Friday, January 31, 2014

TALK ABOUT YOUR JOYS



And they were good.  I really enjoyed making them.  I gravitate toward pretty desserts.  I remember very long ago being at a fancy fundraiser, in a fancy hotel in Chicago, wearing a fancy dress, eating fancy food.  But when dessert was served, it was not fancy at all.  It was a work of art.  It was a replica of a grand piano made out of dark and white chocolate, the white for the mini, mini individual keys.  I didn't want to eat it.  I wanted to smuggle it home in my purse and maybe try to preserve it with hairspray or bug repellent.  But I caved and ate it.  Wow, imagine making that for 200+ people.  Here is the link for the recipe.  The cheesecakes, not the grand pianos.



But before we went I took a few snaps of some changes in her home.  In the kitchen, she just recently purchased this island.  Not fancy but just perfect for extra workspace across from the sink and stove and next to the fridge...that perfect triangle.  She's an avid cook and no doubt they will update the kitchen at some point, and I'm sure it will be beautiful as well as functional.  She has done an amazing job with every room.


This is one of the guest bedrooms that I've shown you before only with a view of the other side with the pretty iron bed and linens.  This side shows the ladder she found at an antique store when we visited with Kris from Junk Chic Cottage last summer.  She has it decorated so cute.  And the dresser is from a sister duo who scout out old furniture, paint and replace hardware.  Oh...if we all had that time.











And that, my friends, is what I'm aiming to do!  Big plans tomorrow for my birthday celebration...I'll tell you about it next week with plenty of pics.  And today, a big giveway if you can guess my age.  Ha!  No, no.  But go ahead and give it a gander!

Big hugs to all,

XO,
Jane

54 comments:

Pondside said...

What a busy life you have, Jane. It must be so nice to have your daughter close by and to see her setting up her house - so very pretty!

Wanda said...

The mini cup cakes look delicious, and cute too.

What a nice addition to the bedroom at your daughters the ladder makes. The bedroom looks so inviting.

Sarah said...

Jane, you are a busy girl! Hope the D… is going well for you. The "pretty" cupcakes are adorable. I'm going to make these for an upcoming meeting I'm hosting the day before Valentine's. They'll be perfect. '-)

Leslie Harris said...

Aw, Layla looks so cute.... but i'm sorry, I can't take my eyes off those yummy looking cream cheese cupcakes. I'm definitely making these Jane!

Lynn said...

Lovin' those fun cupcakes Jane! Got a kick out of Layla stealing the bed, pets are honestly as bad as kids:@) Enjoy your B-Day, have fun!

Primitive Stars said...

Oh Jane, those cupcakes look soooo yummy, my mouth is watering....Love the cottage decorated bedroom, sweet little ladder......Keep Cozy, Francine.

Nancy's Notes said...

Hi busy Jane! Those look just delicious, could have one right now! I know you must love your daughter living nearby, mine does and I love it. Sweet bedroom!

Rita C at Panoply said...

Well, young lady, are you about to turn 55? That's my guess, and I'm stickin' to it.
♪♫ HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!♪♫
Meanwhile, Emily - start your blog now! That way you can see for yourself how your talents will grow!
Layla, I KNEW you were guilty when I saw that picture of you - now get out of Milo's bed! How would you like it if Milo wore your sweater?!
I think I'm gonna make those cupcakes - have a baby shower to plan for niece on the 15th.
Jane, he's a foot taller than me at 6'3" (and I'm still shrinking). :)

Deb @ Frugal Little Bungalow said...

THAT is easy. 39


FUN to see the changes at Emily's...she is really fixing it up prettily !

The little sweets that you made look as if they belong in a bakery...or my mouth, ha ha ha :)

Vicki @ lifeinmyemptynest said...

Your cupcakes are so pretty and yum! I bake with Splenda all the time as a diabetic. I love your thinking - don't deprive yourself because 1 mini cupcake now and then can make anyone happier :-)

Kathy @ Creative Home Expressions said...

You helped me out with this post, Jane! I need one of those dog food canisters for our dog's food. I've read that it's not good to just keep it in the bag in your pantry {mice, bugs}. I guess I'm off to Home Goods, maybe tomorrow before we get hit with this "major storm" that is supposed to come Tuesday late.

Your dessert looks delicious. My problem would be that I'd have two bites of one and then want another {and another and another}!

Shirley said...

Good Morning Jane, Happy Happy Birthday to you. Hubby and you could almost celebrate together. His birthday is tomorrow. He was a Ground Hog baby. I look out my window with my car covered in snow again. They say we could get some more just what we needed. If I made cupcakes even mini's I would eat them all. I like your daughters house and if she had a blog I would read it. Stay safe and warm. I will still in a winter storm advisory until evening. Hugs and Prayers from Your Missouri Friend

Shabby soul said...

Happy birthday!
Love your cupcake, seems perfect for Valentine!
Thanks for share!
Silvia

Lynne said...

Happy Birthday, Jane!

Firstly, I am one who loves it when blog friends share the love and pride they have for their kids. Emily is so very talented. Perhaps, if she does not wish to take on an entire blog at once, she could do a guest post on yours once a month.

We have been in Canada for six days...returning home today. I am going to make those beautiful little cheesecakes for Chrislyn's birthday! They are so pretty. If you don't mind, I would like to pin them.

Layla and Milo are definitely the comedy relief with their never ending quest for comfort!

Have a wonderful birthday weekend! I'll be tippin' a cold one your way as soon as we're home and unpacked.

I say...53.
w/L

Unknown said...

First, Happy B'day!
Second, I want some cup cakes like those!
Sorry about the W/D, and you not liking your tables!

Hope you all have a great celebration. Take care!

Kathleen Grace said...

Those mini cheesecakes look wonderful! We have a party tomorrow and I'm thinking I'll give the recipe a gander and see if that might be just the dish to take.
Your daughter's home is so pretty! Come on Emily, time to blog :>)
The sofa is pretty, and if there is one thing I've learned, if you are going to spend good money on furnishings, you better love them, so sending back the tables you didn't love was a smart move!

Beth said...

Hi Jane, and Happy Birthday! Your mini cheesecakes are just adorable! They are perfect for Valentine's Day. The other day our cat got in the dog's bed. It reminded me of a cute video I once saw called Cats Stealing Dog Beds. Emily's house looks beautiful. She is a VERY talented designer. I like the antique dressers, the ladder, and the pantry door. Enjoy your birthday celebration, Jane!

Sonia said...

First of all Happy 29th Birthday Jane! Did I win? Glad you were able to spend time with your daughter even if it was to just do laundry! How nice that you didn't have to go to a laundromat. Can't wait to see your new furniture...better to wait to get what you love. since it will be around for awhile. I'm sure your patience will pay off! Stay warm!
Miss Bloomers

Lisa @ Texas Decor said...

Happy Birthday!!! Hope you have a wonderful time! Those cupcakes look divine! I love pretty much anything with cream cheese in it. I really like Emily's new island, and yes, she should definitely start a blog. :)

farmhouse-story said...

happy bday, jane! don't know your age but, you look fabulous:)

Betsy Brock said...

Happy Happy Birthday!!!

How old? Um....47. :)

Love the lovely little treats...adorable!

And the dog food can is great....I have our cat food in a huge glass container on the floor...and yeah, it stays out all the time, too. lol....

Lori said...

Happy Birthday Janie!! Hope you have a day full of your favourite things! Love the cupcakes ~ I think I may have to try that recipe. xo

It's me said...

Happy birthday darling...may your day be filled with love joy and hapiness.....i want those cupcakes now !!!!...hmmmmmm...love Ria...x !!

Balisha said...

A very frustrating weekend...I've changed my name and blog. Please come visit.
http://simplybalisha.blogspot.com/

Balisha

Cathy @ My 1929 Charmer said...

you've been busy, sorry you have to wait longer for your washer and dryer! Love you couch by the way. I want one of those cupcakes they look so pretty. Have you heard of the natural sweetener Stevia? It's great, no calories, doesn't raise blood sugar, natural and is sweeter than regular sugar. They even sell it in packets at Aldi's and Homegoods! Nice bed for your Layla even if she doesn't stay there. I miss our Bo so! Your daughters house is pretty, and yes tell her to start her own blog! Stay safe in this snow, and a very Happy birthday! Since i have never met you I'm guessing 48 (don't be mad is I guessed too high)!

Debby said...

Happy Birthday.
You have so much fun with Emily. Love her cute house. I may copy what she did with the ladder. Emily wish you were closer to help me move things around.
You are getting blasted with snow once again. We have had a couple days off. We had flakes yesterday but nothing really.
Layla looks like you caught her at something.
We have to live many years with our furniture decisions so why not be happy with them. Good for you.

Donna said...

Those cupcakes look delish, Jane! And I am loving your daughter's home, I think she inherited your decorating gene:) Looks like your fur babies are going to get lost in that big new doggie bed!

thistlewoodfarm said...

Hope you had a wonderful birthday today! The recipe looks delicious....and healthy, too!

Happy day!
karianne

Melanie said...

Those little cheesecakes with the heart strawberries on top are not only perfect for Valentine's Day, but they look so spring-like, too. So maybe by you making those, it's a sign that spring isn't too far off. We can only dream...

Waving hello to Emily...your house is so cute and charming. Love your antique furniture and how you decorate! Yes, you should start your own blog! :-)

I hope you're having a fantastic birthday. xoxo

Lulu said...

The good thing about small bites is you feel less guilty about eating lots of them! I have a thing for ladders, so I like the way you've used one in the bedroom.

Kelly said...

Those strawberry desserts look good! They look so pretty too. So sorry that you weren't happy with all of your furniture choices. Hopefully, you'll find something else soon to allow you to finish the room soon.

Tammy@T's Daily Treasures said...

Jane, you make me laugh. Out loud sometimes. Your book review sounded pretty good to me. And you are great at sharing your feelings and emotions and thoughts. That little Layla is just the sweetest thing. Those cupcakes are are very pretty. I gave up dairy last April and have never felt better. Plus, even though I wasn't trying, I lost weight and am able to maintain without a problem. Eating whole and healthy is easy once you set your mind to it and are ready to make the changes. :) Emily's house is lovely. Hi Emily, listen to your mother and start a blog. :) Best wishes, Tammy

Teresa said...

Oh those little cheesecakes look delicious! I would probably eat about ten of them at a sitting though. I have no cheesecake self control!
Hope you are having a wonderful weekend.
xoxo,
Teresa

Teresa said...

Oh, and I have that book on a library hold, but I honestly don't know if I'm going to be able to read it. I'm desperately trying to avoid the ugly cry these days.
:)

Gypsy Heart said...

LOVE the mini desserts! I so wish I had one right now. You have had a really busy time...but then I think you always do. :) Emily's home is beautiful! She has a real talent for decorating.

I'm glad you didn't settle with the furniture. Things cost so much now and it's just not worth it to have something you're not totally happy with. Can't wait to see the new things!

Hope you have a wonderful birthday and celebrate BIG!

xo
Pat

My Little Home and Garden said...

Happy Birthday, Jane. It sounds like you have plenty of things on the go these days.

The little cupcakes with the heart shaped berries are certainly pretty!

Karen

Linda said...

Happy Birthday, JANE!!
Get a Blog, EMILY!!!
Love you both!!!

Something Nice and Pretty said...

Hi Jane, please tell Emily that if she blogs I'll be a follower, her home is adorable.
My husband would love those cupcakes so I might surprise him♥

I think that you are going to be 49...Happy Birthday!

Julie Marie said...

Hope you had a wonderful birthday Jane... your treats looks delish. And sweet little Layla looks adorable. xoxo Julie Marie

chateau chic said...

Jane, those mini cupcakes that look adorable would not last long at my house! What a treat to get to spend time at your daughter's. She has done such a lovely job to make her home so warm and inviting...you should be proud, and brag...nothing wrong with that.
I always enjoy your visits, and your comments brighten my day!
Mary Alice

Cindy (Applestone Cottage) said...

OH Jane,
I missed your b-day? So sorry girlfriend, Happiest of Birthdays to you.
I think you are 52?
Love the doggy bed.
And your daughter has a wonderfully decorated home.
That future nursery will be so cute!
I am still trying to recuperate from my trip. I am just so very tired.
Taking my Mom was wonderful, but also kind of hard.
I can't to hear about what your up to for your b-day too. Oh and this weather, I am so ready for it to be done.
Take care,
Hugs,
Cindy

Balisha said...

My goodness so many comments.
The cupcakes are so pretty... Love the picture of your Layla in the wrong bed. Our little dog used to hold his paw up like that, when he was nervous. So cute..
Your comment about the W+D was so true. We often complain and then think back to what our mothers and grandmothers had to deal with...we should be so thankful.
Nice that you have your daughter handy and don't have to go to the laundromat.Isn't it fun to see her ways of doing things? Must be nice living so close.
Have a nice evening...Balisha

Doreen@foxdenrd said...

Well, I've been unable to reply on blogs due to Internet issues while at the cabin, and don't I feel guilty now! So sorry I missed your 39th birthday Jane ;). I hope you had a lovely day and if you haven't already done so, have a few more of those yummy looking treats. You deserve it!

Art and Sand said...

So fun to read all the little crazy things happening in your life.

love the little deserts . . . love the concept of talking about our joys instead of problems.

Debbie said...

Hi Jane!! I've kind of been on a blog break...so I've missed so many of your posts.
Your little cupcakes look wonderful!
So sorry your furniture didn't work out for you. I'm glad you sent it back, instead of keeping something you wouldn't be happy with, though.
I hope you had a fun 29th birthday!!!
I'm determined to seek out the joy in 2014, also. Sometimes I have to remind myself that it's a decision...and not just a feeling!!
Love to you my sweet friend.
xo

Traci said...

The cup cakes look so good & they're adorable! Emily looks to be an amazing decorator. Everything you show looks so homey & welcoming. I read that book last week. SO so so good!

GLENDA CHILDERS said...

I love the way the strawberries are heart shaped. So cute.

Okay, Emily, I throw in my vote for you starting a blog. :)

I loved Fault in the Stars.

Fondly,
Glenda

must love junk said...

I enjoyed seeing some of your daughter's home! And those little cupcakes look divine :)
Susan

Val said...

I made little strawberry cheesecakes like that for my dad's retirement party a few years back. I love the Tulip papers/liners you used on yours. I've seen those and haven't treated myself to them yet. So pretty! :) And they do cheer up winter days, yes. ♥

Anonymous said...

I think I need to make those little cupcakes for Valentine's....don't you? Always love reading your journal Jane! I think I missed your birthday....I know it was a good one. Happy happy belated xoxoxo

Theresa said...

YUM, those look SO tasty:) I am SO excited to see some of your Daughter's gorgeous home! I love SO much of it but that ladder just standing there looking SO PRETTY! OH MY! Enjoy your day dear friend, happy that you sent the items packing that you weren't happy with! It is even worse when you TRY to love something and never do:) HUGS!

Maggie said...

Jane, you know how much I love to visit and catch up on all the news, well today's was a one of the best!
Love the mini cakes, (what a great treat for a Valentine)Emily's artwork on the door and the naughty Layla in the "Milo bed" shot was so cute.
Happy Birthday sweet lady, 21 again, huh?

Sherry @ Thrift My House said...

Beautiful little baby cheesecakes. And YES, Emily should start a blog. She has really good taste. I love her hardwood floors! Gorgeous! I hope you had a GRAND BIRTHDAY! You deserve it! Can't wait to hear what you guys did. Hope you find some tables that you like, I know that can be irritating. I've been looking for light fixtures for the bathroom for a while now...
Talk soon, have an awesome day!

Knitty said...

I was in your shoes in December regarding the washer, dryer and rescheduled deliveries. We canceled our order and bought them elsewhere with a next day delivery.

Thanks for suggesting Retail-Me-Not in a comment to me. I've been using them for quite some time. The last time I ordered bedding from Penney's, I split the order up to make the most out of various deals. Crazy that it had to be done that way, but the savings was worth it.