Mistletoe Ranch Kids

2011-07-31T15:32:00.000-07:00

Planning on taking the family on a Disney Cruise? Looking for high quality custom made Disney Cruise custom clothing for children? Well look no further....Mistletoe Ranch Kids Boutique will custom create outfits for your little ones. Take a look at our Cruise Vacation items available in my Etsy store....
http://www.etsy.com/people/MistletoeRanchKids?ref=ls_profile

http://www.etsy.com/listing/74554189/boutique-disney-cruise-wear-white-sailor

http://www.etsy.com/listing/74550637/boutique-mickey-mouse-applique-t-shirt

Now through the end of August 2011, receive free shipping on any two items purchased from my Etsy store.....just use this coupon code at checkout:

ANY2SHIPFREE

http://www.etsy.com/listing/77536647/boutique-disney-cruise-theme-custom-made

Priceless Memories deserve wonderful outfits!

http://www.etsy.com/listing/77536647/boutique-disney-cruise-theme-custom-made

Mistletoe Ranch Kids Etsy Store Coupon Codes

2011-04-24T12:18:00.000-07:00

Coupon code for Mistletoe Ranch Kids Etsy store....First time ever, receive 15% off custom couture gowns and custom created Magical vacation wear now through

April 30, 2011.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/73698374/princess-tiana-gown-princess-couture

http://www.etsy.com/listing/74550637/boutique-mickey-mouse-applique-t-shirt?ref=em

Come visit my Etsy store and use the coupon code: facebook15

http://www.etsy.com/listing/73697442/princess-belle-gown-princess-couture?ref=v1_other_2

Plan early....Order your custom Disney wear now for summer vacations.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/74554189/boutique-disney-cruise-wear-white-sailor

Mistletoe Ranch Kids Etsy store reopens. new designs: Disney Cruise Wear, Princess Belle Gown added to the Princess Couture Collection

2011-03-13T11:07:00.000-07:00

Your little girl will be the cutest one on board Disney Cruise Line in this sweet little "Sailor dress Whites" set.

"Sailor Dress Whites" 5 piece set, includes: Sailor top, full circle skirt, one pair of hair bows, and a petite sailor hat with mouse cruise embroidery.

The Petite sailor hat is available in your choice of 2 sizes.....coming soon to my ETSY store, watch for it!

Bon Voyage!

Minnie Mouse inspired "Sailor dress Whites" perfect for your next Disney Cruise Line adventure.....coming soon to my Etsy Store

Princess Belle Gown
newest addition to the "Princess Couture Collection"

Well I just re-opened my ETSY store after a little break. Come by and take a look at my newest Princess Dresses.

http://www.etsy.com/shop/mistletoeranch?ref=pr_shop_more

Twirling in a Princess gown with Princess Tiana...a dream come true!

I will be adding more gowns to the "Princess Couture Collection" within the next couple of weeks. I will also be adding new items to the ready to ship Magical vacation category. Here is a little peek at what I have added to the Etsy store, and what is soon to be added to my store.

This beautiful gown would be perfect for Formal night dinner.
http://www.etsy.com/listing/67105331/disney-belle-gown-princess-couture

Disney Boutique Tinkerbell Applique Skirt and T-shirt Etsy listing

2010-06-13T11:09:00.000-07:00

I have been busy at the embroidery machines again...Come take a look at my ETSY store to see what is new.

I have more Mickey and Minnie Mouse Embroidery Applique designs.

New ready to ship items that include FREE SHIPPING

Cherry theme Mickey Mouse Applique available as a custom made T-shirt.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/49355130/boutique-mouse-applique-t-shirt-july-4th

Boutique Applique Mickey Mouse Patriotic tank top perfect for your 4th of July Disney trip...ready to ship....Custom sizes available too! http://www.etsy.com/listing/49348510/patriotic-july-4th-mouse-applique-tank

One of a Kind Tie-Dye Mickey Mouse Peace Sign Applique Tank top....ready to ship

http://www.etsy.com/listing/49357189/boutique-peace-mickey-mouse-applique-tie

Take a look at the latest ready to ship boutique items in my Etsy store....These items include FREE SHIPPING!

http://www.etsy.com/shop/mistletoeranch?section_id=7054183

Many Mouse Applique designs to choose from...If you are interested in having a Custom Applique shirt made please convo me via ETSY to explore the possiblities.

http://www.etsy.com/shop/mistletoeranch

Just listed in my Etsy store....Ready to ship Tinkerbell appliqued mini skirt and T-shirt in toddler size 3T. If you need a different size, please convo me through etsy I am happy to make a custom size outfit for you.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/48061560/boutique-custom-applique-tinkerbell-mini

Disneyland Vacation custom outfits...Princess Tiana, Tinkerbell, and Mickey - Minnie Mouse Dots

2010-05-18T20:00:00.000-07:00

Do you have a Tinkerbell fan in your Family? Convo me via Etsy to have a custom creation made for your pixie fan!

Summer is upon us, and so is Vacation time....our favorite Vacation Destination here at the Mistletoe Ranch is Disneyland!

Special vacation trips require special outfits for Kambria....

Disco Dot Mickey and Minnie Mouse 2-piece swing top short set...coming soon to my etsy store:

http://www.etsy.com/shop/mistletoeranch

Even the back side of "Minnie Skirts" can be embellished!

The Hot Pink and Black color combination is a favorite of Kambria's

I just love visiting Disneyland. We spent Mother's Day weekend enjoying the sunshine at Disneyland. Of course, whenever we go to the "Happiest Place on Earth" Kambria has to have something new to wear. Here is a little peek at what I created for her.
Just listed this beautiful Couture Gown on Etsy....see below for the direct link.

Princess Tiana meets the little Princess Tiana!

http://www.etsy.com/listing/47918613/boutique-custom-princess-tiana-couture

Princess Tiana meets Snow White

Princess Tiana meets Cinderella....Kambria told Cinderella that she loved her blue dress...I think this just may be the next gown I create for Kambria.

Princess Tiana meets Princess Aurora, Sleeping Beauty

Custom made Princess gowns can make any Disney Character meet and greet extra special!

If you are interested in special ordering any of the outfits you see here, please messege me on facebook via my fan page for Mistletoe Ranch Kids. Follow the link below to get connected with me. Try the link to my Etsy store too!

http://www.etsy.com/shop/mistletoeranch

http://www.facebook.com/?sk=ru#!/pages/Mistletoe-Ranch-Kids-Boutique/43931664134

Thanks for stopping by, and be sure to check back in the coming weeks for more...

Back soon with new Designs

2010-01-24T09:30:00.000-08:00

Hi there! Oh it has been a while since I have updated my blog....I promise I will be back soon with a new post showcasing upcoming designs...just waiting for photos...Watch for it...coming soon....Ready to ship....fun new "Feliz" dresses for Valentine's Day, Mardi Gras, "Fancy Nancy" Party dress and New Disney Princess "Tiana"....Check back soon....Here is a peek at what I have been up to.....

Kambria just loves having her picture taken with the Disney characters

Kambria wears her new Minnie Mouse Feliz Chirstmas dress and dances with Minnie Mouse

Kambria meets the newest Disney Princess " TIANA"...after this meeting, Kambria asked if I could make her a dress like Princess Tiana's.....check back to see what I am creating for her.

Kambria hams it up with Chip and Dale

Minnie Mouse and Kambria had such a great time together.

Kambria and Pluto, nose to nose.

Kambria meets Minnie Mouse again in the California Adventure Park.

Santa Claus and Kambria visit at the Grand Californian Hotel. This is my favorite place to stay at Disneyland.

I just love the way this Feliz dress turned out. I must say this is one of my favorite patterns.

Kambria wearing her Pink and Black Jack Skellington twirl dress. She just loved meeting Woody...hmmm, he has a new movie coming out this summer....I'll have to make a new outfit for Kambria when we go see the movie.

We had a great time at Halloween in Disneyland.

Kambria and Katiana posing with Halloween Mickey and Minnie. Katiana dressed as Vidia the fairy and Kambria went as the Queen of Hearts.

Just a few of my favorite listings...ETSY:Candy clippies, EBAY:sweet floral knot dress

2009-07-12T13:50:00.000-07:00

I was searching for Candy accessories to go with an outfit for my little Kambria....Take a look at what I found on ETSY. I just had to share this wonderful find here. Everything this seller makes looks so delicious! Take a look for yourself...this designers work is AMAZING!

I can't wait to get my order from her...check back to see what I am working on to coordinate with these tasty clippies!

http://www.daisyrosesb.etsy.com/

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=27708046

I also must share this adorable knot dress by my friend, Heather, the designer for Kaytes*Kloset. What is not to love about this dress! I love the floral print fabric, the little hat, and the vintage handkerchief apron. There is no reserve on this auction, get in on this auction now! This is the perfect dress for a sweet little summer portrait. This is truly a one of a kind dress, Beautiful work Heather!

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&item=120445588713

Boutique custom Fancy Nancy Euro inspired "Feliz" dress

2009-06-06T14:43:00.000-07:00

June is the time for Graduations...my sweet little Kambria just graduated from Junior Kindergarten. Of course we had to have a fancy dress for the occasion. The "Feliz" dress pattern, is perfect for a "Fancy Nancy" dress.

Maybe you know the kind of dress I am talking about...lots of ruffles, bright colors, full of twirl, something that says, "this is a special day!"

My little girl just loves bright colors, lots of them all together in one outfit. This dress was no exception, Kambria picked out her coordinating fabrics from my fabric stash. Here is a peek at what I put together for her special day.

We decided not to wear the pettiskirt on this day, since her graduation celebration included an introduction to the "big kids" playground known as "Camelot". Kambria did not want to get her "Fancy-Nancy Pettiskirt" caught on the playground equipment. We will be shooting more pictures of this outfit with the pettiskirt in next few days.

Kambria's teacher, Miss Monica, also informed the children that they would need safe and sturdy footwear to play on "Camelot" so Kambria opted to wear her soft pink converse high tops to complete the ensemble. (Ensemble, is a fancy word for outfit!)

We will shoot more pictures for the ebay and etsy listings later in the week. If you are interested in having this dress custom made for your little girl, please contact me, as I will only be creating a few of these dresses.

I really like how the appliques turned out. They are so very detailed and coordinate nicely with the "Fancy Nancy" print fabric. I think this would make a very special Birthday dress for any little girl, especially if you were hosting a "Fancy Nancy" themed party.

I will be listing this dress custom made in sizes 2T through girls size 6x on ebay and etsy in next few days.

Amy Butler print Canine Couture double dog dare to be different Matching outfits for little girls and their 4 legged friends. Art of the Craft Studios

2009-05-16T13:51:00.000-07:00

As many of you know, I belong to a few design groups on EBAY. I have had the opportunity to get to know some really creative people in these groups. This post highlights one of those artists who like her designs is truly "One Of A Kind"....Take a look at these pics, and you will see what I mean.

You just have to check out her ME page on ebay:

http://members.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewUserPage&userid=artofthecraftstudios

It's just too bad that my energetic German Shepard won't allow us to dress her in such a cute little outfit. I am sure my girls would love to dress her up like this!

Wouldn't this make the cutest little portrait set?

Okay, now that I have teased you with the pictures of these super cute outfits, you might be asking, " Where can I find these to purchase?"

I am just doing my little bit as an American Citizen to help the economy....here ya go! Click on the links below, to check out Gioncarla's Ebay auctions.

Canine Couture:http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=290317389251&sspagename=STRK%3AMESELX%3AIT&viewitem=&salenotsupported

The little girl's outfit:http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=290317437795&sspagename=STRK%3AMESELX%3AIT&viewitem=&salenotsupported

Gioncarla, "Your designs ROCK"

Mistletoe Ranch Kids - Minnie Dot - Mouse Applique twirl dress on Ebay

2009-05-16T08:29:00.000-07:00

I have this sweet Minnie Dot twirl dress ending today!
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=160334191591

Kambria's Village Studio Easter Photo with the live baby lamb

2009-04-11T23:07:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter

Here is a peek at Kambria's Village Studio Easter photo. Yes, that is a live baby lamb! Kambria just loved the little lamb, she even gave it sweet little kisses. The folks at Village Studio are very talented. The staff there is very friendly, and their work, is nothing less than AMAZING!

Take a look at their blog, and you will see what I mean....

http://villageportraits.info/blog/

What will we be serving for Easter Dinner at the Mistletoe Ranch? Wild Turkey Anyone???

2009-03-30T13:42:00.000-07:00

What will we be serving for Easter Dinner at The Mistletoe Ranch?

Wild Turkey Anyone???

I came home from dropping the kids at school this morning, and this little guy was just walking around our driveway admiring the wild flowers. So I went to grab my camera...

I guess these wild turkeys must know they are safe here at the Mistletoe Ranch. They seem to not be too afraid that they might end up as the special guest at Easter Dinner.
I think that I will order a Honey baked Ham to serve for Easter Dinner. This guy looks like too much trouble to prepare.

New ETSY listing! Cat Hat twirl dress with apron

2009-03-22T13:15:00.000-07:00

Just listed in my Etsy store. Come take a peek!

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=22634990

Cat in the Hat Custom Twirl Dress with apron

2009-03-12T19:17:00.000-07:00

Sorry that I have not been very attentive to my blog lately...I will try to get caught up...

Trying to catch up a bit.....March 2, was Read America Day, commemorating the Birthday of

Theodore Gisele, better known as Dr. Seuss. A special day such as this deserves a special outfit of course. Here are some pictures showing Kambria in her "Cat in the Hat" outfit, complete with coordinating bows.

I have had this Dr Seuss character fabric for some time now, just waiting for the right design. Kambria helped to pick out the coordinating fabrics, she is really into the polka dots lately. This design certainly is colorful and fun, just like my little Kambria. She enjoyed showing off her outfit to the other classes at school with our principle Dr Amadio...I understand that Dr Amadio loves to see Kambria's custom made outfits. Hmmm, I wonder if Dr Amadio would wear a custom outfit like this.....hmmmm. I will have to ask her. As promised, here are some pictures of my little cutie!

Kambria enjoys clowning for the camera.

This dress is full of twirl

Beautiful sights on my commute to town, Covered bridges, Oak trees, blue skies, snow dusted mountain tops, moss covered granite boulders

2009-02-14T16:33:00.000-08:00

I am very lucky to have such a beautiful commute. Here are a few pictures I took the other day on my way to town to pick the kiddos up at school.

I have a little bit of a commute to town. I thought I might share some pictures of what I see everyday on my commute to town. At times I wish that I did not live so far out of town. Then I think if I lived in town, I would miss out on these beautiful sights that I take in every day on my way up and down the hill to town. As I drive these mountain roads I listen to NPR, national public radio. NPR is the perfect pairing for my scenic drive.

The Covered Bridge off highway 168

I have always thought it would be cool to have this as the entrance to my drive way. I wonder how many other covered bridges are in Fresno County?

Beautiful blue sky through a majestic Pine tree.

Huge granite out croppings make the landscape around here very interesting.

Green Pasture with several different Oak tree species.

This Oak tree is just one of many I pass on my drive to town. I think Oak trees are wonderfully interesting with their curved and twisted branches.

Below you can see the moss covered Granite boulders amidst the dormant poison oak. YIKES! I will stay out of there!

I can almost imagine little forest fairies living in here.

I hope you enjoyed my little photo adventure today. I will be adding more later, so check back!

Father - Daughter Dance: 50's sock hop, custom made poodle skirts, car hop costume and more!

2009-02-11T12:24:00.000-08:00

Flashback to the 1950's....Our school hosts a Father - Daughter Dance every year. This year's theme was a 1950's Sock Hop. Naturally, I had to custom make outfits for my 2 girls.

Katiana chose the traditional poodle skirt, with a twist....She wanted a Cat on her skirt instead of a Poodle! I always tell my children, "It's okay to be different, everyone is an individual", so Katiana's skirt was appliqued with a black kitty cat instead of a poodle.

Kambria chose a 50's "Car-Hop" costume complete with black and white checkered hat and matching collared shirt. Kambria wore one of her pettiskirts underneath the full-circle pink satin skirt. To complete her outfit I added a cute little apron complete with pink and white poodle applique.

I also had the opportunity to create matching Mother and Daughter poodle skirts for my friend Sharla and her adorable daughter Gigi.

I made their poodle skirts out of hot pink satin. I think the color is perfect for this fun loving family.

I made several different Poodle Skirts for other girls at the school. I had so much fun creating these skirts. I will most definitely offer these Poodle skirts on Etsy and Ebay, especially once I start with Halloween 2009 costumes.

Are you interested in a custom created outfit for a portrait or pageant???

Please contact me, I just love creating custom outfits.

More pictures of custom outfits by "Mistletoe Ranch Kids" coming soon!

Blackberry Mickey Mouse Waffles: Breakfast for the Mistletoe Ranch Kids

2009-02-01T16:21:00.000-08:00

Well, it is the weekend again, and that means spending time with family at a nice relaxing breakfast. This past Saturday we enjoyed "Blackberry Mickey Mouse Waffles" with a fair amount of whipped cream, it is the weekend after all!

I have learned from experience that a four year old will need the dietary guidance of an adult when powdered sugar and whipped cream are involved. In this instance, the resident "Dad" at the Mistletoe Ranch does not qualify as an adult. He must also have assistance when preparing a waffle, to prevent the over use of whipped cream! See example below!

This is how our waffles looked, smiling up at us from the plate just before they were covered in yummy whipped cream, blackberries, fresh homemade blackberry syrup, and powdered sugar.

First we began with a little whipped cream....

okay, maybe just a little more whipped cream...

Maybe a tiny bit more whipped cream so the berries will stay put....

Ooooh, don't these Blackberries look delicious. I purchase these at Trader Joe's, they always have the best fresh fruit.
You have to have someone sample the berries, to make sure they are ripe... Oh, here is a lucky volunteer!

This little volunteer taster, needs to go have her hair put up in a ponytail, and I think she will need a bib too!

That is much better! It makes the clean up easier after breakfast. We won't have to use the power washer!

Yummy!

Sunday Morning!!!

Sunday morning we had scones.

I baked a fresh batch of "Orange infused Dark Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Scones" This recipe was inspired by my love of dark chocolate. This is definitely a weekend recipe, since I could not feed my kiddos chocolate then send them to school.

This delicious adventure began with an oatmeal scone recipe....I like to think that a recipe is just a guide line. I like to change things up in recipes a bit, to suit my tastes. This recipe made 16 scones......

And then there were none!

I still need to work a bit on this recipe before I release it here. I want you to have the best possible result if you decide to give any of my recipes a try in your kitchen.

Finally, I am working on several sewing projects that I hope to feature here in the near future....hmmmm, maybe midweek......

Catching Up...More delicious pictures... Best Tamales Ever!

2009-01-24T14:55:00.000-08:00

I cannot let another day go by without sending a special "Thank You" to Sabina, for the best Tamales ever! I have never liked Tamales, until I tried the Tamales that Sabina makes. There is something about the way she prepares the masa that makes theses Tamales so yummy. Thank you Sabina, for the wonderful Tamales!

Weekend Breakfasts are one of my favorite meals to prepare. I enjoy the quiet relaxing mornings, at home with family. Stuffed French toast is a favorite breakfast treat around the Mistletoe Ranch. Here is a little glimpse at Mistletoe Ranch Stuffed French Toast with homemade blackberry sauce.

Persimmon Muffins: From Caroline's Kitchen at the Mistletoe Ranch

2009-01-10T16:10:00.000-08:00

My Parents came for dinner the other night. I made my famous "Kahlua-Glazed roast Turkey" complete with delicious velvet smooth gravy,(this Kahlua glaze makes the tastiest gravy). In fact, just about every side dish had a touch of Kahlua in it. I made "Kahlua Candied Yams", "Kahlua-Apricot-Sausage-Stuffing", and Kahlua Pumpkin Pie for dessert. Hmmm yummy! I also made Triple Cranberry-Orange relish, Steamed Green Beans, and "Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes".

My Dad brought some fresh nuts and fruit from the trees in his garden. He brought us Lemons, Pecans, and a "few" Persimmons. When my Dad says "a few" he means several dozen! So, I was trying to find some recipes that use persimmons....I rediscovered my favorite "Persimmon Muffin" recipe.

What do you make when your Dad brings you "a few" persimmons from his garden?

.....Why you make Persimmon Muffins!

So this morning, I enlisted the help of one of my cute little kitchen helpers and off we went to make muffins. I made a couple of cute little aprons at Christmas time. These cute little aprons have become the "must-have-fashion-accessory" for my little helplers! (see cute little model below). Kambria has become quite the enthusiastic pastry chef. Sometimes, she is a little too enthusiastic when she stirs, (we will have to work on that).

Here is a picture of our finished product.

A funny thing happened when we set them out on the table to cool for a bit...The muffin tops started to disappear! We had been struck by the "Muffin Top Thief"....no one has yet to come forward, and admit to doing it....but I think my smiling little kitchen helper may know something about it!

Here is the recipe, try them, they are really delicious!

Caroline's Mistletoe Ranch Persimmon Muffins

Ingredients

2 cups unbleached all purpose flour

¼ cup wheat germ
1 cup sugar
1 Tablespoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1 and ½ teaspoons nutmeg (fresh ground is best)
½ teaspoon ground allspice
¼ teaspoon ground cloves
1 cup persimmon puree (Use the pulp from 2-3 medium size, or 2 large size “Hachiya” Persimmons in blender and blend until smooth)
Finely grated zest of one large orange
2 large eggs, (lightly beaten)
½ cup buttermilk
½ cup melted butter
1 and ½ tablespoons real vanilla extract
1 cup golden raisins (optional)
1 cup chopped pecans (Thanks for the pecans, Dad!)

3 to 4 Tablespoons Turbinado Sugar (optional, but looks like edible glitter for baked treats!)

Directions
Preheat oven to 375°
Fill 14-16 standard muffin tins with paper liners, (I like to assign this task to my little helper)
In a generously sized bowl (sized appropriately to accommodate enthusiastic mixing provided by little helpers!), mix together dry ingredients; the flour, wheat germ, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ground cloves, and allspice.
In a large bowl, (I use a batter bowl for easy pouring) combine the wet ingredients; persimmon puree, orange zest, eggs, buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Now add the dry ingredients into the batter bowl with the wet ingredient mixture and stir with a large wooden spoon until smooth.
At this point you may add the optional ingredients if desired; golden raisins, and/or chopped pecans and stir until incorporated into the batter.
Fill the muffin cups almost to the top of the papers. Sprinkle the muffins with tubinado sugar if desired.
Bake in a preheated 375 degree oven for 17-20 minutes. Baking time may vary depending on your oven. Muffins are done when they spring back when lightly depressed in the center.
Remove muffin pans from the oven to cooling racks. Cool about 10 minutes and remove muffins to serving plate. Watch them disappear, and beware of the “Muffin Top Thief” The crunchy sweet tops are irresistible!

Now, what should I bake with Lemons?

Just listed on Etsy: Minnie Dot Twirl Dress

2009-01-10T15:17:00.000-08:00

Hello...I just wanted to share this new dress I listed on ETSY. This dress would be perfect for your next Mouse Vacation, or just as a fun addition to your little one's everday wardrobe. Comfortable cotton fabric by Michael Miller cut on the bias add a "super-twirl" effect to this cute T-shirt dress. Jumbo rick rack accents add whimsy to this cute little dress. Available custom made in your choice of sizes from 2T through 6X.

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=19565947

Kambria just loves this polka dot fabric. This dress perfectly matches her favorite pair of Minnie Dot shoes by Puddle Jumper.

Coming Soon!.... Kambria's Fancy Nancy Dress-up outfit

2009-01-03T20:46:00.000-08:00

Click here to check out another of my Fancy Nancy creations:

http://mistletoeranchkids.blogspot.com/2009/06/boutique-custom-fancy-nancy-euro.html

Kambria received a few more Fancy Nancy Books for Christmas. She just loves the "Fancy Nancy" outfits illustrated in the books....So you can probably guess what I have been working on...feathers, lace, ruffles and sparkley baubles... I can tell you that I have been having a lot of fun working with Kambria to create an outfit for her with just the right amount of frill and fluff. She is my best customer!

I hope to have it finished in the next few days. So keep a watch out for my up coming post which will feature my favorite little "Fancy Kambria"

Christmas time home baked treats!

2008-12-26T21:36:00.000-08:00

One of our favorite Christmas Morning treats, fresh from the oven "Orange-Pecan-Cinnamon Rolls". I use my bread maker to mix the dough for this tasty treat. I usually have the dough set to go in the breadmaker, before we leave for Christmas Eve festivities at my Parents house. Then upon our return home later that evening, I just roll out the dough and prepare the Cinnamon rolls so they are ready to bake by morning. These Cinnamon Rolls have become a tradition in our house on Christmas morning. They are quite yummy, and they disappear quickly around here.

This is the third year that I have tried my hand at making Christmas Stollen. My Mom always makes this at Christmas time. She uses a very traditional German recipe for making Stollen. I believe her recipe has been handed down in her family for a number of generations.
I have taken the liberty to create my own "Stollen" recipe, meaning I took out the ingredients that I never cared for as a kid, and I have substituted in other tasty ingredients in their place. Traditional German Stollen for example, has raisins in it...Yuck! I always hated baked raisins as a kid, so I use dried cranberries instead, Yummy! I also don't care for those candied cherries, Yuck! I use finely chopped dried Apricots in their place, Yummy! Traditional German Stollen recipes use Cognac to soften the dried fruit, this year I discovered a far more tasty option....I used Butterscotch Schnapps to soften the dried fruit I used in my stollen this year...Hmmm, now that is yummy! I also add a tasty layer of Marzipan to the center of my Stollen. I just love Marzipan, it is especially delicious when baked into the Stollen. I love having a slice of Stollen with tea in the evening. My family enjoys my non-traditional "Stollen".

At Christmas time we bake a variety of goodies to share with friends and family. Here is a little sample of the yummy treats we have made this Christmas.

Here are a few more of our favorite treats to bake. I just love these Eggnog Spritz Cookies with coffee in the morning... hmmm, Yummy!

Lemon Bars are always a holiday favorite. My parents have a big lemon tree, and they are kind enough to share lemons with us. These lemon bars are quick and easy to make, they are so tasty too.

We also enjoy making Candies this time of year. Kurt makes this fabulous "Rain Forest Crunch". It is a buttery brittle candy that is filled with ingredients like, coconut, macadamia nuts, cashews, hazelnuts, almonds, and brazil nuts. This is one of my favorite Christmas time treats.

Blackberry Cheesecake Muffins and "Magic Reindeer Food"

2008-12-20T11:38:00.000-08:00

A little while back I promised to present you with my "Blackberry Cheesecake Muffin" recipe. I baked a batch of these yummy muffins this morning. I had to photograph them rather quickly, as they began to disappear from the basket so fast. My three (very) hungry children are on their Christmas vacation from school, so I will be baking yummy breakfast treats more often in the next couple of weeks. I really enjoy baking muffins and scones for breakfast, especially when we don't have to rush off in the morning. So for the next couple of weeks, I will start my day with a nice Hot Triple Cinnamon Cream Latte, and plan out my baking strategy for the day. Watch for more of my favorite recipes.

Here is the recipe for "Caroline's Mistletoe Ranch Blackberry Cheesecake Muffins"

Cheesecake topping:

Mix together one 8 0z package of cream cheese,(softened at room temperature) 3 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon unbleached flour, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, until smooth. Set this aside until ready to use.

For the muffins:

2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup butter

1 cup granulated sugar

2 eggs

1/2 cup milk

1 teaspoon real vanilla extract

1 pint size container of fresh blackberries (frozen will work in a pinch, but fresh works best)

In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder and salt. In a mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar. Add eggs, milk, and vanilla; mix well. Stir into the dry ingredients just until moistened. Carefully fold in the blackberries. Fill paper-lined muffin cups 2/3 full. Using a spoon, make a small well in the center of each muffin, this is where you will place the cheesecake mixture.

Add 1-2 tablespoons (depending on what will fit) of the cheesecake mixture to the well you created in each of the muffins. Reserve any left over cheesecake mixture for another batch of muffins. The cheesecake filling works great in Pumpkin Muffins too. Bake the muffins at 375 degrees for 15-20 minutes or until muffins test done. Cool in pan for 10 minutes before removing to a wire cooling rack.

Optional; Sprinkle the muffins with turbinado sugar. I consider turbinado sugar to be glitter for baked treats, it adds a little yummy sweetness and it is festive and pretty.

Enjoy these muffins with hot chocolate or coffee. Please refridgerate any left over muffins.

Here is a little craft that I would like to share, "Magic Reindeer Food"

This past week, I had the opportunity to share this little craft with my daughter Kambria's, Junior Kindergarten class. I had a fun time helping the kiddos make this simple little recipe. The children measured out their own ingredients, they did very well with this craft. I even made cute little bags with blue and white snowflake fabric, so we could wrap them up in something festive and cute. After all, "Presentation, is everything". A special thank you to Miss Monica, (Kambria's very hard working teacher) for allowing me to bring this fun recipe into the class to share.

Recipe for:
"Magic Reindeer Food"

2 tablespoons Oatmeal
1 dash of Red Sugar
1 dash of Green Sugar
1 Generous sprinkle of Blue Sparkle Glitter

Add ingredients to ziploc bag.
Carefully seal the ziploc bag, making sure it is completely closed.
Shake bag gently to mix ingredients together. If giving this a gift include the instructions listed below.

"Magic Reindeer Food"
Directions:
On Christmas Eve,
Sprinkle on the lawn at night,
The moon will make it sparkle bright.
As Santa's reindeer fly and roam,
This will guide them to your home.
Have a Merry Christmas!

Well, I am off to finish a few last minute Christmas gifts. Be sure and check back in a day or two to see what I have been up to.

Check out this adorable Custom Boutique Dress by Kaytes Kloset

2008-12-13T09:12:00.000-08:00

Here is a little treat...

I just had to share this adorable Dress available custom made for your little girl, by Heather of Kaytes*Kloset. I just love the colors on this set. The paisely print and rose print fabric come together beautifully. The classic details make this perfect for portraits, special occasions, and birthday parties. Just imagine your little cutie wearing this set for a tea party. This set also includes the super cute hat! The designer of this dress is one of my groupmates in Gigggles Boutique on ebay. Search GGBT on ebay for more of my fellow Giggles girls designs.

http://cgi.ebay.com/Custom-Boutique-Knot-Apron-Dress-SET-2-3-4-5-6-GGBT_W0QQitemZ120345511502QQihZ002QQcategoryZ163213QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

Disneyland at Christmas time

2008-12-07T17:30:00.000-08:00

I have not been very attentive to my blog....sorry for the long lapse in posting, but I was busy getting ready to go to Disneyland!

I love going to Disneyland at Christmas time.

Tinkerbell is currently one of Kambria's favorites. I cannot tell you how many times she has watched the new Tinkerbell video!

Of course when we go to Disneyland, I have to make custom outfits for my children who will still wear them. Kambria is my biggest fan of my custom made outfits. She always has more outfits to take, than she could possibly wear on our one week stay. She loves the attention she gets when people admire her outfits. She even strikes a few modeling poses when people inquire about her outfits. My husband says, I should have her pass out my business cards,( ha, ha!). This year, Kambria's favorite outfit was all about Tinkerbell. Kambria helped to pick out the colors and fabrics for this set. She just loves bright colors.

Keegan and Katiana will still wear something that subtly suggests Disneyland. I have to sneak Mickey Mouse head embroidery onto Keegan's shirts when he is not looking, and hide it back in his luggage when he is not aware of it. Katiana, still enjoys custom made outfits that don't scream Disney! She prefers classic simple details.

My babies are growing up.

Kambria has never met a baked treat that she did not like! These Disney treats were calling out to her!

Here are a few more pictures from our trip.

Kambria's "Fancy Nancy" inspired Birthday Cake

2008-11-10T12:15:00.000-08:00

Click this link to see another of my FANCY NANCY creations:
http://mistletoeranchkids.blogspot.com/2009/06/boutique-custom-fancy-nancy-euro.html

Anyone who knows me will tell you that I love baking! Birthdays are special occasions that I love to create yummy baked treats for. My children challenge my creative side with special Birthday cake requests. I enjoy expressing the artistic pastry chef in me, with whimsical and tasty treats.
Kambria is turning 4 this year, she asked for a "Fancy Nancy" birthday cake. Here is a peek at what I created for her. when she wakes up from her nap we will celebrate with this yummy pink cake.

I am glad I took the opportunity to take pictures of her cake while she is napping. Cakes are much easier to photograph that preschool age children. I have never had a problem with my cake holding still for a picture. Cakes are so much more cooperative, and they won't make funny faces at the camera.

Busy Halloween time behind me, I am back blogging again!

2008-11-08T13:02:00.000-08:00

Teachers are Special people and they deserve special baked treats!

2008-10-21T19:58:00.000-07:00

October was a busy month for me, with all of the costume orders I filled, but I made time to bake special treats for my childrens' teachers who had October Birthdays. I have a great appreciation for Teachers. They have one of the most challenging jobs around. My children have been very fortunate to have some of the greatest Teachers. Here is a little sample of the recent Birthday Treats I have baked for a few of our Amazing Teachers at St. Helen's School. Chocolate Cappuccino Cheesecake for my daughter Katiana's sixth grade teacher, Mr LeFay.

Kambria's Junior Kindergarten Teacher, Miss Monica, had a Birthday the end of September. Here is a little peek at the Birthday treat I baked for her.

2008-09-21T11:46:00.000-07:00

So this morning I ask my youngest, Kambria, what she would like for breakfast...."Sconces and a Mocha-Latte" she announces. Well, I don't really let allow my 3 year old to have a Mocha-Latte, it is the name I have given to the 'Hot Chocolate' she enjoys while I have my "Cinnamon Spice Latte". So I make her a hot chocolate and add some Cinnamon coffee creamer, then we head outside to sit and enjoy nature. The weather here has been cooling off quite a bit, so we have been enjoying our weekend mornings out on the deck with our "Lattes". We watch the wild turkeys roam across the lower part of our property. Every now and then, one of the male turkeys will flare his tail feathers, Kambria says "Now that's a real Turkey". The quail have been very active too in the mornings they are fun to watch. Kambria and I walk a little closer to try and get a picture. They see us, and then they scatter into the manzanita bushes. I have been trying to get a picture of the quail to send to my friend Judy, and the quail just won't cooperate. I think they are camera shy! I am sure they will return later, and I'll try with my camera again. They must know that they are safe at the Mistletoe Ranch, no hunters here, just photographers trying to 'shoot' their picture.

Time to move inside and bake those scones for Kambria. The rule in my house on weekends is first child to wake up, chooses the breakfast menu.....hmmmm Scones!!!

My other two children are awake now, and asking about breakfast. Kambria announces, "breakfast is ready, Mommy is taking the scones picture now". I don't always photograph what I bake, but I have been doing it a lot more lately.
So, here you go, this is my famous Mistletoe Ranch Blueberry-Almond Scone recipe, complete with pictures.

Mistletoe Ranch Blueberry Almond Scones

Description:
Delicious combination of Almond and Blueberry Flavors in a yummy breakfast scone…Watch as These Scones Quickly Disappear!

Cooking Time: Bake 12 to 15 minutes (may vary slightly, depending on your oven)

Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup Granulated Sugar
3 Tbsp. Ground Almonds

2 tsp. baking powder

1/4 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1/3 cup butter, sweet chilled
1 egg
2/3 cup Buttermilk (you will also use a small amount of buttermilk to brush the tops of scones)
2/3 cup dried blueberries
1 tsp. Almond Extract
2 Tbsp. Turbinado Sugar (also know as: Raw Cane Sugar) for the tops

Instructions:
Preheat oven to 400°F. In large mixing bowl sift together flour, sugar, ground almonds, powder, soda and salt. Using a pastry blender or the paddle on electric mixer, cut in butter until mixture is the size of course crumbs. Add dried blueberries and toss to coat. Make a well in the center and set aside. In small bowl blend egg, almond extract and buttermilk; add all at once to flour mixture. Mix just until moistened. Turn dough onto floured work surface and knead 10 to 12 times. I use the “fold over” method of kneading. Separate dough into 2 equal portions. Working with one portion at a time, gently pat the dough into a circle about 7 inches across. Using a chef’s knife, cut into 8 pie shaped wedges. Transfer the wedges to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Separate wedges by 1". Brush the tops of the scones with buttermilk and sprinkle with Turbinado Sugar. Bake 12 - 15 minutes. Place baked scones on a cooling rack. Let cool 5 minutes. Move to serving plate, stand back and watch them disappear!

Optional: Use Raw sliced Almonds to sprinkle on top of the scones after you brush them with buttermilk, and before you sprinkle the Turbinado sugar.

Aquamarine Mermaid Costume Listed

2008-09-20T10:56:00.000-07:00

This week has been super busy. I did not even do any baking this week. I promise a new recipe with a "delicious picture" for next week. Maybe I will bake the "Blackberry Cheesecake Muffins" I teased you about last week.

Well, I finally got my Mermaid Costume listed today. I am so happy with how it turned out. A very special thank you to my "Little Mermaid Sydnee" and her Mom Kelly, for bringing my Mermaid Costume to life in these AMAZING pictures.

Here is the link to my ebay auction. Take a peek!
Okay, so I have not figured out how to insert the Ebay auction link...take a look at my auction items below. I will figure the rest out another day. Back to sewing for me now!

2008-09-17T13:58:00.000-07:00

I will be listing this "Aquamarine Mermaid" Costume on Ebay this Friday. This is a custom made item available in sizes 2T to girls size 8. This costume has so many details, glass bead, shells, starfish hair clip, hand beading at the neckline and mermaid tail. I had so much fun creating this one. Watch for this new listing on Friday. Come take a peek and see if you recognize my adorable little mermaid model.

Fresh Baked treats from the Mistletoe Ranch Kitchen

2008-09-14T14:34:00.000-07:00

Anyone who knows me, will tell you that I love to bake. Here are a couple of our family favorites.

When I bake scones on school days, I send my childrens' teachers a little sample. Last Thursday I made pumpkin scones to share. I just love anything with pumpkin as an ingredient.

I will have to make muffins this week, hmm, maybe "Blackberry Cheesecake Muffins".

That gives me an idea... I think I should create Mother-Daughter Holiday aprons.

Here is the recipe for "Mistletoe Ranch Pumpkin Scones"

The Mistletoe Ranch Pumpkin Scones
Prep: 20 minutes (Prep time increases with the number of lil' bakers you have helping you) : )Bake: 12-15 minutes depending upon oven.
Ingredients
2-1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup packed brown sugar (I use Dark Brown Sugar)
2-1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt (if using salted butter, you may omit this)
1/2 cup chilled butter cut into small cubes
1 egg, beaten
1/2 cup canned pumpkin
1/3 cup milk
For Crunchy tops:2 Tablespoons buttermilk to brush on tops so Turbinado sugar will stick to scones. About 3 tablespoons Turbinado Sugar for sprinkling on the tops of scones before baking.
Directions1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. In a mixing bowl combine flour, brown sugar, baking powder, spices, baking soda, and salt. With a pastry blender cut in the 1/2 cup chilled butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs, (this can also be done in a Cuisinart or food processor up to this point). Make a well in the center of dry mixture; set aside.
2. In another bowl combine egg, pumpkin, and milk. Add egg mixture all at once to dry mixture. Using a fork, stir just until moistened.
3. Turn out dough onto a lightly floured surface. Quickly knead dough by folding and pressing gently for 10 to 12 strokes or until nearly smooth. Pat dough into 2 separate 6 to 7 inch circles. Cut each circle into 8 wedges.
4. Place wedges 1 inch apart on an ungreased baking sheet, (I like to use baking parchment for easy clean-up). If desired, brush tops with buttermilk and sprinkle with Turbinado sugar. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until golden. Remove scones from baking sheet and cool on a wire rack for 5 minutes. Makes 16 disappearing scones.

2008-09-12T21:39:00.000-07:00

My first blog post....well, here it goes....

These past few weeks I have found myself up late at night creating new costume designs. Late nights are my most productive sewing times, with the kiddos all in bed, wink! My espresso machine is working late nights with me. Hmmmm, the aroma of freshly ground espresso, time to get to work.
I just love this time of year, it sort of opens up the gate for the beginning of the holiday season. I just love sewing and creating for the Holidays.
I will post pictures when I get a chance...well, I must get back to my sewing. So long for now.

2008-09-12T21:37:00.000-07:00