Every once in a while most of us need a little pep talk. We need some dynamic inspiration to remind ourselves that we are awesomely made and good enough just the way we are. Some of us need this more than others, myself included.
I have found that while there are people in my life who boost my spirits, I must also be able to do this for myself. Because at the end of the day, if you don’t recognize your own gifts and talents, it honestly won’t matter much what anyone else thinks. And besides, if you know you rock, then you’re less likely to be bothered by others’ opinions. (Just like this girl.)
While I’ve created some empowering playlists in the past (here and here), today I wanted to share a playlist with a focus on self love. Whenever you’re feeling down, unloved, or unappreciated, or you just need a swift kick in the pants to get yourself moving again, these are the tunes for you.
You can use the playlist above when you need a little boost or you can listen directly on Spotify by clicking here.
As always, feel free to subscribe to my profile (or any of my playlists) for easy access to my favorites.
I’d love to know what song(s) you listen to when you need a reminder of how magnificent you are. Let me know in the comments below.
Every once in a while most of us need a little pep talk. We need some dynamic inspiration to remind ourselves that we are awesomely made and good enough just the way we are. Some of us need this more than others, myself included. I have found that while there are people in my life […]
Just like that, we’re halfway though July. Time sure does fly.
I hope you don’t mind my relaxed summer posting. I don’t know about you, but the internet (especially social media) has been awful lately. I’ve been doing everything I can to get away from it, which given that my job is web-based, might not be the smartest move. While I’m away, however, I’m attempting to soak in as much of this beautiful summer as possible. Thanks for bearing with me. I promise to get back to a more regular posting schedule one of these days.
A couple weeks ago my family and I scooted off to Cedar Point in Sandusky, Ohio. In case you’ve never heard of it, Cedar Point claims to be the “roller coaster capital of the world.” I’m beginning to think there may be some truth to the tagline. My family and I have been going there since I was a kid. Just when we think they are out of room or can’t top what’s already there, they come out with a coaster that’s higher, longer, and faster.
If you’ve never been there, and have the opportunity to go, please do – especially if you love roller coasters as much as I do. Cedar Point is truly an awesome place. We were there on a Tuesday and the lines for most of the rides were super quick. I guess Tuesday is the day to go.
Beyond that, I’ve been busy with my family – celebrating Independence day, being together for our 58th annual family reunion, kayaking, and generally just attempting to take in every bit of the summer heat and sun! It’s been an incredible summer up here in Central PA, so I’m immensely grateful for that.
However, despite my best efforts, this year is off to a bit of a rough start. I feel a bit like this girl. Anyone else know the feeling? I’ve sort of been holding out for something magical to come along, but I’m finding that if you want change or need a new direction, you’ve got to make it happen yourself. And even though I know this all too well, I just keep chugging along the same track.
In an attempt to turn the track or at least change the speed I’m moving, I randomly decided to book a little getaway for myself. With my birthday just around the corner and half of the year gone, I figured it was time for a little reset. I’ll be sharing more on that soon. You’re welcome to follow along on Instagram or Snapchat (inspiredbycharm) for a little behind-the-scenes look at my adventure.
Other than that, there’s not much new around here. I certainly hope this year and this summer are treating you and yours well. Despite my digital downtime, here are a few of the things I’m loving from around the web.
Gwen of the Makerista has finished her kitchen makeover and it’s incredible.
I just picked up this book and am excited to dive into it.
Has anyone seen the new Ghostbusters? I can’t wait! I’m hoping to check it out later this week.
I’m still writing and creating guides for my friends at eBay. If you’re looking for more tips and inspiration, you can find them all here.
Friend and fellow blogger, Julie Blanner, bought a lake house! It’s going to be fun to follow her progress on it.
Speaking of fellow bloggers, be sure to check out Monica’s (of East Coast Creative) new series with Lowe’s: The Weekender. I’m loving it.
I’ve also been enjoying the new season of Difficult People on Hulu. What are you watching this summer?
That’s it for now. Have a fantastic week, my friends!
Just like that, we’re halfway though July. Time sure does fly. I hope you don’t mind my relaxed summer posting. I don’t know about you, but the internet (especially social media) has been awful lately. I’ve been doing everything I can to get away from it, which given that my job is web-based, might not […]
If you’ve been following IBC for a while (or have seen my Home Tours), there are probably times you’ve questioned my design choices (e.g., that gold unicorn over my bed). Don’t apologize, I’ve questioned some of my decisions, too. However, there is a method to my madness. That’s why today I wanted to explain what’s behind some of my styling and remind you to keep things quirky.
Many times decorating your space can become a bit fussy and stressful. Even though styling is part of what I do for a living, sometimes I second guess myself. I think I find the process even more demanding because I have to put my designs out there for the world to see. Even though years of experience helps, I do not call myself an expert when it comes to decorating. I just do what I like and hope for the best.
That’s why, whenever possible, I incorporate quirky or odd details. Accessories like my moose named Kevin, my large brass cat, and the clay cacti I DIYed give my rooms a little life and personality – and they make me smile. (I should also tell you that I’ve had these particular accessories for some time now, and they are still among my favorites.)
I’m not saying you should go out and buy a brass unicorn. Do quirky the way you want to do quirky. Whether it’s pairing polka dot with plaid on your couch, using neon pink accessories in your bathroom, or mixing metals in your kitchen, do something that will make your heart sing.
In it I share several ideas (right out of my own home) for incorporating a few unexpected touches into a space. It’s like a beginner’s guide to quirk-ifying.
Hopefully, it will provide some insight into what I talked about above, while also giving you a few ideas for styling your own place. However, before you go, let me know in the comments below what your favorite unique element is or what quirky styling idea you’ve incorporated into your home.
As always, happy decorating!
If you’ve been following IBC for a while (or have seen my Home Tours), there are probably times you’ve questioned my design choices (e.g., that gold unicorn over my bed). Don’t apologize, I’ve questioned some of my decisions, too. However, there is a method to my madness. That’s why today I wanted to explain what’s […]
Today is all about bees and blueberries. I know it might be an unusual combination, but I hope to shed some light on this pairing. I also want to teach you how to make an equally odd (yet insanely delicious) dessert called Wild Blueberry Grunt. We’re #LiveFromTheHive!
Back in early June, the lovely folks at Wyman’s of Maine invited me and several other bloggers to attend the first-ever Honey Bee Summit on Prince Edward Island in Canada. Why PEI? Well, Wyman’s has thousands of acres of wild blueberries growing on PEI and in New Brunswick, Canada.
Wyman’s specifically brought us to their wild blueberry fields this time of year because things are buzzing. Literally. This is where the bees come in. Honey bees are critical to the growth of the wild blueberries. In fact, honey bees are responsible for pollinating one-third of the nation’s produce. Crazy, right? What this means is that if there are no bees, there are no berries.
These bees are so critical to the wild blueberries that Wyman’s has its own professional beekeeper on site who manages and cares for hives of bees. In addition to these hives and native bee populations, Wyman’s also brings in a mixture of bumblebees and honey bees to their fields to ensure all of the blossoms are pollinated to produce as many berries as possible.
While I knew that bees are important, I didn’t fully realize just how important they are until visiting the fields.
As part of the Wyman’s Honey Bee Summit, my fellow bloggers and I dressed up in bee suits and were given a full tour of the wild blueberry fields. We also had a chance to visit the resident bee hives to learn more about them and their important work.
Seeing and hearing the bees up close was such and wonderful and surreal experience. We even got to sample honey fresh from the hive. Talk about delicious.
Those marks in the honeycomb above are where we sampled the fresh honey. The beekeeper said the honeybees would have the comb “repaired” by the following day. Unreal!
I was also intrigued by the wild blueberry fields. While these fields have been cleared of trees, weeds, and other vegetation, the wild blueberry bushes grow naturally without humans planting them.
You also might be wondering if there is a difference between wild and “cultivated” blueberries. Yes. Wild blueberries are smaller. They taste both sweet and tart and actually have a more intense flavor.
The other great thing about Wyman’s wild blueberries is that they are always sold frozen, making them available year round. Wyman’s uses a method called Individual Quick Frozen. The berries are frozen within 24 hours of harvest which locks in the flavor. A Wyman’s blueberry thawed and served will taste as fresh as the day it was picked. Plus, frozen fruits boast the same health benefits (antioxidants, fiber, potassium, vitamin C, and folic acid) as fresh. Win-win, friends!
So, now that you know the connection between berries and bees, I thought it would be only fitting to create a delicious blueberry recipe in celebration of the bee’s hard work.
While visiting PEI, we bloggers stayed at The Inn at Bay Fortune. This place is incredible. (So wonderful that I’m hoping to put together another post just to talk about it.) If you’re ever on PEI, be sure to book a night there or at least make a reservation to dine at FireWorks. We had most of our meals at FireWorks. While picking a favorite dish is impossible, I was especially taken by the dessert we had one evening: Wild Blueberry Grunt.
Never heard of a grunt? Me either. I found out that it’s an old-fashioned, traditional dessert from Nova Scotia. Small balls of dough are spooned onto a shallow bowl of wild blueberries. Topped with a lid, the sweet dumplings are steamed to perfection. I’ve been told that as the dumplings steam, the juices work through them and they make a “grunting” noise. Hence, the name. Served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this dessert seems familiar, but its unique cooking method puts it in a category all its own.
Since it’s an older recipe, this dish is very simple to make and can probably be put together with items you already have in your fridge and pantry. No new-fangled ingredients are required.
There are a few different ways to make grunt. However, I followed the directions from FireWorks where the whole dumpling is submerged into the blueberry goodness, rather than just resting on top. Because of this, you might have a little extra blueberry juice and berries. No worries, though. The extra berries and juice make a delicious topping for ice cream or a great base for cocktails.
Okay, enough talk. Let’s get steaming.
Wild Blueberry Grunt
Serves 8
Here's what you will need:
6 cups (2 - 15-ounce bags) Wyman's of Maine Wild Blueberries
3 cups water
1 1/2 cups sugar
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
4 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cubed
1 cup buttermilk
Vanilla ice cream for serving
In a large cast iron pot, add the blueberries, water, sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon. Stir to combine. Bring to a gentle boil over medium-low heat.
In the meantime, prepare your dumpling dough but whisking together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl. Using your fingers, cut the butter into the dry mixture. Then, stir in the buttermilk until the dough just comes together.
When the blueberry mixture is at a low boil, turn the heat to low. Spoon and submerge the dough into the blueberry mixture. (Each dumpling should be about 1x2 inches, yielding about 16 dumplings.) Cover with a lid and cook over low heat until the dough is cooked. About 15 minutes.
Serve the dumplings with the blueberries and sauce spooned over top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Print
Pretty amazing, right?
Naturally, the intense sweet and tart flavors from the Wyman’s wild blueberries, give this dessert incredible flavor.
Granted it’s not the most elegant looking dessert, but I love it just the same. In fact, I probably love it even more because it looks beautifully homemade and tastes out-of-this-world.
My favorite part is that while the dumpling looks mostly blue from the outside, when you cut in, you see this gorgeous white fluffy dough.
So good. You need to give this a try.
And that, my friends, concludes today’s lesson on bees, blueberries, and grunts. I hope you learned a little something.
And remember, bees are our friends. No bees = No berries.
If you give this recipe a try, be sure to let us know what you think. Enjoy!
Wyman’s of Maine graciously covered travel expenses for this trip, however I received no additional compensation. As always, the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Today is all about bees and blueberries. I know it might be an unusual combination, but I hope to shed some light on this pairing. I also want to teach you how to make an equally odd (yet insanely delicious) dessert called Wild Blueberry Grunt. We’re #LiveFromTheHive! Back in early June, the lovely folks at […]
Based on one of my favorite classic sandwich recipes, this BLT Macaroni Salad is loaded with flavor. It’s a tasty and unique twist on classic pasta salad with a traditional flavor combination everyone will love!
BLT Macaroni Salad:
A delicious pasta-based salad is one of my favorite things to enjoy during the summer. Yes, I know that pasta isn’t going to help my waistline, but it sure is yummy. Everything in moderation, right?
Today, I’m adding another salad to the line-up: BLT Macaroni Salad.
Summer is officially here. With outdoor cookouts and parties a plenty this time of year, I’m always looking for delicious and easy dishes. I’m a big fan of classic macaroni and pasta salads, but sometimes I like to switch things up a bit. That’s why today, I’m sharing my simple recipe for BLT Macaroni Salad.
How to Make BLT Macaroni Salad:
Begin by preparing your pasta according to the package directions. Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water until cool. Drain well. Transfer the pasta to a large bowl. For your convenience, there is a full ingredient list and detailed instructions in the printable recipe card below.
Top the pasta with the halved tomatoes, bacon, and arugula.In a separate, medium-sized bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, apple cider vinegar, fresh basil, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper until well combined.
Pour the dressing over the pasta, tomatoes, bacon, arugula. Stir gently using a large spoon until the pasta is completely coated. Chill for at least one hour before serving.
I’m sure you’ve seen recipes for BLT-inspired salads online. They look so delicious don’t they? Since I love me a good BLT sandwich, I was inspired to try my hand at this type of salad. (Any excuse to eat bacon!)
Once you’ve assembled all of your ingredients, this summer salad comes together in under 30 minutes. Plate it up on some outdoor serving dishes and you’ll have a beautiful and tasty side dish that will perfectly complement any summer cookout.
With Independence Day celebrations just a week away, this recipe couldn’t come at a better time. If you’re looking for a special side for your festivities, this just might be it.
Based on one of my favorite classic sandwich recipes, this BLT Macaroni Salad is loaded with flavor. It's a tasty and unique twist on classic pasta salad with a traditional flavor combination everyone will love!
Begin by preparing your pasta according to the package directions. Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water until cool. Drain well. Transfer the pasta to a large bowl.
Top the pasta with the halved tomatoes, bacon, and arugula.In a separate, medium-sized bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, apple cider vinegar, fresh basil, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper until well combined.
Pour the dressing over the pasta, tomatoes, bacon, arugula. Stir gently using a large spoon until the pasta is completely coated. Chill for at least one hour before serving.
Made it? Share it!Tag @inspiredbycharm on Instagram and use the tag #myIBC so we can see what you're cooking in the kitchen!
Based on one of my favorite classic sandwich recipes, this BLT Macaroni Salad is loaded with flavor. It’s a tasty and unique twist on classic pasta salad with a traditional flavor combination everyone will love! BLT Macaroni Salad: A delicious pasta-based salad is one of my favorite things to enjoy during the summer. Yes, I […]
Welcome back to the party! Last week I kicked off the first-ever Come-As-You-Are-ty! In case you missed the start of my little celebration, you can check it out here. Today I’m wrapping it up with the Carnival Cosmo recipe that I promised you.
Just to recap, my Come-As-You-Are-ty was inspired by the philosophy of my friends over at Carnival Cruise Lines. They happily welcome their guests to come on their vacations exactly as they are. Inspired by that brilliance, I created a celebration with the same theme. And, since all celebrations need a cocktail, in this post I’m showing you how to make one.
The Carnival Cosmo is Carnival’s take on the classic pink cosmopolitan that many of us have come to know and love. Carnival has taken it upon themselves to change up one ingredient to make this libation a bit more light and bright. (We will get to that in a second.) In case you haven’t been on a Carnival Cruise, bars dot the entire ship. Some are fancy, others are poolside, and there’s even one around a piano. Because I enjoy the art of crafting a delicious cocktail, when I’m on board, I like to visit all of the bars to check out their specialty drinks. (If you’ve been following IBC for some time, you probably already know this since I previously shared Carnival’s Tiramisu Martini and their Spicy Chipotle Pineapple Martini – still my favorite.)
On my most recent cruise, a couple whom I met at one of the bars told me about the Carnival Cosmo. I’d never tried it because I assumed it was a traditional cosmo. They explained that it’s not. Carnival uses limoncello instead of the usual triple sec (or orange liqueur). Limoncello is a lemon liqueur produced mainly in the south of Italy. Made from the zest of Femminello St. Teresa lemons, limoncello is often described as the “taste of a thousand lemons.” Basically, it’s deliciously smooth, concentrated lemonade.
As you might imagine, swapping out the orange liqueur, which can be a bit bitter, with something lighter and brighter really changes up this martini.
The Carnival Cosmo has the classic flavor you expect from a cosmo, but with a new twist. It’s what a cosmo that went on vacation would taste like. That seems about right given that it’s served on a cruise ship.
In light of all of that, I felt this was the ideal drink to serve at my Come-As-You-Are-ty. The color alone sealed the deal.
You probably won’t be surprised that the preparation is pretty simple. Just put all of the ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice and shake vigorously. Strain all that goodness into a martini glass and garnish with a lime. (And yes, shaking a martini is important, so don’t skip this step or opt for stirring.)
One other thing I like to always mention when talking about martinis is to be sure to use quality ingredients. The alcohol is the star of the show, and with only three ingredients, cheap booze will make a big difference.
Okay, I think we’re ready to get shaking!
Carnival Cosmo
makes one martini
Here's what you will need:
3 ounces of vodka
1 ounce limoncello
1 ounce cranberry juice
Wedge of lime, juiced
Lime wheel to garnish
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and add the vodka, limoncello, cranberry juice, and juice from a lime wedge. Shake vigorously.
Strain into a martini glass and garnish with a lime wheel.
Print
Classic with a twist, and just how I like it! No matter if you’re on a ship or at a party, you’ll quickly feel celebratory with one of these in hand.
I hope you enjoyed this recipe and will give it a try at home. Thank you so much for being my Come-As-You-Are-ty guests. It’s been a pleasure.
This post was created for Away We Go with Carnival, the destination for getting in the getaway state of mind. As always, all of the opinions, thoughts, and ideas in this post are my own.
This post is sponsored by Carnival Cruise Lines. Welcome back to the party! Last week I kicked off the first-ever Come-As-You-Are-ty! In case you missed the start of my little celebration, you can check it out here. Today I’m wrapping it up with the Carnival Cosmo recipe that I promised you. Just to recap, my […]
Some of my best summer memories over the past few years have happened around my dad’s pool. That’s usually where we end up on warm days when our family gets together. Be it 20+ people or as few as four, happy times abound. Surrounded by loved ones, delicious food, and cold drinks, it’s hard not to have a blissful time.
While not everyone likes all of my musical selections, I think it’s always fun to have tunes playing in the background. And since music is a very subjective thing, I select happy tunes that just float there and fill the space. These are songs that almost anyone can appreciate since there’s a sense of joy, happiness, or fun to them. Even if you don’t know the words, the songs seem familiar and are somehow equally appropriate for daytime swimming or s’mores by an evening fire. Good tunes equal happy folks.
That’s why this week’s Tuesday Tunes playlist is appropriately titled: Happy Folks.
You can use the playlist above to bring more joy to your next gathering or just listen directly on Spotify by clicking here.
As always, feel free to subscribe to my profile (or any of my playlists) for easy access to all of my favorite jams.
Let me know in the comments below what you think of this latest playlist and what some of your favorite summer chill-out tunes are.
Some of my best summer memories over the past few years have happened around my dad’s pool. That’s usually where we end up on warm days when our family gets together. Be it 20+ people or as few as four, happy times abound. Surrounded by loved ones, delicious food, and cold drinks, it’s hard not […]
Today’s post is in celebration of YOU! We’re having a Caticorn Party here on the blog, and you’re invited to come as you are. Celebrate with Cake in a Jar, a FREE Caticorn Printable and more!
Let’s party!
As you’ve probably guessed from the title of this post, it’s going to be a fun (and quirky) caticorn inspired day here on IBC.
What is a Caticorn?
To kick off the festivities, I created a Caticorn mascot. Combining my affinity for cats with the uniqueness of a unicorn, I thought a caticorn would work perfectly.
A catircon is a mystical animal that is half cat, half unicorn. It has the head of a cat with a unicorn horn and the body of a cat with a unicorn tail.
Plus, if there was any “animal” that could teach us to be ourselves, a caticorn would certainly be it.
And this is where the inspiration for the rest of the party began. Is this caticorn not the best thing you’ve ever seen?
First, we’re going to need a treat. Of course, it’s going to be a sweet. And yes, it’s going to fit with our caticorn theme.
Caticorn Inspired Dessert (Cake-in-a-Jar):
I decided to make these cakes for the party for several reasons. (You can get the full recipe and more details here.) First, they’re something different and unexpected. Second, I thought I could have fun by varying the color between the layers of cake.
Serving it in a clear glass mason jar would showcase the layered colors inside. Finally, I had this crazy idea of gluing miniature cats to the lids to make sure this party stuck to it’s quirky theme. There’s a method to my madness.
I started by prepping the jars.
You will need:
mason jars with lids (I’m using the half-pint size.)
super glue (Gel works best.)
tiny cat figures
non-toxic paint (spray or craft).
Begin by removing the ring and lid from your mason jar. Using a small amount of gel-based super glue, attach the cat figure to the center of the lid.
Once the glue sets, paint the ring and the lid the color of your choice. (Even though the paint probably won’t come in contact with the cake, I recommend using a non-toxic paint.) Allow the paint to dry overnight.
Now tell me, are these not the cutest (albeit slightly weird) things you’ve ever seen? I couldn’t think of a more appropriate treat for this type of celebration.
These will certainly be an unforgettable dessert for your guests. I also love that since these are packaged up so nicely, your guests can take their dessert or the empty jar home as a little memento of the party.
Every party needs a fun favor.
Okay, just a few more things and we’ll be ready to celebrate.
Enjoying this celebration? Check out more of my party ideas:
When planning any party, I always recommend first selecting your color scheme. If there’s one thing that can unify party decor, it’s color.
I like to stick to 2 or 3 colors. With this party, I broke that rule and went for a rainbow of pastels. It seemed appropriate.
With my color scheme in mind, I picked up party hats, party horns, and lollipops. I also shopped my own house for cake stands and napkins.
Free Caticorn Printable Download:
My caticorn also made an appearance as a fun graphic element. And as a special treat to my lovely IBC readers, I’ve created a free 5×7″ art printable. I’m hoping this little guy will be a fun reminder to be exactly who you are. You can download my caticorn here.
With its signature pink color, it’s the perfect choice for this celebration.
If you’d like the recipe for this Carnival Cosmo, you can grab it here. It has a secret ingredient that makes it really special!
And with that, our Caticorn Party is complete! Cheers!
Today’s post is in celebration of YOU! We’re having a Caticorn Party here on the blog, and you’re invited to come as you are. Celebrate with Cake in a Jar, a FREE Caticorn Printable and more! Let’s party! As you’ve probably guessed from the title of this post, it’s going to be a fun (and […]
It was great fun to share my Summer Home Tour with you last week. Thank you again for the positive feedback here on IBC and on Instagram. I had so many pictures from the tour, that I’m still posting a few now and then on social media.
Today, I’m working with Lowe’s and their new allen + roth Mix And Match Lamps Collection. (Remember when I worked with Lowe’s last fall to redesign a room for a lucky IBC reader?) IBC and Lowe’s have been buddies for a while now, so I was excited when they asked me to style some of their new lamps in my home. As much as I love my home the way it is, it’s always a treat to play around with new and different elements.
In the allen + roth Mix-And-Match Lamp Collection, there are 39 options for lamp bases and 39 options for shades. If you do the math, you know that’s 552 unique combinations. Pretty incredible selection, right?
You can see the entire collection here. Obviously, with so many choices, there are a range of styles. What’s also nice is that all of the bases and shades are labeled with a small, medium, large, or x-large tag. This allows you to easily match the right-size shade with the right-size base, taking some of the guesswork out of the shopping process.
Love that. (However, as you will see, I broke the “rules” with one of my combinations.) Anyway, after popping into Lowe’s to choose a few base and shade combinations to try in my own home, I’m here to show you what I came up with.
I liked these for a couple reasons. First, the luster on the base of the lamps added a nice sparkle to the room. Also, because I already have a lot of gold in my decor, they blended seamlessly into my space.
The other thing that drew me to these is the almost-clear glass base. While I do appreciate a heavier looking lamp at times, there’s something about a glass-based lamp that creates a light, airy feeling.
I also tried them on the dresser in my closet. Here, you can really see the luster on the base. They just sparkled in the room.
Another base from the collection that I really like is the White Lamp Base. Again, I tried out a pair of these in my living room. I topped them with this tweed-like Gray Fabric Shade (currently unavailable online).
This was easily one of my favorite combinations. The traditional white base worked beautifully with my molding, while the shade added texture and coordinated with the color of my couch.
I also tried this combination up in my closet. For the reasons these lamps worked in my living room, they also look great in that space.
And if you think this lamp looks a little familiar, you’re right. I shared the below image in my Summer Home Tour! I used the same base with this Blue Fabric Drum Lamp Shade. This shade added more color to the space and created a nice contrast to the white base.
This is one of the medium-size pairings. It works well in a bedroom since it doesn’t take up much room on a nightstand. I definitely liked the combination of gray and off-white in my guest room.
One of my favorites from the Mix-and-Match Collection is this Wood Lamp Base. This base is considered a medium, however I paired it with a small Tan Linen Fabric Drum Lamp Shade. I wanted to create a buffet-style lamp. I was able to use a smaller shade since this lamp base has a slim and tall profile.
Perched on my mantel, they are fabulous.
In fact, these might be my favorite addition. I’ve always wanted to try a pair of lamps on my mantel, and the wood grain in the base works nicely with the wood top of my coffee table.
Given that this space is adjacent to my living room, the two sets of lamps look good together without being identical.
As you might imagine, I could go on and on with my pairings. I actually wanted to try out all of the combinations in my home, but that would have been excessive. Of course, that won’t stop me from sharing a few more of my favorite pairings here.
This post is sponsored by Lowe’s. The thoughts, opinions, and ideas are my own. Thanks for supporting the brands that make IBC possible.
This post is sponsored by Lowe’s. It was great fun to share my Summer Home Tour with you last week. Thank you again for the positive feedback here on IBC and on Instagram. I had so many pictures from the tour, that I’m still posting a few now and then on social media. Today, I’m […]
Fun (but possibly weird) fact: I enjoy setting up tablescapes. Even though I don’t normally do them that often, I’ve put two together (here and here) in the past week. Now I’m afraid I won’t be able to stop!
As I mentioned in my Summer Home Tour this week, in this latest post I’m sharing five tips for creating a tablescape in the rustic charm style. I also talk a little about what this style means to me since it has become so popular in recent years.
This was a super fun post to create. I was able to use new things I found at HomeGoods (these mint green ceramic berry baskets and galvanized plate chargers) as well as some old favorites, including my gold flatware and woven table runner.
While it might not be “traditional” rustic charm, it was pure pleasure to put an IBC twist on this decorating style. Head on over to Design Happy by clicking here for all of the details plus more pictures of my Rustic Charm Tablescape.
Fun (but possibly weird) fact: I enjoy setting up tablescapes. Even though I don’t normally do them that often, I’ve put two together (here and here) in the past week. Now I’m afraid I won’t be able to stop! Today I’m popping in just to let you know that my post on how to create […]
What’s Sangria Verde? Verde is the Spanish word for green, so in essence, it’s just green sangria. When made with green fruits and herbs, this sangria lives up to its name in both looks and flavor.
Unlike the more traditional red sangria, this variety is light, bright, and crisp. It’s a simple and delightful libation that screams summertime.
What’s especially interesting about this sangria is that it includes both mint and basil. As you might imagine, these herbs add a fresh and unique layer of flavor to this cocktail. (Plus, it let’s me put that DIY Vertical Herb Garden I made to good use.)
And get ready for an even bigger shocker: I used St. Germain in this sangria. I joke here because those of you who are loyal IBC followers know that I’ll use any excuse to add St. Germain to my drink recipes. However, the warm, bright, and almost citrusy floral notes of the liqueur are just right. Traditional sangria uses brandy or cognac, and neither would have worked. St. Germain to the rescue!
St. Germain adds a touch of sweetness (another important part of sangria), eliminating the need for extra sweeteners. It’s a win-win.
Also, regarding the wine, I recommend something pretty light. Your favorite Sauvignon Blanc (I like anything from New Zealand.) or an unoaked Chardonnay are excellent choices.
Okay, I think we have everything covered. Let’s whip up a batch. I’m thirsty.
Sangria Verde
Make 4-6 servings
Here's what you will need:
2 limes, thinly sliced
1 cup green seedless grapes - some whole, some halved
1 cup honeydew melon, chopped
1 green apple, seeded and chopped
2 or 3 sprigs fresh basil
2 or 3 sprigs fresh mint
1 bottle (750 ml) of white wine (Sauvignon Blanc or unoaked Chardonnay is recommended.)
3/4 cup St. Germain liqueur
2 cups sparkling water, chilled
Mint sprigs for garnish
In a large pitcher, combine the fruit. Then, pour in the wine and St. Germain. Stir and chill at least one hour. Just before serving, top with sparkling water and stir.
Serve in a glass and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint, if desired.
Print
Pretty simple. See why this Sangria Verde is such a winner? A classic recipe gets a light and bright refresh for summer.
I think you’re going to love it.
You may have noticed that I have a deep love for sangria. It is my go-to cocktail anytime of the year. I like it so much that I’ve created a number of variations here on IBC. If you liked this recipe, be sure to check out a few more of the variations below.
Yesterday on IBC we talked about dining al fresco, and I shared tips and tricks for easy and beautiful ways to entertain outdoors. You may have noticed a refreshing-looking beverage pop up in a few of the photos in that post. Any guesses what it is? (Don’t look at the title of this post or […]
Now that the warmer weather is finally here, I will use any excuse to get outside. Whether I’m by myself or with friends and family, if there’s a reason to power down my electronics and enjoy the sunshine, I’m in. This rule also applies to dining. I love eating outside. (Or, as the fancy folks call it, “dining al fresco.”) It makes no difference if I’m at a favorite restaurant or in my own backyard, food and drink just seem to taste better outside.
Today, I thought it’d be fun to share a few ideas for effortless, beautiful ways to dine al fresco. While there are many options for outdoor dining, these are a few of my favorite tips to get you started.
1. Start with Color
As you’ve heard me say many times here on IBC, when planning a dinner or party, it’s helpful to begin with a color scheme. Once you have that, making decisions about décor and food is that much easier. A color palette will provide you with a more limited scope and give you some direction.
For this particular experience I was inspired by the new NESTLĖ Damak® chocolate bars. In case you haven’t heard of them yet, they are a creamy Turkish chocolate with savory pistachios. They come in fine (milk) chocolate and dark chocolate. (While they’re available at a few locations, I recommend picking them up at Walgreens.)
Based on the design and color of the Damak® packaging, I opted for a green, black, and gold color scheme. It worked perfectly.
2. Bring in Nature
Since dining al fresco allows you to connect with and be in nature, incorporating natural touches into your tablescape is a no brainer. I had some extra potted succulents, so I used those to decorate my table and serve as a favor for my guests (more on that soon.)
However, if you don’t have any extra succulents lying around, adding a touch of nature can be as simple as cutting a few flowers, branches, or plants from your own landscape and tucking them into mason jars. You could even use leftover fresh herbs or grab a potted flower from your porch. Keep it simple.
3. Plan for the Elements
Yes, even though dining outdoors can be a magical experience, one of the downsides is that you have no control over the weather. However, you can plan ahead and be prepared .
First, check the forecast to see if rain is predicted. If there are just a few drops of rain, using an umbrella over the table like I did, may be enough to shelter you and your guests. If lots of rain is expected, move your meal to a covered area such as a porch or garage.
Secondly, pay attention to the temperatures. If your dinner will go into the evening, consider making blankets available or plan on lighting a campfire to keep folks warm. Also remember that your umbrella can protect your guests (and your food) on extra sunny days.
4. Simple Snacks
When planning outdoor meals, keeping your food choices simple is a must. Try serving dishes that are delicious at cold or room temperature. Also, unless you’re planning to grill, choose things that you can prepare in advance so that you can enjoy the meal and your company without having to run back and forth to kitchen.
You might even purchase elements of the meal that won’t require any cooking. Simple snacks like popcorn, nuts, and grapes make a great meal starters with minimal effort. You could even get a pie or cake from your local bakery for dessert. Dress it up with fresh berries or edible flowers, and no one will care that it’s store bought. A stressed out or exhausted host is fun for no one.
Oh, and if you’re wondering about the beverage I’m serving, tune into IBC tomorrow for full details and the recipe. It’s delicious. You won’t want to miss it.
5. Something Quirky
Whether I’m decorating a room in my house or setting a table, I always like to include an unexpected element because it can instantly inject life into your table. Here, I’ve dressed up my potted succulents with this truck and camper cake topper.
As you can tell, it brings a fresh and fun element into my décor. Plus, quirky pieces like these can be great conversation starters.
Of course quirky doesn’t need to be décor. Involve your guests in the cooking process. For example, have a s’mores bar where guests can create their own personalized, tasty dessert
6. Sweet Treat
What better way to end your dining al fresco experience than with a sweet treat your guests can take home with them.
I used wood berry baskets to create favors for my guests. I filled each with a succulent, a NESTLĖ Damak® chocolate bar, and several of my IBC Summer Recipe Cards. (More details on my new summer recipe card design coming soon. Be sure to join the IBC Mailing List here for exclusive access to the free printable file which will be mailed out late next week.)
Not only are they fun things for my guests to take home with them, but they also enliven the table décor. Who doesn’t love items that do double duty?
And that’s it, my friends. I think you’re ready.
While there are many things to consider when dining al fresco, I hope you found a few of my tips helpful. Most importantly, have fun and keep it low stress.
If you’re interested in trying these new chocolate bars (I personally recommend the fine (milk chocolate), I have a sweet offer for you. Beginning on June 26, you can receive $2 off when you purchase any (2) NESTLĖ Damak® chocolate with Pistachios 2.82 oz bars. Visit Walgreens.com/Coupons to receive your coupon; then go to your local Walgreens to buy the chocolate and redeem your coupon.
For more food and entertaining inspiration, you can follow the #DiscoverDamak Pinterest board and join me for the #DiscoverDamak Twitter Party on June 23 from 8-9 pm ET. (There will be some fabulous prizes!)
Happy Summer Entertaining!
This post is sponsored by NESTLĖ Damak®. The thoughts, opinions, and ideas are my own. Thanks for supporting the brands that make IBC possible.
This post is sponsored by NESTLĖ Damak®. Now that the warmer weather is finally here, I will use any excuse to get outside. Whether I’m by myself or with friends and family, if there’s a reason to power down my electronics and enjoy the sunshine, I’m in. This rule also applies to dining. I love […]
It’s that time again. Welcome to IBC’s Summer Home Tour 2016! The last time I officially gave you a tour of my home was back in December. so I’m excited to welcome you back in for a new (and warmer) season. Needless to say, things are looking a bit different since then.
Once again, I am honored to be participating in The White Buffalo Styling Co.’s #BloggerStylinHomeTours. If this happens to be your first stop on the tour, and you’re looking for the beginning, click here. There are over 30 bloggers participating, so you don’t want to miss a thing. (Plus, Lindsay’s home is amazing, so it’s worth a visit regardless.) If you’re following along on the tour and have clicked over from Restless Arrow, welcome! I’m thrilled you stopped by! Isn’t Amber’s home lovely? I love the pops of blue.
For this summer home tour, I’ve actually managed to photograph my entire home including a few shots of my outdoors spaces. Normally, I don’t quite make it all the way around my house, but this season you’re in luck. However, that also means there will be lots of photos. Honestly, it’s probably too many, but I’m aiming for maximum impact.
Those of you who follow IBC probably know my home pretty well by now. However, for those who are new, I’ll try to mention and link as much as I can so you can catch up quickly. Also, new friends, please be sure to sign up for the IBC Mailing List. I send about two emails per week with updates about IBC, inspired finds, and other exclusive content.
Okay, I think that covers everything. Let’s get this Summer Home Tour 2016 started!
We can kick things off in my living room because that’s probably my favorite space. Things haven’t changed much since my Spring Living Room Tour.
However, I did pick up a few pillows at HomeGoods. If you need a simple way to switch up your décor for the summer, shop for pillows at HomeGoods. The selection is awesome, and the prices are excellent.
I also tucked in these colorful flowers. I splurged a bit and ordered myself these beauties from Farmgirl Flowers. I included some grocery store flowers, too. When styled right (tips on that here), they can look just as nice as the more expensive varieties.
Everyone, please say hello to Kevin. He’s my moose / office assistant.
For those of you who don’t know, my living room is connected to my home office space. My house used to be a Bed and Breakfast. The random wall (with the clipboards) and bulkhead above aren’t original to this space. They are the result of adding bathrooms to the house so each guestroom had one. So now I’m left with awkwardness. No biggie though – I’ve embraced it and made it work for me.
Next to my desk is my work table. Yes, it looks like a dining room. As I explained in my Spring Office Tour, I added this table to increase my work space. It has also been working wonderfully for my blog photography. This past May, I hosted a Cinco de Mayo party, and this table was the perfect spot for the festivities.
For overhead lighting, I found this inexpensive arc lamp from Target. I have a 7.5 watt bulb in there. Typically, I’m not a fan of overhead lighting, but the low wattage bulb gives just the right amount of light.
Now, onto the entryway. (The front door is to the left, behind the wall with the pink dresser.)
Opposite my front door, you’ll see my large barn doors. These doors would make you think there are special treasures inside. Sadly, that closet is packed full of props, projects, and a vacuum cleaner. Glamorous, right?
My dining room is just beyond that. For this home tour, I have actually set the table for you. Fancy!
Most of you know how much I like a good cocktail, so my $5 thrift store bar cart is stocked and ready to roll. Who needs a drink? I even have my DIY Horse Drink Stirrers on display.
Just off the dining room is my side porch. Last year, I spent time making this space cozy. This year I just get to enjoy it.
I also welcomed a few new friends, Mrs. Dove and her two babies. See her on the top shelf? (They have grown so much in the past few weeks, and it looks like they are almost ready to leave the nest.)
These two tealight holders from Crate and Barrel are new. Filled with tealights, they almost look like a mini wall-mounted fireplace. If you follow me on Snapcat (inspiredbycharm), you might have seen them flickering.
Back inside we can take a quick peak at my vintage kitchen. (You can see more of this space here if you wish.) Not much has changed in there except for a new bench and some cheeky artwork.
Heading upstairs, I have an interesting recent addition in my hallway. If you follow Emily Henderson, something may look familiar.
I purchased this large mirrored and woven wall hanging from a recent online sale. I saw it a few years ago on a shoot she did with Target. It was love at first sight. So, when I found out that she was selling it, I just couldn’t resist buying it.
It’s pretty large, coming in at about 8 feet high. I’m not sure if this will be its permanent spot, but I do love it here for now.
Hung next to my beach-inspired picture ledges (get that tutorial here), I think it works perfectly. (And it’s from Emily Henderson. I’m still giddy about that.)
Beyond the hall are my bedrooms. First up is my closet. One perk of living alone is that you can dedicate an entire room in your house to your closet. (Yes, I’d much rather have a partner in crime, but I’ll settle for a large closet for now.)
Next to that is my bedroom where my gold unicorn still majestically watches over me.
My home has two guest bedrooms. This space has been one of my more recent projects. While I still need a few pieces of artwork on the wall, I finally hung my blinds.
I also picked up some stools for the end of the bed.
I’ll have to give you a better update on this space in the coming weeks. It’s been a while since I’ve shared it.
My second guest bedroom remains pretty much the same with a couple accessory swaps and new wall sconces.
Wondering about the artwork? It’s from Lindsay Letters. I have several of her pieces in my home.
At this point you might be wondering about bathrooms. Yes, I have them. I actually have 3.5 of them. However, they are less than tour-worthy. We will get to those one of these days.
Now, let’s pop outside for a quick look at the deck, and then this tour will be a wrap.
in case you’re wondering about the hanging planter filled with hens and chicks, it’s a DIY. You can learn how to make it here. You can also check out my new DIY Vertical Herb Garden here. You’ll never guess what I used to make it. (Well, unless you already seen the post, they you might have a pretty good guess. Ha!)
For the deck, I hope to be doing a more in-depth tour. However, I thought a quick look around was essential for a summer home tour.
I got carried away with flowers and plants again this year after picking up these new planters at West Elm. Every year I try to cut back on what I plant. Somehow this year I’ve managed to plant more than ever.
While things are certainly taking shape, I’m looking forward to seeing how everything fills out this summer.
Speaking of filling out, my espaliered apple tree is finally loaded with apples this year. Normally I’m lucky to get a half dozen. This year there’s over two dozen baby apples. I’m sensing an apple pie in my future.
And with that, my friends, I think this Summer Home Tour 2016 is a wrap. What did you think?
I hope you found it entertaining and that you were inspired by something along the way.
That was a lot of pictures, right? With outdoor spaces becoming an extension of the home in the summer, there’s just so much to share. I couldn’t help myself.
If you’re continuing on with the Blogger Stylin’ Home Tours (which you totally should), up next is Hunted Interior. Per usual, Kristin’s home is looking fabulous. You won’t want to miss it. She’s a decorating genius who takes big and beautiful risks that really pay off. If you like my style, you will loves hers.
Oh, and for my new friends out there, Inspired by Charm (which I affectionately call IBC) is more than just home décor and DIY. Be sure to check out some of my recipes (This Ramen Noodle Salad is the bomb for summer cookouts.), my Tuesday Tunes music series, and all of the party-inspiration in my entertaining section. And I wasn’t kidding about that Mailing List. Sign up here so you don’t miss a thing.
Thank you so much for stopping by today. See you again soon!
It’s that time again. Welcome to IBC’s Summer Home Tour 2016! The last time I officially gave you a tour of my home was back in December. so I’m excited to welcome you back in for a new (and warmer) season. Needless to say, things are looking a bit different since then. Once again, I […]
Happy Tuesday! I’m back with another Tuesday Tunes. It’s a special week here on IBC. Tomorrow is my Summer Home Tour. And while home tours are kind of a stressful thing for me (and a bunch of work), I’m always happy putting them together since many of you have told me how much you enjoy them.
This week’s playlist was inspired by chilling out at home during the summer months. Tuck those worries and that stress in the back of a drawer. They aren’t welcome. Whether you’re hanging out inside on a rainy day, relaxing on the porch on a sunny Sunday afternoon, or making s’mores in the backyard on a warm summer evening, this is your new go-to playlist.
In true Inspired-by-Charm style, Summertime Chill is a blend of folk and chill vibes, with a side of pop. At least that’s how I describe it. I’m not a music expert, so apologies in advance if my Tuesday Tunes descriptions aren’t the best. Just have a listen and you’ll understand what I mean.
You can use the playlist above to get lost in my Summertime Chill playlist or listen directly on Spotify by clicking here.
As always, give this list a listen and let me know what songs you love! If you want to recommend a track or artist I might like, please let me know in the comments.
Enjoy! I’ll meet you back here tomorrow for my Summer Home Tour.
Happy Tuesday! I’m back with another Tuesday Tunes. It’s a special week here on IBC. Tomorrow is my Summer Home Tour. And while home tours are kind of a stressful thing for me (and a bunch of work), I’m always happy putting them together since many of you have told me how much you enjoy […]
Tight on space? This DIY Vertical Herb Garden is a easy way to add fresh herbs and style to any outdoor wall. Learn how with this simple tutorial!
Even though I don’t have space to plant a vegetable garden, I make it a point to plant herbs every year. I like to have fresh herbs for flavoring dishes (like my homemade herb butters or infused liquor recipes), and they look and smell so pretty.
I’ve tried various herb gardens in the past, but I was never in love with the overall display, or the garden was in a place that didn’t get enough sun. This year I decided to try something different: a DIY Vertical Herb Garden.
Pretty cute, right?
This project was actually inspired by a hanging file organizer I picked up at HomeGoods. I was walking around the store looking for inspiration, and my idea light bulb lit up when I saw this guy sitting on the shelf.
With some ingenuity, soil, and potted herbs, I quickly turned this ordinary office accessory into an unusual. space-saving herb garden. DIY Vertical Herb Garden for the win!
How to Make a Vertical Herb Garden
To make this rack a functioning and chic garden, I needed a few things:
hanging file organizer
oil-rubbed bronze spray paint
coco fiber liners
soil
assorted herbs
I didn’t love the silver finish wouldn’t for my space, so I started off by giving the rack a couple coats of oil rubbed bronze spray paint.
Once the rack was dry, I attached it to the wall using screws. Much better!
To keep the soil and plants in the pockets of the rack, I lined them with round coco liners that you’d normally use in a hanging basket. This also help to hold in water.
You can find the liners in most garden supply centers and hardware stores these days, and they are pretty inexpensive. The ones I purchased were round. They weren’t a perfect fit to start, but I gently pushed them into the pockets and spread out the fiber to fill the opening.
With the pockets lined, I added soil. Now, I was ready for herbs. Because I tend to go overboard with plants, I was able to squeeze sixteen herb plants into this rack. There are eight different herbs, and I used two of each herb. You could certainly get away with just one of each herb, but I am short on patience and want instant impact, so I went for more.
I gently tucked the herb plants into each pocket and then put in more soil where it was needed.
After a quick watering, my DIY vertical herb garden was complete!
Who would have thought that a magazine storage rack could function as a vertical herb garden? It’s like it was meant to be!
Enjoy this project? Here are a few more creative DIYs:
As I said at the beginning of this post, this kind of garden is great when outdoor space is tight. It takes up zero floor space and offers ample room for plants. Plus, it doubles as wall art, adding natural color to the area.
My new herb garden hangs on the wall between my garage doors where it should get plenty of morning sun. Plus, since it’s so tall, I was able to fill it with 16 herb plants. (I realize that’s probably excessive, but I like instant impact.)
Tight on space? This DIY Vertical Herb Garden is a easy way to add fresh herbs and style to any outdoor wall. Learn how with this simple tutorial! Even though I don’t have space to plant a vegetable garden, I make it a point to plant herbs every year. I like to have fresh herbs […]
Last week here on IBC I shared a fun stenciled coffee tray. I was gratified by the response to that post and thrilled that you liked the tray as much as I did. Today I’m back with another fun stencil-inspired project (a stenciled potting bench), plus a peek at my back porch decor and a fun giveaway. So many exciting things in one post; please try to contain yourself.
So, you’re probably wondering what all the excitement is about. Well, my friend Donna over at Funky Junk Interiors has a line of stencils called Old Sign Stencils. Today she’s launching two new designs (Potting Shed and Garden), and she’s invited a few of her blogging friends (and our fabulous readers) to join in on the fun. There are seven bloggers (linked at the bottom of this post) who have all created projects with the new stencil designs.
As you may remember from past posts and tours, this is my back porch. It’s a fairly small area that’s not especially fancy. However, it is the entrance to my house that I use on a daily basis so dressing it up for the summer is always a must
While some things stay the same, I like to switch it up a bit every year. A couple weeks ago I spotted this bench on the curb at a local antique shop and thought it would be just the right size for the space. It was. For $10, it came home with me.
Although it looked fine as it was, I decided it would be the ideal surface for me to try the new Potting Shed stencil.
My first step was to select paint colors. As I mentioned in my other stenciling post, I’m using Fusion Mineral Paint. This paint works great for these types of projects because it has a built-in primer and requires no top coat. For this project, I decided to use four colors: Picket Fence, Sterling, Upper Canada Green, and Fort York Red.
I relied on washi tape again to hold the stencil down. The stencils have center markers so positioning them on your surface is simple.
With the stencil in place, I started painting. In case you haven’t stenciled before, here are a few tips to ensure good results. First, keep your brush very dry. Add some paint to your brush, then remove most of the paint by wiping the bristles with a rag or tapping the bristles on a scrap surface. Also, apply the paint by tapping up and down rather than brushing back and forth.
If you’re using multiple colors like I am here, you can protect other areas by using a piece of tape or setting a piece of paper over certain areas of the stencil as you work.
Once all of the paint is applied, I let it rest for a couple minutes and then carefully removed the stencil to reveal my finished piece. Voila!
While the bench was perfectly okay the way it was, this detail adds a touch of color and character. And you know how much I love a little color and character.
Surrounded by aged terra cotta pots filled with flowers and my gold-hatted garden gnome Mary Kate, I’d say that my porch is looking pretty welcoming.
Oh, and if you’re wondering about the vertical planter on the wall, that was a DIY from a few years back. It’s filled with hens and chicks and hangs in the same spot all year long. (Yes, even through the winter.) Even though I lose a few of the plants each winter, about 75% of them come back to life every spring. It’s still one of my favorite projects. (You can read more about it here.)
You also might be surprised to see that my outdoor space looks a bit more “country rustic” compared to some of my interiors spaces. I know, it’s kind of weird. For some reason when it comes to outdoor spaces, my designing heart leans toward a rustic, weathered look. Why? Well, I find it comforting. I also feel that it works well with the exterior of my home and the area where I live. Plus, I’ve tried incorporating mostly modern elements, and they just look odd. In addition, in this part of the country, things don’t weather well. I just want to place items outside and enjoy them. I don’t want to worry about them getting dirty or damaged.
Of course, you will notice both modern and traditional elements on my deck and side porch. I guess eclectic may be the best way to describe IBC style because I just love it all. We’ll take a look at those spaces during my Summer Home Tour which is happening next week. Stay tuned for that.
Right now I’m loving how the stenciled detail makes my bench even better.
If you have yet to visit Old Sign Stencils or Fusion Mineral Paint, you should pop over and check out their selections. I’m sure you’ll be bursting with ideas.
Now, before you head off, be sure to visit some of my fellow stenciling bloggers. I’ve linked up everyone below and given you a glimpse of their projects. It’s fascinating to see how each person used the same tools, but created something unique and personal. I love it.
Thanks for joining me today. I hope you’re feeling a bit more inspired.
Last week here on IBC I shared a fun stenciled coffee tray. I was gratified by the response to that post and thrilled that you liked the tray as much as I did. Today I’m back with another fun stencil-inspired project (a stenciled potting bench), plus a peek at my back porch decor and a […]
Add personality to a wooden tray with a coffee-themed stencil. Nothing is better then coffee on the porch in the morning. Use this wooden tray to serve your early morning (or afternoon) brew in style!
Earlier this week I showed you how to make some fun felt travel accessories, but it’s been a while since we’ve crafted something for the home. So today we’re getting our craft on with a DIY Coffee Stenciled Wooden Tray.
I’m not sure what it is about trays, but I seem to be obsessed with them. Weird, I know. I guess I just find them handy. They are great for corralling items and serving guests when entertaining. They’re also helpful with photoshoots for IBC, and they’re usually easy to store. (I’m trying to get you obsessed too so I don’t feel so strange. Ha!)
Anywho, I was recently talking with my blogging pal Donna of Funky Junk Interiors. In case you didn’t know, about a year ago Donna introduced Old Sign Stencils. I’ve been watching and admiring her creations as she’s been stenciling up a storm. (You can see all of her designs, projects, and stencils here.)
How to Make a Stenciled Wooden Tray:
When we were chatting, Donna offered me the opportunity to try one of her stencils. Since I’m always down for a DIY challenge, I quickly accepted.
I wasn’t sure how I wanted to tackle this project until I saw this round wood tray at HomeGoods. Priced at less than $20, it was begging for a little personality.
Luckily, Donna’s coffee stencil was the perfect fit. With that, I got to work on my DIY Stenciled Coffee Tray.
For this project I used Fusion Mineral Paint. Why? That’s what Donna uses. (My decision really was as simple as that.) However, I later found out that Fusion Mineral Paint is great stuff. It has a built-in primer and no top coat is required. That alone would have sold me had I done my research in advance. Plus, it’s also self-leveling which minimizes brush strokes.
With all of my paint and supplies at the ready, I put my stencil on the tray and used washi tape to keep it in place. (Painter’s tape or spray adhesive would also work.) What’s really cool about these stencils is that they have center markers which makes positioning them on your surface super simple.
I used more washi tape to cover up those markings so I didn’t accidentally get paint into them.
Then I started painting. I used a combo of coal black and ash paint to give it depth and interest.
When using the stencil, keep your brush very dry to ensure sharp lines. Load up your brush with paint and then tap most of it off. (I used a scrap piece of wood as a paint pallet.) Apply the paint by tapping up and down rather than brushing back and forth. This will give you the best results.
Literally, within 5-10 minutes, my stenciling was complete!
I let the paint set up for a few minutes; then I carefully peeled off the stencil and let the paint dry completely.
In the meantime, I grabbed some mugs, made a pot of coffee, and plated up a few pastries. (You knew I’d have to try out this tray, right?)
Tada!
DIY Coffee Stenciled Wooden Tray
Really cute, right?
I’m so excited about this tray, especially with Memorial Day and summer just around the corner. I’m picturing early morning breakfasts on the deck. Whether I’m alone or with family and friends, I can pile this stenciled wooden tray full of goodies and enjoy a beautiful start to another day.
What’s not to love?
If you liked this tutorial, you’ll love these too:
I’m hoping to find more of these trays. Because the stencils are reusable, I’d like to DIY a few for gifts. I can already picture them packed with gourmet coffee and mugs and tied up with ribbon.
Thank you again to Donna over at Funky Junk Interiors for allowing me to try her Old Sign Stencils. There are over 20 designs to choose from. You can stencil until your hands cramp or you run out of paint.
I hope you enjoyed this quick wooden tray project. I’ll meet you back here on Tuesday. Have a fabulous weekend and a safe Memorial Day!
Add personality to a wooden tray with a coffee-themed stencil. Nothing is better then coffee on the porch in the morning. Use this wooden tray to serve your early morning (or afternoon) brew in style! Earlier this week I showed you how to make some fun felt travel accessories, but it’s been a while since […]
Thanks in part to the great brand collaborations here on IBC, I’ve had the chance to travel quite a bit. I am so grateful for these opportunities to meet new people and experience different places. However, I am not a big fan of the packing process. Since I’m always looking for ways to make it easier, today I’m going to show you DIY Felt Cable Organizers, a trick I use for keeping electronic accessories organized.
As you know I’ve partnered with Carnival Cruise Lines this year to share lots of travel-inspired ideas (and some delicious recipes, too). My last cruise with Carnival was eight glorious days. Since I’m often working while traveling (Self-employment allows me to work in the middle of the ocean.), I end up taking quite a few electronics. After stowing phone chargers, headphones, and laptop chargers in my bag, it can quickly become a tangle of cords. And we all know how much fun untangling cords, or evening finding the right cord in such a mess, can be. Um, not so much.
My solution? These DIY Felt Cable Organizers!
In addition to being super adorable, they also function well. Need proof? Here’s a typical collection of cords that I pack while traveling for an extended trip. That’s anywhere from 8 to 10 cords.
A hot mess, right?
Now, take a look at these cords after being wrangled with my homemade cable organizers.
Ahhh. Blissful. So much better, right? Plus, since I can easily see both ends of the cords, I can quickly identify which cord I need when I need it. Bonus time saver!
What makes these organizers even better is that they are a piece of cake to make. I kid you not. No sewing or fancy tools required. Plus, with the variety of colored felt on the market, you could even color code your cords if you want to take this organizational tool to the next level.
Let me show you how to make them.
Here’s what you will need:
Pattern (FREE download here)
Paper (Cardstock is recommended.)
Felt (3 mm thick)
Heavy duty snap kit
Hole punch
Marker (Disappearing ink is recommended.)
Scissors
Hammer
To get started, print out the FREE pattern. I’ve created a free download with two different sizes here. (I recommend using cardstock since it’s a bit sturdier.) Then cut the pattern out.
Trace the pattern onto your felt with a marker. For the felt, I prefer the 3 mm. This felt is a bit thicker (but not too thick), making it ideal for this project. Also, I recommend using a marker with disappearing ink (available in the sewing section of the craft store). This is helpful in case the marker bleeds or you miss a spot when cutting.
Then, cut out the felt.
Next, use your hole punch to cut out a hole on one end of the felt. (You’ll want a quality hole punch for this; a cheaper version may not be able to cut through the thick felt.) You want the hole to be centered and about 1/2 inch from the edge.
For the second hole, fold your felt in half and use your maker to make a dot through your first hole This mark is where the next hole should be punched to ensure that your felt pieces line up nicely when completed.
Next, use your heavy duty snap kit and hammer to attached the snaps. (Make sure your kit includes the tools for adding the snaps.) Follow the instructions on your particular snap kit for attaching. This process is simple; just be sure you attach the snaps the correct way so that the snaps will connect when your cable organizer is folded over.
And with that, your DIY Felt Cable Organizers are complete.
I told you they are simple to make.
And really cute, right? I took these on my last trip, and the woman sitting next to me on the plane was amazed. She was even more impressed when I told her I made them.
Tangled cables are a thing of the past; and you can look pretty fashionable (and clever) while being organized.
With that packing battle won, I’m ready to plan another trip. How about you? If you could sail anywhere, where would you go?
This post was created for Away We Go with Carnival, the destination for getting in the getaway state of mind. As always, all of the opinions, thoughts, and ideas in this post are my own.
This post is sponsored by Carnival Cruise Lines. Thanks in part to the great brand collaborations here on IBC, I’ve had the chance to travel quite a bit. I am so grateful for these opportunities to meet new people and experience different places. However, I am not a big fan of the packing process. Since […]
If you hang out with me over on Instagram or Facebook, you’ve probably noticed that this past weekend I started planting my outdoor flowers. Even through the rain, I was bound and determined to get things in the ground or in their pots so they could start growing. And anyone who knows me and music, won’t be surprised that with my tunes cranked up loud, I was shimmying while I shoveled.
Every year in the late summer or fall, I tell myself that come next spring I’m not going to buy so many flowers. Having to water plants daily, losing some to the critters or heat or whatever, and then cleaning up everything at the end of the growing season can drive me bananas. After years of doing this, you’d think I would have learned my lesson. No so. This year I have more pots and plants than ever!
Anywho, back to the music. Inspired by my planting adventures, I thought a new Tuesday Tunes list was in order. I’m calling this one the “Perfect Planting Playlist.” (Nice use of alliteration there, right?)
This playlist is kind of a grab bag of songs. However, it’s mostly what you’ve come to expect from me: chill and folksy, but still happy and groovy enough to keep you planting. What more could you ask for?
Go get your plants, grab your shovel and some soil, push play, and start planting. You can use the playlist above or listen directly on Spotify by clicking here.
Also, I made another playlist available on my Spotify profile. It’s called “RUN.” This is usually the playlist I turn on when I’m working out, running, walking, etc. These are the tunes that keep me moving. You’re welcome to subscribe to that playlist as well. However, while I don’t change my Tuesday Tunes lists, I am constantly updating my “RUN” playlist. I mention that because I don’t want you to be surprised when tracks disappear from the list. So, if there is something that you like, create your own list or note it elsewhere.
And while you’re on Spotify, be sure to subscribe to my profile. You’ll get a sneak listen to some of the playlists I’m working on and will be among the first to know when I create a new one.
Now, get to gardening. And happy listening!
If you hang out with me over on Instagram or Facebook, you’ve probably noticed that this past weekend I started planting my outdoor flowers. Even through the rain, I was bound and determined to get things in the ground or in their pots so they could start growing. And anyone who knows me and music, […]
As I mentioned in a few posts (and if you’re following me on social media, you also probably know), I had an opportunity to attend the Kentucky Derby this year. A few months ago the lovely folks at 14 Hands Winery invited me to be one of their guests. It was a very surreal moment. While the Derby was something I’d heard about, I never imagined I’d get to attend. As you can imagine, I was ecstatic when their invite appeared in my inbox.
You may be wondering what the connection is between 14 Hands Winery and the Kentucky Derby. Well, 14 Hands happens to be one of the sponsors of the Derby. Why are they a sponsor? Well, horses are measured by hand lengths, and 14 Hands grows their grapes in the hills of eastern Washington State where wild mustangs once roamed. Those mustangs typically measured fourteen hands high. Pretty cool, right? You can read more about their story on the 14 Hands website here.
Anywho, after lots of online shopping and packing about a dozen outfits (for three days mind you), I skipped off to Louisville, Kentucky for the Derby.
I was joined by Katie of Q Katie (a YouTuber) and Autumn of Divine Lifestyle (a fellow blogger). They are fabulous ladies, so be sure check them out. Upon our arrival we headed off to the Taste of Derby Festival. This event brings together top chefs from around the country to share their best Derby-inspired dishes. Naturally, every dish was paired with a 14 Hands wine. Clearly, it was a delicious and fun evening.
After being fully stuffed, it was time to call it a day. The next morning we headed off to Churchill Downs for the Kentucky Oaks. On our way, we made a quick detour to pick up some hats for Derby Day.
Even if you don’t know much about the Derby, you’re probably aware that the woman (and even some of the men) wear big hats decorated with feathers, flowers, etc. The lovely folks at 14 Hands took us to Dee’s Hats which has become a Louisville staple for Derby hats. I forget the exact number, but Dee’s makes close to 3,000 hats each year for the Derby.
Since hats are serious business, you can specify what you need to ensure that your hat matches your outfit. If you’re not Louisville-based, you can send in pictures of your outfit, and the shop will create something to match. In fact, we saw a Derby hat that was made out of a dress. Yes, a woman bought two dresses of the exact same style and had one cut up so that elements of it could be incorporated into a hat. I told you, hat making is serious business.
Our group got fitted with our hats (you’ll see them in some of the pictures below) and off to Churchill Downs we went. The day before the official Kentucky Derby is the Kentucky Oaks. This is a race for three-year-old fillies (female horses). Attendees are asked to “Pink out!” that is, wear pink for the day. Churchill Downs (in partnership with Bright Pink) uses this as an opportunity to raise awareness of the importance of prevention and early detection of breast and ovarian cancer in young woman. There’s even a survivors’ parade on the track before the main race. It’s truly a beautiful experience.
Our seats for the Kentucky Derby and Oaks races were in the infield, literally a few yards from the track. When the horses ran by, we could feel the vibration in our seats. It was an incredible experience that gave me goosebumps every time.
As some of you may know, the Kentucky Derby is famous for its mint juleps. The Kentucky Oaks also has a drink for the day which is called the Oaks Lily. This drink was inspired by the larger garland of pink lilies (known as the “Lilies for the Fillies”) that adorns the winning horse.
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After a long, fun day at the track we rested in preparation for the following day – the official Kentucky Derby!
While I was super impressed by the outfits at the Oaks, the derby was beyond spectacular. As fellow Derby attendee Katie so aptly said, “It was the biggest, fanciest party I’ve ever been to.” I couldn’t agree more. I opted for a seersucker blazer, pastel blue pants, a bow-tie with little mint juleps printed on it, and of course, my hat from Dees. I like to think I was stylin’.
Races run all day long at the Derby with the big race happening around 6:30 p.m. There’s downtime in between so you can sip on cocktails, snack, and place your bets.
Even though I’m not a big bourbon fan, I stuck with the classic mint julep for the day. It was perfection. I love a few things about it. First, the glass. Each year the derby designs a new glass for the race. How cute, right? Secondly, the crushed ice. You wouldn’t think that the shape of ice makes a difference in a cocktail, but it sure does. Crushed ice for the win!
I even brought along a few of my DIY Horse Drink Stirrers to adorn my drink and share with my new friends. The stirrers were a huge hit in our seating area. Dozens of people were asking where we got them. It was a proud moment for IBC. (Image below via Pierogi Creative)
While we were sipping on our mint juleps (and 14 Hands wines, of course) we snuck in a few bets. We placed one as a group, and I threw in $20 in an attempt to pick the winner. While I’m not usually a betting man, I figured it was part of the experience.
The actual derby race was more thrilling than I could have imagined. The excitement in the air was palpable and the roar of the crowd was a tsunami of sound. If you ever get the chance to attend or have thought about attending. It’s well worth it for those two amazing minutes.
Nyquist took home the big prize. And to my surprise, he was one of the horses I bet on! Winner, winner! (Don’t get too excited. I think my winnings totaled $13. Haha. But still, I won.)
Needless to say, it was a great day at the Derby!
Want another peek into my Derby experience? Check out Katie’s YouTube video. There’s even a little cameo of yours truly.
A big shout-out to Katie and Autumn. It was a joy being able to experience the derby with them. I couldn’t have asked for better people.
Also, whether you find yourself in Louisville for the Derby or are visiting another time of the year, I have a few downtown shopping recommendations. Check out CRAFT(s) Gallery and Gifthorse Shop. They are located near one another on East Market Street. There’s also a shop between them that’s full of quirky goodies, but I can’t remember its name. And, if you’re looking for a bite to eat, Milkwood is a must. It’s a fusion restaurant that combines southern inspiration with Asian flavors. The food is beyond delicious.
And that my friends recaps my incredible Derby experience. I can’t thank 14 Hands Winery enough for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Throughout the trip, we were able to sample lots of wine.14 Hands is available nationwide and comes at a great price point. Personally, I recommend the Sauvignon Blanc, Hot to Trot White Blend, and The Reserve Merlot. Yes, merlot. I’m usually not a fan of merlot, but this stuff is sensational. Also, I’m really looking forward to their Brut Rosé which is coming out soon if it’s not already available.
Cheers to the Derby!
This is not a sponsored post. However 14 Hands Winery did provide travel and accommodations for which I’m exceedingly grateful.
Grab your mint julep, big bright hat, and bow tie – we’re heading to the Derby! As I mentioned in a few posts (and if you’re following me on social media, you also probably know), I had an opportunity to attend the Kentucky Derby this year. A few months ago the lovely folks at 14 […]
Inspired by a sense of adventure and discovery, today I’m sharing some fruit infused cocktails. First, we’ll whip up two infused liquors, and then we’ll make two cocktails that put these infusions to work.
Being from a small town in Central Pennsylvania, I’m always thankful when I get the chance to travel for work or pleasure. Since I’m also a “foodie,” one of my favorite things to do is discover what unexpected things the local hot spots are serving. So when visiting a new-to-me restaurant, usually the first thing I ask for is the cocktail menu. Many times this menu is a preview of how the dinner menu will look. When I see artful combinations of fresh ingredients to create one-of-a-kind libations, I know I’m probably in for a fun and creative dinner menu as well. It’s a win-win.
After all of my recent travel, I thought it was time to try out some of the unique recipes I’ve found on menus during these adventures. With summer almost here, we also could all use some new and refreshing libations. Bring on the fruit infused cocktails.
Some of the flavor inspiration for these cocktails comes from the new Curate Snack bars. If you’ve been following IBC for the past couple months, you know I’ve partnered with Curate to share colorful ideas and brilliant combinations. (In case you missed them, you gotta check out my DIY painted brushstroke plates and my mason jar salad recipes.) In a nutshell, these Curate bars are made from fruit, nuts, and grains to create a delicious and wholesome snack that has a wonderful texture. If you have yet to try them, keep reading to the end of this post. Curate hooked me up with an Amazon coupon code for IBC readers. (Thanks, Curate!)
Okay, now that we’ve talked inspiration, let’s get into our cocktail creation.
To make these cocktails, you will need infused liquor. You’re probably thinking, “Michael, can’t I just buy flavored liquors at the store? Why should I make them?”
I recommend infusing your own for two reasons. First, you can use fresh, delicious, and natural ingredients. My guess is that most of the manufacturers’ flavored liquors aren’t infused with fresh fruit. Secondly, you can get really crazy with your flavor combinations to create something that you can’t buy in the store.
For your infusions, use whatever flavors you like best. For the purposes of this post, I’m going to show you how to make Strawberry Basil Infused Vodka and Pineapple Infused Rum.
Obviously, the process is pretty simple. Choose a liquor and then select a fruit, vegetable, herb, etc. that complements it. Put them together, wait a week or two, and you’re in business.
One more thing: use quality ingredients. Choose fruits and veggies that are ripe, fresh, and in season. Also, while you don’t need top shelf liquors, buy one that you actually like.
Now it’s time to infuse! Let me walk you through the recipes.
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Like the Curate bar’s combination of strawberries, chocolate and pistachios, strawberry and basil go together like peanut butter and jelly, so this combination is delicious. I’d also recommend trying this with gin if you’re a fan of that.
Next up, grab your rum!
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This particular infusion was inspired by my adventures in the Caribbean and the light and bright flavors of the Harmonious Blend bar. This infusion just screams tropical.
Okay, now that our liquors have soaked up all of that delicious fruity flavor, it’s time to make cocktails.
Because I love the flavor of the Strawberry Basil Infused Vodka so much, I wanted it to be the star of the show in a cocktail. That’s why I chose a martini.
Complemented by fresh citrus and a splash of St. Germain (You know how much I love my St. Germain!), this cocktail is fresh, earthy, fruity, and quintessentially summer.
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This martini happens to be quite gorgeous. And It tastes as good as it looks.
Next up is my tropical spin on a classic mojito.
After deciding to make Pineapple Infused Rum, a Pineapple Mojito was an obvious choice.
I had a mojito for the first time when I moved to Philadelphia after college. The lime, mint, and rum combination always takes me back to that time and place. Isn’t it amazing how a taste can let you time travel?
With this version, throw in fresh pineapple and you’re in business. Let’s stir one up.
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And that’s a wrap, friends. With four new recipes, you’re now ready for summer. If you’ve never infused liquors, I definitely recommend it. If you have, I’d love to know what combinations you like best.
Also, as I mentioned above, I wanted to pass along of coupon code for you to get your hands on some Curate Snack bars! The code is: CURATEMAY. It will give you 15% off your Curate Snack bar purchase via Amazon using the links below.
This post was created as part of my collaboration with Curate. The opinions, thoughts, and ideas in this post are my own.
This post is sponsored by Curate. Inspired by a sense of adventure and discovery, today I’m sharing some fruit infused cocktails. First, we’ll whip up two infused liquors, and then we’ll make two cocktails that put these infusions to work. Being from a small town in Central Pennsylvania, I’m always thankful when I get the […]
In a post earlier today, I talked about my recent visit to a Farmer’s Market in Vista, California and shared my recipe for Sparkling Mint Lemonade. As promised, I’m back with some goodies for you including details on a recipe card printable and giveaway.
For the event, I thought it would be fun to have something to giveaweay to the visitors and folks that participated in the demonstration. I thought the idea of having a recipe card would be both beautiful and practical. This way, visitors could easily recreate the recipe at home with a recipe card in hand.
Naturally, because I couldn’t stop there, I took things a little further and had some blank recipe cards printed as well. (Coordinating recipe cards for the win!) It’s always nice to have some blank recipe cards on hand. Then, to incorporate the idea of planting, I added in a couple dozen pineapple mint seeds. Not only is it my favorite mint, but it worked really nicely with the Sparkling Mint Lemonade recipe.
To bring it all together, everything was tucked into a glassine envelope along with my business card. I sealed it with some metallic gold washi tape and popped a coordinating sticker on the front.
So, now you’re probably thinking, “Well, this is nice Michael, but we weren’t there, so how in the heck does this benefit us?”
Well, I’m glad you asked. First, I think it’s a really cute idea. Whether you’re hosting a baby/bridal shower, birthday party, or just dining al fresco, it’s a creative way to share a recipe and unique little takeaway with your guests.
Secondly, I have about 25 of these little packets leftover and I want to give them away to you! Who doesn’t love a giveaway? We will get to that in a second.
Finally, I’ve decide to make the blank recipe cards available as a free downloadable printable. (This post is just full of awesomeness.) However, there’s one little catch. You need to be subscribed to the IBC Mailing List to get the link to the printable. That’s fair, right?
It’s really easy to join. You can click here, click the image below, or use one of the mailing list boxes found on the site. They all work the same way. You will have until Friday, May 20th at 9am EST to sign up. The email will go out shortly after that. If you’re already part of the mailing list, no worries. You’ll be getting the link too.
What happens if you’re reading this after Friday, May 20th at 9am EST? Well, you’re in luck too! If you join the IBC mailing list, you’ll get a welcome email with a link to the free printable. This way, no one misses out.
I’m really hoping that you all like these cards. If so, I may considering having new recipe cards created for each season to share with you. Wouldn’t that be exciting?
Okay, I think I’ve babbled on enough. Let’s circle back to that giveaway.
Today, I’m giveaway away a Farmer’s Market Recipe Card Packet to 25 lucky IBC readers. To enter to win, use the entry form below. (Those viewing this on a blog reader may need to visit the actual post by clicking here.)
Simply input your email address in the box below to be entered to win. Bonus entries are available for follows / sharing on social media.
This giveaway is open to readers worldwide. You must be 18 or older to win. Void where prohibited. This giveaway will end at 11:59 pm ET on Sunday, May 22th. The winners will be randomly selected, contacted by email (for mailing address), and announced at the top of this post.
*Recipe Card Printable: CLICK HERE* In a post earlier today, I talked about my recent visit to a Farmer’s Market in Vista, California and shared my recipe for Sparkling Mint Lemonade. As promised, I’m back with some goodies for you including details on a recipe card printable and giveaway. For the event, I thought it […]
Take your lemonade to the next level with this delicious homemade Sparkling Mint Lemonade recipe.
Sparkling Mint Lemonade:
When life gives you lemons, make Sparkling Mint Lemonade! Or, be like Beyonce, and smash some car windows. The choice is yours. I recommend the Sparkling Mint Lemonade.
Last month I had the opportunity to visit a farmer’s market in Vista, California in partnership with my friends over at Miracle-Gro Nature’s Care. In case you’re not familiar with Nature’s Care, they have a full line of products inspired by nature, including soils, plant foods, and controls designed for organic gardening.
This post is sponsored by Miracle-Gro Nature’s Care.
Nature’s Care created a mobile tour that visit farmer’s markets along the west coast and invited bloggers and creators like myself to join the tour and offer a fun (and in my case delicious) demonstration showcasing their new line of products.
Inspired by my fondness for fresh herbs and for growing edible gardens back home. I decided to share a recipe for Sparkling Mint Lemonade.
Now, I know what you’re thinking. Sparkling Mint Lemonade sounds kind of basic. I agree. However, as I’ve mentioned many times here on IBC, sometimes you can’t beat a classic recipe, especially when you give it a little twist.
How to Make Sparkling Mint Lemonade:
Muddling fresh mint into the recipe and then topping the lemonade with a splash of sparkling water truly makes this drink special.
For that reason, I felt this was a doable idea and fabulous thing to demonstrate at the Farmer’s Market. I was right. It was a wonderful day, and folks loved the lemonade.
What made the day even more memorable was that several IBC readers stopped by. SweetShade Lane and Damara (and hubby) drove several hours to visit and share their pictures with me. – You made the day extra special. I can’t thank you enough.
Also, be sure to pop back on IBC later today. I created fun packets that I gave away at the farmer’s market. They included a recipe card for the lemonade, blank recipe cards, and pineapple mint seeds for growing your own mint with Nature’s Care. I’ll be giving away some extra packets and revealing how you can get free printables of the recipes cards I had designed for the event. (ENTER TO WIN and learn about the free printables HERE.)
Anywho, as promised, for all of you who couldn’t attend, I’m sharing the Sparkling Mint Lemonade recipe below. Give it a try for your summer celebrations and let me know what you think.
Have fun with it. Toss in other things such as fresh berries or use basil instead of mint to create your own unique flavor. ( The adorable glass bottles can be found HERE.)
In a pitcher, add the fresh mint leaves and simple syrup.
Gently muddle the leaves with a wooden spoon, being careful not to tear them.
Stir in the lemon juice and cold water.
Just before serving, add the ice and sparking water. Garnish with sliced lemon.
Notes
*Simple Syrup - In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup white sugar and 1 cup water. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Increase the heat and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium and simmer for about three minutes. Chill thoroughly before using.
Made it? Share it!Tag @inspiredbycharm on Instagram and use the tag #myIBC so we can see what you're cooking in the kitchen!
Take your lemonade to the next level with this delicious homemade Sparkling Mint Lemonade recipe. Sparkling Mint Lemonade: When life gives you lemons, make Sparkling Mint Lemonade! Or, be like Beyonce, and smash some car windows. The choice is yours. I recommend the Sparkling Mint Lemonade. Last month I had the opportunity to visit a […]
These Pulled Pork Sliders make a delicious appetizer or a full meal. Topped with flavorful homemade coleslaw they are a recipe everyone will love.
Today on IBC I’m teaching how to make these adorable and delicious Pulled Pork Sliders. Pulled Pork is sort of a staple around these parts. If you’re invited to an outdoor party in the summer, you will probably find pulled pork, beef on wick, or hot Italian sausage (or all three) on the menu.
Pulled Pork Sliders:
Why? Well, they are all fairly easy to make (especially in large quantities), and they are packed with flavor. Plus, they fit on a bun, and most people enjoy them. I also think they’re popular because you can slather them with ketchup, mayo, horseradish, or BBQ sauce.
When I was asked by KC Masterpiece® to try out their new BBQ Sauce Mix and Dry Rubs, I thought it would be the perfect opportunity to make pulled pork for the first time. And as a bonus, to make my Pulled Pork Sliders even more special, I’m topping them with homemade Purple Cabbage Coleslaw.
They can be used as a BBQ sauce, dry rub, or marinade. What’s unique about them is they are a dry mix which you can customize with water, juice, beer, bourbon, etc. to create whatever flavor combination you like best. Love that!
How to Make Pulled Pork Sliders:
I found these at my local Walmart along with everything else needed for the sliders. One-stop shopping equals an easy summer entertaining recipe.
In case you’ve never made pulled pork, you need to know that it requires a pretty long cooking time. I recommend breaking out the slow cooker. Let the pork cook all day or overnight depending on when you plan to serve it.
Once the pork is cooked low and slow, it will easily fall apart. Using your hands (or a couple forks), you “pull” the pork into thin shreds, making it the perfect bun topping.
You can serve pulled pork as is, however, I like upping the flavor party with BBQ sauce. I whipped up some of the KC Masterpiece® Sweet Honey BBQ Sauce using liquid saved from cooking the pork, apple juice, and balsamic vinegar.
I put some of the BBQ sauce into the pulled pork and saved some to slather on the sliders when serving.
To give these sliders some extra flavor, crunch, and color, I made a batch of Purple Cabbage Coleslaw.
For me (and I assume plenty of others), coleslaw is the perfect topping for pulled pork. The cool and creamy crunchiness of the coleslaw is the ideal partner for the warm and tangy pulled pork.
I really like this purple cabbage coleslaw variation. However, feel free to use your favorite recipe.
With all of the elements ready to go, the sliders were topped with pulled pork, BBQ sauce, and coleslaw. Then it was time to serve and enjoy.
Delicious!
What more? Here’s what to serve with your Pulled Pork Sliders:
If you can’t tell from the pictures, I’m pleased to report my first pulled pork attempt was a huge success. (Even my Mom, who’s an amazing cook, was asking for the coleslaw recipe.) Not only do the sliders look great, but they are super tasty and packed with flavor. (Thanks in part to my unique BBQ variation!)
I also think the locals will approve of my variation. I mean, who doesn’t like food in miniature form? Well, just as long as there’s plenty to go around.
Have you ever tried making pulled pork? What’s your favorite way to eat it and how would you customize your BBQ sauce?
Pulled Pork Slider Recipe:
Pulled Pork Sliders
makes about 36 sliders
Here's what you will need:
36 Slider buns
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon salt
1 tablespoon paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 boneless pork shoulder (3 pounds), skin and excess fat removed
1 yellow onion, chopped
1/2 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
36 slider buns
BBQ Sauce
2 packets KC Masterpiece® Sweet Honey BBQ Sauce Mix
3/4 cups apple juice
1/2 cup reserved pork liquid
4 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, salt, paprika, cumin, and black pepper. Rub onto the pork shoulder. Set aside.
In the bottom of a slow cooker, add a layer of onions, chicken broth, and balsamic vinegar. Place the seasoned pork shoulder on top. Cover and cook on low for about 8 hours until very tender. Remove the meat. Reserve the liquid and let it cool.
When cool, use a fork or your hands to pull the meat into shreds. Remove any excess fat or grizzle.
Using a spoon, skim off any excess fat from the liquid in the slow cooker, Strain the liquid through a fine mesh sieve, reserving the liquid. Reserve one half cup of this liquid; return the rest to the crock pot with the shredded pork.
Next, prepare your BBQ sauce. In a medium bowl combine the KC Masterpiece Sweet Honey BBQ Sauce Mix, apple juice, reserved pork liquid, and balsamic vinegar.
Add one cup of the BBQ sauce to the slow cooker. Mix to combine with the pulled pork. Cook for one more hour on low. Serve on slider buns, topped with Purple Cabbage Coleslaw, and additional BBQ sauce.
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Purple Slaw Recipe:
Purple Cabbage Coleslaw
Here's what you will need:
2 cups purple cabbage, thinly sliced
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
1 cup matchstick carrots
4 kale leaves, diced
Dressing 1 cup mayonnaise
1 lemon, juiced
1 tablespoon grainy mustard
2 tablespoons honey
Salt and pepper to taste
In a large bowl, combine the cabbage, onion, carrots, and kale.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, grainy mustard, and honey. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Add the dressing to the veggies until desired creaminess is achieved.
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These Pulled Pork Sliders make a delicious appetizer or a full meal. Topped with flavorful homemade coleslaw they are a recipe everyone will love. Today on IBC I’m teaching how to make these adorable and delicious Pulled Pork Sliders. Pulled Pork is sort of a staple around these parts. If you’re invited to an outdoor […]
