ME?....IN A BIKINI?....I DON'T THINK SO!

Lets face it, most of us, especially those of us that are, say, over the age of 40, DO NOT belong on ANY beach in a bikini! Me, personally.....well lets just say my body needs a little time at the gym....lets rephrase that....a LOT of time at the gym before I would feel comfortable leaving the four walls of my bedroom in even a one piece swimsuit.

Take the cute designs here, for example. See that adorable little blue two piece one there with the ruffles across the butt? Well, I don't know about you, but the LAST thing that my butt needs is more attention! And it certainly does NOT need any added accessories such as ruffles for god sake!! Don't get me wrong, its really cute alright, but do ANY of us really want to draw more attention to our derriere? And lets not forget the cute little price tag that goes with all those ruffles. The top alone is $88.00, and those little ruffled "Ava Gardner" bottoms, well they will set you back another $98.00 alone! Now take a good look at that cute little polka dot two piece there. Yes, it's quite fashionable. Yes, it would look great on someone about 110 pounds with NO cellulite and great abbs, but get this.....it has a price tag of $380.00!!! Yep, that's right girls, that's 380 smackaroo's!! For me to justify to myself, not to mention to my husband spending that kind of money on that small of an amount of fabric, I would have to have the body of...lets say......CENTERFOLD quality!!! Moving right along..... we now come to the black and white striped one piece beauty there. Now THAT one I really like. Yeah, back 20 years or so ago, I would sport one of those cute little bikini's that were small enough to have made out of a hankie, but even then, my butt didn't need to be emphasized by ruffles!! Now days, after having two children, becoming a grandmother, a YOUNG grandmother, but a grandmother non the less, my body would laugh histarically at me if I even thought about a bikini. This little black and white number, however, I think I could pull off. It is very classy, has just the right amount of conservativeness, yet would be flattering to most any figure. Yes, it is still a little pricey (to my standards anyway) at $177.00, but considering the price of the other two, it is not so bad, not to mention that you get a little more fabric for your money with this one!! Now the pretty green one here is, I guess the most conservative one in the bunch, yet is very fashionable and another one that I would consider wearing out in public these days. The price tag on this one is right up my alley too, with it running only $88.00. Isn't it amazing that the ones with the LEAST amount of fabric cost MORE than the ones with MORE??? Oh, and did I mention that this particular bathing beauty is sold at "J. Crew" ? HMMMM!! Wonder if we will see our First Lady, Mrs. Obama sporting this one this summer??

HOORAY FOR AWARDS!!!

One of my very best bud's, Veronica over at "of Mice and ramen" has honored me once again today with two special awards. "the blooger buddy" award and the "zombie chicken" award". Really Veronica, you shouldn't have!!! Somehow she always knows how to brighten my day! If you have not visited her blog, PLEASE......I beg you to stop in on her over at "of Mice and ramen" because this girl ROCKS!! She has the most AMAZING pictures that you will EVER see and she will crack you up with her antics and good spirits! It's always a pleasure to visit her! Thanks so much Veronica for these two wonderful awards! Once again, I am HONORED!! I will pass these awards on to some other great gals that deserve them! And will try my very best to do these fab awards justice!!

I guess I do need to let you in on the "wrath" of the Zombie CHicken award! So here goes.....The blogger who receives this award believes in the Tao of the zombie chicken - excellence, grace, and persistence in all situations, even in the midst of of a zombie apocalypse. These amazing bloggers regulary produce content so remarkable that their readers would brave a raving pack of zombie chickens just to be able to read their inspiring words. As a recipient of this world-renowned award, you now have the task of passing it on to at least 5 other worthy bloggers. Do not risk the wrath of the zombie chickens by choosing unwisely or not choosing at all.....

I too fear the wrath of those two chickens, so I am passing this award on to at least five wonderful bloggers that I feel really deserve it!

Erin

PLEASE......NO ELBOWS ON THE TABLE!

Okay, WHERE is it exactly that you draw the line? In the few years now that I have tried my hand at teaching Andrew proper table manners, it seems that there are a few of them that never really are remembered somehow! I came across this delightful book by Emily Post a while back while visiting a local bookstore and have found that it is really very helpful in teaching basic as well as not so basic table manners to your little ones. As she points out in this wonderful book, the suggestions here are not just for fancy parties and dinner at grandma's house. It's basic information you can teach your children to use every day to improve their social life. I don't know about you, but I have had a really hard time trying to convince Andrew that being GROSS is not a GOOD thing! Like any typical six year old, the more disgusting you can be, the better! So when I tell him that it is not nice to chew his food up and then open his mouth and show it to his cousin, Hailee, because it's GROSS, well, he just laughs and does it again, because after all, he WANTS it to be gross! I then try to explain to him that being GROSS is not a GOOD thing while at the dinner table. We DO NOT put our elbows on the table , we DO NOT chew our food with our mouths open, we Do put our napkins in our lap, we Do say please when asking for more of something, we DO say excuse me when we belch (accidently of course),etc..... are all of the things I have tried to teach him over and over and I must say that for the most part he has done pretty well. I have found the "Table Manners for Kids" book quite helpful in at least convincing Andrew that I am not "making table manners up", that there is actually a BOOK on the subject and that other moms and dads DO have these rules at their homes too (although he swears his friend Mattox's mom would NEVER actually make him use a napkin)! Oh, there are still the occaisional times that he "forgets" (conveniently) and finds it hilarious to slurp spaghetti noodles up through a straw, or fling a pea or two across the table at Hailee when I'm not looking, but for the most part he sits up straight (when I remind him), he uses his napkin to wipe his mouth (when he catches me giving him "the look" as he starts to use his sleeve instead), and says please and thank you ( when I pretend not to hear him when he says "pass the potatoes" instead), I guess the real test of how well I have done will be when he takes a girl out on a date in the future and remembers NOT to show her his half eaten food while sharing a nice dinner together! I only hope I live long enough to bask in my triumph!!

Erin

MANNERS.......OH MY!

KREATIV BLOGGER AWARD

There are so many wonderful ladies that I have met through my blog, and one in particular has been gracious enough to present me with a sweet award this morning. Jerri, over at Simply Sweet Home was very kind to pass on to me the Kreativ Blogger Award. I really appreciate the nice gesture and feel honored. There are times that I don't really feel all that creative while writing, but if I can make one person smile with a funny story, or make one person feel good inside with a nice comment, I guess that's all that really matters, isn't it? My hope is that I can leave at least one person that's visited my blog each day feeling better about their day ahead, and if I can do that, then that's wonderful!!!....I've accomplished my goal and I feel good knowing I made someone smile! So thank you Jerri for the terrific award. YOU have made MY day today!!

EARTH DAY .......AMAZING GOODIES

Earth Day is becoming more and more recognized these days and I think that it's a good thing. Maybe we should consider making it a National Holiday that is a mandatory "day off from work" day. Yep, I think that our world, and at least our country would be better off if we all took a day off once a year and planted a tree, cleaned up litter in our community, or volunteered with a local organization to better our eco system for ONE day. Just think about all the newspapers and magazines we read and throw in the garbage, or all of the sodas and water we drink from plastic bottles that we toss away. Well, take a look at these wonderful (not to mention, fashionable) purses. Guess what? They are made from old rolled up recycled newspapers! That's right, and aren't they beautiful? Green Veranda, an online store that focuses on products that are made from recycled newspaper specializes in trendy, fashionable, stylish purses. However, they also carry many other wonderful items made from the same products. Each item is handmade and often takes the designer 1 to 2 full days per purse, making each one unique. The products offered are designed by Green Veranda in conjunction with a co-op of 32 women located in Brazil. They believe in the global supply chain and say that it's usually the laborer's physically making the products that are paid the least. With a strong belief and involvement in the "fair trade act", they make sure the producers recieve a fair percentage of the total.
Every item that you see at Green Veranda is Eco-Friendly and is guranteed to change the life of someone. For every item sold, Green Veranda will plant a tree in the USA. In addition, you have the option of selecting a non-profit organization which will recieve 10% of their profits for the sale.
Green Veranda was created out of a life long dream of one very special woman to do something about the social and environmental condition of our planet. The founder, Denise Marques,realized that she was not alone in her purpose. Thus, the birth of her company which is based on principles such as Saving Our Planet, Fair Trade, and Giving Back.

It takes a brave person to to truly realize that our world needs a change. It also takes a brave person to act and make a difference.

It's your choice.

Let's do it together! Choose Green Veranda! Choose Green for life! And still show off your good taste!

Denise Marques

Please go check out Green Veranda at www.greenveranda.com. You will be utterly amazed at the handwork of the wonderfully talented women of Brazil.

Happy Earth Day!!!!

Erin

FABULOUS KIDS BIRTHDAY CAKES

I always love making Andrew and Hailee's birthday cakes instead of ordering a premade one from the bakery or grocery store because I have so much fun with it. I must admit that I don't always have as much time as I would like to spend on them, but I do the best I can with the time I do have. In February, I made a "pirate ship" cake for Andrew's 6th birthday and it really turned out cute. I just used my imagination pretty much and went to the dollar store and picked up a package of plastic pirates (there was even a cannon, barrels, and flags in the pkg.) for decorating the cake with. I baked a sheet cake, cut it into the appropriate looking pieces, and played around with stacking it, etc... until I got it the way I wanted. I took wooden shish-ka-bob skewers from the kitchen and snipped off the pointy end, and made paper flags, poked the skewers threw and stuck in the "ship" cake. I used brown frosting for the sides of the ship and ran a knife through it to get the "woodgrain" effect. Andrew, as well as everyone else at the party loved it. Last year it was a "race car" cake, the year before was a "John Deere tractor" cake (that one was amazing, I must say) with the farm, barn and all. I even made the top of the cake looked "plowed" just like a field with rows of "planted" veggies (which were actually candy corn(orange) pushed into the frosting "dirt" with a little green frosting piped on top to resemble carrots, rows of "cabbages" were also "planted in the frosting "dirt" using the same green frosting piped in little swirls to resemble tiny cabbages. Needless to say, it was a big hit at the party, and almost too cute to cut! For Hailee's 4th birthday last year, she requested a "tea party" themed birthday party, so I thumbed through the "birthday cake cook book" to get some ideas. There wasn't a teapot cake featured in there anywhere, but after looking at a few princess cakes, butterfly cakes, and cute "purse" cakes, I came up with something. It turned out really nice and she loved it. I just basically made a sheet cake, trimmed it into the shape of a tea-pot, with handle, spout, and all, and then had a ball with the frosting and decorations. Using pink frosting for the background, I piped white frosting to outline the tea-pot, and to make the "lid". Adding some glittery sprinkles and fancy (but easy) swirls here and there, it was very cute. I even made a few little "tea cups" and "saucers" with the left over trimmed off cake. It was a big hit at the party and she bragged to everyone that her "MiMi" made it! I was in histarics while watching all those little girls looking at me like I was some kind of "hero" or "celebrity" or something. Hailee's birthday is coming up again in June and I wonder what it will be this year.....a butterfly, a Barbie, a princess.....who knows with her, it could even end up being "Spider Man". LOL!! I really like this doll house one and think I will show it to her to see what she thinks. It reminds me a little of a "gingerbread house, except decorated a little different. Anyway, I came across these cute ones and thought I would share them with everyone. If you check out the Parents Magazine website, you will find these two along witha few more and they even provide step by step instructions (and a video) of how to make them. So head on over and try one for your little ones next birthday party. He or she will think you are "the greatest" and you too could become a "celebrity" for the day at their big bash!


Erin

GEORGIKIDS SPRING FLING SALE

Okay, I keep telling myself that I am going to focus more on my etsy shop on this blog and share all of my creations with everyone, but until now it seems that I have been so excited about featuring other interesting and fun things, that I have neglected my poor little boutique. I truly have some really cute things to show off to you all too, so I've decided that today, I will feature some sweet Spring outfits that I have made recently and show them off a little. Oh, and also offer them to everyone at a fantastic price this week.

Thats right! Georgikids is having a sale this week and it's a big one! Almost everything in the shop is marked down for this Spring Fling event. If you haven't visited my shop over at Etsy, please take the time this week to pop in and take advantage of some real bargains on cute Spring custom boutique clothing for your little ones. I have added some sweet new outfits to the collection and will be adding even more wonderful items all week long (with equally great prices)! This sale is only through Friday, so don't miss out. I also take custom orders, so if you have something in mind that is not in my shop, just let me know and I will be happy to make it to order at a super duper price! I can make any item listed in boys or girls and in infant through size 6x. All items can also be made into your choice of shorts, bloomers, capri's, long pants, or jumpers at no extra charge. And don't forget, with any order totaling $25.00 or more, you receive a free hair accessory of your choice. How great is that??? I even ship international, so head on over there and check out the adorable outfits I've made for the Spring. I think you will enjoy yourself and it may just put you in the mood for Summer! Thanks so much!

Erin

GIVE YOUR BODY A TREAT

If your like me, you love wonderful smelling and skin silkening bath soaps. Even though most of us mama's rarely have the opportunity to indulge ourselves with an hour of our very own to relax in a nice hot tub without the bathroom door being continuously banged on with a little voice on the other side crying out.....mommy, what are you doing?, I'm thirsty, can I come in?, I can't find my doll.....you get the picture, We do want the little time that we do have to be as enjoyable as possible. Well, a very good friend of mine, Johnette, over at FlintRiver Soaps makes the most luxurious, skin softening, glorious smelling bath goodies and is kind enough to have sent me a few to try out. Each one is cold pressed and handcrafted to make the most of your bathing experience. They ALL smell wonderful and I can truly say that I love the way they make my skin feel. The Fromme Pear is lightly fruity and fresh smelling and is one of my favorites. I also love the Lime in D Coconut scented one. It turns your bath into a "tropical experience". All you need is a Pina' Colada in your hand, some good beach music playing, and you will be transformed to the Caribbean while in your bath tub. I must say that I was hesitant to try the Banana Pudding soap she sent me for fear my hubby would take one smell of it and be chasing me around the house with a spoon and a can of whipped cream!LOL! Being a southern girl though and loving banana pudding, I had to try it. It was so dreamy feeling and the fragrance was incredible, with a very subtle smell of banana, and it felt wonderful on my skin. I have to admit I was surprised, but pleasantly with that one. I have since visited her etsy shop and have picked out several other luxurious soaps that I want to order. If you haven't visited FlintRiver Soaps over on Etsy, please do. You will find a treasure of yummy scented soaps to choose from and Johnette is offering a buy 3 bars, get 1 bar free special this month, so I hope you will stop by her shop and pick some up for yourself, a friend, or as a gift for someone special. I promise you won't be disappointed!

Enjoy!

Erin

GOT TO HAVE IT: GRAFFEETI SNEAKERS

Aren't these so cool? I came across these in Parents Magazine and had to share. As stated in the article, as long as there is is school boredom and pens exist, kids will doodle on anything within reach. One shoe company, thankfully has been paying attention to that fact. Graffeeti Sneakers are kicks that can be drawn on... again and again. Available in low cut or high top style and many different styles, they feature three dry-erasable areas (one on each side and one on the toe) where kids can "channel" their inner artiste, as well as a holster for one of the six colored pens that come with the shoes. What's even cooler is that the pens are specially formulated so the artwork comes off with a simple swipe of the hand and the ink won't stain skin.

The two geniuses behind this concept are civil engineers for the city of Roseville, California, with no background in in fashion or children's apparel whatsoever. They came up with the idea from working with dry erase boards, tossing out too many of their own kid's shoes and being lifelong shoe doodlers themselves. Another great incentive to purchasing a pair of these adorable and fun sneakers are that a percentage of your purchase goes to children's charities. To purchase a pair for your little doodler, go to www.graffeetisneakers.com. Cost for a pair is $41.00 for high tops, and $39.00 for low tops. Oh, and get this... backpacks are now availble with this company using this same concept. What fun! Wish they had them in adult sizes too!!
I know Andrew and Hailee will be begging for a pair.

Erin

ARTISTA - Creative Safari's for Women

Okay girls, this REALLY caught my attention so I had to include you all in this experience. Just think, a safari for US! To create, to express, to unite!! Wouldn't that just be glorious!

Artista safari's is the artistic branch of Manifesta Safari's, offering world premier vacations for Women since 1997. The commitment of this group of fantastic women is to help their guests reach their full potential by providing life altering experiences.

The inspiring location of Carmel-By-The-Sea, was established as a bohemian artist and writers colony after the 1906 San Francisco earthquake. Since then, it's been the home and inspiration for such guests as Jack London, and Ansel Adams. Today's Carmel has that same sense of beauty and and promise.

Carmel-By-The-Sea is breathtakingly beautiful. It speaks to your body and soul. While hiking and and meditating among the rocky cliffs of the Point of Lobos Reserve, which is known as the crown jewel of California parks, the sea air rejuvenates, colors become your palette, and the hues and rhythms recharge your very being.

From the plein air painting festivalsto the Sand Castle Contest, Carmel-By-The-Sea naturally attracts and inspires a wide range of artists and their patrons.

It is said that "Here, fine art is a way of life and here is where we create".

"Carmel's Landmark Hotel since 1029", the Cypress Inn serves as accomodations for everyone that visits. Complete with courtyard, tapas restaurant, and full-service bar serving afternoon tea daily, the Inn is owned and operated by Doris Day and Dennis LeVett.

With just a short walk to the ocean, the Cypress Inn's Mediteranean facade hints of old world charm while making you feel right at home in the intimate lounge or garden courtyard.

Workshops and activities are scheduled throughout the day to best suit your own pace. Classes in Abstract Painting, Impresia Printmaking, and Encaustic Painting are all offered, along with massages, spa experiences, and other activities to enjoy while there.


This experience intrigued me so much and just reading all the details on the website had me wanting to call my travel agent right away. You really have to go visit them on their website to really appreciate all they have to offer. It is amazing!! I think this would be a great "girls" retreat and I personally hope to indulge sometime soon. If you are interested, please visit this fabulous site at Atista-safari's for women and be delighted as much as I was!

Enjoy!

Erin

THE MAYFLOWER INN AND SPA

According to "Good Morning America", this is the #1 spa in America. Located in the idyllic town of Washington, Connecticut, and less than 2 hours from New York City, this wonderful Manor sits amongst the abundant and breathtaking beauty of 58 acres of century old rhododendron, endless trees, and luxuriant grounds. Guests also can enjoy the tranquil beauty of the lush lawn, the contemplative Shakespeare Garden and the meandering paths of the American Poetry Maze which offers superb relaxation and rejuvenation.

The perfect getaway to unwind and relax, this glorious retreat is now offering a stimulas package of it's own to help you shake off the less than positive projections and get you headed in the right direction for 2009. This package is designed for corporate teams to energize and stratigize for the year ahead, however, single packages are available and very much worth the price. The "Mini Luxe Experience" is tailor made for people with limited time who need maximum relaxation. This includes a luxurious two night spa experience.

This fabulous package includes:

* UNLIMITED access to all scheduled classes and activities.
* Accomodations in one of 30 sumptuous rooms or suites.
* Three healthy Spa cuisine meals a day with Personal Spa Advisor Services.
* Treatments and private fitness sessions available on an a'la carte basis.
* warm-up suits
* Logo T-shirts

Two nights from $1,350, normally $1,750 and offered Sunday through Thursday.

Are You ready to sign up?

Erin

EASTER PARTY WINNER

Congratulations goes out to Rhonda over at Giggles and Sugar Kisses. She is the winner of the Georgikids Easter Party giveaway and as the winner, she gets to choose an outfit of her choice from the Georgikids Etsy shop to be custom made for her in the size of her choice. If you haven't visited Giggles and Sugar Kisses, you must stop by, Rhonda has a great blog and she has some great giveaways over there as well! Congrats Rhonda on being our winner and I hope you enjoy your outfit.

Everyone else that visited the Easter Party last week will be receiving "goody bags" filled with yummy and fun stuff, so make sure you get you address e-mailed to me so I get yours in the mail! Thanks to all that came to our party and I hope everyone had a great time! I know I did!!

Erin

UPTOWN BANANA PUDDING

Does this look yummy or what? Down here in the South, we love banana pudding! After seeing this recipe for Banana Cheesecake, I almost drooled! Of course I had to try it and I don't think I've ever eaten anything as good! It is DELICIOUS! Of course mine didn't turn out quite as pretty as the one here in the picture, but it was darn close and everyone loved it! This is the perfect dessert for your Easter feast. It's rather easy to make and even the kids love it! If you like banana's or cheesecake (and who doesn't), than you must try this! You will be amazed at how fast it is gobbled up!

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups finely crushed vanilla wafers
1/4 cup chopped walnuts, toasted
1/4 cup butter, melted
2 large, ripe banana's, diced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons light brown sugar
3 (8oz. pkgs.) cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon coffe liqueur
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Meringue

Preparation:

Combine first 3 ingredients in small bowl. Press evenly into bottom of a lightly greased 9-inch springform pan.

Bake at 350 degrees for 10 minutes. Cool on wire rack.

Combine diced bananas and 1 tablespoon lemon juice in a small saucepan. Stir in 2 tablespoons brown sugar. Place over medium-high heat, and cook, stirring constantly for about 1 minute or just until sugar has melted. Set aside.

Beat cream cheese at medium speed with an electric mixer 3 minutes or until smooth. Gradually add 1 cup granulated sugar, beating until blended. Add eggs, one at a time, beating until blended after each addition. Beat in coffee liqueur and vanilla. Pour into prepared vanilla wafer crust. Spoon tablespoons of banana mixture evenly over top, and swirl gently into cream cheese mixture.

Bake at 350 degrees for 35 - 45 minutes or until center is almost set.

Drop spoonfuls of Meringue gently and evenly over hot filling. (recipe below)

Bake at 400 degreesfor 10 minutes or until meringue is golden brown. Remove from oven, and gently run a knife around the edge of cheesecake in pan to loosen. Cool cheesecake completely on a wire rack. Cover loosely and chill for 8 hours. Release and remove side from pan to serve. Makes approx. 10 - 12 servings. YUM!!

Meringue

3 egg whites
1/4 teaspoon salt
6 tablespoons sugar

Beat egg whites and salt at high speed with an electric mixer until foamy. Add sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, beating until soft peaks form and sugar dissolves (about 1 - 2 minutes).

Enjoy!!

Erin

QUEEN FOR THE DAY!!

I have been honored with the "Queen Blogger Award" this morning and it has made my day! Veronica, the wonderful gal over at " Of Mice and raMen" has kindly passed this award on to me, so many thanks go out to her. You have GOT to drop in on her and say hello. Her blog is terrific and has the most amazing photo's you've ever seen! This sweet lady has also awarded me the "Fan" award and the "Best Blogger Buddy" awards recently, so I am feeling very special today! I too am going to pass these awards on to some of my favorite ladies that I just love! Thank you again Veronica! Your the Best!!

Erin

MUST HAVE EASTER GOODIES

As we all know, Easter is creeping up on us fast, and many of us are finding ourselves scrambling around looking for last minute "basket stuffers". I must admit that I am one of those people and have been dropping in on a few of my fellow Etsians for some handmade goodies that are "one of a kind". I came across some wonderful artisians the last few days and wanted to share a couple of my favorites with you. The first one is THE CUPCAKE GIRLS Etsy shop and do they ever have some CUTE things. I giggled out loud when I saw this cute bunny stuffed inside a carrot. Made of all felt, and measuring in at 5", it's the perfect size for a little one and fits nicely into a Easter Basket. The little bunny even comes out of the carrot for play and has a poofy little tail. Along with this sweetie, THE CUPCAKE GIRLS have lots more adorable little felt items that you will just love, so stop by their shop on Etsy and check everything out. These girls are fabulous!!!You will want to fill your shopping cart full!!

Next I want to tell you all about WHEEZIES! This little Etsy shop really packs a punch! Their adorable scrabble tile necklaces are so unique and well made that you will want to pick up several (not to mention, the price on them is sensational). I just love this cute Peter Rabbit one and it makes a perfect gift for the Easter basket. All you need is a sweet pastel plastic egg to stash it in. Every little girl (or even your big girl) will love wearing this charming scrabble tile necklace all year long. All the necklaces in this wonderful shop are upcycled from real scrabble tiles which makes them one-of-a-kind and oh so charming. With the purchase of this Peter Rabbit tile, you will receive a pretty silver chain free to wear it on, although they do offer several sweet coordinating pastel cords in which to chose from also. The great girls over at WHEEZIES also seal all of their tiles to be water resistant, although they do recommend that you do remove before bathing, showering, or swimming so as to not get them extremely wet since they are not water PROOF! WHEEZIES even packs these wonderful creations in their very own gift box so they are ready to give as soon as they arrive. Please stop by their delightful little shop and pick up an Easter basket full. I'm sure you will love them as much as I do.

HAVE A HOPPY DAY!!!

Erin

EASTER PARTY COCKTAIL

Our Easter Party just wouldn't be complete without a signature cocktail to sip on while bunny hopping! This drink is one you've got to try! It's not only easy to make, but delicious and makes enough to share with a friend or two! So go ahead, whip a batch up and enjoy!

SANGRIA BLANCO

Ingredients:

1/4 cup sugar good white wine (750 milliliters ea.)
3/4 cup loosely packed fresh mint leaves (optional)
1 cup orange liqueur (such as... Grand Marnier)
2-3 cups lemon-lime soft drink, chilled (sprite or seven-up)
2 lemons, thinly sliced
2 oranges, thinly sliced
1 pint fresh strawberries, thinly sliced

Preparation:

1) Bring sugar and 1 1/4 cups water to a boil (this makes a simple syrup)in a saucepan over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat, and let stand 10 minutes.

2) Combine sugar mixture, white wine, and next two ingredients in a large container; cover and chill for 4 hours. Stir in lemon-lime soft drink and next 4 ingredients just before serving. Serve over ice if desired.

Enjoy this with Easter brunch, Easter dinner, or just for yummy refreshment anytime you like!

Erin

EASTER RIDDLES

I hope everyone stopping by the Easter Party today is having lots of fun and picking up some great ideas! Here are some cute Easter Riddles that I came across and thought that you and/or your kids would get a good laugh! Enjoy!!

How do bunnies stay healthy? eggcercise

Why was the rabbit rubbing his head? because he had an eggache


What's the best way to send a letter to the Easter Bunny? Hare mail

Why do rabbits do so well in school? They're experts in multiplication

Why does the Easter Bunny have such a shiny nose? cause his powder puff is on the wrong end

Why did the Easter egg hide? cause he was a little chicken

Why is the Easter bunny the luckiest animal in the world? cause he has four rabbits feet

Knock, knock. Who's there? Lettuce. Lettuce who? Lettuce hide some Easter eggs

What do you call a duck that plays basketball? a slam duck

What did the rabbit say to the carrot? it's been nice gnawing you

Cute, huh? Hope you got a giggle!

Erin

HOT CHICKS FOR EASTER

Maternal instincts come naturally to chickens. If your feeling broody, too, then Spring is the perfect time to begin keeping a clutch of your own.

* With more than a 100 breeds to choose from, there's a hen just right for you. Take your pick from fancy feathered to good layers.

* Space is not a problem. Hens come in two versions: large fowl and bantams, which are a quarter size. Even the smallest garden can keep two hens happy.

* Don't worry about annoying the neighbors - hens don't need a cockerel to lay eggs.

* No eggs will ever taste better than those from your own hens. Not only are they fresher, the yolks are yellower - and the food miles - non existent.

* It takes less than 10 minutes a day to look after your hens, but watching their antics will bring hours of pleasure.

Here are a dozen of my favorite......

The one above is the first mother hen and POULTRY PIN-UP!! Which one will you be taking home for Easter?

GOLDEN GIRL - WELSUMMER

This beauty is like a ray of sunshine -from her bronze feathers down to her yellow stockings. And you've got to love her flower-pot colored legs.

MODEL MUM - BUFF ORPINGTON

A clucky, caring parent who doesn't get in a flap about anything, this matronly birdhas everything under control.

CATWALK QUEEN - SILVER SPANGLED HAMBURGH

The epitome of chicken-chic, this monocrhome madam will strut her stuff around the run. Her pie'ce de're'sistance is her china-white eggs.

A GOOD LAY - RHODE ISLAND RED

Whether you like them "over easy" or "sunny side up", the eggs of this American beauty will be plentiful as she is a egg-ceptional layer.

BUXOM BEAUTY - SILVER-LACED WYANDOTTE

Curvaceous and big-breasted, this voluptuous lady could easily rule the roost. But underneath the designer feathers is a nice-natured mum-to-be.

A BIT OF FLUFF - BLUE FRIZZLE

A bird-brain if ever there was but who could resist this pretty princess? Like all well-groomed ladies, she does'nt like rain - it ruins her hairdo.

FRENCH FANCY - CUCKOO MARAN

Ooh la' la'! This delightful French diva is an elegant belle femme who lays coveted dark-brown oeufs. You'll see little fowl play from this bird.

WORKING GIRL - LIGHT SUSSEX

Often found going cheep, this bird is a popular buy and one of the best layers. She has no trouble tucking away the corn - a size zero she ain't.

TWINKLE TOES - BRAHMA

With her statuesque vital statistics and her finely feathered shoes, this aristocratic dame is at the top of the pecking order.

SHOWGIRL - WHITE SILKIE

She can certainly shake a tail-feather with her fan dancer's plumes and pom-pom hat, but this distinctive good-time girl likes her home comforts.

A GOOD EGG - LAVENDER ARAUCANA

You might not chose her for her looks but she's got a great personality. And her unique true-blue eggs area kitchen-table talking point.

OPEN HOUSE TEA AND EASTER EGG HUNT

Okay, I admit I am a southern girl, and as such, I love to entertain! Down here in the south, we love our iced tea sweet, our chicken fried and our desserts rich. Us southern girls love entertaining and do it in a big way, but there are times that we like things simple, even if we do break out the fine china for "dinner on the grounds".
For Easter Sunday, or even the Saturday before, consider gathering friends and family together for an afternoon of fun. The recipes today are simple yet delicious (and oh so southern) and can be made ahead of time, so plan a brunch on the lawn, a formal dinner outside on the patio, or just a simple, plain picknick lunch on a blanket under a tree. Whether it's setting up a simple folding table and decorating elegantly or throwing a beach blanket on the lawn for the kids to kick back on, it can all be done easily and made special. A little imagination goes a long way, so dig through the drawers and pull out that special linen table cloth, the fine china, or simple pastel paper plates and have fun with it.

Try this recipe and I promise you will give rave reviews!

**CURRIED CHICKEN SALAD TEA SANDWICHES**

**Ingredients:

4 cups cooked chicken, finely chopped
3 8oz. pkgs. cream cheese, softened3/4 cup dried cranberries, chopped.
1/2 cup sweetened, toasted coconut flakes
6 green onions, minced
2 ribs celery, diced
1 (2 1/4 oz.) pkg. slivered almonds, toasted
1 tablespoon curry powder
1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
48 whole grain bread slices

Preparation:

Stir together first 11 ingredients. Spread mixture evenly on one side each of 24 slices of bread; top with remaining bread slices. Trim crusts from sandwiches and cut each sandwich into 4 rectangles with a serrated knife.

How easy was that? And to keep them fresh and moist, just stack sandwiches in an airtight container covered with a sheet of wax paper and then a damp dish towel on top of the wax paper. Cover container with lid and store in frig for up to a a day ahead. Makes about 25 servings.

Enjoy!

Erin

YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED....TO HAVE FUN

**YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED**

What: Georgikids Easter Party

Where: Right here (Georgikids)

When: Monday April 6th thru Friday April 10th

Dress: Casual (come as you are, p.j's welcome)

Bring: Easter basket and a great attitude!

Note: Be prepared for 5 fun filled days of Easter Partying! Great yummy appetizers (recipes); sweet tea, coffee or good ole fashion lemonade (along with some good red wine)and some creative ideas to make your Easter celebration the best, will be served daily! And a party isn't a party without some great treats to take home, so goodie bags filled with all sorts of Easter sweets and treats will be given to each attendee, along with an outfit OF YOUR CHOICE to be given away on Friday to ONE lucky party goer as a DOOR PRIZE!

** Goody bag contents will be posted tomorrow (and you will LOVE them) and each attendee to the party (those who stop by and comment on any of this weeks posts by Friday) will receive one goody bag by mail. Please e-mail me with address to send it to (www.georgikids@yahoo.com).

So come one, come all and have a GREAT time!

Erin

POLKA DOT EASTER BUCKET

This has got to be one of the cutest Easter baskets...er...I mean buckets that I have ever seen! It's hard to believe that it was just a plain ole galvanized metal paint pail not too long ago. With a little sprucing up, look what it has become? And of course, you can do it in any color you want (maybe blue or green or even yellow would be sooo cute).

Here's how you do it:

You need:

Paint pail (available at any hardware or craft store)
White primer paint (spray, that's made for metal)
Pink (or whatever color you like) spray paint
large and small round stickers (available at any craft store)
Fine-detail paintbrush

1) spray bucket, inside and out, with primer. To avoid drips, several thin coats is best. Note: Make sure the white primer is even because this color is going to show up as the "dots" later after the stickers are removed. Allow primer to dry thoroughly (overnight is ideal).

2)Place large and small stickers all over bucket in pattern that you want or just random. Make sure that you place a few to overlap the bucket edge. Firmly press them down around sticker edges to prevent the other pink paint from bleeding underneath.

3)Spray pail with pink paint, being careful not to over spray and cause drips. Applying multiple thin coats is best. Allow to dry thoroughly.

4)Carefully remove the stickers. If paint has bled underneath the stickers, spray a bit of white primer paint onto a paper plate (or anything disposable) and touch up streaks or spots with fine-detail brush.

Now, all you have to do is use your imagination! Tie some pretty ribbon onto handle ( I like the look of several streamers of ribbon tied onto handle at the base on both sides so the streamers "run" down the sides of the pail) or make some cute ribbon bows like in picture out of wired ribbon and attach to handle. Hot gluing some cute ribbon around the top edge of the pail or rick rack would be really adorable too. You can pretty much decorate however you like. Next just add some good ole fashion Easter grass in your choice of color and of course some goodies and there you have it! One sweet Easter Bucket!!

Have fun and don't forget to enter to win the cute outfit from my Etsy shop! Go to FIRST post on Monday April 6th for details!!
Erin

RICE KRISPY EASTER EGGS

Everone loves those sweet and chewy "rice krispy treats" and how fun and easy is this? Whip up that recipe as usual (posted on the box of rice krispies, or I will be happy to e-mail to you) then stuff mixture into those little plastic eggs that are ALL OVER your house this time of year! They mold great into that egg shape and the kids will LOVE them! One recipe goes a long way too, so you can have plenty on hand for friends. TIP: Use food coloring if you like to dye the treats pastel colors. Just a few drops in the mixture while making will do the trick!

ENJOY!!

Erin

***GEORGIKIDS EASTER PARTY AND GIVEAWAY***

With Easter less than a Week a way now, we all are scurrying around making last minute plans for egg coloring, egg hunting, Sunday dinner, etc...so to make life a little easier for everyone this week, I am hosting an Easter Party here at Georgikids all week long. From now through Friday I will be posting how to's and answering questions on everything from simple and delicious Easter recipes, egg coloring tips and fun ideas, tablescapes, and more to help you out.

All you have to do is stop by and grab up goodies for YOUR festivities and no one will ever know where you found all of your wonderful creations. Along with fun activities and ideas to make this Easter the best (and easiest) ever for you, I will be holding a contest and it is sooo easy to enter. All you have to do is post a comment on any of the fun things that I post about all week (the more comments you post, the more chances you have to win because you receive one entry per post)and then post a comment on YOUR blog describing your favorite idea or recipe that you grabbed from my Easter party. On Friday I will be giving away to one lucky winner an outfit of their choice from my Etsy shop. You pick the outfit, the size, the style, etc... and I make it exactly the way you choose and ship it to you absolutely FREE!!!

SO LETS GET READY TO PARTY LADIES!!

ERIN

EASTER EGG TREE

Good morning everyone! Everyone knows Easter is upon us and if your like me, you find yourself scrambling around at the last minute trying to dye eggs with the kids, find the perfect Easter dress clothes for the kids, attending school and church egg hunts with the kids, etc...Well, all this week I have been posting cute ideas, crafts and recipes to help you out a little. In Germany and Austria, it's customary to celebrate Easter by hanging hollow eggs from the branches of trees.Here is a sweet idea for bringing the season indoors and giving a room in your house some holiday cheer. This is a simple technique, and lends a beautiful addition to your mantle, a coffee table, or as a centerpiece on the dining room table for your Easter feast. You are sure to get lots of comments on this gorgeous display and not just from the grown ups!

Fill an Ice bucket (or pail) with floral foam, then insert grass and pussy willow branches. Or place pebbles and water into a vase, and make an arrangement using any type of branches, such as flowering quince, magnolia, forsythia, or cherry blossom.

To thread and hang the eggs, center a slipknot on a length of ribbon, and thread the ribbon ends through a large-eyed needle (or fashion a needle by folding a 12-inch length of 27-gauge wire in half; use the loop end to thread the ribbon). Gently pass the needle through both holes at the opposite ends of the eggs (you will need to take a pin and poke a small hole in each end of egg prior to this step and drain the inside out; these are raw eggs, not cooked) and pull ribbon through. Before inserting the needle, decide which end of the egg will be the bottom; the hole from which the ribbon ends protrude will be the top of your egg (see picture above). Double-knot the the ribbon above and below the egg, then tie the loose ends to a branch with a bow.

Have fun and even let the kids help out a little with this fun project! This may very well become your new Easter tradition. The kids will think of it as the Easter tree they get to decorate every year, just like the Christmas tree in December.
Also, use your imagination. Add some artificial little birds (found in any craft store), maybe paint the branches white or silver (easy to do with spray paint), or even hang some paper bunnies from the branches (just go to Martha Stewart living and download the templates free). The main thing is....HAVE FUN WITH IT!!

Erin