Monday, December 17, 2012

Busy December

It's been a busy December and I can't believe Christmas is next week! I'm glad my Xmas cards and decorations are done. I've been really busy with a big project, which will take me through to next year. I can't share details yet, but by end of January, I'll be able to show all - thus the reason for fewer posts.
My advent calendar
My daughter asked for an SLR camera (those big ones) for xmas. She takes lots of photos and videos, but she's only been using her point and shoot camera. We decided to open her gift early and test it out.
Wow, what a difference this camera makes - I wish we had bought one sooner. I'll be using her camera from now on ;-). I love how you can take really close up shots.
My set of mini books
Front door decor
Used paint brushes
My daughter's xmas nails
I've also been trying to finish up my quilt. I made some good progress getting the pieces sewn together. I still have a border to put around the edge and then I can put the backing on. The last steps will be to add the batting, do some quilting and sew some fabric flowers around. I can't wait to finish it!
If you've been following my blog, you know that I've been on a hunt for vintage yard sticks. Some of you may be doing the same for your own project. Well, I wanted to share with you a great source of vintage yard sticks. On 4th street in Berkeley, there's a new store called Rejuvenation. It's a lighting store that also sells some very cool vintage items - including yard sticks! I'm happy to say, I've got enough yard sticks to make my project...now I just have to find some free time...another project to add to my to-do list.
I also baked last night for our annual cookie contest at work. I made pecan shortbread bites. Unfortunately, I didn't win - but these taste really good - give them a try.
Crust:
4 1/2 oz of cream cheese (soften)
3/4 cup butter (soften)
1 1/2 cup flour

Mix above ingredients and chill dough for 1 hour. Roll out and place in 9"x12" ungreased pan.

Filling:
1 egg
3/4 cup brown sugar
1 tbsp butter
1 tsp vanilla
dash of salt
2 cups chopped pecans

Beat above ingredients together. Spread over dough. Bake for 30 minutes at 350. Cool, remove from pan and cut into squares. I hope you try it, it's like a pecan pie in a bite.

I hope you're all having a wonderful holiday season!

5 comments:

  1. Your decor over the door is beautiful, very elegant. Rachel, I love your nails...so cute! Connie, with your busy schedule, how do you find the time to still make a quilt? I'm still working on my advent tags. Quilt is going to be beautiful. Thanks for another dessert recipe....can never have too many. This onelooks yummy!

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  2. Creative Connie,Wow... What can I say, I just love visiting your blog. As I read my smile gets bigger and bigger..lol What a magical blog,you shine bright through every posting with kindness.I have just loved everything you shared, wow fits..so talented. I am going to try your "winning" in my mind clever recipe..looks awesome yummy ..Away I go with my big smile still happening on my face. "Happy Holidays" My Darling Creative Friend. Hugs Laura.xoxx Thank you.

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  3. thanks for updating what you are doing lately. i read your blog religiously and have missed it. you are so busy. love the new camera and your pictures. didn't know you have a collection of miniature books. i have to share mine with you.

    do you have a record of rachel's painted nails. she is so talented. these are particularly precious.

    have to try the recipe...they look great.

    how do you do it all. can't wait to see the finished quilt. where do you have time to do it all?

    lck

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  4. Need! Want! Mmmmm. Copied down and added to my new cookies to try list! xo

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