A weekend of Gardening!

Well, maybe not an entire weekend since it rained on Saturday!  But we did get a lot done.  We finished mulching several flower beds and only have a few to go.  Everything is so green with the rain we've had!  I have several clematis in the yard and I one is already blooming.  My goal for the week is to get the rest of vegetable garden planted before Memorial Day weekend.

ETSY Feature ~ J Lynn Creations

My mom loves houseplants and has a large sunny back window filled with african violets, jade plants and many more.  She's always used popsicle sticks to prop up her little plants, so I was thrilled when I saw these stamped spoons from  J Lynn Creations.  Aren't they cute!?  I gave a couple to my mom for Mother's Day and she was thrilled!

Jacquie is a fellow member of the Cleveland Handmade Team and hand-stamps the most precious jewelry.  Her personalized treasures are perfect gifts for special occasions such as Mother's Day, Birthdays and Graduations.  I love the different metals and textures that Jacquie uses.  Below are a few of my favorite items from her shop. 

I encourage you to take some time to browse through Jacquie's shop!

Happy Mother's Day Mom!

Homemade Vanilla Extract

Here's a great recipe for vanilla extract.  This is one of my favorite DIY projects.  You'll never use store-bought extract after you've made this!  These make great gifts too!

I used Tahitian vanilla beans, which are readily available via the internet. I bought my bottle at World Market. Sorry for the poor quality of my picture, not sure why I couldn't get a clear picture.... my extract is low and I just haven't gotten around to getting more vodka.

vodka (any type will do)
1 vanilla bean per 1/3 cup of vodka
glass jar/bottle with lid

Split each lengthwise with sharp knife or scissors. Drop beans into the bottle and fill with vodka. That's it! Store in a cool dark place from 1 to 3 months, giving them a shake every once in a while.  The extract will continue to get darker and more aromatic over time. As you use the extract, add more vodka. The beans won't go bad - the alcohol acts as a preservative.

Sunday Evening Wind-down....

It's Sunday night and I'm pooped!  So much for a relaxing weekend!  I spent most of the time painting a spare bedroom.  I actually enjoy painting, but this is just taking longer than I'd like so I'm ready to be done!  I feel like I've been standing all day today and my feet are so sore. 

So I've poured myself a nice glass of merlot and am ready to watch Amazing Race with my hubby.  Have a good week, everyone!