Pumpkin spice and everything nice
September 21, 2015
The first day of fall hasn’t even hit yet, but I’m seeing pumpkin spice latte-everything. Everywhere.
And while I’m tempted to wrap my hands around the warm, white cup you can pick up for a couple (or more) dollars at the “star” coffee chain, I resist. It’s super easy to make your own version of this beloved fall treat at home. Whether you prefer some creamer in your coffee or syrup so you can make the real thing, it’s a quick process. Plus, the ingredients are most likely already in your cabinet at home — or you can grab them for the same amount you’d spend on one latte at the cafe.
Pumpkin spice coffee creamer
2 cups milk (soy, almond, rice, dairy — whichever you prefer)
2 tbs pumpkin puree
4 dates, skinned
1 tbs maple syrup (the real stuff)
1 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp each nutmeg, clove and ginger
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1 pinch salt
2 tbs coconut oil
Simply mix all the ingredients in a blender or food processor and combine!
Tip: Store it in a glass bottle and it will keep for weeks.
Pumpkin spice syrup
3/4 cup water
3/4 cup brown sugar (not packed!)
1/4 cup pumpkin puree
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp nutmeg
3 dashes clove
Combine sugar and water over medium heat. Once the sugar dissolves, add the remaining ingredients. Allow the mixture to simmer for five minutes, then strain through a mesh strainer. Store this in a glass bottle as well and it will last weeks. Always shake before using because it will separate in the fridge.
Tip: And, of course, it’s the not the true experience unless you have the white travel mug. I opt for a reusable one. The double wall insulation keeps your drink — spiced or not — hotter for longer. The silicone lid seals tightly and the whole thing can be thrown in the dishwasher.
Spice pumpkin pie filling
Because that’s where it all started, right?
3 eggs
1 cup milk
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1 tsp cinnamon
3/4 tsp nutmeg
1/2 tsp salt
1.2 tsp ginger
1/2 tsp clove
1 15-ounce can pumpkin puree
Beat eggs lightly and add in milk, both sugars, salt and spices. Once combined, add pumpkin and stir in until all ingredients are combined. Pour into your favorite pie crust (homemade or store bought) and bake at 350 degrees for 50 to 60 minutes or until a knife removes cleanly.
Tip: Want that golden crust? Glass pie pans retain heat better than ceramic or metal and therefore allow better browning.
How to build a cat shelter with plastic bins
September 17, 2015
Winter weather can be deadly for our feline friends.
If you’re a cat lover like me, it can be difficult to ignore the feral kitties that come begging for food. Sometimes these felines come knocking, but for whatever reason we just cannot welcome them into our homes. That doesn’t mean we can’t help.
The colder months are creeping in on us. Whether you have feral cats that roam your yard or just prefer letting your pets explore the outdoors, plastic bins can be used to make some inexpensive, very cozy kitty homes.
How to build a cat shelter
The easiest way to create a DIY cat shelter is by stacking two different sized plastic bins. Use a large plastic bin as the main unit, cutting entrance and exit holes. Then place the smaller bin inside and cut matching holes. From here, fill the space between the bins with your choice of insulation to help maintain body heat. Put the lid on the smaller bin and place more insulation on top. Next, put the lid on top of the large bin and – voila – kitty house!
Ideas for insulation include: blankets, foam insulation and straw. If you’re not sold on the plastic bins, consider:
- A styrofoam cooler
- Picnic cooler
- Storage bins
What to keep in mind
When building an outdoor shelter for family or feral cats, remember:
- Keep shelters away from dogs!
- Keep shelters out of sight from any indoor cats you may have. When indoor kitties get a glimpse of other strange cats roaming around their domain, it may trigger some aggressive behavior inside the home.
- Consider cutting two entrances so cats have an escape if confronted by opossums, raccoons or other rodents.
Find a wide selection of plastic bins at Organize-It.
Jewelry Tree Meets Soap Pump
September 16, 2015
How great would it be if everything you keep on the bathroom counter could be replaced by one magnificent organizer? Well, now it can.
My bathroom counter sees a lot of clutter. Hair ties, washcloths, earrings that MUST come out as soon as I get home from the office — it’s never ending. And before now all I could do was try to neatly put it on a shelf above the sink, keeping the counter clear for the others who frequent the restroom. But, inevitably, things were always falling off. Plus, the cluttered look just always got to me.
About a week ago we got this awesome new product — and it’s the perfect solution for my water closet clutter.
This all-in-one jewelry tree, soap pump and towel bar comes in a compact design that securely sits on your bathroom counter. The sleek brushed steel finish and clean straight lines create the perfect modern accent that compliments any traditional or contemporary decor.
The pump holds up to eight ounces of liquid, whether you choose to use it for hand or face soap, or even lotion. The tree has a non-slip bottom so it stays in place, even on slick counters. But the best part is the two movable arms. These bars are great for washcloths, jewelry, hair accessories and more. The bottom of the stand even has a lip around the edge so you can use it as a jewelry tray. I like to leave rings and earrings here when I’m too busy to put them away right away. It’s even great for setting out your accessories the night before work to cut down your time trying to get out the door.
This stainless steel jewelry tree and soap pump is sure to last years and always look great whether you utilize it in the bathroom, on your nightstand, vanity or in a walk-in closet.
Find this awesome piece and other products like it at StacksandStacks.com.