tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15589874259719882452024-02-23T03:04:49.449-06:00Cowgirl By DesignA cowgirl's tips and tutorials on how to live a crafty life. I hope I can help empower you to get your craft on by sharing some of the things that inspire me in everyday life. I believe the best things in life are homemade. So if you enjoy handmade crafts and DIY projects, jewelry designing, gardening, cooking and baking, decorating, horses and all things cowgirl, you've come to the right place. Kick your shoes off and stay awhile!The Cowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16323918099188775451noreply@blogger.comBlogger45125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558987425971988245.post-1623759104175691122014-07-31T10:43:00.002-05:002014-07-31T10:43:22.996-05:00Cheesy Basil and Garlic Baked Tomatoes<div class="b-b h-1 strong" id="zlrecipe-title" itemprop="name">
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<div id="zlrecipe-prep-time">
Prep Time: <span content="PT5M" itemprop="prepTime">5 minutes</span></div>
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Cook Time: <span content="PT10M" itemprop="cookTime">10 minutes</span></div>
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Total Time: <span content="PT15M" itemprop="totalTime">15 minutes</span></div>
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<div id="zlrecipe-yield">
Yield: <span itemprop="recipeYield">3 servings</span></div>
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Serving Size: <span itemprop="servingSize">2 slices</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVBWoyMaVvxgA_C_S_KnwQb0mCOmfnzZ9B6RuIwQ0VKD7MnlR97nx48Ih87LT3Syw8TqS1ZtX9U4GGwG8jcz7w0ZMXeANQY_SJNQEPfBvSIH5GZStimYxZeciAmDeZwnetNyRJgQ3n3Yo/s1600/Cheesy+Basil+&+Garlic+Baked+Tomatoes+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVBWoyMaVvxgA_C_S_KnwQb0mCOmfnzZ9B6RuIwQ0VKD7MnlR97nx48Ih87LT3Syw8TqS1ZtX9U4GGwG8jcz7w0ZMXeANQY_SJNQEPfBvSIH5GZStimYxZeciAmDeZwnetNyRJgQ3n3Yo/s1600/Cheesy+Basil+&+Garlic+Baked+Tomatoes+2.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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A healthy and delicious appetizer or side dish that is fast and easy and even your kids will love it!</div>
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<div class="h-4 strong" id="zlrecipe-ingredients">
Ingredients:</div>
<ul id="zlrecipe-ingredients-list">
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-0" itemprop="ingredients">2 tomatoes
</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-1" itemprop="ingredients">1/4 cup fresh grated parmesan cheese
</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-2" itemprop="ingredients">1/4 cup mozzarella or provolone, grated
</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-3" itemprop="ingredients">fresh basil, finely chopped</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-4" itemprop="ingredients">Extra Virgin Olive Oil
</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-5" itemprop="ingredients">Kosher salt
</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-6" itemprop="ingredients">fresh ground pepper</li>
<li class="ingredient" id="zlrecipe-ingredient-6" itemprop="ingredients">1 tsp. garlic powder (optional) </li>
</ul>
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Instructions:</div>
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<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-0" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Preheat the oven to 450 F
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<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-1" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Cut the tomatoes into slices, approximately 1/3 to 1/2-inch thick.
</li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-2" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Place tomato slices in baking dish.
</li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-3" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Season with kosher salt and garlic powder, then top with parmesan, mozzarella or provolone, basil and pepper. Drizzle lightly with olive oil.
</li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-4" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Bake in center of oven for 10-15 minutes, or until tomatoes are tender and the cheese is melted.</li>
<li class="instruction" id="zlrecipe-instruction-4" itemprop="recipeInstructions">Let cool for a few minutes and serve. </li>
</ol>
NOTE: We also made an additional batch so my husband could put some in an aluminum pan on the grill, along with the shrimp, and we liked those tomatoes just as much, if not more, than the oven baked ones. Just put the pan directly over the flames for about 15 minutes until tomatoes are tender and the cheese is melted. <br />
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The Cowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16323918099188775451noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558987425971988245.post-69362463882149367192014-07-30T11:46:00.000-05:002014-07-30T11:47:02.818-05:00Super Simple Cinnamon Roll WafflesJust like the name says, this recipe really is super simple. I don't know about you, but simple is right up my alley! My boys normally chow down on whatever I make, but when they eat it and then exclaim that I'm the best mommy ever, I know the recipe is a keeper! Another cool thing, you can use whatever kind of dark syrup you like best.<br />
<br />
Ingredients:<br />
<br />
1 tube of Pillsbury cream cheese cinnamon rolls<br />
1/2 cup powdered sugar<br />
1/4 cup milk<br />
1/4 cup dark syrup<br />
cooking spray<br />
<br />
Preheat waffle iron. In a small bowl, whisk together Pillsbury icing, powdered sugar, milk and syrup. If you prefer it a little thicker, add a little more powdered sugar. Set aside. Spray waffle iron with cooking spray and place 2 or 3 refrigerated cinnamon rolls on waffle maker. Press lid down and let cook for 4-5 minutes. If they start to rise too much press down on lid to flatten them out. Serve with prepared glaze. Your family will love it...I repeat, L*O*V*E I*T. Oh, and be prepared for the happy dance!<br />
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PS: I don't have a picture to post yet. We ate it up so fast I didn't have time to snap a photo! (smile) Oh, well. Guess I'll have to make them again.The Cowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16323918099188775451noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558987425971988245.post-40902783680591834832012-01-17T00:43:00.000-06:002012-01-17T00:43:00.307-06:00On Fire For Handmade Featured Artisan - Zur Designs<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://zurdesigns.etsy.com/" target="_blank""><br />
<img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYCfctdciIkSoObKN2jbHOChL4CxyTMx3rcXyHcRBY6XkaToq6DeAfpTb34_um2-QNSAQyXMwqfeY5lINTY3QeuvwIwA9HhX7BqIerJI9mG8LjQ2hKqdTrzhRfcSfyXPk3mhf7UsVrSjok/s400/Zur+Designs+Collage+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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This Week's Featured Artisan is Deb Hall - Zur Designs! Deb not only is a dedicated artisan she also is dedicated to helping promote her fellow artisans She has a group on Facebook and team on Etsy called Indie Junction! You can find Zur Designs on:<br />
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<a href="http://zurdesigns.etsy.com/" target="_blank""><br />
</a><a href="http://zurdesigns.etsy.com/" target="_blank"><b>Etsy</b></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/ZurDesigns" target="_blank"><b>Facebook</b></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://dhallmba1.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><b>Blog</b></a></div>The Cowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16323918099188775451noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558987425971988245.post-11284006594874172102012-01-12T12:05:00.001-06:002012-01-12T12:05:51.211-06:00On Fire For Handmade Featured Artisan -<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://onfireforhandmade.com/SharetheLoveBloggersUniteFeaturedArtisan.html"><br />
<img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq7Yl7rmXMSSQCv8VQf4Qo4fxBiIfkoNzBp-SusvR81krp08pWR2CtAv3tVWovWl0Ah2loMiQbLwV1VejfLvOJDReuc33enmneDHi4VVyhxGQtuM1Fvv7NlDb_62BuXHdgF7jWy-lhFR4J/s400/CURIOSITY+PIQUED+COLLEGE+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<a href="http://onfireforhandmade.com/SharetheLoveBloggersUniteFeaturedArtisan.html"><br />
</a><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://onfireforhandmade.com/SharetheLoveBloggersUniteFeaturedArtisan.html"></a><br />This week's Featured Artisan is Lori Guenter - Curiosity's Piqued. Unique crocheted goodies!</b></div>
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<b>You can find Curiosity's Piqued on:</b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/curiosityspiqued?ref=top_trail" target="_blank"><b>Etsy</b></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/studio/CuriositysPiqued" target="_blank"><b>Artfire</b></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=759346389&sk=wall" target="_blank"><b>Facebook</b></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://curiosityspiqued.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Blog</a></b><br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />Please check out Lori's shop of beautifully handcrafted crochet items. Tell her the Cowgirl sent ya! Thanks!</div>
</div>The Cowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16323918099188775451noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558987425971988245.post-44308974892615136172011-12-18T19:05:00.000-06:002011-12-18T19:05:02.123-06:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaIvHNxF23bi-I9ifoJIC125CcT57rLBdPkOOnihz0dySsEoTomfQbZXMnSNewYjKcoX4rYGHMGin6HenpIB0TnQyGXBj8Fd7hyphenhyphentlwr3zGrtzYDw4JL_2AlFLzD168u4BjmppBLraMWq65/s1600/Creations+with+Heart+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400px" oda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaIvHNxF23bi-I9ifoJIC125CcT57rLBdPkOOnihz0dySsEoTomfQbZXMnSNewYjKcoX4rYGHMGin6HenpIB0TnQyGXBj8Fd7hyphenhyphentlwr3zGrtzYDw4JL_2AlFLzD168u4BjmppBLraMWq65/s400/Creations+with+Heart+Collage.jpg" width="400px" /></a></div>
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<br />
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This week's Featured Artisan is Julie - Creations with Heart. Beautiful Creations made by a beautiful lady!</div>
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Julie not only creates jewelry she features her fellow artisans on her wonderful blogs!</div>
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You can find Creations with Heart on:</div>
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</div>
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<a href="http://creationswithheart.com/" target="_blank">Webiste</a></div>
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</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://creationswithheart.etsy.com/" target="_blank">Etsy</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://creationswithheart.com/blog" target="_blank">Blog</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://creationswithheart.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Blogspot</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://handmadescene.com/" target="_blank">Handmade Scene</a></div>
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</div>
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<br /></div>The Cowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16323918099188775451noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558987425971988245.post-85324189181939610882011-12-05T12:27:00.000-06:002011-12-05T12:32:38.584-06:00On FIre For Handmade Featured Artisan - Handmade Creations By Shelly<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://shelly6262.etsy.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" dda="true" height="320px" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUXA4Tu8LZeEOSvEVgUy5RiCFEhZZVwdsctKyA4irDdIIATUa5JERkZ5lhx5ExPlX2FA9DtWjjhtzTwo1TtzH5PUkCQpRIQep6gP33_wdJir0I51FfJmC79PYt1KjbZlCM_3amol87V6Sa/s320/Shelly6262+Collage+2.jpg" width="320px" /></a></div>
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</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This weeks Featured Artisan is Shelly - Handmade Creations by Shelly.</div>
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Wondeful knit fashion accessories and more are found in her shop.</div>
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You can find Handmade Creations by Shelly on:</div>
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</div>
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<a href="http://shelly6262.etsy.com/" target="_blank">Etsy</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/HandmadeCreationsbyShelly" target="_blank">Facebook</a></div>
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<a href="http://shelly-needles.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Blog</a></div>
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</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Grab the code for your blog <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1JGSd6X9Ld6_kHX2iDG4yJLZ9udCAjLK37jayEQqYasA/edit" target="_blank">HERE</a></div>
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</div>The Cowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16323918099188775451noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558987425971988245.post-42722610381302287312011-11-30T12:22:00.000-06:002011-12-05T12:25:42.641-06:00On Fire For Handmade Featured Artisan - Vintage Tags for Days<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2wRYb5hlbzzPrVX8vQFYEGYZo_zQdokpwM1PYJvbamjvDCP_TvPt_XAi50tvFyrTE1Cw8U0aM1qrGuVmgX2EmbGAi_qD_uVY23fhknhM_a6ftPJBTCbqtPCwqes56kzjnUlPt2ccLG5wf/s1600/Vintage+Tags+for+Days+Colalge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="400px" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2wRYb5hlbzzPrVX8vQFYEGYZo_zQdokpwM1PYJvbamjvDCP_TvPt_XAi50tvFyrTE1Cw8U0aM1qrGuVmgX2EmbGAi_qD_uVY23fhknhM_a6ftPJBTCbqtPCwqes56kzjnUlPt2ccLG5wf/s400/Vintage+Tags+for+Days+Colalge.jpg" width="400px" /></a></div>
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This weeks Featured Artisan is Debbie LaRue - Vintage Tags for Days! Gorgeous tags in a vintage</div>
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style to give a unique look to your gifts! You can find Vintage Tags for Days on:</div>
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</div>
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/VintageTagsForDays?ref=top_trail">Etsy</a></div>
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<a href="http://vintagetagsfordays.blogspot.com/">Blog</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/OnFireforHandmade/#%21/pages/Vintage-Tags-For-Days-Debbie-La-Rue/241049832616742" target="_blank">Facebook</a></div>
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Debbie also has a shop called Flower and Bud Jewelry on Etsy too!</div>
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</div>The Cowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16323918099188775451noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558987425971988245.post-66055489180540639502011-11-23T14:45:00.000-06:002011-11-23T14:45:00.662-06:00Promoting Your Business During The HolidaysThere's no time of year for making sales like the
holidays. Buyers are out in full force, looking for gifts and inevitably
bringing home a few for themselves. This is a great time to capitalize
on seasonal opportunities to promote your craft business. Whether you
are a selling veteran or starting a new business,
the following tips will give you some great ideas to help boost your
holiday sales.<br />
<ol>
<li><b><span class="bold">Holiday Discounts</span></b>
<br />
Shoppers love a bargain! Send out holiday coupons or sale
notices to your customers. When presenting your display, include a
marked down basket with any slow-selling inventory you need to move. The
end of the year is a great time to clean house and entice your
customers with a deal. Free shipping, BOGO 1/2 off or even a free gift with every order might be a deciding factor your shoppers.</li>
<br /><br />
<li><b><span class="bold">Offer Free Tutorials</span></b><br />
Put together simple tutorials to offer your
customers. If possible, put some kits together to make a beautiful
presentation. Offer to teach a class at your work or church on making an item or two. Be sure to wear or bring your own creations and bring business cards.</li>
<br /><br />
<li><b><span class="bold">Send a Holiday Card to Previous Customers</span></b>
<br />
Let your customers know that you value their business and
that your product line is perfect for their holiday shopping needs. A
picture of your smiling face and/or one of your designs adds a
personal touch. Don't forget your web address, or other information on
where to buy your products.</li>
<br /><br />
<li><b><span class="bold">Wear, Use or Display Your Products</span></b>
<br />
This is always a wonderful way to sell your product.
Enlist your friends and loved ones in wearing, using or displaying your creations to boost
sales.</li>
<br /><br />
<li><b><span class="bold">Free gift-wrapping</span></b>
<br />
Keep cotton filled boxes and wrapping paper with you when
selling your products. Free gift-wrapping is a perk that holiday
shoppers love.
<br /><br /></li>
</ol>
<h3 class="sectionheader">
Where to Sell Your Products</h3>
<ol>
<li><b><span class="bold">Home Parties</span></b>
<br />
Holiday-themed parties are a great way to show
your products. Friends and family gather to shop your handcrafted lines
and socialize. A little holiday music and some eggnog are sure to put
everyone in the holiday shopping mood.
<br /></li>
<br /><br />
<li><b><span class="bold">Online</span></b>
<br />
There are many websites that offer great tools for
selling your product. Use social networking sites like Facebook or Twitter to let
your customers know about new holiday items or to advertise holiday
sales. Link to a site like ArtFire, where you can set up an online shop for
a small fee. Customers love the convenience of online shopping during
the busy holidays.</li>
<br /><br />
<li><b><span class="bold">Craft Bazaars and Other Local Events</span></b>
<br />
Talk to your local Chamber of Commerce to learn about
holiday events where you can sell your products. Many areas hold large
annual craft fairs or flea markets where you can rent a booth for a fee.
If you are willing to travel, look into surrounding areas as well. Many
churches, schools and employers hold similar events. Remember the whole "buy local" push and take advantage of it by marketing in your own town. </li>
<br /><br />
<li><b><span class="bold">Local Retail Spaces</span></b>
<br />
Many retail spaces increase their consignment inventory during the holidays. Spend some time creating a professional and eye-catching presentation.</li>
<br /><br />
<li><b><span class="bold">Trunk Shows at Workplaces</span></b>
<br />
Many full-time employees struggle to squeeze in their
holiday shopping after work. By presenting a trunk show at a workplace,
you give employees the opportunity to browse and shop on their lunch or
break times. Give employees the chance to prepare for your convenient
show by advertising in advance.</li>
</ol>
<h3 class="sectionheader">
What to Sell </h3>
<ol>
<li><b><span class="bold">Holiday Themed</span></b>
<br />
No matter what you sell, holiday-themed items are always a hit. Depending on your product, you should be able to a your own holiday twist. Use traditional holiday color schemes or create your own.<br /></li>
<br /><br />
<li><b><span class="bold">Everyday</span></b>
<br />
While adorable candy cane earrings are sure to be a hit, but don't
forget that your customers are shopping for gifts that will outlast the
holiday season as well. Items that can be used or worn all year round is an
important part of your inventory, and remember that sets make great gifts.</li>
<br /><br />
<li><b><span class="bold">Stocking Stuffers</span></b>
<br />
Inexpensive, small items are popular with shoppers looking to fill stockings. Now is the time to supplement you usual line with a few easy to make products.</li>
<br /><br />
<li><b><span class="bold">Unique and One-of-a-kind </span></b><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
Original designs or products are an easy and
beautiful way to check someone off of a gift list. That's why these unique creations
are always a popular gift item. Offer custom detailing, sizing or add-ons at no charge for a truly "unique" shopping experience.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
</li>
</ol>
Please let me know if you found this helpful or if you have any other ideas for your fellow artisans! Share your great promotional idea and you could be my next featured artisan! Good luck!<br />
<br />
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<br />The Cowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16323918099188775451noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558987425971988245.post-61757766295504552011-11-23T12:18:00.000-06:002011-12-05T12:22:16.558-06:00On Fire For Handmade Featured Artisan - Jardin de Lillian<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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</div>The Cowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16323918099188775451noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558987425971988245.post-1987852139839006362011-11-17T12:11:00.000-06:002011-12-05T12:26:54.953-06:00On FIre For Handmade Featured Artisan - Breitwerk<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This weeks Featured Artisan is Deni - Breitwerk accessories & Gifts.</div>
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</div>The Cowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16323918099188775451noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558987425971988245.post-22862890022634991662011-11-10T23:04:00.001-06:002011-12-12T22:30:51.457-06:00The Best Chocolate Cake In The Universe RecipeOk. Before I give you this recipe in all it's awesomeness, I must confess it took me a long time to decide to share it. Let me put it this way. You could schlep the batter into bowls and serve it and it would be a hit. But let me warn you. DO NOT make this cake for a small group. Your butt will need it's own zip code after eating all the leftovers. Seriously. And one more thing...you have to promise to not try to butcher my recipe to cut calories! It was meant to be enjoyed and savored in all its richness. Nuff said?!?<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>CAKE</b><br />
<br />
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter<br />
2 cups water<br />
1 cup canola oil<br />
4 cups sugar<br />
1 cup high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder<br />
4 cups all-purpose flour<br />
4 large eggs<br />
1 cup buttermilk<br />
1 tablespoon baking soda<br />
1/2 teaspoon salt<br />
1 tablespoon vanilla extract<br />
<br />
<b>WHIPPED CREAM FROSTING</b><br />
<br />
4 cups chilled heavy whipping cream<br />
1 1/4 cups powdered sugar<br />
<br />
<b>CHOCOLATE GLAZE</b><br />
<br />
<b> </b>4 ounces high-quality bittersweet chocolate,<br />
chopped into small pieces<br />
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream<br />
1/4 cup Lyle's Golden Syrup* (see note at end)<br />
2 teaspoon vanilla extract<br />
<br />
To make the cake: For a 3-layer cake, place one baking rack one-third from the bottom of the oven and the second two-thirds from the bottom. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Line the bottom of three 9-inch or two 10-inch pans with parchment paper rounds, grease with butter, and dust with flour (or spray with Baker's Joy).<br />
<br />
Combine the butter, water and canola oil in a medium saucepan set over medium heat. In a large owl, stir together the sugar, cocoa and flour. Pour the butter mixture into the sugar mixture and whisk until smooth. Whisk in the eggs, one at a time, then whisk in the buttermilk. Whisk in the baking soda, salt and vanilla all at once. Transfer the batter to the prepared pans. For a 3-layer cake, stagger the cake layers on the oven racks so that no layer is directly over another. Set two layers on one rack and the third on the other. For a 2-layer cake, stagger the layers on the middle rack with one placed more toward the front of the oven and one toward the back. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the middle of each layer comes out clean. Monitor the layers carefully for doneness, each one may be done at different times.<br />
<br />
Remove the cakes from the oven and cool on racks for about 15 minutes before inverting onto backing racks. Cool the cakes completely, at least 2 hours, before frosting.<br />
<br />
To make the frosting: Using a mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, whip the cream in a large bowl on high speed until soft peaks form. Add the powdered sugar and whip until thoroughly combined.<br />
<br />
Place one cake layer on a platter and spread some of the frosting over the top. Top with the remaining layers, thickly coating the top and sides of each with frosting. Refrigerate the cake until the whipped cream frosting has stabilized, at least 1 hour.<br />
<br />
To make the glaze: Place the chocolate in a medium bowl. Heat the cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it is very hot and just beginning to steam. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and stir until it has melted completely. Stir in the syrup and vanilla. Pour the glaze into a medium measuring cup and let cool for 10 minutes. Do not let the glaze sit longer because it will stiffen and become difficult to pour over the cur the cake. Slowly pour the glaze over the cake, ensuring that it covers the top of the cake entirely, but make sure some of the cream frosting shows through the drizzles on the sides. (If the glaze doesn't flow easily over the edge of the cake, don't be afraid to add an extra tablespoon or two of syrup.)<br />
<br />
Refrigerate the cake until the glaze is set and the whipped cream frosting is firm, at least 1 hour. Slice the cake with a long serrated knife, dipping it in a tall glass of hot water between each slice. The refrigerated cake will keep for about 2 days.<br />
<br />
Yield: 12 to 14 servings.<br />
<br />
<b>TIP:</b> Whipped cream usually begins to separate shortly after it has been beaten. The secret to this frosting - and its stability - is the powdered sugar. Powdered sugar has added cornstarch, which stabilizes the cream. This cake sat on my counter on a warm spring night for more than 20 minutes and still looked as good as it had just after icing.<br />
<br />
* Lyle's Golden Syrup, imported from Britain, is a pure cane sugar syrup with a mild camel flavor. It is widely available in grocery stores or online at<a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=pd_lpo_k2_dp_sr_sq_all?ie=UTF8&keywords=lyles%20golden%20syrup&index=blended&pf_rd_p=486539851&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-1&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=B0001590BY&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=0V3CCRB6RFJSNFD45RBV" target="_blank"> Amazon</a>. You may substitute any light corn syrup.<br />
<br />
I hope you LOVE this cake as much as I do! If you have any questions, let me know. Please come back and let me know how you like it. <br />
<br />
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<br />The Cowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16323918099188775451noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558987425971988245.post-11542502957772171162011-11-10T21:32:00.001-06:002011-11-10T22:34:20.525-06:00A Father's Explanation of Why He Had Horses for His Children<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
The following story was written by an unknown author and has been around for awhile, but I think it's as good now as it ever was. I wish I could say I grew up owning horses. Although I did ride any and every chance I got, it was never enough. Since I didn't get a horse until about a year ago, I guess you could say I'm a late-blooming cowgirl. As far as I'm concerned, it's better late than never.<br />
<br />
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<br />
My daughter turned sixteen years old today; which is a milestone for most<br />
people. Besides looking at baby photos and childhood trinkets with her, I<br />
took time to reflect on the young woman my daughter had become and the<br />
choices she would face in the future. <br />
<br />
As I looked at her I could see the athlete she was, and determined woman she<br />
would soon be. I started thinking about some of the girls we knew in our<br />
town who were already pregnant, pierced in several places, hair every color<br />
under the sun, drop outs, drug addicts and on the fast track to no-where,<br />
seeking surface identities because they had no inner self-esteem. The<br />
parents of these same girls have asked me why I "waste" the money on horses<br />
so my daughter can ride. I'm told she will grow out of it, lose interest,<br />
discover boys and all kinds of things that try to pin the current<br />
generation' s "slacker" label on my child. I don't think it will happen, I<br />
think she will love and have horses all her life. <br />
<br />
Because my daughter grew up with horses she has compassion. She knows that<br />
we must take special care of the very young and the very old. We must make<br />
sure those without voices to speak of their pain are still cared for. <br />
<br />
Because my daughter grew up with horses she learned responsibility for<br />
others than herself. She learned that regardless of the weather you must<br />
still care for those you have the stewardship of. There are no "days off"<br />
just because you don't feel like being a horse owner that day. She learned<br />
that for every hour of fun you have there are days of hard slogging work you<br />
must do first. <br />
<br />
Because my daughter grew up with horses she learned not to be afraid of<br />
getting dirty and that appearances don't matter to most of the breathing<br />
things in the world we live in. Horses do not care about designer clothes,<br />
jewelry, pretty hairdos or anything else we put on our bodies to try to<br />
impress others. What a horse cares about are your abilities to work within<br />
his natural world, he doesn't care if you're wearing $80.00 jeans while you<br />
do it. - <br />
<br />
Because my daughter grew up with horses she learned about sex and how it can<br />
both enrich and complicate lives. She learned that it only takes one time to<br />
produce a baby, and the only way to ensure babies aren't produced is not to<br />
breed. She learned how babies are planned, made, born and, sadly, sometimes<br />
die before reaching their potential. She learned how sleepless nights and<br />
trying to out-smart a crafty old broodmare could result in getting to see,<br />
as non-horse owning people rarely do, the birth of a true miracle. <br />
<br />
Because my daughter grew up with horses she understands the value of money.<br />
Every dollar can be translated into bales of hay, bags of feed or farrier<br />
visits. Purchasing non-necessities during lean times can mean the difference<br />
between feed and good care, or neglect and starvation. She has learned to<br />
judge the level of her care against the care she sees provided by others and<br />
to make sure her standards never lower, and only increase as her knowledge<br />
grows. <br />
<br />
Because my daughter grew up with horses she has learned to learn on her own.<br />
She has had teachers that cannot speak, nor write, nor communicate beyond<br />
body language and reactions. She has had to learn to "read" her surroundings<br />
for both safe and unsafe objects, to look for hazards where others might<br />
only see a pretty meadow. She has learned to judge people as she judges<br />
horses. She looks beyond appearances and trappings to see what is within. <br />
<br />
Because my daughter grew up with horses she has learned sportsmanship to a<br />
high degree. Everyone that competes fairly is a winner. Trophies and ribbons<br />
may prove someone a winner, but they do not prove someone is a horseman. She<br />
has also learned that some people will do anything to win, regard-less of<br />
who it hurts. She knows that those who will cheat in the show ring will also<br />
cheat in every other aspect of their life and are not to be trusted. <br />
<br />
Because my daughter grew up with horses she has self-esteem and an engaging<br />
personality. She can talk to anyone she meets with confidence, because she<br />
has to express herself to her horse with more than words. She knows the<br />
satisfaction of controlling and teaching a 1000 pound animal that will yield<br />
willingly to her gentle touch and ignore the more forceful and inept<br />
handling of those stronger than she is. She holds herself with poise and<br />
professionalism in the company of those far older than herself. <br />
<br />
Because my daughter grew up with horses she has learned to plan ahead. She<br />
knows that choices made today can effect what happens five years down the<br />
road. She knows that you cannot care for and protect your investments<br />
without savings to fall back on. She knows the value of land and buildings.<br />
And that caring for your vehicle can mean the difference between easy travel<br />
or being stranded on the side of the road with a four horse trailer on a hot<br />
day. <br />
<br />
When I look at what she has learned and what it will help her become, I can<br />
honestly say that I haven't "wasted" a penny on providing her with horses. I<br />
only wish that all children had the same opportunities to learn these<br />
lessons from horses before setting out on the road to adulthood.<br />
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All I can say is "Amen". Hope you have enjoyed this as much as I have! Anyone out there grow up with horses and have an interesting story? Tell us about it, we'd love to hear it!<br />
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<br />The Cowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16323918099188775451noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558987425971988245.post-57841403761989586762011-11-10T14:03:00.001-06:002011-11-10T14:27:15.325-06:00ArtFire Collection by The Dreams of Isis<style>
#widgetcont p{ padding:0; margin:0; } .title_brown, .title_brown a, .title_brown a:link, .title_brown a:active, .title_brown a:visited, .title_brown a:hover { color:#dfa754; font-weight:bold; }
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<a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=29784">Inspiration, Illumination and Awareness ...</a></div>
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<div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0pt; padding: 10px 0pt 0pt 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;">
<a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=29784"><img src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--90000--65567_product_772828816_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: medium none; margin: 0pt; padding: 0pt;" /></a></div>
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<div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0pt; padding: 10px 0pt 0pt 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;">
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<div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0pt; padding: 10px 0pt 0pt 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;">
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<a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=29784"><img alt="View This Entire Collection" height="43" src="http://static.artfire.com/modules/my_collections/images/view-collection-button.png" style="border: medium none;" title="View This Entire Collection" width="154" /></a><br /> <a class="title_charc" href="http://www.artfire.com/users/TheDreamsOfIsis" style="font-size: 11px; font-weight: normal;" title="Curated By: TheDreamsOfIsis">Curated By: TheDreamsOfIsis</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.artfire.com/"><img alt="Buy and Sell Handmade on ArtFire.com" height="24" src="http://static.artfire.com/modules/my_collections/images/artfire-logo-dark.png" style="border: medium none;" title="Buy and Sell Handmade on ArtFire.com" width="69" /></a><br /><a class="title_charc" href="http://www.artfire.com/" style="font-size: 11px; font-weight: bold;">ArtFire.com</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=gift_hub">Handmade Gifts</a><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I wanted to share this wonderful collection by a friend of mine, April Green Muelinburg, from <a href="http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/studio/TheDreamsOfIsis" target="_blank">The Dreams of Isis</a>. I'm honored that she included my Black Leather Concho Pendant. Stop by her ArtFire shop and check out her gorgeous one of a kind jewelry in </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">the Spirit of Ancient Egypt.</span></div>
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</div>The Cowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16323918099188775451noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558987425971988245.post-54898741031332612392011-11-09T14:00:00.001-06:002011-11-09T14:00:37.052-06:00On Fire For Handmade Featured Artisan - Finding Charm<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/FindingCharm?ref=em"><img border="0" height="400px" ida="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBWtVODBBa326VYe-pIJz-MU6YdsvQ0n1qti357nDMTRe445P3-GJqEAgNXVChEohB6f7_DzjSsu_UqLr0thdg5QzxvP7s1gaYCYeLy8RJHZUCcDrT_4RJypkvVXOT7_kFqm04HN8AA6z1/s400/Finding+Charm+Collage.jpg" width="400px" /></a></div>
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This week's Featured Artisan is Sarah - Finding Charm! Sarah has</div>
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beautiful creations in a wide variety of styles and colors! You can</div>
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find Finding Charm on:</div>
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<a href="http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/studio/FindingCharm">Artfire</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/FindingCharm?ref=em">Etsy</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.findingcharm.com/">Blog</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=274099525961954#%21/profile.php?id=1336869305&sk=info">Facebook</a></div>The Cowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16323918099188775451noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558987425971988245.post-39667705614195361912011-11-03T23:13:00.000-05:002011-11-03T23:13:03.718-05:00On Fire For Handmade Featured Artisan - I Knit Quilt Sew<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/iKnitQuiltSew?ref=pr_shop_more"><img border="0" height="400px" ida="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5z3jqqY5fQEur6FuKdVARsPFZA7vQLyqLtEVOH13R4X7-PQS8Vz4FGuCC10X6pcsf6ZMA-aFcZl31dmJHsPCIilGX4clzg7yZ_AQIJ1Ac1uT4zMCeou9PhLp661ZLFMmsM4uCtUESmiGx/s400/I+Knit+Qult+Sew+Collage.jpg" width="400px" /></a></div>
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This week's Featured Artisan is Sandi Levy - I Knit Quilt Sew!</div>
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Sandy has delightful creations in here shop. Something for everyone!</div>
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You can find I Knit Quilt Sew on:</div>
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/iKnitQuiltSew?ref=pr_shop_more">Etsy</a></div>
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<a href="http://handmadeartistsshop.com/shop/iKnitQuiltSew">Handmade Artists Shop</a></div>
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<a href="http://iknitquiltsew.blogspot.com/">Blog</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000896320248&sk=wall">Facebook</a></div>
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</div>The Cowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16323918099188775451noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558987425971988245.post-23679296014612100852011-10-18T09:39:00.001-05:002011-10-18T09:39:28.456-05:00ArtFire Collection "Autumn Finds" By perhapsturquoise<style>
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<a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=28881">Autumn finds with YOu Can Sell IT Guild</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=28881"><img src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--60000--30803_product_1334639952_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: medium none; margin: 0pt; padding: 0pt;" /></a></div>
<div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0pt; padding: 10px 0pt 0pt 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;">
<a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=28881"><img src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--90000--84026_product_457034159_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: medium none; margin: 0pt; padding: 0pt;" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=28881"><img src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--30000--25869_product_1769328249_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: medium none; margin: 0pt; padding: 0pt;" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=28881"><img alt="View This Entire Collection" height="43" src="http://static.artfire.com/modules/my_collections/images/view-collection-button.png" style="border: medium none;" title="View This Entire Collection" width="154" /></a><br /> <a class="title_charc" href="http://www.artfire.com/users/perhapsturquoise" style="font-size: 11px; font-weight: normal;" title="Curated By: perhapsturquoise">Curated By: perhapsturquo...</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=gift_hub">Unique Gifts</a></div>
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Thank you to perhapsturquoise for including my leather bracelet with sterling silver horse head button in this awesome collection for the You Can Sell It Guild.The Cowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16323918099188775451noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558987425971988245.post-40595973627657528322011-10-17T14:47:00.002-05:002011-10-17T14:47:40.727-05:00On Fire For Handmade Featured Artisan - Elephant Beads<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/ElephantBeads?ref=top_trail"><img border="0" height="400px" oda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWLY9mGzFE_xYCK6gB8AdN8s3dqqqBlPgFxzGoRt4cN3S9-I7_FQGRO7tTZE6lV7gqFbIARa6NLeCtvwxgGyIFuADVhwWyIz5hnvFq8PUBTfMX1i9lcL9F83rkV4BwI9TCFQSCLgIX95UR/s400/Elephant+Beads+collage.jpg" width="400px" /></a></div>
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This weeks Featured Artisan is Molly Kimball - Elephant Beads!</div>
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Truly unique and one of a kind creations to accessorize your wardrobe with!</div>
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You can find Elephant Beads on:</div>
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/ElephantBeads?ref=top_trail">Etsy</a></div>
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<br />The Cowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16323918099188775451noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558987425971988245.post-39355980377071980962011-10-14T21:52:00.001-05:002011-10-14T21:52:45.317-05:00ArtFire Collection by BippityBoppityGlue<style>
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<a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=28529"><img alt="View This Entire Collection" height="43" src="http://static.artfire.com/modules/my_collections/images/view-collection-button.png" style="border: medium none;" title="View This Entire Collection" width="154" /></a><br /> <a class="title_charc" href="http://www.artfire.com/users/BippityBoppityGlue" style="font-size: 11px; font-weight: normal;" title="Curated By: BippityBoppityGlue">Curated By: BippityBoppit...</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=gift_hub">Handmade Gifts</a></div>
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A big thank you goes out to BippityBoppityGlue for including my shell and pearl earrings in this Rustic Romance collection! I am so honored to be included among these fantastic artisans!!The Cowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16323918099188775451noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558987425971988245.post-48268763966080657512011-10-11T14:56:00.000-05:002011-10-17T14:58:34.612-05:00On Fire For Handmade Featured Artisan - Watercolors by Barbara<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/barbararosenzweig"><img border="0" height="400px" kca="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVxFVGtaiNzhbsUtTKZSfmNExfsMkWJJ7oq3oa-Quel45MWTc314lZOJWllA1RIe2b5sjJ8OmWRnfrrM3lUNzJfCfZN7E_IAGgnL5xgDd2cKe_SIIWgiNMQVqUM0BlJ2LNERzR22ZvIO1H/s400/Watercolors+by+Barbara+Collage.jpg" width="400px" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">This week's featured artisan is Barbara Rosenzweig - Watercolors by Barbara. Beautiful creations to add to your home! You can find Watercolors by Barbara on:</span></b></div>
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<a href="http://www.watercolorsbybarbara.com/">http://www.watercolorsbybarbara.com/</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/barbararosenzweig">http://www.etsy.com/shop/barbararosenzweig</a></div>
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<a href="http://barbararosenzweig.blogspot.com/">http://barbararosenzweig.blogspot.com/</a></div>
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<a href="http://barbararosenzweig.wordpress.com/">http://barbararosenzweig.wordpress.com/</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.twitter.com/barbarasart">http://www.twitter.com/barbarasart</a> </div>
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<a href="http://www.facebook.com/WatercolorsByBarbara?v=wall&ref=pdem">http://www.facebook.com/WatercolorsByBarbara?v=wall&ref=pdem</a> </div>
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</div>The Cowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16323918099188775451noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558987425971988245.post-20288151272168773872011-10-05T21:08:00.001-05:002011-10-05T21:08:55.678-05:00"Pearl Drops" ArtFire Collection<style>
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.title_charc, .title_charc a, .title_charc a:link, .title_charc a:active, .title_charc a:visited, .title_charc a:hover { color:#333333; font-weight:bold; }
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Curated by </span><a href="http://www.artfire.com/users/giftsEclectic" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">giftsEclectic</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></span></span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: large;">Thank you giftsEclectic for including my Gemstone, Copper Heart and Leather Artisan Necklace in this beautiful collection called "Pearl Drops".</span></div>
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The Cowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16323918099188775451noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558987425971988245.post-13570164871088685962011-09-30T14:25:00.002-05:002012-06-14T16:40:24.227-05:00Homemade Wild Mustang Grape Jelly<br />
I love this time of year. The kids are back in school and that means I
have more time for crafting. Back to school also means Fall is almost
here, then Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas, OH MY! But that's another story.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZKgHgrlhXNTDcuRKK2NCA2S7d0HphUVSqK2UuKdFCK_hYlIuQswlfwi61VxOSzTgKIpXY7nBhBthpBG9qJEaQlhP4Z6qoM7sveRXCgKpadRKo_Z8iPVnTjzvGbzwWrmSJwGNCZJVGamk/s1600/Ripe+Mustang+Grapes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZKgHgrlhXNTDcuRKK2NCA2S7d0HphUVSqK2UuKdFCK_hYlIuQswlfwi61VxOSzTgKIpXY7nBhBthpBG9qJEaQlhP4Z6qoM7sveRXCgKpadRKo_Z8iPVnTjzvGbzwWrmSJwGNCZJVGamk/s200/Ripe+Mustang+Grapes.jpg" width="200" /></a>Every year, about August, I see our grapevines full of plump grapes growing
wild in our Live Oak trees all over our Texas ranch. This year they were even more bountiful than
usual. And I thought to myself, 'You know, you really need to make some homemade grape jelly'. Ok, so I've never made homemade jelly before, but I thought, hey,
why not? My boys LOVE grape jelly, it's so cheap to make and, along with a loaf of homemade bread, would make and awesome gift. Just think of the teachers, neighbors, friends, family and co-workers who would enjoy getting a jar of homemade jelly. (Made with love, of course.) So I borrowed my mother-in-law's canning colander and and got busy. <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdmozzH9YCU9mc-lRVhLEaJPPngM1XEVn5XHu3NLsVu9AdwHvBSmay2X6oVPWmY9vvDmLTsBe029-3OsYbdsA6RP80VCXBkm1YFFOy_MwUqkq6BlA5YJc9yOO6UMBWhbLyJ77Jcr5wiZg/s1600/2010-T-Ball%252C+wild+grapes%252C+Colin+K-+grad.+%2526+6th+b-day%252C+veggies+084.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdmozzH9YCU9mc-lRVhLEaJPPngM1XEVn5XHu3NLsVu9AdwHvBSmay2X6oVPWmY9vvDmLTsBe029-3OsYbdsA6RP80VCXBkm1YFFOy_MwUqkq6BlA5YJc9yOO6UMBWhbLyJ77Jcr5wiZg/s200/2010-T-Ball%252C+wild+grapes%252C+Colin+K-+grad.+%2526+6th+b-day%252C+veggies+084.JPG" width="200" /></a> <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZZi3-1CfdGNIhnEellw65tCUTGPWJPGno3uPk39GDpqP46NuTgGrI2AD3NqMR7wajyWcvSdq95tunWelH0-xF_woX8WyeXh_kv7SdmvysIQXMcmQARPRLewTz2wU-1bn6aIAJVRpxKBg/s1600/2010-T-Ball%252C+wild+grapes%252C+Colin+K-+grad.+%2526+6th+b-day%252C+veggies+094.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZZi3-1CfdGNIhnEellw65tCUTGPWJPGno3uPk39GDpqP46NuTgGrI2AD3NqMR7wajyWcvSdq95tunWelH0-xF_woX8WyeXh_kv7SdmvysIQXMcmQARPRLewTz2wU-1bn6aIAJVRpxKBg/s200/2010-T-Ball%252C+wild+grapes%252C+Colin+K-+grad.+%2526+6th+b-day%252C+veggies+094.JPG" title="" width="150" /></a>Picking the grapes was actually fun since the whole family pitched in. My
husband got in the bucket of our tractor and I raised him up to get the ones up
high while my 2 sons and I
picked the lower grapes. Even my husband's mother and grandmother helped out. By the way my husband's grandmother is 90 and
still gets around pretty good. I really wish I would have remembered to wear some gloves since I get a little itchy picking wild grapes. Oh well, next time I will remember! Now with a couple of buckets of grapes, I was ready to de-stem, boil and strain them babies.<br />
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Now in case some of you are terrified of making your own homemade jelly, like I was, I'm here to tell ya' it's actually pretty easy. I won't say it's not messy when you squeeze the juice from wild grapes. They really have a lot of seeds! If they weren't growing all around our house, I would have bought grape juice to make it. Hey, free is GOOD!<br />
<br />
I learned later that we had picked many more grapes than I needed. I ended up with so much grape juice that I made 3 big batches that filled 3 cases of large mason jars. Needless to say, my family, friends and teachers all got some homemade wild mustang grape jelly. I also learned that wild grapes have large seeds that make it hard to strain in the colander and get as much juice as possible.<br />
<br />
The true taste test came from my two boys. On two separate occasions
I made them toast and jelly and peanut butter and jelly with honey
sandwiches. (Apparently, a childhood favorite of my husband's.) They loved it and always ask for "Mommy's jelly" now.<br />
<br />
If you don't have wild grapes, just get some from the
store when they're on sale or use grape juice concentrate and go for it! Red or purple work the best at white or green turn out too bland. You might want to cut down
the sugar a little if you don't want it very sweet with the store bought grapes. Mustang grapes are a little bitter and need the sugar. Enjoy!<br />
<br />
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<br />
<b>TO MAKE JELLY:</b><br />
<br />
<span class="bodytext">For one batch of jelly, use about 3 quarts of
grapes and 3 cups of water. Do not use too much water or you will ruin
the flavor. Place in pot and bring to boil until skins are tender.
Remove from burner and put through fruit juice smasher and strainer. When
cool enough, place into refrigerator until next morning. Strain through 2
thicknesses of cheesecloth if you want your jelly to be clear. Mustang grapes can be a little bitter, so you can add a little extra sugar if you want it sweeter. Your juice is now ready for jelly making! <br />
</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span class="bodytext"> </span>5 Cups grape juice </li>
</ul>
<span class="bodytext"></span><ul>
<li><span class="bodytext">1 box powdered no sugar needed pectin </span></li>
</ul>
<span class="bodytext">
</span><br />
<ul>
<li>5 Cups sugar</li>
</ul>
<span class="bodytext">Measure juice into a large pot about 8-10 quart size. Mix pectin with
juice and bring quickly to a hard, rolling boil, stirring occasionally.
Add sugar all at once. Stir well until sugar dissolves and bring to a full
rolling boil (a boil that cannot be stirred down). Boil hard for 1
minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat; skim off foam with a
metal spoon or ladel and discard. Pour at once into hot, sterilized jelly jars leaving 1/4 inch space from top of jar rim. Wipe jar edge with a damp towel and seal with new hot lids in a caner or hot water bath for 5 minutes or, like I do, just let the heat from the jelly seal the jars. Remove and let cool. Check the lids for good seals.</span><br />
<br />
<span class="bodytext"></span><br />
<span class="bodytext"></span><br />
<span class="bodytext"></span><br />
<span class="bodytext">Do not double recipe when canning jelly. It is always better to do separate batches. Good luck!<br />
</span><br />
<span class="bodytext"><br />
Makes about 8 pints.</span><br />
__________________________________________________________________________<br />
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<br />The Cowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16323918099188775451noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558987425971988245.post-41607110305933536922011-09-30T11:13:00.001-05:002011-09-30T11:27:13.752-05:00Jewelry Making Basics - Pickle<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6xUWIr6FNLvLACW_Lw1pdS4-E2fqZKvW8wmT9JuKGOIuouyT0ouBsa89dmhaXt1NtigXU5F-Z6spzR6QwVc0KYrcRlNYyNBicFwwKid51MuQsYss9_5PWAjJhPqAzqaN7Dtwk7ORYndY/s1600/jewelry%252C+ph+minus+015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><span style="font-size: small;">If you work with metal, especially precious metal, in your jewelry then you
probably use or have at least heard about pickle. This acidic solution
is available from most jewelry supply stores or you can make your own at
home. Pickle is used to clean flux residue and oxidation off of your
metal. If you want a slight antique finish you will want to use another
method like a polishing cloth that will only remove surface oxidation.
<br />
<br />
I use a powdery crystal-like product called PH Minus that is normally used in pools to lower
the ph levels. I had read about using PH Minus, but the article writer
hadn't actually tried it. Since I had a giant tub on hand for our pool, I
thought I'd give it a try. It worked great!<br />
<br />
There's no exact ratio, just mix a small amount with water. I store my
pickle in a small crock pot. This pickle will work cold, but it works
faster when warm. Also keep a lid on it so it won't evaporate or get
anything in it and keep out of children's reach.<span id="goog_291909697"></span><span id="goog_291909698"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><br />
When you have some oxidized metal, just drop it in and wait until all the oxidation is gone, then remove with copper tongs.</span><span style="font-size: small;"> If you use anything steel to fish out your metal, everything will get copper plated.</span><span style="font-size: small;">
If your metal it hot from torching or soldering, make sure the item has
cooled before placing it in the pickle so as not to burn or contaminate
it. The amount of time depends on how strong your pickle is, the
temperature of your pickle and how much oxidation there is on your
item. Be careful not to inhale or get any on your skin or in your
eyes. It might be a milder version of commercial pickle, but it's still
an acid, so take precautions. I always wear eye protection and
gloves. After I remove my items from the pickle, I place them on clean
paper towels and then rinse them in cold water. You might need to
polish your items with a polishing cloth and shine it up.<br />
<br />
Well, there you have it. I hope you have found this tutorial helpful. Please leave a comment if you liked it or come back and let me know how it's working for you!</span><br />
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The Cowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16323918099188775451noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558987425971988245.post-38236027737777666782011-09-25T14:33:00.001-05:002011-09-25T21:51:39.601-05:00Blue Highways - Bloggers Unite Featured Artisan<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The Cowgirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16323918099188775451noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558987425971988245.post-23425217068640193912011-09-11T21:46:00.000-05:002011-09-25T21:47:18.220-05:00Moss and Mist Featured Artisan Share the Love.. Blogger's Unite<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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