PaisleyJade

Things I'm Loving...

2012-01-27T07:00:00.000+13:00

I wholeheartedly believe that no matter what is happening in your life, there is always something that you can be thankful for... no matter how simple it is.

Wow, this week has gone by so fast! Here are a few of the things I am loving at the moment...

Loving my bedside clock (and coaster)...

Loving Licorice Allsorts! Probably some of my all time favourite lollies...

Loving waterslides set up in the backyard...

Loving this...

Totally loving my afternoon "winding down" tradition lately. Ginger Beer + Gary Larson = Good times!

Loving my family (who are all back to school next week!)...

Here's how you can join in....

Link up below with your blog post telling us what thing/s you are loving, and don't forget to link back to here in your post (or use this button below) and visit the others who have joined in too. Linky open until Sunday!!

Makings...

2012-01-26T07:00:00.000+13:00

Currently I'm making this "Ugly Granny Square Blanket". I call it ugly because it's being made out of my random scraps of wool... but I secretly think it's rather cute (and Symon has recently started referring to it as his, so obviously he thinks it's pretty awesome too).

I'm not sure how much crafting, baking or blogging I will get around to this year... we'll just have to wait and see. One thing I know for sure, if I can squeeze in a little bit of crochet here and there, I definitely will!!

For more crafty makings, go here.

Joining in with Our Creative Spaces.

Wordy Wednesday

2012-01-25T07:00:00.000+13:00

Loving these Scriptures that I've spotted on Pinterest (click on each one to find original source)...

Beautiful words, full of hope!

Easy Peasy Creamy Dessert

2012-01-24T07:00:00.000+13:00

As a young 18 year old bride, there weren't too many tasty treats that I could pull out of my repertoire to make for my poor new husband. I think I spent way too many weekends surfing at the beach with my Dad, rather than baking in the kitchen with my Mum.

When I think back to some of my early cooking attempts, I almost cringe in horror (well, lets be honest, I do actually cringe in horror!). I remember microwaving shop-bought pizzas for friends who visited. They were floppy and cold by the time each one had had it's turn in the microwave.

I also remember being asked to provide a rice salad for Christmas lunch on my hubby's side of the family. My rice salad consisted of boiled white rice with a few peas, pepper and salt and corn pieces. Symon still reminds me (with fake fondness) to this day of my horrid attempt at a rice salad.

Thankfully, time heals wounds (as well as teaches you how to utilize cook books).

There is one recipe however, that I learned while at Manual (or technology as they call it these days) while at Intermediate School that is actually delicious! The cooking class teacher who shared this recipe with us was a genius!

This is one of those things that I whip up when I have nothing much in the cupboard, and is soooo easy to improvise with (but does contain raw egg whites, so not the best thing obviously for pregnant women or those with egg allergies).

Ingredients

2-3 egg whites

½ - ¾ cup sugar (castor sugar is best, but normal will be ok if that's all you have)

1 - 2 pottles of fruit yoghurt (if you don't have yoghurt, you can improvise with the syrup from tinned fruit)

Beat the egg whites until soft peaks form then slowly add sugar, beating until it is a glossy, thick consistency.

Fold in yoghurt until well mixed (if you don't have yoghurt, slowly add about half a cup of fruit syrup while mixing with the beater.

Dish mixture into individual bowls/glasses, top with favourite fruit or chocolate chips, and chill until needed.

So there it is - go and make it right now, I dare you!

For more delicious recipes visit here.

Joining in with Tasty Tuesdays

♥ Holiday Bliss ♥

2012-01-23T07:00:00.000+13:00

Our holidays have come to an end, just as it feels like Summer has decided to arrive in New Zealand.

Boohoo.

We just couldn't let our holidays slip by without our annual pipi collecting trip...

Of course there was also some crab collecting, as well as a bit of starfish eating by Boo (the naughty dog ate 4 starfish in the end! Ewww!!).

I love the beach and all the adventures the kids have while there. So much to explore...

A day perfectly ended by eating pipis and cockles on fresh white bread, drizzled in vinegar. Sooooo good!! (and the ONLY way to eat cockles in my opinion).

Farewell Summer holidays... I will miss you (but I won't miss the sand you left behind in the togs, and the bits of uneaten starfish strewn around on the beach).

Tomorrow I start my new job - the first proper job I've had since becoming a Mum nearly 13 years ago!! I'm excited about the adventures before us this year.

Joining in with Life Made Lovely Mondays

Things I'm Loving...

2012-01-20T07:00:00.000+13:00

I wholeheartedly believe that no matter what is happening in your life, there is always something that you can be thankful for... no matter how simple it is.

Here are a few of the things I am loving at the moment...

Freshly baked gingerbread men... delicious!

Funnys (via here)...

Loving Russian dolls! My newest addition to my obsession...

And these amazing ones spotted in a cabinet at the Auckland Museum...

Loving that my boys built themselves a hut to sleep out in the other night... then all crept back into their own beds at 1:30am in the morning when it was pouring with rain!

Loving having fake lollys (crochet Licorice Allsorts) in the lolly jar. Way less tempting to sneak out a few now...

Loving Milk Duds... oh yeah (they make up for the fake sweets above).

Loving my four gifts from God. I love them to bits, even though they sometimes drive me crazy...

Here's how you can join in....

Crochet Rainbow Cake

2012-01-18T07:00:00.000+13:00

What's nearly as good as a Rainbow Cake? A Crochet Rainbow Cake!! It's pretty, fat free and just the type of thing I need after an over-indulgent Christmas season.

I came across this free pattern on One Sheepish Girl's blog. It's a simple pattern and could be used to make a variety of fun cake flavours... I'm thinking of things like a Chocolate and mint layer cake, or how about a strawberries and cream layer cake! A cute little cherry on the top like this would look great on it as well.

Mine doesn't look as cool as Meredith's version, but my girls are begging me to let them play with it, so that's good enough for me.

For more crafty makings, go here.
Joining in with Our Creative Spaces.

Going to the City

2012-01-17T16:12:00.001+13:00

Yesterday we took a family trip to the Big Smoke (Auckland) and had an awesome time! It's so funny how we live up in Northland, the place where all the city folk love to come and holiday at our beautiful beaches, yet here we are getting so excited about going to the city.

We went, we saw, we jumped and explored, we ate and generally made fools of ourselves in front of other tourists. Yep, we had a great day.

The kids were so excited about visiting the Museum and exploring Queen Street. We also found time to explore North Head and Mount Victoria. The tunnels and 'mushrooms' there, are tonnes of fun to explore and jump off.

We hadn't been to the Auckland Museum for years and years (probably about 10 years!). We all loved it, especially the insect drawers and stuffed creatures.

Our young Miss 4 had lots of questions all the way around... especially when we found a mummy and mummified birds!

Loving family time and cheap/free family activities...

As you can see, Symon had a great time too.

♥ Weekend Bliss ♥

2012-01-16T06:41:00.000+13:00

We had a beautiful weekend filled with tonnes of good stuff... things like relaxing, visiting the beach (and discovering a sand shark), getting more house painting done, relaxing, having a games night with great friends, going to church and chilling with the family.

That's what weekends are for, right?

p.s. photos taken with my phone... cause I forgot to take my camera, and everyone needs a few dozen photos of a dead shark, don't they?!?

Linking up with Life Made Lovely Monday

Things I'm Loving 2012!!!

2012-01-13T07:00:00.000+13:00

I wholeheartedly believe that no matter what is happening in your life, there is always something that you can be thankful for... no matter how simple it is.

It's our first Things I'm Loving post for 2012!! Super keen to see what you have all been loving and thankful for lately. Here are a few of the things I am loving at the moment...

Loved spotting this white peacock the other day! We were dropping off an injured bird to our local bird recovery centre, and saw this beauty perched up high on a balcony. Still stunning creatures, even in white!

Loving the morning sky here in my city. The girls commented that God must have been having fun making the clouds look silly that day. Cute.

Loving some of my Christmas treats...

Loving making softies for new born babes when I have time...

Loving eating fresh fish! Hubby and his best mate went fishing the other night and caught some fish (after a long fish drought). Symon cooked both of these up (we had bought the flounder)...

Loving new hair doo's for the year. She so desperately wanted a fringe, so thanks to her Nana (the hairdresser), that's what she got!

Loving hydrangeas growing outside my kitchen window...

Two of my favourite things... Boo and crochet!!

And finally, loving that my baby has gone from a wee girl who couldn't hold her breath under water, to a clever little swimmer after only 4 lessons! Super proud of her (and quite relieved).

Looking forward to seeing what you have been loving lately!

Here's how you can join in....

The Great Awakening...

2012-01-12T07:00:00.000+13:00

A bit of music to help get you through to the weekend... currently loving Leeland's new album, The Great Awakening.

Good stuff right there folks.

Oh PLUS - first "Things I'm Loving" post for 2012 coming tomorrow - get yours ready to join in! So much to be thankful for this year already.

I'm excited!!

Ginger & Apricot Slice

2012-01-11T07:00:00.000+13:00

My amazing Mum made this delicious slice recently, and I just had to share the recipe!! It's from Annabel Langbein's book, "Free Range in the City". She has a tonne of delicious recipes here as well.

There's something about the combination of ginger, pistachios and apricots that is waaaaay too good!! Add to that the fact that this is a no bake slice, and one that you can change the ingredients around to suit what you have in your pantry, and your away laughing!

Ginger and Apricot Slice

Ingredients

100g unsalted butter

3/4 cup (185ml) sweetened condensed milk

1 cup (150g) dried apricots, finely chopped

1/2 cup (100g) crystallised ginger, finely chopped, plus extra for topping

1 cup (90g) desiccated coconut

1 tsp ground ginger

2 tblsp lemon juice

375 plain biscuits, crushed to fine crumbs

2 tblsp pistachios, shelled and chopped

Icing:

50g unsalted butter

1 tsp lemon juice

3 cups icing sugar, sifted

Method

Line a 30cm x 24cm Swiss roll pan or baking pan with baking paper.

Heat butter and condensed milk in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring until the butter melts. Remove from heat.

In a separate bowl, mix together the apricots, crystallised ginger, coconut, ground ginger and lemon juice. Then add crushed biscuits and stir to combine.

Add butter and condensed milk mixture and stir well to combine.

Press into the prepared pan and refrigerate for 1 hour or until set.

For the icing: Melt the butter and mix with the lemon juice, icing sugar and 2 tablespoons of boiling water, until smooth. Spread icing over the chilled base and sprinkle with extra chopped cryst. allised ginger and pistachios.

Leave to set, then cut into squares. Store in an airtight container in a cool place.

For more delicious recipes visit here.

Joining in with Tasty Tuesdays

Utter Randomness...

2012-01-09T18:42:00.000+13:00

We're in cruise mode here at the moment... trying to have some family holiday time while also trying to get our house painted. We always planned to get it done this Summer, but hello... it's pretty hard to paint your house when it's constantly raining!

Trying to paint over the previous colour: ghastly orange

So yeah, just doing the normal Kiwi things...

Like BBQs with family,

Buying up all the kid's school stationery for school this year. Four kids = mega bucks worth of stationery!

Reading and playing games... family favourite at the moment would have to be Pictureka (cause all 6 of us can play it!).

And also, doing things like wearing gumboots while also wearing togs and jumping over the sprinkler.

Fun times. Just your normal, everyday Summer here in The Land of the Long White Cloud.

Joining in with Life Mady Lovely Monday

Softie Giveaway Winner!!

2012-01-08T16:36:00.002+13:00

Yay - it's time to announce the Softie Giveaway winner!!!

Thanks so everyone who entered and your lovely comments... and now to find out who won (thanks to random.org)...

Comment number 5 was CPatsy!!!

Congratulations, I will email you for your address!

Thanks everyone.

Crochet Moustache

2012-01-06T07:00:00.000+13:00

Doesn't my boy look all grown up! Loving this wee crochet moustache pattern from here.

For more crafty makings, go here.

Joining in with Our Creative Spaces.

Lately...

2012-01-05T07:00:00.000+13:00

Lately, we've been loving the holidays here, especially getting to spend more time together as a family. It's supposed to be Summer, but so far there has been quite a lot of rain!

When the kids start to drive us mad, we take a five minute drive from our house, and this is what we find...

Beautiful isn't it? Can you see why they filmed movies like The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe and The Lord of the Rings here in New Zealand?

Totally loving New Zealand!

Brown Sugar Biscuits

2012-01-04T07:00:00.000+13:00

After the rich food of Christmas, these biscuits are the perfect treat. I love their chewy texture and spicy taste, and am sure that by adding chocolate chips or nuts, they would be even more tasty.

Ingredients

170g (6 ounces) unsalted butter, at room temperature

1¼ cups dark brown sugar

1 large egg, at room temperature

2 cups all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking soda

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon ground ginger

½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).

Place the butter and sugar in a bowl and beat until smooth and creamy. Add the egg and beat well. Scrape down the sides of the bowl. Place the flour, baking soda, salt, and spices in a separate bowl and mix well. Add to the butter mixture and beat until everything is well incorporated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl and beat again.

Drop large teaspoonfuls of dough onto an unbuttered cookie sheet about 2 inches apart and bake until the edges are just brown, 8 to 12 minutes. For crispy cookies, let cool on the sheet. Let the cookie sheet cool completely between batches and repeat with the remaining dough.

Original recipe from here.

For more delicious recipes visit here.

Softie Giveaway!!

2012-01-01T17:19:00.000+13:00

***GIVE AWAY NOW CLOSED*** See here for the winner!

It's a New Year!! Happy 2012 people!

I thought that it's also a perfect time for a softie giveaway too! This little pink and yellow bunny is super sweet and looking forward to a new home... and the cool thing is that any of you can enter (even if you live in Timbuktu) - no strings attached.

To enter, leave your name and email address in the comment section below (unless your email address is linked to your blog). Only one entry per person please.

The winner will be drawn next week, Sunday 8th January at 7pm (NZ time).

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Joining in with Life Made Lovely Monday

For more crafty makings, go here.

Farewell 2011!

2011-12-31T18:50:00.000+13:00

Just wanting to wish you all a wonderful New Year!!

If this New Years eve is like the last few I've seen, I'll pretty much be like Boo here at around 11pm. I'm such a Nana!

And just for fun, the PaisleyJade blog headers from 2011...

Happy New Year everyone!!

The year that was...

2011-12-29T07:00:00.000+13:00

As the year comes to a close, I love looking back at the things that have gone on. I am often amazed at how much has actually happened, even though it has felt as though the year has whizzed by.

This next year brings quite a few changes for us as a family. Firstly, our baby is off to school and our oldest is entering High School. Along with that, I am starting a new job (whoop whoop) and also, Symon and I are going to be inducted as the Senior Pastors of our church (woah!!) after having been Youth Pastors there for over 14 years!! Yes, big changes indeed, but we are excited (in that scared/excited kind of way) and totally know God's peace through it all.

God is so good!!

With 2012 knocking at the door, here is my annual year in review post for 2011 (more for my sake than yours)...

January

The year started off with some moustache craziness in the form of moustache cupcakes, and me learning the art of thankfulness. I discovered Peanut Butter Crinkles (mmmm!!) and shared my favourite pancake and and Ginger slice recipes!! Makings included bunnys and felt donuts, coffee cup sleeves and crochet coasters (much to my husbands horror). Our bathroom got a zhuzh up, I met up with some of my favourite blogging buddies, and as always, God took my breath away.

February

Our family went on the coolest bush adventure, my Dad totally rocked at surfing, I went on a journey of learning to really love, our baby turned 4 and we celebrated with a Rainbow Cake (my first ever!). This was the month that our amazing Whangarei Bloggers first met each other. I love these girls! Sadly, this was also the month that our city of Christchurch suffered a horrible earthquake. Makings included the most delicious Milk Tablet, Granny Bunting, Red Velvet Cupcakes, Neopolitan Cake and my hubby made the most amazing Watermelon shark!

March

I made my love his very own string of heart bunting, realised it was 11 years since my precious brother left us, and then discovered the perfect cure for Man-sickness!! Other makings included Lolly Slice, Scones, Chocolate Zucchini Cake, a crochet headband and truck load of softies all for a very good cause.

April

Symon and I celebrated 15 years of marriage, and went away for a romantic holiday! Boo got the cone of shame, and also made me laugh with her funniest photos ever! Symon and I enjoyed (actually, Symon endured) the Royal Wedding. Makings included a Crochet Hot Cross Bun, granny squares, Spiced Carrot Muffins, and Feijoa Muffins.

May

I finished my baby granny stripe blanket, celebrated an awesome Mother's Day, followed by my beautiful big girl's birthday, which included making (and eating) this delicious Marbled Rainbow Cake!! Other makings included Ginger Coconut Slice, this cute Fluffy Cloud Mobile, Chocolate Maple Crunch and Crochet Wrist Warmers. I also shared my favourite tips on How to Crochet, and was super proud of my boy for his fundraising efforts.

June

I made some cute Mug Cozies, and celebrated another birthday with another marbled rainbow cake! I discovered the recipe for Mini Oreo Cheesecakes, made Symon his very own Yeti Softie for his birthday, and our family had our very own Mad Hatters Tea Party! Other makings included Crochet Slippers, Chocolate, Walnut & Oat Slice and Apply Cozies.

July

My darling guy made me a 3 course meal, my blogging buddies got together to meet the lovely Anya. I made Donut Muffins (oh my!) and shared my Mum's best ever Carrot Muffin recipe!! Symon grew a beard (hehe), and I made the most delicous Chocolate & Cheesecake Muffins!! I finished the Granny Square Poncho!! Other makings included cute fluffy softies, and a beanie just for me.

August

I started making progress with the Mario Mushroom blanket, and hung out with my totally normal family. I made my first ever Sock Monkey with my blogging buddies, and a crochet Kerchief. A major highlight of this month was getting to meet up with Kiwi Bloggers from all over New Zealand. Such a fabulous time!! Makings included a tonne of softies as well as Biscotti, Bar Biscuits, Bacon & Egg Pie and Caramel Oat Slice!

September
My baby overcame a big fear, Symon was surprised with a Sasquatch softie, and I reminded you all that we are all pretty normal. I made my favourite Mustard Crochet Coasters, and had a moustache crazy time with my blogging buddies. I also realised that the Mushroom blanket was a rather massive project! Makings included Marshmallow Plums, Springtime Beanie, Tan Squares, Honey Ricebubble Slice,

October

I shared some of my recent thoughts about Motherhood, shared one of my most favourite and simplest cake/cupcake recipes, I finally finished the Mario Mushroom Blanket, just in time for my son's birthday! He had a fabulous birthday, included a giant green layer cake. We won the World Cup Rugby!!! I was totally spoiled with moustache goodies, and had a fun time at my cousin's 30th birthday! Makings included a moustache mobile cover, Odd-Fellow Roll, my Dental Clinic beanie, a crochet cupcake, and Indian Cheesecake!!!

November

I made moustache Cut-Out Cookies, and shared with you all how to make your very own Boo! We had the amazing experience of seeing (and some of us swimming with) dolphins! I had an amazing birthday and was so blessed. Other makings included Crochet Covered Stones, Bottomless Quiche, my first crochet dishcloth, Coconut Haystacks, a crochet Koala Piggy thing and a grocery tote.

December

I attempted (and devoured) the Cake of Three Milks, and shared some of my favourite Christmas yummies. We also tried to get into the Christmas mood by making Christmas Bunting, Christmas biscuits, and some more Christmas bunting (and a cute Robot Softie). Oh, and there was some Eggnog amigurumi going on as well! We also went through a really scary few days, where we nearly lost Symon's Dad. Thankfully he pulled through, and we were able to celebrate a beautiful Christmas together.

What a year - loving my family and friends, and thanks to everyone who follows along on this journey with me. Thanks for all of your lovely comments - I love hearing from you!

See you in 2012!

For other year in review posts, go here.

Christmas remnants...

2011-12-28T07:00:00.000+13:00

Still enjoying the remnants of Christmas here, and trying to figure out how we are going to work off all of that delicious trifle made by my lovely June Nan...

How was your Christmas?

Christmas 2011

2011-12-27T07:00:00.000+13:00

What a Christmas! We were totally blessed in so many ways...

We started off our Christmas Eve with our traditional "Jesus Birthday Cake". Let's just say that this year's one was way more edible than last years disaster...

On Christmas Day and Boxing Day, we spent time with our precious family. We were especially blessed to share our Christmas with Dad Drake who we nearly lost (well, actually did for a moment there) just last week.

There was crazy shenanigans in the back yard...

Beautiful cousins having photos together...

The annual Christmas family skype photo (last year's here)...

And many more family photos...

For some reason this year felt extra special... the sense of togetherness was so much more appreciated.

I am feeling so full (and not just tummy wise).

Family is so precious, people are so special... and I love that fact that God Himself became a person to bring hope and love to this hurting world. You are so loved and precious.

Happy Christmas everyone!!!

Merry Christmas

2011-12-24T07:00:00.000+13:00

Merry Christmas everyone!! Here's hoping you have a wonderful Christmas with your nearest and dearest.

Eggnog Amigurumi

2011-12-22T07:00:00.000+13:00

It's nearly Christmas, and the perfect time for some Amigurumi Eggnog if I must say so myself!

I found the pattern for this cute mug here, and decided to fill it with eggnog instead of coffee. I would love to make a little set with coffee, hot chocolate and even juice.

Our family has a wee tradition of drinking eggnog around Christmas time. If you're keen to try making the real stuff, check this recipe out! I think we might have to make some of this to sip on during Christmas Eve..

For more crafty makings, go here.

Joining in with Our Creative Spaces.

Lately...

2011-12-21T07:00:00.000+13:00

Lately we've been...

: : Baking Afghans

: : Enjoying end of year concerts and plays

: : Visiting parks to fill in the school holidays (must have a 'park crawl' day sometime soon)

: : Washing the pretend dishes, cause I've had too many real dishes broken lately.

: : Moving our clothesline (the NZ clothesline is officially the hardest thing to dig out and move)

: : Excitedly waiting for Christmas

: : While we enjoy the "New Zealand Christmas tree" (Pohutukawa)

: : And keeping hubby's Dad (Grandad) in our prayers, after a pretty tough week health wise.

What have you all been up to lately?

Just Wanna' Say...

2011-12-19T16:23:00.000+13:00

I know it's not Christmassy, but hey... it's still O for Awesome...

Things I'm Loving...

2011-12-16T07:00:00.000+13:00

I wholeheartedly believe that no matter what is happening in your life, there is always something that you can be thankful for... no matter how simple it is.

This is our last Things I'm Loving linky for the year!!! I will be leaving this linky open until Christmas, so you have no excuse not to link up your lovings!! ;)

Here are a few of the things I am loving at the moment...

Loving making extra ~~naughty~~ delicious Peppermint Bark. This version is a three layer peppermint bark, inspired by this recipe. This stuff is dangerous people... only make it when you are expecting a crowd or to give away...

Loving Playcentre!! On Wednesday we officially had our last day at Playcentre... ever. It's been an amazing journey, spread over 11+ years with our 4 children. I have met so many wonderful people and have watched my children grow and develop into amazing kids thanks to it, as well as growing myself. With our baby off to school next year, she was super proud to receive her leaving certificate and special gift...

Loving spending quality time with my big boy. He is growing up sooooo fast, so I'm savouring every minute I can...

Loving the Rosella's that regularly visit our place...

Loving the way our girls "help Daddy wash the car"...

Loving spontaneous family trips up North to buy cheap trees...

This is us on our way up...

And on our way back home (reminds me of this trip)...

Loving this amazingly delicious berry cheesecake I had the pleasure of sampling, made by the wonderful Arna-Lise... sooooooo good!!

And finally, loving this cute Christmas ornament from my beautiful blogging buddy Leonie (Kiwi At Heart). Definitely the cutest ornament hanging on my Christmas tree - thank you so much Leonie!!!

Here's how you can join in....

Makings...

2011-12-15T07:00:00.000+13:00

A couple of last minute makings squeezed into an already busy week...

Mr Robot guy - I haven't made one of these for ages, and I do love them!

And some Christmas bunting (ahem, yes... more Christmas bunting). I promise that will be the last lot of bunting for awhile. Seriously... how much bunting can a husband cope with?

For more crafty makings, go here.

Joining in with Our Creative Spaces.

Christmas Hearts & Stars (and trees)!

2011-12-13T07:00:00.000+13:00

I had a brain wave over the weekend! I found my long lost Christmas cookie cutters and decided that I needed to urgently make some Christmas biscuits!! The brilliant brain wave of icing them with white, peppermint icing and sprinkled with crushed candy canes sealed the deal.

This recipe for Christmas Hearts and Stars (thanks to my Granny's Biscuits recipe book) turned out a brilliant batch of biscuits, also suitable for hanging on the Christmas tree (but ours didn't last that long). I am sure any basic biscuit recipe would work fine, but the special Christmas icing is a must at this time of year!!

Ingredients

250g butter, softened

⅔ cup sugar
1 egg
1½ cups flour
pinch of salt
1 teaspoon vanilla essence

Cream butter and sugar and beat in egg. Sift flour and salt and add gradually to butter mixture. Add vanilla. Wrap the dough and chill well. If the dough seems a little brittle, soften by kneading with your hands.

Roll out to 6 mm -thick and cut with heart or star shapped cutters. If you want to hang the biscuits make a small hole near the top of each one.

Bake at 180°C for 15-20 minutes, unti very lightly coloured. Allow to cool on the baking tray and decorate with white icing (I added peppermint essence) and sprinkle with silver balls (I used crushed candy canes).

Delicious!

For more delicious recipes visit here.
Joining in with Tasty Tuesdays.

♥ Weekend Bliss ♥

2011-12-12T07:00:00.000+13:00

Oh yeah! The Christmas baking has commenced, and I suddenly feel very festive as well as 5 pounds heavier.

So far we have made Peppermint Bark, Christmas biscuits (recipe coming tomorrow) and I've also whipped up a few crochet stars for coasters (but I decided not to give them to Symon for Christmas as I know he's rather enjoy them right now *cough cough*).

That reminds me, I must make sure I get his special mug out to go with his Christmas coasters. He is soooooo going to think I'm the bestest wife ever!

Joining in with Life Made Lovely Monday

Things I'm Loving...

2011-12-09T07:00:00.000+13:00

I wholeheartedly believe that no matter what is happening in your life, there is always something that you can be thankful for... no matter how simple it is.

It's that busy time of the year, but there is also so much to love! Here are a few of the things I am loving at the moment...

Loving hanging with my favourite guy on his days off...

Loving more birthday treats! Did I ever tell you how much I love Russian Dolls?

Thanks to Meghan for this special surprise parcel in the mail!!

Loving girls who rock at mowing the lawn (she takes after her Grandma)!

Loving how God paints the sky at night...

Loving the most amazing Oreo Cookie Frappés!!

Loving winning this cute purse from the amazing Sophie at Little Gumnut...

Finally, loving Christmas lights. Some may think of them as cheap and tacky (hey - I might be that 'some' one) but there is nothing quite like seeing the wide eyes of your kids as you drive past them.

Here's how you can join in....

Christmas Crochet Bunting

2011-12-08T07:00:00.000+13:00

I love my granny Christmas bunting! I made sure it was hung up before Symon knew what I was doing, so he could ~~complain~~ admire it (he's such a big fan of my crochet bunting).

To make the crochet trees, I followed this tutorial (Grandma Tree tutorial), and the stars were made using this tutorial (Jelly Xmas Star). You could always do some cute red, green and white Granny Bunting too.

I'm tempted to make a couple of red stars as coasters now too (maybe Symon would love some crochet coasters for Christmas????).

For more crafty makings, go here.

Joining in with Our Creative Spaces.

Christmas Yummies...

2011-12-06T07:00:00.000+13:00

It's that time of year again... Christmas end of year functions at every turn, children needing plates of food to take to school, and that desire to make some delicious treats for your neighbours, children's school teachers, and especially friends and family for Christmas celebrations.

I love things that are tasty, simple and quick to make. If you are in the mood to make something, here is a collection of a few of my most favourite goodies to bake/cook at Christmas time, previously shared on my blog.

Sweet Things

Peppermint Bark - My most favourite Christmas treat to make... this stuff never last long in our household.

Coconut Ice - The ideal Christmas time treat. Quick and easy to make and keeps for ages in the refrigerator. I always roll mine into balls and dip in shredded coconut. Fabulous as a Christmas gift.

Chocolate Truffles - another favourite treat of mine to whip up and keep in the refrigerator until needed. Another great Christmas gift.

Chocolate Licorice Truffles - need I say more... these are so good!!

Gingerbread Christmas Biscuits & Spicy Dutch Biscuits - perfect for using your Christmas shaped cookie cutters on.

Coconut Haystacks - A great Christmas treat, especially when the tops or bottoms are dipped in melted chocolate!

Lolly Slice - A fabulous Christmas version of this is made by adding chopped walnuts, cherrys and marshmallows. Even more fun rolled into balls!

Odd-Fellow Roll - The peppermints make this ideal for Christmas, or you could even try making with crushed candy canes!

Vanilla Coconut Cake - A great basic cake or cupcake recipe, perfect for adding other flavours and so quick and simple to make and even freeze for later. Just for Christmas, pop a candy cane on top of cupcakes made with this recipe.

Banoffi Pie - a delicious Christmas dessert!

Marshmallow Plums - Such a cute little dessert, wonderful for Christmas celebrations.

Oaty Pancakes - the perfect thing for Christmas or Boxing Day brunch, especially good knowing that oats are involved after all that naughty Christmas eating!

Savoury
Blue Vein, Broccoli & Mushroom Quiche - a perfect dish for Christmas.

Potato Salad - my go to dish, especially good for preparing the day before. Best dish to go with the classic Kiwi Christmas BBQ.

Kiwifruit Maranade - A classic New Zealand maranade for meat, this one is delicious and easy to prepare.

Drinks & Dips

Roquamole Dip - A deliciously strong dip, great for serving with corn chips.

Iced Coffee - only the best ice coffee recipe in the world! I love serving this with ice cream or whipped cream.

For more delicious recipes visit here.

Joining in with Life Made Lovely Monday & Tasty Tuesdays

Sweet Christmas...

2011-12-04T20:15:00.001+13:00

Being a grown up means that sometimes we can overlook the beauty and fun in life... even at Christmas time. I learn so much through my kids and am so thankful for seeing life through their eyes.

It pains me to say that getting the Christmas decorations out this weekend almost felt like a bit of a chore... but as I watched the excited face of my youngest girl, and heard the squeals of delight and listened to the little made up tunes about Christmas being sung with her sweet soft voice as we put the Christmas tree up and started to decorate it, I felt ashamed. Ashamed that I, once again, had been caught up in the stress and drag of this time of year, totally forgetting about the essence of Christmas (yes, we have a fake tree... and I love it!!).

Peace, Love, Joy.

Unlike last year, I decided to let the girls help me decorate the Christmas tree. We listened to Christmas music (this album - which we loooooove!!!), and we talked about what Christmas means to us (which also included correcting the fact that no, Adams and Eve were not Jesus' parents).

It is beginning to feel a lot like Christmas, and thanks to seeing it through the eyes of my beautiful little ones, I am feeling excited indeed!

Things I'm Loving...

2011-12-02T07:00:00.000+13:00

I wholeheartedly believe that no matter what is happening in your life, there is always something that you can be thankful for... no matter how simple it is.

Here are a few of the things I am loving at the moment...

Loving Hunter's Paradise - the coolest place that my son and his friend built over the weekend in our backyard. The funniest thing was that the girls decided to make a sign with "Girl's Paradise" on it to copy them, then went and stuck it to an old stove we had outside! Haha - slightly stereotypical.

Loving amazing birthday treats, including tonnes of my favourite things...

Loving Lemon Curd - my favourite!!

Totally loving the latest Leeland album. This song would have to be my favourite!

Loving Dad's that read cute books in cafés to their daughter (Fish Out of Water - it's a classic!)...

Loving these new Ginger Beer iceblocks!!!

Really loving Jelly TV!! Great clips about the Bible for kids to watch... our favourites would have to be the Bentley Brothers...

Lastly, loving my funny (and slightly crazy) guy...

Here's how you can join in....

Tres Leches (Three Milks Cake)

2011-12-01T07:00:00.000+13:00

I decided I would have a go at making myself a birthday cake this year!

A long time ago a friend (thanks Emily) gave me the 'secret squirrel' recipe for a Latin American cake called "Tres Leches", otherwise known as "The Three Milks Cake". I have treasured my sacred copy, and after many years, finally decided I was ready to actually attempt making it for myself, only to discover my copy lost!!

Thankfully today we have this wonderful thing called Google - and I found a similar recipe here.

I love this cake - mainly because of the very delicious (and naughty) concept of making a light, spongy cake, then pouring a mixture of 'three milks' (cream, evaporated milk and condensed milk) all over the cooked cake, letting it soak into the cake and set before icing.

Sooooooooooo good!!

Ingredients:

Cake:

6 large eggs, separated

2 cups sugar

2 cups all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 cup milk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cream topping:

1 14-ounce can evaporated milk

1 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk

1 cup heavy cream

Icing:

3 tablespoons water

3/4 cup granulated sugar

3 large egg whites

Directions

To make the cake: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease and flour a 9 by 13-inch baking dish and set aside.

In the bowl of a mixer, beat the egg whites on low speed until soft peaks form. Add the sugar gradually with the mixer running and peak to stiff peaks. Add the egg yolks 1 at a time, beating well after the addition of each.

Sift together the flour and baking powder and add to the egg mixture, alternating with the milk. (Do this quickly so the batter does not lose volume.) Add the vanilla. Bake until golden, 25 minutes.

To make the cream topping: In a blender, combine the evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream and blend on high speed.

Remove the cake from the oven and while still warm, pour the cream mixture over it. Let sit and cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate until well chilled, at least 4 hours or overnight.

To make the icing: Once the cake is completely chilled, in a saucepan combine the water and sugar.

Bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and stir to dissolve the sugar. Cook until the mixture reaches the soft ball stage. Remove from the heat. In a medium bowl, beat the egg whites to soft peaks. While beating, add the hot syrup in a stream. Beat until all the syrup has been added, the mixture cools, and a glossy icing forms.

To assemble: Remove the cake from the refrigerator and spread the icing evenly across the top.

Recipe source here.

For more delicious recipes visit here.
Joining in with Tasty Tuesdays.

♥ Birthday Love ♥

2011-11-30T07:00:00.000+13:00

I have been seriously blessed this birthday. It's almost been 4 days of celebrating with family and friends. Thank you so much everyone for your birthday love and blog/facebook comments.

Yesterday a few of my girlfriends and I took a road trip together to the township of Warkworth. We were keen to check out the award winning Chocolate Brown, an amazing shop that sells delicious sweets and handmade chocolates and fudge with attached café.

We had such a great time (eating and buying way too many delicious goodies)! Thanks Joy-Lynn, Jackie and Lisa, you girls are precious friends.

I have some birthday goodies to show off on Friday and an amazing cake recipe to share tomorrow too!!

xoxo

Birthday Girl...

2011-11-28T07:00:00.000+13:00

Guess who's birthday it is today?

Mine - eeeeek!! (don't you just love my turtle neck sweater and top knot?)

No grizzling here about the onset of grey hair and wrinkles - I'm just totally thankful for life. So many people don't even make it to my age, so I am loving every moment of it (and it's always a good thing to realise each year on your birthday, that you will never ever look this young again, so make the most of it! Even when I'm 80 I'm going to look better than when I'm 90 - ha!).

This next year is going to be full of new and exciting adventures, not only including a new job, our last baby off to school and our oldest entering high school, but also a new season in our role in our church. I'm excited, nervous and ever so thankful for my amazingly awesome husband, family, friends and most of all God!!

Love you guys!!

p.s. thanks Mum and Dad for being the best parents ever (even if you dressed me in Ernie-like clothes).

Joining in with Life Made Lovely Monday

Things I'm Loving...

2011-11-25T07:00:00.000+13:00

I wholeheartedly believe that no matter what is happening in your life, there is always something that you can be thankful for... no matter how simple it is.

Here are a few of the things I am loving at the moment...

The biggest highlight of my week would have to be dolphins!! Earlier this week our family joined with others to farewell a precious friend of ours heading back home to South Africa (we will miss you Hanneke!!). While we shared a meal at the beach, a group of dolphins turned up and put on a great goodbye show.

Symon and our oldest boy even got to swim with them...

Loving my moustache straws...

Loving the excitement that flying a kite for the first time brings... check out that face!!

Loving watching the kids enjoy their first proper beach outing and family swim this summer...

Loving snuggle buddies. I reckon that these "sworn enemies" are secretly best mates. Remember last time?

Loving making my "Ugly Blanket"...

What things are you loving at the moment?

Here's how you can join in....

Crochet Grocery Tote

2011-11-24T07:00:00.000+13:00

I love the idea of making my very own recyclable grocery bags!

I came across this Crochet Grocery Tote crochet pattern at the purl bee. Not only is the pattern free (yippee) but it's super simple - so simple, that I am sure even a crochet beginner would find it fun and easy to make.

The tote in the pattern is made with linen 'yarn' but I used plain old acrylic, and it came out fine.

I can't wait to take it with me next time I do the groceries... that is, if I can pry it off my crochet tote loving husband (poser)...

For more crafty makings, go here.

Joining in with Our Creative Spaces.

Public Crafting

2011-11-23T07:00:00.000+13:00

In case you weren't aware, there is a little party going on in my "Craft Nerds Going Public" flickr group. I thought I'd share a few of my favourite photos - these people are making it cool to craft in public again (well, we like to kid ourselves that we are but people do still stare, point and laugh at us)!!

Selana knitting in public

Miss M and friends crafting in public - knitting, crochet, cross stitch and embroidery!!

Sas crocheting in IKEA

Knitting on Broklyn Bridge

Feel free to join in on the fun - take a photo of yourself or a friend crafting in public (crochet, knitting or whatever) and post it in the group!

Craft Nerds Unite!!

Craft Nerds Going Public flickr group.

For more crafting in public posts, go here.

♥ Weekend Bliss ♥

2011-11-21T07:00:00.000+13:00

Tonnes of weekend fun was had this weekend!

Our local Playcentre held a Gala day which was awesome!! There were heaps of games, goodies to buy and even pony rides and a petting zoo. We manned the ticket stand together for most of the Gala, but also had some time to check out the fun stuff. The girls and I loved it!

This little girl kept squealing with delight for her whole pony ride. It was her first time riding on a pony and she loved it! p.s. I love the Lazy Day skirts - so easy to make!!

Hubby and I also went on a road trip on Sunday, as Symon was preaching at a church in a nearby town. We discovered Burton coffee there, which Symon Burton thought was pretty awesome.

Check out the amazing New Zealand landscape. We are so blessed to live in such a beautiful country!!

How was your weekend?

Joining in with Life Made Lovely Monday

Things I'm Loving...

2011-11-18T07:00:00.000+13:00

I wholeheartedly believe that no matter what is happening in your life, there is always something that you can be thankful for... no matter how simple it is.

Here are a few of the things I am loving at the moment...

Loving my darlings (including our darling Boo)...

Loving getting into a routine of baking on the weekend, and freezing for the lunches the following week...

Loving new shoes (note to self: don't put fake tan on your feet late at night when you are rushed, otherwise you will have orange feet for the next day at work. Always remember: blinding white feet are way better than bright orange feet!)...

Loving Berry & Biscuit Whittaker's chocolate!! This slab didn't last very long at our place...

Loving Crochetdermy! Remember when I told you about Feltidermy, well check out these amazing Crochetdermy creations made by Shauna Richardson. Very clever!

Loving the fact that messy rooms can always be tidied up...

Loving purple cauliflower!!

What are you loving at the moment?

Here's how you can join in....

Pink Piggy... ummm errrr Koala

2011-11-17T07:00:00.000+13:00

Um yeah, this was supposed to be a really cute little amigurumi piggy... but I think (along with everyone else in the Drake household) that it looks more like a Koala.

I stumbled across a free pattern for Rainbow Piggies the other day, and decided to have a go at whipping one of these piggies up the other night.

I honestly thought that pink and brown would be a good mix, but apparently not!

So I dedicate this funny Koala to all of my Australian bloggy friends and family (especially you Anya, Leonie and Lisa).

For more crafty makings, go here.

Joining in with Our Creative Spaces.

Coconut Haystacks

2011-11-15T07:00:00.000+13:00

I have such fond memories of making Coconut Haystacks as a child. It is such a simple recipe (3 ingredients!!), and one my Mum would often let me make all by myself. I even remember sometimes colouring my haystacks pink!

These little morsels are quick and fun to make, and perfect to eat plain, or even better drizzled with melted chocolate.

Ingredients

1 large egg

½ cup caster sugar (4 oz)

2½ cups desiccated coconut (½ lb)

Method

Beat the egg and sugar together until thick and creamy. Mix in the coconut (the mixture can seem quite dry).

Using an egg cup, pack the mixture into the cup, then turn the mixture out onto a greased and lined baking tray.

Cook the haystacks in a moderate oven for 15 minutes. Makes approximately 12-15 haystacks.

Does anyone else remember making these?

For more delicious recipes visit here.
Joining in with Tasty Tuesdays.

Handsome and Gretyl

2011-11-14T07:00:00.000+13:00

A little bit of acoustic/folk music for your Monday.

Loving this single from Handsome and Gretyl.

Free single download here.

Joining in with Life Made Lovely Monday.

Things I'm Loving...

2011-11-11T07:00:00.000+13:00

I wholeheartedly believe that no matter what is happening in your life, there is always something that you can be thankful for... no matter how simple it is.

Here are a few of the things I am loving at the moment...

Loving my local Playcentre AGM. The theme was "Blast from the Past", so we dragged out our High School fashion items, me wearing a rad fluro top, tapered jeans, leg warmers, tonnes of blusher/eye shadow and Kung Fu shoes!! Belive it or not, the Kung Fu shoes are back in fashion and were borrowed off my eldest son.

I'm loving all of the amazing things I've been receiving in the mail. Things like...

This cute vintage looking owl necklace I won in a giveaway of Gail's (it's all the way from China!). Thanks so much Gail!!

Some more amazing moustache goodies all the way from Leonie in Australia...

And this new CD/DVD from Citipointe Church (Hope is Erupting) from my brother and sister-in-law (an early Christmas pressy)...

Loving spotting Camels sitting in high chairs, enjoying donuts...

Loving it when my children have a go at a competition and win a prize (spot the middle picture at the bottom?). This was a competition put on by our local library to create your own superhero, and my girl created "Jungle Girl" (hehe)...

This week has been fun and full-on! I've been working this week (having job training) and have another week to go next week before I start officially next year. My guy has been an AMAZING help! He has always helped with the washing, dishes, bathing kids etc, but this last week he has stepped it up an extra notch and even been doing meals and more. Thanks soooooooooooo much honey!!

Also a massive thanks to my amazing Mum for minding Miss 4! What would I do without you Mum?

Here's how you can join in....

Crochet Cotton Dishcloth

2011-11-09T07:00:00.000+13:00

I have never, ever made a crochet dishcloth before! They are simple and easy to make, but for some reason I've never quite gotten around to making one.

After using pink cotton to make the rock sweaters (haha), I decided that making a pink cotton dishcloth would be fun... and guess what? It was!

A bunch of these would be a fabulous Christmas gift (don't worry family and friends... I'm not going to be giving you all dishcloths for Christmas this year).

If you are a newby to crochet, this pattern should help you get started at making your own dishcloth.

Or if you aren't really into making your own dishcloths, I guess it would make a great blanket for Barbie...

For more crafty makings, go here.

Joining in with Our Creative Spaces.

Bottomless Quiche

2011-11-08T07:00:00.000+13:00

I have a favourite quiche recipe (see here), but when I'm in a rush or just feel like throwing something easy together for tea, this quiche is my "go to" dish. I love how simple it is to make, and how practically anything can be thrown in (especially great for using up leftovers).

I can't remember where the recipe originates from (it's one my Mum handed down to me) but it's a goodie and easily can be doubled if needed.

Ingredients

1 medium onion, chopped

Other chopped ingredients: pepper, tomato, ham or bacon, silverbeet, corn etc

1 cup grated cheese (tasty cheese is best)

2 eggs, beaten

1 cup milk (or cream if you feel naughty)

¾ cup flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

Method

Mix all of the vegetables and wet ingredients together, then add the flour and baking powder.

Put all together in to a greased dish and cook for ¾ hour at 180°C.

That's it! So yummy.

For more delicious recipes visit here.

Joining in with Tasty Tuesdays.

♥ Weekend Bliss ♥

2011-11-07T07:00:00.000+13:00

This weekend was a full and busy one, but we enjoyed it and made the most of every moment.

Our two boys spent a night away camping in the bush with their youth group. I was slightly nervous, knowing that one of them tends to sleep walk, but they arrived home safe and sound having had a fabulous time doing tonnes of boy stuff (hunting possums, building huts to sleep in, staying up until 3 am).

Our youngest son won a prize for best baking and also made $5 carrying other peoples backpacks on the trip. Here I was worrying about how he would cope with his own backpack!

While the boys were away, us girls made the most of our time together and spent time shopping, going out on coffee dates and relaxing. Pure awesomeness I tell you.

During the weekend my Nan was rushed to hospital with heart issues, but thankfully is ok. Times like this remind me of how precious grandparents are, and how important it is to keep in touch... so go and visit your grandparents this week ok?!?!

I'm now heading into two weeks of job training - and thoroughly looking forward to it!!

I hope your weekend was fabulous too! xoxo

Joining in with Life Made Lovely Monday.

Things I'm Loving...

2011-11-04T07:00:00.000+13:00

I wholeheartedly believe that no matter what is happening in your life, there is always something that you can be thankful for... no matter how simple it is.

Here are a few of the things I am loving at the moment...

Loving my baby and her helpful heart. A family member recently asked if we would make some 'action' photos to help her daughter with her learning, and my girl was only too keen to help!

Loving this most amazing package of goodies that the lovely Jennie from Posie Patchwork sent me. So many goodies, including lots of moustache treats! Thank you so much Jennie!!

Loving these photos from last weekend... especially loving the one of Symon getting attacked by our cheeky kids...

Loving the cute animals that live at my Uncle and Auntie's house...

Loving my blogging buddies, and especially loving our skype photo with Leonie...

Loving fireworks!!

And finally, loving the provision and perfect timing of God. I have a job for next year with family friendly hours and school holidays off. Major lifestyle change, but excited and so thankful!! Yaaaay!!!

Here's how you can join in....

Crochet Covered Stones

2011-11-03T07:00:00.000+13:00

I have always loved crochet covered stones and decided to give one a go (cause as you know, everyone needs a crochet covered stone or two sitting about their home).

This free pattern was perfect - easy to follow and great having the photos of the process to help.

I used light pink cotton, and am already onto my second one... I can see Symon having a grizzle about them soon!! Hmmmm, maybe I should make him a bunch of these for his Christmas present?

The perfect sweater for your pet rock...

For more crafty makings, go here.

Joining in with Our Creative Spaces.

How to make a Boo...

2011-11-02T07:00:00.000+13:00

I love our Boo dog. She is such a sweetie! I thought I'd share with you the recipe for how to get your very own Boo...

Take one big, strong, white polar bear...

Add to that, one part fluffy seal...

Add a dash of a chubby pig...

And finally, a large helping of Falkor, the giant dragon dog off The Never Ending Story!

T
There you have it - your very own Boo dog!

Click on each photo for image source.
More Boo stories here.

Cut-Out Cookies

2011-11-01T07:00:00.000+13:00

I couldn't wait to use my Munchstaches (moustache cookie cutters) that I was given last week, so yesterday I decided to try them out on two types of biscuits (you can get your own from here).

The first was the classic Shortbread biscuit - they worked fabulously (recipe for Shortbread here), and I think the moustache imprints worked best on this type of biscuit (as you can see in the top photo).

I've also been looking for a great basic biscuit recipe just for using cookie cutters and came across this one for "Cut-Out Cookies" in one of Nigella Lawson's books. I thought I'd share it with you as it is easy to make and work with, and great for icing.

With Christmas on it's way (eeeeek!!) I'm looking forward to using this recipe for making Christmas biscuits with the children!

Cut-Out Cookie Ingredients

Cookies:

6 tablespoons soft unsalted butter
1/2 cup sugar
1 large egg
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

Icing:

2 to 3 tablespoons just-boiled water
1 cup confectioners' sugar, sifted
Food coloring, preferably pastes
Special equipment: cookie cutters

Directions

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).

Cream the butter and sugar together until pale and moving towards moussiness, then beat in the egg and vanilla. In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the dry ingredients to the butter and eggs, and mix gently but surely. If you think the finished mixture is too sticky to be rolled out, add more flour, but do so sparingly as too much will make the dough tough. Form into a fat disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and let rest in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.

Sprinkle a suitable surface with flour, place disk of dough on it, and sprinkle a little more flour on top of that. Then roll it out to a thickness of about 1/4-inch. Cut into shapes, dipping the cutter into flour as you go, and place the cookies a little apart on 2 parchment or silpat lined baking sheets.

Bake for 8 to 12 minutes; obviously it depends on the shape you're using and whether they are on the upper or lower shelf, though you can swap them around after about 5 minutes. When they're ready expect them to be tinged a pronounced gold around the edges; they'll be softish still in the middle, but set while they cool.

Remove the cookies with a flat, preferably flexible, spatula to a wire rack. When they are fully cooled, you can get on with the icing. Put a couple of tablespoons of not-quite-boiling water into a large bowl, add the sieved confectioners sugar and mix together, adding more water as you need to form a thick paste. Color,as desired. I think pastes are much better than liquid, not just because the range of colors is better but because they don't dilute the icing as they tint. Ice cooled cookies, as desired.

For more delicious recipes visit here.
Joining in with Tasty Tuesdays and Our Creative Spaces.

Recipe Source here.

♥ Weekend Bliss ♥

2011-10-31T07:00:00.000+13:00

On the weekend we celebrated my beautiful cousins 30th birthday.

Her birthday theme was "Wacky Dressup" - and being the ultra conservative family that we are (*cough cough*) we decided to go all out and dress wacky.

We had heaps of fun - Happy Birthday Kelly!!!

I hope you had a great weekend too.
p.s. don't you love Symon's man bag?

Joining in with Life Made Lovely Mondays

Things I'm Loving...

2011-10-28T07:00:00.000+13:00

I wholeheartedly believe that no matter what is happening in your life, there is always something that you can be thankful for... no matter how simple it is.

Is it that time of the week already!?! Here are a few of the things I am loving at the moment...

I'm loving Kiwi Cakes and their new premises (Grant Street, Kamo, Whangarei)!! The amazing Sandra invited me up to visit her new shop this week. She also had a wee surprise for me... some amazing moustache cookie cutters and straws!! I looooove them and can't wait to make some moustache biscuits!! I also gave her my latest amigurimi cupcake as a little 'shop warming' gift.

Seriously, if you live in Northland (NZ), you must check this place out. It is like my dream shop, filled with every type of cake tin, cupcake patties, birthday party supplies, cook books, icing colours galore and every cake/cupcake decoration supply you could ever need. She also host an array of cake/biscuit decorating classes (more details here). You can even order online if you live in another city or country! Thank you so much Sandra!!

Loving how cute my girl looks in her 'geeky glasses'...

Speaking of nerds, loving the fact that while every other 'normal' kiwi kid would be playing sport on a Saturday morning, my boys were out with their Poppa and their local rock collecting club, scouring the hillside and beaches for precious stones and rocks. A wee bit nerdy but also very cool!

Loving delicious cupcakes (from Kiwi Cake's opening night)...

Loving (and slightly not loving) what hubby has secretly done to my passport photos...

Loving the fact that Summer is on it's way (yeah, can you spot my payback below)...

Link Love: Loving this link for how to sew your own Chewbacca! Loving this funny Christmas ornament, and this cracks me up!

Here's how you can join in....

My Creative Space

2011-10-27T07:00:00.000+13:00

A strange phenomenon has occurred around these parts lately.

Ever since the giant Mario Mushroom blanket has been finished (aka "The Blanket of Torture") there has been a flurry of creative craftiness going on.

I think the burden of my blanket commitment has lifted, and hence I've gone a bit crazy.

Makings include this cute crochet cupcake made for a certain someone, and another moustache mug cozy.

I'm also attempting to make a crochet paisley, and horror of all horrors, have started on another granny square blanket with block colours!!

And guess what my other son has ordered for his birthday next year? A Space Invader granny square blanket, in grey and black!!

I'm totally keen (and maybe a wee bit crazy!).

For more crafty makings, go here.

Joining in with Our Creative Spaces.

Indian Cheesecake (Bhapa Doi)

2011-10-26T07:00:00.000+13:00

Everyone knows how much I love cheesecake! While looking for a recipe over the weekend I came across this amazingly simple Indian dessert called "Bhapa Doi". It only has 2 main ingredients in it and tastes great!

I am definitely going to make this again, and maybe experiment a bit too by adding a few other flavours... but I'm not going to dress up in my Indian inspired garb this time for my blog photo though (snigger).

Please note, you will need to allow about 8 hours to drain your yoghurt before you start making this dish.

Ingredients

1 litre natural unsweetened (preferable full fat) yoghurt

1 (395g) can condensed milk

2 tablespoons sliced almonds (I didn't have any so improvised with chocolate chips)

Method

Place a large coffee filter in a large strainer (I just used a sieve). Pour yoghurt into the filter. Place in the refrigerator and allow to drain for about 8 hours or until it is the consistency of soft cream cheese. Add the condensed milk to the strained yoghurt and mix thoroughly.

Grease a baking tin or a glass baking dish (20cm round works well). Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and bake at 180°C for about 30 minutes, or until the mixture is firm and the top is lightly browned. Take out of the oven, and sprinkle almonds evenly over the top. Cool, and serve sliced into wedges at room temperature.

Oh yeah - I loved this, and so did most of the family!

For more delicious recipes visit here.
Joining in with Tasty Tuesdays.

Original recipe link here.

♥ Weekend Bliss ♥

2011-10-24T17:20:00.000+13:00

What a weekend!

Unless you've been living in a monastery for the last couple of months, you would know that last night our little country of New Zealand became the Rugby World Cup Champions once again!!

What a game... I think most New Zealanders would have let out a collective sigh of relief when the final whistle blew! New Zealand 8 - France 7.

So our long weekend was spent in anticipation of last night's game... we had a wee All Blacks party which consisted of black themed nibbles, downed with a hearty glass of black milk (which looked slightly blue).

We also spent time with family and today we ventured out to a fabulous free fun day put on by Fonterra for their 10th birthday. It was a pity we missed out on the free sausages, yoghurt's, iceblocks and other goodies... it seemed like most of Whangarei also decided they'd like to check out the fun day as well!

Such a great weekend - proud to be a Kiwi!!!

Joining in with Life Made Lovely Monday.

Things I'm Loving...

2011-10-21T07:00:00.000+13:00

I wholeheartedly believe that no matter what is happening in your life, there is always something that you can be thankful for... no matter how simple it is.

Here are a few of the things I am loving at the moment...

This week I'm loving pet snails. Yes, you heard me right... I am loving the pet snails that the girls have in little containers at the moment. Mind you, next week I will probably be hating pet snails.

Loving the memories of our birthday celebrations this last week. There was lots of fun, laughter and spoiling going on. Loved it.

Loving the fun activities that fill up school holidays. Things like making tents out of sheets over chairs, playing Rummikub, filling up a tub of hot soapy water to let little ones wash their own dishes. Often it's the simplest of things that bring the most joy.

Loving our local library and the amazing inspiration that comes from all the fabulous books I would not be able to afford to own myself. Libraries rock!!

Loving clever friends who create amazing Mario themed gifts! My friend and blogging buddy Becky, whipped up these cute creations for my boys birthday. He loves them so much!!

Finally, I'm loving spending some alone time with my special guy, while the kids are away staying with their Nana (thanks Mum).

Here's how you can join in....

Birthday Celebrations

2011-10-20T07:00:00.000+13:00

Tonnes of fun was had yesterday, as we celebrated our boys 10th birthday.

Our day started off with our birthday tradition... all the kids (and Boo) squeezed into/onto Mum & Dad's bed. We each shared something special we loved about the him, then we prayed for him and then it was present opening time!

Just so you all know, he loves the blanket. He even said it was his favourite birthday present of them all! I must say that at that precise moment, my heart swelled with motherly pride in having a crochet appreciative son. Sigh.

He invited a few of his nearest and dearest friends (and family) around for an afternoon of feasting and fun.

We celebrated with a giant layered green birthday cake I made for afternoon tea (just like the rainbow cake but each layer a different shade of green) along with other party nibbles.

There was also an array of fun games for the boys to take part in, organised by my amazing husband (aka the "Youth Pastor Extraordinaire")... lovely things like Snot Put (shooting jellybeans from the nose), an egg and spoon obstacle course, dizzy broom spin, paper dart competitions, blowing up balloons with your nostril and other disgusting fun-filled activities that only tween-ager boys would love.

The main disgusting thing about the game time was that Boo kept eating all the snot covered jelly beans from the Snot Put game! Ewwwww.

Anyway, it was an awesome afternoon, and our boy was totally blessed, because isn't that what birthdays are all about? Celebrating the blessing of a precious life.

Life is a gift - totally worth celebrating at every chance you get.