Something Festive!

A couple months ago my cousin sent me this link:http://www.blogher.com/customizable-fabric-scrap-wreath and I was inspired to make a Christmassy version!

I got a metal frame at Michaels for about $5 and then went to Fabricland where all the holiday cottons were on sale in the month of November. I choose 11 designs and had them cut the minimum amount - 4inches - of each. That only cost about $7 - so for only $12 I had my supplies ready to go. 

All I had to do was cut the strips and tie them on to the frame - which sounds easy - but took about 3 hours! Thankfully I just put on some good tv and got it done :) 

I've noticed since there are lots of blogs where people used a metal coat hanger, which you could also do but I really liked the depth the store bought metal frame added.

Oh and the moose in the centre was also from Michaels - part of a felt garland that I cut apart and made into some ornaments.

Apple & Pumpkin Butter

Inspired by the load of apples I had from apple picking at Thanksgiving, I decided to try out making some apple butter. Using this recipe:

http://www.mybakingaddiction.com/crock-pot-slow-cooker-apple-butter-recipe/ I put it in the slow cooker over night, and it couldn't have been easier. I was then inspired to try some other flavors so tried out this one http://www.skinnytaste.com/2010/10/pumpkin-butter.html 

(this is also my new favourite food blog btw).

Both are super yummy!

What do you do with apple or pumpkin butter you ask?

Well, you can put it in cute little jars like I did and give them to your friend for their birthday :)
Or, if you want to eat it all yourself - you can spoon it into your oatmeal, mix it with plain yogurt, put it on toast or a cracker, spread the apple butter on brie and bake it with almonds for a delicious appetizer....or any other creative ideas you can come up with. It's so tasty you'll want to find all the ways you can to use it up!

I recently did another batch of the apple butter, and because I wanted to give it as Christmas gifts, I boiled it as you would when canning things - so that it will preserve longer.

Try it out, you will not be disappointed!