Brief Bits

Nearly two months have passed since my last Brief Bits post.  Way too long.  I had a list going of over 60 ideas I wanted to share, and even more in my Reader.  Since so many of them were holiday related, and I woke up at a gosh-awful hour this morning, I thought I should throw them up on the blog before the big day arrives.  I know there's really no time now to create a new holiday decoration or add another goodie to your menu, but maybe something there's something here you'll want to remember for next year?

So, in the interest of time, here's a super-quick round-up of what I've found on the web recently that got my creative juices flowin':

Going to break it up, to make it a bit easier to digest... there's a lot of good stuff here!

DECOR

1.  From AllSorts - Festive Felt Christmas Trees
I want to make a trio of these for the table in my entryway... so cute!

2.  From eighteen25 - Christmas Subway Art and Glitter Trees
There were so many free printables offered up this season!  (I even offered a few myself.)  By far, my most favorite was this rendition by eighteen25... adorable!  And, I love the glitter trees they shared, too.  (Now, I just need to overcome my loathing of glitter - love the look, hate the mess!)

3.  From The Stories of A to Z - PB-Inspired NOEL sign
LOVE this!  I'm anxious to make one of my own.

4.  From Eddie Ross - Ornament Wreath
While I was not his biggest fan on Top Design, there's no denying that his Ornament Wreath is a classic... and tops on my list of Christmas crafts to complete.  :)

5.  From The Speckled Dog - Christmas Ribbon Wreath
So fun and so cute!  Next year...

6.  From Domestifluff - Ruffly Felt Rosette Wreath
I definitely see one of these in my future... Just need to commit to cutting hundreds of circles by hand.  Maybe a red one for Valentine's Day??

7.  From The Birkmeyer's - Yarn Wreath with Rolled Felt Flowers
Not only is this adorable wreath by a good friend and former roommate of mine, it might be my favorite one of the 7 I'm sharing today.  LOVE the color palette - so perfect and unexpected, and I adore those felt flowers!  So cute!

8.  From The Diary of Dave's Wife - Holly Jolly Yarn Wreath
Another cute version of a yarn wreath... love the combined colors!

9.  From Just Between Friends - Winter Wreath
Another pretty version of Eddie Ross's classic ornament wreath.  Love the addition of tinsel and beads.

10.  From Pickles - Felt Ball Wreath
Felt Balls.  Must.find.some.

11.  From Oh Happy Day - Felt Ball Garland
Another project for felt balls... I NEED to make one of these!  Next year...

12.  From Noodlehead - Snowflake Pillows
I have a soft spot for anything snowflake, and most of my holiday decor is in a red/white combo.  I'd love to make a bunch of these for the sofa.

13.  From Really Quite Lucky - Starry Nativity Backdrop
I have this nativity set... it's my favorite.  I didn't think I could love it any more than I already do, until I saw this clever lighted backdrop.  I need to figure out how to do this for next year!

14.  From Make It Do - Stove Top Potpourri
I'm really tempted to send Brian to the store for these ingredients today.  I love the smells of Christmas!

FOOD

15.  From The Sisters Cafe - Pumpkin Pie Squares
Pumpkin pie is my favorite of all the pies.  These yummy treats are going on my list!

16.  From Hostess with the Mostess - Layered Pumpkin Chocolate Cheesecake Bars
Three of my favorite things all wrapped up in one delicious bar.  I have all the ingredients... just no time this weekend.  Darn.  Maybe Wednesday...  ;)

17.  From Make It Do - Orange Glazed Poppyseed Bread
My mother is the quick bread queen.  So, naturally I have a fondness for them, too.  Plus, I love anything poppyseed.  Yum!

18.  From Make It and Love It - Cranberry Cake with Warm Vanilla Butter Sauce
This looks like the perfect holiday dessert... can't wait to give it a try!

19.  From The CooCoo Nest - Breakfast Muffins
These definitely look holiday breakfast worthy...  maybe for New Year's Day??

20.  From Glitter to Gumdrops - Pecan Pie Muffins
Mmmmm... YUM!  (And the recipe is easy, to boot!)

21.  From Sherbet Blossom - Loaded Pretzels
Pretzels and chocolate are a dangerous combination for me... these look mandatory!

22.  From Crazy Domestic - Melted Snowman Cookies
How CUTE are these?!  I think they'll be a must in January next year for me.

23.  From The Sisters Cafe - Pumpkin Cream Trifle
This reminds me that my trifle bowl is grossly underused.  I'll be breaking it out for this delicious recipe... STAT!

24.  From Hallelujahs by Holly - Butterfinger Wannabes Recipe
My mom is a big fan of Butterfingers.  I think she's going to have to give these a try!

25.  From The Cook Next Door - Pumpkin Crumb Cake
Have you noticed a favorite ingredient yet??  I heart all things pumpkin... it's not just for Thanksgiving, anymore.  This looks melt-in-your-mouth YUMMY!

26.  From The Idea Room - Powdered Donut Snowmen Treats
How cute are these?!  Love this.

27.  From Kraft Foods - Triple-Chocolate Mousse Cake
This recipe is definitely making an appearance at Casa de Sprik on New Year's Eve.  I can't wait!

Whew!  So, there you have it... 27 great holiday finds. I hope something here inspires you, too!

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Brief Bits

Here's a quick round-up of what I've found on the web recently that got my creative juices flowin':

1.  From MADE - Coconut Lime Banana Bread
The next time I make banana bread, it's gonna be this divine-looking recipe, guaranteed.

2.  From Flitterbugs - Make Your Own Swiffer Refills
Genius... absolutely genius!  I typically have an off-brand that I use, but I like the idea of making a reusable pad even more.

3.  From Crafty Nest - Pom-Pom Trimmed Tablecloth
LOVE this idea... so simple, and so cute!

4.  From The Pretty Poppy - A Pretty Little Rosie Wreath
I normally don't really care for flowers on wreaths, but I really like the repetition of the felt rolled flowers on this one.  So cute!

5.  From The Scrap Shoppe - Button Bib Necklace
I'm not a big jewelry-wearer, so I'm not a huge fan of bib necklaces, but this one I adore!  Not sure if I could pull it off, but I love this look.

6.  From Awesome Family Fun - Rainbow Jello
Such a pretty dessert - would be amazing for a colorful birthday party!

7.  From Gluesticks - Samoas Bars
I've professed my love for Samoas before... and Girl Scout cookies are months from appearing at this point.  Won't have to twist my arm to give these yummy bars a try!

8.  From Your Homebased Mom - Lemon Cream Chicken
My mouth is watering as I type this... and it's midnight.  Must make this recipe, ASAP!

9.  From The Novice Chef Blog - Vertical Pear Salad
This salad looks both stunning AND delicious!  I might try to incorporate this into Christmas dinner.

10.  From Jones Design Company - Silhouette Tutorial
This is a very easy-to-follow tutorial that walks you step-by-step through making a silhouette using photo-editing software.  Maybe next time I want to update the silhouette I have of Connor, I'll give this a whirl.  But then again, I do have a very nice, very intelligent brother that could help me out again, too.  (See how I'm buttering him up here?)  BTW, Erik (the other brother)... I think you're very nice and very intelligent, too.  ;)

11.  From My Kitchen Cafe - Chili-Rubbed Pork with Apricot Glaze & Baked Garlic Mashed Potatoes
All I need is a green salad and we're set for dinner!  This looks delicious!!

12.  From Budget Wise Home via Someday Crafts - Wrapping Station
If I only had a special space set aside for gift wrapping...  {sigh}.  I love this ingenious idea for a gift wrapping station.

13.  From Arte & Manha - Alphabet Name Print
This blog is in Portuguese, but you can easily get the gist of her idea by the pictures.  Great way to incorporate the alphabet and your child's name in the same print - modern and fresh.  I love it!

14.  From Made by Rae - Felt Letters
How adorable are these little letter "pillows"??  Makes me want to have a little girl and name her "Clementine", too!

15.  From MaryJanes & Galoshes - State-Inspired Hand Embroidery
Love this cute idea to embroider your favorite state and frame it up!  I don't know how to embroider, but I can cross-stitch... I'm thinking I could probably figure it out for this project.  So cute!

16.  From The Sisters' Cafe - Cheesecake Bars
These look YUMMY and really easy, too.  I'm excited to try them out for myself.


So, there you have it... 16 great finds. I hope something here inspires you, too!

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Brief Bits

Here's a quick round-up of what I've found on the web recently that got my creative juices flowin':

1.  From Project Nursery - Squared Feature Wall
I keep running into photos of this nursery online... I love the crispness of this gridded paint treatment.  One day, I'll have to attempt something similar.

2.  From The Purl Bee - New Year's Garland
LOVE this simple garland idea!  Will be making one for Connor's 2nd birthday party, most definitely.

3.  From Lori Danelle - DIY Hanging Bookshelf
I've highlighted a similar idea before, and this version made me fall in love with it all over again.

4.  From All Recipes - Jo's Rosemary Bread
I can't remember how I stumbled upon this bread machine recipe... but doesn't it look delicious??

5.  From Susie Harris - Mini Cake Bunting
LOVE this idea... seriously.  I can't wait to have a reason to make a fun cake!

6.  From House*Tweaking - Lamp Shade Face Lift
I've already got a roll of ribbon, and I'm going to tackle this little up-do on my master bedroom lamps.  So simple, but it adds so much without being frou-frou.

7.  From Sugar Bee - Custom Kitchen Towels
Simple towels and fabric are at the top of my shopping list right now.  These would make great gifts!

8.  From Lifehacker - Mince herbs with a drinking glass and scissors
For Christmas, I'm dreaming of either this or these... I hate the food prep process of cooking, so I'm all over anything that will make something so tedious a little bit easier.  In the meantime, I want to give this ingenious method a try.

9.  From The Birthday Blog - Giant S'mores Cake
It's a s'more!  It's a cake!  It's GENIUS!

10.  From Sugar Plum - Almond Joy Truffles
I know someone who would love to taste these...  too bad I don't live closer, Dad.  Guess you're going to have to bribe Mom.

11.  From Piccadilly Circus Designs on Etsy - Custom Birthday Shirt
Once I saw this shirt, I knew that's what Connor would be wearing at his 2nd birthday party this December... it's on order, and I can't wait to get it!

12.  From Somewhat Simple - Edible Finger Paints
Connor's favorite food is yogurt and his favorite thing to do is make a mess...  he'll LOVE this idea!

So, there you have it... 12 great finds. I hope something here inspires you, too!

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Brief Bits

It's all about FALL!  Here's a quick round-up of what I've found on the web recently that got my creative juices flowin':

1.  From Every Day is a Hollie Day - Pumpkin Topiaries
Fun idea for turning those fake, craft pumpkins into something gorgeous for your front porch.  I think I'll be hunting down 6 pumpkins on clearance this year...

2.  From Good Housekeeping - Ribboned Mini Pumpkins
Easy, simple, inexpensive idea.  I personally like pumpkins best in their uncarved state.  Love it!

3.  From Agape Love - Create your own Pumpkin Carving Template
But, if you are going to carve a pumpkin, why not personalize it?  I really want to give this idea a try... find a cute pic of Connor and see if I can turn it into my own template.  Great idea!

4.  From The Crafty Cupboard - Spider Web Table Runner
LOVE this idea!  With a little bit of time and patience, and using her handy-dandy web template, you could have a fun Halloween table runner, too.

5.  From One Charming Party - Bat Party: Invitations
If I ever throw a party in October, I'm going to have to use this cute bat invitations idea!  Templates included, you supply the bat "face".

6.  From Infarrantly Creative - Paint Chip Candy Corn Necklace & Earrings
Such an adorable idea using paint chips (free), jewelry hardware (cheap), and Mod Podge Dimensional Magic (I wondered what you could do with it when I saw it at the store... NOW I know!).  Love that she provided a tutorial video as well as pictures.  These would make fun gifts!

7.  From Kitchen Corners - Pumpkin Snickerdoodles
She had me at Snickerdoodle... then she added PUMPKIN.  I die.

8.  From Dear Piper - Spiced German Choc. Cupcakes w/ Pumpkin Butter Frosting
I have just one word:  YUM!

9.  Framed Seasonal Small Objects
I'm officially on the hunt for those little items that lack pizazz all by themselves, but throw them on a frame with a cute background... and WOW!  Check these out:  Single small pumpkin, sugared pumpkin collage, black crow, and large pumpkin

10.  From Crazy Domestic - Apple Nachos
Apples, and caramel, and chocolate... OH MY!

11.  From Noodlehead - Rosanne's Apple Pie Squares
This looks delicious!  'nuff said.

12.  From The Breadman's Wife - The Non-Cakey Pumpkin Cookie
I salivate over the pumpkin-chocolate combo.  Interesting idea to turn the pumpkin puree to pumpkin butter, to remove excess moisture.  Will definitely be giving these cookies a try!

13.  From Make It and Love It - Autumn Table Runner / Mat
Fun idea for a festive addition to your kitchen table.  Instead of vinyl, you could even hem a piece of fabric or find a basic placemat.  I saw this idea a couple of weeks ago, but have had no luck finding loose silk leaves.  I'll be saving this idea for next fall!

14.  From Madigan Made - Pumpkin Fluff
This pumpkin dip looks divine!  Now I've just got to find me some gingersnaps.

15.  From Brown Paper Packages - Halloween Book Countdown
I'm already doing a similar idea myself as one of our family Christmas traditions, but this is a fun idea for Halloween!  Plus, she provides a handy list of some of her family's spooky favorites.

16.  From Embellishing Life - Framed Pumpkin Patch
CUTE rendition of the famous Ali Edwards collage idea.

So, there you have it... 16 great FALL finds. I hope something here inspires you, too!

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Brief Bits

Here's a quick round-up of what I've found on the web recently that got my creative juices flowin':

1.  From The Adventures of One Crazy Lady - Buttoned Monogram Pillow
When Connor's a little older and I don't have to worry about him wanting to pop off one of these buttons to eat it, I'd love to make one of these - such a CUTE idea!

2.  From Tidy Mom - Homemade Pizza Rolls
One of Brian's food groups is pizza, and we already know that Connor loves it too.  These little rolls look pretty tasty - I'm going to have to give them a try.

3.  From 33 Shades of Green - Tissue Paper Flower
LOVE this idea!  Such a pretty alternative to those boring bows from a bag.

4.  From Kevin and Amanda - Cookies 'N Cream Oreo Fudge Brownies
She had me at OREO!  These look divine.

5.  From Under the Table and Dreaming - DIY Drawer Organizers
The plastic utensil organizers you buy at the store are not always one-size-fits-all.  This tutorial shows you how you can subdivide your drawers on your own, depending on your needs... and makes it look easy!

6.  From Just Cook Already - Strawberry Bread
My mother instilled in me a love of quick breads.  This little number is made with frozen strawberries, so you can enjoy it any time of the year.  Definitely will be trying out this yummy-looking recipe!

7.  From Prudent Baby - DIY Tissue Garland
This is a fun little idea to dress up your next party, instead of using tired-old crepe paper streamers.  So cute!

8.  From Ohdeedoh - Make your own clouds
LOVE this idea to make hanging clouds out of quilt batting.  So simple and sweet - they'd be perfect in a nursery.

9.  From Just Another Day in Paradise - Best Ever Red Potatoes
Sadly, potatoes could be one of my food groups.  :)  So yes, I will be trying these out.  I really like that you prepare and begin baking them whole (little prep work) 2 hours prior to done time.  Being able to spread out my preparations means that dinner comes together on time and a little more smoothly.

10.  From Oops! I Craft My Pants - Caramel Popcorn
This recipe calls for just 4 ingredients, a microwave and corn popper, and a few minutes of time.  Looks delicious!  Caramel popcorn just tastes like fall to me.

11.  From Tasty Kitchen - Butter Chicken
I'm not a huge connoisseur of Indian food, but this recipe looks yummy enough to try.  I'll have to go spice shopping, but that's never stopped me before from trying something new.

12.  From The KID Collective - Free Playlists
I love new music, especially by indie bands.  I discovered the free, downloadable playlists offered on this blog a few months ago, and they're some of the most played tracks on my iTunes.  Check it out!

13.  From I Am Momma, Hear Me Roar! - The What's Up Weekly Board
Such a cute idea to help your little one understand when something is coming up.  She even offers the little icons to make your own activity magnets as a free download.  So clever!

So, there you have it... 13 great finds. I hope something here inspires you, too!

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Brief Bits

Lots of fun seasonal ideas this time around.  Here's a quick round-up of what I've found on the web recently that got my creative juices flowin':

1.  From eighteen25 - Fluffy Spider Tutorial
Can't stand the live ones, but this one made of yarn and pipe cleaners is pretty darn cute!  Love how it's displayed, hung from a string.

2.  Mindy Gledhill - Anchor
Love, love, LOVE this album.  If you enjoy bright, melancholy music, à la Ingrid Michaelson, Meiko, or A Fine Frenzy (think Grey's Anatomy -type music), you will like Mindy's music.  (This is not church pop, never fear.)  I downloaded it a few weeks ago, and it's been keeping me company late at night while on the computer... every.single.night.  I think my favorite is the title track, Anchor.

3.  From Funky Polkadot Giraffe - Candy Corn Bunting
There are a lot of candy corn buntings floating around the craft blogs these days...  this one is by far my favorite.  So cute!  ...and easy enough, I could probably make it.

4.  From Singing with Birds - Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars
I love me some crème brûlée... pair it with cheesecake and I've died and gone to heaven. We're having company in a few weeks, and I think I may have to use that as an excuse to give these a try!

5.  From Inspiring Creations - Ribbon Pumpkin
I think I like white pumpkins the best, and I really like this idea of lining the pumpkin with ribbon - so cute!

6.  From Martha's Crafts Department - Mail a Paper Heart Garland
I adore this simple idea!  And I'm thinking I'll modify it a bit for our Valentines next year.  Here's what we did last year.

7.  From Tasty Kitchen - Pecan Pie Muffins
Growing up in Texas, pecans and the delicious pies to be made with them were plentiful.  In fact, I'm already salivating over the delicious pecan pie we're sure to enjoy on Thanksgiving Day.  Maybe I'll have to try these yummies to tide me over until then.

8.  From Lu Bird Baby - Heads up on TJ's Pumpkin Pancake and Waffle Mix 
Pumpkin, glorious pumpkin!  I visited a local Trader Joe's last weekend, and they didn't have this mix in yet...  but I did pick up a box of their pumpkin bread mix.  I keep forgetting to check at the grocery store, but did you know there's a pumpkin shortage this year?  I'll be on the hunt for canned pumpkin for sure!  One of my favorite things to make is Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread - it just isn't Fall without it.

9.  From A Little Lovely - Fall Wreath Tutorial
The back of my front door desperately needs something new.  A simple wreath like this would be perfect!  I love the sparseness of the flowers, so that you can still see the grapevine form underneath it.

10.  From Lifehacker - Fruit Fly Trap
Oh how I wish I had found this just 2 weeks ago!  I brought fruit flies home with me after a trip to the grocery store, and then had to ban fresh fruit on the counter (ie. melons, peaches, etc.) until they were killed all gone.  So, we haven't enjoyed much of nature's late summer bounty this year.  And to think all I needed was a little apple cider vinegar and dish soap.  Next year...

11.  From Just Another Day in Paradise - Old MacDonald Puppets
How adorable are these?!?  Larissa generously has provided her patterns and a tutorial for all 9 puppets - WOW.  Made with felt, a sewing machine, and a lot of love... I'm excited to give these a try (or convince Grandma Rogers to).  ;)

12.  From A Crafty Escape - Halloween Countdown Chain
Such a clever idea to make the traditional countdown chain a little more permanent and reusable!  Each link is made of fabric and velcro - love it.

13.  From Sew Totally Smitten - Candy Corn Door Hanging
Honestly, I can't stand the taste or texture of candy corn... but I think this door hanging is really fun!  Amber's candy corn is made of canvas, and then her stripes are painted on with fabric paint - genius.

So, there you have it... 13 great finds. I hope something here inspires you, too!

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Brief Bits

Here's a quick round-up of what I've found on the web recently that got my creative juices flowin':

1.  From Tennessee Locavore - The Perfect Snickerdoodle
The snickerdoodle is probably my all-time favorite cookie, if we're talking homemade.  Few bakeries actually get it right, so I usually just go with a chocolate chip (which isn't all that hard to mess up).  The snickerdoodle is a different story... it's all about texture and the right balance of ingredients, not to mention the correct cinnamon to sugar ratio on top.  I definitely want to give this recipe a try!

2.  From A Southern Fairytale - Oreo Truffles
These look divine... and easy, too!  I think I'm going to have to give these a whirl this Christmas season for sure.  For more Oreo Truffle ideas, check this link out, too.

3.  From Martha Stewart - Key Ring Cardholder
A genius idea!  I'd love to gather up all of mine, and just keep them in the glovebox of the car, pulling them out only when needed.

4.  From I Am Momma, Hear Me Roar! - The Magic Tie Trick
So, so clever!  Floppy ties bug me, but probably not as much as the person wearing them.  I bet pretty soon someone's going to market this idea.

5.  From Less-Than-Perfect Life of Bliss - PB Teen-Inspired USA Chalkboard
I noticed the PB Teen version in my latest catalog, too.  She's pulled off an amazing rendition here, at a fraction of the sale price.  Great tutorial!

6.  From Picky Palate - Oreo Cheesecake Pretzel Bites
Another fabulous idea for Oreos!  This looks really tasty - I'd bet the combination of salty + sweet is fantastic!  This is on my holiday to-make list, too.

7.  From This Blessed Nest - Chalkboard Wall
I'd love to have a chalkboard wall in my home someday.  I really like how she made hers in a hallway, utilizing an otherwise less-used space.  Such a good idea!

8.  From Oops! I Craft My Pants - Phone Case Inserts
I'm not really into "blinging" out your personal electronics, but I LOVE this idea for "decorating" your phone.  Using scrapbook paper that you can switch out on a whim - so clever!  Now I want an iPhone, just so I can fancy it up!  (Tastefully, of course.)

9.  From Workman Family Blog - Car Seat Blanket Tutorial
Great idea for creating a car seat blanket cover by sewing loops to the top of an existing blanket.  I wish we'd had one of these when Connor was small... our blanket never wanted to stay on top of the handle.

10.  From Shark Bait - Terror Alert System
Tiburon's family discipline system is one of my favorites - it's simple and clear and consistent.  Her system integrates rewards and extra-curriculars.  I'm hanging on to these idea, though I plan on Connor being a complete angel.  ;)

11.  Unhearit
If I get "There's a Party in My Tummy" stuck in my head one more time, I'm running straight over to this site to get it replaced with something a lot less annoying!

12.  From Creations by Kara - Magleby's Parmesan Rolls
Yes, I trolled Kara's archives last week and found quite a few goodies!  I lived in Utah Valley for 11 years, and Magleby's Restaurant was one of my favorites.  I miss these rolls... but not anymore, now that I can make my own!

13.  From My Delicious Ambiguity - 15 Games You Can Play With A Blanket
This is a fun little list!  I'm already planning on implementing a few of these ideas this winter when we're homebound.  Connor still loves to play #1.

14.  From Pioneer Woman - Layered Salad
I love me a good salad!  This one looks delicious and would be a great opportunity for me to dig out my underused trifle bowl.

15.  From Taste of Home - S'more Bars
We'll see if Brian's paying attention to the posts on the blog... if he asks nicely, I'll make these for him.  YUM!

16.  From Ten June - DIY Picture Frame Collage
LOVE this idea!  Just string wire across the length of an open frame, use some cute clips, and attach all epherma you wish.  This would be perfect in our upcoming home office re-do (another post, another time).  Her tutorial is posted here.

17.  From Sumo's Sweet Stuff - Dipped Nutter Butters
I have my dad to blame for my love of peanut butter.  You just can't go wrong with a Nutter Butter cookie... add chocolate to it?!?  I die.

18.  From Mini-Eco - Printable Sewing Cards
Adorable free printable!  Such a fun activity to keep little hands busy, and quiet!

So, there you have it... 18 great finds. I hope something here inspires you, too!

If you've been featured and would like a button for your blog, 
please copy and paste the code below:

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Brief Bits

Aack!  I know!  TWO Brief Bits in one week.  :)  Just cleaning up my files, so that I can start sharing fewer links per Brief Bits post.  To make each one a little more digestible.  

Anyway... here's a super-quick round-up of what I've found on the web recently that got my creative juices flowin':

1.  From The Sisters Cafe - Mom's Barbeque Brisket
I grew up in Texas, and brisket is one of my favorite foods (no surprise).  Other recipes I've seen for brisket take days to prepare.  This delicious one is slow-cooked for 5 hours.  Can't wait to give it a try!

2.  From Sugar City Journal - Making Memories with Grandparents Gift
Are your parents hard to buy for?  Mine can be.  I LOVE this idea of giving the grandparents a booklet full of activities to enjoy with their grandchildren, rather than buying them more stuff.  So clever!

3.  From Between Cottage & Cabin - Soup in a Jar Favor/Gift Idea
I've seen and received lots of cookies in a jar... but I really like this idea to give a soup in a jar.  A little more unique, and healthier for the recipient.  :)

4.  From Just a Girl - New Neighbor Gift
She makes me want to move in next door to her!  Such a cool welcoming idea for new neighbors - thoughtful AND useful.

5.  From My Kitchen Cafe - Lemon and Garlic Grilled Chicken
Pretty sure I'll be testing this dish out sometime this next week.  My mouth is watering!

6.  From How Does She? - German Chocolate Drizzle Cake
German Chocolate is my all-time favorite cake.  There's something about that coconut...  This completely-from-scratch recipe looks deeee-vine!

7.  From My Computer is my Canvas - Safe to Eat Raw Cookie Dough Recipe
Cookie Dough + Chocolate Covering - Risk of Salmonella = YUM!

8.  Custom Photo Lunchboxes
Such a clever idea!  Plus, you'd never have to worry about it ending up in the lost & found - your kids' picture could be on it.  :)

9.  From Alphamom - Free Printable Lunchbox Notes, Tags, & Stickers
Cute notes to attach to fruit, plus fun templates you can customize with your own little message.  So sweet!

10.  From Knock-Off Wood - Closet Doors
This site makes me wish I was handier with a hammer and a nail and a saw and a sander...  Such a smart idea to add additional storage to the back of closet doors!  Think of how clutter-free your kid's room could be.

11.  From The Pleated Poppy - Purse Organization
I'm switching from a diaper bag to a purse, and I'm not much of a purse-carrying girl anyway.  Just need to carry the essentials from here on out for me and Connor, and I really liked this post's idea of compartmentalizing all the stuff that has to go inside a purse with pouches.  (And I'm already on the hunt for cute ones on Etsy.)

12.  From Blank Pages - Name Mobiles
LOVE this idea to create a mobile for the wall of your child's name - completely customizable and so cute!

13.  From The House of Wood - DIY City Chic Artwork
Subway art is all over the internet these days, and I must admit I'm not a huge fan of a lot of it.  However, I really like this version!  It's clean, it's simple... and the best part is its authenticity - making it about locations that mean something to you.  (And, I love it because it doesn't require a Cricut/Silhouette machine, painting or vinyl applications!)

14.  From Decor Chick - Pantry Carousels
Prepare to covet this pantry!  First of all, I wanted it when I saw it was a walk-in (mine is barely a closet), but then she added those lazy susans.  To.die.for.

15.  From How Does She? - Friend Board
Another interpretation of subway art.  My favorite part of this project is the sentiment behind it... such a sweet and thoughtful gift for someone/a family that means a lot to you.  This is a great gift idea.

16.  From Creations by Kara - Outback Chicken
My favorite dish at Outback Steakhouse is their Alice Springs Chicken.  This knock-off recipe looks like it could give the original a run for its money.  YUM!

17.  From Martha Stewart - Pumpkin Pillows
How adorable are these?!?  I wish I knew how to sew well enough to make them...  {sigh.}

18.  From Creations by Kara - Pizza Factory Breadsticks
I fondly remember lunches at the Pizza Factory in Utah, dining on salad bar and their delicious bread sticks.  I'm definitely going to have to give this recipe a try!

19.  From Keep Home Simple - Easy Fall Garland
LOVE this little garland - such a great idea!  I'm totally going to attempt one of my own to add to my fall decor.  Have I mentioned before how much I love fall??

20.  From Home Design with Kevin Sharkey - Oreo Cake
How stunning is this Oreo cake??  Would make a great addition to a party, and I love how they set out milk on the same table.  I want to try this some day myself.

So, there you have it... 20 great finds. I hope something here inspires you, too!

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Brief Bits

Apparently I was a wee bit hungry when I collected links for this edition of Brief Bits.  Oh well...  new recipes are one of my favorite things!  Here's a quick round-up of what I've found on the web recently that got my creative juices flowin':

(Click on the image above to make it larger.)

1.  From My Kitchen Cafe - Grasshopper Ice Cream Pie
Mint chocolate chip ice cream is one of my all-time favorite flavors.  This pie looks divine, and I especially like how she created her garnish out of Andes mints - so clever!

2.  From The Cook Next Door - Orange Chicken
If I visit Panda Express, my order is always a double order of Orange Chicken... I can't help myself!  This recipe looks relatively simple for creating that complex Orange flavor.  Can't wait to whip this one up!

3.  From Made by Joel - Toddler Stilts
This dad is F.u.n.  Check out his idea for stilts for his little ones before they're ready for the tin can variety.  So clever!

4.  From The Pioneer Woman - Grilled Chicken with Lemon Basil Pasta
I love citrus flavors with poultry!  This recipe looks super tasty.

5.  From Blue Cricket Design - Junk Food Sushi
I don't eat sushi...  have no interest to even try it.  (I don't really even eat seafood - at least not inland.)  But, Brian lurves sushi... with a PASSION!  And, it's a good thing he travels so much, and has a per diem - because that's about the only way he'd be able to indulge (I don't find the cooked items at sushi bars/Japanese restaurants to be all that tasty either).  Check out this fun "sushi" idea from Blue Cricket Design - this is definitely one version I'm willing to give a try!    

6.  From Dandee - Miniature Memory Game
Connor's requiring more activity toys when we're out and about these days, and I just loved this idea for a super-portable memory game.  So cute!

7.  From Tasty Kitchen - Banana Split Ice Cream Cake
Another recipe this week for a banana split ice cream cake.  Hmmm...  looks divine!!

8.  From I Can Teach My Child! - Letter Boxes and Scavenger Hunt
Here's a clever idea to upcycle the bajillion baby food containers we go through around here.  In the version I'm making, I'll be adding numbers and colors.  I'm considering collecting the items for the containers myself, and making it into a matching-type game... miniature little items.  Thanks for the idea that got me brainstorming!

9.  From Apartment Therapy - DIY Paper Blossoms
Oh, if I had a little girl's room to decorate!  I LOVE this idea for creating cherry blossoms out of tissue paper and branches... so CUTE!

10.  From Picky Palate - Snickers Caramel Cheesecake Cookies
These look heavenly!  I die!  Just need to confirm that I own a muffin top pan...

11.  From Just Cook Already - Ham & Cheese Sliders
I'm for sure visiting the deli counter the next time I go grocery shopping - I have to give these a try!

12.  From Simply Radiant - Happy Yellow Day
Stephanie's son Creed, has a favorite color... YELLOW!  I adore this idea she had of making an entire day about his favorite color - from the clothes to the food to the activities - just magical.  Check out what she did for RED day here. 

13.  From Tasty Kitchen - Lemon Raspberry Bars
The basic ingredient list alone on these goodies ensures they've got to be tasty!  Adding these to my file...

14.  From Eat at Home - Crockpot Italian Beef Sandwiches
If you live in Chicago, hot dogs, deep dish pizza, and Italian beef are their own food group!  "Homemade" Italian beef sandwiches constitutes cracking open a tub of Papa Charlie's.  Which is yummy and all, but not nearly as affordable as this recipe looks.  I'm going to have to give this one a try!

15.  From Infarrantly Creative - Game Board Storage Art
This idea...  this is the whole reason I want a functional game room in my next house.  Such a clever idea to use the game boards as art, while keeping all the game pieces in baggies behind the board.  LOVE IT!

16.  From b3 Home Designs - Modged Bird Plates
Such a cute project... and one completely within my limited crafty skill set!  Love this idea of mod podging silhouettes onto simple white plates.  Hmmm... there's a silhouette I happen to adore that would make a super cute plate...

So, there you have it... 16 great finds. I hope something here inspires you, too!

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Brief Bits

This is what happens when I get busy... too many good things to share! My remarks will be short, but here's a quick round-up of what I've found on the web recently that got my creative juices flowin':

(Click on pic above to see it larger.)

1.  From Diary of a Quilter - Quilted Table Runner
I need something new on my kitchen table.  The current piece is tired.  I'd love to pull off one of these to sit beneath a potted plant.

2.  From pinksuedeshoe - A Little [Embroidered] Love Note
So adorable!  Love how she even stitched on the notebook paper lines.  {sigh.}

3.  From Maggie Muggins Designs - Chalk Mat with Storage Pocket
Fun idea for a "quiet" toy!  Great and easy-to-follow tutorial, too.  Grandma Rogers??  ;)

4.  From Make It and Love It - Raspberry Lemonade Slushy
This looks so refreshing for a hot summer day!  Definitely want to try making these drinks.

5.  From Spearmint Baby - Children's Bathroom
Click over to see this photo larger...  such a chic space!  Love the trough sink with the board & batten.  The bright pop of teal is so much fun!

6.  From Megity's Handmade - Butterfly and Rocket Chandeliers
LOVE these...  gives me ideas for other motifs, even.  So cute!

7.  From Giver's Log - Anniversary Box
This is a post about one of her sponsors, but I love the idea of this gift for a wedding... or even a baby shower.  Have the guests write notes, words of wisdom, well wishes to be opened one at a time on each anniversary.

8.  From Apartment Therapy - Magnetic Map Board
I've been thinking I need a magnetic board, and I really like this idea.  Just mod-podge a map on a piece of metal... OKAY!  This would be a great piece in an office or even a little boys' room.

9.  From Tatertots & Jello - Make Giant Bubbles
As a kid, I remember attempting something like this one summer.  So much fun!  Going to keep this idea for the years to come.

10.  From eighteen25 - Lunch Box Love Notes
I hope to be one of those moms that sends notes in their kids' lunches.  Cute, free printable for your own lunch box loveys available on her post.

11.  From Moda Bake Shop - Faux Cami & Shannon Makes Stuff - Plunging Neckline Cover-Up
I have a few camis that I employ on those low-necked shirts, but this clever idea sounds even better - the coverage without the hot layers.  So genius!

12.  From Creations by Kara - Framed Monogram
I have a soft spot for monograms these days.  Love her idea to mount an open frame around a monogram on the wall - makes it so much more serious and permanent... and fills in more of the wall! 

13.  From Our Humble A{Bowe}d - Weekend Painting: Custom Artwork
I love this idea... painting leaf silhouettes on a board (or even canvas) to create a custom piece to hang in your home - modern, simple...  I love it!

14.  From Picky Palate - Chocolate Cake S'Mores Cookies
Do I need to say s'more?  YUM!

15.  From According to Kelly - Mason Jar Cupcakes
Such an adorable gift idea!  Would make cute Christmas or Valentine's gifts.  I'm thinking that a single cake mix would give you enough for 12 mason jar cupcakes in 8 oz. jars.  I LOVE ideas that are easy to mass produce!

16.  From Mrs. Bettie Rocker - Pecan Chicken
This 5-ingredient dish looks delicious!  Definitely in my to-be-tried file.

17.  From Yesterday on Tuesday - Banana Split Ice Cream Cake
Cake + Banana Split = heaven!  Sounds like the perfect birthday treat!

18.  From My Authentic Blend of 23 Flavors - Baby Name Sign
Talk about taking a cute idea and making it your own...  an even better idea.  My favorite part is the orange letter "a"... too cute!

19.  From Craft Cuts - Wood Wall Letter Tiles
As soon as I figure out which words I want to spell out, I'm going to order myself some of these.  Available in sizes from 3" - 9" square.  They'd make a great piece for a family room or game room.

20.  From The Purl Bee - Little Boy's Tie & From Say Yes to Hoboken - Simple Toddler's Bowtie
Adorable and simple tutorials to make custom neckwear for your little guy!

21.  From Ohdeedoh - Amazing Animal Coat Rack
One of my favorite ideas ever!  How cute is this??  I'll likely be chopping apart some brand new animals to pull it off for the next rendition of Connor's room.

22.  From Make it Do - Lovely Hair Clip Flowers
How sweet are these little clips??  Love it!  Looks easy to do, too.  Great way to pull a little outfit all together.

23.  From Simply Modern Mom - Homemade Cream Puffs
My mouth won't stop watering over these!  Divine!

24.  From Little Apartment on the Prairie - Baby Food Jar Light Strand
We go through a lot of baby food jars in this house.  And, while they get recycled, I still feel a bit guilty just throwing them out every day.  LOVE this idea to up-cycle them into something pretty!

25.  From Deck the Halls of Home with JOY - Quilt Bulletin Board
This is a great idea for saving a ratty quilt, or "preserving" a keepsake.  This has got me wondering how much of my Grandma's quilt is left (which was shared into pieces by her children after she passed).

26.  From Kara's Korner - You've Got Mail: Holder
Every home needs an "exit strip" like this one.  So clever!  Now, if only I had an actual mud room...

So, there you have it... 26 great finds.  {whew!}  I hope something here inspires you, too!

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Brief Bits

Here's a quick round-up of what I've found on the web recently that got my creative juices flowin':

1.  From Pioneer Woman - Raspberry Cream Pie
My oh my!  This looks divine... she had me at Oreo crust.

2.  From Giver's Log - Glow Cones I & II
Such a fun summer night activity!  Glow rings and flavored ice... love it!  Would make for a great camping-in-the-backyard activity.

3.  From Our Humble Abode - Kids' Canvas Art
Love this idea of permanent finger painting turned wall art.  Definitely want to commission some Connor creations in the near future!

4.  From Crap I've Made - Flat Iron Travel Pouch Tutorial
Oh, how I could use one of these!  Bags can't get packed until that blasted flat iron cools down... so something like this would totally speed up my getting-out-the-door-to-travel routine.

5.  From Bare Feet on the Dashboard - Doily Wall Art
Love this idea to take ordinary, retro doilies and turn them into modern, graphic wall art.  An inexpensive project, too.

6.  From Clean Mama - Freezer Inventory
I'm sure I'm not the only one with a black hole in her freezer.  It's fairly organized, but I can never remember day-to-day or month-to-month or year-to-year {gasp!} what's inside.  I've tried just keeping a list, but it gets written up and never revised.  Seeing this idea of hanging a simple white board alongside your freezer was a light bulb moment for me!  Target, here I come...

7.  From Tasty Kitchen - Lazy Chicken
I like the name of this one!  I liked it even more when I saw that you can start with frozen chicken breasts... that's my kind of cooking - no thawing necessary.  Yum!

8.  From Penny Carnival - Book Sling
Right now, Connor has a couple of small board books in his crib.  This gives him something to do, to keep from getting too bored, when he's up at gosh-awful hours.  I really like this idea of book storage to hang on the side of a child's bed... so clever!

9.  From eighteen25 - Clock Collection
I'm a big fan of interesting clusters on the wall... and I really like her idea of clocks.  Sure, it'd be a pain once daylight savings time comes, but I think it would look so awesome, it would all be worth it!  I could even see this going up a stairwell, too...  hmmm....

10.  Baby Smash!
There are programs you can shell out $20+ for that will do the same thing...  but this one is free.  FREE!  Connor is obsessed with anything electronic and all things with buttons, so the computer is one expensive magnet that draws him in.  Occasionally, we'll indulge him and fire up Baby Smash - he gets to pound on the keyboard, and the computer and its priceless files stay intact.  Check it out!

11.  From Petit Elefant - Frozen Grape Snack
I purchased green grapes this week, just so I could give it a try.  Sounds so refreshing!

12.  From Little Miss Momma - Button Headband Tutorial
Such a cute idea!  A nice alternative to hair clips... love it!

13.  From Creations by Kara - Chili's Monterey Chicken
I haven't tried this dish at Chili's myself, but just from the looks of the recipe, I bet it's delicious!

14.  From Ruffled - Printable Alphabet Bunting
I've been wanting to make a fabric bunting for like ever.  But, no time with a toddler... and my mother hasn't taken enough pity on me yet.  ;)  Check out this adorable free printable!  This will definitely satisfy my taste for a bunting... for at least a little while.  

15.  From Little Birdie Secrets - Eclair Dessert
This looks scrumptious... and so easy, too!  I'll definitely be giving this one a try.

So, there you have it... 15 great finds. I hope something here inspires you, too!

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Brief Bits

Still plugging away on my book, but I do have some cool things I want to share.  Here's a super-quick round-up of what I've found on the web recently that got my creative juices flowin':

1.  From Ohdeedoh - Introducing IKEA Duktig Play Food
Who said play kitchens and play food were only for little girls??  One day, Connor might get his very own set, and I adore this soon-to-be-released version by IKEA.  Not only is it really cute, the price is just right to make me not want to attempt making felt food myself.  See Ohdeedoh for the sneak peek on the play food, but for the other items in the Duktig series (including their fun little kitchen set), go here. 

2.  From Young House Love - Framed House Keys & Memento Jars
Love their ideas for keeping and displaying everyday objects that have special meaning!  Shadowbox the house keys of every place you've lived... Take small keepsakes from various trips and events and display them inside inexpensive Bell jars.  Genius!

3.  From Sew Totally Smitten - Sponge Ball Water Fights
Very fun idea to make reusable sponge balls from basic cleaning sponges for your backyard water fights.  Sounds more spontaneous than filling water balloons every time!

4.  From On-Hand Modern via Oh Happy Day - Helium Balloon Party Invitations
I don't think I've ever seen a cuter invitation idea than this one.  Ever.

5.  From mmmcrafts - Tooth Fairy Pillows
I have a few years yet, but I totally want to try my hand at making a boy version of these adorable tooth fairy pillows.

6.  From Picky Palate - Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Layered Krispie Treats
The name of the recipe really says it all... YUM.

7.  From Sugar Bee: Craft Edition - Furnkies (Peanut Butter Bars)
Another tried-and-true that I'm definitely going to have to give a try myself!

8.  From Pioneer Woman - Grilled Chicken with Lemon Basil Pasta
I must have been hungry when I saved all of these...  here's something delicious for dinner.  She had me a lemon pasta.

9.  From Lemon Tree Creations - Hand-stitched Mailbox Set
One of the highlights of Connor's day right now is checking the mail.  Oh how he would love this little set!  I just need to find the time...

10.  From Just Cook Already - Chocolate Pudding Cake
More food... more chocolate.  Simple and classic, and definitely breakfast-worthy!  ;)

11.  From Make It Do - Becky's Lovely Mint Lemonade Slush
Mint + lemonade = divine refreshment.  I.must.try.this.

12.  From Holidash - Felt Dahlia
This tutorial is for a brooch... but I want to do up some of these to hang on the wall... like on 12x12 plaques.  Would be so pretty in the bathroom, no?

13.  From A Few of My Favorite Things - Baby Clothing Art
Fun idea to make keepsakes from your child's baby clothing.  So simple!

14.  From Oh So Crafty - Ruffled Pillow
Love how she re-purposed old shirts to make this fun pillow cover.

15.  From Kitchen Klique - Ribbon Organization
Right now, my ribbon stash is in a plastic shoe box.  Boring...  I'd bet I would remember better what I already had if I stored them on pants hangers.  Genius!

So, there you have it... 15 great finds. I hope something here inspires you, too!

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