Blueberry and Feta Topped Salad

I recently embarked on a weight loss journey.

But I won't bore you with the details of that today.

I only mention it because it has led me try some creative, healthy salads that have, shall we say, somewhat unexpected combinations of ingredients.

This Blueberry and Feta Topped Salad is so delicious and fresh and pretty, that I couldn't resist sharing it with you.  If you would like a few more adjectives, it is also low-fat, easy and downright yummy!

Blueberry Feta Topped Salad
baby arugula
baby spinach
small handful of blueberries (approx 1/4 cup)
1/4 cup reduced fat feta cheese
balsamic vinegar
lemon pepper

Toss together first 4 ingredients.  Drizzle with balsamic vinegar.  Sprinkle with lemon pepper to taste.
Enjoy!

p.s. I'm not endorsing any weight loss companies or websites shown in the photos.  I just thought their images were hi-larious!

Pattern Testing: Wee Muses' Prairie Rose

I had the absolute pleasure of testing the Prairie Rose pattern for Anneliese at Wee Muses Patterns. You may also know Anneliese from her blog Aesthetic Nest where she sews, crochets, cooks and entertains and shares beautiful photos of her adorable girls.  Or you may have seen one of her two Etsy shops Aesthetic Nest or Wee Muses,  in which she sells her sewing and crochet patterns and some fun printables.

The Prairie Rose Pattern includes a dress, top, skirt and pants that all feature over-sized ruffles reminiscent of southwestern, prairie style clothing.  I chose to sew the top and pants and was thrilled with how they turned out.

The pattern was easy to follow and the instructions were clear.  The construction of the pieces was cleverly simple.  I especially love how the ruffles on the blouse were created.  The pattern has tons of photos to guide you along.

This was the first Wee Muses pattern I have tried, and I am eager to sew some more!

I sewed this outfit for my sweet niece Julianna.

She jumped up and down and began dancing at the sight of the clothes...definitely a sign that she liked them!

I used a bold flower print for the top and a coordinating polka-dot for the pants.

I trimmed all of the ruffles with teeny-tiny turquoise pom-poms.  I also created a matching headband with the leftover fabric and trim.

When Julianna tried the outfit on, she wouldn't stop twirling around.

It is wonderful to sew for someone who loves and treasures the clothes!

I'm starting to think about ruffled Prairie Rose Christmas dresses.....hmmm.....are you?

This week Anneliese is offering a 20% off in either of her shops when you use the code  THANKS20 at check out!  The Prairie Rose pattern launches this week, so you can grab it with the discount!

linked up at: feather's flights, not just a houswife, aesthetic nest, the train to crazy

Beaded Christmas Tree Hat with a Jingle Bell on Top

I've been hard at work on my latest crochet pattern.  And I'm happy to say that it's finally ready and in my Etsy shop!

It is the festive Beaded Christmas Tree Hat and it is as fun to crochet as it is to wear!

 My little ones have been wearing theirs around and singing Jingle Bells.  They bob their heads so the jingle bell on top plays in rhythm with the song!

The pattern has instructions for sizes from preemie/doll all the way up to adult, so everyone can have one.

They would make terrific props for a unique holiday portrait or Christmas card...

They are perfect to sell at a craft fair or bazaar...

And they would make a special gift for anyone who appreciates lovingly-crafted, handmade goodies.

I even think they work as cheerful holiday decor when they're not being worn!

The pattern is clear and easy to follow for a confident beginner to intermediate level crocheter.  The beads are crocheted right on as you go, rather than sewn on later.  And, I have included a photo tutorial of the textured stitch and the beading technique!  The pattern is now available in my etsy shop, just click here.