on the spine, well that is because I went the cheap way and bought the small version of the cropa a dile when I should of just spent the money on the bigger one. My little one can't reach the center hole!! So now I have to buy a big one to finish the eyelet. I tried using the smaller one, well let me tell u I had to through out that first base because it set both sides together so you couldn't open the album and I wasn't very happy!!

I am off to do some of the inner pages now, well after a trip to the store to find ink for my printer. I need to print off the pics so I can decide what I want to do on each page.......I told you I was anal!

Be Safe, Be Happy

Hugs! Angelica

Lions.....Tigers.........and Bears......Oh My!!

2009-03-06T10:13:00.007-07:00

Well I can't believe that it is Friday already!?!? Where did this week go???? How is it that I find myself even busier now than when I had a full time job? Trucking kids from here to there, trips to the grocery store, it seems to suck your day away!! Makes me wonder how I did it when I worked full time because the trips to the grocery store where still there and so were all the mundane task of every day living. Hmmmm maybe that was why I was so grumpy back then!! Hehehe I can still get grumpy now, but not as much as before!

Well this week was also filled with a trip to the Zoo with my son Tristen's Kindergarten class!! I was mildly excited, after all 20 screaming, yelling and crying 6 year old in one big group puts my anxiety up!! Tristen however was VERY excited! He got to ride the bus for the first time. In the morning he got to go with brother to the bus stop and ride with brother to school! Typically I take Tristen to school as he is in afternoon kindergarten (oh and don't put your kids in afternoon kindergarten, let me tell u it make your day WAY less productive!). So he was excited to be a big boy and ride the bus with his brother Justin! He got on the bus with a little help from brother, like they say that first step is a doosey...hehehhe it was taller than his legs!!

In the meantime grandma and I were on our way to the zoo we wanted to be there on time as all the notes that were sent home said DO NOT BE LATE, so we left with plenty of time to get there. I am famous for getting lost..hehhehehe....even with navigation in my car! But we made it to the Zoo at 9am on the dot. Go figure I am on time and the bus ended up being 45 minutes late, yes we sat there for 45 minutes wonder where everyone was!!

Well come to find out we didn't have to stay with the group of twenty kids (my anxiety relaxed) we just had to check in with the teacher and get Tristen from her and we were free to roam the park! It was a really relaxing day. We saw some animals, but then Tristen found the play ground that has a slide. Needless to say mom and grandma sat on a bench for over an hour while he went up and down the one slide. He didn't want to leave the slide!!! We finally tore him away and went and looked at some more animals. Tristen is a hoot, he is very serious for a 6 year old, he asked what time it was and when we told him he said that we needed to leave at 12:15 as this is the time that teacher said we could leave. So at noon we decided to leave the zoo and we made it into the car at 12:14, he is like we are a minute early but that's ok mom......

Well all I can say is I would rather be walking around in the Zoo than telling someone why they can't qualify for a home loan! We all had a great time and Tristen was all smiles, so I say this week was a success. I am going to be trying my hand at a paper bag album which is an scrapbook of sorts. My first one will be about our Zoo trip! I am excited, I ordered some new stamps and a new cartridge for my cricut that is for animals and baseball. Tristen and Justin just started baseball. So Justine will be getting a baseball album made! Hehhe that is if the Zoo one turns out! Mom snapped a lot of pics at the Zoo so I have a lot to work with!! When it's done I will post it here on the blog so you all can have a peek!!

Be safe, Be happy!

Angelica

Spring is in the air....pass me a Rita

2009-02-26T10:31:00.003-07:00

Well spring is in the air on my side of the world! I know those of you in the East or in the North are still in the big chill! Here in AZ though we are sunny and warm around 80 degrees!! Hehhe no "hating" please! If it makes you feel better I am recovering from the last cold of the winter season (I hope). It was a nasty one, kids really should be required to go to school or play area's in bubbles!!

So what do I like most about Spring and even summer...well besides the bright sunny days and the clear blue skies I love me a Rita aka a Margarita. There is nothing like this tart and salty drink....mmmmmm. Now a days you can get a rita in just about every flavor imaginable! I suggest the next time you are at the Cheese Cake Factory to request their Prickly Pear Rita, this is an awesome rita one of my fave's!!! It is a dark pink and has a slight sweet flavor!!

So I thought it fitting to share a recipe with you for a yummmy rita!! This one comes from one of my fave magazines Gourmet, it is for a Key Lime Margarita. A key lime are those mini little limes that you see in the grocery store, usually they are sold to you in a bag! These little gems pack a stronger lime flavor that there bigger relatives, so you will have a tart and damn tasty drink!

What you need (I suggest making a big batch, mixing drink while u have already had drinks.....not a good idea...hehehehe):

1 Key Lime that has been quartered and Kosher salt which will be used to rim the glasses (make sure it is the finer kosher salt not the big crystal one)

3/4 cups Cointreau or other orange flavored liqueur

1/2 cup reposado tequila (ok so I would suggest Patron Silver, it is my fave tequila it goes down smooth and doesn't have a harsh flavor, although I have never had reposado.....just don't do cuervo...eww.....)

1/2 cup fresh Key Lime juice (make sure u get two bags, don't want to run out of limes!)

2 tsp superfine granulated sugar (optional) they are suggesting supefine sugar because it will melt in to the drink quicker and won't get stuck at the bottom like regular sugar does when u put it in your ice tea!

Run a lime wedge around the rim of each of the 4 (6-8oz) glasses. Put salt on a small plate and dip glasses in salt to lightly coat rims.

Blend liqueur, tequila, juice and sugar in a blender until combined and serve over ice. Ok so you really don't need to bust out the blender for this, you can put all the ingredients into a shaker and do it that way! I would only bust out the blender if you are going to add ice and make them into slushy rita's!!

Well I hope you enjoy one of my favorite drinks this spring!! Nothing like laying out in the back yard with a pitcher of rita's sitting by you as you soak up the sun!!

Be safe, Be happy!!

** Hugs

Angelica

A new Hobby....another...can u belive it?

2009-02-17T10:56:00.007-07:00

Ok so I have been a bad blogger...sorry to all of my followers!! I have been busy with yes another new hobby of mine!! Between the kids, the food shop and the jewelry shop what am I thinking?? I guess my creativeness likes to come out in various directions!

I have found that I love working with paper!! Scrap booking, card making etc are my new love!! This new addiction of mine I have to credit my friend Heather! She has been the culprit on getting me hooked!! She does such cute cards, that I wanted to take a shot at it!! Also my BF bought me a Cricut for Christmas...heheheh which makes making things A LOT easier!! Well I have a long way to catch up to the Master (Heather, don't tell her I called her that....her head is big enough already..hehehehe) but I am finding that I enjoy doing it! When I can find the time!! It calls to me, saying come tuck yourself away in your little corner and stamp, cut, glue and fold! Here are a couple of my little creations I hope you like them!!

I will bring back the tip segment next week, I have orders in my food shop to get out and the FFF is on Friday, plus I have a sicky at home with me this week! So I am on full for things on my plate this week!!

Be Happy, Be Safe!!

Hugs!
Angelica

And the winner is............

2009-02-09T10:36:00.004-07:00

Hahha so u thought I forgot to post who the winner was.....nope I didn't!! Heather already has it up on her blog! The winner of our little contest was mamaslittlemonkeys!! She choose to go with Heathers Cherry not cards! She also gets an 8oz Jalapeno Hummus from my shop!! We did send out an interview questions to mamaslittlemonkey, but she is sooo busy right now creating all those cute kids clothes that we decided to post with out getting her interview back. We will update our blog post on her when we hear back!!

Thanks for all of you that participating in our giveaway! Keep on the look out I will be announcing my next giveaway soon!!

Be Safe, Be Happy!

Angelica

A Handmade Valentine's Day

2009-02-03T08:37:00.014-07:00

The world over the last ten years has become more fast paced, more lets do everything now, now, now. It also seems that the personal touch is a fast a fading commodity, with a market that is flood with massed produced crap (yes I call it like I see it).

I remember when it use to mean something to make something with your hands, yes I know as a teenager it was uncool to make something for your parents, but let's be honest now that you are an adult and your Mom pulls out that finger painted master piece that you made when you were five doesn't bring a smile to your face? I mean you are 30 something and she has kept it for 25 years.........holly shit that is a long time.....sorry....time flies. Most of all it meant something to her, who but a mom would keep a pieces of paper with indistinguishable objects in un-matching colors?

Or you finally take a trip home to mom and dad's upper class CA home only to find that the painting that you did of an Aladdin (Disney's Aladdin of course) Video game cover when you were a teenager is proudly displayed in their entertainment room....for christ sakes they have an entertainment room and they have YOUR art work proudly displayed center stage like it was a painting by Picasso or something....it is a kind of feeling that as an adult brings a tear to my eye.

So I guess my point is this why do we feel as consumers that we must spend our hard earned dollars on all the mass produced crap that litters the stores? I think we had it right when we were kids weather we realized it or not, something made by the hand and from the heart will truly mean more to the person that you are giving it to than the $12.99 box of crap candy that you can buy at your local target.

Now you are saying well I can't paint or make jewelry or whatever it is that you want to give your loved ones for the up coming Valentines Day holiday. Well that is ok, god did not bestow all the same talents to everyone (I mean come on what a boring world that would make). But man in all his great wisdom did create the Internet. In the vast nest of cyber space you will find all that massed produced junk like you can find at your local mall. However if you take the time to search a little harder you will find yourself in a Handmade Market Place.

This is the place were you should be doing your shopping, were people actually still take pride in their work and they really do care if you like the quality or not. These are people that when they get an email saying that they have a sale jump for joy and ride that high for 2 days.....hmmmm I don't think your local mall employee will show this kind of happiness from a sale.....

These market places are full of people with every conceivable talent that you could ever think of. They are like you and me, single mothers, people that have been laid off, people that scrimp and save to put food on the table and to provide the best life possible for their families. How are they different you ask? Well when they were in line in heaven God (or the higher power, whatever u believe) gave them a talent. Be it painting, glass blowing, wood burning or so on so forth you can find this well of talent on sites like Etsy, Artfire, Shophandmade and so on and so forth.

They have found the strength and the guts to do what they love to do. How many people can truly say that they love their job? That they look forward to it every single day? I know from personal experience, I have been in the Corporate world and made the corporate bucks, in the end it really just isn't worth it. The time away from your family the stress in your life it doesn't equate with that pay check you get at the end of the week.

So give your mom, dad, brother, sister, aunt, uncle, boyfriend, girlfriend a gift that was made with love and care. Yes it may not be made by you, but it also wasn't made in a factory across the ocean. It was made by someone who has a talent that they are trying to blossom into a business. Yes your family will be able to tell the difference, hehehe it won't break after a month of having it or it won't cost you a small fortune. Just know that by supporting the handmade movement, you are supporting all the artist out there that are like you in the fact that they also have a dream!

Ok so now that I have rambled on my soap box ..heheheh which I can because this is my damn blog and I can do what I want.......see being your own boss has it's perks.....heheheh.... Let me show you what is available for V Day and a little bit about those who created the items!!

First up is my personal friend and I will personally vouch for her work, she is Heather, from Heathers Handmade Creations. She doesn't know yet that she is being featured here...hehehehe... Heather is your girl for all of those cards that you should be sending. From gift tags, paper bag albums to your regular ole greeting card Heather's the place to go!!

Next up is Suds N Such: In this shop you will find different kinds of soaps, in fun shapes, and sinful smell. I asked Angie the owner what her inspiration was for her Pucker Up Soap Pops and she said: " I wanted to do something fun and sweet at the same time:) " Now these cute little pops come in a set of 4 for $2.70 (which is a sale price) you know your kids will love them, best of all when they are done playing with them, they can scrub a dub in the tub with them!!

Next is Gush4plush: In this shop you will find many different types of cute plush items! I thought the 2 Organic Catnip Valentine Fishy Cat Toys are adorable, I mean after all your pets are part of your family and they should get a V Day gift too and for $5.50 you will make your cats oh so happy! I asked Shannon the owner what her inspiration was for her Fishy Cat Toys and she said: " I created these Valentine Cat toys because I thought of my own cat and how special he is to us, why not give cats a valentine gift to show you love them too." I also asked Shannon what her best V Day ever was and she said: "My best Valentine's Day was my first one with my boyfriend (now husband), he had given me a simple gold ring with hearts on it. ♥"

The next shop is Anotherbrightidea this shop has the most unique blocks that I have seen! They are called Valentine alphabet blocks - Je'taime - Mon Amour and are adorable and a perfect and unique gift for your loved ones!! I asked the owner of Anotherbrightidea what her inspiration was for her Alphabet blocks and she said: "I posted vintage Christmas blocks in my shop at Christmas and I sold them all very quickly. So I thought - why not create blocks for other holidays? Decorations once used for a specific holiday have now been adapted to other holidays throughout the year (Decorated trees and ornaments, for example)." I also asked her what her very best V Day was, and she said: "Many years ago, I moved to San Francisco and my new boyfriend (who became my husband, then my ex-husband)took me out for a Valentine's Day that was very special. A dozen roses, and a night out for dinner, entertainment, and sightseeing in San Francisco - it was a wonderful day!"

The next shop is FranniesHeart, ok so I am a sucker for hearts..I love them and these were no exception they are adorable. I personally liked the Coffee Break heart, hehehe two things I love in life hearts and coffee. The fabric is just yummy and so is the color!! So give your heart to the one u love with one of FranniesHearts!! I asked Frannie what her inspiration was for the hearts and she said: " I made one for my son-in-law one day. He loves a good cup of coffee and loves to read...so this was a perfect fit. So now I include it in my shop. Ah, the lips aka Kiss Me Heart. I am lucky enough to have 2 wonderful quilt stores near me. They have the most wonderful cotton fabrics. Colors and patterns of all kinds. When I saw the lipstick print.....well, I just had to have it. Red lipstick for Valentine's Day.How alluring is that!? I also asked Frannie what her best V Day was and she said: "It's hard to pick just one "best" Valentine's Day...I love all the hand written notes from my husband the most. I save them all."

The final shop is Eugena777, in this shop you will find adorable pendants!! Once again hearts, and we all know how I fell about those!! I fell in love with the Heart Pendant, Faux Cloisonne, it is very unique. I love the shape of the heart and the colors used. I asked Eugena what her inspiration was for the creation of the pendant and she said: "Well, heart is such a universal and timeless symbol, I make them all year around. The one you mentioned is faux cloisonne, which is my own technique, involving polymer clay, resin, and wire. I developed it in 2005 while making a necklace for a contest organized by an International Jewelry Designers Guild. I wanted to make a piece in Art Nouveau style using polymer clay, because it is my primary material, and eventually came up with this faux cloisonne technique. I liked it so much, that it became my signature style. All my first pieces had flower motifs in Art Nouveau style, and only about a year later, when I started actively teaching this technique, I came up with a heart design, which was easier to demonstrate to my students. " I also asked Eugena what her best V day ever was and she said: " Perhaps one almost ten years ago. We lived in Missouri at that time, and the winter was particularly dreadful that year. In the middle of February, my husband and I took a few days off and drove to Mexico Golf. We spent Valentine's day walking on a beach in Galveston, TX. The day was nice and sunny, and very romantic. "

Well this is just a sample of what you can find in those handmade virtual marketplaces. As you can imagine when I started my search for those that wanted to be featured on this post I had tons of response. Unfortunately I can't show them all, as this is already I think the longest blog post in my blogging career! Hehhe so for all of you that responded and I was unable to feature, thanks for participating and I will keep your convo's for feature post!!

As you can see there is a wide variety of items to choose from in these Handmade Virtual Marketplaces, I just scratched the surface of what is available! So go brew yourself up a nice cup of coffee, get in your comfy recliner and start shopping using that ole laptop. I think you will be pleasantly surprised by what you find, and I also believe that those gifts that you get for your loved ones will be more special because they have been crafted with love!!

As always, be safe and be happy!!

**Hugs,**Angelica

Blog Contest Rule Change

2009-01-30T15:36:00.003-07:00

Ok all in the hope of generating more entries into the contest we are removing the scavanger hunt! All that is required for you to enter into the contest is to visti Heathers Art Fire Store and leave a comment on the official post as to what your favorite card is in her shop!! Also any purchases made from either Heather's Art Fire or Etsy shop will result in automatic entry in to the contest, u will get 2 entries for a purchase!!! See much simpler!!

Also to sweeten the pot I will be contributing a 8 oz container of my Chipotle Jalepeno Hummus to the winner!!

So come in and enter!!!

Another GREAT Etsy shop, txbutterfly74!!

2009-01-29T11:25:00.003-07:00

As all of you regular followers know I am addicted to the handmade movement and I love Etsy and Art Fire! Thanks to modern technology all you have to do is visit one of these awesome online marketplaces to find some very finely crafted items. It still amazes me that there is so much talent floating around cyber space!! Txbutterfly74's shop is one of these great cyber finds!

I met this lovely lady through my other Etsy friend Heather, from Heathers Handmade Creations. TX has a lovely shop on Etsy where you can find some very unique pendants to Aceo's!! Her work is superb, I recently ordered a pendant from her for my sister! A cute black cat!! They pendant arrived in a flash and it was really an awesome piece of work!! So when I find those that are masters at their crafts I have to share it with the world!! After all I can't be too selfish.....hehehehe....

So I did a little interview with TX, and here it is!!

Tell us a little about yourself: My name is Cherilyn and I will be 35 years old in February. I moved to beautiful Austin, Texas in August of 2000 from South Florida with my long term boyfriend, Alexis . We have three beautiful dogs. Alexis and I love to collect vintage musical instruments. Haha what TX forgets to mention is that she paints....I have yet to see her work, but I will continue to pester her about it!!

Your store has a wide range of items from chic pendants to adorable tags, what inspires you to create all these adorable items? My Inspiration comes from a lot of sources like nature, music, colors, life or other creative people. I absolutely love to brainstorm with someone to help both of our inspirations shine. It's a beautiful thing!

What are some of your favorite shops on the net? Oh my goodness! Everyone is so talented on Etsy! I am so addicted to these shops, checking on the multiple times a day to see what they are doing!

Here are a few of TX's Fave Shops:

Miss Avocado : Very cute Aceo's

Nushkie Design : Needle and Wet Felted Creations to Treasure
AmberSky's : Very Cute Jewelry

Heathers Handmade Creations: Awesome Cards and Tags

Hillsidebakery's: Some VERY awesome fudge!!! Hehhe she has other stuff too!

Well besides being a great artist TX is a VERY sweet lady!! So do yourself a favor this V Day and give her shop a try!! You won't be disappointed!! Hehheh I would also check out her fave shops, there are some really awesome items!!

As always be happy and be safe!!

**Hugs

Angelica

Al Dente..huh???

2009-01-28T09:47:00.004-07:00

Al Dente is a term that is used to tell you what your pasta should be cooked like. Al Dente means that your pasta should still be a little firm or have a "bite" to it. After all who wants a bowl Spaghetti mush? That doesn't form a pretty picture in my mind!

Now know how you want your pasta cooked and actually executing it, well those can really be two different things!! First and foremost you need to start out with a BIG pot, I mean a BIG pot an 8quarter!! The pasta needs room to swim around, if there isn't enough room your going to end up with a big lump of pasta instead of beautiful individual strands! So go on fill the pot up with cold water. Personally I like to salt the water now that way as it heats up it has time to dissolve into the water, how much salt well I put two generous handfuls.... the experts at my Fav magazine Bon Apettie suggest 3 tbs for every 5 quarts of water, so for the 8 quarter you are looking at about 4.5 tbs and they suggest throwing your salt in after the water has started to boil. Do what you like, when u salt it really isn't going to effect how the end product comes out....just make sure that you do salt it!!

So now that your water is salted and it is boiling it is time to add in the pasta. Make sure that you stir it right away so that it doesn't stick remember we want individual strands not a lump!! If your past is tall light spaghetti take some tongs and give it a twist to make sure that it is fully submerged! Hehehe but if you are being good and using the suggested 8 quart pot, a doubt that the pasta is going to be taller than the pot......now this is the time to add oil or not to add oil. The DL on the oil is this, it isn't going to stop your pasta from sticking as has been suggested, but it will keep your pot from boiling over, but then again if you are using the proper size pot it shouldn't boil over. So it is up to you weather or not you want to add the oil!!

I say check your pasta about six minutes in (now this is for your hard pasta, fresh pasta will cook in like a minute!!) as Bon Appetie suggest when the pasta begins to soften start tasting it, ummm but how long does it take to soften would be my question. So I six minutes in take a strand out and take a taste, but for god sakes be careful it is going to be HOT!! Now when u bite it it shouldn't be mushy but it also shouldn't be hard as a rock. If it is still a little to hard for you let it cook for a couple more minutes and then re test it. Most pasta is done in about 8-10 minutes. It just depends on the shape and type of pasta. Typically your whole grain pasta's will take a little longer to cook as they seem to be denser.

Ok so your pasta is done, you want to strain it in a colander or if you are really cool your 8 quarter may come with it's on colander and when u remove the pasta from it, it comes out strained. Unfortunately I don't have one of those yet...hmmmm will have to hint at the BF for one of those....oooo and V day is coming up...heheheh..... Ok back on top Angelica, sorry but I would love one of those pots! Now don't rinse your pasta because the starch that is on it is what helps whatever sauce you are going to be coating it with stick!! Now if you are worried about it sticking this is the time to add in some oil, about a tablespoon of extra virgin OO.

Another hit is that if you are going to be adding the pasta to a sauce that is cooking and u plan on leaving the pasta in the cooking sauce for a bit, you will want to under cook the pasta. Otherwise you are going to end up with mushy pasta!! NO don't try it, don't try cooking your pasta in the sauce to save a pan. Your sauce will be screwed up!! Remember as pasta cooks it releases starch and that starch is a thickener!! You will end up with a big lump instead of a tasty sauce and noodles!! Ummm yeah I know from experience, it isn't pleasant!!

Well I hope this helps you guys on your pasta adventures!! Oh and btw if you haven't entered the blog contest ENTER IT NOW!!! You will be in love with Heather's cards!! Oh and since I am shamelessly self promoting right now, I expect to see you all at the Team Eeat Bake Sale tonight in the Etsy labs!! It starts at 8pm Est!!!!

Alright I am outtie, so be happy and be safe!!

**Hugs
Angelica

And the Contest Begins.......

2009-01-25T10:29:00.008-07:00

It's almost time for the blog contest to start!! WOOT!! WOOT!!! Tonight at midnight is the official start!! So you have all been wondering what you are going to be looking for in this scavenger hunt.... well I am here to end the suspense.. you will be looking for a picture of Hunter:

Isn't it a great pic? Luca did this pencil portrait of Hunter for Heather!! Luca is a VERY talented Etsy artist!! Now don't think you will be able to go looking ahead of time, the pic will not be hidden until later on Today!!

Let's Review the rules!!

1. Take a trip to Heathers Handmade Creations
2. Look for the Picture of Hunter in her listings, there will be 3
3. Email me the name of the listings where you found Hunters Pics
4. Come back often and leave comments on the Official Post, the more comments you leave, the more chances to win!!
5. If you purchase anything from Heathers Handmade Creations during the contest you are automatically entered in the contest with 2 entries!!
6. Contest Duration, Midnight tonight (arizona time) until Midnight (arizona time) 2/06/09!!

What are you going to win? Well you have your choice between a set of Heathers adorable Cherry note cards or your choice of any of the cards in Heather's shop that total the value of her note cards (which is two cards)!!

Ok so that about covers's it!! We are expecting to have a ton of entries as this contest will be part of the bloggie carnival that is going on! So come back often to leave your comments!!

Be safe, Be Happy!!

**Hugs
Angelica

Are you in the KNOW for January?

2009-01-24T10:24:00.008-07:00

My oh my, I thought December was a busy month!! I have sooooo much stuff going on right now that I don't know if I am coming or going!! So are you guys on top of all the events going on in January?? Well I am going to give you a quick peek into what I think are some cool happenings!!

First and foremost is my Blog Giveaway!! It Starts on Monday, 1/26/o9 and runs through February 6th, 2009. Some beautiful cards are being given away by Heather's Handmade Creations! I am completely addicted to her store!! She has everything from gift tags to Pet Sympathy cards. Her work is superb and she is an AWESOME lady! So be ready to enter that contest!!

My blog contest brings me to the second event as they go hand in hand the Bloggie Carnival! It is hosted by Bloggy Givaways.com. It happens once every quarter! The DL is that it is a huge carnival, the "booths" are people that are all having give aways on their blogs!! It is a HUGE event with tons of exposure and tons of GREAT giveaways!! So if you have never participated now is the time to check it out!!

The next event is Team Eeats Valentines Virtual Bake Sale!! The bake sale is on Wednesday, January 28th in the Etsy Labs! If you love food and want to know more about those people that you see in chat with all the yummy treats then the Bake Sale is for you!! Each Team Eeat member will do a little presentation about their shop and their goodies. There will also be GAMES, PRIZES and GREAT deals on all of the delectable treats!! Team Eeat is also hosting it's own blog contest.....yes FREEE FOOOD...run...run to Team Eeat's Blog for complete details!! Heheh nothing like a shameless plug........... I am a part of the Bake Sale and am running an AWESOME sale in A Thyme To Bee Comforted, BOGO of equal or lesser value for half off!

Wow that is a lot of info!! Not to mention I am trying to get stuff ready for V Day as that is just around the corner!!! What do you guys have going on for V day? Email me, and I will do a what's hot for V Day Blog Post on February 1st!!

Be happy, be safe!!

**Hugs
Angelica

Most important kitchen gadget??

2009-01-21T10:32:00.006-07:00

With all the kitchen gadgets out there, what do you think is the most important?

Well I will tell you what I deem the most important, it is your knives!! Why? Well because next to your pans, they are the most used item in your kitchen and frankly your awesome pans aren't going to do you any good if you can't properly cut anything up!! You really need to spend the money on a good set of knives, and this doesn't mean buy the set from the infomercial at 3 am, because it can cut through a can!! Remember, you get what you pay for, if it is 19.99 it isn't a good knife, I don't care what they say it can cut through!

You need a knife that is extremely sharp, well balanced and that has some weight to it. Weight, why weight you ask? Well the weight will help you in your dicing, chopping and julienning!! A little weight means less effort on your part! Extremely sharp is also VERY imporatant, a dull knife is an UNSAFE knife! Yes I know that sounds odd, but it is true! Dull knives have a tendency to slip when you are trying to cut veggies etc and can result in you taking a nice slice off of your finger....ummm I have been there and done that one....not a pleasant experience!! Also if the knife is dull, what you are trying to prep maybe ruined especially if it is soft like a tomato or mango! You will end up with mush if your knife is dull!!

In my kitchen you will find Henckels I love them (Wustof is another great brand)! I would not go back to the 19.99 knife ever! Once you use a high quality knife you will turn your nose up at the rest. They slice through a tomatoes like butter and they stay sharp for a good while! They can also be re-sharpened! A good set of knives is a great investment because they will last for years! I bought my set of Henckels at Costco (which is the best place to buy them if u can find them) I got an awesome deal on a whole set!! Let me tell u they are expensive when you go to the regular store, so when u see them at Costco snap the up!! Yes I know u will freak at them being over $100 dollars but trust me that is cheap for a whole set. Just the chef knife if you were to buy it alone would run u about 80 smackers!! Think of it as a life time investment, it will make the price tag a little easier to swallow!

Well now that you are going to go out and buy a great set of knives, you may want to know a little about how to properly use them. So I found this video that explains basic techniques! It is a pretty good video!! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VahnQw2gTQY

Well I hope that you take the time to go out and find yourself a great set of knives! Hey its shopping and it fun, plus it will make it easier for you to turn out some fantastic dinners for your family!!

As always be safe and have fun!!

**hugs

Angelica

OFFICAL BLOG POST FOR: Heathers Handmade Creations Blog Give Away

2009-01-19T10:29:00.011-07:00

As previously announced I will be hosting a contest for one of my dear Etsy friends, Heather from Heathers Handmade Creations!! Heather has two shops one on Etsy (where we met) and another on Art Fire, this contest will be ran in connection with her Art Fire shop!! To find out a little bit more about Heather and her beautiful cards vist my previous blog post! Alright peeps, I know you have been waiting for the giveaway info so here is the DL:

Prize: Heather from Heathers Handmade Creations will be giving away your choice of either her Cherry Note Cards or cards that total up to the Value of her cherry note cards!!

Contest Begins: Midnight Monday, January 26 - Midnight Friday, February 6th., the contest is also part of the Bloggy Carnival!! I love the bloggy carnival, tons of great prizes to be won!!

How To Play: This contest will be a scavenger hunt. You will be looking for the item in Heater's shop listings at: Heathers Handmade Creations. I will announce the photo you will be looking for on the 25th! You will need to email me the location of the three items that are hidden to be entered into the contest! Remember the more comments you leave on this post, the more your chances to win are increased!!! Also you will only be entered to win if you email me the listing info with the hidden items, you must do this!!!

THE CONTEST IS NOW OPEN!! YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A PIC OF HUNTER:

I hope you have a blast with this contest!!! Heathers cards are soooo cute ! You will love your prize!! As always, be safe, be happy!!

**hugs
Angelica

BAKE SALE!!!!!!!!!!!!! Did u hear a BAKE SALE!?!??!!?

2009-01-16T10:07:00.002-07:00

Team EEAT presents our Virtual Valentine's Bake Sale! Held on January, 28th, 2009 in Esty's Virtual Labs at 8pm EST!Come see our team members present their beautiful work. There will be great contests, sales, and amazing giveaways! Start shopping early by searching for "team eeat"!

Why should I come? Trivia Questions! Answer a Valentines day trivia question, and win a $5 gift credit in a Team members shop!Giveaway! We will be giving away a grand prize worth over $100! Plus, 2 prizes worth $20 each! Prizes will be delivered just in time for Valentines Day!

Blog post coming soon on ways to enter! Get your Valentines Day shopping done early! Sales offered:

http://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=">JustBakin' FREE Chocolate Cookies with every order.
http://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=">LuckyDogTreatCompanyFREE bag of treats of Lucky's choice with any sized order!
DoubleDippedSweetsBuy one get one 50% off!Equal or lesser value applies; full shipping charges incurred.
http://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=">SweetTreatMaryannFREE Chocolate Covered Grahams (3) with a purchase of any size
ASugarAffair1/2 dozen chocolate covered oreos with with each product bought
http://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=">athyme2bcomfortedBOGO half off of equal or lesser value
http://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=">DelectableDelightsFor the Love of Chocolate25% off all chocolate covered items10% off everything else
http://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=">LittleSnowflakes3 FREE Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Truffles with Each Order**Order is refers to a completed Credit Card Transaction
CiaoHound20% off your purchase, before shipping!free priority shipping for orders over $15
http://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=">CakesbySugarPlums2 FREE Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes with any purchase

Stay tuned for more great sales!

The Chicken...Organic, Natural....Free Range...huh.....??

2009-01-13T10:30:00.003-07:00

So today lets talk about chicken!! Yes it is that blank canvas that is healthy and has the capacity to take on the flavor of any of the spices or marinades that you decide to throw at it. Now a days there are sooooooooooooo many labels being thrown at food that it is hard to keep them all straight, and exactly what do they really mean? Well we are going to find out together!!

Organic Chickens: Are fed a diet with no additives, not treated with antibiotics and raised under specific, humane conditions. Which are the requirements of the USDA.

Natural Chickens: Contain no artificial ingredients or added color. But unless the label reads "no antibiotics", there is no guarantee that there aren't any.

Free-Range Chickens: These are chickens that are allowed some room to roam outside the coop, but how much room isn't regulated. Not all free ranged chickens are raised on a natural diet.

Ok now we know what each means, but what does this really mean to you? It all comes down to what do you want to spend?!? Well I am a food snob and I don't buy my meat from Fry's or any other regular grocery store as the quality really does suck! What would I buy, I buy the Natural Chicken from Aj's or Fresh and Easy. AJ's and Fresh and Easy are here in AZ I am not sure if they are all over the country or not. The quality of meat is very apparent. Once you see a high quality product and compare it to what is in your regular grocery store you well be AMAZED at the difference. I have seen the Natural chicken and the Organic. They are both high quality, but I would rather spend $7 bucks a pound than $11.50.

Ok, Ok, close your mouth now....I know $7 bucks a pounds is a lot too! Here is what I figure, food is like going to the doctor. You don't want to got to an eye surgeon that is offering a BOGO free special...hello they are your eyes!! Food is the same, it is fuel for your body and provides you with the protein, vitamins etc that you need to keep on living. So this is NOT the place to be cheap, especially when it comes to your meats, fish and veggies!

If it makes you feel better spend the cash on the good meats, fish and veggies and then buy off brand cereals, soda's etc! Ok so this is my opinion, you all have the right to disagree...the 1st amendment and all......but do me one favor take a trip to your local grocery store and then go to an Aj's or a Fresh and Easy. Look at the color, the texture of the meat. It is completely different! Why you ask, because what is in the grocery store is older! Umm not thanks I want something that hasn't sat at the place that they butchered them for 2 weeks and then shipped them out and then has sat at the grocery store for lord knows how long....ok ok...I am back on my soap box again!

Well this concludes another tip/trick segment. Hopefully you have learned something useful!! Be safe, Be happy and go and LOOK at the difference in the meat........hehheheheh

*hugs
Angelica

You Can DOoo It.....Ricotta that is!!

2009-01-06T08:21:00.003-07:00

Well who doesn't like cheese? I love the stuff, put it on a bumper and I would eat it bumper and all!! One of my favorite cheeses is Ricotta! Why you ask, well because it is a very versatile cheese it can be used in savory or sweet applications. I also like the texture some where between cottage cheese and cream cheese. Be it in a Lasagna or stuffed into a Ravioli I love me some Ricotta in my home made marinara........mmmmmm.... great it's 7 in the morning and I am already making myself hungry!!

So in honor of my favorite cheese I found instructions on how to make it your self at home!! Yes I said YOU can make your own Ricotta!! Alright lets' get to the good stuff and give you the skinny on how to wow your friends with your own homemade Ricotta!!

What you will need:

8 cups of whole milk
1 tsp salt
3 tbs fresh lemon juice

Makes: 1.5 cups

Execution:

1. Line a medium colander with for layers of cheesecloth. Set the cheesecloth-lined colander in the sink. You can purchase cheesecloth at your local grocery store, I bought some at Fry's.
2. Bring the whole milk and salt to a simmer in a large, heavy-duty saucepan over medium heat.
3. Stir in the fresh lemon juice. Reduce heat to a simmer. Simmer the milk mixture gently until curds form, usually one to two minutes.
4. Using a slotted spoon or mesh skimmer, transfer the curds to the prepared colander. Let them drain for only a minute.
5. Transfer the ricotta to a medium bowl. It can be served right away, or covered and chilled for up to two days.

Really 5 steps to have my own home made ricotta? That is just awesome! Ok so now you have all this ricotta lyin around your house.....what to do ....what to do......oh I know have a dinner party and WOW your guest with your mad Ricotta making skills!!! Try this recipe out and have your friends do a double take and beg to be invited to your house for dinner again!!!

Oh this little gem is from one of my most favorite mags, Bon Appetit!!

Appetizer: Figs and Onion Bruschetta (umm helllo cheese and bread.....)

Makes: 8

Ingredients:

Figs:

.5 cup dried black Mission figs, stemmed, halved (I have seen fresh figs at Costco, dried I would think my local AJ's would have them or Whole Foods)
1 cup boiling water
3/4 C dry red wine
2 tbs sugar
1 small bay leaf
1/8 tsp coarse kosher salt (you can buy this at Frys or Penzeys)
1 tsp red wine vinegar

Onion:

1.5 tsp butter
1.5 tsp extra virgin olive oil
1 medium red onion, halved through core, cut lengthwise into .5" strips (take a whole onion, cut in half where the root knob thing is, once you have cut it in half take one half and with the root end pointing to the left start slicing slowly and care fully)
2 tbs red wine vinegar
.5 tsp sugar
pinch of coarse kosher salt

Ricotta:

1 cup fresh ricotta cheese (YES THE ONE THAT YOU MADE, this is where the double take comes in from your friends!!)
1 tbs extra-virgin olive oil plus additional for drizzling
1 tsp heavy whipping cream
pinch coarse kosher salt
8 1-inch-thick slices ciabatta bread (about 4.5x2 inches) (Cibatta is that big square bread)
1/4 c grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbs chopped fresh oregano

Execution:

Figs:

Place figs in small bowl. Pour 1c boiling water over; let soak 45 minutes
Drain figs; place in a small saucepan.
Add wine and next 3 ingredients from above; bring to a boil, stirring to dissolve sugar.
Reduce heat to medium once sugar has dissolved (you will know sugar is dissolved when you don't feel that graininess when stirring)
Simmer until figs are tender and liquid is syrupy, stirring occasionally, about 20 minutes. Add vinegar and cook 1 minute longer. Remove pan from heat and cool.

Onions:

Melt butter with oil in medium skillet over medium high heat. Add onion; saute until beginning to soften and brown stirring occasionally, about 4 minutes.
Reduce heat to low; add vinegar and sugar, then sprinkle with coarse salt and pepper.
Stir until vinegar has almost evaporated about 1 minute.

Ricotta:

Whisk ricotta, 1 tbs oil, and cream in a medium bowl until fluffy.
Season with coarse salt and pepper.
Preheat broiler
Drizzle Cibatta with some olive oil and sprinkle with coarse salt & pepper.
Broil bread on both sides until toasted (ok don't walk away from the bread in the broiler it will brown VERY quickly...this means DON'T answer the phone, answer your kids questions, let the dog out etc...because your bread will burn!!!)
Transfer to serving plate

Assembly:

Spread 2 tbs ricotta mixture on each bread slice.
Spoon glazed figs with some syrup over, top with onion mixture.
Sprinkle with Parmesan and oregano
Drizzle with oil and serve immediately (as for the oil, I would go to your local AJ's or Whole Foods and pick up some Meyer Lemon flavored olive oil, I think a little hint of citrus would help bring out the flavor in the Ricotta!!)

Hehhehe your friends are going to love you!! To keep that ricotta theme going you could always make some homemade lasagna. No time you say, well then that is when you visit my little shop, A Thyme To Bee Comforted. What do you know I have lasagna in there, yes yes I know you didn't make it....don't worry I won't tell!! Your friends won't know either just plate it and throw out the packaging evidence!!

Well I hope that you try your hand at making your own Ricotta and try the recipe above!! If you do, come and post and let us know how it all went!! Well here ends another tip and tricks segment, I hope that you enjoyed! Be safe! Be Happy!!

**Hugs

Angelica

Man's Best Friends also should enjoy Divine Treats!!

2009-01-05T10:19:00.007-07:00

You know who they are those little guys or girls that follow you around with there big brown eyes. They love you unconditionally and you are the center of their world. Yes your pets!! They are members of your family too and they DESERVE special treats too!! Well I found a GREAT lady who makes divine treats for the smallest (or in some cases the largest) members of your family!! Here name is Jessica and she is the owner of Divine Canine.

I purchased some of Jessica's treats for my dog Bear. My Bear is a little poof of fur as he is a Pom! Let me tell you he LOVED her treats, he begs and sits with a twinkle in his eye each time I take out one of those little delectable treats!! The treats came with lab test results and were also packaged adorably! My suggestion is go for it, buy your little bud some treats from Divine Canine! He or she will only love you more!! I suggest the Carbo Dipped Peanut Butter Paws and the Bitty Bites, which are what I bought. Let me tell you I was tempted to take a bite out of the Peanut Butter Paws, and so was my son!! They smelled really tasty!!

Well I also did a little interview with Jessica, because I know you all are a curious sort! Here is the interview:

Tell us a little about yourself:

My name is Jessica, I am 38 years old and blind. I've only been totally blind about 8 years now. I have an awesome 7 year old boy, and a wonderful hubby. Not a picture perfect life, but getting there! I just started my own dog bakery business about 6 months ago. A bit slow going with the economy as it is...especially living in Michigan. I graduated from Western Michigan University with a grad degree in blind rehab teaching. Loosely translates to helping others who have
become blind to deal with and enjoy life, and function independently with their blindness/low vision. Oh, and I used to be a graphic design major, but sadly had to give it up once I lost my sight. Self-explanatory, right? Anyway, I love pets and have lots of them, and I love to make healthy treats and meals for my dogs, rats and sugar glider. I would cook for my snakes and lizards, but they have a very boring diet that they prefer to stick with. That's all I can think of for now! Oh, and I do lots of cooking and baking for my human family as well!

What are your dogs fave treats?

Scarlet is not picky, we call her Scarlet the scarfer. India, however, is a bit more selective with her taste buds. She loves my pumpkin treats the most. She loves them so much that once after I'd taken out the pumpkin biscotti from the oven and left the room, I heard her pop the tray off the stove top. By the time I got to her, she had eaten the whole pan in less than 5 minutes! She goes absolutely crazy for pumpkin!

Well now you know a little about Jessica and her love for her pets!! She is really an amazing lady to be able to do all that she does given her situation. You also have to give her props for her positive outlook and very friendly personality!! If you want to know more about Jessica and her treats you can also visit her on her blog: http://divinecaninedogpantry.blogspot.com/

Well go on go buy some doggie treats, you know you want to. You can get here treats in two places on the web, Etsy and Art Fire. Here are her direct links: Divine Canine on Etsy and Divine Canine on AF

Well tune in tomorrow for my Tips and Tricks segement!! Be good and be safe!!

**Hugs

Angelica

Rice a different face

2008-12-30T08:58:00.006-07:00

Hahahha so as promised today's tip segment! Now this tip comes from my house to yours! It is a little strange, but effective. So you love your white rice, your Spanish rice, your sticky rice and so on and so forth. We know rice as one of those blank canvases that is fantastic at absorbing flavor!

Well have you ever gone into your cabinet and pulled out your chili powder or your garlic powder and found it all clumpy and your like wtf?? Well that is because there is moisture in the air and it cause it to clump. Kinda like when you are trying to shake paprika into a steaming pan of chili, the moisture makes it bind up!

Now some states have more moisture than others, like TX. I lived there as a kid, and besides bad hair days (I looked like Bozo the clown) our spices would all clump together, even our salt! I grew up not knowing any different until we moved from TX, I though everyone had a salt shaker on the table that was a quarter of the way filled up with rice. YES I SAID RICE!! LOL, I remember doing this when I got my apartment here in AZ back in the day. My BF (Jared) was like wtf, why is there rice in our salt shaker? Hheheheh well in AZ for the most part the humidity is low and there is no need for the rice, but well as we all know childhood habits die hard!!

So the tip well get your rice out, and fill your shakers a quarter full of rice. You need to make sure that the holes in your shaker are small enough so that the rice doesn't come out when you are using it! Now if you can't find a shaker with small enough holes, don't panic! Just unscrew the shaker lid, get a piece of cheese cloth and cut out a circle that is the size of the lid. Then put the cheese cloth in the lid and viola, spices come out rice stays in! Best of all no more clumps!!

Ok, ok so you all want a fast rice recipe don't you? Well I have one for you. You want to dress up that plain ole white rice here is what you do:

Ingredients:

1 cup long grain rice
2 cups water
2 tsp salt
1 8 oz container Mango Papaya Salsa ( can be found at: A Thyme To Bee Comforted )
1 Large lemon zested and juiced
.250 C Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1 tsp Black Pepper
1 tsp Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
1 tsp Italian seasoning

So in a medium sauce pan bring the 2C of water and 1 tsp of salt to a boil. Once water is boiling add 1 cup of long grain rice. Turn heat down to medium low and cook until all water is gone, about 20 minutes.

In a small mixing bowl add additional tsp of salt, lemon juice and zest, black pepper, crushed red pepper, and Italian seasoning. Give it a quick whisk, and then while still whisking slowly pour in the Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Once the consistency has thickened and it looks like a vinaigrette you are done! If you don't want to whisk add all of the ingredients except EVOO into a food processor or a blender. Give it a quick pulse. Then put it on low and slowly stream in the EVOO, until it thickens up!

Now add the vinaigrette to your rice and let it cook on low for a couple of minutes, until the rice soaks up some of the Vinaigrette. Then turn off the heat and add in the Mango Papaya salsa and viola you are done!!

Pare it with a nice chicken breast and you have a healthy and tasty meal!!

Well I hope you give my tip a try and give the above recipe a try! I am sure you won't be disappointed!! Well I am outtie for the day, tomorrow is New Years Eve so I have shopping to do! We will be dining on Wantons, Baby Back Ribs, and maybe some spring rolls! I hope you all have a SAFE and Happy New Year!! I will see you all back here in 2009!!!!

**Hugs
Angelica

Love, Love and more LOVE!!!

2008-12-29T15:29:00.004-07:00

Ok so I know I was suppose to publish my tips segment and I have been bad and didn't do it today. I PROMISE I will do it tomorrow!! Today I wanted to share some of the stuff that I have been working on!

Yes I know we aren't even into the new year yet, but I must plan ahead!! So the next holiday is Valentine's Day, and yes I have been hard at work thinking of something for the day of love. So far what have I come up with, well I did a gift basket! Not your typical gift basket either, this one is a complete dinner for two!! It will have my Spicy Asian Wantons for the Appetizer, for the Entree it will have my Lasagna for Two and for the Dessert you will have a choice between my Raspberry Marscapone Cup Cake or my Lemon Curd Trifle. I am also thinking of doing some chocolate covered strawberries, but first I must go and test all of those out!

So if you don't know what to give your loved ones for V day send them a very special gift basket, nothing says lovin like tasty treats!!

My other topic on today's agenda is to let you know that I have been firming up the date for our next give away. I have determined that it will run from January 26 until February 6th! It will be a scavenger hunt. As for the prize Heather is still figuring out what she wants to do! I will give you guys more details as soon as we are closer to the time of the give away!!

Well New Years is this week, so be SAFE!!! Don't do anything I wouldn't do, and have FUN!!!

**Hugs
Angelica

The DL on Art Fire

2008-12-25T19:37:00.005-07:00

Hi all!

I just signed up with a GREAT new site to peddle my treats; Artfire!! They are running in Beta mode right now, but let me tell you so far I have been VERY impressed with their customer service and the ability to roll out fixes and new services on their site! I was having an issue and not only did I get a prompt email, but I also got a phone call!! A PHONE CALL can you believe it?!?!?!? Well I couldn't, my mouth fell open when I listened to my VM!! Oh here is my Art Fire shop, same name as my Etsy shop, A Thyme To Bee Comforted.

Art Fire has no selling fees, as in re listing, or a percentage of what you sell. You can have a "free" account or right now they are having $7.00 a month for the next 3k that sign up. Which is a flat fee and VERY reasonable. I spend at least that much in one of my Etsy accounts per month, I have two Etsy accounts and I typically spend about $15 bucks in each of my stores to re-list, list etc. That also doesn't include the % that they take from my sales. Not that I am complaining because I also love Etsy, they have been good to me! But if I can sell my products and have less $ taken from my pocket I am all for it!!

Like I said AF is still in Beta mode, so if you sign up make sure that you keep in mind that they are in Beta mode and there will be glitches!! But the AF staff is very quick to respond to issues that you post in their forums aka Chatter Box. Also the people in the community have been VERY helpful!! I think it will be a GREAT place to grow my business with!

Hheheheh if you sign up with AF because of my Blog make sure to mention me when you sign up, they have perks........we all love perks!!!

All Right I hope you all had a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS!! Alas I am addicted to my computer so I had to pop in and work on my AF store, so that I am ready to roll for the new year!!

**Hugs
Angelica

Decembers Contest Winner: Suanne Giddings

2008-12-22T07:57:00.005-07:00

A Thyme To Bee Comforted December contest is over, and a very lucky lady has become the winner of a $25.00, gift cert to use in my other shop A Time 2B Unique!!! Suanne is that lucky lady!! Can everyone give her a woot woot!?!?!?!?!?

So I did a mini interview with Suanne as I am sure all of you our a little curious about the winner!! Here is the DL on the interview:

Wow! What a delightful surprise! You have some lovely items in your shop!!! I think I also visited your other store with all of the delicious food, but I couldn't check because it is closed for Christmas. (yes for all of you foodies A Thyme To Bee Comforted is closed for Christmas, but we will be re-opening January 2nd!!)

Where did you hear about my blog contest?: I'm not sure exactly where I found your blog contest. I have a group of friends that email each other items of interest, I do searches, and some of the other blogs tell readers about contests.

What Comforts you when you are feeling blue?: As a general rule, just being with my daughter chases my blues away. She is such a sweetheart!!! If that fails, bring on the chocolate!

Tell us a little about yourself, ie favorite food, color etc: Let's see. My favorite food. Hmm... I guess it is almost anything Paula Deen cooks. I love all colors but purple -- and I have no idea why certain colors of purple can be so unpleasant to me. I guess an analyst would certainly trace it back to an event in my childhood. My most enjoyable time is spent at my computer, but I hate to type. I use the Biblical method -- seek and ye will find (hunt and peck).

Are you an Etsy Seller?: I am not a seller on Etsy, but I will probably be a buyer when my personal finances make an upward swing. There are a lot of nice things that I have found. Thank you for making me a winner!

Suanne you seem like a really fun lady!! I am so glad you participated in my contest and took the time to reply to all of my questions!! Lol on the biblical method....that really made me laugh, you and my BF have something in common!! What a great interview!! Well I hope you have fun shopping, I know you wanted to check out some stuff in A Thyme To Bee Comforted, you can go to the sales link on my shop to see the kind of food that I have sold in the past! Or you can wait until January to get your fill of some yummy treats!

Well this contest just like last month has put a smile on my face, and I am already working on January's contest! She was featured on my blog a couple months ago (blog link); Heather from Heathers Handmade Creations will be ponying up the prize for January. I still have some details to iron out, but keep on the look out!! Once everything has been finalized I will blast email all of those on my mailing list, so if you aren't on the list email me and I will add you or become a blog follower!!

For those of you that follow the blog I will be posting this weeks Tip/Trick of the week tomorrow, as Suanne needs her day in the sun!!

Christmas is near, so be on your best behavior and spread some cheer!! Love and kisses from my family to yours!!

*Hugs
Angelica

The Incredible Edible Leek

2008-12-17T08:26:00.005-07:00

Ok so I know I am late in posting this tips and tricks segment. I have a good excuse though I have been busy with orders from my store A Thyme To Bee Comforted! Busy is always good, but with busy also comes problems, i.e the Post Office, they are on my list this month....grrrr......

Well enough about that! So today's tip and trick is the Leek! A leek you say, what the hell is a leek. It's that thing at the grocery store that looks like a green onion on steroids!!! Wikipedia defines the leek as:

Allium ampeloprasum var. porrum(L.) J.Gay
The leek, Allium ampeloprasum var. porrum (L.), also sometimes known as Allium porrum, is a vegetable which belongs, along with the onion and garlic, to the Alliaceae family. Two related vegetables, the elephant garlic and kurrat, are also variant subspecies of Allium ampeloprasum, although different in their uses as food. The edible part of the leek plant is a bundle of leaf sheaths which is sometimes called a stem or stalk.

Why use a leek you may ask, well because it has a subtle onion flavor, not strong at all. It's darn tasty to!!! You also might be thinking to yourself well what tips or tricks could you possibly have for a leek??? Well the tip is on how to to wash a leek. A leek is like an onion it has many layers, and the stem is open not as tight as a green onion. So dirty etc tend to get stuck in the stems! So how do we was a leek, well there are two ways:

1. To wash a whole Leek halve the leek length wise, splay open the layers, and run water over them until your sure that all the grit has been removed. See pretty straight forward and simple!

2. To wash sliced Leeks soak the sliced leeks in a bowl of cold water. Let them stand undisturbed for about ten minutes to let the grit fall to the bottom of the bowl. Scoop the leeks out gently, taking care not to stir up the grit. Pat the leeks dry.

Now that you have some clean leeks what can you do with them, well you can make Home At Least Leek Salad, the recipe is courtesy of the Food Network (one of my fave sites).

Ingredients

Dressing:

3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
2 to 3 sprigs thyme, stripped from stems
1 teaspoon stone-ground mustard
1 garlic clove, lightly crushed with the side of a knife blade and quartered
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
3/4 cup olive oil

Salad:

6 leeks, soaked in salt water to remove grit and thoroughly rinsed
2 tablespoons to 1/4 cup olive oil
6 ears fresh corn, boiled until tender and cooled to room temperature
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil or if dehydrated soaked in water to rehydrate
6 small sprigs parsley

Directions:

Through the feed opening of a running blender add, 1 at a time, vinegar, thyme, mustard, garlic, honey, salt, and ground black pepper. Leaving the blender running, slowly add the olive oil in a thin stream. Set aside until needed.
Slice the white and tender green parts of the leeks into 1/2-inch diagonals. Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a skillet and saute until tender. Set aside to cool to room temperature.
Slice the corn from the cobs and place in a bowl with the sauteed leeks. Cut the sun-dried tomatoes into 1/2-inch pieces and add to the bowl. Toss with enough of the dressing to coat. Do not feel compelled to use all of the dressing.
Serve garnished with parsley and additional dressing on the side.

There are over 700 hundred recipes for leeks on the Food Network site, so if you haven't ever cooked with likes I suggest you give them a try and you might surprise yourself! They make a great soup!! Well thanks for joining me in this late but great tips and tricks segment......I am off to finish up my Pecan Brittle order! Here is wishing you and your family a safe and HAPPY Holiday season!!

Hugs!

Angelica

Scared to Fry??? Don't Be!!

2008-12-08T09:35:00.005-07:00

Spicy Asian Wontons

Good Morning All!!

Here is hoping that it is a sunny and happy morning in your neighborhood!! Well it is Monday, and time for another tip/ trick segment!!

Today we are tackling your fear of frying!!! Let's be honest frying is a scary thing, all of that hot oil inches from your skin, splashes of it flying in the air when you putt your chicken or fries in. I fry often and I am still intimidated by the oil, and yes I have been burned more than once, but it each time it has been my carelessness that has caused the burns!!

The number one rule when frying PAY ATTENTION, this isn't the time to be answering the phone, or answering one of your kids million questions!! This is NOT the time to multi task!!

That being said there are some ways to eliminated or reduce the intimidation factor. The easy way to do this is to go out and buy yourself an actual deep fryer!! Now when selecting a fryer you need to keep a couple of things in mind.

1. The most important of them all, how easy is it going to be to clean. Sure it is easy to pour the oil into the fryer, but you need to remember at some point you will be having to take dirty oil out of that puppy!! My suggestion is to find one that you actually remove the oil cavity and put it in the dishwasher (one of mans BEST inventions). This is the type I have, and it makes cleaning the fryer A LOT easier!!

2. Gauge how much frying you are going to be doing, and what you are going to be frying the most. Like with everything in this day and age you can get fryers from about for about $40 or all the way up to several hundred!! In my case I got the heavy duty professional series, because well I am a foodie and I am constantly cooking!! I fry several times a month from chips to fish!!

3. I find it easier to have a fryer that has a basket that is like what you would find in your local restaurant, a nice big rectangular basket. It allows you to but a decent amount of food in it. So you can do larger batches instead of having to do a million little baskets!!

Alright well lets say a deep fryer is not in your budget, lets face it now people are having to tighten their belts!! You don't need a fancy dancy deep fryer to make your fave crispy chicken. All you need is a large heavy duty stock pot and a thermometer!!

There fryer in the photo is from the Food Network store, visit this link for their selection of fryers: http://www.foodnetworkstore.com/ProductList.aspx?Ntt=deep+friers&Ntx=mode%2Bmatchall&Nty=1&N=0&Ntk=All

Of course your local Target or Sears will also have them!!

Here is what you do to help reduce the splat er factor, i.e the fear of getting burned.

1. Just before you start to fry the food sprinkle about a quarter teaspoon of coarse kosher salt into the oil to help keep it from splattering.

2. Lower food gently into the hot oil, don't drop it from high up. Yes I know what you are thinking you want me to put my fingers close to the 300 plus degree oil?!?!?!? Are you friggin crazy?!??!?! No I am not, thank you very much, the bottom line is the closer you get your little piggies to the oil, the less it will splatter when you are puttin in your chicken leg, i.e. burning risk is reduced!!

3. If you are using tongs, keep them pointed downward to prevent hot oil from dripping down the handles. Yes I know this seems like its a no brainier, but just wait til you are multi tasking and you forget that you just had those tongs in the hot oil....yeah ouch.....been there done that......WHAT ARE U DOING MULTI TASKING??? What was the number one rule PAY ATTENTION!!

So now you got your beautiful crispy juicy chicken all fried up and you are thinkin to yourself well now what do I do with all this oil. Unless you have fried fish in the oil, strain chill, and reuse it for sauteing, NOT for deep frying. Particles that are left over in the oil lower the flash point, so it's potentially unsafe for frying.

The other option for the used oil is to cool the oil, strain into a big glass jar and store it at room temperature. When the jar is full, toss it. Or to be more green call a recycling center to see if it takes wasted vegetable oil.

Well I hope these tips help to make you feel safer in your frying adventures!! I know you can do it, and besides your kids will LOVE you even more if you are able to produce some tasty chicken fingers and fries for them at home!!

Keep safe, and spread the food love!!

**Hugs
Angelica

I have been TAGGED!!!

2008-12-03T20:38:00.003-07:00

One of my most favorite Estians tagged my blog today, Heather from Heathers Handmade Creations!! She is the bestest card maker on Etsy and she has been featured on my blog, to see the post click here!!

Tag Rules:

Being tagged is a game bloggers play where they have to write seven random things about their self, and tag seven other people.

Oh lord know you guys are going to know even MORE about me...ehehhehehe...beware...

My 7

1. I am a Scorpio and I have the personality to match, yes everything the say about Scorps is true in my case!! Hehhehe
2. I love to read, Nora Roberts, Dean Koontz, Stephen King are a couple of my fav authors.
3. I love dessert, and pastries are my krypto-nite!!!
4. I have a two kids, Justin and Tristen.....oh well 3 if you count my BF Jared
5. Jared and I have been together now, going on 14 years.......and NO we aren't married yet, we are doing the Goldie Hawn and the Kurt Russel thing....ehhehehe
6. I hate the cold, which is why I live in AZ, although I would LOVE to live by the ocean.
7. My fave color is purple!!

I have to tag 7 of you, gee I hope I have 7 lol!!

1. http://abbeylanebabyboutique.blogspot.com/
2. http://sudsnsuch.blogspot.com/
3. http://etsyedibleartsteam.blogspot.com/
4. http://steampunkrings.blogspot.com/
5. http://timothyadamdesigns.blogspot.com/
6. http://doubledippedsweets.blogspot.com/2008/12/amazing-etsy-christmas-contest-over.html
7. http://thestewartstuff.blogspot.com/2008/12/just-reminder.html

Hehheheh I had to dig deep for those!!!!

Wednesday's Tip: Clarified Butter

2008-12-03T13:33:00.002-07:00

Well it is Wednesday and time for another tip!! Today's tip is how to make clarified butter!! Yes you will see this in many recepies, and you think to yourself butter is butter isnt it!?!?!

What is clarified butter you ask, well it is also called drawn butter or ghee. Simply defined, clarified butter is unsalted butter that has the milk solids and water removed so all that remains is pure liquid golden-yellow butterfat. The advantages of this type of butter is its long keeping quality (several months refrigerated) and its high smoke point (can be used in frying without burning).

Well it is a 3 step processes to make, not really all that hard!! Once again the instructions for this process comes from one of my favorite magazines Bon Appetit! So here is the D/L on how to make your own clarified butter:

1. Melt two sticks of butter in a small sauce pan (un alted butter). Let it sit of the heat for a couple of minutes to allow the milk solids to fall to the bottom of the pan. Why unsalted butter you ask....well that is because you want to be able to control the salt content in your dishes. If you use butter that is salted, your dish may come out way to salty, and that is definitely not a tasty thing!!!!

2. Use a large slotted spoon or a fine-meshed skimmer to remove any remaining foam from the top of the melted butter. Discard the foam.

3. Slowly pour the clarified butter into a bowl leaving behind the milky solids. Discard solids. Keep the clarified butter covered and chilled.

So what are you going to use this butter for.....well you know those yummy lobsters and crab that you get at your fave restaurant, well the butter they give you to dip all of that delicate goodness in is clarified butter! What else can you do with it, well you can fry with it, and it is also used in different baking applications!

Rosti-Styled Latkes with Rosemary and Brown Butter Apple Sauce

Serves: 8-10

6 large russet potatoes (4lbs)

2 tbs (1/4 stick) unsalted butter

1 cup finely chopped shallots (about 6)

2 teaspoons coarse kosher salt

1/2 tsp fresh ground black pepper

12 tablespoons clarified butter, divided Rosemary and Brown Butter Applesauce (see recipe)

Cook potatoes in large pot of generously salted boiling water until partially cooked (tester will meet some resistance), about 15 minutes. Drain potatoes, rinse in cold water, and drain again. Peel, cover, and chill until very cold, at least 4 hours and up to 1 day.

Coarsely grate potatoes into large bowl. Melt butter in large ovenproof cast-iron skillet over medium-low heat. Add shallots; sute until soft, about 6 minutes. Add shallot mixture, 2 teaspoons coarse salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper to potatoes (reserve skillet). Toss to blend evenly (do not compact potato mixture). DO AHEAD can be made 3 hours ahead. Let stand at room temperature.

Preheat oven to 450 F. Melt 4 tbs of clarified butter in reserved skillet over medium heat. Add half of potato mixture (5.5 to 6 cups). Stir gently until clarified butter is absorbed, about 2 minutes. Spread potatoes to even layer, then press firmly with metal spatula to compact. Cook 5 minutes, pressing and flattening occasionally. Reduce heat to medium-low. Place slightly smaller skillet atop potato cake. Weigh down with heavy can (like a big can of tomatoes). Cook potato cake 15 minutes, pressing occasionally.

Remove can and small skillet. Press potato cake again to flatten. Spread with 2 tbs of clarified butter.

Place skillet in oven and bake potato cake uncovered 15 minutes. Run narrow spatula around potato cake. Turn out onto platter, bottom (crusty) side up. Immediately cut into wedges and serve with applesauce.

Rosemary & Brown Butter Applesauce

Makes about 3 cups and can be made 1 day ahead

3c unsweetened apple juice

3 4" fresh Rosemary springs

1.5 cinnamon sticks

3.5 lbs (7 to 8 medium) Braeburn apples or other tart-sweet apples, unpeeled, quartered, cored, cut into 1" chunks (about 12 cups)

3 tbs unsalted butter

Combine first three ingredients and large pinch of salt in a large pot. Boil until juice is reduced by half, about 8 minutes. Mix in apples. Cover; cook over medium heat until apples are very tender, stirring occasionally, about 35 minutes. Uncover and, if necessary, cook until liquid evaporates. Discard rosemary and cinnamon.

Transfer apples to food mill fitted with fine or medium plate and pass apples through mill (or press through coarse sieve) into medium bowl, discard skins. Melt butter int small skillet over medium-low heat. Cook until butter browns, stirring occasionally, about 4 minutes. Mix brown butter into apple sauce.

Well try this out, yes it sounds complicated but well worth it!! Hope this inspires you to delve into your kitchen and cook up some delisious treats for your family and friends!!!

Hugs

Angelica

Tips and Tricks Inaugural Post: Standing Rib Roast

2008-12-01T08:52:00.008-07:00

Good Morning to all of you Foodie's!!

It has been a long night for me, I was up til 3 am tossing and turning, trying to figure out what I should blog about. Well duh it came to me!! Tips and tricks that you all can use in your own homes!!!

Being a foodie I love all things food, so I am always doing research (actually it's me time) on different tips, gadgets etc to use in the kitchen. While I have a knack for throwing together some scrumptious dishes, somethings still allude me or I have the "Angelica" way of doing things, which is not necessarily the right way (wait did I say that, my way is always the right way......hehehe).

So we are going to find the right way to do things together!! If you have a dish that you just can't get right and can't figure out why or you are thinking to yourself there has to be some kind of gadget to make a process easier, email me!! I will do the research and then your question and of course the answer will be featured on the blog!! Until I start getting those questions I will delve into the culinary arts on my own!!

So this brings us to today's Tip, the all intimidating Standing Rib Roast!!! For those of you that do not know what a standing rib roast is, it's that sheek hunk of meat that you see on all those Holiday food commercials, you know the hunk of meet that looks like a crown!!! Yes your family will ooooooooooh and ahhhh if you prepare one of these!!! Well did you know that you can actually stuff one of these puppy's to really impress your family?? Yes I said stuff it, like a turkey!!!

This technique comes to us from one of my fav magazines, Bon Appetit!! Ok here are the steps to stuff your own standing rib roast!

1. Position roast on work surface with bones up right. With a long, sharp knife, start at the top and work down, cutting a five - to- six inch crevice between the bones and meat. Be sure to keep the bones attached. Basically what you are doing is cutting behind the bones to create a pocket for the stuffing, when you are creating the pocket make sure that you don't cut it all the way down, I would say leave a good 2 inches at the bottom!

2. Gently pry the bones away from the meat, creating a space. Fill the crevice with the stuffing, making sure to pack firmly. Basically you are going to take the side with the bones in one hand and with your other hand you are going to pull the meat away from the bones, be careful not to pull to hard, you don't want to have a rip in your pocket!! If you are having trouble pulling the meat away, take your free hand and make a fist and fit it into the pocket to help stretch the meat.

3. Once you have inserted all the stuffing press the bones in to compact the stuffing. Tie the bones back in place with three to four loops of kitchen string. Bring the string completely around the roast to secure it and to keep the stuffing in place. You can buy butchers twine at Fry's or any of your large grocery stores. Basically you are just trussing this puppy together, cut 3 to 4 strands of the butchers twine that are long enough to go around the roast (vertically) and long enough to let you give it a good tight knot. This also depends on how big the roast is, if your roast is larger you may need more twine!!

Well there you go, now you can stuff your own Standing Rib Roast!! Now I know what your thinking I don't have a recipe to make one of these, well Angelica is here to please!! You need to visit one of my favorite web sites, Food Network!! There is a video that Tyler Florence has and also the recipe for the roast! His version is not stuffed, but you can apply the technique above and stuff it!!

Video Link

Recipe

Well I hope this helps to inspire you to do something different on Christmas!! It will most definitely become a Christmas tradition if you prepare this for your family, give that tired old ham and turkey a rest already!!! Check back on Wednesday when we tackle how to make clarified butter, yes something that a TON of recipes call for!!! See you then, be safe and kind!!

**Hugs,

Angelica

Christmas Give Away!!

2008-11-30T10:00:00.009-07:00

So the meal for one give away was totally fun!!! Ok well I had fun at least!! So I am going to be doing one for December!!! Decembers give away will be a $25.oo gift certificate to use in my Jewelry and Home Decor shop, A Time 2B Unique!!

The Rules:

1. You must be at least 18 years or older to participate

2. You must visit my Etsy shop, http://www.atime2beeunique.etsy.com/ and tell me what item you like best and why by posting a comment to this post and find the 3 candy canes hidden in my listings. Once you find the candy canes, email me at: athyme2beecomforted@yahoo.com and tell me where the candy candy canes are hidden and then you are entered to win!!

Remember the more post you have, the more likely you are to win......our last winner knows all about it!!! ;)

3. The contest will run from December 1st until December 2oth at midnight!!

4. The prize will be sent out via email and announced on December 21!! Well if I don't the the stomach flu again, heheheh!!

Well I hope that you guys have a great time participating in this!! I also hope that you and your families have a safe and HAPPY Christmas and New Year!! Remember to be good and kind Santa is watching and checking his list!!

**Hugs!!

Angelica

And the winner is............

2008-11-24T14:04:00.005-07:00

Congratulations to Karen, from Bridgeport, NY!! She has won A Thyme To Bee Comforted's meal for one! Karen has chosen the Enchilada meal, which will be sent out to her after the holiday!!

Sorry for the late post in regards to the winner, our house was hit by the hideious stomach flu, and today is the first day I feel good enough to be on the net! Darn school, don't you love how kids just bring home EVERYTHING!?!?! I vote for them going to school in bubbles!!!

Anyway, I did a short interview with Karen since she is Novembers BIG winner!

What comforts you in hard times?

Family and Friends - just as in the good times !!

What is your favorite internet site to shop on?

I like Kohls.com.

What's your favorite meal?

Pasta Alfredo

If you could learn to cook one thing, what would it be?

Pasta Alfredo, I've always had trouble with white sauce - it comes out either too thick or too thin... I could use some helpful hints.

Well my suggestion for the white sauce it to slowly add more parmesan cheese in small batches to make the sauce thicker or you can mix butter and flour together in another dish, then slowly add it in to also make it thicker! Becareful with the butter flour mixture, it can thicken it pretty quick. If it is to thick you can always thin it out with some milk or cream.

Well this brings us to the end of Novembers give away! I hope that you all had fun in participating, and I also hope that you have a fantastic Thanksgiving!! Can you belive it is this week!!?!? Check back in December, I will be having a December giveaway from my other store, A Time 2b Unique!!

**Hugs!
Angelica

A Time 2 Bee Unique

2008-11-17T11:43:00.013-07:00

Well today's blog is going to be a little self indulgent!! For those of you that subscribe to this blog, you know about my Etsy store A Thyme To Bee Comforted, but did you know that I have another Etsy store? I do, I do it is called

A Time 2 Bee Unique!!

A Time 2 Bee Unique is a jewelry and home decor store. Yes it has NOTHING to do with food!! I love all kinds of different crafts, jewelry making, wood burning, painting.....the list goes on an on! Hehheehe so do the withdrawals from my checking account!! At A Time 2 Bee Unique you will find mostly jewelry right now, I do have some home decor and holiday stuff. I will be adding more home decor items as time passes!

I started making jewelry when I was little around 8 I would say, with fishing wire and seed beads, my sister and I would make little flower rings and bracelets. I love to make jewelry because I know I won't be running into any of my friends and end up having the same earrings or necklace as them!! It is one of my pet peeves (hhehehe I have LOTS of pet peeves), I hate going out and finding out that I have the same shirt, shoes or accessories as my friends. Unfortunately this use to happen A LOT because in my group of friends we all had similar taste in clothes and jewelry!!

When designing my jewelry I love to use sterling silver and semi precious stones, and also lamp work beads. A couple of my necklaces have lamp work beads from Etsy lamp work artist! I love the Etsy lamp work artist, there beads are extraordinary and unique from other beads that you will find at your typical bead store! I also love vibrant colors, those that will make you smile when you wear them!

A Rainbow in a Heart

Well if you find yourself on Etsy (which you should be for the Holiday's) come and stop by A Time 2 Bee Unique, I would love to have you!! So pull up a chair and come browse for awhile! If you see something you like but you want it bigger or smaller just email me and I can adjust! I also have Holiday gift wrapping available, which is sooooooooo cute!! I had Shopbub design the packaging for me!!

Happy Shopping!!!

Angelica =o)

Up Coming Holiday Events!!

2008-11-13T14:36:00.002-07:00

There are going to be some exciting events occurring this month that you need to check out!!! Team Eeat is hosting two delish events for the Holiday Season!! I mentioned them in the news letter that I sent out this week, but I am soooooooo excited in being a part of them that I thought they deserved a blog post!!

The first event is the Holiday blog give away which is a scavenger hunt!!! It is being held on the Team Eeat Blog. We are giving away two $10 gift certificates that can be used in any participating shop!! For detailed rules of the give away and to see the participating shops visit the blog!!

The next Holiday event is taking the place of our next FFF, it is our Black Friday Sale!! There are going to great sales in participating Team Eeat shops!!!

Yes I know that you are in denial, but it is that time of the year already!! There will be a Turkey on the table before you know it, and a house full of family and friends!! For many Black Friday is D Day, it signals the official start of the Holiday Season and prime time shopping for loved ones!! So in honor of the Black Friday tradition Team Eeat will be having a Black Friday Sale! It will be in the Etsy Forums, members will be having significant discounts, games, prizes etc! Do yourself a favor and buy handmade this season!! Pull up your favorite chair and cup of hot coco and take a trip to Etsy Lane for unique Holiday gifts!! Best of all let Team Eeat help you with your Holiday cooking!! There is enough stress during the Holidays, why worry about making food!?!??! So give the gift of time this Holiday Season with some delicious desserts or side dishes!!!

Heathers Handmade Creations

2008-11-11T03:37:00.009-07:00

For those of you who have been following the blog you know that I love to comfort other people with my food! Over there years it has become a passion of mine, a way to express myself and my feelings to my friends and family. The best part about joining Etsy is coming in contact with other people that are passionate at what they do. I have made a couple of friends on Etsy and we are all connected by the passion that we share for the love of our craft.

One of my favorite Estians is Heather who is the owner of Heathers Handmade Creations. Now Heather has nothing to do with food!! Yes I know you are surprised because everything on this blog is typically related to food, but this blog is also about what comforts me!!

Heather is a person that is passionate, creative and very gifted when it comes to designing her cards! Yes there are many card shops on Etsy, but I have yet to find one that has her unique flair for design or for the quality that she provides!

I know about her quality first hand as I have ordered cards from her several times! Each time I have been pleasantly surprised with my orders!! Not only is it the quality of her cards, but Heather is very nice and easy person to get along with. She cares about her customers and wants to be sure that they are happy with their purchases. All of these reasons are why I have chosen to feature her on my blog this week. So lets sit back, relax and get to know a little about Heather!!

Q: Tell us a little bit about yourself:

Heather: I'm 36 years old,married, no kids. I started cross stitching at a early age, took up beading, then crocheting, but not till 2.5 years ago when i took up scrap booking did i really get hooked on a craft. I started out with 12x12 layouts, then took up card making 2 years ago when i ran out of pics to scrapbook. I love hockey, the Leafs and Oilers :) and i love my dog and two cats. I work full time as an embroidery machine operator, and have been doing so for 11 years now. (god!) lol~ Heather also resides in lovely Canada...brrrrrr..........

Q: What inspires you when you are creating designs for your cards?

Heather: I get a lot of inspiration just from my stamps, I can look at a stamp and then in my head know what papers, colors and embellishments to use. I am also able to picture the layouts of my ideas in my head. I'm addicted to ribbon and embossing.

Q: What is your favorite card that you have made so far and why?

Heather: My favorite card I have made so far is the Love Bird card. I had the stamp set for a while and when I finally got around to using it, it just came out way better then I expected. I love the heart with the flourishes the best, I plan to do some nice valentines cards with that stamp.

Q: Any tips for Etsy newbies or those who are starting their online business?

Heather: The tips I would give to anyone starting out, is to just have fun! Don't' expect too much to quickly, I think most expect to sell a lot and sell right away, it doesn't always happen, and disappointment can come quickly. I joined not expecting anything but to list my cards. If someone likes and buys them that is great!!

Q: What are a couple of your favorite Etsy shops and why??

Some of my favorite shops are http://www.lucatedde.etsy.com/ he made me the best dog portrait ever and was my first big purchase on Etsy. I was his first sale and it was just a nice experience.

I also love http://www.bluesaphire.etsy.com/; I have never bought from her but I think she has the best sock monkeys around! I just love looking at them to cheer me up, she was my first international sale and even with high shipping she has come back again and again, that makes me feel good :)

I also love http://www.buttfreckle.com/ if I ever have a bad day i just go to her shop and I'm instantly cheered up lol !!

Oh yeah and http://www.txbutterfly74.etsy.com/ as well she has been my best Etsy friends almost since joining and i talk to her nightly she is a paper crafter as well, and we have lots in common!!

So you can see that Heather is an easy going and fun person which is really reflected in her work! What she is to modest to tell you, when you look at the pictures of her cards you would assume that she printed off the images that she uses, which is what I thought when I first saw her cards. In actuality she hands stamps each card and then the color that you see is hand painted with water color pencils!! She does custom orders for any occasion, and not just limited to cards. She also has these adorable gift card holders that would be PERFECT for the Holidays that are just around the corner!! So do yourself a favor and send the ones that you love a card from Heathers Handmade Creations to bright up their day!!

How is it possible to ship food??

2008-11-10T11:01:00.005-07:00

"How can you ship food like this"? This is the most popular question that I get!! If I had a dollar for every time I have been asked, I would be on my way to being a rich girl!!! The question after this is always," Why is your shipping so high"?

Well I have decided to answer these questions in detail as they pertain to my Etsy shop A Thyme To Bee Comforted. Please keep in mind, this is how I ship and does not reflect the shipping policies of any of the edible shops that you will find on Etsy.

So to answer the first question: "How can you ship food like this"?

Well to begin with it is all in the packaging and delivery time. I ship priority mail as my standard shipping method which means that your package will arrive on your door step with in 2-3 days. I can also ship overnight, at an additional cost. Priority mail is the most cost effective method for both of us as I use a flat rate box. The benefit of using flat rate boxes is that the shipping cost is based on what you can fit into the box up to 70lbs and does not go off of weight. That is where overnight or express mail get you!! They go by weight and by box size!!

I typically use the Large Flat Rate priority box (measures 12” x 12” x 5-1/2” ), as this gives me the most space to pack your product in. You need to keep in mind that I am not only shipping your product in your box, but also ice packs and dry ice. All of which take up a good amount of space!!

Since I am using a flat rate box, I am limited on space. I do combine orders if you order multiple items. Typically 4 items will fit into one Large box, this is an estimate of course as it is all dependant on what you are ordering. Some products are larger than others and will take up more space. I would only charging shipping on one box, if all the items fit into one box, once they do not fit into one box you of course would incur another shipping charge. Unfortunately Etsy does not let me structure my shipping profile this way. So if you end up buying multiple items don't panic when you see the shipping amount!! Once your order has been packed and shipped out to you, I will refund you the overage in shipping!

Well now you know how the box gets to your door but I know that doesn't explain how the food gets there fresh!! Well it is a combination of things that helps the food get to your door fresh and delish!! For the most part everything that you purchase from me is completely cooked, when it arrives at your door all you will be doing is reheating (reheating instructions are provided). Once I have cooked everything in your order it goes into the freezer to help insure that it arrives at your door cold. The only thing that is not frozen prior to shipping are the fresh salsas , as they only need to be kept cool to keep them fresh. I only offer items that will not lose their taste or texture when frozen.

Next is the packaging, while I use the priority boxes to ship in I alter the interior of them to help keep the food insulated. I use Cool Shield Bubble to insulate the boxes. It provide short term thermal shipping protection for food, plants and pharmaceuticals and is safe to use with food per the FDA. Your order is completely surrounded by the cool shield, from top to bottom!!

The next step is ice packs and dry ice. I put about 3 ice packs at the bottom of your box and on top of them I put about 5lbs of dry ice. This will extend the life of the ice packs by keeping them frozen. You can find out all about shipping with dry ice at ://www.dryiceinfo.com/shipping.htm . In addition to food, pharmaceuticals are also shipped with dry ice! Basically I have made my own cooler to ship your food in!!

This brings us to the final question of "Why is your shipping cost so high"? As you can see I take great care in packaging your orders. My shipping cost is high because not just as simple as put the product in the box and sending it out! Dry ice and the packaging that I use is not inexpensive. Here in AZ dry ice is $1.20 or so a pound. As I mentioned I typically ship with 5lbs so if you do the math on that it is $6 just in dry ice!! Not to mention the ice packs and the lining of the boxes! I want your food to get to you as cold and as quick as possible! Also my food products are more delicate than those of the Bakery shops you will find on Etsy. I ship this way because I want the food to be completely safe when it arrives on your door step!

Keeping this in mind if you know that your mail is slower than most places, shoot me an email and let me know before you order that way I can put in some extra ice packs! Typically with priority mail the packages arrive in 2 days and do not go into the 3rd day.

Well I hope that this little post helps you feel better about ordering for over the net!! If you ever have any questions about the products in either of my stores feel free to convo or email me!!

Hugs!

Angelica

My Birthday!!

2008-11-08T12:13:00.009-07:00

Well I am another year older, I celebrated my birthday last Saturday, Nov 1st! No I will not tell you how old I am!! Gee don't you know it's rude to ask a lady her age!! It was another great B day filled with family, friends and of course FOOD!!! It seems no matter what event it is I am the one always cooking (hmmm my B Day and I ended up cooking...waz up with that)! I made some Bruschetta, oh my it was YUMMMY!!! You can't go wrong with bread, mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil!!! I have now added it to my shop!!

The bruschetta was the appetizer, I also made two deep dish lasagnas and a Panzenella salad!! Everyone was out back hovered around the food, waiting for me to give the ok to chow down!! Finally Amy came in and asked me if they could eat (as usual I was still in the kitchen finishing the last minute details). I said "of course that is why all the food is out on the table silly!!"

That is my kitchen and family room!! I am the one in the shorts and the stripes!! Heheheh wouldn't Scotty and Kathy be mad if they new their pics were on line.........hehehhehehe.

The night was finished out back with some Nutella Wantons!! Ohhhh my those were goood!! I also made a raspberry reduction to go with them!! A couple of the party goers gave me the look when they first saw them, but as soon as they took a bite "The Look" went from one of doubt to pure joy!! Hehehhe then they were following me around because I had the tray!!! Since they were such a big hit I have also added them to my Etsy shop!!

Well here is hoping for another great year of fun, laughs, family and friends!!!

The FFF, what is it? Where is it? Why?

2008-11-03T08:24:00.004-07:00

There is a new buzz going through my favorite website, Etsy where I am sure a lot of you are sellers or even buyers. Not everyone knows about it yet, but there is a wave being started that you will definitely want to ride.

What is Etsy for those of you that may have never heard of it? Well it is only the most unique place to purchase quality handmade items. What's unique about it you may ask? Well there is such a large diversity of products on this site that you will be amazed. For those of you that think handmade items are questionable, well you are sadly mistaken!! I have never seen such an array of talented individuals all located on one site that produce such high quality items. Some even will rival your typical name brands. I have seen jewelry that could be featured at Tiffanie's, purses that could be in Coach, and food that could be on the Food Network.

All this being said brings me to the focus of this blog, The FFF. The FFF is the Friday Food Fest that is hosted by Team Eeat. It occurs twice a month on the First and Third Friday of the month in a chat room on Etsy that has been started by Team Eeat. What is the FFF, well it is a chat room where you can come and chat with the members of Team Eeat and those that are in love with food.

In addition to the great chat, Team Eeat members typically run sales in their shops to honor the FFF. So if you have not yet had a chance to partake in any of the delectable desserts or delish dishes on Etsy the FFF is defiantly the time to take the plunge. In addition to Team Eeat giving great sales, other Sellers have started participating in the idea of the FFF. They also may offer discounts on items in their shops and sponsor their own giveaways!!

At the FFF there are several games sponsored by the members of Team Eat where you have the chance to win various prizes, from gift certs to actual food!! It is a great place to be if you are going to be online on a Friday night! Make sure that you do your calistenics with your fingers before you log on and get your speed readers shined, because the chat moves like lightning with a lot of laughs and fun!!!

I suggest you peruse the sales at the Team Eeat blog before you enter chat, you can do this by visiting the Team Eeat blog at: http://etsyedibleartsteam.blogspot.com/. That way you have an idea of who is having what sale and from whom you may want to win a prize from!! There are sooo many different members on the Team that I really do suggest doing this, otherwise you may feel overwhelmed in chat by each tasty treat that is presented.......or tempted...heheeh....

I really suggest visiting the FFF in the next couple of months as the holidays draw near, you may find yourself not having enough time for making that dish that you need to take to the holiday party, or to the pot luck. Or surprise!!! The family has decided to come down for the holidays and now you need to cook a meal for 12 hungry and judgemental family members (yes we all have one of those in our families). Give yourself the gift of time and sanity let the VERY talented members of Team Eeat grace your tables with inventive, creative and scrumptious food! Heheheh you can even take the credit for it, no one will no that you didn't make it!!

So lets break it down, the next FFF is this Friday, November 7th 8pm est time in the Etsy Chat rooms! Don't forget to visit the blog before coming or peruse this blog for the members that I have featured, http://etsyedibleartsteam.blogspot.com/!! I hope to see you there!!

With Love!

Angelica

JustBakin another Delish Member of Team Eeat

2008-10-30T10:10:00.008-07:00

I like to introduce you all to JustBakin, and man can the girl bake!!! She is another one of my team mates on Team Eeat!! Besides having a great personality this girl can throw down when it comes to baked goodies!! I ordered the Cherry Bombers...hehehhehe...as I call them, they are actually called Sweet Cherry Bomb Bliss Bites.

Bliss does not even begin to describes these little square jewels. When they arrive at your door they are in the regular old post office box, but once you crack the seal on the outer box you are surprised with some really beautiful packaging! It was like opening a Christmas present from the lovely white bakers box to the color coordinated ribbon!!

Lets get to the good stuff..... each little Bliss bar was wrapped in its own cellophane bag and tied with a coordinating bow and they were nestled in cute little fluted paper cups! I will be honest I didn't think of the wonderful packaging until later.........hehhehe I was just trying to rip through the cellophane to get to the goods.........and damn it my teeth don't work as good as they use too....I had to bust out the scissors as I had no patience to untie the cute ribbon!

My mouth was watering in anticipation.........let me just tell you it was NOT disappointed. When you bite into one of these little Bomber Blisses you immediately taste the buttery and flaky crust. Then you mouth is assaulted with the sweet juiciness from the maraschino cherries. The combination of the flaky crust and cherries are an explosion of a happy marriage in your mouth. My mouth is watering as I am typing this...........gee I wish I still had some...........hmmm the FFF is coming up again!!

Now being the sweet girl that Justbakin is she through in some extra goodies for me to taste (hmmmm I actually think it is an evil plan of hers). They were also as delectable as the Cherry Bliss Bombers (hehehe). She sent me:

Pecan Pie Bars

If you love Pecan Pie and chocolate, ummm I suggest you go to her shop immediately and buy these..........I am IN LOVE with them. I love pecan pie, but these bars were even better than the old fashion pie! Once again the girl has a knack for crust, flaky buttery and light! They are like having a whole pie in a little bar! The combination of nuts and chocolate make it a divine treat!! Angelica did NOT share any of these with her family!!! Shhhhh don't tell them, they will be mad at me!!

The dear also sent me some of her Cherry Undercover Darkness

If you like chocolate covered cherries well these are about a million times better!! So once again go straight to her shop and order them!!!! The cookie is so moist, the chocolate is deep and rich and then you get a little explosion in your mouth as you bite into the cherry and the sweet juices roll onto your tongue..........mmmmmmmmmmm my mouth is drooling again......damn I am out of these too!

Don't let me fool you, the box of goodies didn't even last a full 2 day at the house. It was worse than having your favorite ice cream in the freezer! I found myself thinking about the box constantly.....in fact we went to a friends BBQ and I found myself wishing that I had brought the box with me......hehehehe....but that would of meant I had to share...hmmmm glad I didn't bring it with me!

Do yourself a favor this holiday season, give the gift of Time!! Give the girls at Team Eeat the chance to fill your house with some yummy treats and give you the time to spend with your family instead of being a slave to the oven!!

Check out the blog on Monday, as it will be about the FFF............. do you know what the FFF is?? Come find out on Monday!!!

Just incase you want to order from Justbakin !!!

With Love!

Angelica

Vanilla Bean Bake Shop, another Yummy Member of Team Eat!!

2008-10-27T09:45:00.008-07:00

Well for those of you that are following the blog, I have been featuring members of my team on Etsy! For those of you that are new to my blog I have a shop on Etsy called A Thyme to Bee Comforted ( http://www.athyme2bcomforted.etsy.com/ ). When I opened this shop I became a member of a great team, Team Eeat. Team Eeat features very talented edible artist everything from wedding cakes to Carmel apples!!

Well I have had the pleasure of ordering the treats from these yummy artist's, and my Featured artist today is Vanilla Bean Bake shop (http://www.vanillabeanbakeshop.etsy.com/)!!! From this lovely lady I ordered her Organic Double Chocolate Pecan Brownies. They are organic but best off all they are TASTY!! They were moist, the perfect brownie consistency. They were not too sweet, and they had a little crunch from the pecans. They made your mouth sing!!!! Let me tell you, you need to order some...10 seconds in the microwave and you will think that you have arrived in heaven!!!

VB has some other GREAT things in her shop that I am dying to order (however, my booty is not to happy with all the treats I have been getting......it's mad cuz it's been growing!!). You need to do yourself a favor and check out the following..............shhhh I won't tell............the holidays are almost here anyway......just make it your New Years resolution to go on a diet.......hehehehe...

Organic Pumpkin Bars with Dark Chocolate Chips:

Organic Lemon Pound Cake with Citrus Lemon Glaze:

If you haven't become of buyer on Etsy yet, you need to go to your browser now and go to http://www.etsy.com/index.php and sign up! It's free to join and you will have access to the most unique Christmas presents, wow and amaze your family with some Tasty treats or a handmade creation!!

Come back and check out the Blog, later in the week I will be featuring Justbakin........u need to find out about the Cherry Bombers, as I call them that I ordered!!!!

DelectableDelights : Yummmy Member of Team Eeat

2008-10-22T21:19:00.007-07:00

Good Morning all!!!I have started to partake in all of the yummy treats from my team members in Team Eeat!! My first order was with Delectable Delights or DD as I like to call her in chat!! I ordered the:Chocolate Covered Cherry Sundae Cupcake (TM)Boston Cream Sundae Cupcake (TM)

Let me say, if you have not ordered from DD, you are missing out on the moistest cup cakes you have ever had!!! They were more than yummy!! When they arrived, I had to fight my son off as he was hovering, waiting for me to open the package. Once he found out that they were cup cakes and that they had chocolate on them..............well I couldn't get rid of him!!! I was forced to share........which I was not happy about.......I knew I should of locked myself in the bathroom!!!

My favorite was the Cherry one, it had big chunks of maraschino cherries in it, and the rich chocolate topping was to die for!! So I say to you all ORDER FROM DD, she has some GREAT stuff.....I know I will be getting more..........hmmmm now I just have to figure out how to hide them.........

Novembers Give Away!! FREE FOOD!!

2008-10-21T07:54:00.008-07:00

To kick off my new blog I am going to be giving away a Free Meal for one!!! You can choose between my Carne De Puerco or my Enchilada's!!! They will come with the main dish and a side of my YUMMMY rice!!! They are all packaged up and delivered to your door!! To view a full description of each visit my Etsy store at http://www.athyme2bcomforted.etsy.com/.

What do you have to do? Just join my mailing list and post a comment about what comforts you most in my shop!!! The more comments I see from you, the better chances of winning you have!!! Contest will run from October 21 until Midnight Friday, November 21st . Winner will be chosen on Saturday, November 22!!!

**** Participants must be in the US due to type of prize*************

Also Proud Participante of the Bloggy GiveAways Carnival!!!

Double Dipped Sweets

2008-10-20T13:38:00.001-07:00

Well I have be partaking in my teams delicious items again.....hmmm I wonder if they are going to chip in for the weight loss plan I am going to have to get on...or maybe for my gym membership......

Well it has been a BUSY month for "partaking"..... my first indulgence was Double Dipped Sweets Sea Salted Caramel Apple.

This apple was delicious, it was the perfect balance of sweet, salty and tart. Her apples are HUGE...I think she may have some magic dust that she sprinkles on them to enlarge them...I know I have not seen apples that big here in AZ!! The apple was big enough for me to share (not willingly) with both of my kids. When you bite into the slice of apple you get the immediate crunch from the fresh crisp apple, then you taste the sweet Carmel and then your taste buds are assaulted by the salty goodness of the sea salt. The Carmel is also a perfect consistency, not to sticky....it won't glue your teeth together like some other apples!!

Well I also got some little presents in that package from DDS (as I call her in chat) she sent me a sample of her Ginger bread popcorn.

All I can say is that popcorn puts the kettle corn that you get at the fair to shame!! It was scrumptious!!! Crunchy and sweet and like taking a big bite of a gingerbread man!!

The other little gift I got was her Coconut Haystack Bark, omg it was soooooooooooooo good!! Just the right balance between chocolaty goodness and coconut. Your tongue is coated by the delicious chocolate and then there is a slight chewy crunch from the coconut.

Let's just say I had to fight off the kids from each one of my "gifts". Hmmm I think I should of locked myself in the bedroom, I will have to do that next time I buy from DDS!!

Give your family a treat from DDS you won't be disappointed!! I also suggest the following apples also......heheheh I told you it was a busy month of "partaking"!!!

Apple Pie Caramel Apple and Fall Delight Caramel Apple

timothy adam designs: Some metal for the ladies

2008-10-20T13:32:00.000-07:00

timothy adam designs: Some metal for the ladies

What comforts me today? Team Eeat!!!

2008-10-19T10:22:00.000-07:00

Today I am grateful for my Etsy Team!!! I am a proud member of Team Eeat on Etsy.com. They are a great group of peeps with a creative flair that leans towards satisfying every craving that your tummy and taste buds could possibly imagine. You can find wedding cakes to carmels, cup cakes to carmel apples. Not only are their products great, but they are truly great friends to have!! They have been a very important part of my sucess with A Thyme To Bee Comforted!! They are supportive and are constantly offering suggestons, ideas etc.

More importanly we have fun together in all of our team events, from our Virtual Bake Sale to the FFF (Friday Food Fest); these events are hosted in either the Etsy Labs or the Etsy Chat rooms. It has been a great way to promote all of our shops and to have a really great time!!!!

So here is a BIG THANKS to Team Eeat and their ability to offer me comfort in all of my new ventures and ideas!!!

2008-10-15T16:55:00.001-07:00

What Comforts you???

2008-10-15T16:42:00.000-07:00

I finally decided to start a blog, hehehe know you all have to suffer with my UN-edited thoughts. So the point of this blog site....well one to promote my businesses, but the other is to find out what comforts you??Financially, politically, socially, religiously, times are ruff right now. There is nothing but doom and gloom through out the net, on the news, in chat rooms, in blogs......what do you do in your own world to keep the bad out??? What makes you feel safe, happy, comforted?? Is it your family and friends or a favorite pair of shoes? A warm bowl of soup eatin in bed while the rain pours down and your favorite book??

For me well its my children....my family....my friends...the talents that the big guy decided to give me. I find peace and comfort when I am cooking for my family and friends. It brings a smile to my face when I see everyone enjoying themselves and knowing that I had a part in creating that smile.I am a creative person buy nature, I have always been drawn to arts and crafts. I love to be able to express myself through my art...be it writing, painting, cooking, or jewelry making it is a way to express my moods, my feelings and my passions. I remember writing a book when I was maybe in elementary school, it was about a wolf.......I think I have it around here some where still.

When I was young I wanted to be a writer, hence the book......well Angelica has learned that her grammer and her spelling SUCK!! Thank the big guy for spell check!! While that dream may have faded into the background as those of childhood tend to, I have a new dream. That dream is to open a little cafe that is owned and operated by little ole me!I am on my way now to try and accomplish my dream, it has been hard so far, but stubborn is what I am buy nature and I firmly believe that hard work and perseverance will pay off. So this blog, well its also to help me on my way to my dream, in this fast paced world you need every bit of exposure that you can get to compete with those around you.......so join me on my journey and let us learn something about one another and what in life offers us security comforted and all around happiness!!

A Thyme To Bee

A Friend

My Christmas Cards

Love is in the air!

My Paper is in!

A Little Chistmas via paper!

Team Eeat has changed!! Come check us out!

Saturday Snack Attacks hosted by Team Eeat ***UPDATED!! ***

Give away!!!

Oh where oh where has Angelica been?!?!?

Finshed my Album!

It's time for another VIRTUAL BAKE SALE with Team Eeat!

It's A Girl, paper bag Album

Painting...I still got the knack

FFF is Next Friday!!

Packaging for a Great idea!

Getting Ready for a Show!!

Yesterdays Cards

It's begining to look a lot like....

Artful Entertaining Gift Guide

The creepy and the kooky......

Chromasmear

Food Genes

This and That

A Team Eeat Christmas N July

Chromasmear Your One Stop Shop for Promotional items!!

My new Hooters

New Team Member Spotlight: mysweetserendipity

New Additions

New Album Pages for Tristens Zoo Album

Emily Wiser Jewelry

Zoo Paper Bag Album Adventure

Lions.....Tigers.........and Bears......Oh My!!

Spring is in the air....pass me a Rita

A new Hobby....another...can u belive it?

And the winner is............

A Handmade Valentine's Day

Blog Contest Rule Change

Another GREAT Etsy shop, txbutterfly74!!

Al Dente..huh???

And the Contest Begins.......

Are you in the KNOW for January?

Most important kitchen gadget??

OFFICAL BLOG POST FOR: Heathers Handmade Creations Blog Give Away

BAKE SALE!!!!!!!!!!!!! Did u hear a BAKE SALE!?!??!!?

The Chicken...Organic, Natural....Free Range...huh.....??

You Can DOoo It.....Ricotta that is!!

Man's Best Friends also should enjoy Divine Treats!!

Rice a different face

Love, Love and more LOVE!!!

The DL on Art Fire

Decembers Contest Winner: Suanne Giddings

The Incredible Edible Leek

Scared to Fry??? Don't Be!!

I have been TAGGED!!!

Wednesday's Tip: Clarified Butter

Tips and Tricks Inaugural Post: Standing Rib Roast

Christmas Give Away!!

And the winner is............

A Time 2 Bee Unique

Up Coming Holiday Events!!

Heathers Handmade Creations

How is it possible to ship food??

My Birthday!!

The FFF, what is it? Where is it? Why?

JustBakin another Delish Member of Team Eeat

Vanilla Bean Bake Shop, another Yummy Member of Team Eat!!

DelectableDelights : Yummmy Member of Team Eeat

Novembers Give Away!! FREE FOOD!!

Double Dipped Sweets

timothy adam designs: Some metal for the ladies

What comforts me today? Team Eeat!!!

What Comforts you???

Saturday Snack Attacks hosted by Team Eeat UPDATED!!