Bailey Anne Bravely

Lake Champlain Chocolates makes some excellent Apple Cider Caramels . I tried some, which was a mistake the best idea. They're truly delicious, but rather expensive. I do recommend buying some (maybe split it with friends!). However--as their website points out--their apple cider caramels are often in limited supply and high demand, so what are you to do when the shelves and/or your wallet is empty? Make your own, of course! My initial Google search led me to this Brown Eyed Baker version of the recipe, though the commenters below pointed out that it could also be found at Annie's Eats , and both had sourced their recipe from Smitten Kitchen . None of these had chocolate-dipped caramels; I added that detail myself. So now that you have the bibliography, let's get candy-making! And first, let me tell you: do not be afraid. This recipe may be time consuming but it is super, super easy. I promise. I use too many words in this version of the recipe but that's only be...

Happy Mardi Gras! I need a better macro lens. :-/ This nail art started out with the intention of being neat little stars, but I was in such a hurry that the stars turned out more like fireworks. I call this a success anyway! Proof that you can still get a cool look without too much time and effort.  The steps: Base coat of purple nail polish Acrylic paint and a tiny brush: one green star on each nail, along with little rays coming off the star Same tiny brush, two acrylic yellow stars with rays Clear nail polish to seal. In case you weren't aware, purple, green, and yellow are the Mardi Gras colors. Mardi Gras means "Fat Tuesday" because it's the day people indulge in all the things they won't be able to eat during Lent, the period of fasting before Easter, which starts the day after Mardi Gras. I'm technically a Methodist but the whole giving things up for Lent was never drilled into me (sorry Mom), but Mardi Gras is still a fun time t...