Spring To Do List

Spring is finally in the air, spring is springing, if you will. And even though I actually really enjoyed winter this year, I am more than ready to welcome spring with open arms as it’s one of my very favorite seasons. Everything just feels so new and fresh, the days are longer, and the air is crisp.

So in honor of this lovely new season, I was inspired to make a little list of things that I want to do this spring. Hope you enjoy! :)

Make Gradient Cake -

So #1 on the list is a smidge ambitious, and makes me a little nervous seeing as how I’ve never worked with fondant before. Heck, I’m barely learning how to pipe frosting correctly. But I cannot resist the urge to make this amazing Gradient Cake. I fell head over heels in love with it when I saw the lovely video of Ashley from the blog, Not Without Salt, making it months ago now. I seriously think I replayed the video at least 50 times, I was enthralled. Okay, maybe that’s a little dramatic lol, but I found it really magical and have longed to try my hand at it ever since.

Now, I have heard people say that working with fondant can be somewhat frustrating … so I have no illusions that it won’t try my patience a little. But I am determined. Ashley must be a pro because she makes it look so simple and seamless. Somehow have a feeling it won’t be exactly like that when I make it. ;)

And is this cake, with it’s colors of white and pink, not perfect for a spring party? If there was ever a season for it, it’s this one! :)

Learn How To Use Espresso Machine -

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Isn’t this pink espresso machine to die for?! Sadly, my espresso machine is not near as fancy (but it’s the dream), it’s fairly basic… and okay, technically, it’s my sister’s lol. But hey, while it’s still living in my kitchen cabinet and she has no interest in using it, I’m calling it mine. ;) She got it for Christmas a few years ago and we named it… Pierre, I think lol. We used it once or twice, got frustrated with it, and haven’t touched it since. And it’s a shame, if you ask me. So I intend to rectify that and start learning how to use it properly.

I’ve been really into making fancy homemade coffee drinks lately and I’ve been using the Starbucks Via packets to make them. It’ll be nice to brew my own espresso shots for my homemade Salted Caramel Mochas (Oh yes, recipe to come, my friends!).

Learn To Sew -

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I never thought I’d care to learn how to sew, actually never really thought I’d have the patience lol. But lately seeing all the cute projects on Pinterest that require sewing, it’s convincing me to finally pick up a needle and thread and get to work. For instance, these adorable plush owls are calling my name!

Owl DIY

I have a small obsession with all things owl and really want to make one of these cuties. Don’t know if they’d be too hard for a beginner but maybe with a little sewing knowledge and some patience it’ll be doable.

Kinda nervous about trying my hand at it, but really, I don’t need to be some super sewing diva; just knowledgeable enough to be able to sew an owl and I’m happy! That’s the goal. :) 

Work On New Craft Projects -

So I have a confession to make, lately I have become what I never thought I would be… I’ve become crazy, obsessed crafter girl. Seriously, it’s starting to get a smidge out of hand… where I’m starting to look at random objects and thinking “Hmm, wonder how I could use this for crafting” lol. Yes, I think I need help. ;)

It’s been a really great way to relax, get my mind off things, and be creative. I’m actually planning to post a blog soon with photos of all the little projects I’ve done thus far. There are so many more projects that I want to do… it makes a little giddy just thinking about the possibilities! Here are three projects that I plan to tackle next!

DIY Song Lyric Wall Art

Spring Wreath DIY

DIY Fabric Chandelier

Start Taking More Photos -

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… and get better at taking photos. I’ve never been much of a picture taker, my sister was the photographer in our family and was notorious for always having a camera in her hand. But when I started blogging a few years ago I started wanting to take photos of all the recipes I posted. But I was pretty bad at it, so I started using other people photos (always giving the credit of course) majority of the time. But that just feels so impersonal, you know? If it’s my blog I want the content to be mostly mine.

Over the years I think I’ve gotten a little bit better at taking pictures but I still have so much to learn. Again, not looking to be super photographer girl but just be able take good photos for my blog. So I want to start taking more photos of my recipes, crafts, and just everyday life. And also reading more about photography, learning little tips and tricks.

This post, “How to take your best pictures ever” by Violet of the blog, Blythe Ponytail Parades, has some really awesome tips on photography. She also has some great blogging tips, here!

Make Macarons -

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Okay, so some of the things on this list are a little ambitious, are they not? lol Yes, I plan to attempt and hopefully master the intimidating yet oh so lovely macaron! Am a little afraid of them, I must admit, as they seem quite temperamental. You know, they have to have “feet” and all. But I’m up for the challenge! I really want to make both the pink macarons above (they’re so pretty!) and the yummy looking chocolate ones below!

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Wish me luck! And if any of you reading this have successfully made macarons and have any tips for a beginner like me, please share! :)

Have a Picnic -

 

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I haven’t been on a picnic in ages! But the thought of one, especially like this whimsical & lovely one in the photo below, makes me smile. And spring is the perfect time for a picnic!

It’s the perfect time to pack a picnic basket with goodies, spread out a gingham blanket, eat sandwiches, drink lemonade out of mason jars and maybe have some macarons for dessert. :)  All while talking and laughing with good friends, enjoying the lovely spring weather.

How about it? You bring the sandwiches and I’ll bring the macarons? ;) 

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Hope you’ve enjoyed my little list of spring “to dos”! Will report back about my progress… especially about the Gradient Cake and macarons. Though I’m warning you, results could be disastrous; but I will post anyhow. Because really, either way, it’ll still be entertaining,  right? ;)

Anything you're looking forward to doing this spring?