tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11323361378755202612023-11-16T09:47:20.997-08:00Let's Get Caking!Arianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489797588515677730noreply@blogger.comBlogger122125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1132336137875520261.post-70582606651973245632017-04-13T06:16:00.001-07:002017-04-13T17:57:59.728-07:00Improvised Chocolate Fudge Cake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF6Zlvpt0pKg3-U6XjkONvWeHjDc3EbMAZq1oa6iYOFi0iFt12ANbiOvCs7fLLo4C3UIsuaUp-i62QeW5U2sy81TuGVGcfAiW-mMi9UXNVEDc-5XTezK3kNAiDyxAlS4uU-u6l4I0dSx8/s1600/Valerie+Adoption+cake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF6Zlvpt0pKg3-U6XjkONvWeHjDc3EbMAZq1oa6iYOFi0iFt12ANbiOvCs7fLLo4C3UIsuaUp-i62QeW5U2sy81TuGVGcfAiW-mMi9UXNVEDc-5XTezK3kNAiDyxAlS4uU-u6l4I0dSx8/s400/Valerie+Adoption+cake.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Some wonderful friends from church recently adopted four children from Latvia. They are truly amazing parents and people, and are wonderful examples to me of selfless love and service.<br />
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We surprised Valerie with an adoption shower a few weeks before she and her husband would travel to Latvia to bring their children home. I planned to make a chocolate cake with strawberry filling and to decorate it with red and turquoise flowers (since those are Valerie's favorite colors). </div>
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It was a busy week, and I realized the night before that I wouldn't be able to bake and decorate a cake in time. I decided to get a chocolate fudge cake from Sam's Club and then decorate the top myself. I'd had it before and knew it was a delicious cake.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWaejdVZRmimGWWklVWN9gD1EwZfXTTQP8wm6QWi29mNCNncDOqDyCq4DMSvXS4hJp3ZjPEYnUQ8ZgTJ-_-_kp9LTER2fbh2_6eR4ss4SNx-EfPQKum8wniexrBXYhXH-evOugkXEP2Aw/s1600/sam%2527s+club+fudge+cake.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWaejdVZRmimGWWklVWN9gD1EwZfXTTQP8wm6QWi29mNCNncDOqDyCq4DMSvXS4hJp3ZjPEYnUQ8ZgTJ-_-_kp9LTER2fbh2_6eR4ss4SNx-EfPQKum8wniexrBXYhXH-evOugkXEP2Aw/s320/sam%2527s+club+fudge+cake.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.samsclub.com/sams/artisan-fresh-chocolate-fudge-cake/prod4660165.ip"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">https://www.samsclub.com/sams/artisan-fresh-chocolate-fudge-cake/prod4660165.ip</span></a></div>
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I scraped off the chocolate decoration from the middle and then smoothed out the top so that I could have a flat surface to pipe the message on. I made the flowers out of modeling chocolate and Sixlets candies. You can find Sixlets in most grocery stores (near the cake mixes and birthday candles). I love using Sixlets to decorate cakes! They look like pearls, and you can get them in almost any color.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvhPuvGwQ1BttnyMNyXUTr4v7rnaezA85m7PJKMWLNO0L_e9ay4DButC0skLtmwnUTeovz2Kz0SbGDeCvhoLcgSerLQHvfO_3TGUdyaVvYr-FfFyHSosSiKO0BLU-QYVnzrxoN_0Rp4jQ/s1600/blue+sixlets.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvhPuvGwQ1BttnyMNyXUTr4v7rnaezA85m7PJKMWLNO0L_e9ay4DButC0skLtmwnUTeovz2Kz0SbGDeCvhoLcgSerLQHvfO_3TGUdyaVvYr-FfFyHSosSiKO0BLU-QYVnzrxoN_0Rp4jQ/s320/blue+sixlets.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://www.walmart.com/ip/Celebration-Shimmer-Powder-Blue-Sixlets-Candy-1.75-oz/32282501">https://www.walmart.com/ip/Celebration-Shimmer-Powder-Blue-Sixlets-Candy-1.75-oz/32282501</a></span></div>
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This cake was a good reminder to me that it's okay to improvise when things don't go as planned. At first, I felt a little guilty for not actually baking the cake myself, but I shouldn't have. Valerie knows I care about her, and I heard so many people talk about how delicious the cake was, and someone even asked for the recipe later. đ<br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><b>Modeling Chocolate</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222;" /></b><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">Melt 10 ounces of chocolate chips (or candy melts in the color of your choice) in a microwave or in a double boiler. Stir in 2 ounces of light corn syrup. Stir for about a minute until well combined. Spread on waxed paper and allow to cool at room temperature for 2 hours. When cool, break large chunks off and knead until soft. Store in the refrigerator in a ziplock bag for up to a month. Break off small pieces and knead when you are ready to make something with your modeling chocolate. Return to refrigerator for 10-15 minutes if it starts to get too warm and sticky from the heat of your hands.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><b>Royal Icing</b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><b><a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/316888/royal-icing-for-sugar-cookies">http://www.marthastewart.com/316888/royal-icing-for-sugar-cookies</a></b></span></span></div>
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Arianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489797588515677730noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1132336137875520261.post-14937304011235246842016-12-01T11:54:00.001-08:002016-12-01T11:54:45.967-08:00Light the World Bulletin Board<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We wanted to find a way for members of our ward (congregation) to share some of their acts of service. We came up with a bulletin board, where anyone (any age) can write their act of service on a silver star and tape it up. These will be anonymous, and I think it will be so neat to read what others are doing to light the world this Christmas season.</div>
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It's kind of hard to see, but in the bottom left corner is a sign that says, "Share the light you have shared or received." We tacked two small cardboard boxes underneath the sign.</div>
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Box 1: holds a stack of blank silver stars and tape</div>
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Box 2: holds fine-line permanent markers</div>
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It will be fun to watch the board fill up with stars all month long! I'm excited to see how full it is by Christmas!</div>
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Covering the bulletin board ended up being a much bigger project than I anticipated. Mostly because none of the letters, the manger scene, nor the hundreds of silver stars we needed were pre-cut. We drew them on poster board, then cut them out with scissors. I am so grateful to the missionaries and Trish for being good sports and helping me set everything up last night.</div>
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Sister Withers, Elder Gifford, Trish, Bishop Dotson, Elder Mitchell, Sister Young, and my little helper. :)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb1C1_gJ88g3wHiqqdpuHt-ChaBK_k2M0FJw2pCiNQZbG86TPhw68fyWzkymrrVu7fKgocDnt-qjF_eA7lAKyNJJiG9QnivH-SkJj6MiVb2G8YZNO3GAjGHX2qZpEdJs5zn-4kr1cR2l8/s1600/missionaries+trish+helping.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb1C1_gJ88g3wHiqqdpuHt-ChaBK_k2M0FJw2pCiNQZbG86TPhw68fyWzkymrrVu7fKgocDnt-qjF_eA7lAKyNJJiG9QnivH-SkJj6MiVb2G8YZNO3GAjGHX2qZpEdJs5zn-4kr1cR2l8/s640/missionaries+trish+helping.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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These people are seriously awesome, and I'm so grateful to have them in my life. They truly let their light shine!</div>
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Sister Withers, Sister Young, Trish, Elder Gifford, and Elder Mitchell</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDIJLr4UZdcsxBRrYi6PUktIuxWrvQwO5IRYxNJJmAkfmPmsf7xHi-zJzodvJbF-6tAhlvP53F5jT2Drtr74bgEs436L-7QJeUv_gSyKi0UYIAjt1JzW4gswntLUxAavQRKbsITqhl4F0/s1600/missionaries+bulletin+board.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDIJLr4UZdcsxBRrYi6PUktIuxWrvQwO5IRYxNJJmAkfmPmsf7xHi-zJzodvJbF-6tAhlvP53F5jT2Drtr74bgEs436L-7QJeUv_gSyKi0UYIAjt1JzW4gswntLUxAavQRKbsITqhl4F0/s640/missionaries+bulletin+board.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I'm also very grateful for my good friend Martilda, who went shopping with me and helped me pick out decorations for the board. She knows shopping is not my favorite thing, and I was so grateful to have her with me. She also has a great decorator's eye, and put together some beautiful colors and decorations.</div>
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Martilda and Me</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTZj28poZoKPATPvjTtY6TjOXeg2MMV7rWxS1Fy6kGLV3BZVvyRP-kfO3cyfRXdy2KxxDJHdEC3QMKTtfytD5RFyt5s-Imhp1pPzZAUpcOw2-hOxD7QkxVWFeWD-Vk-6nm8LQ5KAGHoHs/s1600/martilda+ariana.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTZj28poZoKPATPvjTtY6TjOXeg2MMV7rWxS1Fy6kGLV3BZVvyRP-kfO3cyfRXdy2KxxDJHdEC3QMKTtfytD5RFyt5s-Imhp1pPzZAUpcOw2-hOxD7QkxVWFeWD-Vk-6nm8LQ5KAGHoHs/s640/martilda+ariana.jpg" width="352" /></a></div>
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<br />Arianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489797588515677730noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1132336137875520261.post-15423379979298206712016-11-30T04:56:00.001-08:002016-11-30T10:24:59.499-08:00Light the World this Christmas!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I first heard about the Light the World initiative a couple of weeks ago, and I have been so excited about it! There are so many ways that we can serve and bring more light into each other's lives. The Savior is the light of the world and showed us the perfect example of how to love and how to serve.<br />
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December 1st (tomorrow) will be a worldwide day of service, and it kicks off the Light the World initiative where people across the globe will follow the Savior by serving others in 25 ways over 25 days. </div>
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I am so excited about this! I know it will make this season even more meaningful as we focus on serving others in the way the Savior did. </div>
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There are some really neat videos and service ideas to go along with each the 25 days of the Light the World initiative. We are going to watch one each night to go along with our family scripture study, and I think it will be a wonderful way to stay focused on the Savior and motivate us to serve.
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Here's a link to the page with short, daily videos about Christlike service:<br />
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<a href="http://mormon.org/christmas">mormon.org/christmas</a><br />
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I will be posting service opportunities I can find in the Dayton, Ohio area throughout December. Let's fill the world with light!Arianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489797588515677730noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1132336137875520261.post-44580162888476880052016-09-15T11:20:00.000-07:002016-10-13T06:18:24.224-07:00Whitney and Joey's Wedding Truffles<div style="text-align: center;">
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Last August, I got to attend my beautiful sister's wedding in the Palmyra Temple.<br />
I am so happy for Whitney and Joey, and grateful to have a new awesome brother-in-law!<br />
They are so great together!<br />
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It started raining while they were having photos taken outside after their weddingâŠ<br />
But, those two wouldn't let a little rain spoil their special day!<br />
They are the cutest couple and so happy!<br />
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I can't help thinking of a certain musical every time I see these photos.<br />
Can you guess which one?<br />
These lyrics might give you a hint...<br />
<span class="s1"><i><br /></i></span><i><b><span style="font-size: large;">The sun's in my heart...</span></b></i><br />
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<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">.<span style="font-size: large;">..and I'm ready for love.</span></span></b></i><br />
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<span class="s1"><br /></span><span class="s1">Did you guess it?</span><br />
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It's...<br />
<span class="s1"><br /></span><span class="s1"><b>Singin' in the Rain!</b></span><br />
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Now that you've got that song stuck in your head, let's talk cake!<br />
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Whitney asked me to make their wedding cake, and her one request was that she wanted it filled with chocolate chip cookie dough filling. Unfortunately, there was no way I could transfer a wedding cake from two states away in the heat of the summer, so we decided I would make truffles instead.</div>
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Their last name begins with a "W," so I decorated the truffles with "W" drizzles.</div>
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...and tiny hearts. :o)<br />
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The white truffles were filled with a peanut butter Buckeye filling.</div>
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You might want to warn people beforehand that these things are addictive,<br />
and they also come with a little kick...No, it isn't alcohol. :o)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The "kick" is cayenne pepper, and it's amazing. Trust me.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinILWBef60RDp6vVpAQJQ3VD8Dzgzf7zEE2mIsUg6gUdqK2biBbS0Td8II9_UoRPZyHKFh8CUkNn9QP4N3obNVEg6AaaFC_GBEZqXbfllcSc3roul_kiQQswMl64gQ9NN1555YiqXz9yA/s1600/White+truffles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="383" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinILWBef60RDp6vVpAQJQ3VD8Dzgzf7zEE2mIsUg6gUdqK2biBbS0Td8II9_UoRPZyHKFh8CUkNn9QP4N3obNVEg6AaaFC_GBEZqXbfllcSc3roul_kiQQswMl64gQ9NN1555YiqXz9yA/s400/White+truffles.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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These chocolate ones are filled with the eggless chocolate chip cookie dough.</div>
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I will link to the recipe at the bottom. It's great as a cake filling, but if you want to be able to roll the dough into balls for dipping, you will need to eliminate the frosting base.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIS4dYNMKtmTOFs-584uXYUy5tlryNL8YMqbhwrWQplzd_TSQXfKDnXPNX-Kjc6VjEOTgMQxyj-Tz2IP4fV09lwNezkYeAoIKEq3Dhiq1kN786yb5fsplNIXFpCr7qG79S_M59IYEHAng/s1600/chocolate+truffles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIS4dYNMKtmTOFs-584uXYUy5tlryNL8YMqbhwrWQplzd_TSQXfKDnXPNX-Kjc6VjEOTgMQxyj-Tz2IP4fV09lwNezkYeAoIKEq3Dhiq1kN786yb5fsplNIXFpCr7qG79S_M59IYEHAng/s400/chocolate+truffles.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Congratulations, Whitney and Joey! And Happy 1st Anniversary!</div>
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<b>STATS: </b></div>
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Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Filling</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.cakecentral.com/recipe/7600/chocolate-chip-cookie-dough-icingfilling">http://www.cakecentral.com/recipe/7600/chocolate-chip-cookie-dough-icingfilling</a></div>
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Peanut Butter Buckeyes - with a kick!</div>
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(The cayenne is listed as an ingredient at the bottom, under "Variation."</div>
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<a href="http://www.jif.com/recipes/peanut-butter-buckeyes-392">http://www.jif.com/recipes/peanut-butter-buckeyes-392</a></div>
Arianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489797588515677730noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1132336137875520261.post-73833497142005375052015-06-19T08:47:00.001-07:002015-06-19T08:49:13.292-07:00Pretty in Blue Cookies<div style="text-align: center;">
My good friend Martilda is expecting her sweet baby boy next month. Of course we needed blue cookies for her baby shower! Blue is also Martilda's favorite color!</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgABnaTmmJ6SffTjUMxDK14K1XfgyHfudGKPwOuxW7oqw0CcCQA1_9nVcgv9J6HAAjLQ3_TiONAG_OT-B13BlP4bC7nRhA4vVk75B04-ITwkxRyhKiq1ti7Nnfx9s3vcNEdTw5fBpdNS2Q/s1600/Martilda.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgABnaTmmJ6SffTjUMxDK14K1XfgyHfudGKPwOuxW7oqw0CcCQA1_9nVcgv9J6HAAjLQ3_TiONAG_OT-B13BlP4bC7nRhA4vVk75B04-ITwkxRyhKiq1ti7Nnfx9s3vcNEdTw5fBpdNS2Q/s640/Martilda.jpg" width="542" /></a></div>
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For the large cookie, I used a small salad plate as a guide to cut out a big circle of dough. I only added a couple of minutes to the baking time. The night before the baby shower, I used <span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">g</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 16px; text-align: start;">lacé</span> icing to flood the cookie with white. The next day, once the icing was set, I used royal icing to pipe the words and to make the brush embroidery flowers. </div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
I love the bright white of the royal icing against the soft white of the<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"> g<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 16px; text-align: start;">lacé</span></span> icing.</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYQUWqaej57PTTBpfPoPgNEfaChktrWk2fuo3YkIs545A1kU-EPBon7gxWvGTXTXUhaQdK000YdecGY1u3gMJjcVZobaPQAsA5Kd6lEtPe1hdEGOmdp9Evid45LTjLPWuecER-HGr92x8/s1600/Martilda1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYQUWqaej57PTTBpfPoPgNEfaChktrWk2fuo3YkIs545A1kU-EPBon7gxWvGTXTXUhaQdK000YdecGY1u3gMJjcVZobaPQAsA5Kd6lEtPe1hdEGOmdp9Evid45LTjLPWuecER-HGr92x8/s400/Martilda1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
The polka dot cookies were decorated using the wet on wet technique with <span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">g</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 16px;">lacé icing</span>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkzM3ngGf7o8r1CB39F4wZbV0wnLKnJCbJjpdS2nm4TiGd3ZBXmdfue-EJxGe3rQwFMw05uUiwvm1T0xv4wzYRQoQk6E8Bjnlxd3R9dPZwKybq98sUoPQ_x8L-GHgxHMpZFVmBFVn5Q_4/s1600/martilda2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkzM3ngGf7o8r1CB39F4wZbV0wnLKnJCbJjpdS2nm4TiGd3ZBXmdfue-EJxGe3rQwFMw05uUiwvm1T0xv4wzYRQoQk6E8Bjnlxd3R9dPZwKybq98sUoPQ_x8L-GHgxHMpZFVmBFVn5Q_4/s400/martilda2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I decorated these cookies with tiny roses using a similar technique. I love <span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">using </span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">g</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 16px;">lacé icing for cookies because it sets well, but doesn't get rock hard like royal icing.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgJdM03cMLD_tIWmRT8kGoPlQDAxgkXlgRWJ2TR-51tnu90z1MEX8GpnbIs4aZo6HQZy3hjXSVXcgGKQ4hQXd3uRNAR4ZDK3Fp92OKqvbsMbc9_n43swvxfCKlN5vNMMvCBYucB2tYzWw/s1600/martilda3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgJdM03cMLD_tIWmRT8kGoPlQDAxgkXlgRWJ2TR-51tnu90z1MEX8GpnbIs4aZo6HQZy3hjXSVXcgGKQ4hQXd3uRNAR4ZDK3Fp92OKqvbsMbc9_n43swvxfCKlN5vNMMvCBYucB2tYzWw/s400/martilda3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Congratulations, Martilda! I can't wait to meet your sweet new baby!</div>
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STATS:</div>
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No Fail Sugar Cookies</div>
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<a href="http://www.cakecentral.com/recipe/2055/no-fail-sugar-cookies">http://www.cakecentral.com/recipe/2055/no-fail-sugar-cookies</a></div>
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Chocolate Roll-Out Cookies</div>
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<a href="http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/chocolate-roll-out-cookies-240668">http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/chocolate-roll-out-cookies-240668</a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">G</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 16px;">lacé Icing</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 16px;"><a href="http://www.thatreallyfrostsme.com/2010/05/glace-icing.html">http://www.thatreallyfrostsme.com/2010/05/glace-icing.html</a></span></div>
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Royal Icing</div>
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<a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/316888/royal-icing-for-sugar-cookies">http://www.marthastewart.com/316888/royal-icing-for-sugar-cookies</a></div>
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Brush Embroidery Tutorial Video</div>
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FqbDTaauGO0">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FqbDTaauGO0</a></div>
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"Wet on Wet" Tutorial Video</div>
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nAIBpsXgtRE">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nAIBpsXgtRE</a></div>
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<br /></div>
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Sweet Ambs Tiny Flowers Tutorial Video</div>
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AUD4BGWNpsc">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AUD4BGWNpsc</a></div>
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Arianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489797588515677730noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1132336137875520261.post-77434774813131546312014-01-13T14:18:00.000-08:002014-01-13T15:05:26.269-08:00The 120 Mile Cookie!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This summer, the kids set a goal to walk 120 miles together. It was a hot summer, and it took a lot of work and dedication, but they did it! We had an awards ceremony to celebrate. I baked and decorated a giant sugar cookie to commemorate their accomplishment.</div>
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You can read more about our summer at my other blog: <a href="http://thecakerunner.blogspot.com/">The Cake Runner</a></div>
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<a href="http://thecakerunner.blogspot.com/2013/09/we-reached-our-goals.html">http://thecakerunner.blogspot.com/2013/09/we-reached-our-goals.html</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggMr_jZbnvk4_Xfoo14r9hYCq55dvtmDfuSLr5fT4yFvRP3QYnMDFeyA5gR80uKgQS1Y-ktagGumnl3zXzRvGlrfmWWmwSipDVcAWAhMI9tigD2Q2LCuXkaKErIoOjI1ogemu3rvpfOnI/s1600/120+cookie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="580" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggMr_jZbnvk4_Xfoo14r9hYCq55dvtmDfuSLr5fT4yFvRP3QYnMDFeyA5gR80uKgQS1Y-ktagGumnl3zXzRvGlrfmWWmwSipDVcAWAhMI9tigD2Q2LCuXkaKErIoOjI1ogemu3rvpfOnI/s640/120+cookie.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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After rolling out the dough, I used a salad plate for a template and cut out a large circle. I transferred the circle of dough to a parchment lined baking sheet. Then, I made some fork prints to prevent the cookie from rising too much during baking.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKjZtITscjp1gX_n0QmGsQrkNo7moaWeRhE92-X39HkmIwr0abKBnHZAyy4hwPB4e8-G1_fMSgrnImdlf8zIK6J5A7fnlECBNgo5xq0IBD5bpbzgPmYVSJuNQ6-bynOedwBb0opGc2Yyg/s1600/forkprints.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKjZtITscjp1gX_n0QmGsQrkNo7moaWeRhE92-X39HkmIwr0abKBnHZAyy4hwPB4e8-G1_fMSgrnImdlf8zIK6J5A7fnlECBNgo5xq0IBD5bpbzgPmYVSJuNQ6-bynOedwBb0opGc2Yyg/s640/forkprints.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I used my favorite sugar cookie recipe (linked below). I just added a few minutes to the cooking time since the cookie was so large.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv33ZJlmh_ix1qVPnCsg9koBvBdBEtjSggWG0DwMbQeVZ4obPwBBRT5FNERChQ5ib1h5NoakrMqIZkeYrbp3havqewwFsKs2c8Yfm9_8hT6vEu9diY3ze3YLT-5o4dhgQoFiPeo8l0-Xc/s1600/baked.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv33ZJlmh_ix1qVPnCsg9koBvBdBEtjSggWG0DwMbQeVZ4obPwBBRT5FNERChQ5ib1h5NoakrMqIZkeYrbp3havqewwFsKs2c8Yfm9_8hT6vEu9diY3ze3YLT-5o4dhgQoFiPeo8l0-Xc/s640/baked.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Once the cookie had cooled, I was able to flood the entire cookie with a base of white glace icing. I allowed that to dry overnight, then I used tan colored royal icing and a #3 writing tip to create the laurel wreath and the numbers. After that dried for a couple of hours, I used a small brush to "paint" gold luster dust mixed with a little vanilla onto the decorations.</div>
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Nice and Shiny!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiegov3ZIU8g3seR2ldBTUPmA9RLih4Bi1ZpIuI1EtOzhxALrUagszTr8lkpj86hEXkJz9jLxVfkphy0egEN3BAckLEffxMfOt1CAnvWUAND_U6EA-Rzq4MM2aHlKHCGv-zQScr7aHsD1k/s1600/award+cookie.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiegov3ZIU8g3seR2ldBTUPmA9RLih4Bi1ZpIuI1EtOzhxALrUagszTr8lkpj86hEXkJz9jLxVfkphy0egEN3BAckLEffxMfOt1CAnvWUAND_U6EA-Rzq4MM2aHlKHCGv-zQScr7aHsD1k/s640/award+cookie.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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STATS:</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
Stable Sugar Cookies</div>
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<a href="http://cakecentral.com/recipes/2055/no-fail-sugar-cookies">http://cakecentral.com/recipes/2055/no-fail-sugar-cookies</a></div>
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Glace Icing</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.thatreallyfrostsme.com/2010/05/glace-icing.html">http://www.thatreallyfrostsme.com/2010/05/glace-icing.html</a></div>
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Royal Icing</div>
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<a href="http://www.wilton.com/recipe/Royal-Icing">http://www.wilton.com/recipe/Royal-Icing</a></div>
Arianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489797588515677730noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1132336137875520261.post-73798169321900030932013-09-18T10:45:00.000-07:002013-09-18T10:59:48.039-07:00Professional Photography Makes a HUGE Difference!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I've done my fair share of research online, trying to find the best tips for taking nice pictures of my cakes. Those tips have definitely helped my pictures improve (things like having a nice backdrop, natural lighting, interesting angles, etc.). However, I have to say that professional photographs really make a huge difference.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLCQ_-pfbNLCKbFQsslJBoZ95_Wg9e08hoNWt6tDWpcUCbSIr43BViV7BxF1e1vc432t7x_RQIm4bKJXF00Qtw-GK6vIyfG1P_X1C4oIMzikKtbwuGKscZXRBdWWawkNqDNMKDN5IJwgE/s1600/two+tier.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
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My talented photographer friend Rebecca attended the party where these cakes were served, and I'm so grateful she shared her photos with me. I LOVE how clean and bright the cakes look in these pictures. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNnhyzzzKqK4l3mVp8fnbld94wG6IZKrhkOxToLmcophsaDQLHxS0wVJjI5sTa2MH5Gm7mWqVvuu20eu1VEwi0MYrth456UeEAncvrJ2VlEPLT-VbCf4paQZHi7W2zPElUemQMMtdbyTY/s1600/2cutebow.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNnhyzzzKqK4l3mVp8fnbld94wG6IZKrhkOxToLmcophsaDQLHxS0wVJjI5sTa2MH5Gm7mWqVvuu20eu1VEwi0MYrth456UeEAncvrJ2VlEPLT-VbCf4paQZHi7W2zPElUemQMMtdbyTY/s640/2cutebow.jpg" width="412" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd8Mno2RaZNAWubXMSeKQF_pPMZVdpf_s7q2ChcZ1PtVQO_vJ0sF6W9MMg-aDm2ywSLGQu0owUZX3Gkq32un8HJ6V8uipA6gou6FLSpBIy7gd8ecSjzLhayDHYa1AFF3a8SFQP7tkgsdU/s1600/prophotographer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
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I love this sign that Aubree's mom made. Isn't it cute?!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd8Mno2RaZNAWubXMSeKQF_pPMZVdpf_s7q2ChcZ1PtVQO_vJ0sF6W9MMg-aDm2ywSLGQu0owUZX3Gkq32un8HJ6V8uipA6gou6FLSpBIy7gd8ecSjzLhayDHYa1AFF3a8SFQP7tkgsdU/s1600/prophotographer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTT8ud5WmKilXJMR7gZUdqs-Gj93i2jvxnteKp_IKV9MmXSyI341DqqYxHCvu5LI_IOvcrnFptzKcs797vVv0ELn1QvpaZdBRAQ2T9k0gC2_GUggZMt4V5BQsoLn4Q_tyXVC5wXZz-rrg/s1600/1cutebow.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTT8ud5WmKilXJMR7gZUdqs-Gj93i2jvxnteKp_IKV9MmXSyI341DqqYxHCvu5LI_IOvcrnFptzKcs797vVv0ELn1QvpaZdBRAQ2T9k0gC2_GUggZMt4V5BQsoLn4Q_tyXVC5wXZz-rrg/s640/1cutebow.jpg" width="380" /></a></div>
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I created polka dots inside the cake by first baking some cake balls and then baking them into the cake layers. I'm so glad Rebecca got a picture of the cake after it was cut.</div>
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<a href="http://once-upon-a-pedestal.blogspot.com/2012/05/polka-dot-cake-from-bake-pop-pan.html">Polka Dot Cake Tutorial</a> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrkDbmM1MOlllasPhyphenhyphen7V0KfB9k5z6ZFoqGWXTSNb4GsWPDSGWkrAQMlXVcygawmi5kZ37e_HUKsc0TjGrYqunMWxx5Xaxaox0sKyzBx4s3bCjaHH3Ro82GIvSMX3I_UR_l1W6cNYS-x5U/s1600/3inside.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrkDbmM1MOlllasPhyphenhyphen7V0KfB9k5z6ZFoqGWXTSNb4GsWPDSGWkrAQMlXVcygawmi5kZ37e_HUKsc0TjGrYqunMWxx5Xaxaox0sKyzBx4s3bCjaHH3Ro82GIvSMX3I_UR_l1W6cNYS-x5U/s640/3inside.jpg" width="388" /></a></div>
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Just to give you some perspective, here's one of the pictures I tried to take of my cake:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY-VS6k0Ric8-Wm2emb2GkiqDGpo0VUQTeXCn-euePOmrGApPOPZ2kSWGSscYZYSdlsi4JeovGFQm_BQ3u-5ZiciCmNjPaKg5wghSpvctR-jTTIrt8gY-YRhOMiWrrYLh3r6gvvNJdid4/s1600/two+tier.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY-VS6k0Ric8-Wm2emb2GkiqDGpo0VUQTeXCn-euePOmrGApPOPZ2kSWGSscYZYSdlsi4JeovGFQm_BQ3u-5ZiciCmNjPaKg5wghSpvctR-jTTIrt8gY-YRhOMiWrrYLh3r6gvvNJdid4/s400/two+tier.jpg" width="348" /></a></div>
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So, yeah. The colors look off and the whole photo is grainy. Something about it just isn't as fun, either.</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
If you're working on creating a cake portfolio, try hiring a professional photographer.</div>
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You really will see a difference.</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>Rebecca Fedele is a Family Photographer who also specializes in Birth Photography.</i></b></div>
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<b><i>She is based in Illinois.</i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
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<b><i><a href="http://rebeccafedelephotography.com/">http://rebeccafedelephotography.com/</a></i></b></div>
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<b><i><a href="https://www.facebook.com/RebeccaFedelePhotography">https://www.facebook.com/RebeccaFedelePhotography</a></i></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTT8ud5WmKilXJMR7gZUdqs-Gj93i2jvxnteKp_IKV9MmXSyI341DqqYxHCvu5LI_IOvcrnFptzKcs797vVv0ELn1QvpaZdBRAQ2T9k0gC2_GUggZMt4V5BQsoLn4Q_tyXVC5wXZz-rrg/s1600/1cutebow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNnhyzzzKqK4l3mVp8fnbld94wG6IZKrhkOxToLmcophsaDQLHxS0wVJjI5sTa2MH5Gm7mWqVvuu20eu1VEwi0MYrth456UeEAncvrJ2VlEPLT-VbCf4paQZHi7W2zPElUemQMMtdbyTY/s1600/2cutebow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
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Arianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489797588515677730noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1132336137875520261.post-35809007768017935592013-09-02T10:48:00.000-07:002013-09-02T10:50:29.622-07:00Disaster Avoidance: Fading Colors<div style="text-align: center;">
Remember when I made this cake with the fun striped bows?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRnkNbii_zeHum6xgpn80qjn0tTQdc2bVIH4_ExkcKMten1joCplT2MJn8azeqwFUwzwkidyhdHEDkkqA5WDfrG8hisrjUCt1XFm8Qp1g7DO5v8ACJpNZT35G9ylcop1tx-IJjSlLXvcY/s1600/two+tier.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRnkNbii_zeHum6xgpn80qjn0tTQdc2bVIH4_ExkcKMten1joCplT2MJn8azeqwFUwzwkidyhdHEDkkqA5WDfrG8hisrjUCt1XFm8Qp1g7DO5v8ACJpNZT35G9ylcop1tx-IJjSlLXvcY/s640/two+tier.jpg" width="556" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://letsgetcaking.blogspot.com/2013/05/happy-birthday-aubree.html">http://letsgetcaking.blogspot.com/2013/05/happy-birthday-aubree.html</a></div>
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Well, I had some leftover fondant when I made it and decided to experiment and see if I could make a really big bow with a lot of stripes.</div>
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First I rolled out a big piece of white fondant. Then I used a pizza cutter to cut long ribbons of colored fondant, which I placed as evenly as I could on top of the white fondant. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOF0QD9Gikm15cx81N0BIobyucv7SCeI_kb4v6L9gSwcwRg1Flp_RecPUMZmbW3mhNJoINgtkPoQu6GIspXiAJRgjBD-3R0HTF8ANGu96YL7FdnCV-Y-b4dPZhSr2llGIaNiRMxCsxAT8/s1600/creating+stripes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOF0QD9Gikm15cx81N0BIobyucv7SCeI_kb4v6L9gSwcwRg1Flp_RecPUMZmbW3mhNJoINgtkPoQu6GIspXiAJRgjBD-3R0HTF8ANGu96YL7FdnCV-Y-b4dPZhSr2llGIaNiRMxCsxAT8/s640/creating+stripes.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Then I got out my rolling pin and flattened/smoothed it all together.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilNwajL_xLoVvp9X7E7qHRAoLXGWoSrqa6XFdJQ68QGE4dYM9A_k62ULReM67qRhC3JAQrHnl_cSUAaFdov0hCFhy8aMine_K2QT6ZQKhLSfVKNRgj20nsPFLUKSMmpi9dJY09tNgIXFE/s1600/smooth+stripes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilNwajL_xLoVvp9X7E7qHRAoLXGWoSrqa6XFdJQ68QGE4dYM9A_k62ULReM67qRhC3JAQrHnl_cSUAaFdov0hCFhy8aMine_K2QT6ZQKhLSfVKNRgj20nsPFLUKSMmpi9dJY09tNgIXFE/s640/smooth+stripes.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Then, I made a huge bow.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqQ8aF6h2WjL40iB_u0jhkAIIxoXdqpgXZ_YWLdJisA7m-1OLk09HroTyCj5Re3MThQu3NcxPh_KKZ_EXm1XkPTpWdRvBXdapejniU9OlLArDKP3DVQE5qs16i-393yxHCl4tMhETPvHg/s1600/large+bow1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqQ8aF6h2WjL40iB_u0jhkAIIxoXdqpgXZ_YWLdJisA7m-1OLk09HroTyCj5Re3MThQu3NcxPh_KKZ_EXm1XkPTpWdRvBXdapejniU9OlLArDKP3DVQE5qs16i-393yxHCl4tMhETPvHg/s640/large+bow1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Your eyes are not deceiving you - the colors faded significantly on the left. Can you guess which side was facing a window during storage? Thankfully I made this bow for fun and didn't discover a horrible surprise the morning a cake was due.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfZ0y6p5LFcxhWnzdYrM-NcnNs9VtvRUqP-cgei6DYUVnz84CBE5rNY6D0B4CjGjriznZ1_yonHO0L6yyyrUtgQrIdI8GAVXGCwajt04nU0d8DwQ1jKlCsPSVoUxTbe11NF2Acds8niY0/s1600/fading.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfZ0y6p5LFcxhWnzdYrM-NcnNs9VtvRUqP-cgei6DYUVnz84CBE5rNY6D0B4CjGjriznZ1_yonHO0L6yyyrUtgQrIdI8GAVXGCwajt04nU0d8DwQ1jKlCsPSVoUxTbe11NF2Acds8niY0/s640/fading.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Disaster Avoidance:</b></div>
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To preserve the color of your beautiful cakes and decorations, store in a cool, dry room out of direct sunlight.</div>
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Arianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489797588515677730noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1132336137875520261.post-59342174696467883812013-08-19T11:49:00.003-07:002013-08-19T11:49:43.222-07:00I love to create!<div style="text-align: center;">
I am grateful for the opportunity we all have to create!</div>
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<br /><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/RhLlnq5yY7k" width="560"></iframe>
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Arianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489797588515677730noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1132336137875520261.post-41374541081435486112013-08-07T09:26:00.000-07:002013-08-07T09:26:15.099-07:00Twirly Girl's 3rd Birthday!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY3qddUBMlLVHIxe0Fua1plQuQuTg10FvPNoXBYR9PASub6qEGOQqyRTVsj15vo-lIVrjXmba4XSVKnGC-nyXLR_HVx-Fu2obJVdQ7JW-NfovbHOU5tE5WJx_1Bdg7ndBcggoAepvP8Ew/s1600/TwirlyGirlPrincessCake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
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Twirly Girl loves pink and purple...and princesses.</div>
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So, a pink princess dress on the outside...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY3qddUBMlLVHIxe0Fua1plQuQuTg10FvPNoXBYR9PASub6qEGOQqyRTVsj15vo-lIVrjXmba4XSVKnGC-nyXLR_HVx-Fu2obJVdQ7JW-NfovbHOU5tE5WJx_1Bdg7ndBcggoAepvP8Ew/s1600/TwirlyGirlPrincessCake.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY3qddUBMlLVHIxe0Fua1plQuQuTg10FvPNoXBYR9PASub6qEGOQqyRTVsj15vo-lIVrjXmba4XSVKnGC-nyXLR_HVx-Fu2obJVdQ7JW-NfovbHOU5tE5WJx_1Bdg7ndBcggoAepvP8Ew/s400/TwirlyGirlPrincessCake.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
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...and purple stripes on the inside.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0joadhbLXBuI9616GFHpCnWeZzSFYKiSe3V-MeWiEqeVMSyqz68KXRoL7P8vIfqmuTSrNkc-pHIx68Ne6wbOlgPetevty1X4uqkdryo__PjUcXAOsHnkbd3Zu9HbEggTCrkeuEYlNA8Y/s1600/stripes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0joadhbLXBuI9616GFHpCnWeZzSFYKiSe3V-MeWiEqeVMSyqz68KXRoL7P8vIfqmuTSrNkc-pHIx68Ne6wbOlgPetevty1X4uqkdryo__PjUcXAOsHnkbd3Zu9HbEggTCrkeuEYlNA8Y/s400/stripes.jpg" width="335" /></a></div>
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The Historian decided this slice needed a little extra frosting for the birthday girl.</div>
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The kids and I had fun decorating together.</div>
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To make the purple stripes, I used the technique found here <a href="http://www.azcookbook.com/zebra-cake/">http://www.azcookbook.com/zebra-cake/</a> for making a zebra cake. I just colored half the batter purple and decided not to make as many stripes.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzmAfPy7ivtX8p9r6cs9t4L9OgSP9UnWJQOEWYiYROlvkQes2MXZ5UVrNlg9WjG6kx7HTd8ABXVTYvE0aFTIYHcnj-sCvsTUJIptyTQa_5pIgpohR1aMSFm0k8XjUeP51Xoq34zeBt-LM/s1600/circles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzmAfPy7ivtX8p9r6cs9t4L9OgSP9UnWJQOEWYiYROlvkQes2MXZ5UVrNlg9WjG6kx7HTd8ABXVTYvE0aFTIYHcnj-sCvsTUJIptyTQa_5pIgpohR1aMSFm0k8XjUeP51Xoq34zeBt-LM/s400/circles.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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This is what it looked like after I trimmed the top and edges:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7dSPnGGNrr3Vaju74BqiXKue5b1QBhyphenhyphenm06smmt7GSDmQKoh3IJpy8Fxtw3tMwWfB1X9I3kLWmbcGEQeIew4JdmxxhQQcHRLOKUE9QEaGK5HPtvB_sDIOMkXA9MNm2pCTZsFv-l8XGdUI/s1600/trimmed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7dSPnGGNrr3Vaju74BqiXKue5b1QBhyphenhyphenm06smmt7GSDmQKoh3IJpy8Fxtw3tMwWfB1X9I3kLWmbcGEQeIew4JdmxxhQQcHRLOKUE9QEaGK5HPtvB_sDIOMkXA9MNm2pCTZsFv-l8XGdUI/s400/trimmed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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We just wanted a small cake, so I cut some small circles out of the cake, stacked them, and carved them down to make the skirt for the princess. (The doll is a mermaid toy that my girls already had that we washed to use in the cake.)</div>
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STATS:</div>
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Zebra Cake</div>
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<a href="http://www.azcookbook.com/zebra-cake/">http://www.azcookbook.com/zebra-cake/</a></div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
Rhonda's Ultimate Marshmallow Fondant<br /><a href="http://cakecentral.com/recipe/rhondas-ultimate-mmf">http://cakecentral.com/recipe/rhondas-ultimate-mmf</a></div>
Arianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489797588515677730noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1132336137875520261.post-6183666612914276732013-06-08T04:46:00.000-07:002013-06-08T04:52:13.692-07:00We Love Our Teachers!<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm so grateful for the teachers and teacher's aides who worked with our children this year. They really cared about them and taught them so much. </div>
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We wanted to do something special for them at the end of the year. We decided to etch some glass jars,<br />
and then we filled them with Hershey kisses to give to all of their teachers. I was excited to find Hershey kisses wrapped in purple and gold - their school colors!</div>
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We etched the teacher's name on one side...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiws3fzEZz1_tTuC9JtG8XUjtWrEvx2Nlr5YPY2aZK6Zta_Kr9yonU0SA5QzxfwtYz3I0n-nOV9cW_ta5pf2s5EdQQw4M8pESQJFSEKTIR0ZCuFMHzZL8vS91PyMzLsD7FZ_qPVYgwhpIc/s1600/name.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiws3fzEZz1_tTuC9JtG8XUjtWrEvx2Nlr5YPY2aZK6Zta_Kr9yonU0SA5QzxfwtYz3I0n-nOV9cW_ta5pf2s5EdQQw4M8pESQJFSEKTIR0ZCuFMHzZL8vS91PyMzLsD7FZ_qPVYgwhpIc/s400/name.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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...and "thank you" on the other.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHFpUHG6HYPyKm3kNrYnsonDWed3fdZ1tOiTHhugFedPK-BGGPHP9SMaLDf7iH7qtpBOgzlmT_XFc8WC3vs8Fz7cWxpRvlawjLCENh_WKhiSVNdwUHaZ-1ZjbqGZV7gqXVNEIciLhGPew/s1600/thank+you.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHFpUHG6HYPyKm3kNrYnsonDWed3fdZ1tOiTHhugFedPK-BGGPHP9SMaLDf7iH7qtpBOgzlmT_XFc8WC3vs8Fz7cWxpRvlawjLCENh_WKhiSVNdwUHaZ-1ZjbqGZV7gqXVNEIciLhGPew/s400/thank+you.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Before we filled the jars with candy, I had to see what it would look like with a light inside.<br />
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Thank you, teachers!<br />
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<b>STATS:</b></div>
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Etched glass tutorial:</div>
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<a href="http://letsgetcaking.blogspot.com/2012/12/etched-glass-tutorial.html">http://letsgetcaking.blogspot.com/2012/12/etched-glass-tutorial.html</a></div>
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Arianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489797588515677730noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1132336137875520261.post-77716119153339855192013-05-01T07:40:00.001-07:002013-06-08T04:55:07.426-07:00Happy Birthday, Aubree!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Aubree's mom, Lindsay, requested a candy themed cake for Aubree's first birthday party. Lindsay had so many great ideas, and I really had fun going over cake designs with her. </div>
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The (nearly) completed cake.</div>
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Here it is with the little smash cake...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRFevq2KW5-ioUOCZPaHBAqqIVw3F-7s71YffNoRd5UAcoE78liJQr0bUIW2-geN47y7LteDndAp6003E-X8_bXkVouOCDaDJdPCFt1SPek4qUYHMRERHUSqyRnTg5Me378KV7hyGPBWg/s1600/together.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRFevq2KW5-ioUOCZPaHBAqqIVw3F-7s71YffNoRd5UAcoE78liJQr0bUIW2-geN47y7LteDndAp6003E-X8_bXkVouOCDaDJdPCFt1SPek4qUYHMRERHUSqyRnTg5Me378KV7hyGPBWg/s400/together.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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...and here they are at the party. I waited until I set up the cakes at the venue before I added the fondant lollipops. I didn't want to risk travelling with them attached to the cake.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9kHacawBCvAU8R4n3y7S_6gPTqUgs7YmSBc2bOj7tjoFSHiZFOT-SIeKOtGEGPP9EFKiIZ8f8cSuuj2q0l2bmQBwV6sFQShyphenhyphenu65D6GGfgLQzXAKTFCcLHGqn7Ug9hiycLAtpFPXaQ5IA/s1600/lollipops.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9kHacawBCvAU8R4n3y7S_6gPTqUgs7YmSBc2bOj7tjoFSHiZFOT-SIeKOtGEGPP9EFKiIZ8f8cSuuj2q0l2bmQBwV6sFQShyphenhyphenu65D6GGfgLQzXAKTFCcLHGqn7Ug9hiycLAtpFPXaQ5IA/s640/lollipops.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I LOVE how Lindsay decorated this table - that sign is seriously cool!</div>
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The party was held in an indoor bounce area. I was really worried that the weight of the lollipops - along with the expected bounce turbulence - would cause the lollipop sticks to pull through the cake. I asked for advice on how to prevent this problem on a cake forum, and (thankfully!) a talented cake decorator came to my rescue. Her name is Kara Buntin (owner of A Cake to Remember in Richmond, VA). She even made a video that was a great help to me.</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/jHYywNMm6Ow" width="420"></iframe></div>
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Brilliant, right? Thank you, Ms. Buntin! </div>
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You can check out her amazing work here: <a href="http://www.acaketoremember.com/">http://www.acaketoremember.com/</a>.</div>
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I ended up using cardboard covered with foil, and it worked beautifully. Once the fondant ball border was in place, you couldn't see the support at all.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWO1tRMbcQuuDxOIyh9tY8oOrs0J1cac1ooaP0gW-HJO9_GUv8JKqtWXQeLwQUViv4mbr5Liw50frhKNmGkAWr6vNEr9zyxPhVzk6O9Wi0Su1HjTcR9b4WG-S9CcBHUX01r7EXQ9rKgno/s1600/lollipop+support.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWO1tRMbcQuuDxOIyh9tY8oOrs0J1cac1ooaP0gW-HJO9_GUv8JKqtWXQeLwQUViv4mbr5Liw50frhKNmGkAWr6vNEr9zyxPhVzk6O9Wi0Su1HjTcR9b4WG-S9CcBHUX01r7EXQ9rKgno/s400/lollipop+support.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I used gold luster dust mixed with a little water to "paint" Aubree's name (piped with royal icing).</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhluVNy9J5msp6Cxtf1IPzivMfrOhwhyxNqXXwrq_2cIM7dLLpYoEe83w5BZZ2V3KDdcN5xoyDRP7X41nzroWiU6xtCzgh6HZPS1lHAC71TlXn1p7d2ZdkKMAa6_PF0sBbUsaWkmor8hYI/s1600/Aubree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhluVNy9J5msp6Cxtf1IPzivMfrOhwhyxNqXXwrq_2cIM7dLLpYoEe83w5BZZ2V3KDdcN5xoyDRP7X41nzroWiU6xtCzgh6HZPS1lHAC71TlXn1p7d2ZdkKMAa6_PF0sBbUsaWkmor8hYI/s400/Aubree.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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A closeup of the large bow:</div>
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The small bow:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiatvprg7ypudpZe9Gii8hnkaApqymDNnsAf-z5oOl9WlTExhfOTD0BaxLY-3Jqb6vs65ZVcRHif1UNjO853BvwAp0YH8HuT-vQahByXWq9_p35-A30Sc6pNc7VQIL2Mr4yl2UQUeedsrw/s1600/small+bow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiatvprg7ypudpZe9Gii8hnkaApqymDNnsAf-z5oOl9WlTExhfOTD0BaxLY-3Jqb6vs65ZVcRHif1UNjO853BvwAp0YH8HuT-vQahByXWq9_p35-A30Sc6pNc7VQIL2Mr4yl2UQUeedsrw/s400/small+bow.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The cake board:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQO7rQdcpXAtyGPVKV7Pq86N_ToVkBWfsQAQKGVkWRuVryZX1RQFn8iuhQVgsfXiiaAoQWye1kvaqVPMH1pCloPH-jHH8eHL40sk5HaGtoVGfCHkan8nmLjHnbX_BBMse5_NRkrqn-bL4/s1600/fondant+covered+board.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQO7rQdcpXAtyGPVKV7Pq86N_ToVkBWfsQAQKGVkWRuVryZX1RQFn8iuhQVgsfXiiaAoQWye1kvaqVPMH1pCloPH-jHH8eHL40sk5HaGtoVGfCHkan8nmLjHnbX_BBMse5_NRkrqn-bL4/s400/fondant+covered+board.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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We took extra care designing the inside of the cakes, too. The smash cake had pink layers inside, and the large cake had colorful polka dots baked into it. I don't have pictures of the cakes once they were cut, but I promise they were cute. :)</div>
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<b>STATS:</b></div>
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How to Make a Striped Fondant Bow</div>
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<a href="http://bronniebakes.com/2011/09/21/how-to-make-a-striped-fondant-bow/">http://bronniebakes.com/2011/09/21/how-to-make-a-striped-fondant-bow/</a></div>
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How to Make a Polka Dot Cake</div>
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<a href="http://once-upon-a-pedestal.blogspot.com/2012/05/polka-dot-cake-from-bake-pop-pan.html">http://once-upon-a-pedestal.blogspot.com/2012/05/polka-dot-cake-from-bake-pop-pan.html</a></div>
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How to Cover a Cake Board with Fondant</div>
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<a href="http://cakejournal.com/tutorials/how-to-cover-a-cake-board-with-rolled-fondant/">http://cakejournal.com/tutorials/how-to-cover-a-cake-board-with-rolled-fondant/</a></div>
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Arianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489797588515677730noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1132336137875520261.post-22689018360814993432013-04-30T09:16:00.001-07:002013-04-30T09:18:08.173-07:00Corsage Boxes Perfect for Fondant Toppers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I recently participated in a service exchange with the ladies in my church. I decided to give away fondant baby cowboy boots.</div>
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<img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjppaehg6bw-83ATab8_1ttBmPuW_tPlA0bDEyHYSE8ezaTjpqkyiXxpUx0phjNnq7ieTr6pw3grdBHVrGehKZUFRESxrROrJ7ecV7HAKrrWXXqdMrLdLx-vSBcneqI-6V2H9Ah4hMCJQw/s400/blue+boots.jpg" width="351" /> </div>
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I made a denim colored flower to go along with the boots. I used small pieces of extra fondant to hold the ruffles in place while the flower dried. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie-drFP_MBfm1z2eAt9ibh4hRpeF1bYykHEov3AJgYhNQvDb1C_ikGjONv1-JAQ0jAuGscxyjgLfFqlaiSK31ur-MLshQ0djITBs9PbJqHHV-ecXiofIU_DO5zuLvDYfysYvUOGreCT9w/s1600/fondant+supports.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie-drFP_MBfm1z2eAt9ibh4hRpeF1bYykHEov3AJgYhNQvDb1C_ikGjONv1-JAQ0jAuGscxyjgLfFqlaiSK31ur-MLshQ0djITBs9PbJqHHV-ecXiofIU_DO5zuLvDYfysYvUOGreCT9w/s400/fondant+supports.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Once the fondant was dry, I could remove the supports and the flower was ready to go.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNXnygF_mEnXLSXZg8S6js9EhWPx8qcsHrhqRJoZ7-XMeL6Mz461KsxImevZ_kKFtWIrHc5izu7Nyyve5OeNLHqcm0Li9opPsmjscmuIG_fBI5-GXWhC6U0PN5AvoABD2NxmoFuXjd4dI/s1600/flower+dry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNXnygF_mEnXLSXZg8S6js9EhWPx8qcsHrhqRJoZ7-XMeL6Mz461KsxImevZ_kKFtWIrHc5izu7Nyyve5OeNLHqcm0Li9opPsmjscmuIG_fBI5-GXWhC6U0PN5AvoABD2NxmoFuXjd4dI/s400/flower+dry.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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To help speed the drying process along, I put the fondant decorations into my food dehydrator. If you would like to try this, make sure the temperature is set to <b>off</b>. You don't want any heat to melt all of your hard work.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpS69mmaxlufDkUFSP1LJXRmXVqi6HOiwnVEcqGnGM3xmbp_DZE5-6Bcwhu4rd0bE5Xc_yqQfGOgMeV8fUa77_ui2_KYVibN9ApLNJsuDW4gFvhsFQIr_b0dEex0dH2XflZjQJtEL3fwo/s1600/dehydrator.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpS69mmaxlufDkUFSP1LJXRmXVqi6HOiwnVEcqGnGM3xmbp_DZE5-6Bcwhu4rd0bE5Xc_yqQfGOgMeV8fUa77_ui2_KYVibN9ApLNJsuDW4gFvhsFQIr_b0dEex0dH2XflZjQJtEL3fwo/s400/dehydrator.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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I love trying to find new ways to package treats and decorations. I found a corsage box at a craft store, and these fondant toppers fit in perfectly.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicKC01HVQG6LLyh-v5uJ91YDS_fDQkbj1RNsmflZDYOiLJIeWhfGxe6Ohr6cdccELRwo0nE5Cyuge76TXT9QjNvgdyasILCxnUfrhlT1NXZxzTmDcEG2ptxs_dXqR5LyWh2BoZML14wwg/s1600/open+box.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicKC01HVQG6LLyh-v5uJ91YDS_fDQkbj1RNsmflZDYOiLJIeWhfGxe6Ohr6cdccELRwo0nE5Cyuge76TXT9QjNvgdyasILCxnUfrhlT1NXZxzTmDcEG2ptxs_dXqR5LyWh2BoZML14wwg/s400/open+box.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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See?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFqdTlilgSkwXFGnIuuFlomucUHdX4YZEru_WpRbJjHAzpYNuMVdiQ4autf0tyJZzuhjsAdCBffkrQvKBekWAxzvgr_uz408RRL5FSBU_CIFOBkISiAafepJLR6-cI4imi5Bv6iWPLEpE/s1600/corsage+box.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFqdTlilgSkwXFGnIuuFlomucUHdX4YZEru_WpRbJjHAzpYNuMVdiQ4autf0tyJZzuhjsAdCBffkrQvKBekWAxzvgr_uz408RRL5FSBU_CIFOBkISiAafepJLR6-cI4imi5Bv6iWPLEpE/s400/corsage+box.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I really enjoyed spending time with my friends from church and participating in the service auction.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJsGsJF8823S30rXnEDvhLP-RM2L_k217T848Ttjgli6EGagGcYBF_ZdB-1aRNgvMHyINjWdfVv6kVXapn42mg3Gs90Gx1VgFN3SOlzUic8F8m_nPSMlOG6EEoRs22CLRVIcGfG9MWdPE/s1600/ready+to+go.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJsGsJF8823S30rXnEDvhLP-RM2L_k217T848Ttjgli6EGagGcYBF_ZdB-1aRNgvMHyINjWdfVv6kVXapn42mg3Gs90Gx1VgFN3SOlzUic8F8m_nPSMlOG6EEoRs22CLRVIcGfG9MWdPE/s400/ready+to+go.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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What are some creative ways <i>you</i> like to package your sweet creations? I'd love to hear your ideas!</div>
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Arianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489797588515677730noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1132336137875520261.post-45079894422166878812013-03-23T11:15:00.003-07:002013-03-23T11:17:15.129-07:00Caking with Kids<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I was asked to help teach a cupcake decorating class with the Activity Day girls from church. The Activity Day program is designed to help girls (ages 8-11) develop their testimonies, serve others, build friendships, and develop their talents.</div>
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<a href="http://www.lds.org/ldsorg/v/index.jsp?hideNav=1&locale=0&sourceId=b889991a83d20110VgnVCM100000176f620a____&vgnextoid=e36d5f74db46c010VgnVCM1000004d82620aRCRD">Primary Activity Days</a></div>
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The girls learned how to mix food coloring into fondant, how to create shapes out of fondant, and how to pipe a two-tone swirl on top of a cupcake. The girls learned quickly and were so creative!</div>
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<img border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf-QWHL1IROr84O9qNENjCQG-SsyC4SX6wthApGbOqp7RtLBEL3aDytbRJZHNXLUaH8wdOLCUbQBgukwM5c0yjZXN534md4z-YgemYWadMLWUlamUqpm-t7xdh-POG5CI-H7HNYjOfUlY/s400/two-tone+and+mixing+fondant.jpg" width="400" /> </div>
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I love this blue swirl cupcake that one of the girls designed!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyngdaiPbE-9eW0LOHghwQeuMzT4WtZyKQo5NjFOJG7UKlkq9QvhOqeaHAdoVLe14kHVEobqbl7DeAWjhSQHhUsbiSUts3B4uQ10LxLADHYclCIYQWUirj2ttNVXLTCgEXFL8g5nJfw0o/s1600/blue+swirl+with+flowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyngdaiPbE-9eW0LOHghwQeuMzT4WtZyKQo5NjFOJG7UKlkq9QvhOqeaHAdoVLe14kHVEobqbl7DeAWjhSQHhUsbiSUts3B4uQ10LxLADHYclCIYQWUirj2ttNVXLTCgEXFL8g5nJfw0o/s400/blue+swirl+with+flowers.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The Activity Day leader invited my children to join the activity last week, even though they're not eight yet. My five-year-old really enjoyed herself and cut this star out of fondant using just a butter knife.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzONGC0Bb9OhgFntyy9IMfg5xajJ3pQATjiuk5LiE95WulbJYzAFBFeaGteisSgcjwvXIYFpHaR54MBWObE2ZwRHBoPAc8IMxUGvaVDMKkyfC_Fmr1eTjFXsWC_ivPfgLmb1LViuV_830/s1600/Hannah+star.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="361" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzONGC0Bb9OhgFntyy9IMfg5xajJ3pQATjiuk5LiE95WulbJYzAFBFeaGteisSgcjwvXIYFpHaR54MBWObE2ZwRHBoPAc8IMxUGvaVDMKkyfC_Fmr1eTjFXsWC_ivPfgLmb1LViuV_830/s400/Hannah+star.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I had a wonderful time with the girls, and I think they enjoyed creating their own designs. One of the girls who normally attends their meetings was sick that night, and the girls decided to deliver a cupcake to her house to cheer her up. They are sweet girls, and they really care about each other.</div>
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<b>STATS:</b></div>
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How to pipe a two-tone swirl</div>
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<a href="http://www.wilton.com/forums/messageview.cfm?catid=8&threadid=152756&FTVAR_MSGDBTABLE=">http://www.wilton.com/forums/messageview.cfm?catid=8&threadid=152756&FTVAR_MSGDBTABLE=</a></div>
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Rhonda's Ultimate Marshmallow Fondant</div>
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<a href="http://cakecentral.com/recipe/rhondas-ultimate-mmf">http://cakecentral.com/recipe/rhondas-ultimate-mmf</a></div>
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<br />Arianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489797588515677730noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1132336137875520261.post-76173629671179575212013-03-02T04:21:00.001-08:002013-03-02T04:33:43.000-08:00Robbie's CTR Cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In December, I made some CTR cookies for a wonderful boy at church who was getting baptized. CTR stands for "Choose The Right." Members of our church will often wear a CTR ring as a reminder to always try to do good.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZgbtkU-5oDpJ0TkRiiOzy3ixKpZpfDTbZUS329zYmQKLHrTrBKimLUbAgzbJdMBavDGwYkOZbrdrqglKX_QAUMeyBVJTRD9Nv8H9To9btcNj7igEEiRfeSryJE2EM6VmtdOH2jblq5f0/s1600/ctr+on+stand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZgbtkU-5oDpJ0TkRiiOzy3ixKpZpfDTbZUS329zYmQKLHrTrBKimLUbAgzbJdMBavDGwYkOZbrdrqglKX_QAUMeyBVJTRD9Nv8H9To9btcNj7igEEiRfeSryJE2EM6VmtdOH2jblq5f0/s400/ctr+on+stand.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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These cookies are decorated with glace icing. I first outlined the shape of the cookie using a #3 writing tip, then flooded the center with blue icing. Then, using the "wet on wet" technique, I piped the CTR letters. </div>
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Here they are in my favorite drying area. It's a large picture frame box with a lid that opens and closes, similar to a pizza box. I like it because it doesn't take up much space and I can keep the cookies clean and covered with the lid, which still allows the icing to continue drying.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6tzE_abepQOu9QneFaUKeZKW0Ia6LEMMFCUWwAs_xnsVxqDC3hBloy2rcUMCBF7zZyYMzAShKggmcqloSICiE-QMmp5JliMlT0LA1oRsJ6m3k6heHs27vgsuWzqa-UO4d1YJsbpkPDx8/s1600/ctr+cookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="388" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6tzE_abepQOu9QneFaUKeZKW0Ia6LEMMFCUWwAs_xnsVxqDC3hBloy2rcUMCBF7zZyYMzAShKggmcqloSICiE-QMmp5JliMlT0LA1oRsJ6m3k6heHs27vgsuWzqa-UO4d1YJsbpkPDx8/s400/ctr+cookies.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I try to be careful when flooding a cookie, but sometimes I go overboard with the amount of flood icing. You can see a "spillage" incident here. There are two ways to deal with this:</div>
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1. Allow the icing to dry, scrape it off with a knife and redecorate the cookie - it'll be good as new!</div>
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2. Eat it.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6tzE_abepQOu9QneFaUKeZKW0Ia6LEMMFCUWwAs_xnsVxqDC3hBloy2rcUMCBF7zZyYMzAShKggmcqloSICiE-QMmp5JliMlT0LA1oRsJ6m3k6heHs27vgsuWzqa-UO4d1YJsbpkPDx8/s1600/ctr+cookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmfqyMVaz7XqMa17Qr7qOs3xAcaA7MWtiRmrOSUxlSIZM7NUMvLIVWgQa5RWk1MDYtcUnHYpb2ucDTtmxj3Ueju48DCJgj-6uoYqlq7_jE1rxvoATdyH0_iQgSIIfULpiJD1CpgCXg-PY/s1600/spilling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmfqyMVaz7XqMa17Qr7qOs3xAcaA7MWtiRmrOSUxlSIZM7NUMvLIVWgQa5RWk1MDYtcUnHYpb2ucDTtmxj3Ueju48DCJgj-6uoYqlq7_jE1rxvoATdyH0_iQgSIIfULpiJD1CpgCXg-PY/s400/spilling.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Glace icing is great because it dries smooth and shiny, and you can stack the cookies once the icing is dry without ruining the decoration. I prefer it over royal icing because it doesn't get rock hard. It's nice to bite into it - I prefer soft icing on my cookies, not crunchy.</div>
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Not having a shield cookie cutter, I cut a shield shape out of a piece of paper. Using that as a template, I cut the shapes out of the cookie dough with a sharp paring knife.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvCUiUMu0sGy9s2tVnpSu99w4RmLaXA9t4VFT-FojAkm_HwhsnKDpfFOVJGDS8z4JQDZXzNikyDUatNU_FZllzkPn4ZhDSLRNEpE3G8xjQi0HMWr95c9vuGkwKjPgXIYGC1M7r254clKQ/s1600/CTR+smooth+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvCUiUMu0sGy9s2tVnpSu99w4RmLaXA9t4VFT-FojAkm_HwhsnKDpfFOVJGDS8z4JQDZXzNikyDUatNU_FZllzkPn4ZhDSLRNEpE3G8xjQi0HMWr95c9vuGkwKjPgXIYGC1M7r254clKQ/s400/CTR+smooth+copy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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STATS:<br />
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No Fail Sugar Cookies<br />
<a href="http://cakecentral.com/recipes/2055/no-fail-sugar-cookies">http://cakecentral.com/recipes/2055/no-fail-sugar-cookies</a><br />
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Glace Icing<br />
<a href="http://www.thatreallyfrostsme.com/2010/05/glace-icing.html">http://www.thatreallyfrostsme.com/2010/05/glace-icing.html</a><br />
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"Wet on Wet" Technique<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nAIBpsXgtRE">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nAIBpsXgtRE</a><br />
<br />Arianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489797588515677730noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1132336137875520261.post-9276621550595990172013-03-01T10:54:00.000-08:002013-03-01T10:58:38.144-08:00Baby Blue Cowboy Boots<div style="text-align: center;">
Last month I got to make a cake for a cowgirl baby shower.<br />
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<a href="http://letsgetcaking.blogspot.com/2013/01/welcome-baby-jenna.html">http://letsgetcaking.blogspot.com/2013/01/welcome-baby-jenna.html</a></div>
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I loved making those little boots, and last week I was happy to make another pair - this time for a boy!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe6qEyQH3JRJSAyG26Q94bVIFKCw3AiB4ksATubSNmJQDbe3_J607A3LRESXV8kU6HAkcyMOwWntUBc8N934E-mA5zOACaibBpEy6va3Lp-8DGiNChxvCmLSEewOdniLk5aRcfKskj9fg/s1600/cowboyboots.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="340" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe6qEyQH3JRJSAyG26Q94bVIFKCw3AiB4ksATubSNmJQDbe3_J607A3LRESXV8kU6HAkcyMOwWntUBc8N934E-mA5zOACaibBpEy6va3Lp-8DGiNChxvCmLSEewOdniLk5aRcfKskj9fg/s400/cowboyboots.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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...and the back... </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5zUvjbDD-e13mmjgdDZev15C7iIfJ3RY5vK1a-Lac6Kb3Ec17Yvv-eS_LcJ0GintZiuri9Z6-aafmB3Q3n00MsOs3zTT7FzHAKXAT6N15527GrvZ91-5mh-7cQi8W8Hcori1Gre7HZVI/s1600/bootsback.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5zUvjbDD-e13mmjgdDZev15C7iIfJ3RY5vK1a-Lac6Kb3Ec17Yvv-eS_LcJ0GintZiuri9Z6-aafmB3Q3n00MsOs3zTT7FzHAKXAT6N15527GrvZ91-5mh-7cQi8W8Hcori1Gre7HZVI/s400/bootsback.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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...and a quarter for size comparison.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCEW1ZP1xhNxyNN4YUicO1Mlz0Yphp3TPE7j2ly6NaqPt3OSyOotxFs7sV05AHirZ02tbRtZJFaabVmrbd-FK5TMeOi7GOktUTA-FXzcYoekWEh0ExzA8zoG6e9N-oL7_GXGQamCUkmUo/s1600/sizecomparison.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCEW1ZP1xhNxyNN4YUicO1Mlz0Yphp3TPE7j2ly6NaqPt3OSyOotxFs7sV05AHirZ02tbRtZJFaabVmrbd-FK5TMeOi7GOktUTA-FXzcYoekWEh0ExzA8zoG6e9N-oL7_GXGQamCUkmUo/s400/sizecomparison.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I can't seem to get enough of fondant decorations. They're so much fun!<br />
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STATS:<br />
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Kathy's Custom Cakes Baby Cowboy Boots Template <br />
<a href="http://media.cakecentral.com/modules/coppermine/albums/userpics/510013/BootTemplate2C.jpg">http://media.cakecentral.com/modules/coppermine/albums/userpics/510013/BootTemplate2C.jpg</a><br />
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Rhonda's Ultimate Marshmallow Fondant<br />
<a href="http://cakecentral.com/recipe/rhondas-ultimate-mmf">http://cakecentral.com/recipe/rhondas-ultimate-mmf</a>Arianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489797588515677730noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1132336137875520261.post-90598307051809261382013-02-28T05:16:00.002-08:002013-02-28T05:16:55.459-08:00Guest Sweet: Bear Cake for a Cub ScoutMy son just earned his Bear Badge in Cub Scouts. We are so proud of him! He has wonderful Cub Scout leaders, and they organized a very nice Blue and Gold Banquet for the Cub Scouts. Sister Robinson, the wife of one of the leaders, made a really cute bear cake in honor of my son earning his bear badge. I'm so grateful to her and all of the scout leaders for making it a special night for my son.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirGrwF-UsCUViQMvHyNIJ76PhIjUZFhbple_JNeXdK6Jvrzk_Z7SK_zqseuw3q_wsKhYv-MlzsvLXSKLH1DekkKm63yAhZpMvNivfOoalLZyux9BhJ8CEJO21Lq1Pyxt4ULHPx4_56fIc/s1600/Bear+Badge+Cake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirGrwF-UsCUViQMvHyNIJ76PhIjUZFhbple_JNeXdK6Jvrzk_Z7SK_zqseuw3q_wsKhYv-MlzsvLXSKLH1DekkKm63yAhZpMvNivfOoalLZyux9BhJ8CEJO21Lq1Pyxt4ULHPx4_56fIc/s320/Bear+Badge+Cake.jpg" width="249" /></a></div>
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Sister Robinson made a chocolate cake with delicious peanut butter frosting. Thank you, Sister Robinson!<br />
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STATS:<br />
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Peanut Butter Frosting<br />
<a href="http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Brownie-Cupcakes-with-Peanut-Butter-Frosting-107660">http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Brownie-Cupcakes-with-Peanut-Butter-Frosting-107660</a>Arianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489797588515677730noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1132336137875520261.post-59617036191016651362013-02-08T07:51:00.000-08:002013-02-08T08:06:55.870-08:00Guest Sweet: Chocolate Dipped Pretzel Rods for Valentine's Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My friend Holly made these pretty treats for a Relief Society teacher workshop we attended recently.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsu5g_zHJLnvQkcsax2bqDFTgMOXP0TU2xi8LcM5ai65QfgWB-Ft41mDIN-qf1mtw3y9X5p-5V4Aqw28oGZFmnT-GJyVpx0nJg6m-0NGEUexmHsrhWN_EYULvbM8yEmyZXsQTxFhYYrR8/s1600/pretzel+rods+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="377" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsu5g_zHJLnvQkcsax2bqDFTgMOXP0TU2xi8LcM5ai65QfgWB-Ft41mDIN-qf1mtw3y9X5p-5V4Aqw28oGZFmnT-GJyVpx0nJg6m-0NGEUexmHsrhWN_EYULvbM8yEmyZXsQTxFhYYrR8/s400/pretzel+rods+copy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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They were delicious, and I love the tiny heart sprinkles she used! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUUeSAdkVDj9K4zMwFxhTwOBxzBTCY11q9jtdp0FrsTnInDyoXCeUfkZaMKxtqhzKprjEa1h4l6Lxouj9jwxleSv8bXBaVVTqSPE2Msuigg4AWUcqLL2PGbG3g9-S8kPM8tajkaVJfnSI/s1600/heartsprinkles+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUUeSAdkVDj9K4zMwFxhTwOBxzBTCY11q9jtdp0FrsTnInDyoXCeUfkZaMKxtqhzKprjEa1h4l6Lxouj9jwxleSv8bXBaVVTqSPE2Msuigg4AWUcqLL2PGbG3g9-S8kPM8tajkaVJfnSI/s400/heartsprinkles+copy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I also love how she packaged them. She folded cellophane around four pretzel rods (two chocolate and two white chocolate), and taped it in place. Then she tied a ribbon around the neat package.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxc0Rd6zvcoN8q2SKKIK4dI9y_3KB1_zuhm6okMxgXvs1uyMadhkzoIGe500Y9MfshsZD1ad-D-9bz5BTaRW07Jo6smigSZrNjBp0_nnos0wGSr4oU7U39c4xecWGHeYHnyFTHF_N13Ko/s1600/cellophanebow+copy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxc0Rd6zvcoN8q2SKKIK4dI9y_3KB1_zuhm6okMxgXvs1uyMadhkzoIGe500Y9MfshsZD1ad-D-9bz5BTaRW07Jo6smigSZrNjBp0_nnos0wGSr4oU7U39c4xecWGHeYHnyFTHF_N13Ko/s400/cellophanebow+copy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I thought these were so cute and a great idea for Valentine's Day, so I had to take some pictures before my family and I could dig in. Thank you, Holly!</div>
Arianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489797588515677730noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1132336137875520261.post-84932756389081853822013-01-28T22:01:00.000-08:002013-01-28T22:09:56.721-08:00Valentine Cookie Favors<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I don't know who first came up with idea of putting a cookie in a cd sleeve, but I love it. I think it's brilliant! I love that the packaging is cheap and even comes with its own little window, perfectly shaped for a round cookie. These would be great to send to school for Valentine's Day. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq5FQF0sE7krOUbZwYumToBOiS5rzMD-4dqTQeFUR2wbGrfS7r66b9RNF2ZTMfc9ToIRLmweqgseW_oeX67bC_0LLAXF2wT5PTWSJhlU235asaNufQ_wNyXcU0CC_cYZ6x98MqDGDP1tE/s1600/Happy+Valentine's+Day+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq5FQF0sE7krOUbZwYumToBOiS5rzMD-4dqTQeFUR2wbGrfS7r66b9RNF2ZTMfc9ToIRLmweqgseW_oeX67bC_0LLAXF2wT5PTWSJhlU235asaNufQ_wNyXcU0CC_cYZ6x98MqDGDP1tE/s400/Happy+Valentine's+Day+copy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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For this cookie, I followed Martha Stewart's recipe for cowboy cookies. The only change I made is that I used a 1/4 cup of cookie dough for each cookie instead of a tablespoon. I was able to fit 6 cookies to a cookie sheet. Then, I covered the cookie dough balls with as many pink and red M&M's as possible. Pack them in tightly because they will spread apart as the cookies bake.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1IyRMcZtpR43lsfprqQsFpUOkRO6CMirwilJnk0zIfAh7Rak1Db8FWKAR5c40AXGpu9X_UsFiPo5QZi1mh73673pIZNZRcmKTKtk12NzIlNI88wkfQpPoewEIch7muY2rcrxbTnHD7Ic/s1600/cookie+dough.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="261" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1IyRMcZtpR43lsfprqQsFpUOkRO6CMirwilJnk0zIfAh7Rak1Db8FWKAR5c40AXGpu9X_UsFiPo5QZi1mh73673pIZNZRcmKTKtk12NzIlNI88wkfQpPoewEIch7muY2rcrxbTnHD7Ic/s400/cookie+dough.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The cookies will spread to about 4" in diameter. That seemed to be just the right size to fit into the cd sleeve without sliding around. I wrapped each cookie in plastic wrap before placing them into the cd sleeves.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5V83mMrOCqCpjLE-UtSELlMskP2phNMFxDFd7JT9sbJOy2Y79V_i859FOdg_KnfvCE2DgkFPTIoPbbgKy_cAl3_J4q1HcHFwrI0-FSw50uGFHCqTN4WFB2zNrI9dL3GrG6aiwyV6cRTo/s1600/cowgirl+cookie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5V83mMrOCqCpjLE-UtSELlMskP2phNMFxDFd7JT9sbJOy2Y79V_i859FOdg_KnfvCE2DgkFPTIoPbbgKy_cAl3_J4q1HcHFwrI0-FSw50uGFHCqTN4WFB2zNrI9dL3GrG6aiwyV6cRTo/s400/cowgirl+cookie.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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This was a fun project! It would be fun to let the kids help with the baking, and then let them decorate the cd sleeves however they like with markers and Valentine stickers. </div>
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Happy Valentine's Day!</div>
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STATS:</div>
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Martha Stewart's Cowboy Cookies</div>
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<a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/260966/cowboy-cookies">http://www.marthastewart.com/260966/cowboy-cookies</a></div>
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Arianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489797588515677730noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1132336137875520261.post-25391123928587464142013-01-15T19:18:00.001-08:002013-01-15T20:29:57.661-08:00Welcome, Baby Jenna!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW2rLDMFy4kn7QcnH2CTrNKeE_lrylm-nru61h6QLt4Uh2KnuhViUOSEqebj3AEwCkWx1obbG1KByI3hvq0YaAPyQ9dLcB1l-f7DYRVFkXOqBke4e9pD_mT4Zqo7_X82jM0CVZxZnKmqI/s1600/welcomesign1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW2rLDMFy4kn7QcnH2CTrNKeE_lrylm-nru61h6QLt4Uh2KnuhViUOSEqebj3AEwCkWx1obbG1KByI3hvq0YaAPyQ9dLcB1l-f7DYRVFkXOqBke4e9pD_mT4Zqo7_X82jM0CVZxZnKmqI/s640/welcomesign1.jpg" width="550" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5kA_5nYLkq_3IojfHm9zBcyU6JqYyB0uEL6L1SAFxPENIe3185kXEazlphmFOD6dYky1a1XJFKr5DJd58VmemKMFkwdfp56d_eZlJW5BljUOnbyc3p-MsbSKHw6LywE6iBsg4zs9XiVU/s1600/strawberry+cake+anatomy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
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My friends and I had a great time putting together a baby shower for our sweet friend, Shelly. The expectant parents already have a name picked out for their new baby girl...Jenna. I love her name, and I can't wait to meet Jenna when she comes!</div>
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Laura was in charge of the decorations, and the room looked so good! I wish I was able to take pictures of all of the decorations she put together. She decorated the walls with huge cactus plants, a boot and a sheriff's badge made from colorful butcher paper. The tables were covered in pink and brown tablecloths and pretty cowboy hats decorated with girly bows. Everything was so cute! Luckily, I was able to get a picture of the cute welcome banner she made.</div>
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We planned a western-themed shower and made western food to go along with it. We had Mexican Lasagne (courtesy of Colleen), Creamy Tortilla Soup (This soup was SO good, and Colleen posted her recipe here: <a href="http://myfoodiefavorites.wordpress.com/2013/01/13/creamy-tortilla-soup/">http://myfoodiefavorites.wordpress.com/2013/01/13/creamy-tortilla-soup/</a>), cornbread muffins (courtesy of Lesley), barbecue meatballs (courtesy of Amelia), Russian potato salad (courtesy of Liliya), fruit (Liliya again), homemade salsa and chips (courtesy of Kelly), and root beer floats for the drinks (Lesley again). I loved that Lesley called them "Sarsaparilla Floats." I am so grateful to have such fun and talented friends!</div>
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Amelia and Lesley planned some great games for the baby shower. Here's the cute sign Lesley made for the <a href="http://entertaining.about.com/cs/showers/a/bbyshowfoodgame.htm">"Do You Know Your Baby Vittles?"</a> game. We don't use the term "vittles" nearly enough, in my opinion.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifZKNXRqMblW3hyphenhyphenl9vADg0bRQXBXRZI5UeAjiHW42v5K2D06xxxaNDOKuolYxj0zW856bkDjfJV5Erv1nzylCzp344XmqvBKhPhs0l1girzPv7kKBHCatcGp-fMeWHamWo1mebESpw7xk/s1600/baby+vittles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifZKNXRqMblW3hyphenhyphenl9vADg0bRQXBXRZI5UeAjiHW42v5K2D06xxxaNDOKuolYxj0zW856bkDjfJV5Erv1nzylCzp344XmqvBKhPhs0l1girzPv7kKBHCatcGp-fMeWHamWo1mebESpw7xk/s400/baby+vittles.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Here's the cake I made for the shower. It's strawberry cake, filled with cream cheese frosting, covered with a thin crumb coat of cream cheese frosting, and then completely covered with chocolate ganache.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5kA_5nYLkq_3IojfHm9zBcyU6JqYyB0uEL6L1SAFxPENIe3185kXEazlphmFOD6dYky1a1XJFKr5DJd58VmemKMFkwdfp56d_eZlJW5BljUOnbyc3p-MsbSKHw6LywE6iBsg4zs9XiVU/s1600/strawberry+cake+anatomy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4-u20-5S0lwu0LllKWhGku3A9D-jTyTgQeTEwzyqlx09LbyGaHpbdL1-US2KXK7o9a4HmQKkt9eg04xfZUn7C3Ju7q56fp-bx9HqGJZpJaRdrV3XWk7JnRM5oUqpQdnbu14sEWvhdURU/s1600/finished+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="323" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4-u20-5S0lwu0LllKWhGku3A9D-jTyTgQeTEwzyqlx09LbyGaHpbdL1-US2KXK7o9a4HmQKkt9eg04xfZUn7C3Ju7q56fp-bx9HqGJZpJaRdrV3XWk7JnRM5oUqpQdnbu14sEWvhdURU/s400/finished+copy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Here's a closeup of the baby cowgirl boots. I'll post a link to the template I used to make the fondant boots in the STATS section at the bottom of this post.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhimPCKqG4v2WJyQis2lfOHHyL2ija81cIdJf4SkiIAH1VwV0S0tQDwLTPOJlFqydelFJsgprwp5cryCLEfomsPzdCizd8IIgv_iRbUqGNiW8baQkn1WQiA2rDOXuLDXNxCNcsJG8lDjxw/s1600/baby+cowgirl+boots+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhimPCKqG4v2WJyQis2lfOHHyL2ija81cIdJf4SkiIAH1VwV0S0tQDwLTPOJlFqydelFJsgprwp5cryCLEfomsPzdCizd8IIgv_iRbUqGNiW8baQkn1WQiA2rDOXuLDXNxCNcsJG8lDjxw/s400/baby+cowgirl+boots+copy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>*UPDATE*</b> I just realized as I posted this, that I attached the boot waist incorrectly onto the sole of the boots. The downward scallop should be at the front and back of the boot, not at the sides under the pull straps. And to think I so carefully placed the pieces exactly wrong. LOL! Oh, well. Live and learn.<br />
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Cake Anatomy</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5kA_5nYLkq_3IojfHm9zBcyU6JqYyB0uEL6L1SAFxPENIe3185kXEazlphmFOD6dYky1a1XJFKr5DJd58VmemKMFkwdfp56d_eZlJW5BljUOnbyc3p-MsbSKHw6LywE6iBsg4zs9XiVU/s1600/strawberry+cake+anatomy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5kA_5nYLkq_3IojfHm9zBcyU6JqYyB0uEL6L1SAFxPENIe3185kXEazlphmFOD6dYky1a1XJFKr5DJd58VmemKMFkwdfp56d_eZlJW5BljUOnbyc3p-MsbSKHw6LywE6iBsg4zs9XiVU/s400/strawberry+cake+anatomy.jpg" width="366" /> </a><br />
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<b>Strawberry Cake </b><br />
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1 (16.5 oz.) box of white cake mix<br />
1 cup flour<br />
1 cup granulated sugar<br />
1 (3 oz.) package of strawberry gelatin<br />
8 oz. sour cream<br />
1/2 cup pureed strawberries<br />
1/2 cup citrus soda<br />
3 large eggs<br />
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Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Whisk together cake mix, flour, sugar, and strawberry gelatin in a large bowl. In a separate mixing bowl, beat together sour cream, pureed strawberries, citrus soda, and eggs. Slowly add dry ingredients to wet, mixing on low speed at first. Then, beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until well combined. Line a 9x13" baking pan with parchment paper and spray with nonstick cooking spray. Pour cake batter into prepared pan. Bake at 325 degrees for 25 minutes then raise oven temperature to 350 degrees for another 20 minutes. Cake is done when a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.<br />
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STATS:</div>
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Kathy's Custom Cakes Baby Cowboy Boots Template </div>
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<a href="http://media.cakecentral.com/modules/coppermine/albums/userpics/510013/BootTemplate2C.jpg">http://media.cakecentral.com/modules/coppermine/albums/userpics/510013/BootTemplate2C.jpg</a> </div>
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Ganache Recipe, Tips, and Videos at Art and Appetite</div>
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<a href="http://www.artandappetite.com/2009/11/ganache-instead-of-buttercream/">http://www.artandappetite.com/2009/11/ganache-instead-of-buttercream/</a></div>
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Cream Cheese Frosting</div>
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<a href="http://www.texascottagefoodlaw.com/Resources/Recipes/TraditionalCreamCheeseFrosting.aspx">http://www.texascottagefoodlaw.com/Resources/Recipes/TraditionalCreamCheeseFrosting.aspx</a></div>
</div>
Arianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489797588515677730noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1132336137875520261.post-20229622993402980912013-01-03T16:11:00.000-08:002013-01-07T20:39:36.197-08:00S'More Cookies<div style="text-align: center;">
Just another version of the Cake Mix Cookie - very easy and very good!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Yzciua3r6yTrxInvbhY8g8ujOQXc6-DenAla_WC0s4KQHb2_I3LMFO126QU38MP_3ud8Rw9qZ8eU5reB8G69ozk_K9XMchgGFJUgGbn67n5uNC4WKdZVcPIm4VQZ4-t1WzxakR9A9pk/s1600/s'more+1+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="340" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Yzciua3r6yTrxInvbhY8g8ujOQXc6-DenAla_WC0s4KQHb2_I3LMFO126QU38MP_3ud8Rw9qZ8eU5reB8G69ozk_K9XMchgGFJUgGbn67n5uNC4WKdZVcPIm4VQZ4-t1WzxakR9A9pk/s400/s'more+1+copy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>S'More Cookies</b></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
chocolate cake mix <b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 Eggs</div>
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1/3 cup oil</div>
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1 cup chocolate chips</div>
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2 cups miniature marshmallows</div>
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2 chocolate bars</div>
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl, stir together cake mix, eggs, and oil until well combined. Mix in the chocolate chips. Using your hands, "smoosh" the marshmallows into the dough, then roll the dough into balls and place them on a cookie sheet. (Yes, "smoosh" is the technical French cooking term.) Then, break off small pieces of a chocolate bar and add a few to the top of each cookie. Bake for 7-10 minutes. Immediately transfer to a cooling rack. Cookies will be really soft when they first come out of the oven, but harden as they cool. <b><i>Do not over bake. </i></b></div>
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Wanna see some more?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOOeQ5e7hhP5H1lYwo5Jnd5-pjF1lyrUI7hh4ddOSkZC8pIuQnQpnYW31zmfaYzruV73XCbx1JeXFFmUk33hdTuRx5UIWBqejghuTqo1kw-u3V7BiXdzoXUfOjaozWosQ9zpthmee0WII/s1600/s'more+cookies+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="302" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOOeQ5e7hhP5H1lYwo5Jnd5-pjF1lyrUI7hh4ddOSkZC8pIuQnQpnYW31zmfaYzruV73XCbx1JeXFFmUk33hdTuRx5UIWBqejghuTqo1kw-u3V7BiXdzoXUfOjaozWosQ9zpthmee0WII/s400/s'more+cookies+copy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Yum!</div>
<br />
For some more indoor S'More fun:<br />
<br />
Oven S'Mores!<br />
<a href="http://letsgetcaking.blogspot.com/2011/07/oven-smores.html">http://letsgetcaking.blogspot.com/2011/07/oven-smores.html</a>Arianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489797588515677730noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1132336137875520261.post-84144102289060686032012-12-12T05:12:00.001-08:002013-01-07T20:34:18.451-08:00Lace Cookies for Christmas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This Christmas, I wanted to make something special for some wonderful women I know.</div>
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I found a design for intricate lace cookies at <a href="http://cakecreationsforyou.blogspot.com/">http://cakecreationsforyou.blogspot.com/</a>. Nadia is the decorator from the site, and she creates beautiful cookies.</div>
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I'm really happy with how the cookies turned out!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Xb-Wl7_dix3wHiJ-P25KNoz9QaEpJL4QBQhjnOC35RmjCE9MFcE391SlNhXXqbEqwosnhA6ApcMhZxkMwSbug6pT0zaqyuDBpEJNaRgDxhRDgaW_9H44l59Xk-Nm3HaIeaS_MceccEg/s1600/finished1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="357" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Xb-Wl7_dix3wHiJ-P25KNoz9QaEpJL4QBQhjnOC35RmjCE9MFcE391SlNhXXqbEqwosnhA6ApcMhZxkMwSbug6pT0zaqyuDBpEJNaRgDxhRDgaW_9H44l59Xk-Nm3HaIeaS_MceccEg/s400/finished1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
To
make the lace pattern, I first outlined the heart shape with royal
icing. Using the same icing, I made 14 straight lines running diagonally
across the cookie.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1DM5SBeoWNCAN-rNYUoYirGH4vSxQLaNHL6HYkn3EZ_1-tcBwSr_7fTWp07IDbXUIUBpR1NyYoj6wvm-vgvV74fMiJgd8PJi_DW3P_t2ERI8JS0zvyjzQ3mNrfyKV7ozbjEEV9AEXvN8/s1600/parallel+lines1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1DM5SBeoWNCAN-rNYUoYirGH4vSxQLaNHL6HYkn3EZ_1-tcBwSr_7fTWp07IDbXUIUBpR1NyYoj6wvm-vgvV74fMiJgd8PJi_DW3P_t2ERI8JS0zvyjzQ3mNrfyKV7ozbjEEV9AEXvN8/s400/parallel+lines1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Then, I added perpendicular lines to create a grid.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpBtmnmgiTUvcuM2-Ev6OCoNcTg5qGv9oGpc_jY02z2P3RmBc_8vj1BTvEmahUqkVH6J_ZlXvaKhXHB7dyBGIjEQLL6JWmNJdGeytQybQ1eqIQMANDtj6fDUiqCHaXmC-1YIfFspkvxys/s1600/grid1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpBtmnmgiTUvcuM2-Ev6OCoNcTg5qGv9oGpc_jY02z2P3RmBc_8vj1BTvEmahUqkVH6J_ZlXvaKhXHB7dyBGIjEQLL6JWmNJdGeytQybQ1eqIQMANDtj6fDUiqCHaXmC-1YIfFspkvxys/s400/grid1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I used glace icing (in a flood consistency), to fill in the larger spaces of the heart.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1zLESF78bbJRNg2SH9xV2WXH-qlR1cWESgsmPYzn8Llv4683lRY6DLDbWQlQM72KLku4TaxX9zZjYkwJMUkd-29OobuXQu3g2RW1HvlmK-TfHoCJxekt-peQzajdFE6ZoMlih1px3MBM/s1600/color+flow1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1zLESF78bbJRNg2SH9xV2WXH-qlR1cWESgsmPYzn8Llv4683lRY6DLDbWQlQM72KLku4TaxX9zZjYkwJMUkd-29OobuXQu3g2RW1HvlmK-TfHoCJxekt-peQzajdFE6ZoMlih1px3MBM/s400/color+flow1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Then,
I added dots of icing into the grid, creating a pattern I liked. There
are so many patterns you could make using this technique. Have fun and
get creative! </div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I
noticed that you get a very different look in the lace if you allow the
grid to dry before adding the dots of icing. In this photo, I piped the
dots while the icing of the grid was still wet. You can see how the
design has sort of "melted" together.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA_6aHQp4_woIn5Cx4oVTOR-XPIp3zNklnmmKCIrqB5jKSsT1ZaKkPQcbOo89IURGzSX2socqqB3ERr-h1KCkFavWOCpeBcMpts3ZS8ndiIoAn0NWxL5fMwr70tsxwOilgC3zHEEyCy08/s1600/all+white+lace1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA_6aHQp4_woIn5Cx4oVTOR-XPIp3zNklnmmKCIrqB5jKSsT1ZaKkPQcbOo89IURGzSX2socqqB3ERr-h1KCkFavWOCpeBcMpts3ZS8ndiIoAn0NWxL5fMwr70tsxwOilgC3zHEEyCy08/s400/all+white+lace1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
On
this cookie, I allowed the grid to dry before piping the dots. The dots
stayed separate and are quite distinct. Honestly, I think both
techniques made a pretty cookie, and I can't decide which I like better.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiln3cHSVYQbuLb61PJ3aAh2TepAmwq370YvxL63DifcbJ9B4jF8A6SfAhCg0xYYPpN73I9Hd8bRmIGZ0TS-QWp65VjZHz_64HHO92SF1adqXLJKaSEXTGR1TJTOpPIAvhMgfyDYz7IsIQ/s1600/all+white1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiln3cHSVYQbuLb61PJ3aAh2TepAmwq370YvxL63DifcbJ9B4jF8A6SfAhCg0xYYPpN73I9Hd8bRmIGZ0TS-QWp65VjZHz_64HHO92SF1adqXLJKaSEXTGR1TJTOpPIAvhMgfyDYz7IsIQ/s400/all+white1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
For
the gold lettering, I mixed a little brown food coloring into the royal
icing to get a tan color. I piped the words with the tan royal icing
and allowed it to dry. Then, I mixed gold luster dust with a little
vanilla extract and used that to "paint" the words. You can see the
difference the luster dust makes here, where I only used luster dust on
the letter "o" in "world."</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5vGO9F8hoZt6PIBpwvl2XgIeU179ZPBMUnScaF4wQmtt2odCC0X4FUxfM1GIaM0OOW89U3Y-EyG-WCUquMR6C2sk0Lx5v6sjCHiAk8mOyAGDFrunojpzu-rlM0AVMi3DyX-Qhwrz_0rs/s1600/luster+dust1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5vGO9F8hoZt6PIBpwvl2XgIeU179ZPBMUnScaF4wQmtt2odCC0X4FUxfM1GIaM0OOW89U3Y-EyG-WCUquMR6C2sk0Lx5v6sjCHiAk8mOyAGDFrunojpzu-rlM0AVMi3DyX-Qhwrz_0rs/s400/luster+dust1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
I
used zip-top baggies with the corners cut off as the icing bags for
this entire project. If you would like to use piping bags and tips, I
would suggest using a #1 or #2 writing tip.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I loved making these cookies and thinking about the women I'd be giving them to. I hope they know how much they are loved. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
STATS:</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Nadia's Video: "How to Make a Lace Cookie" Tutorial</div>
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sKjM7Wm845w">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sKjM7Wm845w</a><br />
<br />
Chocolate Roll-Out Cookies<br />
<a href="http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Chocolate-Roll-Out-Cookies-240668">http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Chocolate-Roll-Out-Cookies-240668</a><br />
<br />
How to "flood" a cookie with icing<br />
<a href="http://www.sweetsugarbelle.com/blog/2011/07/outlining-and-filling-cookies-with-royal-icing/">http://www.sweetsugarbelle.com/blog/2011/07/outlining-and-filling-cookies-with-royal-icing/</a><br />
<br />
Royal Icing<br />
<a href="http://letsgetcaking.blogspot.com/2012/12/royal-icing-recipe.html">http://letsgetcaking.blogspot.com/2012/12/royal-icing-recipe.html</a><br />
<br />
Glacé Icing<br />
<a href="http://www.thatreallyfrostsme.com/2010/05/glace-icing.html">http://www.thatreallyfrostsme.com/2010/05/glace-icing.html</a>Arianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489797588515677730noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1132336137875520261.post-70816180473137145832012-12-12T05:09:00.000-08:002013-01-07T20:35:38.405-08:00Royal Icing Recipe<div style="text-align: center;">
I found that this recipe for royal icing is the perfect consistency for decorating intricate cookies, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
like these Lace Cookies I made for Christmas.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://letsgetcaking.blogspot.com/2012/12/lace-cookies-for-christmas.html">Lace Cookies for Christmas</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt8CJ5HEsMwxM5OY6Eb5gMQCkbP_sVmQgZp2HvT_n-X9q1LCbdNS_5G4GGD5-DM5k9M6ivSKMyR1flrfnRxue_ALdWKKRP0p6bckdiEiKR-hF6VRYqb8p3VAC0Kbhh44dOYv-pohNVc-8/s1600/finished1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="357" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt8CJ5HEsMwxM5OY6Eb5gMQCkbP_sVmQgZp2HvT_n-X9q1LCbdNS_5G4GGD5-DM5k9M6ivSKMyR1flrfnRxue_ALdWKKRP0p6bckdiEiKR-hF6VRYqb8p3VAC0Kbhh44dOYv-pohNVc-8/s400/finished1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>Royal Icing</b></div>
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1 lb. powdered sugar</div>
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3 egg whites (at room temperature)</div>
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1/2 tsp. cream of tartar</div>
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1 Tbsp. of water<b></b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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Slowly combine all ingredients in your mixer and blend until smooth (1-2 minutes). Then, turn your mixer to high and beat for 5-7 minutes. Cover tightly with plastic wrap when not using because the icing will dry out very quickly.<b> </b>If stored for longer than a few hours, you will need to re-mix the icing, as it will separate.<b> </b>Can be stored in the refrigerator for 1 week.</div>
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Yield: 3 cups<b></b></div>
Arianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489797588515677730noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1132336137875520261.post-35834475328096526162012-12-10T08:30:00.001-08:002012-12-10T08:30:24.498-08:00Etched Glass Tutorial<div style="text-align: center;">
If you're still thinking of Christmas gift ideas and you like being crafty, you might want to try etching glass. I was surprised how easy it is to do, and it's a great way to personalize gifts. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj35lAFIuyiG-5M0FZkgJcx4AmCTFWVnwSYwuiHLC2IFDUs8E18MKa5Dyo1-yye2TlJxKRQZPjtGfLzJwzC95S_Xm8LZD1YwSELz1beTJAO6B2g7fbyv76_-TFXI60vKopcxBOSp2FiVZs/s1600/joy+with+candle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj35lAFIuyiG-5M0FZkgJcx4AmCTFWVnwSYwuiHLC2IFDUs8E18MKa5Dyo1-yye2TlJxKRQZPjtGfLzJwzC95S_Xm8LZD1YwSELz1beTJAO6B2g7fbyv76_-TFXI60vKopcxBOSp2FiVZs/s400/joy+with+candle.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
You just need a few things to get started:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1. A glass etching compound. I used Armour Etch, which I found at Hobby Lobby. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2. Any glass or mirror you would like to etch. (I used votive candle holders this time.)</div>
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3. Adhesive vinyl alphabet stencils (also found at Hobby Lobby).</div>
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4. Cotton swabs.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8kmUWtN5jP7bP9pPelU58ZMXDPhEA0f0FzhvkR_efUzcfc3-S3xQ66ZKJHTMwyrcA7LcpUthWffEUBsgFN-N1Cn6Yx97-oj-dKSEL68meYyRlL0yBgRB6rz4LlBKelU3qiXyspYQnysM/s1600/items+needed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8kmUWtN5jP7bP9pPelU58ZMXDPhEA0f0FzhvkR_efUzcfc3-S3xQ66ZKJHTMwyrcA7LcpUthWffEUBsgFN-N1Cn6Yx97-oj-dKSEL68meYyRlL0yBgRB6rz4LlBKelU3qiXyspYQnysM/s400/items+needed.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Position the vinyl letters however you like onto the glass. Make sure they are smoothed down well. You don't want the Armour Etch to spread under the vinyl.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJiY-nqYxkb22HNfrdjqR8j7nrXBJm9LO8cc-m7Ar7XQdJuQFzC1Pp9TgLLEC8pRFrL0sSu2BGYpUpxH311Y_gykmDwPZ_3Bwlclr5p28u16Wr40SDUCOFqdB_Zx-rtBsmFAASzDpCk08/s1600/place+letters.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJiY-nqYxkb22HNfrdjqR8j7nrXBJm9LO8cc-m7Ar7XQdJuQFzC1Pp9TgLLEC8pRFrL0sSu2BGYpUpxH311Y_gykmDwPZ_3Bwlclr5p28u16Wr40SDUCOFqdB_Zx-rtBsmFAASzDpCk08/s400/place+letters.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Dip the cotton swab into the bottle of Armour Etch, and use it to spread the etching compound into the stencils. It will be thick, like the consistency of glue. Be generous, and make sure you get the compound into all of the corners. Allow it to sit for 5 minutes, then wash off the compound in the sink with soap and water. (<b>Be sure to wear gloves when you do this and do not allow the compound to touch your skin.</b> <b>Also, make sure to read the warning label on the bottle.</b>) </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5yBbAaN-EWaj0OU5SrZ5wTIRHOZLLvl0XQm9638i4d2Xt973PPfNcCtOTMd8pauKy5A26_i5Wc5M7ooyJ2c-LefX7JqJeZuW5stHIHLFp1lDATw8S24s3SyHslLOlZkk9L9JFo15vY2I/s1600/etching+compound.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5yBbAaN-EWaj0OU5SrZ5wTIRHOZLLvl0XQm9638i4d2Xt973PPfNcCtOTMd8pauKy5A26_i5Wc5M7ooyJ2c-LefX7JqJeZuW5stHIHLFp1lDATw8S24s3SyHslLOlZkk9L9JFo15vY2I/s400/etching+compound.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Peel off the vinyl stencils. The stencils can be washed and dried and reused multiple times.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLT79ME1ZemfzV5SIctbieqjnrHLAq2MU59FwuUi9qIYLAYxscPBcBwZKTc2HCqQ7KP5PfPA23owhZuO9Yz8o9vBm7eGATXm8WJMchJhgPvXeXRPUfK3VzrKFLdqKnbP_w9XcFAi3q1uk/s1600/joy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLT79ME1ZemfzV5SIctbieqjnrHLAq2MU59FwuUi9qIYLAYxscPBcBwZKTc2HCqQ7KP5PfPA23owhZuO9Yz8o9vBm7eGATXm8WJMchJhgPvXeXRPUfK3VzrKFLdqKnbP_w9XcFAi3q1uk/s400/joy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I cut a square of cellophane to put inside the candle holder. Then I added red and green M&M's and tied it up with red and green ribbon.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheYxmV0wnRtykAZr3JJ_9uA_Ue0WIQ-UpnxVIgnn4xTCTpx4eZwt8tOtqqrm0EHK4IfTais7WCXc81HwRYgI6G8AGRy0ngsjUtXLA8NYkZx0Sywplak96u6WO-74nBd3-Mlzj8TS6S8bI/s1600/candy+filled.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheYxmV0wnRtykAZr3JJ_9uA_Ue0WIQ-UpnxVIgnn4xTCTpx4eZwt8tOtqqrm0EHK4IfTais7WCXc81HwRYgI6G8AGRy0ngsjUtXLA8NYkZx0Sywplak96u6WO-74nBd3-Mlzj8TS6S8bI/s400/candy+filled.jpg" width="295" /></a></div>
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I bought the 3 oz. jar of etching compound last year to use for some Christmas presents. I was able to use it to personalize 4 pie plates, 3 glass platters, and the front of a toaster oven. My friend also borrowed the bottle and letters for some of her own projects. I used that same bottle to etch five candle holders this year, and I still have a lot of the etching compound left. So, it goes a long way.</div>
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Here's a picture of one of the pie plates I etched last year:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4sdvWNO7uM_8v13_g1POwqlQrmlSUuolcQXY3CoaJFXHMFhri_SwHdgStjvUvUnDWmm211l8BJQtHPc3nIdAxxCJu5NCRaa_NHz0bhils9UI7LjhnTSzWxc1p2dvSKp2vYqsujerUvVc/s1600/glassetching.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4sdvWNO7uM_8v13_g1POwqlQrmlSUuolcQXY3CoaJFXHMFhri_SwHdgStjvUvUnDWmm211l8BJQtHPc3nIdAxxCJu5NCRaa_NHz0bhils9UI7LjhnTSzWxc1p2dvSKp2vYqsujerUvVc/s400/glassetching.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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My husband wanted to get our daughter her very own oven for Christmas last year, so we bought her a toaster oven. We gave her some baking mixes and pans to go along with it. We decided to personalize it so she would know it really was just for her. She loves it!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNJVZm-Yzvd4qzPsCRD3d4O2arcVNtns44LasiEUzCf0qfeFHhbXDIgsm3DJZ2QfB43A2iOIUvwxCm4uubDsiJFZHVDdtiBEKkzcuF_UdRUlWBPhuoWa6VXrlRcWv90QPTMC-N5JwN7SU/s1600/Hannah+oven.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNJVZm-Yzvd4qzPsCRD3d4O2arcVNtns44LasiEUzCf0qfeFHhbXDIgsm3DJZ2QfB43A2iOIUvwxCm4uubDsiJFZHVDdtiBEKkzcuF_UdRUlWBPhuoWa6VXrlRcWv90QPTMC-N5JwN7SU/s400/Hannah+oven.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i><b>Merry Christmas!</b></i></div>
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Arianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489797588515677730noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1132336137875520261.post-41648868033214236082012-12-06T06:55:00.000-08:002012-12-06T06:56:58.210-08:00Joy to Everyone This ChristmasI love the Christmas season! My kids and I enjoy watching this video every year before Christmas. Each time we watch it, I can't help feeling the love my Savior has for me. What beautiful people our Heavenly Father has created across the globe! I hope that each of us can feel the love of our Heavenly Father and our Savior this Christmas. I truly believe that they know and care about each one of us.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/fw1BwFp-Ojk" width="560"></iframe><br />
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<i><b>Merry Christmas!</b></i><br />
Arianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489797588515677730noreply@blogger.com0