Day 15: Ideas

Today will be a combination of 31 Days and Saturday Stumbles...so welcome!

If I have to make a cake or cupcakes, one of the first things I do is scour the internet for images and ideas.  Here are some of my favorites:

i am baker

My Cake School

And Everything Sweet

Bakerella

Cupcakes Take the Cake

Wilton

If you clicked through any of those you might be intimidated, but here's how you have to think about it:  ya know how when you see a fashion runway show and the models come out wearing crazy stuff?

Well, cake and cupcake designs are the same way.  For example, when I look at the model above I like the color combination of the green and red.  I also like the ruffle texture...not necessarily on the whole entire outfit, but maybe as an accent.  So when you look through these blogs, look for parts or colors that you could incorporate into your cake.

...and just for kicks, if you've not see Cake Wrecks, you're in for a real laugh!  And you can read about how I met Jen, the author of the blog.

Read up on the guidelines and link up below!

Saturday Stumbles

This week flew by!  I just hope the weekend doesn't go by that fast.  Here are a few things you need to check out:

Marshmallow Gun
Yep, you read that right.  If you've got some PVC scraps and a bag of marshmallows, then this will keep any kid (or even adults) busy for hours!

Teacher & Homeschool Discounts
Who knew The Limited gives teacher discounts??  This site shares lots of places you can get teacher discounts.

Being Busy is not a Badge of Honor
The title says it all.  What a great reminder for all of us.

Double Chocolate Pumpkin Cake with Pumpkin Spice Buttercream
I just gained 5 pounds reading this recipe!

Now let's hear from you!  Check out the guidelines then link up below with what you think we just have to read. 


Check out the current series I'm writing 31 Days to Being a Better Baker!

Saturday Stumbles

It's October 1!!  How did we get here?  I love October because of the promise of cool weather, pumpkins, fall colors, sweaters and boots.

Twelve days of Christmas
Oh I love this!  Such a fun way to let someone know you're thinking about them.

Pumpkin Pie and Spiced & Sugared Nuts
These would make a great neighbor gift or a little something for the co-workers because you could make a lot of them.

It Is Real
Lauren took the words right out of my mouth!  I know I get strange looks from people when I tell them I have "bloggy" friends that I've never met...but It.Is.Real.

On Friends
Do you have friends like this?  I literally feel spoiled sometimes because of the great friends I have.  They are the gems in my life.

So what did you find this week?  Check out the guidelines then link up below.

Saturday Stumbles

Welcome to the weekend!  Hope you have something fun planned.  I've got plans to see a very exciting soccer game on Saturday...my nephew!  That's about the highlight of my weekend!

Are you ready for some stumbles?

Crockpot Potato Chowder
Fall weather brings about all sorts of good food and this is one I'm dying to try!

Color Scavenger Hunt and Nature Bracelet
I'm always looking for fun stuff to do with the kiddos and this is fun and educational.

10 Ways to Celebrate Worldwide Day of Play
Kids don't get outside and play enough.  I think we can all agree on that.  I love this list to help kids get outside and play!

Chicken Parmesan Skillet Pot Pie
Deliciousness in a skillet!

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So what did you find this week?  Link up below so we can all enjoy!

Saturday Stumbles

Whew...I've been busy making cupcakes for a Toy Story birthday party. I'll have to get some pictures posted once they're set up at the party. They're pretty cute...if I do say so myself!

Moving on to the stumbles!

Witness to Apocalypse
Granted this is about a week late and I had every intention of posting it last week, but somehow it got by me. This is a collection of eyewitness accounts of the events of September 11. From people who were in the towers and got out in time to people who made one small decision that day out of their ordinary routine that altered their life forever. A very sobering read.

On a lighter note...
Cheese Stuffed Zucchini rolls

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Window Ornament Holder

 

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My parents moved out of our childhood home about 3 years now.  Someone purchased the home and was going to move it off the lot. (Why anyone would want to buy a 31 year old house and transport it is beyond me)  Before they did that, they let us see it and take some memorabilia.  I got a couple of bricks, found some old birthday cards (from when I was TWO!) and a window.  I have no idea what to really do with any of it but I know I like having a piece of the only home I've known.  This, however, is something I'm thinking about doing with the window.

And one last recipe from my friend Jessie!

Parmesan and Herb Chicken Fingers

I've got chicken tenders I've been dying to do something with and this is the perfect dish!

I can't wait to see what you've stumbled!  Read the guidelines and link away!

Saturday Stumbles

Well, here we are! Another weekend! Time to share what you found stumble worthy this week.

Homemade ranch dressing
I just don't comprehend people who don't like ranch dressing. What's NOT to like? It's the sole reason I can down celery...well, IT and peanut butter!

Disney Bound
This is the coolest site that my friend Amanda showed me. This lady creates outfits based on Disney characters or movies. So cute!! Here are some of my favorites she created from one of my favorite Disney movies, The Little Mermaid:

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Freezable Foods

Who knew you could freeze cream cheese?  Check out this list to find out what else you can freeze.

My stumbles were all over the place today.  Just wanted to keep you on your toes!  So check out the guidelines and link up below!

Saturday Stumbles

Happy Labor Day weekend! I hope you get to enjoy a little time off and relax with friends and family. I'm celebrating my dad's birthday with the fam at the pool.

Pop-Tart Pops
Mini pop-tarts on a stick...doesn't get any better (or cuter) than this!

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Tin Foil Dinner
I've been looking for quick and easy dinners and this has so many possibilities.

Crockpot Sugared Pecans or Walnuts
I am definitely saving this for Christmas. What a simple and easy gift...packaged in a cute mason jar or box! I can see the cuteness now!

Peanut Butter Sheet Cake
I'm thinking about making this for my dad's birthday. I could eat anything peanut butter!

Now it's your turn to link up!  Share with us what you've stumbled this week.  Read the guidelines and add your link below!

Saturday Stumbles

We're here at the weekend! Tonight was our middle school dance. Well, really it's more like a "run around the gym and chase my friends". No body really dances, so I'm glad to share some stumbles with you!

"The Kissing Hand" back to school tradition
Granted it's a little late for this, but you'll want to bookmark it for next year's school year.

Buffalo Chicken Nachos
I could eat nachos for the rest of my life, so this recipe doesn't disappoint!

All Single Ladies
I'm pretty sure that most of you that read my blog are married, but for the handful of you that are not, like me, this is a great reminder and encouragement. I don't know about you, but sometimes I just need to hear it from a stranger!

Now it's your turn to link up! Double check the guidelines and then share what you've stumbled this week!

Saturday Stumbles

Well, it's here. It comes every year and every year, I secretly hope it can't find me, but it always does.

It's the end of summer. School starts back on Monday. And so begins another year of sixth grade science. While the beginning of the school year can be a lot of work it's also one of the neatest aspects of being a teacher...that you get a fresh start every 9 months.

But now on to the stumbles!

Hot chocolate bar
Yes, it's 500 degrees outside and hot chocolate is probably the last thing on your mind, but I will definitely be remembering this for later.

Summer tomatoes, Corn, Crab & Avocado Salad

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Now THIS is more appropriate for the weather we've been having. What a beautiful salad!

Desktop Diorama

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Such an inexpensive way to brighten up someone's desk.

Allright...time for you to link up what cool things you've found this week!

Saturday Stumbles

Well, it appears that summer is officially over. I started back to work for pre-planning this week. The start of the school year is always exciting because it's always a chance to make a fresh start.

It's also a busy time. Unpacking and setting up a classroom can be overwhelming. On top of that, it's birthday time for my niece and nephew which means I've been busy the last few days making a cake. Oh not just any cake...a Rapunzel cake. I'll let ya know how it turns out!

Teacher Thank You gifts
This is something you'll want to bookmark for the end of the school year. Such a simple gift to get together. Definitely teacher approved!

Homemade peanut butter cups
There is no greater combination than chocolate and peanut butter. It truly is a match made in heaven!

DIY peppermint lip balm
I use chapstick more than I use lipstick so finding a recipe to make my own? I just might have to try it!

Join in the fun and link up below! Check the guidelines and then take a stroll around the other stumbles. Have fun!

Saturday Stumbles

This time last week, I was chillin' at the beach. But now it's back to the real world. The summer just isn't complete without a trip to the beach!

Weekly baby photo
Not that I'm anywhere close to being able to do this, but I love the idea!

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Story in a Bag
This could be great for anywhere, but I like the idea of using it on a road trip.

Strawberry Champagne Sparkler Cupcakes
I want to throw a party JUST to be able to make these!

Overseas Care Package
There is nothing better than coming home to find a package waiting for you and I am loving this one using envelopes.

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Now it's your turn to share what you stumbled this week.  Check out the guidelines and link up below.

Saturday Stumbles

Whew! Saturday has snuck up on me! My stumbles are slim this week as I'm trying to cram as much fun and relaxation as I can into the last week and a half I have left of summer before school starts again.

Pizza Fondue

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This is one of the most delicious things I've eaten and so fun to do with a group of friends. Just have everyone bring a veggie to dip!

Laurel Wreath tutorial

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My bloggy friend, Jessica, is one of the most creative people I know.  She has taken ordinary plastic spoons and made a wreath that could appear on the pages of Pottery Barn!  

Link up your stumbles below so we can all read the great things that are out there! 

Saturday Stumbles

Well if there was any doubt it's summer, the temperatures have solidified that fact. The heat index is over 100 degrees down here. It is almost suffocating when you walk outside.

So onto the stumbles!

Coconut M&M Cookies

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Coconut is one of those things I could take or leave. I love the flavor of coconuts, but not necessarily the actual fruit...er...nut...what the heck is a cocunut? Anyways, THESE cookies look really good to me. One reason is the coconut M&M's. Have you tried them?? Coming from someone who's not a huge fan of coconut, they are really good!!

Homemade Goldfish Crackers
These are really, really good!  I made some, although mine were sticks because I didn't have a goldfish cookie cutter.  I used a lowercase L cookie cutter.  Not quite as entertaining as a fish, but whatcha gonna do?!

Cute, simple packaging idea

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It really doesn't get easier than this, but the result is really cute!

What did you stumble this week?  Link up below so we can share the linky love!

Saturday Stumbles

Hope you all had a good week! Can't believe we're already into July!! So what did you find stumble worthy this week? I've got some good ones that I can't wait to share with you!

Camping Party

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This is pretty appropriate since I've been at Camp Rocks all week. I am just over the moon in love with everything about this party and I WILL do this one day :)

Homemade Microwave Popcorn
I love me some popcorn and this is so easy!

Coconut Drink cupcakes

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The cuteness is over the top in these little bites.  They make me smile!

Paper bowls

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Such a simple and inexpensive craft that you could decorate for any holiday or party.

Now it's your turn!  Link up below so we can all see the cool stuff you found this week!

Saturday Stumbles

Happy 4th of July weekend! I hope you all have a wonderful weekend with friends and family. If you're having a get together, here's a few things to make it stand out!

Patriotic Kabobs

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Flag Cake

If you're feeling really ambitious, this would be a showstopper!

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What a simple way to dress up your outdoor event!

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 Strawberry Flags

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I hope you'll link up below!  We all love to read what everyone has found this week.  Have a great holiday!!

Saturday Stumbles

My stumbles this week lean more towards the world of fashion. Oh, the world of fashion! A second home to me. I don't claim to have the greatest or tendiest fashion sense, but I sure do love playing around with it!

Nail art

Now this just looks like fun!

Feather extensions

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Feathers are all the rage right now and I think it's a fun accessory!

Necklace

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Such a cute and simple way to dress up jeans and a tee...my go to outfit!

Father's Day t-shirts
File this one away for next year, but the cuteness factor is off the charts.

So what did you find stumble worthy this week?  Swing by the guidelines, then link up below so we can all enjoy!!

Saturday Stumbles

Welcome to the weekend!  I hope you've all had a great week.  Looking forward to a great Father's Day weekend grilling out and spending time by the pool. 

Let's get to stumbling!!

How to Fish Tail Braid
This is such an easy thing to do even though it looks very intimidating.

Pomegranate Iced Tea

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Iced tea is a staple down here in the south, but the twist of pomegranate just screams summer!

Zucchini Feta Cheese Chopped Salad

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These ingredients could easily be picked up at your local farmers market and be a light, easy lunch.

I can't wait to read what you found this week! Link up below!

Saturday Stumbles

Hi Friends!  So excited for the weekend because I have NO plans!  Well...maybe heading to to the pool.  How's everyone summer going?  It's been H-O-T here in the south.  I think we're going on 13 straight days of temperatures over 90 degrees.  I can only imagine what's in store for the rest of the summer.

Ooey Gooey Peanut Butter Chocolate Brownies
Oh my word, this just screams GOODNESS!!  (Please refrain from drooling on your keyboard!)

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DIY Cake Stand
These are great for cakes and cupcakes, but I also like how they use it for jewelry, too. 

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Wallflowers
I know nothing about art, but this is something I would pay money for to hang on my wall!

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Rock Your Alphabet
This is all kinds of great! 

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BBQ Chicken Polenta Cakes
I have to confess that I don't know much about polenta.  Is it healthy?  Is it easy to use?  Is it like cornmeal?  But for some reason, these just look so good to me!

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I'm excited to read what you've stumbled this week!  If you're new here, be sure to check the guidelines then link up below!

Saturday Stumbles

[So glad you found me! I'm having issues with my domain and am probably going to have to change it. Please help me spread the word so everyone else will know where to find us!]

Aren't things supposed to slow down when school gets out? Apparently I didn't get that memo. I'm finishing up a year long program at school to become certified to teach gifted students. It almost as intense as a masters program! Plus I have a training seminar for a summer camp I help direct, cupcakes for a bridal luncheon, and a church event where I'll be selling Thirty One products!

But enough of that...onto the stumbles!

Tile Coaster tutorial

Outdoor Color Match game

Outdoor Streamers

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No Mess Marble painting

Pom Pom Cupcake Topper tutorial

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Homemade whipped Cream

Tuna Melts

Check the guidelines if you're new here and then link up below so we can all read your stumble worthy posts!

Saturday Stumbles

Let the summer begin!!  Friday was the last day of school...oh happy day :)

Now onto the stumbles.

Paperboard Mystery Message
What a fun message to receive in the mail!

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Marble Race
This will probably be making an appearance with my nieces and nephews sometime this summer!

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BLT Lettuce Wraps
I really need to just put myself on a diet of lettuce right now, but I'm thinking I like this lettuce recipe better :)

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Paper Quilled Earrings
These are made of paper!  They are beautiful, but a little intimidating.

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Alright, let's hear it!  What are your stumbles this week?  If you're new, welcome!  Check out the guidelines then link up below.