tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44032128390256409282024-02-19T02:02:44.178-06:00Belly Feathers :: Handmade Party Ideas Blog by Betsy PruittCreative Party Ideas with a Homemade Spin by Betsy Pruitt<br><br>
Under the name Belly Feathers, I offer highly personalized and beautifully detailed handmade invitations, party favors, party decorations, and more.<br><br>
The concept of this blog is to share party planning ideas to help you add a personal touch to your parties and to highlight my <b><a href="http://www.bellyfeathers.com/2009/10/new-service-available-party-planning.html">party planning</a></b> and custom design services.Belly Feathershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15786347349578314528noreply@blogger.comBlogger104125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4403212839025640928.post-77751609638390822522013-08-31T11:23:00.003-05:002013-08-31T11:38:49.222-05:00College Football Saturday in the SouthYou just can't bottle the excitement of the <b>first Saturday of the college football season in the South</b>. It's the day people have been waiting for all year.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhilxILVXT02_UcC6jX3FFdTvqlhzVD1p-FM-woCVphfbIbd6O-cGjNK-4TnBpj5hcgnqXiKFsNkWd3SpJpXAZURMl8WZ9xkmuDre6Fdk2HSR4GWW3XtjPQdqEoCPqF56y-dtjRR-MG8dU/s1600/alabama-football-fans-roll-tide.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Alabama Football Fans - Roll Tide!" border="0" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhilxILVXT02_UcC6jX3FFdTvqlhzVD1p-FM-woCVphfbIbd6O-cGjNK-4TnBpj5hcgnqXiKFsNkWd3SpJpXAZURMl8WZ9xkmuDre6Fdk2HSR4GWW3XtjPQdqEoCPqF56y-dtjRR-MG8dU/s320/alabama-football-fans-roll-tide.jpg" title="" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Photo by <a href="http://clickphotodesigns.com/" target="_blank">Click Photo Designs by Sarah Brewer</a></i></td></tr>
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Your internal clock wakes you up in time to plop in front of the TV for the start of ESPN's College Game Day, so you can soak in the excitement from the commentators and fans, who are just as optimistic about their team's fate for the season as you are. Personally, I love reading all of the crazy signs the fans hold up in the background.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4VQnHopyb8k4jiYaGRzsso6VHzyAfuI1ioW_eTM6itRsI_g5ZIFzIaghV335g6SCswX2ROSYyh9Eogc6d7jWrZLk_07s88VtlCTMF7tFUDF_VZYkjSAlza6z7yGtoEEkshf0AgdQQGhQ/s1600/college-game-day-signs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="ESPN College Game Day Signs" border="0" height="165" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4VQnHopyb8k4jiYaGRzsso6VHzyAfuI1ioW_eTM6itRsI_g5ZIFzIaghV335g6SCswX2ROSYyh9Eogc6d7jWrZLk_07s88VtlCTMF7tFUDF_VZYkjSAlza6z7yGtoEEkshf0AgdQQGhQ/s320/college-game-day-signs.jpg" title="" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>This LSU sign from 2012 still cracks me up!</i></td></tr>
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In Alabama, the season really starts the Friday before. You pick out your outfit for school or work to show off your team colors, so there's no mistake where your allegiances lie. I usually opt for something with over-the-top houndstooth and red. Here's what I wore yesterday complete with a little elephant necklace. I even paint my nails red before every season starts...to match most of my outfits for the season, of course.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuFnAfPA-bC-OjzUhyVJ79strZihwnMBLjdVZ8c4xvHDF9CxfkLmZoBFOjor26BVxDzvjdwHBiU7nXCJt3msRdR3DAC_mEj41bLvF-pJpGQTcrjXScn66HbirSJVIWBKRJ_hImYLwqwzE/s1600/alabama-houndstooth-roll-tide.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Alabama Houndstooth - Roll Tide!" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuFnAfPA-bC-OjzUhyVJ79strZihwnMBLjdVZ8c4xvHDF9CxfkLmZoBFOjor26BVxDzvjdwHBiU7nXCJt3msRdR3DAC_mEj41bLvF-pJpGQTcrjXScn66HbirSJVIWBKRJ_hImYLwqwzE/s400/alabama-houndstooth-roll-tide.jpg" title="" width="266" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgekwQnrR-a8HSb__6e7K4TVVgfoiwZl_5K00of0uP3wNl3bBu98xyK9aYLgLQ4tqeqRv6w8qUbHtlMhjEYsyl5HsXPpm5BXjIGj6fKPM1OlxoEipkZeffE1OKzqDBDomTAU-yWRf6UXno/s1600/houndstooth-flip-flops-lucky.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Lucky Houndstooth Flip Flops" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgekwQnrR-a8HSb__6e7K4TVVgfoiwZl_5K00of0uP3wNl3bBu98xyK9aYLgLQ4tqeqRv6w8qUbHtlMhjEYsyl5HsXPpm5BXjIGj6fKPM1OlxoEipkZeffE1OKzqDBDomTAU-yWRf6UXno/s320/houndstooth-flip-flops-lucky.jpg" title="" width="320" /></a></div>
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In case you haven't guessed or aren't a college football fan yourself, I roll with the Crimson Tide. I'm a proud graduate of The University of Alabama. Our mascot is an elephant, Big Al to be exact. And, the houndstooth obsession is inspired by our legendary coach Bear Bryant's signature hat.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW7KsOQm-Lb8QpEJ9TCWQkGI692NvKA8yv8R5YsonRo115E2vzU-ssNhXwUfPQJdfpAbSwaHNHeiFWan6tTQPJxSuz6tb9aiMuzbUiiEOvju69RTiWFuwOwG7gEMbxUytMwQJn8t-Xe0A/s1600/crimson-tide-football-fans.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Crimson Tide Football Fans" border="0" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW7KsOQm-Lb8QpEJ9TCWQkGI692NvKA8yv8R5YsonRo115E2vzU-ssNhXwUfPQJdfpAbSwaHNHeiFWan6tTQPJxSuz6tb9aiMuzbUiiEOvju69RTiWFuwOwG7gEMbxUytMwQJn8t-Xe0A/s320/crimson-tide-football-fans.jpg" title="" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
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Fanatical support of your team starts early in the South. I remember my first day of third grade at a new school in Alabama. The first question the kids asked me was if I was for Alabama or Auburn. In Alabama, you make a choice between our two major universities - bitter rivals. Apparently, that was the determining factor in whether we could be friends or not. I was already crushing on a little boy that was wearing an Alabama shirt that day, so I made my choice...and it stuck.<br />
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At our house, we're a little superstitious, too. Both my husband and I have lucky shoes that must be worn at least once on game day...not necessarily during the game. I also have a particular Vera Bradley houndstooth purse that I must purchase every year. Even though it has been discontinued, I spend all year stalking my next purchase of one on eBay because I generally wear it out by the end of the season. We've won National Championships the last two years, since I started using these purses, so I'm not going to stop now. I also have a matching wallet, which I've used both years...so maybe that's really the lucky charm.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXdSXCUnuI0BMDXNrWX6FCJDf0vvpFPPkBR6sBSzfBJGAuSt_9J1i83zCtLNIzfnx0f8ZvUygsESRTL4wRUaMsp7YrZh1OedNs1SNZCiPs1EEQDN6aE0TCNXjfSuwSPfDd1pwgfgVpx2s/s1600/bama-houndstooth-purse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Bama Houndstooth Purse - Vera Bradley Deco Daisy" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXdSXCUnuI0BMDXNrWX6FCJDf0vvpFPPkBR6sBSzfBJGAuSt_9J1i83zCtLNIzfnx0f8ZvUygsESRTL4wRUaMsp7YrZh1OedNs1SNZCiPs1EEQDN6aE0TCNXjfSuwSPfDd1pwgfgVpx2s/s320/bama-houndstooth-purse.jpg" title="" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Lucky Vera Bradley Purse</i></td></tr>
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Of course, we also watch at least part of every game at <a href="http://www.beauwings.com/menu.html" target="_blank">Beauregard's on Jordan Lane in Huntsville</a>, so maybe that's it. In January, I also have a lucky Alabama wreath that my friend's mom made for me for Christmas...that may attribute to the National Championship wins. Since I got it for Christmas, I cannot put it up until after Christmas...I'm trying to follow a pattern here. When you're superstitious, it's hard to know exactly what your lucky
charm is, so we just try to keep repeating everything that may be
working in our favor. That's what any good fan would do, isn't it?! We all have to do our parts!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZiIgl7ddVPlbYNQI5i_b4nQg7j7V44qA_X0mmY_CA5WaaCNMN2nE4H2QKNRI-lbfpLiYzkKpzrj6Aw4oTooiKF4sd3BkqR0eLnCGnvEB7U6y0902xnPFJbxSl8IibSBatck9OGAZo2VU/s1600/beauregards-wings-huntsville-al.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beauregards Wings Jordan Lane Huntsville, AL" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZiIgl7ddVPlbYNQI5i_b4nQg7j7V44qA_X0mmY_CA5WaaCNMN2nE4H2QKNRI-lbfpLiYzkKpzrj6Aw4oTooiKF4sd3BkqR0eLnCGnvEB7U6y0902xnPFJbxSl8IibSBatck9OGAZo2VU/s320/beauregards-wings-huntsville-al.jpg" title="" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwqCH9bUgrvTHZM2rViSly6FbWhokMkbHd0gy5dLTXuO2GS1FhT7LbCYaAa1_BWG0z1Eiw9DySLsjirGRhdCcYrPuE-VyWXiCm9BeCNXn-VGxSsCrl5_FFfPcF2VltsT7ll_QQ6bGW9tY/s1600/alabama-football-beauregards-huntsville-al.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Where to watch Alabama Football - Beauregards Huntsville AL" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwqCH9bUgrvTHZM2rViSly6FbWhokMkbHd0gy5dLTXuO2GS1FhT7LbCYaAa1_BWG0z1Eiw9DySLsjirGRhdCcYrPuE-VyWXiCm9BeCNXn-VGxSsCrl5_FFfPcF2VltsT7ll_QQ6bGW9tY/s320/alabama-football-beauregards-huntsville-al.jpg" title="" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Best Hot Wings in Huntsville, AL</i></td></tr>
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Once we get home from Beauregard's, part of the fun is pulling out all of my Alabama and football partyware for a winning spread. To give you a sense of how deep college football runs in the South, my husband's family gave us some really <a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&field-keywords=arthur%20court%20elephant%20alabama&linkCode=ur2&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Aarthur%20court%20elephant%20alabama&tag=belfeahanpari-20&url=search-alias%3Daps" target="_blank">pretty silver Arthur Court elephant platters and etched Alabama pilsner glasses</a> as a wedding present because that's <b>essential hostess gear</b>. We love them...everyone should be so lucky to start their married life off right like this!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhywU9c2sGL5L30ZI0OnmrnB2URLwsyPQ2KVg9lZ85Yozslq3C4UyEt06-xK0tTBR66IkukmBNksJboki5a7UdY3YdM-LILBwDvsJcxGeZ3wQDZhk-bwMuCpU2XO2wqONVydAkNNoiJU_Y/s1600/alabama-football-food.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Alabama Fooball Party Food" border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhywU9c2sGL5L30ZI0OnmrnB2URLwsyPQ2KVg9lZ85Yozslq3C4UyEt06-xK0tTBR66IkukmBNksJboki5a7UdY3YdM-LILBwDvsJcxGeZ3wQDZhk-bwMuCpU2XO2wqONVydAkNNoiJU_Y/s320/alabama-football-food.jpg" title="" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_MYSKUkJiHiRPMWcCDhoMaalpFjarcR0bwmThKZbyznYAEtelCMyteiYe2cX2VT5AdY6IrzEJf_10kD9ucXmEkY_aASAtVzORFEVSpxQElgv_GpEoGsDZEl9qKXF8Dy7PGzGrSIQuTsg/s1600/alabama-football-plate.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img alt="Alabama Football Plate" border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_MYSKUkJiHiRPMWcCDhoMaalpFjarcR0bwmThKZbyznYAEtelCMyteiYe2cX2VT5AdY6IrzEJf_10kD9ucXmEkY_aASAtVzORFEVSpxQElgv_GpEoGsDZEl9qKXF8Dy7PGzGrSIQuTsg/s320/alabama-football-plate.jpg" title="" width="320" /></a></div>
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And finally, we'll end the day by watching ESPN for recaps to see how the other teams in the NCAA did that day. Then the anticipation for the next Saturday starts up again.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkHPCkK6Vutefyoph1yMvrNzehGBCErqSKTpo0scYtWJumCWCKuujpPzt3OYKQE3lBebg4TugYpI1uVL5V5lFWtInX16d8tv54WdWA7iHGTrNkzrWwwbYDlVnpmOPxMx-lL_sm1anRHZU/s1600/roll-tide-bannr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="147" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkHPCkK6Vutefyoph1yMvrNzehGBCErqSKTpo0scYtWJumCWCKuujpPzt3OYKQE3lBebg4TugYpI1uVL5V5lFWtInX16d8tv54WdWA7iHGTrNkzrWwwbYDlVnpmOPxMx-lL_sm1anRHZU/s320/roll-tide-bannr.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Here's to hoping we're on the winning side of the recaps....ROLL TIDE! <i><b>Best of luck to your team today, too!</b></i><div class="blogger-post-footer"><p></p>
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<p align=center>See my products & services at <a href=http://www.BellyFeathers.com>BellyFeathers.com.</a></p>
<p align=center><a href=http://www.facebook.com/BellyFeathers>Join the Belly Feathers community on Facebook.</a></p></div>Betsy Pruitt of Belly Feathershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12583143550706244500noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4403212839025640928.post-71370224654317509272012-12-03T21:55:00.005-06:002014-02-16T17:59:28.991-06:00Gift Wrapping Ideas Just in Time for ChristmasThis weekend, I was asked if I had a video showing how to wrap a present in a gift bag without wrinkling the tissue paper. I didn't, so my husband helped me whip one up pretty fast. I absolutely love gift wrapping, so I'm happy to share this quick tutorial.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="253" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/12v5k4Z8lAE" width="450"></iframe>
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This fall, I also had the opportunity to record a few professional videos for <a href="http://www.ehow.com/videos-on_12248753_practical-party-ideas.html" target="_blank">eHow.com on how to tie bows on presents</a>. My favorite bow to tie is a <b>Puff Bow</b>. These bows make such a great impression, and the technique I use makes them much easier to tie than they may look. The key is really to use wired-edge ribbon because you can bend it into shape. This time of year you can get huge rolls of this in fun Christmas designs at craft stores. <i>I usually stock up after the holidays when they're on clearance.</i><br />
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<div><object type="application/x-shockwave-flash" data="http://cdn-i.dmdentertainment.com/DMVideoPlayer/player.swf" id="player" height="253" width="450" ><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><param name="movie" value="http://cdn-i.dmdentertainment.com/DMVideoPlayer/player.swf" /><param name="flashVars" value="demand_uihex=%23ffffff&ALT_KEY=DemandMediaehowoffsite&cp=1&demand_cat=Parties%20%26%20Entertaining&purl=http%3A//cdn-i.dmdentertainment.com/DMVideoPlayer/player.swf&DESC=Making%20a%20puff%20bow%20always%20requires%20you%20to%20keep%20a%20few%20key%20things%20in%20mind.%20Make%20a%20puff%20bow%20with%20help%20from%20a%20longtime%20and%20experienced%20event%20planner%20in%20this%20free%20video%20clip.&CATEGORIES=Parties%20%26%20Entertaining&demand_scat=Parties&sitename=ehow&ADAPTAG=party%20ideas%2Cpractical%20ideas%2Cparty%20decorations&demand_sscat=Other%20Types%20of%20Parties&demand_site_id=EHWC&COMPANION_DIV_ID=companionAd300x250&demand_related=3&video_title=How%20to%20Make%20a%20Puff%20Bow&demand_share=facebook%2Ctwitter%2Cemail&demand_enableJS=0&overlayAdPartner=ScanScout&demand_show_rvtab=1&sourcehd=http%3A//cdn-viper.demandvideo.com/media/b5832b2d-204d-4e70-9fe0-b175d0e925bc/flashHD/bf442d58-5ee1-41b6-a307-77d8abf62f66.flv&demand_rvdisplaymode=0&ss_progId=4d94c0888205a&taboolaId=ehow&demand_hd=0&source=http%3A//cdn-viper.demandvideo.com/media/b5832b2d-204d-4e70-9fe0-b175d0e925bc/flash/bf442d58-5ee1-41b6-a307-77d8abf62f66.flv&skin=http%3A//cdn-i.dmdentertainment.com/DMVideoPlayer/playerskin.swf&demand_fb=false&demand_page_url=http%3A//www.ehow.com/video_12248762_make-puff-bow.html&done=true&demand_content_sourcekey=http%3A//www.ehow.com&comscore_c3=7290850&v=4.0.8c&demand_autoplay=0&demand_content_id=bf442d58-5ee1-41b6-a307-77d8abf62f66&comscore_c4=7385231&demand_studio_id=bf442d58-5ee1-41b6-a307-77d8abf62f66&CONTEXT=%7B%22scat%22%3A%22Parties%22%2C%22sscat%22%3A%22Other%20Types%20of%20Parties%22%7D&demand_embed_screenshot=http%3A//v5-static.ehowcdn.com/media/images/logos/dm_embed_logo.png&demand_iconurl=http%3A//v5-static.ehowcdn.com/media/images/logos/video-player.png&demand_icontext=Discover%20the%20expert%20in%20you.%20Check%20out%20millions%20of%20articles%20and%20videos%20on%20topics%20that%20are%20important%20to%20you%20across%20Home%2C%20Money%2C%20Food%2C%20Style%2C%20Health%20and%20more%21&adPartner=Adap&demand_iconlink=http%3A//www.ehow.com/&KEY=DemandMediaehowoffsite&demand_related_feed=http%3A//www.ehow.com/services/video/series.xml&wa_vloc=video_detail&ID=bf442d58-5ee1-41b6-a307-77d8abf62f66&demand_email_url=http%3A//www.ehow.com/services/video/email.html&TITLE=How%20to%20Make%20a%20Puff%20Bow&demand_ehow_videoid=12248762&KEYWORDS=party%20ideas%2Cpractical%20ideas%2Cparty%20decorations&demand_continuous_play=1&demand_video_timeout=5&wa_vemb=1" /></object><br><a href="http://www.ehow.com/video_12248762_make-puff-bow.html">How to Make a Puff Bow</a> -- powered by ehow</div>
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<b>Tulle Puff Bows</b> are another favorite of mine. At Christmas, I think a white tulle puff bow looks so pretty on snowflake wrapping paper in particular because these bows look like fluffy snowballs or snowflakes.<br />
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<a href="http://www.ehow.com/video_12248761_tutorial-tulle-puff-bow.html">Tutorial for a Tulle Puff Bow</a> -- powered by ehow</div>
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If you want to take your Tulle Puff Bow to the next level, here's an easy idea for adding a little raffia for texture.<br />
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<div>
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<a href="http://www.ehow.com/video_12248759_decorate-gifts-tulle.html">How to Decorate Gifts With Tulle</a> -- powered by ehow</div>
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<b>Let me know if you have any gift wrapping questions this holiday season. </b> Maybe I can whip up a video just for you. Happy wrapping!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><p></p>
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<img border="0" height="105" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DwCtmQbp0MI/THhX4Cq0W-I/AAAAAAAADm4/pL3yRhefU3o/s400/belly-feathers-party-rss-feed.jpg" width="400" //></div>
<p align=center>See my products & services at <a href=http://www.BellyFeathers.com>BellyFeathers.com.</a></p>
<p align=center><a href=http://www.facebook.com/BellyFeathers>Join the Belly Feathers community on Facebook.</a></p></div>Betsy Pruitt of Belly Feathershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12583143550706244500noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4403212839025640928.post-79983607806785096962012-11-27T23:50:00.003-06:002012-11-28T08:05:23.398-06:00Countdown to Christmas :: Printable Advent CalendarThe excitement of opening an Advent Calendar surprise is something that never fades away. The anticipation is still super fresh in my mind. This year, I thought it would be fun to make my very own <b>"Countdown to Christmas" Advent Calendar</b>. Here's how I created this fun and easy project.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzAryRxBIfw3aivqm-n4pTiajHNsI42eB__idFCiyhkJo9DD0N6G67wRBHRFCXnGEptXBrtxfFhMGf8zhPCzBatKLW8PeH1hEJOU2hGwX1NRRjWs0obRGBG9B4m9PnQehCkNQcubXR_6E/s1600/christmas-calendar-printable.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk2qTsLcg2SVVp9BfXaNryRFhTBqkq69DawLA9bVS_LpwJA3ji7oNzyAxUc3mspxVt63xbeLhaMAdERzztP9JcW5c7t8LkEa2TYiJ-AispRvALrWRhl4I8oeyrcH8QhU_kBzAal7lhTZk/s1600/countdown-to-christmas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk2qTsLcg2SVVp9BfXaNryRFhTBqkq69DawLA9bVS_LpwJA3ji7oNzyAxUc3mspxVt63xbeLhaMAdERzztP9JcW5c7t8LkEa2TYiJ-AispRvALrWRhl4I8oeyrcH8QhU_kBzAal7lhTZk/s640/countdown-to-christmas.jpg" alt="Countdown to Christmas Advent Calendar" width="420" /></a></div>
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<h2>
Countdown to Christmas Advent Calendar Supplies:</h2>
<ul>
<li>Chalkboard & chalk<br />(You could use a bulletin board or a picture frame wrapped in wrapping paper instead.)</li>
<li>Push pins, tacks, or tape </li>
<li>Bakers' twine or string</li>
<li>Mini paper bags</li>
<li>Tiny clothespins (I had no clue these came in such an ity-bity size...love them!)</li>
<li>Ghirardelli chocolates (Caramel is our favorite flavor, but any little surprises will do.)</li>
<li><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/116470938/countdown-to-christmas-printable-advent" target="_blank">Printable Advent Calendar Numbers,</a> designed by yours truly (just $2.50), cut into squares</li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzAryRxBIfw3aivqm-n4pTiajHNsI42eB__idFCiyhkJo9DD0N6G67wRBHRFCXnGEptXBrtxfFhMGf8zhPCzBatKLW8PeH1hEJOU2hGwX1NRRjWs0obRGBG9B4m9PnQehCkNQcubXR_6E/s1600/christmas-calendar-printable.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzAryRxBIfw3aivqm-n4pTiajHNsI42eB__idFCiyhkJo9DD0N6G67wRBHRFCXnGEptXBrtxfFhMGf8zhPCzBatKLW8PeH1hEJOU2hGwX1NRRjWs0obRGBG9B4m9PnQehCkNQcubXR_6E/s400/christmas-calendar-printable.jpg" alt="Christmas Calendar Printable" width="400" /></a></div>
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Press push pins into the back side of your chalkboard or frame at even intervals to create five rows across. Thread bakers' twine or string around the chalkboard looping around each push pin to hold securely and tie ends. Alternately, you could tape the twine or string onto the back of your chalkboard, but I'm not sure this would hold as securely.<br />
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Fill your mini paper bags with chocolates or other surprises, and fold the top of the bag over. With the folded side facing the back, place a printable advent calendar number on top of the bag, and secure into place on your frame with a tiny clothespin. I found the mini paper bags, chocolates, and tiny clothespins at Michael's...<i>gotta love one-stop shopping!</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8VUiiGY4xAbL7OPAwQyWpVsMLc7TVpo7it2W69c9GC_ERMfSGweCDIEMr9gsFbvvWRN4392zTZfdNU5O19Kqyky8Mj5qztmVQ8X7A1R2k-8qjt872Z2ceDNO5DtfIvbHTWCsYyTIOtH8/s1600/christmas-countdown.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="262" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8VUiiGY4xAbL7OPAwQyWpVsMLc7TVpo7it2W69c9GC_ERMfSGweCDIEMr9gsFbvvWRN4392zTZfdNU5O19Kqyky8Mj5qztmVQ8X7A1R2k-8qjt872Z2ceDNO5DtfIvbHTWCsYyTIOtH8/s400/christmas-countdown.jpg" alt="Printable Christmas Countdown" width="400" /></a></div>
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Use chalk to personalize your Countdown to Christmas Advent Calendar. I drew little holly leaves to coordinate with the design on the <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/116470938/countdown-to-christmas-printable-advent" target="_blank">Printable Advent Calendar Numbers</a> and put our family name at the bottom.<br />
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<i>Starting on December 1, let the fun begin!</i> Since it's just me and my husband at our house, we take turns opening a number every day. I get even numbers; he gets odds. Then if family comes to visit, we usually let them open the last few numbers leading up to Christmas. It's fun to share the joy!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg44DXwFlUQZqSRvIeEiTLDTpAogCTyN0mP-6Da00bhzx27CjwtxE0NO2CJXMTU8P1vs_HZt5jRNw2JVuol0mtG26ZewgxMRk5jRbO5kHJelHxzmqRAmmFbALsxqOWuwb4LiXXnw2mGCZo/s1600/printable-advent-calendar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg44DXwFlUQZqSRvIeEiTLDTpAogCTyN0mP-6Da00bhzx27CjwtxE0NO2CJXMTU8P1vs_HZt5jRNw2JVuol0mtG26ZewgxMRk5jRbO5kHJelHxzmqRAmmFbALsxqOWuwb4LiXXnw2mGCZo/s400/printable-advent-calendar.jpg" alt="Printable Advent Calendar" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i>If you'd like to <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/116470938/countdown-to-christmas-printable-advent" target="_blank">order the Printable Advent Calendar Numbers</a>, they are available for instant download for just $2.50. You'll receive an email within a minute or two of purchase with instructions for downloading them.</i><br />
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<b>What are some of the holiday traditions at your house?</b><br />
<ul>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer"><p></p>
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<img border="0" height="105" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DwCtmQbp0MI/THhX4Cq0W-I/AAAAAAAADm4/pL3yRhefU3o/s400/belly-feathers-party-rss-feed.jpg" width="400" //></div>
<p align=center>See my products & services at <a href=http://www.BellyFeathers.com>BellyFeathers.com.</a></p>
<p align=center><a href=http://www.facebook.com/BellyFeathers>Join the Belly Feathers community on Facebook.</a></p></div>Betsy Pruitt of Belly Feathershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12583143550706244500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4403212839025640928.post-14139295827310362002012-10-25T21:54:00.001-05:002012-10-25T22:08:55.662-05:00Easy Halloween Recipes & Food IdeasWe're less than a week away from one of the most fun holidays for kids - HALLOWEEN! And, what's the most important thing about Halloween? <i>The yummy treats, of course! </i>If you're looking for one special <b>Halloween recipe</b> to make for your family or ideas for an entire <b>Halloween party menu</b>, I've got lots of super easy ideas from this Halloween party I threw for some of my little friends.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0kEO7NIRRpTRrvNNkjbdbkAtigT_KyOKGySQ3iR4gXOOAA3vja-qr83qNvrwru47yuyT0sr-Qi2U_LEuj09EFJ_FIu_acQutcUlS8HWnukXAW7oT7h10h2CkrtkUrzEY_AWRnI9OKWiw/s1600/halloween-candy-buffet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0kEO7NIRRpTRrvNNkjbdbkAtigT_KyOKGySQ3iR4gXOOAA3vja-qr83qNvrwru47yuyT0sr-Qi2U_LEuj09EFJ_FIu_acQutcUlS8HWnukXAW7oT7h10h2CkrtkUrzEY_AWRnI9OKWiw/s400/halloween-candy-buffet.jpg" width="263" /></a></div>
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<h3>
Spooky S'Mores</h3>
These just make me smile! Break a graham cracker in half, and slide it in a clear treat bag with <a href="http://www.marshmallowpeeps.com/products/halloween" target="_blank">Ghost Peeps </a>and a couple <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000IXWCQO/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000IXWCQO&linkCode=as2&tag=belfeahanpari-20" target="_blank">mini Hershey's Chocolate Bars</a>. If you want to jazz it up even further, add tag from my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/110263550/halloween-printable-party-collection" target="_blank">Halloween Printable Collection</a>. If you want to eat them warm, you can pop them in a microwave for 10-second intervals. Of course, I found the kids had a great time just eating all the parts individually.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkX3GIdRJY5hihERS1nMCP88QD1B_kCFNTdb6MOCYsGoM3wBo-FUohPZo6L4ZdvIdCgbWUFyv2lFbwBuak2dtnpMzXCkQnX5cAlB5P5bYroMwpWXeD5Mqq7P0DMXetfcSuW8JV8XOUTTs/s1600/halloween-snacks-ghost-smores.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkX3GIdRJY5hihERS1nMCP88QD1B_kCFNTdb6MOCYsGoM3wBo-FUohPZo6L4ZdvIdCgbWUFyv2lFbwBuak2dtnpMzXCkQnX5cAlB5P5bYroMwpWXeD5Mqq7P0DMXetfcSuW8JV8XOUTTs/s400/halloween-snacks-ghost-smores.jpg" width="263" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMjNQ1LwURTimVKSQ0J5ipEhhbmZJ-poPBX5KKw7Gzbz0ZXsWCMXX-YmB6zIQtIbBM6MHBRDLQgg_8FjE4mgFf-MnHNhjf-eHdD1tjUaqfTYb54ZM-qvmvJZy7RuZZW5UGKY_xL3kwsxY/s1600/halloween-treat-ideas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMjNQ1LwURTimVKSQ0J5ipEhhbmZJ-poPBX5KKw7Gzbz0ZXsWCMXX-YmB6zIQtIbBM6MHBRDLQgg_8FjE4mgFf-MnHNhjf-eHdD1tjUaqfTYb54ZM-qvmvJZy7RuZZW5UGKY_xL3kwsxY/s400/halloween-treat-ideas.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<h3>
Candy Corn Popcorn Balls</h3>
Candy Corn Popcorn Balls are a tradition at our house. Year after year, I get special requests for these, so you know they're good! This <a href="http://www.myrecipes.com/recipe/candy-corn-popcorn-balls-10000001010471/" target="_blank">recipe from Cooking Light</a> is super easy and, if you can believe it, LOW CAL! (Just 212 calories each...okay, not super low cal, but pretty good for a homemade dessert.) I added a little extra cute to them this year by pushing in a wooden candy apple stick and tying a little ribbon to the top of the stick. I also slid some into clear treat bags and tied them shut with twine around the base of the stick for some cute take-home party favors. To complete the look of this platter, I added a tent card from my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/110263550/halloween-printable-party-collection" target="_blank">Halloween Printable Collection</a>. This is one of the pre-formatted menu labels, but you can also type right in the PDF to create your own custom food tags and treat label tent cards.<br />
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<h3>
Halloween Cupcakes</h3>
As busy moms and working gals, we can't do it all, but we can come pretty close. That's why I love taking store-bought treats and adding a little of my own flair. These <a href="http://littledebbie.com/products/ChocCupcakes.asp" target="_blank">Little Debbie Chocolate Cupcakes</a> are perfect for Halloween with their deep black chocolate color and swirly white frosting detail. I auditioned the more famous brand of these cupcakes, but they didn't win the taste test...there was a clear difference. To make these even cuter, I just added Halloween Cupcake Toppers from my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/110263550/halloween-printable-party-collection" target="_blank">Halloween Printable Collection</a> and tied a little "Cupcakes" tag onto my glass dome. Easy, quick, and done!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKTAvvUQT13J2qRHQMnrsc5jj_tM9F4ChEroxO33KBTkQwfhDtXWiLIRBFtxPHIA3iaQiaohfO_fltlvkFEqqMdIDpjDrpjoHtwbcq02ImpEFNxDDF0PlZu9RHD_WBwsXB60caD1zxH4Y/s1600/halloween-cupcakes-party.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKTAvvUQT13J2qRHQMnrsc5jj_tM9F4ChEroxO33KBTkQwfhDtXWiLIRBFtxPHIA3iaQiaohfO_fltlvkFEqqMdIDpjDrpjoHtwbcq02ImpEFNxDDF0PlZu9RHD_WBwsXB60caD1zxH4Y/s400/halloween-cupcakes-party.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<h3>
Witch's Potion Punch</h3>
Sometimes, an easy name change is all it takes to go from ordinary to extraordinary. Take some orange soda, call it "Witch's Potion Punch", and voila! You could use sugar-free Kool-Aid, too, if you wanted to reduce some of the sugar intake at your party. To make my soda look even more fun, I poured it into some <a href="http://www.target.com/p/archer-farms-hazelnut-biscotti-low-fat-latte-4-9-5-oz-bottles/-/A-12921273" target="_blank">recycled Target latte bottles</a> and added <a href="http://heyyoyo.com/item/Striped-Paper-Straws-Halloween-Stripe/920" target="_blank">Halloween paper straws from Hey Yo Yo</a>.<br />
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<h3>
Monster Mix</h3>
Halloween can be sweets overload, so it's good to have a little salty on hand, too. Going with an easy, store-bought approach + name change again, I created Monster Mix by pouring Chex Mix into adorable <a href="http://heyyoyo.com/item/Candy-Cups-Orange-Polka-Dot/127" target="_blank">orange candy cups from Hey Yo Yo</a>. The tent-card label is from (you guessed it!), my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/110263550/halloween-printable-party-collection" target="_blank">Halloween Printables Collection</a>. I also saw a fun <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/143059725634764492/" target="_blank">Halloween recipe on Pinterest by In Katrina's Kitchen</a> that would be fun to use, as well.<br />
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<h3>
Halloween Cookies</h3>
At any party, it's really nice to have one special sweet. Lindsey at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TickledPinkCB?ref=ts&fref=ts" target="_blank">Tickled Pink Cookie Boutique</a> definitely knows how to make a party special. Her cookies are so gorgeous in person with a light shimmery lustre...absolutely stunning and super delicious with a hint of almond extract. Bewitching! I love how she was able to perfectly match the designs in my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/110263550/halloween-printable-party-collection" target="_blank">Halloween Printables Collection</a>. Of course, she can match any party theme, so be sure to like or bookmark her <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TickledPinkCB?ref=ts&fref=ts" target="_blank">Facebook page</a>. She ships, too!<br />
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<h3>
Halloween Mini Candy Bars</h3>
Details, details, details! Here's another easy trick for personalizing your Halloween Party. Wrap <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005CUMJWU/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B005CUMJWU&linkCode=as2&tag=belfeahanpari-20" target="_blank">Hershey's Miniatures</a> in festive orange and black paper (3 x 1.5" strips work well). Or better yet, use the <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/110263550/halloween-printable-party-collection" target="_blank">Halloween Mini Candy Bar Wrappers</a> that come in my Halloween Printable Collection. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2tvVu_sjjN7cbVXBCfi_5m_cTQ-6AHLMoilVA5CJm-VJPtoxdODLSJiiMAC7gzwb_6HMPnHdyyK5PpG0hhjGC2gK-usXTftM-naYn_-5BjihMpKTELWXrDcDeqsO3IBNxdmYyRnMZLUg/s1600/candy-on-halloween.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2tvVu_sjjN7cbVXBCfi_5m_cTQ-6AHLMoilVA5CJm-VJPtoxdODLSJiiMAC7gzwb_6HMPnHdyyK5PpG0hhjGC2gK-usXTftM-naYn_-5BjihMpKTELWXrDcDeqsO3IBNxdmYyRnMZLUg/s400/candy-on-halloween.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<h3>
Cutie Clementine Oranges</h3>
Looking for a healthy Halloween snack? Load up on some Cutie Clementines. These are the perfect shade of orange for Halloween, are easy to peel, and oh so delicious! Don't they look super cute all piled up in the bottom of this basket stand?!<br />
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<h3>
Halloween Candy</h3>
And, finally, what Halloween Party would be complete without candy?! I love to make a bold visual impression, and this big jar of <a href="http://www.partycity.com/product/orange+gumballs+16oz.do#.UDb9UAc-rtM.pinterest" target="_blank">orange gumballs from Party City</a> does just that. To save money when filling big candy jars like this, I always stack clear plastic cups upside down inside the jar to make a hallow center. <i>Every little bit counts!</i> I also used some of <a href="http://www.partycity.com/product/black+candy+sticks.do#.UDbuzp0UT0w.pinterest" target="_blank">Party City's black-and-white striped candy sticks</a> that have a great grape flavor that won't stain your mouth all up. Since I love candy corn, a jar of this is a must for me, too!<br />
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All of the amazing photos in this post were captured by <a href="http://clickphotodesigns.com/" target="_blank">Click Photo Designs by Sarah Brewer</a>, a fantastic event and family photographer in Huntsville, AL.<br />
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/110263550/halloween-printable-party-collection" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcopCgGaZjzP3fCB2Mnnur24ICgdokHEWrcOgnwmVYPyAiVOQJiuwc4Rr_St549Il78F9hQlDZHFyccETGT9Hqj8XpNqIz4Orxz9hmZnl4TCk1__P4BjC8C3fMWE7zMUVKI8vvUN4BEyU/s1600/halloween-printable-collection-220.jpg" /></a></div>
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<p align=center>See my products & services at <a href=http://www.BellyFeathers.com>BellyFeathers.com.</a></p>
<p align=center><a href=http://www.facebook.com/BellyFeathers>Join the Belly Feathers community on Facebook.</a></p></div>Betsy Pruitt of Belly Feathershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12583143550706244500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4403212839025640928.post-61938788423188764742012-10-10T06:30:00.000-05:002012-10-10T11:35:26.873-05:00Halloween Costumes That Are Just Too CuteI'm pretty traditional when it comes to Halloween Costumes. That's why I was so surprised at all of the adorable costumes available at <a href="http://www.partycity.com/" target="_blank"><b>Party City</b></a>. I definitely knew they had all the latest superhero, popular movie, and cartoon character costumes covered, but what really impressed me were how many choices they had for cute traditional Halloween costumes and modern spins on these classics. Their costumes have so many adorable details that really give homemade costumes a run for their money. Here are my top four favorite Halloween Costumes from Party City.<br />
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<a href="http://www.partycity.com/product/toddler+girls+sweet+treat+costume.do?sortby=ourPicks&size=all&from=Search&navSet=tights+girls" target="_blank">#1 - Sweet Treat Witch</a> </h3>
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Isn't this the sweetest costume ever?! I absolutely L-O-V-E candy corn, so when I saw Party City had a <a href="http://www.partycity.com/product/toddler+girls+sweet+treat+costume.do?sortby=ourPicks&size=all&from=Search&navSet=tights+girls" target="_blank">candy corn witch costume</a>, I fell in love all over again! In fact, my decision was actually pretty hard because they have <a href="http://www.partycity.com/search.do?query=candy+corn+costume+girl" target="_blank">lots of different candy corn witch costumes to choose from</a> if you can image that. The little candy corn tights that come with this costume and the lace detailing around the sleeves made me glad I chose this one, and as you can see, Lauren had a great time wearing it. So precious! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifsxoKbQPr0wFMSqOP5a5UzDlCPyr52DLontp5en0_AaEulNs7HDXHPeBtxjxCYPmm9-pmTQQx_35HlwrZwupICc09G8E57-SSRCGVbc1IUNXp9SCzxI98Fl8BVNcOozC6q8e-QNcj40Q/s1600/candy-corn-witch-costume.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Candy Corn Witch - Photo by Click Photo Designs by Sarah Brewer" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifsxoKbQPr0wFMSqOP5a5UzDlCPyr52DLontp5en0_AaEulNs7HDXHPeBtxjxCYPmm9-pmTQQx_35HlwrZwupICc09G8E57-SSRCGVbc1IUNXp9SCzxI98Fl8BVNcOozC6q8e-QNcj40Q/s400/candy-corn-witch-costume.jpg" title="Candy Corn Witch Halloween Costume by Party City" width="264" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.partycity.com/product/toddler+boys+skeleton+costume.do?sortby=ourPicks&size=all&from=Search&navSet=skeleton%20boys%20costume" target="_blank">#2 - Skeleton</a></h3>
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When your husband stops in the hall to comment on how "cool" a <a href="http://www.partycity.com/product/toddler+boys+skeleton+costume.do?sortby=ourPicks&size=all&from=Search&navSet=skeleton%20boys%20costume" target="_blank">skeleton costume</a> looks just hanging on a hanger, you know you've picked a winner! Lawson looked so stinking cute in this little costume, too...I just can't get over it! He was totally excited about wearing this again for the real Halloween, too...trust me, I got a big thank-you hug. The little bones had really cool airbrushing detail on them, and the little gloves and shoe covers that are part of the costume really complete the look. If you're little one doesn't like wearing the mask over his face, it makes a great hat that looks just as cute. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizlA43ehcjneCKFTaUkoYV7p9JX0oC8-vsX8su4XoOZJS_U-D5OHyuGnN2HdJE3gUuU4b5Z8WsClLU4nZLaiN5vNA_QDbPRJMQ0veWQqybBFWD9bxsdPc-aKOOBhWGfDJExgx_-h0dYCo/s1600/skeleton-costume-party-city.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Skeleton Costume by Party City" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizlA43ehcjneCKFTaUkoYV7p9JX0oC8-vsX8su4XoOZJS_U-D5OHyuGnN2HdJE3gUuU4b5Z8WsClLU4nZLaiN5vNA_QDbPRJMQ0veWQqybBFWD9bxsdPc-aKOOBhWGfDJExgx_-h0dYCo/s400/skeleton-costume-party-city.jpg" title="Skeleton Costume from Party City" width="263" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.partycity.com/product/toddler+boys+lil+frankie+frankenstein+costume.do?sortby=ourPicks&pp=60&size=all&navSet=110840" target="_blank">#3 - Lil Frankie Frankenstein</a></h3>
When I saw this costume, I knew I had to have it. I loved it in the photos, and then when I saw it in person, I was pleasantly surprised with the little <a href="http://www.partycity.com/product/toddler+boys+lil+frankie+frankenstein+costume.do?sortby=ourPicks&pp=60&size=all&navSet=110840" target="_blank">Frankenstein</a> design details on the neck screws...I'm a sucker for attention to detail like this. I just love how cute Ethan looks doing his Frankenstein walk in this photo, too! Another detail I like about this costume was how the little pants had shoe covers built in, so you don't have to worry about matching shoes.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2N2X6xUNUUnGbb0qz-PnMinry-OtF1DJ95pdhcUi-HtkmICI8LQBl-PaAr91pO-zbjQ-qEjMgwlQVLfVN0PUUS1t-t22rVyI-4Up_hvEF6dRX4DgU5TzL1yDCzQ_ERM7E1tT-3HuWgkk/s1600/frankenstein-costume-party-city.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Frankenstein Costume by Party City" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2N2X6xUNUUnGbb0qz-PnMinry-OtF1DJ95pdhcUi-HtkmICI8LQBl-PaAr91pO-zbjQ-qEjMgwlQVLfVN0PUUS1t-t22rVyI-4Up_hvEF6dRX4DgU5TzL1yDCzQ_ERM7E1tT-3HuWgkk/s400/frankenstein-costume-party-city.jpg" title="Frankenstein Costume by Party City" width="263" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.partycity.com/product/girls+catarina+ballerina+costume.do?sortby=ourPicks&size=all&from=Search&navSet=girl+cat+costume" target="_blank">#4 - Catarina Ballerina</a></h3>
Here's another cute Party City spin on a traditional <a href="http://www.partycity.com/product/girls+catarina+ballerina+costume.do?sortby=ourPicks&size=all&from=Search&navSet=girl+cat+costume" target="_blank">black cat costume</a>! What little girl wouldn't love to get dressed up in a tutu with frilly sleeves?! MyAsia looked so precious in this little outfit, which had a really pretty sequenced bodice, too. You'll need to get your own tights for this one, and Party City has lots of fun ones to choose from. We picked these <a href="http://www.partycity.com/product/child+black+spiderweb+tights.do" target="_blank">little spider web tights</a> that would be fun to wear under skirts and dresses all October long.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNrLMU_NrzLUJJ2kKBtQoqwspKG4j0fd81BlcmcNpj4HGxFRXp0P_i6EA1P-XuWKtp2iDGFARCBccUSA14PwlKI02ijK9spbouLXeMOiiv0w8tzvyQFDrm4kYYzkjLTXAslrPWAuPtKBk/s1600/black-cat-ballerina-costume.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Black Cat Caterina Ballerina Costume by Party City" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNrLMU_NrzLUJJ2kKBtQoqwspKG4j0fd81BlcmcNpj4HGxFRXp0P_i6EA1P-XuWKtp2iDGFARCBccUSA14PwlKI02ijK9spbouLXeMOiiv0w8tzvyQFDrm4kYYzkjLTXAslrPWAuPtKBk/s400/black-cat-ballerina-costume.jpg" title="Black Cat Costume by Party City" width="263" /></a></div>
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Definitely check out Party City for your costumes this year. I think you'll be pleasantly surprised at the variety and styles. And, if you sign up for their email list, they send out lots of great coupons. To see more of my favorite Party City costumes and decorations, check out this <a href="http://pinterest.com/bellyfeathers/halloween-party-city-favorites/" target="_blank">Pinterest board</a> I created to help me select items for this <a href="http://www.bellyfeathersparty.blogspot.com/2012/10/halloween-parties-for-kids.html" target="_blank"><b>Halloween Party Inspiration Photo Shoot</b></a> with <a href="http://clickphotodesigns.com/" target="_blank">Click Photo Designs by Sarah Brewer</a>, who took all of these awesome photos, and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TickledPinkCB" target="_blank">Tickled Pink Cookie Boutique</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://www.bellyfeathersparty.blogspot.com/2012/10/halloween-parties-for-kids.html"><img alt="Halloween Printable Pictures" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm4XJ8bVOHijaBPWPgVBzxl62kgqRRO75ub0rQ_zj5WtNceTL9KBp5R-oBMWESI2rI-hw7X3xJD3mPnNdhsRr5FI06ozs2ieqcwr83_J8j2XZ8bifFxsq9_-V2DuluvE0h5odtxNXn12Q/s1600/halloween-printable-pictures.jpg" title="Halloween Printable Pictures" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.bellyfeathersparty.blogspot.com/2012/10/halloween-parties-for-kids.html" target="_blank">See more Halloween Party Photos and Ideas. </a></b><br />
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And, don't forget to order your <b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/110263550/halloween-printable-party-collection" target="_blank">Eerie & Cheery Halloween Printables</a></b>! You get a banner, favor tags, cupcake toppers, candy bar wrappers, and more for <b>only $10</b>.<br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/110263550/halloween-printable-party-collection" target="_blank"><img alt="Halloween Printable Collection by Belly Feathers" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvmF3zUkR8yBhe1chyjIFxrnybD9rfR1n9umFDUuMIRvHEMddFKFtNRDsGdAzhYj7o_hyphenhyphenDMa1PM_De6iDhIaK1JYgHFUotDPMLFySqsKnY9JvM21Vnwfxbnt_gbsBB5aMgVZTiifKhpco/s320/halloween-printables-440.jpg" title="Halloween Printable Collection by Belly Feathers" width="320" /></a></div>
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<img border="0" height="105" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DwCtmQbp0MI/THhX4Cq0W-I/AAAAAAAADm4/pL3yRhefU3o/s400/belly-feathers-party-rss-feed.jpg" width="400" //></div>
<p align=center>See my products & services at <a href=http://www.BellyFeathers.com>BellyFeathers.com.</a></p>
<p align=center><a href=http://www.facebook.com/BellyFeathers>Join the Belly Feathers community on Facebook.</a></p></div>Betsy Pruitt of Belly Feathershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12583143550706244500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4403212839025640928.post-60683211819233754582012-10-01T05:00:00.000-05:002012-10-01T05:53:08.131-05:00Eerie & Cheery Halloween Party IdeasHalloween is one of my favorite holidays to decorate for. I get so excited every Halloween to see all of the little trick-or-treaters knocking on my door and what costumes they've chosen that year. Because of this, I really prefer to decorate with a cheery, kid-friendly Halloween style. That's why I was so thrilled to collaborate with <a href="http://www.partycity.com/" target="_blank"><b>Party City</b></a> on an <b>Eery and Cheery Halloween Party</b> for some little friends this year.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfxu4-aH40hUurL5BMav4sB6TwkCcfk7kSrEMqeHIeK5rCvpj4MhMdpmJd4W9IJSjhKrDZ9vmTR5N1VXHOXNrVy9fktA7J6cJlLrY1xwROzV8J7JExznGHPWJ9vwhFVfZUwzQjyOLIRog/s1600/halloween-printable-pictures.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Halloween Printable Pictures" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfxu4-aH40hUurL5BMav4sB6TwkCcfk7kSrEMqeHIeK5rCvpj4MhMdpmJd4W9IJSjhKrDZ9vmTR5N1VXHOXNrVy9fktA7J6cJlLrY1xwROzV8J7JExznGHPWJ9vwhFVfZUwzQjyOLIRog/s1600/halloween-printable-pictures.jpg" title="Halloween Printable Pictures of Party" /></a></div>
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Party City has a fabulous selection of kids costumes from the latest cartoon and superheros characters to updated classics, like the adorable <a href="http://www.partycity.com/product/toddler+boys+lil+frankie+frankenstein+costume.do?sortby=ourPicks&pp=60&size=all&navSet=110840" target="_blank">Frankenstein</a>, <a href="http://www.partycity.com/product/toddler+boys+skeleton+costume.do#.UGkA6JZReNk.pinterest" target="_blank">Skeleton</a>, <a href="http://www.partycity.com/product/toddler+girls+sweet+treat+costume.do?sortby=ourPicks&size=all&from=Search&navSet=tights+girls" target="_blank">Candy Corn Witch</a>, <a href="http://www.partycity.com/product/girls+catarina+ballerina+costume.do?sortby=ourPicks&size=all&from=Search&navSet=girl+cat+costume" target="_blank">Black Cat</a>, and <a href="http://www.partycity.com/product/boys+transylvanian+vampire+costume.do?sortby=ourPicks&pp=60&size=all&navSet=170844" target="_blank">Vampire</a> costumes you see in these fantastic shots captured by <b><a href="http://clickphotodesigns.com/" target="_blank">Click Photo Designs by Sarah Brewer</a></b>. If you ever need family photos or a special event photographed in the North Alabama area, Sarah is the best.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2UEGj35ON39AMuLrV9OedE8DnjBWC2apIi59vh6xi0gbODBLE9Cm1i6X_pRbReBNWvU6kAJhliokxZeHj3eI34lp-2xf4fqsD9n6BLPKFCtgJtk_GzT_n2RvFsJflMY-v8M-qW6rxFQk/s1600/halloween-cute-costumes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Cute Halloween Costumes from Party City" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2UEGj35ON39AMuLrV9OedE8DnjBWC2apIi59vh6xi0gbODBLE9Cm1i6X_pRbReBNWvU6kAJhliokxZeHj3eI34lp-2xf4fqsD9n6BLPKFCtgJtk_GzT_n2RvFsJflMY-v8M-qW6rxFQk/s1600/halloween-cute-costumes.jpg" title="Cute Halloween Costumes from Party City" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoXB1k_ku2djGrDT98lOaMAfWy6dL9mc67raGQbfmDkMHrbTKA9mgX5whUNWnYk6qwY6tQo4UKpgL4IiZdnEh-Mxez_QWaNZP4OQRnRQvpaNt2tl_PtFlmHuDvm7E52SR9KUJUOgduqGk/s1600/halloween-photos-kids-parties.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Halloween Photos of Kids Parties" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoXB1k_ku2djGrDT98lOaMAfWy6dL9mc67raGQbfmDkMHrbTKA9mgX5whUNWnYk6qwY6tQo4UKpgL4IiZdnEh-Mxez_QWaNZP4OQRnRQvpaNt2tl_PtFlmHuDvm7E52SR9KUJUOgduqGk/s1600/halloween-photos-kids-parties.jpg" title="Halloween Photos of Kids Parties" /></a></div>
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Plus, Party City really has everything you need to get a party going from big decorations to little details like this <a href="http://www.partycity.com/product/black+baroque+frame.do#.UDbxvHe183E.pinterest" target="_blank">small ornate picture frame</a> featuring one of my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/110263550/halloween-printable-party-collection" target="_blank"><b>mini "Happy Halloween" candy bar wrappers</b></a>. And, you know me...I love details! Plus, they've got a great selection of candy for any type of celebration, especially if you love to color coordinate your treats like I do. Party City even has lots of elegant, <a href="http://www.partycity.com/product/elegant+fall+orange+plastic+platter.do#.UDb8Ky9-Pg4.pinterest" target="_blank">shimmery plastic serving pieces</a> that would be lovely enough to use for Thanksgiving.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaKF5V9n-Z24AGCKcxCPepmNucHGuQvalIiWW0xCGImQo_1SKNff8BlxCqZA8fXkCwICwdxiS2e3lQouqJ4z1QdTZb6LAAZX1b42uqX64w2v2s60Rrd7HSy2nqNE8KrID7xRjEpmRWfI0/s1600/halloween-candy-party-city.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Halloween Candy Party City" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaKF5V9n-Z24AGCKcxCPepmNucHGuQvalIiWW0xCGImQo_1SKNff8BlxCqZA8fXkCwICwdxiS2e3lQouqJ4z1QdTZb6LAAZX1b42uqX64w2v2s60Rrd7HSy2nqNE8KrID7xRjEpmRWfI0/s1600/halloween-candy-party-city.jpg" title="Halloween Candy from Party City" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib4o2BY1IAnf2Cu8u_YP8yBhbGhmxMEH9atwfQ0NKm6Bt4iYZItCMXKpLmkT-3ah_X0Cc8gwR5y3FBYgxQhdFW59Zqv6obp66LNpgepVnjVoxzCYpkhII_cXQOu9ySsaH0biI6vTbAScU/s1600/halloween-candy-party-city.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
I love creating a fun focal point for my parties with a touch of unexpected. I used <a href="http://www.partycity.com/product/black+new+years+paper+fan+decoration+16in.do#.UDb0OduKygs.pinterest" target="_blank">five black tissue paper fans</a> from Party City to create a dramatic backdrop for my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/110263550/halloween-printable-party-collection" target="_blank"><b>Printable "Trick or Treat" party banner</b></a>. In front of that, I used two coordinating <a href="http://www.partycity.com/product/black+paper+garland+12ft.do#.UDb1OeBzs_0.pinterest" target="_blank">12 ft tissue paper garland</a> to create a unique up-side-down pumpkin chandelier for the party. These tissue paper fans and garland give you a lot of bang for your buck and are super easy to work with!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYfCqF1B41IjkoyblfVyNFaBNCxvVU4dT8twWYOQHme05pLJk8zDECWrGg-aMqYDTws8r9cgOGChEIEbXW2mHta92-jQZ4EYWqOEOjm6ccC_u3lF42nYpClJbiEjzZNGJ_ezcga22_drI/s1600/printable-halloween-party.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Printable Halloween Party" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYfCqF1B41IjkoyblfVyNFaBNCxvVU4dT8twWYOQHme05pLJk8zDECWrGg-aMqYDTws8r9cgOGChEIEbXW2mHta92-jQZ4EYWqOEOjm6ccC_u3lF42nYpClJbiEjzZNGJ_ezcga22_drI/s1600/printable-halloween-party.jpg" title="Printable Halloween Party by Belly Feathers" /></a></div>
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What's a spooky Halloween party without some sweets? Party City has all of the candy you need for Halloween, too. You've probably seen me use <a href="http://www.partycity.com/product/orange+gumballs+16oz.do#.UDb9UAc-rtM.pinterest" target="_blank">Party City's solid gumballs</a> for parties in the past. They are such a fabulous way to add a pop of color, and you should see how excited the kids get to reach inside a candy jar of these. That's why these gumballs are a must-have for any of my kids' parties. I also got some candy corn, ghost Peeps, and cute <a href="http://www.partycity.com/product/black+candy+sticks.do#.UDbuzp0UT0w.pinterest" target="_blank">black candy sticks</a> there, too. Even though the candy sticks are black, they have a super yummy grape flavor and don't leave your mouth dyed black, which I love for keeping the kids cute and clean in their costumes.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijGX49XHtCFl0_RTKqVbZo0MdH3AvpgEttT64JoVpw58uS5H6sEwOhBH21VYjcXSY4cnC6jnXe2vj0sVF_HzNOc6RgPgz9_-ZOgX-U_CgaOWWgydynXj-2Kim_4pmYfN38dF-6mashSF8/s1600/halloween-dessert-buffet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Halloween Dessert Buffet" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijGX49XHtCFl0_RTKqVbZo0MdH3AvpgEttT64JoVpw58uS5H6sEwOhBH21VYjcXSY4cnC6jnXe2vj0sVF_HzNOc6RgPgz9_-ZOgX-U_CgaOWWgydynXj-2Kim_4pmYfN38dF-6mashSF8/s1600/halloween-dessert-buffet.jpg" title="Halloween Dessert Buffet by Belly Feathers" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiAMKXRj8-65h7vveYCP4r_AH9EwNZw6KBgizrrOTHVp2gEk3IzNTvlOsyOs3nSjxNVXhMsWtKYteUEtIkcEd76Yk1KIclBmu88_zOAeBhIfT25wQAWPi1MlQTY7QTPCuqUGknDatWU9k/s1600/halloween-pics-party.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Halloween Pics from Kids Party" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiAMKXRj8-65h7vveYCP4r_AH9EwNZw6KBgizrrOTHVp2gEk3IzNTvlOsyOs3nSjxNVXhMsWtKYteUEtIkcEd76Yk1KIclBmu88_zOAeBhIfT25wQAWPi1MlQTY7QTPCuqUGknDatWU9k/s1600/halloween-pics-party.jpg" title="Halloween Pics from Kids Party with Ghost Peeps" /></a></div>
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The main attraction of the menu were definitely the fabulous cookies designed by <b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/TickledPinkCB" target="_blank">Lindsey Agree of Tickled Pink Cookie Boutique</a></b>. They were so stunning in person with a sparkly finish and intricate details. Not only did they perfectly coordinate with the <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/110263550/halloween-printable-party-collection" target="_blank"><b>eerie and cheery Halloween Printables</b></a>,
but they also tasted AMAZING with a hint of almond extract that made
them absolutely irresistible. Lindsey was fantastic to work with, too. I
sent her some inspiration images, and she came up with these
coordinating cookies that couldn't have been more perfect on this
shimmery plastic tray from Party City. Lindsey books up fast, so if
you'd like to get some holiday cookies, place your order now. Sarah
Brewer and I have already booked her for our Christmas cookies...yes,
they are that good! Lindsey ships, too.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmmLCSCqR00yzKO5Q6Z4ha6t6vaE4WYdLhug9DpZIouA-EwNECk7TTGq1utsaktOAo8EXSD7Jd3TagZ1MybNPooAo-EpdXqWKLoh033-xm8KtykXlMvMUJ_Xq1G3zznQSAobFQ45JR1A0/s1600/halloween-cookies-tickled-pink.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Halloween Cookies by Tickled Pink Cookie Boutique" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmmLCSCqR00yzKO5Q6Z4ha6t6vaE4WYdLhug9DpZIouA-EwNECk7TTGq1utsaktOAo8EXSD7Jd3TagZ1MybNPooAo-EpdXqWKLoh033-xm8KtykXlMvMUJ_Xq1G3zznQSAobFQ45JR1A0/s1600/halloween-cookies-tickled-pink.jpg" title="Halloween Cookies by Tickled Pink Cookie Boutique" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC2lkNU3zv2_gZAZw5buxC22_Q5ejzccxB3NP4t5UtgahNT9GagDiPjTSSe-RrjEnIfTcs4fUE5QWQGC6sBmpDoFWjfhG-UE-QZHj0zkHowNNhhtyGZNnc6sX35cFylXbk3WeVicwUNVo/s1600/halloween-sweets-tickled-pink.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Halloween Sweets by Tickled Pink Cookie Boutique" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC2lkNU3zv2_gZAZw5buxC22_Q5ejzccxB3NP4t5UtgahNT9GagDiPjTSSe-RrjEnIfTcs4fUE5QWQGC6sBmpDoFWjfhG-UE-QZHj0zkHowNNhhtyGZNnc6sX35cFylXbk3WeVicwUNVo/s1600/halloween-sweets-tickled-pink.jpg" title="Halloween Sweets by Tickled Pink Cookie Boutique" /></a></div>
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We had lots of easy Halloween snacks at the party, too, such as Ghost S'Mores, Candy Corn Popcorn Balls, Mini Chocolate Bars, Little Debbie Cupcakes, Witch's Potion Punch, and Cutie Clementines for a healthy treat. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsPfu_ugppm0WD7cS9yyi9Yee7ZFq9DAtlQVEs371U-_dKp0UzfyDVjyTNH1l0PTq7ooYptBq9H2A6_2GFXasG3C4KRBeFuoua9bEaJR-BiP8Wj6bsN0W08nh1TnCkz-PVkivh-eG1sNU/s1600/halloween-snacks-party.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Halloween Snacks for Party" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsPfu_ugppm0WD7cS9yyi9Yee7ZFq9DAtlQVEs371U-_dKp0UzfyDVjyTNH1l0PTq7ooYptBq9H2A6_2GFXasG3C4KRBeFuoua9bEaJR-BiP8Wj6bsN0W08nh1TnCkz-PVkivh-eG1sNU/s1600/halloween-snacks-party.jpg" title="Halloween Snacks for Party - Candy Corn Popcorn Balls" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj79klJ7OO-1iKzx0SIk3SUbnLPtOwMocuBl2HI6F9R200akVqeitLcjBU_AqZjzjvzNRpBbmb5qYnMV71sF4xR99d5IdM2ZLFhEA8rFyTNZVNO29iaXaGyJ89w1JDmiagCbreM_dAFfBI/s1600/halloween-food.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Halloweeen Food for Kids Party" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj79klJ7OO-1iKzx0SIk3SUbnLPtOwMocuBl2HI6F9R200akVqeitLcjBU_AqZjzjvzNRpBbmb5qYnMV71sF4xR99d5IdM2ZLFhEA8rFyTNZVNO29iaXaGyJ89w1JDmiagCbreM_dAFfBI/s1600/halloween-food.jpg" title="Halloweeen Food for Kids Party" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmIV8O1VjD4QtxAiwBWuUe3ZhPHHgCQ-s0-h_R0kF0ul4RgsYdgIQGyYOLiOb_GzHmzojgsMkqkr92e2mmtmQub2Cw1ZqJtfbIffGdHDYNz297-vXUkzWBFBhAJ4pDMR3_ZGuj70_97C0/s1600/printable-wrappers-candy-bars.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Printable Wrappers for Halloween Candy Bars" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmIV8O1VjD4QtxAiwBWuUe3ZhPHHgCQ-s0-h_R0kF0ul4RgsYdgIQGyYOLiOb_GzHmzojgsMkqkr92e2mmtmQub2Cw1ZqJtfbIffGdHDYNz297-vXUkzWBFBhAJ4pDMR3_ZGuj70_97C0/s1600/printable-wrappers-candy-bars.jpg" title="Printable Wrappers for Halloween Candy Bars by Belly Feathers" /></a></div>
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And, what's a Belly Feathers Party without a party favor? I couldn't resist sending the kids home with a little something cute from a party. These adorable <a href="http://heyyoyo.com/item/Medium-Chevron-Bags-Orange/964/c67" target="_blank">chevron bags came from Hey Yo Yo</a>, and I added a little Halloween flair by attaching the mini candy bar wrappers from my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/110263550/halloween-printable-party-collection" target="_blank"><b>Halloween Printables collection</b></a> to the front. You can have so much fun with printables by using the items in unexpected ways like this. Inside the bag, I added a fun little trumpet flute whistle from Party City that was STEAL at only 35 cents, along with a package of Little Debbie Orange Peanut Butter crackers that perfectly coordinated with the party's color scheme. Plus, the kids got to load up their bags with as many Halloween sweets as they wanted...there were a lot of questions about those gumballs and candy sticks, let me tell you!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVWUlBbUOhDdw5vmfGR2BnWHoWzHNDckKD5eg5wrQlKGjlCOGClLDSiSXhSEppHy2Q-O1vTPPJUscIBzVnAJ4QgG4PCTFIeCv3ApgRaxfyxg8Rp9aDBU8yP2LSP3NNjqRJgmFbr0Ri1xQ/s1600/halloween-printable-party-favors.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Halloween Printable Party Favors" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVWUlBbUOhDdw5vmfGR2BnWHoWzHNDckKD5eg5wrQlKGjlCOGClLDSiSXhSEppHy2Q-O1vTPPJUscIBzVnAJ4QgG4PCTFIeCv3ApgRaxfyxg8Rp9aDBU8yP2LSP3NNjqRJgmFbr0Ri1xQ/s1600/halloween-printable-party-favors.jpg" title="Halloween Printable Party Favors" /></a></div>
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This party has too many details to share in just one post, so stay tuned all month long to learn more about the Party City costumes, Halloween treats, decorations, easy craft how-tos, and more. For a larger list of my favorite Halloween party items from Party City, check out this <a href="http://pinterest.com/bellyfeathers/halloween-party-city-favorites/" target="_blank"><b>Halloween - Party City Favorites board on Pinterest</b></a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX94PZAiLoq-IpXolJ2B6tvcdZI1DdkBfo55yqXai_C_-UK-7VHq-9ZSUfc-X9fjEvBTx7BlV16T5Amoo1sGfcwjHDkNHViJ8pkJiLoECMBD6ucqAS0sAASdh8sUXGvT5aJHz59zIfyFw/s1600/halloween-party-sources.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Party City, Click Photo Designs, Tickled Pink Cookie Boutique, & Belly Feathers" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX94PZAiLoq-IpXolJ2B6tvcdZI1DdkBfo55yqXai_C_-UK-7VHq-9ZSUfc-X9fjEvBTx7BlV16T5Amoo1sGfcwjHDkNHViJ8pkJiLoECMBD6ucqAS0sAASdh8sUXGvT5aJHz59zIfyFw/s1600/halloween-party-sources.jpg" title="Party City, Click Photo Designs, Tickled Pink Cookie Boutique, & Belly Feathers" /></a></div>
<b>Sources:</b><br />
<a href="http://www.partycity.com/" target="_blank">Party City</a> - candy, costumes, frame, paper fans, streamers, orange serving platter, favor whitsles<br />
<a href="http://clickphotodesigns.com/" target="_blank">Click Photo Designs by Sarah Brewer</a> - photography<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/TickledPinkCB" target="_blank">Tickeled Pink Cookie Boutique</a> - cookies<br />
<a href="http://heyyoyo.com/" target="_blank">Hey Yo Yo</a> - Straws, monster mix cups, treat bags<br />
<a href="http://bellyfeathers.com/" target="_blank">Belly Feathers</a> - Halloween Party Printables and event styling<div class="blogger-post-footer"><p></p>
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<img border="0" height="105" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DwCtmQbp0MI/THhX4Cq0W-I/AAAAAAAADm4/pL3yRhefU3o/s400/belly-feathers-party-rss-feed.jpg" width="400" //></div>
<p align=center>See my products & services at <a href=http://www.BellyFeathers.com>BellyFeathers.com.</a></p>
<p align=center><a href=http://www.facebook.com/BellyFeathers>Join the Belly Feathers community on Facebook.</a></p></div>Betsy Pruitt of Belly Feathershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12583143550706244500noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4403212839025640928.post-51595265245825353862012-09-19T06:30:00.000-05:002012-09-19T06:30:04.276-05:00A Magical Santa Experience {Photo Session}You're invited to a Magical Santa Experience in Mooresville, AL, on Saturday, November 17th. Have your child's photo taken with Santa and so much more!<br />
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Build the anticipation for Christmas in your child's heart. Imagine their excitement as they open the mail to find a <b>letter from Santa </b>telling them of his upcoming visit. Each letter includes a number that matches a <b>special surprise at the event</b> held at the charming <b><a href="http://1818farms.com/" target="_blank">1818 Farms in Mooresville, Alabama</a></b>. <br />
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After arriving, your child will have an exclusive visit with Santa himself, while the amazing <a href="http://clickphotodesigns.com/" target="_blank"><b>Sarah Brewer of Click Photo Designs</b></a> captures this special moment. You'll receive <b>five digital photos</b> that you can print an unlimited number of times for your Christmas cards, scrapbooks, and treasured keepsakes. <br /><br />Then your family is welcome to <b>enjoy some homemade browned butter iced cookies</b> baked by yours truly, Betsy Pruitt of Belly Feathers, while your child enjoys a <b>fun activity</b> in the warmth of the 1818 Farms classroom.<br /><br /><b>One child will be chosen to grace the cover of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/madisonliving" target="_blank">Madison Living Magazine's December issue</a>. </b> By participating, you'll also have access to a variety of Christmas
Cards designed by Belly Feathers exclusively available to Click Photo
Designs' customers.<br /><br /><b>This entire experience is available for $100.</b> Contact Sara Brewer at <a href="mailto:clickphotodesigns@gmail.com">clickphotodesigns@gmail.com</a> to reserve your child's Santa experience.<br />
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<i>"I am so excited to be doing a collaboration shoot in conjunction with
Belly Feathers, 1818 Farms, and Chrissie's Collection!" shares Sarah Brewer of Click Photo Designs. "By working with a
group of super talented local small business owners, I believe we can
create a totally unique and memorable experience that <b>your kids will be
talking about all year!</b> More than just a visit to Santa, your kids will
enjoy a magical Christmas experience that will leave them full of
wonder and anticipation for Santa's visit!" </i><br />
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<b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/chrissiescollection" target="_blank">Chrissie's Collection</a></b> will be designing some gorgeous hand-painted furniture pieces just for this photo shoot to create a unique look, while the 1818 Farms provides a scenic backdrop unlike any Santa photo session you've ever seen. And, of course, Click Photo Designs by Sarah Brewer will be there to capture the magical expression on your child's face as they see Santa for the first time this season. I'm so excited to be styling this one-of-a-kind event and can't wait to see you there!<br />
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If you're looking to have your kids picture taken with Santa this year in Huntsville or Madison, AL, you won't want to miss this Magical Santa Experience! <b>Only seven spaces are left</b>, so contact Sarah Brewer at <a href="mailto:clickphotodesigns@gmail.com">clickphotodesigns@gmail.com</a> to reserve your child's experience now.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><p></p>
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<img border="0" height="105" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DwCtmQbp0MI/THhX4Cq0W-I/AAAAAAAADm4/pL3yRhefU3o/s400/belly-feathers-party-rss-feed.jpg" width="400" //></div>
<p align=center>See my products & services at <a href=http://www.BellyFeathers.com>BellyFeathers.com.</a></p>
<p align=center><a href=http://www.facebook.com/BellyFeathers>Join the Belly Feathers community on Facebook.</a></p></div>Betsy Pruitt of Belly Feathershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12583143550706244500noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4403212839025640928.post-81039084642357188732012-09-11T06:30:00.000-05:002012-09-11T06:30:02.896-05:00Back to School Party FunBack to School is such an exciting time of year. Lots of anticipation for the school year ahead, butterflies in the tummy, and reuniting with little friends you haven't seen in what seems like an eternity. I miss those days, so it was a thrill to get to style a <b>Back-to-School Party</b> for the cover of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=401504263238793&set=a.401501819905704.102050.107444119311477&type=1&theater" target="_blank">Madison Living magazine's September issue</a>.<br />
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<i>For all you sentimental mommies, I think it helps to look at these photos with <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dVplCH93Jb8" target="_blank">"This Time of Year" by Better Than Ezra</a> playing in the background...it's my fall jam!</i><br />
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All of these wonderful photos were taken by the amazing, <b><a href="http://clickphotodesigns.com/" target="_blank">Sarah Brewer of Click Photo Designs</a></b>. I love working with her on special events. She's fabulous at capturing all of the special little moments, so I highly recommend her for your children's birthday parties and especially family photos. If you book a session with her in 2012, you'll get exclusive access to Christmas Cards designed by Belly Feathers. A special perk just for <a href="http://clickphotodesigns.com/" target="_blank"><b>Click Photo Designs</b></a> customers.<br />
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I love how this pencil vase turned out. It's just a mason jar surrounded by pencils held on with an elastic band, which is nicely hidden by the green polka dot ribbon. Super easy and super cute! This mini chalkboard was quite a find in Target's Dollar Spot section for only $2.50. I think I'll have a lot of fun with this around our house, too.<br />
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One of the best parts of school is snack time. We had little cartons of
pretend apple juice and butter cookies with the little holes in the
center strung together with red and white baker's twine.<br />
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The super adorable outfits the kids are wearing were all provided by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BonnieBlueChildrensBoutique?ref=ts" target="_blank">Bonnie Blue Boutique</a>. Isn't the headband above just gorgeous?! This whole outfit is by Persnickety, and Bonnie Blue Boutique just happens to be the largest retailer of this clothing line in Alabama. I can see why! Owner Jennifer is fabulous at helping you pick out a great outfit, and I particularly love Persnickety because all of the pieces are mix and match, so you can create a really versatile wardrobe out of just a few pieces.<br />
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All of the decor for the party was simple and sweet. I based everything off a cute apple rubber stamp and fresh green and red apples. I had my heart set on a chalkboard for the kids to play with, and when we couldn't find one, I made this one out of a thrift store mirror and chalkboard spray paint - a much easier project than I thought. I love using my cupcake stand in non-traditional ways, and the fresh apples couldn't have been cuter displayed on it.<br />
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Hope everyone has a great school year full of bright ideas, special memories, and of course, fun <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/BellyFeathers?page=1&section_id=&order=" target="_blank">PARTIES</a>! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB9xE5Dgx87bp9V-b-5_7EZ842cXHXqsdxeTgI0ohaw_1UMYTkPl1J_Wf0I-78qX2j-_uWpMI8sL4yuXQngCYZiFFcvV_-ngdq2PNP8L5k0SXu0NYi4_tc5KiHUC3kxl-1DuZxatfcujc/s1600/school-party-ideas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="School Party Ideas" border="0" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB9xE5Dgx87bp9V-b-5_7EZ842cXHXqsdxeTgI0ohaw_1UMYTkPl1J_Wf0I-78qX2j-_uWpMI8sL4yuXQngCYZiFFcvV_-ngdq2PNP8L5k0SXu0NYi4_tc5KiHUC3kxl-1DuZxatfcujc/s640/school-party-ideas.jpg" title="School Party Ideas" width="640" /></a></div>
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To see more Back-to-School Party photos, check out the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=401504263238793&set=a.401501819905704.102050.107444119311477&type=1&theater" target="_blank">September issue of Madison Living magazine</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=401504263238793&set=a.401501819905704.102050.107444119311477&type=1&theater" target="_blank"><img alt="Madison Living September 2012" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwkMOuODtHjINoVlzfKGX9MoyJONRIt6GPiwaVX-Jz7S9ZXXT8iqSwQAbqRtT_eiSRMZ_SeROXw4m_ufdhvFK2KFFyniLw7ZZjiPbObKAcTjTnWy4wI1YLTnnxe_kTOr1DmFep-rr8F2k/s320/madison-living-back-to-school.png" title="Madison Living September 2012" width="320" /></a></div>
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<img border="0" height="105" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DwCtmQbp0MI/THhX4Cq0W-I/AAAAAAAADm4/pL3yRhefU3o/s400/belly-feathers-party-rss-feed.jpg" width="400" //></div>
<p align=center>See my products & services at <a href=http://www.BellyFeathers.com>BellyFeathers.com.</a></p>
<p align=center><a href=http://www.facebook.com/BellyFeathers>Join the Belly Feathers community on Facebook.</a></p></div>Betsy Pruitt of Belly Feathershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12583143550706244500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4403212839025640928.post-52790364309033636652012-08-20T19:03:00.005-05:002012-09-11T00:50:33.746-05:00Keeping the Party Perfection Monster AwayAre you afraid of the <b>Party Perfection Monster</b>? <i>I am!</i> Luckily, I've learned some easy ways to keep him away, and I'm pleased to have them featured in <a href="http://letspartymagazine.com/diy/keep-the-party-perfection-monster-away/" target="_blank"><b>Let's Party Magazine</b></a> today. <a href="http://letspartymagazine.com/diy/keep-the-party-perfection-monster-away/" target="_blank">Go check them out! </a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcuobrCKYRzPuUOYW7cLcZpXGRIoho2J6dleMhVHtPwvG0zDMZCuJaNHdPhyphenhyphen9TddkaNs7vSrkg6C4y06nbEc5m_K91uGgYzTEf7HT49rhzHwfLsCYKXvjo34ajtFy2PLy3CHOR3lzXEkI/s1600/party-perfection-monster-belly-feathers.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="338" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcuobrCKYRzPuUOYW7cLcZpXGRIoho2J6dleMhVHtPwvG0zDMZCuJaNHdPhyphenhyphen9TddkaNs7vSrkg6C4y06nbEc5m_K91uGgYzTEf7HT49rhzHwfLsCYKXvjo34ajtFy2PLy3CHOR3lzXEkI/s400/party-perfection-monster-belly-feathers.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i>Not sure what the Party Perfection Monster is?</i> Head over to <a href="http://letspartymagazine.com/diy/keep-the-party-perfection-monster-away/" target="_blank">Let's Party Magazine</a>...he may be haunting you.<br />
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I'm also thrilled to share my <b>"Frazzled to Fabulous: How to Plan a Party to Remember"</b> workshop again. I'll be at the <a href="http://hmcpl.org/2012/07/frazzled-fabulous-how-plan-party-remember" target="_blank"><b>Madison Public Library</b></a> this Saturday, August 25 at 2:00 pm. If you're planning to attend, I'd love to know! <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/388312547890485/" target="_blank">Please RSVP on Facebook.</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHvknGWoyQ6R3EL2UNNUDte-t30NYTgvQ_NGEdFzhhiRrhbeWiAXPw32b0xYegARin5hLnTrhJ-ou7yIYWfuNKFQSr9eMSDXVFI1dg1tLbSjT9VRISPJjZD0ovH9_VhT6jk4P9hv5pwwg/s1600/how-to-plan-party-belly-feathers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHvknGWoyQ6R3EL2UNNUDte-t30NYTgvQ_NGEdFzhhiRrhbeWiAXPw32b0xYegARin5hLnTrhJ-ou7yIYWfuNKFQSr9eMSDXVFI1dg1tLbSjT9VRISPJjZD0ovH9_VhT6jk4P9hv5pwwg/s400/how-to-plan-party-belly-feathers.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<img border="0" height="105" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DwCtmQbp0MI/THhX4Cq0W-I/AAAAAAAADm4/pL3yRhefU3o/s400/belly-feathers-party-rss-feed.jpg" width="400" //></div>
<p align=center>See my products & services at <a href=http://www.BellyFeathers.com>BellyFeathers.com.</a></p>
<p align=center><a href=http://www.facebook.com/BellyFeathers>Join the Belly Feathers community on Facebook.</a></p></div>Betsy Pruitt of Belly Feathershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12583143550706244500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4403212839025640928.post-21798779407181733522012-07-25T21:56:00.001-05:002012-09-11T00:50:58.117-05:00How to Plan a Party Video SeriesMy <b>Frazzled to Fabulous: How to Plan a Party to Remember </b><a href="http://bellyfeathersparty.blogspot.com/2012/07/frazzled-to-fabulous-how-to-plan-party.html">workshop last Saturday</a> was really well received by both party planning beginners and experts, which was a real treat to hear. And, since I had a few requests, I decided to record an abbreviated version of the presentation to share.<br />
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I hope you enjoy the tips in this <a href="http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL591000F038A04695" target="_blank"><b>three-part video series</b></a>:<br />
<ul>
<li>Daydream (Part 1)</li>
<li>Lists, Lists, & More Lists (Part 2) </li>
<li>Seem Effortless (Part 3)</li>
</ul>
You'll learn how to remove the stress and uncertainty from planning a party, so you can become a graceful and effortless hostess. <i>Are you ready to go from Frazzled to Fabulous?</i><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="253" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/videoseries?list=PL591000F038A04695&hl=en_US" width="450"></iframe>
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I'd love to know what you think!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><p></p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="105" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DwCtmQbp0MI/THhX4Cq0W-I/AAAAAAAADm4/pL3yRhefU3o/s400/belly-feathers-party-rss-feed.jpg" width="400" //></div>
<p align=center>See my products & services at <a href=http://www.BellyFeathers.com>BellyFeathers.com.</a></p>
<p align=center><a href=http://www.facebook.com/BellyFeathers>Join the Belly Feathers community on Facebook.</a></p></div>Betsy Pruitt of Belly Feathershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12583143550706244500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4403212839025640928.post-90491333764281019762012-07-11T20:01:00.001-05:002012-09-11T00:51:09.436-05:00Frazzled to Fabulous: How to Plan a Party to RememberDo you love the idea of hosting a party but get discouraged when it
comes to pulling all the details together? <i>No need to feel frazzled! </i><br />
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<b>UPDATE: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL591000F038A04695" target="_blank">Watch the three-part How to Plan a Party video series of this presentation on YouTube. </a></b><br />
<b> </b>
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I'll be presenting my favorite tips that make party planning fun and stress-free at the <a href="http://hmcpl.org/murphy" target="_blank">Huntsville Madison County Public Library's Eleanor Murphy Branch</a> on <b>Saturday, July 21 at 10:00 am in Huntsville, AL</b>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr11QW1GwdNB5eOatwMB1mEIQkL5bX77bsf9l8RDAyXF73odcLGd63HAHTAPOfC9xbXpL5Q7gmbKM72I5eE_4FeulDEgIeXhpNXA9VVSqz731OJR1H1lyC6lounqM74_oGrBi9C0cM0b0/s1600/how-to-plan-party-date-time.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img alt="Frazzled to Fabulous: How to Plan a Party to Remember" border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr11QW1GwdNB5eOatwMB1mEIQkL5bX77bsf9l8RDAyXF73odcLGd63HAHTAPOfC9xbXpL5Q7gmbKM72I5eE_4FeulDEgIeXhpNXA9VVSqz731OJR1H1lyC6lounqM74_oGrBi9C0cM0b0/s400/how-to-plan-party-date-time.jpg" title="" width="400" /></a></div>
I'm super excited about this live presentation (my first in many years), so I'd love to have your support and, more importantly, get the opportunity to meet you in person! I've got lots of tips that have made all the difference in the world in my party planning and hosting, and I can't wait to share them with you.<br />
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Seating is limited. <b>Sign up to attend by
calling Eleanor Murphy Branch Library at 256-881-5620.</b> If you call after hours, just leave a message on the answering machine to RSVP.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><p></p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="105" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DwCtmQbp0MI/THhX4Cq0W-I/AAAAAAAADm4/pL3yRhefU3o/s400/belly-feathers-party-rss-feed.jpg" width="400" //></div>
<p align=center>See my products & services at <a href=http://www.BellyFeathers.com>BellyFeathers.com.</a></p>
<p align=center><a href=http://www.facebook.com/BellyFeathers>Join the Belly Feathers community on Facebook.</a></p></div>Betsy Pruitt of Belly Feathershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12583143550706244500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4403212839025640928.post-452559873510749872012-07-03T19:19:00.003-05:002012-09-11T00:52:11.043-05:00Free Summer Printable Files for Memorial Day, 4th of July & Labor DayIn case you missed them earlier this summer, here are some <a href="http://bit.ly/summer-holiday-printables" target="_blank"><b>free Summer Holiday Printables</b></a> I designed just for fun. Included in the <b>summer printable file</b> are two sizes of graphics and ideas for how to use them on all the major summer holidays: Memorial Day, 4th of July and Labor Day.<br />
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<a href="http://bit.ly/summer-holiday-printables" target="_blank"><img alt="Summer Printable Files for Free" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirJ6dl4wHUQlqTVNo0Ql6vQBwAmweU4V_7fk-yq7kpsy4TZpehS1z2gK3hm6xL9suZBYSZzV-F0hxmIdT8TacBm9e_Yf8K2FjPMiKcyY8KCGiiaEtXYh348UiQJ45WysPp4K1zz6M4a0I/s400/summer-printable-free.jpg" title="" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/summer-holiday-printables" target="_blank"><img alt="Free Memorial Day Printables" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMMZNwxt-OuRod7DVnuVPO-NUmG-QcZwXMJILKIWRkLm7UtQDbvsCSKbKamC-SK0Y2zz9hKn1Ohb9EP5zch0FvfkiEgvbX1v_STkqGwg7cKo9K-5nA82rqiOW4lrK6lLNbEvtazTsUaTY/s400/free-memorial-day-printables.jpg" title="" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/summer-holiday-printables" target="_blank"><img alt="4th of July Printable Files" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcoBbxhbJzgC3BZ-wMdn4zGlKFvpX4i5TfLaMr54iIFPRAVGNlrch94hhZCYauar0Vut6cEaW1LYh8gid2n82rXuF0jxKFveOUOpgLlfS_v0ltKcOMj6UEjTSSyjB78PUibrMAe7GwFpM/s400/4th-of-july-printables.jpg" title="" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/summer-holiday-printables" target="_blank"><img alt="Free Labor Day Printable Files" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb20CeWe_fblwgvce6fZ1RAEyqPMIgG91WUDj0IngkD7slGofjLOkB882-1bgxl_d9JIMD4IXp_GeVdLDXL1WcNk4M_qunl6UuV3V741LuHgZ2xpxifGS1gdR0XyDlpBmCW0rL2O6Yj2Q/s400/free-labor-day-printable.jpg" title="" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i>Hope you enjoy! </i><b><a href="http://bit.ly/summer-holiday-printables" target="_blank">Download the Summer Printable PDF file now. </a></b><div class="blogger-post-footer"><p></p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="105" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DwCtmQbp0MI/THhX4Cq0W-I/AAAAAAAADm4/pL3yRhefU3o/s400/belly-feathers-party-rss-feed.jpg" width="400" //></div>
<p align=center>See my products & services at <a href=http://www.BellyFeathers.com>BellyFeathers.com.</a></p>
<p align=center><a href=http://www.facebook.com/BellyFeathers>Join the Belly Feathers community on Facebook.</a></p></div>Betsy Pruitt of Belly Feathershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12583143550706244500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4403212839025640928.post-64099565378196162442012-06-20T20:37:00.001-05:002012-09-11T00:53:22.959-05:00Paper Doll Tea Party :: Sweet Simplicity<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHWrJCM-F7mXeSrAHJf5uJ3LE1DOoAzig1iehAk2xoOXcVAKmXI9nNUwCYJfuCRmm9YNKl4WsQwfs7ub3ZFRxjMvtzHefZbxlG31XL3IDGumROsht_l8EQw4F_IZhoeuJpJ0KxLZG9GyA/s1600/paper-dolls-tea-party.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Paper Dolls Tea Party" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHWrJCM-F7mXeSrAHJf5uJ3LE1DOoAzig1iehAk2xoOXcVAKmXI9nNUwCYJfuCRmm9YNKl4WsQwfs7ub3ZFRxjMvtzHefZbxlG31XL3IDGumROsht_l8EQw4F_IZhoeuJpJ0KxLZG9GyA/s1600/paper-dolls-tea-party.jpg" /></a></div>
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Ever since I saw <a href="http://www.minimepaperdolls.com/" target="_blank"><b>Lily & Thistle's Mini Me Paper Dolls</b></a>, I have been *dreaming* about throwing a <b>Paper Dolls Tea Party</b>. I absolutely love that you can personalize the dolls to look like your daughter and her friends. Plus, there's just something charming and timeless about paper dolls that goes perfectly with a tea party. Well, this grown-up little girl got her wish thanks to some help from my good friend <a href="http://clickphotodesigns.com/" target="_blank">Sarah Brewer at Click Photo Designs</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BonnieBlueChildrensBoutique" target="_blank">Bonnie Blue Boutique</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=342274385828448&set=a.342270735828813.90547.107444119311477&type=3&theater" target="_blank">Madison Living magazine</a>, and of course, the very talented <a href="http://www.minimepaperdolls.com/" target="_blank">Hannah Stevenson at Mini Me Paper Dolls</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUe431qbOM3hxzINzstI-0Ep34SMxEYcgz-iP4QQbj9fGwbW3i0aCfKQpUcV1ox1AAtygDQsDWZL3x_9mizf87dsPuisu4eIb6mSzoCfU8G9FKkJ2l6kkpOxPgOeOsGUF0gNIu9lpfrxA/s1600/printable-paper-dolls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Printable Paper Dolls" border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUe431qbOM3hxzINzstI-0Ep34SMxEYcgz-iP4QQbj9fGwbW3i0aCfKQpUcV1ox1AAtygDQsDWZL3x_9mizf87dsPuisu4eIb6mSzoCfU8G9FKkJ2l6kkpOxPgOeOsGUF0gNIu9lpfrxA/s400/printable-paper-dolls.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I had so much fun cutting out these paper dolls! I went with Mini Me's printable option, which super affordable and allows you to print off as many copies as you want. For example, you could have a paper doll designed to look like your daughter for $14.50 and give a copy to all of the guests at her party for one flat price. If you're having a small party, it's super special to have a doll designed to look like each of your guests (discounted party packages are available), and you can print off copies of all of these friends for your daughter to play with long after the party. As guests arrive, I highly recommend having scissors, so they can start cutting out outfits for their paper dolls. Have fun bling like rhinestones, glitter, mini flowers, ribbon, and other accessories for them to add extra flair, too.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwDQG_msCnFt8bnUjtdVfaViNZcwls33BpNqz0EuRLPvcuUzohmPdCO33r5rLcOhWU-Evu4t37Q8fkDC_ycTME9JCLAWLSVzb6RtZJN0JWGwektX4y_1EWSVFLtohvLHlPGizU_-XQTx4/s1600/dress-up-tea-party.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Dress Up Tea Party" border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwDQG_msCnFt8bnUjtdVfaViNZcwls33BpNqz0EuRLPvcuUzohmPdCO33r5rLcOhWU-Evu4t37Q8fkDC_ycTME9JCLAWLSVzb6RtZJN0JWGwektX4y_1EWSVFLtohvLHlPGizU_-XQTx4/s400/dress-up-tea-party.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Tulle is one of my go-to crafting supplies because its so easy to work with and makes a big impact. It was perfect for adding a little flair to this tea tray I found at <a href="http://www.homegoods.com/" target="_blank">Home Goods</a>. (By the way, I'm so excited to finally be getting a Home Good in my town...YAY!) I found some adorable punch cups at my local Salvation Army Thrift Store, which were perfect of a little girl's tea party. Thanks to my Facebook fan, Shannon Belew, for tipping me off to all the great finds there.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjemWf_MqM1fETi9HCbV1eNekw08BQIwRaDZkYHqkqcXSmxlQW84ulbC-7MT96r5RJHJv1WLmgoR2VjxKk3KGgTYmOAqpvGKKsFWNJzEGqdg5WMeNe6hiD534W2yUgUnHeB87MuNXelESg/s1600/personalized-paper-dolls-party.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Personalized Paper Dolls" border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjemWf_MqM1fETi9HCbV1eNekw08BQIwRaDZkYHqkqcXSmxlQW84ulbC-7MT96r5RJHJv1WLmgoR2VjxKk3KGgTYmOAqpvGKKsFWNJzEGqdg5WMeNe6hiD534W2yUgUnHeB87MuNXelESg/s400/personalized-paper-dolls-party.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Even though it's a tea party, I think pink lemonade is a little more fun and girly, so I served that up decanted in these <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/50108908/" target="_blank">inexpensive bottles from IKEA</a>. I kept the menu super simple: pink lemonade, teddy grahams, iced sugar cookies, and gumballs.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyWLJ7A0NDhByy0JY4QHTWMc_VxUVXBFK90i_3_25TGjRHW0tS3J8RzW5sFyMEITwDWpKXftOBt5_j4LXBByza-yyA_9aHRL7o81SuOiAPXaNl37h2FybhcahJArDQ6jwPwYzn07m4b4o/s1600/easy-tea-party-cookies-cakes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Easy Tea Party Cookies Cakes" border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyWLJ7A0NDhByy0JY4QHTWMc_VxUVXBFK90i_3_25TGjRHW0tS3J8RzW5sFyMEITwDWpKXftOBt5_j4LXBByza-yyA_9aHRL7o81SuOiAPXaNl37h2FybhcahJArDQ6jwPwYzn07m4b4o/s400/easy-tea-party-cookies-cakes.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Aren't these tea cookies cute?! I just stacked up <a href="http://www.target.com/p/mp-cookies-10ct-pink-iced-cookies/-/A-13287810#?lnk=sc_qi_detailbutton" target="_blank">mini frosted cookies from the Target bakery</a> and poked a ribbon-topped sandwich pick through the center. I love to bake, but as full-time working girl, its nice just to take something store bought and make it fab.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCi-0P5T22qfgoTq4wPB3owQU7g30nUXH1CCzloUM-7IZJ_ABAxeh-Lp3TmL7DhVbSvKxr1HNluPhH-eJVPYfjnzby_rpYz8CXCTEoM24ITOz7BEbHcr8r35-QcDLvV4Q1U_QiMJ07j8I/s1600/kids-high-tea-party.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Kids High Tea Party" border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCi-0P5T22qfgoTq4wPB3owQU7g30nUXH1CCzloUM-7IZJ_ABAxeh-Lp3TmL7DhVbSvKxr1HNluPhH-eJVPYfjnzby_rpYz8CXCTEoM24ITOz7BEbHcr8r35-QcDLvV4Q1U_QiMJ07j8I/s400/kids-high-tea-party.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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One of the biggest hits at the tea party were these Teddy Grahams. Who would have thought?! I'll definitely be adding these to more of my kids party menus. If you haven't seen my <a href="http://bellyfeathersparty.blogspot.com/2010/10/homemade-glass-hurricane-dollar-tree.html">trick for making candy jars look fuller with less contents</a>, you have to check it out. I definitely used that in all my jars at this party, including the gumball jar below.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFe-pb_q_ohyphenhyphen4-7ZVf05o_ktp-_vEK0WIq5uacu0QTK5oo3S8j2yP46Tg97XbhhPQ0N-zDYpv5At6KiJhnyPL5QlRvshDAGbuYdyq50zA8UWN3CIyVGyiHJCGCmYfb-r4BKyv_JGf_0Sc/s1600/paper-dolls-printable-party.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Paper Dolls Printable Party" border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFe-pb_q_ohyphenhyphen4-7ZVf05o_ktp-_vEK0WIq5uacu0QTK5oo3S8j2yP46Tg97XbhhPQ0N-zDYpv5At6KiJhnyPL5QlRvshDAGbuYdyq50zA8UWN3CIyVGyiHJCGCmYfb-r4BKyv_JGf_0Sc/s400/paper-dolls-printable-party.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Paper dolls aren't just for play. They make wonderful decorations in this shadow box and peeking out of the flower arrangement.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnYiuNP3nxYg5PDvGpIuKFrBbM-KwQ8Ryf_o6fIy9Un1p-rTRCfjsUFIxmui_YhkHA_qDJdpieM9Fwch-n2X_pjFl9f9x0JLM5ai1YwmD38jfkq2Qd_s7BXdhLSBkxHTycQIuz50bNOpA/s1600/paper-dolls-party-girls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Paper Dolls Party Girls" border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnYiuNP3nxYg5PDvGpIuKFrBbM-KwQ8Ryf_o6fIy9Un1p-rTRCfjsUFIxmui_YhkHA_qDJdpieM9Fwch-n2X_pjFl9f9x0JLM5ai1YwmD38jfkq2Qd_s7BXdhLSBkxHTycQIuz50bNOpA/s400/paper-dolls-party-girls.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Love the coincidence of how close their outfits a match in this shot. You can get a better look at some of the glitter sparkle I added to the paper doll's cotton candy, too...I had so fun blinging up my paper dolls.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWJg2_nSXaXxwZuUiVJ5ACV_lpYbUZ_R0bhQT_syCRqBvDkb_qTYIoK-C5f4Bv5OQy9uLWA7S9pYqy9SfT2aw2v9DccoUHMajCBbgcixCT8IzT1f8Qxg8swF0HjlDt79kuxD-apnWEBV4/s1600/party-bubbles-favors.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Party Bubbles Favors" border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWJg2_nSXaXxwZuUiVJ5ACV_lpYbUZ_R0bhQT_syCRqBvDkb_qTYIoK-C5f4Bv5OQy9uLWA7S9pYqy9SfT2aw2v9DccoUHMajCBbgcixCT8IzT1f8Qxg8swF0HjlDt79kuxD-apnWEBV4/s400/party-bubbles-favors.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://clickphotodesigns.com/" target="_blank">Sarah Brewer</a> did such a fantastic job of capturing the personality of all the little girls at the party. Love this precious smile! Bubbles are my favorite party favor for little ones, too. You'll get lots of smiles with these at a party for sure.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgLNg_fHjFLrTebv8E-O-Nn4Rcuyd6dSVzAu0rc2xoCjsO5LdJNuBpSPc9llkWvE78iE-8GyymmXh49zXBZhKdqsBd602jrSe8HgzfNQWlY91SWcqJ69aClqCtzUel94Vf5BP1qPfqRxo/s1600/tea-party-menu-girls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Tea Party Menu for Girls" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgLNg_fHjFLrTebv8E-O-Nn4Rcuyd6dSVzAu0rc2xoCjsO5LdJNuBpSPc9llkWvE78iE-8GyymmXh49zXBZhKdqsBd602jrSe8HgzfNQWlY91SWcqJ69aClqCtzUel94Vf5BP1qPfqRxo/s640/tea-party-menu-girls.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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All of the adorable outfits at the party were provided by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BonnieBlueChildrensBoutique" target="_blank">Bonnie Blue Boutique in Meridianville, AL</a>. The two outfits above from <a href="http://www.persnicketyclothing.com/" target="_blank">Persnickety Clothing</a> are my favs...so frilly.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Gd9XwhciltwDgRmUk8PTZZfaA7QnMtuuIg4itT4nM6Ytpj59GdWQtgEnAK_9GhHSkkVV-zTHANXeG88ixJt9jTd4XsMi0sBcq8tW3NerbYm42FeduKsXDSJUrj3n16W2znQCx2QoUJM/s1600/customizable-paper-dolls-party.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Customizable Paper Dolls Party" border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Gd9XwhciltwDgRmUk8PTZZfaA7QnMtuuIg4itT4nM6Ytpj59GdWQtgEnAK_9GhHSkkVV-zTHANXeG88ixJt9jTd4XsMi0sBcq8tW3NerbYm42FeduKsXDSJUrj3n16W2znQCx2QoUJM/s400/customizable-paper-dolls-party.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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All of the little girls wanted to take the lid off of the tea pot to see what was inside. If you don't serve tea out of your tea pot, I highly recommend hiding some little surprises for the curious ones at your event.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXaZOU9USwlmH8AnvQD2G_iZ55ekY44Ik56bjRrwXJoZSd00dh0voguCC8sd1tfMKFQKVY7mlpj81wbPLE1kr_e_NIHFQ2rm4zqd360fsnkvjxE8AdPd_T_i3ficAIp_TluWjiFwsyY-w/s1600/mini-bubbles-party-favors.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Mini Bubbles Party Favors" border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXaZOU9USwlmH8AnvQD2G_iZ55ekY44Ik56bjRrwXJoZSd00dh0voguCC8sd1tfMKFQKVY7mlpj81wbPLE1kr_e_NIHFQ2rm4zqd360fsnkvjxE8AdPd_T_i3ficAIp_TluWjiFwsyY-w/s400/mini-bubbles-party-favors.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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As I mentioned, mini bubbles are one of my favorite party favors for children's parties, and I love to "serve" them up on cake pedestals. It's a great way to give them a more prominence on your table and add height to your display.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNUcrYzKkU3ZaP_EGRJ9COhKwdhIdjWIEPudEtqCwOg6xg6EUminqgXYez_2uwsczNh8iRYaQJ9XEc4jBC0v-fDX7HHKnWmZOdvtuHrWcLlgORUtiAnqRM8A5B6EhqFf4-BZ8-ckMZlBM/s1600/pretty-paper-dolls-party.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Pretty paper Dolls Party" border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNUcrYzKkU3ZaP_EGRJ9COhKwdhIdjWIEPudEtqCwOg6xg6EUminqgXYez_2uwsczNh8iRYaQJ9XEc4jBC0v-fDX7HHKnWmZOdvtuHrWcLlgORUtiAnqRM8A5B6EhqFf4-BZ8-ckMZlBM/s400/pretty-paper-dolls-party.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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This is my other favorite Persnickety Clothing outfit picked by Bonnie Blue Boutique....so precious!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcpAfhbzgxzZPufC8HA_yjNOLNOeLEfnFpsHyPIC4u1Hyb1j-MTNjcEH5caAu9NY-rKR04lBwYeR9KENh9xnAiZh8_1t6jJLhPwJO6fF465cPi8wzxNEVXTtZvFe4YZyegeIvdF20ZbuM/s1600/tea-pot-party.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Tea Pot Party" border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcpAfhbzgxzZPufC8HA_yjNOLNOeLEfnFpsHyPIC4u1Hyb1j-MTNjcEH5caAu9NY-rKR04lBwYeR9KENh9xnAiZh8_1t6jJLhPwJO6fF465cPi8wzxNEVXTtZvFe4YZyegeIvdF20ZbuM/s400/tea-pot-party.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I think details make a party. Even my little tea bags got a custom heart-shaped tea party tag. I also love the pop of color the blue gumballs provide in all the shots. <a href="http://www.partycity.com/search.do?query=gumballs" target="_blank">Party City</a> has a great selection of large and small gumballs by color, so it was easy to find the perfect shade of blue to match the paper doll tea party's decor.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkU5agd6xWF-uxaM0uKUs-oZ8cdbjC6I_nsdJsaRvF3ZN-VlF0qCJT4UiTnADckx3XC68kpjY3Sl4AMM935CoFoQGbw3E_TgdZ5KmUuw0HNqhlvxmFLhlhYMAibix1H5EJWMwUcMTAct0/s1600/paper-dolls-sweets-table.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Paper Dolls Sweets Table" border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkU5agd6xWF-uxaM0uKUs-oZ8cdbjC6I_nsdJsaRvF3ZN-VlF0qCJT4UiTnADckx3XC68kpjY3Sl4AMM935CoFoQGbw3E_TgdZ5KmUuw0HNqhlvxmFLhlhYMAibix1H5EJWMwUcMTAct0/s400/paper-dolls-sweets-table.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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If you'd like to see even more inspiration photos from this Paper Dolls Tea Party, check out the online version of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=342274385828448&set=a.342270735828813.90547.107444119311477&type=3&theater" target="_blank">Madison Living magazine on Facebook</a>. I'm so thrilled that the party made the cover!<br />
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=342274385828448&set=a.342270735828813.90547.107444119311477&type=3&theater" target="_blank"><img alt="Madison Living Tea Party" border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirGs5XnTeob8_QfJgmcXG-ZwTLTdlxhyEjAmpNtaCyfpL69V8_RTLGjgI1Wiox7bI1EUn6X7zT-yUrqtrM2nUIw14tqrbJAHwERzF1lbFqHQtquzqAmgJyQAJ6tAkgDOgn8h4Fk0dUagA/s400/madison-living-tea-party.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>Sources & Credits</b><br />
Photography: <a href="http://clickphotodesigns.com/" target="_blank">Click Photo Designs by Sarah Brewer</a><br />
Wardrobe: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BonnieBlueChildrensBoutique" target="_blank">Bonnie Blue Boutique</a> featuring <a href="http://www.persnicketyclothing.com/" target="_blank">Persnickety Clothing</a><br />
Printable Paper Dolls: <a href="http://www.minimepaperdolls.com/" target="_blank">Mini Me Paper Dolls</a><br />
Publication: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=342274385828448&set=a.342270735828813.90547.107444119311477&type=3&theater" target="_blank">Madison Living Magazine</a> <br />
Cookies: <a href="http://www.target.com/p/mp-cookies-10ct-pink-iced-cookies/-/A-13287810#?lnk=sc_qi_detailbutton" target="_blank">Target</a><br />
Candy: <a href="http://www.partycity.com/search.do?query=gumballs" target="_blank">Party City</a><br />
Serving Pieces: Salvation Army Thrift Store, <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/50108908/" target="_blank">IKEA</a>, <a href="http://www.homegoods.com/" target="_blank">Home Goods </a><br />
Styling and Design: <a href="http://bellyfeathers.com/">Belly Feathers</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><p></p>
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<img border="0" height="105" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DwCtmQbp0MI/THhX4Cq0W-I/AAAAAAAADm4/pL3yRhefU3o/s400/belly-feathers-party-rss-feed.jpg" width="400" //></div>
<p align=center>See my products & services at <a href=http://www.BellyFeathers.com>BellyFeathers.com.</a></p>
<p align=center><a href=http://www.facebook.com/BellyFeathers>Join the Belly Feathers community on Facebook.</a></p></div>Betsy Pruitt of Belly Feathershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12583143550706244500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4403212839025640928.post-73884866003682412592012-05-25T06:27:00.001-05:002012-07-03T17:00:47.126-05:00The Best Freezer-to-Table No Bake Dessert for Summer Delizza Cream Puffs & Mini EclairsMemorial Day starts the summer cookout season. From here until the fall, most of our weekends will be spent around the grill with good food and great friends. This time of year, it's especially nice to have some extra yummy treats stashed away for spontaneous gatherings and last-minute barbeques. That's why <b>I absolutely love Delizza Desserts</b>. I can keep a couple boxes of their cream puffs and mini eclairs in the freezer, and just pop them out 30 minutes before I need them...so easy and so super yummy. They really are <b>the Best Summer No-Bake Dessert!</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo2UAOhFYsSitWxrv9WhohrPMqGyswBsLqiG94z9XhZ0BETdFptPTM4fvTtwUn-dkBUqUu7q3IfWHVf84_OuTTvbUsSBelB8B0MaxdmB7wtonHisxFxhWTkAoZW5D76tkbJqQVtuxAxWY/s1600/summer-printables-holiday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Summer Printables for Memorial Day, 4th of July, and Labor Day" border="0" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo2UAOhFYsSitWxrv9WhohrPMqGyswBsLqiG94z9XhZ0BETdFptPTM4fvTtwUn-dkBUqUu7q3IfWHVf84_OuTTvbUsSBelB8B0MaxdmB7wtonHisxFxhWTkAoZW5D76tkbJqQVtuxAxWY/s400/summer-printables-holiday.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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In the summer, I also love to keep a stack of bandanas around for fun napkins. They really brighten up the table at a cook out and give it a little extra panache. The cloth bandanas are super casual and little fancy at the same time...kind of like <b>Delizza Desserts - easy and elegant</b>. That's why it seemed perfect to decorate my Delizza Desserts boxes with a bandanas, so they're always barbeque ready whenever I need them. Of course, I couldn't stop there, I had to design some <a href="http://bit.ly/summer-holiday-printables" target="_blank"><b>cute printables for the extra special summer cookout holidays - Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day.</b></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg21KoJDRRcs1zNZ7BN0AyICVVrnMZ41nXFJ4KaTWitI1vST2Y6t8givm6DHHBm66NhlkUzYUp7pQXDlezGU9A5TmAGydMejNgjf7NPhtpKdED2m982K_rY_2khol4CfWz6oVrWcL3OuOY/s1600/no-bake-dessert-for-summer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="No Bake Dessert for Summer" border="0" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg21KoJDRRcs1zNZ7BN0AyICVVrnMZ41nXFJ4KaTWitI1vST2Y6t8givm6DHHBm66NhlkUzYUp7pQXDlezGU9A5TmAGydMejNgjf7NPhtpKdED2m982K_rY_2khol4CfWz6oVrWcL3OuOY/s400/no-bake-dessert-for-summer.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>Freezer-to-Table No Bake Dessert for Summer </b><br />
<i>Supplies: </i><br />
<ul>
<li>Delizza Desserts Cream Puffs or Mini Eclairs, two boxes for a bountiful display </li>
<li>One bandana</li>
<li>Elastic, 2 feet</li>
<li>Safety pin </li>
</ul>
Create a 2-3 inch overlapping fold in the center of your your bandana.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPu5akq6nyd1nhry8RfH-3K1iWCznGSeklKHUc8HC5sxhsEyXSD0RurBQ8AnTATEWSmNDWGjpNA24yFkF7tGw_2BnzXUtLutzTvvX_OEi8_0aIWvJ4uwbDBSwAqOlCFuH7idQ4DGpLJYE/s1600/quick-and-easy-desserts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Quick and Easy Desserts for Summer" border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPu5akq6nyd1nhry8RfH-3K1iWCznGSeklKHUc8HC5sxhsEyXSD0RurBQ8AnTATEWSmNDWGjpNA24yFkF7tGw_2BnzXUtLutzTvvX_OEi8_0aIWvJ4uwbDBSwAqOlCFuH7idQ4DGpLJYE/s320/quick-and-easy-desserts.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Turn and create another 2-3 inch overlapping fold in the center of your bandana on the opposite side to create a smaller square.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihyphenhyphenl5vDWNRO40YQcXr0-D6ZptiQgW7HCGJAO6y2xa1Flt3PFEDtWFbvBdhfRkDmzvkiZZu54hN4ugndE4ZpF6x4hMMu9Rp4sdwfMkWF7XKv8AK-V0H-gWi5rBHEJf9q07SS-c0do2FTDo/s1600/barbeque-desserts-recipes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Barbeque Desserts Recipes" border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihyphenhyphenl5vDWNRO40YQcXr0-D6ZptiQgW7HCGJAO6y2xa1Flt3PFEDtWFbvBdhfRkDmzvkiZZu54hN4ugndE4ZpF6x4hMMu9Rp4sdwfMkWF7XKv8AK-V0H-gWi5rBHEJf9q07SS-c0do2FTDo/s320/barbeque-desserts-recipes.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Place your box of Delizza Desserts in the center of the folded bandana, so that the flat sides of the box are centered on the points of the bandana.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWKAiaI6CREGoYKn6hTHpLMQ2wcBE5DDVteAjPEv6dw125nuA1-QZAfsGJY06GpQ2ZGz447WBqwG0MZYcyy_CThGsZrBWl6WbDeuZ5UfiV8dEN-WrO7oNE2_ABjAc7YOlrELh205TqMGc/s1600/summer-dessert-recipes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Summer Dessert Recipes" border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWKAiaI6CREGoYKn6hTHpLMQ2wcBE5DDVteAjPEv6dw125nuA1-QZAfsGJY06GpQ2ZGz447WBqwG0MZYcyy_CThGsZrBWl6WbDeuZ5UfiV8dEN-WrO7oNE2_ABjAc7YOlrELh205TqMGc/s320/summer-dessert-recipes.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Tightly wrap your length of elastic around the top center of the box, creating an inch of overlap. Secure elastic with a safety pin. Make sure the elastic band is tight around the box and remove. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT8OEGYe36BMjLkIUtJ75r-_AXhOa0xamFSKVV9_ONzW89UJSl9vBqSXhRffWXmTHWCblvfRc86T80TDNzl-b_raZEgrZM1CBMNVN6nwivK3jWF-zk6pJ2KHmiqoVNUHZDMAtP1ii1R1A/s1600/no-bake-dessert-recipes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="No Bake Dessert Recipes" border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT8OEGYe36BMjLkIUtJ75r-_AXhOa0xamFSKVV9_ONzW89UJSl9vBqSXhRffWXmTHWCblvfRc86T80TDNzl-b_raZEgrZM1CBMNVN6nwivK3jWF-zk6pJ2KHmiqoVNUHZDMAtP1ii1R1A/s320/no-bake-dessert-recipes.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Gather the points of the bandana to the center of the Delizza Desserts box lid.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Fv1elG5QAWsW3pyoq0TqsBas_o5HssEhSjIMIol0Lc87ZmDYJZOvGv3zItLjeYkST4WRyDBfveiyYXy30itOlOar2H_c02zghylEKz1RIazHsN2jYtBUOmZg4u61xkyWlFfJkIWtDVs/s1600/dessert-for-a-picnic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Dessert for a Picnic" border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Fv1elG5QAWsW3pyoq0TqsBas_o5HssEhSjIMIol0Lc87ZmDYJZOvGv3zItLjeYkST4WRyDBfveiyYXy30itOlOar2H_c02zghylEKz1RIazHsN2jYtBUOmZg4u61xkyWlFfJkIWtDVs/s320/dessert-for-a-picnic.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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While carefully holding in place, lift the box up and place on top of your elastic band. The safety pin should be centered on one of the sides of the box.<br />
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Slowly slide the elastic band up around all four sides of the box to hold the bandana in place. <i>(This is how I store my box in the freezer until I need it.)</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3xzTutUFquD-4NutyVjBZm0pCXwKEGQrX0FG7lzn7cPhOjQ6mtPUXjKhd0HsWb8oQ47Cp8-u3PhzSNI9VcIpUN5VmdVimOzMdqDB4AnVPhLQuhZc_StNofm-xCkLmdH8-zSCVYGjPQbc/s1600/desserts-for-picnic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Desserts for Picnic" border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3xzTutUFquD-4NutyVjBZm0pCXwKEGQrX0FG7lzn7cPhOjQ6mtPUXjKhd0HsWb8oQ47Cp8-u3PhzSNI9VcIpUN5VmdVimOzMdqDB4AnVPhLQuhZc_StNofm-xCkLmdH8-zSCVYGjPQbc/s320/desserts-for-picnic.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Fold the sides of the bandana down to completely cover the elastic band. <i><b>Pop the lid off and enjoy! </b></i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuFc_cWf8MPA34rsASrhbV5fQvyANd8g0Li67F7Fg6TqxRbOgfqgftmH0Uz6-09KiVUpHuAoIQECHkFXZTbmq_sakkDylhXM_zMwMusonmvHO5M0MI8MW3cDzEfYxLSAVfkIol12IoUuI/s1600/memorial-day-desserts-printables.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Memorial Day Desserts Printables" border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuFc_cWf8MPA34rsASrhbV5fQvyANd8g0Li67F7Fg6TqxRbOgfqgftmH0Uz6-09KiVUpHuAoIQECHkFXZTbmq_sakkDylhXM_zMwMusonmvHO5M0MI8MW3cDzEfYxLSAVfkIol12IoUuI/s320/memorial-day-desserts-printables.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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For a really full box, I like to add the contents of a second Delizza Desserts box. It's fun to mix in two different types like the cream puffs and mini eclairs for extra variety like I did in my photos. Plus, that gives a little something for everyone.<br />
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<i><b>Isn't this so super cute?!</b></i> For the the big summer holidays like Memorial Day, 4th of July, and Labor Day, you can use these <a href="http://bit.ly/summer-holiday-printables" target="_blank"><b>summer printables</b></a> to create a fun sign to pop into the box.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQJDXHSm1rVJ1ZqhwMKxNaaQ7AP-TSYJJyGobbqwMxU6r-VtyLcwCLFLqpiF436c7lPDF7KDhIt1t2aHsVOwGlvr_EVZjkBoTm-LtduEarkmCc2jXIxlVHSyQDbDW6kX70Dfv6DxoXgLI/s1600/memorial-day-printables.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Memorial Day Printables" border="0" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQJDXHSm1rVJ1ZqhwMKxNaaQ7AP-TSYJJyGobbqwMxU6r-VtyLcwCLFLqpiF436c7lPDF7KDhIt1t2aHsVOwGlvr_EVZjkBoTm-LtduEarkmCc2jXIxlVHSyQDbDW6kX70Dfv6DxoXgLI/s400/memorial-day-printables.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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A couple months ago when Delizza Desserts approached me about trying their products and blogging about them. I was super excited because I love serving their cream puffs at baby showers and parties all winter long. They're a really easy way to expand a menu and add an elegant touch. I had never even thought about how perfect they'd be for summer parties, though. They're cool and refreshing (at least they are if you can't wait for them to completely thaw like me...so yummy!), and they keep you from having to cook in a hot kitchen.<br />
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I'm really excited to have Delizza Desserts as a new no-bake dessert in my entertaining arsenal for the summer, and I hope you will, too. In fact, I've got <b>two chances for you to win a Delizza Dessert item of your choice.</b><br />
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<b>How to Enter to Win:</b><br />
<ol>
<li>Head over to <a href="http://www.delizza.us/" target="_blank">Delizza's website at www.delizza.us</a>, and check out all their yummy flavors. </li>
<li>Then stop by <a href="http://facebook.com/BellyFeathers" target="_blank">my Facebook page</a>, and post a comment to tell me which Delizza Dessert is your favorite or the one you plan to try if you win. Leave your comment on my Facebook page by midnight central on June 7th.</li>
</ol>
I'll draw two winners on June 8th to receive a coupon by mail redeemable for a free Delizza Dessert. If you win, I'll message you to get your mailing address. <i><b>Good luck and happy Memorial Day weekend!</b></i><br />
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<img border="0" height="105" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DwCtmQbp0MI/THhX4Cq0W-I/AAAAAAAADm4/pL3yRhefU3o/s400/belly-feathers-party-rss-feed.jpg" width="400" //></div>
<p align=center>See my products & services at <a href=http://www.BellyFeathers.com>BellyFeathers.com.</a></p>
<p align=center><a href=http://www.facebook.com/BellyFeathers>Join the Belly Feathers community on Facebook.</a></p></div>Betsy Pruitt of Belly Feathershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12583143550706244500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4403212839025640928.post-413308074604918672012-04-17T06:30:00.000-05:002012-04-17T07:25:13.017-05:00Cinco de Mayo Recipe: Easy Chicken VerdeI can't believe it's almost Cinco de Mayo again! One of the biggest hits at our <b><a href="http://bellyfeathersparty.blogspot.com/2011/05/celebrating-cinco-de-mayo-margarita.html">Cinco de Mayo Margarita Party</a></b> last year was my husband Roger's <b>Easy Chicken Verde</b>. In fact, <i><b>almost everyone at the party requested the recipe.</b></i> It's so good that I keep trying to convince Roger to cook it at least once a week. Instead, he decided to teach me how to make it this week, so I could share it with you.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5-seW7WcCo-kb_gJ07Ds0sgtuUmHyWVwMXg6YADHzZ-lgMWlGyAAHXcshTKzjrHgse0jMVqtb_1JKiYuJ4Ot06Cp4gRizJNWjxmw1h2j9kwYn9byTX_4F2YSYOo_qG7UTClRIk5uCZDs/s1600/mexican-chicken-recipes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Mexican Chicken Recipes" border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5-seW7WcCo-kb_gJ07Ds0sgtuUmHyWVwMXg6YADHzZ-lgMWlGyAAHXcshTKzjrHgse0jMVqtb_1JKiYuJ4Ot06Cp4gRizJNWjxmw1h2j9kwYn9byTX_4F2YSYOo_qG7UTClRIk5uCZDs/s400/mexican-chicken-recipes.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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This recipe is so perfect for a fiesta or a week night meal. To be honest, I really don't enjoy cooking meals or anything with meat in particular, but this really was pretty easy and fast. I could definitely make this for company.<br />
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<h2>
Easy Chicken Verde Recipe</h2>
2 tablespoons olive oil<br />
salt<br />
4 chicken breasts or thighs, boneless (1-1.5 lbs)<br />
1 cup onion, diced<br />
1 16 oz jar Frontera Tomatillo Salsa (available at Target)<br />
¼ cup cilantro, chopped<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwL3DKvjERE6d8g5jzGkoz7gGdGSHUIDSUr3Y7chv48WxDPf_rB3eejvbQSQzbUyi25d-V_mViEedJY2qUO9hEe0Ktqt6HwXOuvGed3f-I6PoGLVrUOfItq4dfNX5hvhyphenhyphenEWaUEmxxGVmA/s1600/easy-chicken-verde-recipe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Easy Chicken Verde Recipe" border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwL3DKvjERE6d8g5jzGkoz7gGdGSHUIDSUr3Y7chv48WxDPf_rB3eejvbQSQzbUyi25d-V_mViEedJY2qUO9hEe0Ktqt6HwXOuvGed3f-I6PoGLVrUOfItq4dfNX5hvhyphenhyphenEWaUEmxxGVmA/s320/easy-chicken-verde-recipe.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Heat oil in a large skillet on medium-high heat. Salt both sides of chicken breasts and place in pan. Brown on both sides for about two minutes. Remove chicken from skillet.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_mdAr9ntxv5DWQnjPZhTJGaflnJfgX8TpK711WwWRmFI9XceOj_u5JtkH8qdJEZDwxY9Pg050Ibo6M_wtWR9X9_VX0cSLeN-yma__gllaqBTr8LCUgC399oH3AUD2p2c54rTCfO7YVTk/s1600/chicken-verde-brown-breasts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Chicken Verde Brown Chicken Breasts" border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_mdAr9ntxv5DWQnjPZhTJGaflnJfgX8TpK711WwWRmFI9XceOj_u5JtkH8qdJEZDwxY9Pg050Ibo6M_wtWR9X9_VX0cSLeN-yma__gllaqBTr8LCUgC399oH3AUD2p2c54rTCfO7YVTk/s320/chicken-verde-brown-breasts.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Brown onion in the skillet. Pour tomatillo salsa on top and stir until the sauce thickens a little. Place chicken back in the skillet, cover, and simmer on medium heat until chicken is cooked thoroughly, approximately 8 minutes. <i>By the way, if you want to take pity on my old coil stove, please <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/BellyFeathers?page=1&section_id=&order=" target="_blank">visit my online store</a> and make a purchase to support the "Betsy Needs a New Stove" Fund.</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjiiIBgsflcl23l1p4f8IAvXVifkvL09DGyrm4O_rwnaHQykWXRCuJH38UTaCsRGxAqdw-aeKyNvVeNLlwHZbLZAl8Gd8l8lN63cFHBdbX5Xa5NfWG4k68hdCzHukA5ijPl0urMhgKA8E/s1600/cinco-de-mayo-recipes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Cinco de Mayo Recipes" border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjiiIBgsflcl23l1p4f8IAvXVifkvL09DGyrm4O_rwnaHQykWXRCuJH38UTaCsRGxAqdw-aeKyNvVeNLlwHZbLZAl8Gd8l8lN63cFHBdbX5Xa5NfWG4k68hdCzHukA5ijPl0urMhgKA8E/s320/cinco-de-mayo-recipes.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Shred chicken. Garnish with cilantro before serving. Serve with tortillas and sour cream, if desired.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf2QmTGOVoSVHcI8mrI-libsB53fgDAKafVvbfVRjpmnV33oOKViXHqMsxLbXBu9YNeFXNZjf-u6qa-JwMs5tztXrL2uLqFXsRqRtV8QDZXtMS3EKb3_a8fKmNvw3n1J_4U16M3Tk4jNM/s1600/easy-cinco-de-mayo-recipes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Easy Cinco de Mayo Recipes" border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf2QmTGOVoSVHcI8mrI-libsB53fgDAKafVvbfVRjpmnV33oOKViXHqMsxLbXBu9YNeFXNZjf-u6qa-JwMs5tztXrL2uLqFXsRqRtV8QDZXtMS3EKb3_a8fKmNvw3n1J_4U16M3Tk4jNM/s400/easy-cinco-de-mayo-recipes.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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When we made this Chicken Verde hours ahead for our party, we placed everything in a casserole dish covered with foil, so we could keep it warm in the oven until it was time to serve. According to my husband's Mexican Cooking Bible, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/039306154X/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=belfeahanpari-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=039306154" target="_blank">Rick Bayless's Mexican Everyday</a>, thighs will stay juicer in the oven like this, but we always use chicken breasts. I think the sauce keeps them moist enough.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/89738898" target="_blank">Download the Easy Chicken Verde 3x5 Recipe Card</a></i></div>
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<a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/89738898" target="_blank"><img alt="Recipe Card Easy Chicken Verde" border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0jwUlVR2SI21RWUAp4SJUcC1hZV2WSUMYY-GjFVx3-1X_kESWesMFGFOm-Bcb-du5EBtdr6hVpVAKmyrzkksScqm4zTtgPDac_rsBIaFv1o-7Xsq9nzy7GIbbB10HaEqsqrrXqT4IQyM/s320/recipe-card-easy-chicken-verde.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Here are a few shots of the Chicken Verde at our <a href="http://bellyfeathersparty.blogspot.com/2011/05/celebrating-cinco-de-mayo-margarita.html">Cinco de Mayo Margarita Party</a>. All of the lovely photos below are by <b><a href="http://www.clickphotodesigns.com/" target="_blank">Click Photo Designs by Sarah Brewer</a></b>, who I absolutely love working with on special events.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B1IMWsG4A8g/Tbz2uNUtF2I/AAAAAAAAEbw/EZu_i0MQI_s/s1600/cinco-de-mayo-foods.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Cinco de Mayo Foods" border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B1IMWsG4A8g/Tbz2uNUtF2I/AAAAAAAAEbw/EZu_i0MQI_s/s400/cinco-de-mayo-foods.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bddj82BvT54/Tbz4WQQoUpI/AAAAAAAAEb8/JFVgQM7jHMU/s400/food-on-cinco-de-mayo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Food on Cinco de Mayo" border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bddj82BvT54/Tbz4WQQoUpI/AAAAAAAAEb8/JFVgQM7jHMU/s400/food-on-cinco-de-mayo.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EYcRjqnt-Ek/Tbz4gj-yLlI/AAAAAAAAEcA/f3dXqcLcZLk/s400/food-cinco-de-mayo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Food Cinco de Mayo" border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EYcRjqnt-Ek/Tbz4gj-yLlI/AAAAAAAAEcA/f3dXqcLcZLk/s400/food-cinco-de-mayo.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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See more <a href="http://bellyfeathersparty.blogspot.com/2011/05/celebrating-cinco-de-mayo-margarita.html">photos and details from this Cinco de Mayo Margarita Party</a>.</div>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://bellyfeathersparty.blogspot.com/2011/05/cinco-de-mayo-margarita-recipe.html">Cinco de Mayo Margarita Recipe (our own house mix)</a></li>
<li><a href="http://bellyfeathersparty.blogspot.com/2011/05/easy-fried-ice-cream-recipe.html">Easy Fried Ice Cream Recipe</a></li>
<li><a href="http://bellyfeathersparty.blogspot.com/2011/05/diy-mexican-paper-flags-easy-papel.html">DIY Mexican Paper Flags: Easy Papel Picado Alternative</a></li>
</ul><div class="blogger-post-footer"><p></p>
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<img border="0" height="105" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DwCtmQbp0MI/THhX4Cq0W-I/AAAAAAAADm4/pL3yRhefU3o/s400/belly-feathers-party-rss-feed.jpg" width="400" //></div>
<p align=center>See my products & services at <a href=http://www.BellyFeathers.com>BellyFeathers.com.</a></p>
<p align=center><a href=http://www.facebook.com/BellyFeathers>Join the Belly Feathers community on Facebook.</a></p></div>Betsy Pruitt of Belly Feathershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12583143550706244500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4403212839025640928.post-31547041659199501832012-03-26T07:00:00.000-05:002012-03-26T07:00:10.310-05:00Easy Kite Brownies on a StickIt doesn't get any easier than these super cute <b>Kite Brownies on a Stick</b> for spring...especially since Little Debbie does most the work! These would be absolutely <b>perfect for a school kite day!</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8RFWthd3_Y5L4CV8kUJJeNQFwC-7cxqfYo2yGg2Nib-SfTmlEhPnxtDqXH3Pn95gu5qosSfNRsP_2TYBiYnbiv9unBHVRv6K11EaiZYpZTRADYi-2dIPFyl4YDlWXJpETUe0MCZXYvAg/s1600/kite-brownies-stick.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Kite Brownies on a Stick" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8RFWthd3_Y5L4CV8kUJJeNQFwC-7cxqfYo2yGg2Nib-SfTmlEhPnxtDqXH3Pn95gu5qosSfNRsP_2TYBiYnbiv9unBHVRv6K11EaiZYpZTRADYi-2dIPFyl4YDlWXJpETUe0MCZXYvAg/s400/kite-brownies-stick.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Taking a cue from my friend <a href="http://buckets-of-grace.blogspot.com/2012/02/i-love-you-bushel-and-peck-valentines.html" target="_blank">Melissa at Buckets of Grace</a>, who made some adorable skewered Little Debbie hearts for Valentine's Day, I was instantly inspired when I saw these Little Debbie Kite Brownies at my grocery store. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh18W4uaQ05Ivybf9VG13XY7mjEgv48FRVeQTrzMYFLGIi1ZzinwxADsLnrZZsBrx5cOLySCuze6Nvd6Dx-XCURNZmaJ8W-_07FR0u9w_Tq566LnQ62rItB6kFWS0H1a8PVbvhBVzAqziE/s1600/kite-brownie-supplies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Kite Brownies for School Kite Day" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh18W4uaQ05Ivybf9VG13XY7mjEgv48FRVeQTrzMYFLGIi1ZzinwxADsLnrZZsBrx5cOLySCuze6Nvd6Dx-XCURNZmaJ8W-_07FR0u9w_Tq566LnQ62rItB6kFWS0H1a8PVbvhBVzAqziE/s400/kite-brownie-supplies.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<i></i><br />
<i>To make this display, I used:</i><br />
<ul>
<li>Little Debbie Kite Brownies </li>
<li>A jar filled with glass beads </li>
<li>Bamboo skewers (long and medium lengths)</li>
<li>Long lengths of organza ribbon</li>
<li>Short strips of a accent ribbon (mine were satin and grosgrain)</li>
</ul>
I recommend storing the skewers horizontally on a tray and waiting to assemble vertically right before your event. The brownies are soft, and I did have one of the brownies fall off its stick. However, it held tight for about a hour before that happened. I'm sure your brownies will be snatched up before that happens.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHGKWcox2ce0ejSNTMgc7SqtEWYEwGBG7ANJOJfb0RKcObRVjamsna4ofiv4KPin9hRriEgQdLPYVqWDax9HiNoIR8iR2d8MI-HjsQP2Z5FyvsA08vjbhkgWz1MDD4ne0hhHcEleVz0ho/s1600/little-debbie-kite-brownies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Little Debbie Kite Brownies on a Stick" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHGKWcox2ce0ejSNTMgc7SqtEWYEwGBG7ANJOJfb0RKcObRVjamsna4ofiv4KPin9hRriEgQdLPYVqWDax9HiNoIR8iR2d8MI-HjsQP2Z5FyvsA08vjbhkgWz1MDD4ne0hhHcEleVz0ho/s400/little-debbie-kite-brownies.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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If you make some Kite Brownies on a Stick, I'd love to see a photo! Leave a comment on post on my <a href="http://facebook.com/BellyFeathers" target="_blank">Facebook wall</a>.<br />
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<p align=center>See my products & services at <a href=http://www.BellyFeathers.com>BellyFeathers.com.</a></p>
<p align=center><a href=http://www.facebook.com/BellyFeathers>Join the Belly Feathers community on Facebook.</a></p></div>Belly Feathershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15786347349578314528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4403212839025640928.post-71804307862897099502012-03-12T06:30:00.000-05:002012-03-12T06:30:01.974-05:00Wish Your Friends Happy Birthday on Facebook with Shareable GreetingsI've got a fun new way to wish your friends Happy Birthday on Facebook - <b>Shareable Greetings by Belly Feathers</b>. You can now share a handmade greeting created by yours truly on your friends' timeline. Check out this video to see how fun and easy it is. <br />
<br />
<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/KL2gARmj34A" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<br /><br />
Now that you've seen how fun Shareable Greetings are, head over to <a href="http://facebook.com/BellyFeathers" target="blank">facebook.com/BellyFeathers</a> to get started and enjoy!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><p></p>
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<p align=center>See my products & services at <a href=http://www.BellyFeathers.com>BellyFeathers.com.</a></p>
<p align=center><a href=http://www.facebook.com/BellyFeathers>Join the Belly Feathers community on Facebook.</a></p></div>Belly Feathershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15786347349578314528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4403212839025640928.post-75844529713361058022012-02-19T14:18:00.001-06:002012-09-11T00:54:02.460-05:00Mardi Gras Moon Pie CakeFat Tuesday is this week, and I've got a super cute and easy <b>Mardi Gras Moon Pie Cake</b> to help you celebrate.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqvfknaM6CZqAGqcen6CjFgA1qU-30Ym9jahOt0vNYII381bXSlpUolSQKH9d5kKD26FnIhlsdhyphenhyphenPIvs85Y-KYSnBwxYHDe6vPD4JuKAS09QmqDuya7tFGL4rILx-lWyt3e1gcomak4Zk/s1600/cake-mardi-gras-moon-pie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Cake Mardi Gras Moon Pie" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqvfknaM6CZqAGqcen6CjFgA1qU-30Ym9jahOt0vNYII381bXSlpUolSQKH9d5kKD26FnIhlsdhyphenhyphenPIvs85Y-KYSnBwxYHDe6vPD4JuKAS09QmqDuya7tFGL4rILx-lWyt3e1gcomak4Zk/s400/cake-mardi-gras-moon-pie.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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You may not know this but Mardi Gras originally started in my home state Alabama (in the city of Mobile to be exact). While I've never been to a Mardi Gras parade myself, I know they throw out <a href="http://moonpie.com/49" target="blank">Moon Pies</a> out during<i> </i>the parades along with beads and other treats. So, I knew a Mardi Gras dessert focused on Moon Pies would be a perfect way to celebrate Fat Tuesday this year.<i> Plus, Moon Pies are delicious and any excuse to have one is a good day!!!</i><br />
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<i>This Mardi Gras Cake is really as simple as it looks!</i> Just stack your favorite Mini Moon Pie flavors (mine is vanilla; my husband likes banana) on a cake plate and stick in this super easy topper using my printable fleur-de-lis below.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqYZ8Se2nC2ptPnRhBg3mf3b0_lvtQjus8Qoy0STot5uYcZHUDr9HFnGVmpHJ9zyRIuyLpbn7FD7QPDwtcgxALiCy9cTpFntATzKafCpspdE_ZGXOXx9T3IRmZIRQ1_hWlmMLBpfcuh6o/s1600/easy-mardi-gras-decorations.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Easy Mardi Gras Decorations" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqYZ8Se2nC2ptPnRhBg3mf3b0_lvtQjus8Qoy0STot5uYcZHUDr9HFnGVmpHJ9zyRIuyLpbn7FD7QPDwtcgxALiCy9cTpFntATzKafCpspdE_ZGXOXx9T3IRmZIRQ1_hWlmMLBpfcuh6o/s400/easy-mardi-gras-decorations.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />
<h3>
Mardi Gras Moon Pie Cake Recipe </h3>
<i><b>Ingredients & Supplies</b></i><br />
6 8" sections of sheer organza ribbon in purple, green, and gold
<br />
two lengths of each color<br />
1 Bamboo skewer or thick toothpick<br />
1 Mardi Gras Printable Cake Topper (below)<br />
1 Pair of scissors<br />
1 Glue dot or other adhesive<br />
4 Boxes of Mini Moon Pies<br />
<br />
Stack five ribbon lengths on top of each other. Using the remaining
ribbon, tie and knot the stack of ribbons to your bamboo skewer or
toothpick, leaving enough room at the top for your fleur-de-lis.<br />
<br />
Click on the Mardi Gras Printable Cake Topper image below to view the full-sized file, save to your computer, and print. In case you want to make your cake topper double-sided, I've included the reverse of the image. For simplicity's sake, I just made mine single-sided.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgXOiG7PWGScArRLE9zPgauHcSTMfbFWaFMmcBlUXrkrizGILOkbk2fFlQjRHUnCYXk0hvA1hYfeDsCpJd8oKnZT6lTsp3rm3_RXhfDvUqyz0jf4DFCDvqzKfA9vfUiSDUqKoFsGIbcdw/s1600/ideas-mardi-gras-printable.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Ideas Mardi Gras Printable" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgXOiG7PWGScArRLE9zPgauHcSTMfbFWaFMmcBlUXrkrizGILOkbk2fFlQjRHUnCYXk0hvA1hYfeDsCpJd8oKnZT6lTsp3rm3_RXhfDvUqyz0jf4DFCDvqzKfA9vfUiSDUqKoFsGIbcdw/s400/ideas-mardi-gras-printable.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Cut and glue the fleur-de-lis to your bamboo skewer or toothpick. The knot in your ribbon should be facing the back of your fleur-de-lis.<br />
<br />
Fluff out the ribbons, so you have some sticking out in all directions like a tutu. Trim the ribbon edges at an angle.<br />
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Stack your Moon Pies on a cake plate. I used six Mini Moon Pies per layer on a medium cake plate.<br />
<br />
Stick your topper in the center, and as they say at Mardi Gras, <i>laissez les bons temps rouler</i>...or, let the good times roll!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge2du8mQTH_clHc1O0FcaNO8NHhCkPsOFSB_Hz2wE_o4OrEEt0JY24oS2Krpb8x9Cmg0_ex1yQ1AzN_S2dNrI9xYbiz3-DRheV5HNOr20b6Js45QvxBR9asQzdtAcpWpNP7BFl6r3LDE0/s1600/easy-mardi-gras-recipes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Easy Mardi Gras Recipes" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge2du8mQTH_clHc1O0FcaNO8NHhCkPsOFSB_Hz2wE_o4OrEEt0JY24oS2Krpb8x9Cmg0_ex1yQ1AzN_S2dNrI9xYbiz3-DRheV5HNOr20b6Js45QvxBR9asQzdtAcpWpNP7BFl6r3LDE0/s400/easy-mardi-gras-recipes.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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If you make a Mardi Gras Moon Pie Cake, <b>I'd love to see a photo.</b> Please share on my <a href="http://facebook.com/BellyFeathers" target="blank">Facebook wall </a>or send via <a href="http://twitter.com/BellyFeathers" target="blank">Twitter</a>!<br />
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<p align=center><a href=http://www.facebook.com/BellyFeathers>Join the Belly Feathers community on Facebook.</a></p></div>Belly Feathershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15786347349578314528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4403212839025640928.post-86032746389633713002012-02-14T07:47:00.002-06:002012-02-14T07:50:44.065-06:00Happy Valentine's Day - Heart Shaped TreeThis is a photo of a tree in my neighborhood that I pass every day. I can only imagine how surprised the tree trimmers must have been to see this surprise, and as I drive by it every day, I'm reminded that God leaves little surprises just like this to remind us of his love.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhre6kLmA2idqMDNy9OVZkNsLkgszDS5K1AmfPc1JMcMRxyBP9hIhDLVkvnSZ2NfCFV2epjESoOiGDCy8wGhsNq0Q4Xhkuu6lgrxdJytXlLRQg23SCV_edpL0gV80b_gN4K7Ph7_nurZzs/s1600/gods-love-heart-shaped-tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="252" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhre6kLmA2idqMDNy9OVZkNsLkgszDS5K1AmfPc1JMcMRxyBP9hIhDLVkvnSZ2NfCFV2epjESoOiGDCy8wGhsNq0Q4Xhkuu6lgrxdJytXlLRQg23SCV_edpL0gV80b_gN4K7Ph7_nurZzs/s400/gods-love-heart-shaped-tree.jpg" alt="God's Love Heart-shaped Tree" width="400" /></a></div>
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</div>
Happy Valentine's Day - may you have lots of reasons to smile and share love today!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><p></p>
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<p align=center>See my products & services at <a href=http://www.BellyFeathers.com>BellyFeathers.com.</a></p>
<p align=center><a href=http://www.facebook.com/BellyFeathers>Join the Belly Feathers community on Facebook.</a></p></div>Belly Feathershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15786347349578314528noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4403212839025640928.post-7754662091310007152011-11-16T19:58:00.001-06:002011-11-19T09:28:42.697-06:00Candy Acorns for ThanksgivingThese <b>Candy Acorns</b> are as yummy as they are cute! Butterscotch and toasted pecans make a delightful flavor combination...I can't even begin to describe how good these are! These acorns are sure to make the perfect decoration for your Thanksgiving treats and fall gatherings.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSBt2WO61b4fqh5s_HwPUoKxUszRqz2eOGObgIAu8flBG5wLPjtpE3Sf8HEjjTETzBl1muD-bppcKEAURUv7Rwnt3LihsEa6_ZN-5DhIJuIgVOGvEWA06XVoc4sFu_7Qwzf9w0dwWRuJg/s1600/candy-acorns-pecans.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Candy Acorns with Pecans" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSBt2WO61b4fqh5s_HwPUoKxUszRqz2eOGObgIAu8flBG5wLPjtpE3Sf8HEjjTETzBl1muD-bppcKEAURUv7Rwnt3LihsEa6_ZN-5DhIJuIgVOGvEWA06XVoc4sFu_7Qwzf9w0dwWRuJg/s400/candy-acorns-pecans.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I originally saw these cuties on the cover of <i>Sandra Lee Semi-Homemade</i> magazine. The steps outlined in the magazine made the process of creating these Candy Acorns a bit frustrating, so I streamlined the process. Now, they're super simple and joy to make.<br />
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<b>Candy Acorns Recipe</b><br />
40 pecan halves, toasted<br />
1 cup butterscotch morsels, melted<br />
½ cup finely ground pecans, toasted<br />
<br />
With a small amount of melted butterscotch, attach flat sides of 2 pecan halves to make a whole. Place on a waxed-paper-lined baking sheet in the freezer for 10 minutes to set.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFtynUE3aPHYfEoZ1pp_6a7rozagdCZvoSsE4ioki8kIReMl1QjO6pASiRSTf2mCoCDAXI6HMtM_8Kx6Cce4ynKpEDx07tYWPhRWmKRw37taxOGevvMUQHdi1f7_oTCAzjXS53Ip-y3yc/s1600/thanksgiving-butterscotch-pecans.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Thanksgiving Butterscotch Pecans" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFtynUE3aPHYfEoZ1pp_6a7rozagdCZvoSsE4ioki8kIReMl1QjO6pASiRSTf2mCoCDAXI6HMtM_8Kx6Cce4ynKpEDx07tYWPhRWmKRw37taxOGevvMUQHdi1f7_oTCAzjXS53Ip-y3yc/s320/thanksgiving-butterscotch-pecans.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Dip ⅔ lengthwise of each whole pecan into melted butterscotch and set on waxed paper. Place in the freezer for 10 minutes to set.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgT9a640CTTu1m_9BnoJ2taS1kYkmub5hEcuYvaRx1U-P3ju5FqLjmF6S5FqIkOidONTsZjcOgXHJQRy46cg5mMrpmfzYE-nOCqTJT988cUS9t5vXcrQYlNw1MfxqJYoAWOmfjfB6EaYo/s1600/butterscotch-pecan-acorns.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Butterscotch Pecans as Acorns" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgT9a640CTTu1m_9BnoJ2taS1kYkmub5hEcuYvaRx1U-P3ju5FqLjmF6S5FqIkOidONTsZjcOgXHJQRy46cg5mMrpmfzYE-nOCqTJT988cUS9t5vXcrQYlNw1MfxqJYoAWOmfjfB6EaYo/s320/butterscotch-pecan-acorns.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Dip uncoated ⅓ of pecan into melted butterscotch, and roll in finely ground pecans. You may want to use your fingers to push the ground pecans into a uniform shape for your acorn tops.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5BEojLLCd0fbCr3mRLc4LDZRGfmDPtxCz3gYHS7Ogwcei9lrSxQ59VHow2-L5jOw8yxdAW_ipffqQ7KgBmH4bdA3BTNT7Kc4pVCK_OnWGO_OMBjgoow1RCKY6j8qzJYHSFOF2rD91EsA/s1600/acorn-pecans-recipe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Acorn Pecans Recipe" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5BEojLLCd0fbCr3mRLc4LDZRGfmDPtxCz3gYHS7Ogwcei9lrSxQ59VHow2-L5jOw8yxdAW_ipffqQ7KgBmH4bdA3BTNT7Kc4pVCK_OnWGO_OMBjgoow1RCKY6j8qzJYHSFOF2rD91EsA/s320/acorn-pecans-recipe.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Set on waxed paper, and place in the freezer for 10 minutes to set. Enjoy!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimS2HiFWDUYpoT9LCmWaP4TUeWanj6kbRhkdV-q5V-9nNPN0c9vp4myl-pfxddPmXICXaLosxj_jnnSp7arY7_8sz07D7BQoA-iULFv14qrzfgSnGWUX4jatT0dme2qDpNKZGa6B4XXww/s1600/thanksgiving-candy-pecans.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Thanksgiving Candy Pecans" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimS2HiFWDUYpoT9LCmWaP4TUeWanj6kbRhkdV-q5V-9nNPN0c9vp4myl-pfxddPmXICXaLosxj_jnnSp7arY7_8sz07D7BQoA-iULFv14qrzfgSnGWUX4jatT0dme2qDpNKZGa6B4XXww/s320/thanksgiving-candy-pecans.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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These candy acorns are so easy and delicious! I can't wait to decorate my pumpkin pie with these for Thanksgiving.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><p></p>
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At our own Yard Sale this month, we put all of our years of experience to good use and <b>raked in $913</b>!! What's even more incredible about that is that we didn't have any big-ticket items. Our most expensive items were<br />
<ul>
<li>$40 - Gigantic framed art piece</li>
<li>$15 - Toro weedeater</li>
<li>$10 - Toro lawn blower</li>
<li>$5 - Headboard/footboard for full-size bed</li>
<li>$5 - Collector Barbies, in boxes but obviously opened and LOVED!</li>
<li>$1 - 0.50 each for almost everything else </li>
</ul>
<i>I know you can do just as good or better taking our collective wisdom and running with it. </i><br />
<h4>
Here are our tips for for a successful yard sale!</h4>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0oUdlw8mhtDX8HFQZarxOGMMk1fdxSFOaNqMPEwrBxdrzo-lHXPRnwnULrQm1l0sPiubvWZJx9xOOghqjQIcBwiBZkiPuBTrzlBXyrUZeQyaSgEHERrhbrwcq8q5q4hoBbCQNhUR45YQ/s1600/garage-sale-sign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Garage Sale Sign" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0oUdlw8mhtDX8HFQZarxOGMMk1fdxSFOaNqMPEwrBxdrzo-lHXPRnwnULrQm1l0sPiubvWZJx9xOOghqjQIcBwiBZkiPuBTrzlBXyrUZeQyaSgEHERrhbrwcq8q5q4hoBbCQNhUR45YQ/s320/garage-sale-sign.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<ul>
<li><b>Decide on your #1 Yard Sale goal</b><br />
In yard sale speak, this is either to 1) get rid of unwanted things or 2) make money. Ideally, you want to do both, but knowing what your top priority is ahead of time will help you set a strategy for all of your yard sale preparations, stay focused at the sale, and have <i>no regrets once its over</i>. If your #1 goal is to get the top price for each of your items, you won't feel bad turning away low-ball offers in the morning. However, if you ultimately want everything gone, let that stack of books go for $2. That's better than having to box them back up at the end of the day...why risk not finding another buyer to take them off your lawn? <br />
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Our goal was ultimately to get rid of clutter and not bring anything (well, almost anything) back inside our house, while having a little fun and making some cash in the process. That's why when we later noticed that a small stereo had been stolen from our sale, our goal kept us from getting upset because we ultimately wanted to get rid of it...besides if someone is so desperate that they need to steal from a yard sale, more power to them! <i>Having a sense of humor is good to have, too!</i><br />
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</b></li>
<li><b>Have way more than you expect to sell</b><br />
If you want people to pull over at your sale, you need a lot of stuff to make it worth their while...more than you think you'll sell. Looking picked over will not be to your advantage, especially late in the day. Keeping your #1 goal in mind, scour you house with a rutheless eye for stuff to help you reach your target, especially in the last week or two before your sale. I like to always keep a bag stashed in cabinets or a box hidden under cloth-covered tables around my house for holding yard sale items throughout the year. When these stashes become unmanageable, <i><b>it's Yard Sale time!</b></i> Then a few weeks before the sale, my husband and I clean out closets, cabinets, and drawers throughout the house. When you start to feel wishy-washy about what should stay or go, break out your #1 priority for the sale, and ask yourself how that item fits with the goal. That will help you decided whether it goes in the yard sale pile or not. If you still don't have enough stuff for a yard sale, ask a few friends to join in and yard sale with you.<br />
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</b></li>
<li><b>One man's trash is another man's treasure - So true!</b><br />
You may think to yourself, "This will never sell," or "I'd be embarrassed to put this out...who would want it?" Don't doubt yourself, and just put it out anyway. Some items that surprisingly have sold well at my yard sales are Martha Stewart Living magazines, half used body sprays and lotions, technical books on dated subjects/concepts, and dingy white t-shirts and dress shirts with ring around the collar. I always feel the later is a reflection on my poor laundry skills...totally embarrassing to me. <i>Somebody, let me in on that ancient Chinese secret!</i> However, at our sale, I was glad I put them out anyway because almost all of them sold...crazy! Those shirts alone probably made us at least $20 richer.<br />
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</li>
<li><b>Look cute, festive, and tidy</b><br />
You can really differentiate yourself from other sales here and make it impossible for people to drive by without stopping. Doing this will help you attract a better clientelle, too...people who don't normally yard sale will be willing to stop, and often, they have more cash to spend. Create a bright, coordinated atmosphere by covering your mis-matched folding tables with dollar-store table cloths. I'm a cheapsake, so I trimmed some of the plastic table cloths in half to cover smaller tables. This alone goes a long way. You can do even more by making a party-style Yard Sale banner to hang (<b><a href="http://bit.ly/Ybb48O" onclick="javascript: pageTracker._trackPageview(‘/downloads/tracking-downloads’); " target="blank">download my free Yard Sale Printables for a template</a></b>) or by tying a few balloons from Dollar Tree to your mailbox. When you get your items ready to put out, wipe off any dust or cobwebs...I recommend doing this a week or so before on your bigger items, especially ones that have been in the attic or garage. I've been known to ignore some interesting items at Yard Sales solely because they were too yucky to put in my car, so I definitely didn't want any deterrents like this at my yard sale. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi93guXk8YOi6DjptK6vgMwyNvE1mGYzuS-_Y_bkwriLMZXEjRzqT5ZOzgR3FRse50hQ1ZtnmFMxj8n8oAgOh11xeh14LUfJdzAbdr_hdPDwzuB6ehMIH8MtorCooZipnRZi9oS2ui_JEE/s1600/yard-sale-how-to.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Yard Sale How To Instructions" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi93guXk8YOi6DjptK6vgMwyNvE1mGYzuS-_Y_bkwriLMZXEjRzqT5ZOzgR3FRse50hQ1ZtnmFMxj8n8oAgOh11xeh14LUfJdzAbdr_hdPDwzuB6ehMIH8MtorCooZipnRZi9oS2ui_JEE/s320/yard-sale-how-to.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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</li>
<li><b>Plan your Yard Sale display ahead of time</b><br />
Don't just think you're going to string a line from two trees to hang clothes at the yard sale. The week before, get the rope out and give it a try. Often times, you'll find you need a different plan...or wonder, "Where in the world did I put that rope?" These are not mysteries you want to try to solve on the morning of your yard sale. Maybe you'll want to borrow some extra tables from friends. We've found that a broom stick between a tree's branches and a ladder makes a really sturdy clothes rack (won't sag all of the clothes together in the middle like a rope). A piece of paneling or plywood on upside-down buckets or recycling bins can make really nice low tables, too...great for putting toys at kid-level! <br />
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</li>
<li><b>Merchandise - pretend like you're opening your own Macy's department store for the day</b><br />
Think like a store merchandiser, and put some thought into where items should be placed. I like to put something good like furniture close to the street as a draw, and then have a large, eye-catching item at the back of the driveway to draw people from the street all the way back through my entire stock of goods. Ever wondered why grocery stores put the milk and eggs at the back of the store? They want you to walk through the cookie and potato chip isle first, so you'll load up your cart on the way. <i>Learn from their example!</i> I had a gigantic framed art piece that I placed toward the back of my yard sale, and it worked like a charm to draw people back to get a good look. Don't be afraid to rearrange items during the sale to get this effect once you figure out what items keep attracting attention.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk7wepXAuLJx1I5p_nurwinlKBBeE1J3n1dPwzzXmQltXge5ODLfsqPlEhbTiUZ7F3-gvHy4SIVbi_4b1NtXP-KDJWcBjzFIRZcdahEyHpSYIQlym3cygtCslNc3SkG0P2dBD_7IXhxtk/s1600/yard-sale-stickers-price-tags.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Yard Sale Stickers Price Tags" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk7wepXAuLJx1I5p_nurwinlKBBeE1J3n1dPwzzXmQltXge5ODLfsqPlEhbTiUZ7F3-gvHy4SIVbi_4b1NtXP-KDJWcBjzFIRZcdahEyHpSYIQlym3cygtCslNc3SkG0P2dBD_7IXhxtk/s320/yard-sale-stickers-price-tags.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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If you have the luxury of being able to set everything up for your yard sale in your garage the night before, that's the way to go because you can get super organized! <i>Of course, does that make it a garage sale and not a yard sale?...no worries, these tips still apply!</i> You want to group like items together to make them easy to find: women's clothes, men's clothes, craft supplies/tools, books, kitchen gadgets, picture frames, electronics, etc. We didn't have that luxury, so our sale was a big disorganized mess at the beginning. No problem, because that leads to my next tip...<br />
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</li>
<li><b>Don't let early birds get you frazzled</b><br />
In fact, use those early birds to your advantage...they're more than willing to help you bring out and unpack boxes. <i>These people are professionals! </i> I don't care how early you try to set up before the start-time of your sale, these people will be lurking and ready to pounce. This can be a little stressful because things won't get put out and organized the way you want, but you'll have all day to get things sorted out...<i>rearranging and looking busy actually attracts more people to stop by</i>. When dealing with early birds, you'll also be glad you had a #1 goal in mind. If your main goal is to make money, you won't feel bad turning away low-ball offers. But, be smart about it! Be polite and <b>offer to take down their name and number in case that item is still available at the end of the day</b>...you might both come out really happy in this case.<br />
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</li>
<li><b>Price with your Yard Sale goal in mind</b><br />
I'm a big fan of not having anything priced at your yard sale because when people go to negotiate, a lot of times they name a price higher than what I have in mind...<b>SCORE!</b> Plus, this makes less work for you because you don't have to tag every single thing or reduce the tagged prices as the day goes on. On some big ticket items, you may want to mark a dollar value if you're not willing to accept less than a certain price. Even if you don't tag, it's good to have some general price guidelines in mind ahead of time, which you can note on signs, such as Books - $1, Magazines $0.25, etc. if you want. If your #1 goal is to make money, you probably do want to go through the extra trouble to price tag all of your items, though, so you can put some thought into how much each item should sell for. This makes things fool-proof if you need to step inside and let someone else man the register for a few minutes, too.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_07cUhdXQj06kqH8zZFNRbTsOQRwvhPugTz1uhFUBbRDVdQ7-fPSajF5eHql_xJvYv_YSU2tc2c-LWUbIMn4E8WFPc4AyoECnBXfXmm3CiG_i7iy10nbLEYOd-8hr19FaOFQHavxI5mg/s1600/how-to-have-a-yard-sale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="How to Have a Yard Sale" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_07cUhdXQj06kqH8zZFNRbTsOQRwvhPugTz1uhFUBbRDVdQ7-fPSajF5eHql_xJvYv_YSU2tc2c-LWUbIMn4E8WFPc4AyoECnBXfXmm3CiG_i7iy10nbLEYOd-8hr19FaOFQHavxI5mg/s320/how-to-have-a-yard-sale.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<li><b>Knowing what to say to improve sales</b><br />
After years of yard sales shopping, I've witnessed a few techniques that caused me to hand over a little extra cash for items, so of course, I made note! Apply these in a warm, polite manner, and you'll do well. <i>I don't recommend doing anything that would make you feel smarmy at the end of the day, so ultimately, do what feels comfortable for you.</i><br />
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<ul>
<li><b>"Whatever you think is fair..." or "Just name a fair price..."</b><br />
You may find it hard go with an un-marked pricing style. For cases like this, I recommend placing a few signs up around your sale that say, "Make an offer," to let people know how to approach you. Then if someone asks you the price of something, break out a variation of, "Whatever you think is fair." <i>This can stop a low-ball offer in its tracks...works like a charm!</i> Be prepared for them to say, "I don't know..." To this I just continue with, "Oh, just make an offer that you think is fair." A yard sale customer feels happy when they get something at a price that pleases them, and if they name the price, that is generally what happens. Plus, remember I said earlier that if I let the customer name the price, they'll generally offer more than I had in mind. <br />
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</li>
<li><b>"No reasonable offer refused"</b><br />
This can really create a buying frenzy, so whether you verbalize this phrase or just put up a few signs at your entrance and "cash register", absolutely use it! (See my <a href="http://bit.ly/Ybb48O" onclick="javascript: pageTracker._trackPageview(‘/downloads/tracking-downloads’); " target="blank"><b>free Printable Yard Sales Signs for these</b></a>.) <i><b>Keep in mind, you get to decided what's reasonable</b></i>. If someone throws out an offer that's too low, just politely decline. In these cases, I might give them a counter offer to let them know where I expect the price to be.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgctUX3sFXz2eD_zmsU426VQqPkcH156OJFQSwWPLDjJUR4Xgi-hms-zSafAdvMwOy4Y8x7A15d7n-4yckBdshqDhXEIdA6cmDsQG-BHthINjHqbTzT8oKsTrZfVpO_6_6LYwxSEwVdpGQ/s1600/yard-sale-signs-to-print.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Yard Sale Signs to Print" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgctUX3sFXz2eD_zmsU426VQqPkcH156OJFQSwWPLDjJUR4Xgi-hms-zSafAdvMwOy4Y8x7A15d7n-4yckBdshqDhXEIdA6cmDsQG-BHthINjHqbTzT8oKsTrZfVpO_6_6LYwxSEwVdpGQ/s320/yard-sale-signs-to-print.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<li><b>"Hmmm..." and a ton of awkward silence</b><br />
You'll have some customers that won't name a price; use this phrase. Or if someone names a low-ball price; use it here, too. This is just a good all-purpose way to encourage them to make an offer or up their price. I like to throw in a "no" head shake or maybe a crazy confused face along with this for good measure to give the buyer some visual clues as to what I think about their price...<i>seriously, try it</i>. You'll be shocked at some of the nice offers you get, as a result...<i><b>the awkward silence is really the key. </b></i><br />
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</li>
<li><b>Use some positive customer quotes to your advantage</b><br />
If someone tells you something positive about the sale, use this to whip up a buyer frenzy. I do this by loudly saying, "Thanks!" in response, and then shouting back to my husband across the entire yard sale, "Did you hear that, Rog? She said we have the best yard sale prices, she's seen all year." This with get other yard salers excited, and lets them know that good things are happening right NOW. Encourage them to snatch things up before they are gone. <br />
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</li>
<li><b>"Are you looking for anything in particular?"</b><br />
Be as helpful as you can to your customers. I'm not a very pushy person by nature, but if I notice someone is holding a skirt and I have a top that matches perfectly, I'd be doing them a disservice if I didn't at least point it out to them...who am I to keep them from finding their new favorite outfit?! ( ; <i><b>This phrase is particularly good to use with early birds</b></i>, especially if you haven't had a chance to unpack and set every thing up. Chances are they saw something in your yard sale ad that piqued their interest, so be sure to find out what it is and unpack those things first....whatever they're looking for, help them find it. A lot of people don't feel comfortable saying that they came solely for XYZ and will just leave...<i>don't let them. <br />
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</i> </li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><b>Identify unknown or confusing items</b><br />It may be hard for your customers to figure out what something is. Give them some visual clues if you can, and then place a little sign or tag on it stating what it is. This will go a long way in facilitating the sale of these things, as you won't always have the time to notice someone staring at this item and get the opportunity to explain. For example, I had a fold-able rack for wrapping paper and ribbon. Who knows what it is when it's just sitting bare, so I put an almost-gone roll of wrapping paper on it, along with a tag explaining that it was great for Christmas wrapping. I included some large blank price tags and tent signs in my <a href="http://bit.ly/Ybb48O" onclick="javascript: pageTracker._trackPageview(‘/downloads/tracking-downloads’); " target="blank">free Printable Yard Sale Signs & Price Tags package</a> precisely for this reason. Noting the history of an item might be helpful for adding value, too...people like a good story. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKar2whUZmWW2_1pHX8UP7zo5cNkaBCSA-1-BCG-AkTa9nRMDo_d9MTeZ8YgefKm7Il1FWBwojxm4QXRnGX9zcsV0WxiRpm-fKya8H_Aqq-zFUS4c4flMnpgGJVUzcqi6d9Ur9jSTqBAk/s1600/printable-yard-sale-price-tags.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Printable Yard Sale Price Tags for Free" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKar2whUZmWW2_1pHX8UP7zo5cNkaBCSA-1-BCG-AkTa9nRMDo_d9MTeZ8YgefKm7Il1FWBwojxm4QXRnGX9zcsV0WxiRpm-fKya8H_Aqq-zFUS4c4flMnpgGJVUzcqi6d9Ur9jSTqBAk/s320/printable-yard-sale-price-tags.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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</li>
<li><b>Be prepared</b><br />
A little preparation will make the big day go a lot smoother and help you sell more.<br />
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<ul>
<li>Have a lot of small change on hand...more than you think you'll need. For our sale, I withdrew $50 from the bank - 1-$10, 2- $5, and 30 - $1 bills. Then I pulled a bunch of quarters out of my husband's change stash. Be sure to note how much change you have on hand, so you won't count this in your profit at the end of the day. Also, know that a lot of people will pay with $20 bills.<br />
</li>
<li>Save up lots of plastic shopping bags, as well as some newspaper for wrapping breakables. Having some spare boxes can help people carry off their treasures. Offer boxes to customers holding a lot of items, too, to encourage them to buy more than they can easily carry.<br />
</li>
<li>Keep a roll of paper towels or Swiffers around for wiping off dust or cobwebs you might have missed.<b><br />
</b></li>
<li><b>Have an extension cord, power strip, or plug around</b>, so people can try things before they buy. When people ask if something works, offer them the plug....this will go a long way toward buyer confidence and help you fetch a better price.</li>
</ul>
<b> </b></li>
<li><b>Create the yard sale you'd want to go to</b><br />
When it comes to all other yard sale decisions, just put yourself in your clients shoes to help you come to a conclusion. For example, I'm not a morning person, so I usually hit yard sales up late in the day. If the ad or sign says, it extends until 1:00 or later, then it will make my cut of places to go that day. Of course, we didn't want to miss out on those early birds either, so we set our yard sale hours for 7:00 am - 2:00 pm.<br />
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</li>
<li><b>Get creative with your Yard Sale goal - our "FREE HOUR"</b><br />
Throughout your sale, make sure you're hitting your goal. Yard Sales are fluid, so don't be afraid to change your strategy midstream. If something isn't working, try something else. Toward the end of the sale, we realized we still had a lot of stuff that we'd have to pack up and haul away. Keeping in mind our #1 goal was to get rid of clutter, my husband came up with the brilliant idea to do a Free Hour for the last hour of our sale. At this point, we took out a few items that we decided we'd keep or sell on Craigslist. Then when people walked up, we just told them whatever they wanted was free and to take as much as they wanted. <i><b>I wish we could have bottled the joy people expressed!!</b></i> It was absolutely incredible to watch people light up when we told them. We helped them, and they helped us. Such an awesome feeling that I can't even describe it....<i>absolutely one of the best things we've ever done. </i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjpOCwReGWBaMBxYVKcOG6A0PwB86NPgjQ22acMkjMNonS5f__mwkeL1StrnNHWEg20e9P_PkHONZUWdWaUK_-H6qjCxobkf_k6sDkY47dV7HCOABto0Jy8Wvh86dkEFlrc-8bPssY_OU/s1600/garage-sale-tips.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Garage Sale Tips" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjpOCwReGWBaMBxYVKcOG6A0PwB86NPgjQ22acMkjMNonS5f__mwkeL1StrnNHWEg20e9P_PkHONZUWdWaUK_-H6qjCxobkf_k6sDkY47dV7HCOABto0Jy8Wvh86dkEFlrc-8bPssY_OU/s320/garage-sale-tips.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<li><b>Advertise your Yard Sale</b><br />
This is such an important piece of the yard sale puzzle that I'll be devoting an entire post to advertising and signage in the future! (Did I mention my full-time job is in marketing, and that I have a degree in advertising?) But for now the basics...create a Craigslist post, or if your area doesn't have Craigslist, an ad in your local newspaper might be a good bet. Try to think of other advertising options you have, such as classified listings at work or your church bulletin.<br />
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<li><b>Schedule end-of-sale charity pick-ups earlier in the week</b><br />
It's pretty hard to find a charity that will do same-day pick up of your leftover items, at least it was in our area. From talking with many operators, I learned it's best to schedule these at least a week in advance, so they'll show up shortly after your sale ends. If you don't mind making a delivery, our Salvation Army had the most convenient Saturday drop-off hours for us, as they were open a lot later into the afternoon.<br />
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<li><b>Have fun!</b><br />
We met lots of great people at our yard sale and had a great time chatting. Plus, I always enjoy seeing something I really like find a new home that will love and enjoy it...sometimes, that makes it a lot easier to let things go.</li>
</ul>
Do you have any great Yard Sale tips and tricks? I'd love to hear them!! Please post a comment, share on <a href="http://facebook.com/BellyFeathers" target="blank">Facebook</a> or <a href="http://twitter.com/BellyFeathers" target="blank">Twitter</a>, or shoot me an email at <a href="mailto:Betsy@BellyFeathers.com">Betsy@BellyFeathers.com</a>.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://bit.ly/Ybb48O" onclick="javascript: pageTracker._trackPageview(‘/downloads/tracking-downloads’); " target="blank"><img alt="Printable Yard Sale Signs Free 11x17 inches" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK41yjWtEviHqk0BV9xT9P0QpmVMSO87lC-3-C54dmSNTkQSYjrrp6h-y4bGMSaaou91OYDRAAPDsZtOiUgH6agEfTivpln9zaJH8d8fs7zTx2UnWQTniWS5yYRKk-yo2Hi7GJn41OvL4/s320/printable-yard-sale-signs-free-lg.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Be sure to download my cute <a href="http://bit.ly/Ybb48O" onclick="javascript: pageTracker._trackPageview(‘/downloads/tracking-downloads’); " target="blank"><b>Printable Yard Sale Signs and Price Tags</b></a>, too! They're FREE!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><p></p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="105" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DwCtmQbp0MI/THhX4Cq0W-I/AAAAAAAADm4/pL3yRhefU3o/s400/belly-feathers-party-rss-feed.jpg" width="400" //></div>
<p align=center>See my products & services at <a href=http://www.BellyFeathers.com>BellyFeathers.com.</a></p>
<p align=center><a href=http://www.facebook.com/BellyFeathers>Join the Belly Feathers community on Facebook.</a></p></div>Belly Feathershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15786347349578314528noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4403212839025640928.post-77159254915391662172011-08-22T00:05:00.000-05:002013-02-14T12:39:32.759-06:00Free Printable Yard Sale Signs & Price TagsWhen you have cute <b>Yard Sale Signs</b>, you can attract a better clientele. That's why I decided to design these <a href="http://bit.ly/Ybb48O" onclick="javascript: pageTracker._trackPageview(‘/downloads/tracking-downloads’); " target="blank"><b>Printable Yard Sale Signs & Price Tags</b></a> for my own garage sale, and now, I'm sharing them with you for <i><b>FREE</b></i>!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://bit.ly/Ybb48O" onclick="javascript: pageTracker._trackPageview(‘/downloads/tracking-downloads’); " target="blank"><img alt="Free Printable Yard Sale Signs" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbVqTk0h3pcNCT36ghG_QWoLKTwo-HiNVeYtH4UNg-rtERc7GWU5ilLavJMkBinNpN9XyBBLAksW0WZj7_JEe8ySaWLAetwEJ9_d2crUk2K53DMpWA7yrWlF42Mgp3TehOl2_Omz_Wn_8/s400/free-printable-yard-sale-si.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I've been designing more and more <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/BellyFeathers" target="blank"><b>Printable Party Invitations and Party Supplies</b></a> for my customers over the last few months. They're a great way to get a variety of highly coordinated party supplies at a small flat rate. Once you get your Printable PDF, you can print unlimited copies of the items you need. Plus, they give you the flexibility to get creative and use the graphics in new ways...so much fun!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh0Hz6jiY1MB04N_VtWJmp44l_6XZpMitqJBOEKnQEHL9GZ8_kTxgwUwwLHtxpZYq2ucF-nhiNZt0_sZyyidZEl05VqlpobSdkBQLpDb-9zAPmUjbqpmUIg72r3eW6TNJjvQvv6gXMK0I/s1600/yard-sale-stickers-price-tags.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Yard Sale Stickers and Price Tags" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh0Hz6jiY1MB04N_VtWJmp44l_6XZpMitqJBOEKnQEHL9GZ8_kTxgwUwwLHtxpZYq2ucF-nhiNZt0_sZyyidZEl05VqlpobSdkBQLpDb-9zAPmUjbqpmUIg72r3eW6TNJjvQvv6gXMK0I/s400/yard-sale-stickers-price-tags.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I know I had a fantastic time playing with my <a href="http://bit.ly/Ybb48O" onclick="javascript: pageTracker._trackPageview(‘/downloads/tracking-downloads’); " target="blank"><b>Yard Sale Printables</b></a>. I had originally designed some graphics for small circular price tags, and then I discovered they would make perfect cards for displaying (and keeping together) earrings for sale! See what I mean about getting creative and having fun?! My jewelry looked so cute on these cards that all of my pieces were snatched up within the first couple of hours...part of that had to be due to the presentation. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://bit.ly/Ybb48O" onclick="javascript: pageTracker._trackPageview(‘/downloads/tracking-downloads’); " target="blank"><img alt="Printable Yard Sale Signs Free" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4jsnh-aUw_RclvYiJLrSzyM5Duy81Pv6Wkk3Eom6J3mwKoJ-QlRao44bgZX10oimhKN6G-bAxSViK1jO2SoXA1qmAfsAtnN3dupJdZsPHixYNRfBvv5RRzKhKq1vsb7bfnPzCmpnGYjI/s1600/printable-yard-sale-signs-free.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Check out my <a href="http://bellyfeathersparty.blogspot.com/2011/08/yard-sale-how-to.html"><b>Tips for a Successful Yard Sale</b></a>. My husband and I made $913 at our yard sale this month!!<br />
<b><i><br />
What are you waiting for?!</i></b> Download these <a href="http://bit.ly/Ybb48O" onclick="javascript: pageTracker._trackPageview(‘/downloads/tracking-downloads’); " target="blank"><b>Printable Yard Sale Signs and Price Tags</b></a> now! I promise you'll get a lot of compliments...<i>I did!</i><div class="blogger-post-footer"><p></p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="105" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DwCtmQbp0MI/THhX4Cq0W-I/AAAAAAAADm4/pL3yRhefU3o/s400/belly-feathers-party-rss-feed.jpg" width="400" //></div>
<p align=center>See my products & services at <a href=http://www.BellyFeathers.com>BellyFeathers.com.</a></p>
<p align=center><a href=http://www.facebook.com/BellyFeathers>Join the Belly Feathers community on Facebook.</a></p></div>Belly Feathershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15786347349578314528noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4403212839025640928.post-42801856709901171392011-05-04T22:54:00.001-05:002011-05-04T22:55:53.225-05:00Cinco de Mayo Margarita RecipeWhen I think of Cinco de Mayo, I think of <b>MARGARITAS</b>! You'll find me sipping one on May 5th for sure.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k4Rme6Z2Qjg/TcIZ-_v-dlI/AAAAAAAAEd0/mZG4tscYRhA/s1600/cinco-de-mayo-margarita-recipe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Cinco de Mayo Margarita Recipe" border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k4Rme6Z2Qjg/TcIZ-_v-dlI/AAAAAAAAEd0/mZG4tscYRhA/s400/cinco-de-mayo-margarita-recipe.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Photo by <a href="http://www.clickphotodesigns.com/" target="blank">Sarah Brewer of Click Photo Designs</a></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
My husband and I noticed that our favorite Mexican restaurant adds orange juice in their margarita mix, which takes the edge off the too-tart mix most places serve. For our <a href="http://bellyfeathersparty.blogspot.com/2011/05/celebrating-cinco-de-mayo-margarita.html"><b>Cinco de Mayo Margarita Party</b></a>, we crafted our own margarita recipe to make use of this secret ingredient.<br />
<h4><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dEcHMT2Aurg/TcIaZP6bWsI/AAAAAAAAEd4/U3k62ZgON8c/s1600/cinco-de-mayo-margarita-recipe-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Cinco de Mayo Margarita Recipe Card" border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dEcHMT2Aurg/TcIaZP6bWsI/AAAAAAAAEd4/U3k62ZgON8c/s320/cinco-de-mayo-margarita-recipe-2.jpg" width="217" /></a>Pruitt House Margaritas</h4><i><b>One Part</b></i><br />
Tequila, Triple Sec, Sour Mix<br />
<br />
<i><b>Two Parts </b></i><br />
Orange Juice<br />
<br />
<i><b>Three Parts</b></i><br />
Margarita Mix<br />
<br />
I like drink recipes that use parts, so you can easily scale the recipe up or down to fill a single glass or an entire drink dispenser like we did for our party.<br />
<br />
After trying many brands of ingredients that were economical for a large party, our favorites for this recipe were<br />
<ul><li>Margaritaville Silver Tequilla</li>
<li>Master of Mixes Sour Mix</li>
<li>Tropicana No-Pulp Orange Juice</li>
<li>Jose Cuervo Margarita Mix</li>
</ul><br />
If you missed any of my <b><a href="http://bellyfeathersparty.blogspot.com/2011/05/celebrating-cinco-de-mayo-margarita.html">Cinco de Mayo Margarita Party Pics</a></b>, be sure to check them out.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q8DrCTE8_kc/TcIayaluTpI/AAAAAAAAEeA/pSjvsUXKvnc/s1600/margarita-recipe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Margarita Drink Dispenser" border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q8DrCTE8_kc/TcIayaluTpI/AAAAAAAAEeA/pSjvsUXKvnc/s400/margarita-recipe.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Photo by <a href="http://www.clickphotodesigns.com/" target="blank">Sarah Brewer of Click Photo Designs</a></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Happy Cinco de Mayo! </b></i> </div><p></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><p></p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="105" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DwCtmQbp0MI/THhX4Cq0W-I/AAAAAAAADm4/pL3yRhefU3o/s400/belly-feathers-party-rss-feed.jpg" width="400" //></div>
<p align=center>See my products & services at <a href=http://www.BellyFeathers.com>BellyFeathers.com.</a></p>
<p align=center><a href=http://www.facebook.com/BellyFeathers>Join the Belly Feathers community on Facebook.</a></p></div>Belly Feathershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15786347349578314528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4403212839025640928.post-68978139171869369952011-05-03T19:57:00.005-05:002011-05-03T20:08:07.624-05:00Easy Fried Ice Cream RecipeI've been known to order <b>Fried Ice Cream</b> as my entree at Mexican restaurants...just ask my husband. I LOVE the combo of creamy ice cream and crunchy coating, so I knew I wanted to have this on my <a href="http://bellyfeathersparty.blogspot.com/2011/05/celebrating-cinco-de-mayo-margarita.html"><b>Cinco de Mayo Margarita Party</b></a> menu. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PEw_IgRE738/TcCicV7G6AI/AAAAAAAAEdk/kihnHZPtCJg/s1600/fried-ice-cream-recipe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PEw_IgRE738/TcCicV7G6AI/AAAAAAAAEdk/kihnHZPtCJg/s400/fried-ice-cream-recipe.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Photo by <a href="http://www.clickphotodesigns.com/" target="blank">Sarah Brewer of Click Photo Designs</a></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
I thought it would something really unique to have outside of a restaurant, and once I figured out the right combo of ingredients, I realized how easy it is to make.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bPq95wgDX0I/TcCij1kxkCI/AAAAAAAAEdo/7wHA-f-U6IQ/s1600/how-to-make-fried-ice-cream.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bPq95wgDX0I/TcCij1kxkCI/AAAAAAAAEdo/7wHA-f-U6IQ/s400/how-to-make-fried-ice-cream.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Photo by <a href="http://www.clickphotodesigns.com/" target="blank">Sarah Brewer of Click Photo Designs</a></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
You can make the fried ice cream 8-10 hours before your party, and it will be super yummy when you pull it out of the freezer. If you leave them in the freezer much longer, the crunchy coating will get soggy.<br />
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After many trial-and-error attempts, here's my super easy take on this Mexican treat! <i>Mmmm!</i><br />
<h4>Betsy's Easy No-Fry Fried Ice Cream</h4>3-4 cups vanilla ice cream <br />
1 cup corn flakes, crushed<br />
1 tablespoon honey<br />
1 pinch cinnamon<br />
<br />
Line a cookie sheet with aluminum foil.<br />
<br />
Scoop vanilla ice cream into four baseball-sized balls onto a cookie sheet. Place cookie sheet in the freezer for at least 30 minutes to harden ice cream balls.<br />
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Pour corn flakes into a gallon-sized, zip-top bag and seal, removing excess air. Use a rolling pin to crush corn flakes.<br />
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Add honey and cinnamon to bag and stir.<br />
<br />
Remove one ice cream ball from the freezer at a time, and roll it in the bag of crumbs to coat completely. It will start to melt from the warmth of your hands, so quickly return it to the freezer to harden again before serving. Coating will stay crunchy for 8-10 hours in the freezer.<br />
<br />
Makes 4 servings.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.scribd.com/full/54565045?access_key=key-ycc57wlodmc9knb14vi" target="blank"><i>Download the 3x5 Recipe Card<br />
<br />
</i></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.scribd.com/full/54565045?access_key=key-ycc57wlodmc9knb14vi" target="blank" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="191" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-idIEHS660gA/TcCmPnfAfZI/AAAAAAAAEdw/cJrH7u4d5Ds/s320/recipe-card-no-fry-fried-ice-cream.png" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
<i><b>Let me know if you try it out!</b></i></div><p></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><p></p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="105" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DwCtmQbp0MI/THhX4Cq0W-I/AAAAAAAADm4/pL3yRhefU3o/s400/belly-feathers-party-rss-feed.jpg" width="400" //></div>
<p align=center>See my products & services at <a href=http://www.BellyFeathers.com>BellyFeathers.com.</a></p>
<p align=center><a href=http://www.facebook.com/BellyFeathers>Join the Belly Feathers community on Facebook.</a></p></div>Belly Feathershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15786347349578314528noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4403212839025640928.post-89318715656216027922011-05-02T19:27:00.002-05:002011-05-02T20:00:32.962-05:00DIY Mexican Paper Flags: Easy Papel Picado AlternativeWhen I was planning my <b><a href="http://bellyfeathersparty.blogspot.com/2011/05/celebrating-cinco-de-mayo-margarita.html">Cinco de Mayo Margarita Party</a></b>, I immediately decided I wanted <b>Mexican Paper Flags</b>, also known as <i>papel picado</i>. If you've ever seen photos of these flags hanging over streets in Mexico, you know how festive they look. However, these can be kind of pricy to purchase, as they should be considering the intricate designs cut into the tissue paper by hand.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jz7yNMU2ZaA/Tb9E5jrYGMI/AAAAAAAAEcs/SzTLZqBGMTE/s1600/cinco-de-mayo-decorations.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jz7yNMU2ZaA/Tb9E5jrYGMI/AAAAAAAAEcs/SzTLZqBGMTE/s400/cinco-de-mayo-decorations.jpg" alt="Cinco de Mayo Decorations" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Photo by <a href="http://www.clickphotodesigns.com/" target=blank>Sarah Brewer of Click Photo Designs</a></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
My easy alternative was inspired by a <a href="http://www.projectwedding.com/wedding-ideas/diy-bunting-101" target=blank>DIY Bunting Tutorial on Project Wedding</a>. I love the clean lines! You can leave your flags blank or stamp a pretty design on them like I did.<br />
<br />
<h4><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Dd98MoC7qnI/Tb9Fad9a_JI/AAAAAAAAEcw/nuDOOiC_u28/s1600/diy-mexican-paper-flags.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Dd98MoC7qnI/Tb9Fad9a_JI/AAAAAAAAEcw/nuDOOiC_u28/s200/diy-mexican-paper-flags.jpg" alt="DIY Mexican Paper Flags" width="200" /></a>How to Make Mexican Paper Flags</h4><i><b>Supplies Needed </b></i><br />
<ul><li>Tissue paper in multiple colors</li>
<li>Lever-style paper trimmer or scissors</li>
<li>Rubber stamp (optional)</li>
<li>Ink (optional)</li>
<li>Glue stick</li>
<li>Twine</li>
</ul><br />
<br />
<ol><li>Cut multiple sheets of tissue at once into 8x6" strips using a lever paper trimmer or scissors. Fold in half to create 4x6" flags.<br />
<br />
</li>
<li>Using a rubber stamp and ink, stamp a design onto your folded flags. I stamped a flower in the upper left corner of all my orange flags, in the center of all my yellow flags, and in the bottom right of all my green flags for variety.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8DtxmS03WMc/Tb9FcLK2I9I/AAAAAAAAEc8/PaOsJD49D2Q/s1600/how-to-make-mexican-flags.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8DtxmS03WMc/Tb9FcLK2I9I/AAAAAAAAEc8/PaOsJD49D2Q/s320/how-to-make-mexican-flags.jpg" alt="How to Make Mexican Flags" width="320" /></a></div><br />
</li>
<li>Unfold one of the flags, and run a glue stick around the four edges of the inside of the bottom half.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3jq5ssRZ3cE/Tb9FcXlitCI/AAAAAAAAEdA/j0pD0BU2pJU/s1600/how-to-make-papel-picado.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3jq5ssRZ3cE/Tb9FcXlitCI/AAAAAAAAEdA/j0pD0BU2pJU/s320/how-to-make-papel-picado.jpg" alt="How to Make Papel Picado" width="320" /></a></div><br />
</li>
<li>Place a length of twine in the fold of the flag, and fold in half to adhere the flags edges together. I used <a href="http://whiskergraphics.com/item/Lemon_Divine_Twine/5/c16" target=blank>Divine Twine in Lemon by Whisker Graphics</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BGzIMP8g_AU/Tb9FbXInK9I/AAAAAAAAEc4/Qxb2lPzS6mk/s1600/how-to-make-flag-garland.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BGzIMP8g_AU/Tb9FbXInK9I/AAAAAAAAEc4/Qxb2lPzS6mk/s320/how-to-make-flag-garland.jpg" alt="How to Make Flag Garland" width="320" /></a></div><br />
</li>
<li>Leaving 2-3" section of twine from the edge of this flag, adhere the next flag onto the twine. Repeat with desired amount of flags.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H_ZgMg7beZI/Tb9FaxaG6aI/AAAAAAAAEc0/SwhIcYy9Adg/s1600/diy-tissue-paper-flags.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H_ZgMg7beZI/Tb9FaxaG6aI/AAAAAAAAEc0/SwhIcYy9Adg/s320/diy-tissue-paper-flags.jpg" alt="DIY Tissue Paper Flags" width="320" /></a></div><br />
</li>
<li>Hang and enjoy!</li>
</ol><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Pgck6u6ig3M/Tb9KAJjFmhI/AAAAAAAAEdM/L2CBEyuJV7E/s1600/hanging-papel-picado.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Pgck6u6ig3M/Tb9KAJjFmhI/AAAAAAAAEdM/L2CBEyuJV7E/s320/hanging-papel-picado.jpg" alt="Hanging Papel Picado" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f108o4y0UHg/Tb9J_V3S2eI/AAAAAAAAEdE/74fV9qPQ3PE/s1600/diy-papel-picado.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f108o4y0UHg/Tb9J_V3S2eI/AAAAAAAAEdE/74fV9qPQ3PE/s320/diy-papel-picado.jpg" alt="DIY Papel Picado" width="320" /></a></div><br />
If you missed the photos from my <a href="http://bellyfeathersparty.blogspot.com/2011/05/celebrating-cinco-de-mayo-margarita.html"><b>Cinco de Mayo Margarita Party</b></a>, be sure to check them out!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ieUoWOqHAVA/Tb9J_zEt4UI/AAAAAAAAEdI/nixfKdz47xQ/s1600/hanging-mexican-paper-flags.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ieUoWOqHAVA/Tb9J_zEt4UI/AAAAAAAAEdI/nixfKdz47xQ/s320/hanging-mexican-paper-flags.jpg" alt="Hanging Mexican Paper Flags" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<b>I'd love to see photos if you make your own Mexican Paper Flags!</b><p></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><p></p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<p align=center>See my products & services at <a href=http://www.BellyFeathers.com>BellyFeathers.com.</a></p>
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