etsy find: char's bead creations

Dangly statement earrings are all the rage this spring and Char's Bead Creations has a huge collection of fantastic chandelier designs made from woven thread. They are lightweight and swingy and look fabulous with jeans and a tee. I love that they don't get caught in my hair like beaded styles. There are lots of cute earrings available but is the unique and colorful thread designs that really set this shop apart.

monkey see, monkey do

If your little monkey loves animals half as much as mine does then you must pick up a set of these monkey doorhangers from The Container Store. They come in sets of three and are available in pink, green and brown and are on sale for $6.99.

tub o' fun

I have been hanging on to some empty oatmeal containers while I search for the perfect use. After Little Man and the cats broke my bamboo floor vase it dawned on me--fill the tub with rocks and branches for a spring arrangement.

I painted the canister with three layers of white acyclic paint and a medium-sized artist's brush. It took about 30 minutes for each layer to set and I left the final coat to dry overnight. At this point you can leave it white, paint it another color or attach paper or other decorations.

Drop in a few branches or dried flowers and, voila, spring has sprung! When the pussy willows are no longer seasonal I am going to try putting inside a plastic cup of water and some long stemmed flowers. Even if it gets knocked over the only cleanup is a minor water spill.

eat your greens

Little Man has always been a bit skeptical of broccoli (or any green thing that isn't a pea). So I was thrilled when he wolfed down a big helping of broccoli casserole and asked for more. The savory custard base works best on pre-cooked vegetables if they are crunchy but in a serious time crunch you could add a bit of water and cook for a few minutes longer.

Mix together:

* 1 cup whole milk
* 1/2 cup heavy cream
* 1 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
* 2 large eggs

and pour over one bunch of broccoli (about 1.5 pounds).

Top with:
* 1 cup coarse fresh bread crumbs
* 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

Bake at 350°F until the custard sets, about 30 minutes.