Monday, December 31, 2012

Celebrations: bring on the bling for new year’s eve


Here are a few New Year’s Eve ideas that you could put together in no time. I blinged out a few serving pieces and glasses that will make my New Year’s extra sparkly.

Friday, December 28, 2012

The Inspiration Board: link party spotlight ~82~ & a new year roundup

Thank you to everyone who stopped by this week and shared a project on the Inspiration Board. It was a smaller, more intimate gathering this week but as always, all the projects were wonderful.

As we head into the New Year, I want to thank you all for your visits, comments, links and friendship. Some days I can’t believe how many of you stop by to visit my little corner of the creative world here at homework. I’m looking forward to another year of creative sharing with all of you.

As we head into the last weekend of 2012, enjoy these projects in the spotlight this week.


a1A stunning holiday treat box by Sandy’s Space. Chocolate truffles are nestled inside the beautiful box made out of folded and cut paper with a self locking top. Pretty pins add a festive touch. Sandy always creates the most beautiful paper projects.

Thursday, December 27, 2012

Wednesday, December 26, 2012

Homework Dress Code: holiday style with No nonsense

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of No nonsense for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.



I have to confess, although I used to be really stylish and into clothes my everyday-work-from-home style has become boring. One of my New Year’s resolutions is to make an effort to break free from my typical yoga pants and t-shirt uniform.

Tuesday, December 25, 2012

The Inspiration Board: link party [82]

 
Christmas 6
Merry Christmas! And welcome to the Inspiration Board link party. I decided to go ahead and pre-schedule this link party since many of you may not celebrate Christmas or if you do, you can always join the party in the next few days.

Monday, December 24, 2012

Friday, December 21, 2012

The Inspiration Board: link party spotlight ~81~

Welcome to the Inspiration Board spotlight. If you linked a project here this week, I want to thank you so much for sharing your creativity and inspiring me. With so many link parties available, I’m so happy to be on your link party list.

Well, it’s Friday and we have one weekend before Christmas. It’s time to kick it in high gear and finish baking the treats, wrapping the gifts and making final preparations for a holiday feast. At least, that’s what I’ll be doing this weekend.

While I’m running around in a frenzy of tissue paper, ribbon, measuring cups and last minute glue gunning -  grab a mug of hot chocolate and check out the projects in the spotlight this week. There are a few Christmas projects included but for the most part, I tried to pick things that would work for New Years and beyond. Enjoy the inspiration!



Thanks to Imprintalish, I’ve added another item to my list this weekend. These homemade peppermint patties look too good to pass up. I need to make these, oh and then eat them.

Thursday, December 20, 2012

Celebrations: a glittery new year countdown


Have I mentioned my glitter obsession this holiday season? Maybe once or twice or ten times. I’ve been sticking glitter to a lot of things but this by far has been the most fun.

Wednesday, December 19, 2012

Little Crafts: kiwi crate holiday fun

Kiwi Crate 12I’ve mentioned before that my son is now a teenager – so when Kiwi Crate asked me to review their holiday craft crate geared for kids age 3-7, I had no choice but to borrow some little crafters. My friend Katy also has a teenage son but she has lots of nieces and nephews who were happy to help out. How cute are these happy crafters?

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

The Inspiration Board: link party [81]

Thank you for joining me today for the Inspiration Board link party. I deleted the party introduction that I had previously written and since there are no words to convey what we all feel since Friday's events, I'm posting this photo of Forget Me Nots from my garden.



Thank you again for joining me - I can't wait to see what creative inspiration you are sharing.

Monday, December 17, 2012

Saturday, December 15, 2012

Good Taste: holiday favorites with philadelphia cream cheese

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of PHILADELPHIA cream cheese for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

I have to confess, one of my favorite things about the holidays is all the yummy food. Don’t get me wrong, I am very into the true meaning of the holidays but a ridiculous amount of delicious food is prepared, shared, given and eaten during the holiday season. And I enjoy every bite!


Friday, December 14, 2012

The Inspiration Board: link party spotlight ~80~

Happy Friday friends! I’m so happy you stopped by to see all the beautiful projects in the spotlight today. The Inspiration Board was brimming with glitter, evergreen, lights, and wonderful confections. Thank you to everyone who shared their wonderful projects. As always, I was so inspired by your creativity. Here are a few in the spotlight today.


BW-fudgeB-tallBlack and white fudge from Jen’s Favorite Cookies. Fudge is such a holiday tradition and this black and white version is so elegant. A fantastic homemade gift or a touch of class for a holiday buffet.


Wednesday, December 12, 2012

Good Taste: enjoy the holidays with an edward’s pie {giveaway}

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Edwards for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.



One of my favorite desserts is a chocolate cream pie. I consider it in a totally different category than fruit pies - I love those too but chocolate cream pies are so light and fluffy. And although I enjoy baking, it’s hard to find time around the holidays to make everything homemade.


Sew & Tell: needle felted penguin

Have you ever tried needle felting? This is something that I’ve been wanting to try for awhile but I never got around to. Thanks to EK Success Brands, I was able to make this little penguin fairly easily.


Tuesday, December 11, 2012

The Inspiration Board: link party [80]

Welcome to the Inspiration Board link party! If you're new, I'm so happy you found me. If you've been coming around for awhile, you know how much I appreciate you! I've been so amazed by the holiday inspiration that has been linked up the in the past few weeks and I can't wait to see what everyone has been up to.

Tart 2_thumb[5]Vintage Tart Tin Placecards – from my archives

A few rules:
  • Link up your own project - something you created, made, did, etc.
  • Grab a “homework” button and include it somewhere on your blog.
  • Follow homework. You’ll find the “Follow via Google Friend Connect” gadget on the right sidebar.
  • Please visit the other links that intrigue you and make someone smile with a comment or two.
  • If you have a giveaway, I have a separate giveaway link party - see the Giveaway Link Party tab at the top of the page.

Monday, December 10, 2012

Au Naturale: frosty apples

Here’s another item leftover from my fall décor. These beautiful Golden Delicious apples were part of my Thanksgiving tablescape. Of course, at the time, the were unadorned and hanging out with white pumpkins and acorns.

Friday, December 7, 2012

The Inspiration Board: link party spotlight ~79~

Happy Friday everyone. So… how are we all doing on our holiday to-do lists? Anyone done? Not me – I’ve made a little progress but I’m still behind. I really, really need to get an earlier start next year. I say that every year but I really, really mean it this time.
 
I know I’m not the only one who is crazy busy so a big thank you for sharing your amazing creativity on the Inspiration Board this week. The projects, crafts, diy, recipes and ideas are so inspiring. I wish I had time to make each and every one. Here are some of the projects in the spotlight this week.



Ice Lantern 1Oh My – Creative made holiday ice lanterns that are just stunning. What an impact these would have for a holiday gathering. Head over to for the full tutorial and tips to keep the lanterns from melting.

Thursday, December 6, 2012

Inkling: glitter tags and boxes

I’m really into glitter this season! Here’s a quick and easy project that will add some sparkle to your plain tags and boxes.

Wednesday, December 5, 2012

homework: reading {quirk books free homemade sampler}

Book Cover
This is such a treat. Quirk Books has released a free downloadable DIY Gift Guide. They’ve taken some of their most popular crafts from their fun quirky books and made us a free sampler.

Tuesday, December 4, 2012

Fresh Look: Color+Plus with Lamps Plus



Lamps Collage
I’m thinking about changing the color scheme in my living room. For years, my living room has been beige and white with touches of blue and gold. I need to possibly break out of my neutral phase and get bold.

The Inspiration Board: link party [79]

Frosted 3_thumb[3]Photo {from my archives – little frosty trees}

Welcome to the Inspiration Board link party. I'm so happy you could join me. It's a crazy, busy time of year and I'm so grateful for all you who take the time to stop by and share your creativity or leave a sweet comment.

Monday, December 3, 2012

Celebrations: it takes a glitter village

Every year I like to change up my holiday décor. Some years have been all natural elements but this year I’ve gone glitter crazy!


Friday, November 30, 2012

The Inspiration Board: link party spotlight ~78~

It’s Friday! The last Friday of the month and the last day of November. It’s “holiday go” time!  I’ve made some progress on my holiday lists but I still have a long way to go.

Thank you to everyone who linked up a project on the Inspiration Board this week. I know it’s a crazy, busy time and I so appreciate you taking the time to stop by, share a project, leave a comment or just visit  I’m filing away ideas, tips and recipes from all your wonderful creativity. Thank you so much for sharing.

Here are some of the inspiring projects in the spotlight this week.



advent calendar 12345A fantastic advent calendar by Meeha Meeha. Little bark stars and wood hearts simply adhered to the wall. Fun little felt reindeer and pretty ribbon add a touch of color.


Thursday, November 29, 2012

Etceteras: pumpkin stems–planning for next year




Thanksgiving was only a week ago but I feel like I’m so behind on Christmas and holiday decorating. I did take down my fall table décor {above} but the pumpkins have been sitting on the counter for a week. The reason I didn’t throw them away is because I save the stems. Real pumpkin stems can be used to make beautiful fabric pumpkins.

Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Celebrations: ribbon roll advent calendar

Every year I try to come up with a different type of advent calendar or Christmas countdown. This one doesn’t involve treats so it won’t be very popular at my house. But that’s okay – I like it.

Tuesday, November 27, 2012

The Inspiration Board: link party [78]

Please welcome my newest sponsor Brydferth. Brydferth, the Welsh word for beautiful, is an Etsy Shop specializing in rosette couture for bridal and everyday. Using only the highest quality fabrics and hardware she can find, Hailey Rose of Brydferth creates blooms of happiness for women to celebrate life.

Brydferth - Celebrate Beautifully ~ Live Romantically™


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Welcome to the Inspiration Board link party. I'm so happy you could join me. If you are here in the U.S. I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving. I'm still living on leftover turkey, stuffing and pie. So while I get another piece of pie, link up your latest and check out some of the other projects.

Monday, November 26, 2012

Celebrations: sparkle & glitter with Tulip Shimmer

It’s that glittery time of year. I’m usually not a sparkle and glitter type of person – except around the holidays. Then I love the look of silver, white and iridescent glitter.

Saturday, November 24, 2012

The Dirt: good things at Curbside Chaos

This post brought to you by Bulbs. Dig, Drop, Done.. All opinions are 100% mine.

210091Can you imagine winning a $5,000 yard makeover. There are so many things I would do to our yard – starting with new privacy trees or hedges along our back yard wall. From there I would redo all my flower beds so I could have beautiful cut flowers year round. It would be amazing!

Friday, November 23, 2012

The Inspiration Board: link party spotlight ~77~

Happy Day After Thanksgiving everyone. Has everyone recovered? It was a lot of prep but worth every bite and calorie! And the best part – leftovers!

I’m thankful for so many things, including all of you who come by to visit and link up your projects on the Inspiration Board. I can’t tell you how much I enjoy going through the links and learning new things, pinning ideas and discovering new sites. Thank you – thank you!

So grab a turkey sandwich and check out the projects in the spotlight this week.


Thanksgiving Chalkboard 1A beautiful Thanksgiving chalkboard by The Concrete Cottage. I don’t think I’ll ever get tired of the chalkboard look and I love the artwork and expression on this one.

Thursday, November 22, 2012

Celebrations: happy thanksgiving leftovers and a giveaway

Happy Thanksgiving to all of you in the U.S. I hope you’re enjoying your day with family, friends and of course, food.

Once the dishes are done and you’ve had a second helping of pie, I hope you have to time to enjoy this round up of Thanksgiving leftover ideas. Plus, once you've perused this round up, scroll to the bottom for a special Thankful Giveaway.


leftovers presentation 2 blogPop over to Jacolyn Murphy to see how she created this ultimate Thanksgiving Leftover Sandwich. Oh my – if I weren’t so full, I’d make one of these right now. However, tomorrow is a new day!


Wednesday, November 21, 2012

Tuesday, November 20, 2012

The Inspiration Board: link party [77]


Welcome to the Inspiration Board link party. My favorite day when I get to see what you've been creating. I'm prepping for Thanksgiving, so in between shopping, cleaning , prepping, baking and cooking, I'd love the distraction of all of your fabulous projects.
A few rules:
  • Link up your own project - something you created, made, did, etc.
  • Grab a “homework” button and include it somewhere on your blog.
  • Follow homework.  You’ll find the “Follow via Google Friend Connect” gadget on the right sidebar.
  • Please visit the other links that intrigue you and make someone smile with a comment or two.
If you have a giveaway, I have a separate giveaway link party -  see the Giveaway Link Party tab at the top of the page.

Monday, November 19, 2012

Au Naturale: acorns in the snow


A friend of mine recently mentioned all the deer and wildlife she’s been seeing while hiking the trails near her home. But what really caught my attention was the mention of all the acorns the wildlife are munching on.

Sunday, November 18, 2012

Good Taste: good morning with Dunkin’ Donuts coffee



Sugar 8_thumb[3]Photo Source: homework

We are a coffee family. Coffee is a must-have every morning. I usually give myself extra time in the morning to enjoy my coffee – usually perusing blogs and creative sites - before I rush out the door. It’s a little bit of “me” time in the morning.

But I miss having coffee with my husband. He leaves for work very early so we don’t even see each other most mornings and the weekend mornings have become equally busy.

Saturday, November 17, 2012

Inkling: I {heart} Sharpie®

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Sharpie®. All opinions are 100% mine.

I wouldn’t say I was Sharpie® obsessed but it’s very deep love. I always feel very empowered when I use one of my Sharpies because, you know, it’s permanent. These are some of my Sharpies.

Friday, November 16, 2012

The Inspiration Board: link party spotlight ~76~

Hello friends and happy Friday! A big thank you to all of you that shared your wonderful creations on the Inspiration Board this week. My mind is jumping back and forth and side to side between Thanksgiving menu planning, fall décor, holiday shopping and holiday décor.

I’m hosting Thanksgiving so I can’t start on holiday décor until the stuffing is packed up in Tupperware and the dishes are done. How about you? Are you ready for the next month of madness? I’m going to really try to slow down, enjoy and not get stressed. Who’s with me?

As we ponder on that, here are some of the beautiful projects in the spotlight this week.


Furry 3 037Furry baby booties! Crochet Dreamz used eyelash yarn to create a faux fur embellishment on these adorable baby booties. Dress them up or dress them down – any baby will be styling in these booties.

Thursday, November 15, 2012

Inkling: owl lovers calendar


I’m really excited to once again share with you the Owl Lovers Calendar. This is the third year that I’ve shared this special project and every year, it gets better and better.

Wednesday, November 14, 2012

Etceteras: faux wood leaves

I’m loving fall right now. Every time I open a magazine, I see dozens of great ideas and my project list is growing. This project was quick and easy so it made it to the top of the list and was quickly checked off. 


Tuesday, November 13, 2012

The Inspiration Board: link party [76]

 
Coil 9_thumb[2]

Welcome to the Inspiration Board link party. I'm so happy you could join me. We're just about mid-way through November and traveling at warp speed toward the holidays. I better get serious about my to-do list.

And while I continue to procrastinate about all the things I need to do, I'd love for you to distract me with your latest creativity.

Monday, November 12, 2012

Etceteras: martha stewart circle edge punch


Today I’m testing out a new crafting tool by Martha Stewart Crafts. It’s new and completely innovative – an edge punch that cuts a continuous die-cut circular border.


Friday, November 9, 2012

The Inspiration Board: link party spotlight ~75~

Happy Friday everyone. I hope you had a fantastic week filled with fun and creativity. Thank you to everyone who linked up a project on the Inspiration Board this week. There were so many beautiful projects and I loved relaxing with my coffee and checking them all out.

For those of us in the United States, we’re on the homestretch toward Thanksgiving. I can hardly wait for turkey, gravy, stuffing and best of all - pie!  Wishing you all a fantastic weekend and I hope to see you back here next week. Until then, enjoy these projects in the spotlight.



IMG_7398-001This is Happiness set such a beautiful Thanksgiving tablescape. I love the sprigs of green and white plates against the dark wood. So pretty and serene.


Thursday, November 8, 2012

Fresh Look: my first roadside rescue {bookcase makeover}

Blog Bookshelf Makeover
First let me start by saying, I tip my hat to you ladies and gents that do these roadside rescues on a regular basis. I’ve seen your photos. I’ve read your tutorials. You grab the item at the side of the road. Bring it home. Sand it up, add some pretty chalk paint and show us your beautiful new piece of furniture.

Now I’m even more impressed with you diy rescuers because it’s a lot of work. There are creepy crawlies to deal with. Water damage. Ugly old stain that won’t go away. Storage issues and weather conditions to consider. I somehow muddled through all of those and finished my first roadside rescue.

Tuesday, November 6, 2012

The Inspiration Board: link party {75}


This post is sponsored by Lifestyle Crafts
 

Use promo code HOMEWORK for 20% off.


Welcome to the Inspiration Board. Thank you so much for stopping by. Whether you’re sharing a project or visiting for inspiration, I truly appreciate the fact that you are here.
It’s definitely going to be a mad dash between now and the new year Shopping, decorating, food prep and more. Every year I vow to get an earlier start but it never happens. Are you ready? What have you been working on? I’ll be featuring projects on Friday.