Bread in a Flower Pot
If you have a lonely neighbor that could use a little pick-me-up, you need a thoughtful housewarming gift for a friend, or you want to involve your children in a fun baking activity, I've got just the thing! Bread in a flower pot! Because who doesn't love home made bread, and who doesn't love a fresh terra cotta flower pot for spring! With such a darling presentation, it's sure to impress! 
There are tons of recipes out there for flower pot bread, but believe it or not, you can adapt most bread recipes and cook them in a flower pot quite easily. I've done it by following my regular banana bread recipe, and then simply bake it in a flower pot instead of my normal pans. Just make sure you wash flower pots (get new ones) with soap and water before using, and then spray them really well with cooking spray, and line them with parchment paper before dumping the bread dough inside. Place pots on a cookie sheet, and throw it in the oven! Baking times may be altered a bit, but just watch it closely, and pull it out of the oven when a toothpick comes out clean.
If you're a little hesitant to wing it, here are a few easy flower pot recipes to follow....
Rosemary Bread in a Flower Pot via food network
Rustic Flower Pot Bread via Genius Kitchen
via Pinterest
Flower Pot Peasant Bread via pinterest
Happy Bread Baking!
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What is Shaker Style Furniture?
Shaker furniture is a minimalist, simple style of furniture developed by the Shakers. Like the Shaker religion, this type of furniture is made to be modest, simple, and functional. While original Shaker furniture can be fairly expensive, many designers have been inspired by the Shaker style.
What is Shaker Style Furniture?
You’ll be able to identify Shaker style furniture by its straight lines, lack of excessive adornment, and its simple form. Wooden pulls, ladder-back chairs, and wall hanging pegs are all inspired by the Shakers. One of the best parts of Shaker style furniture is how easily it fits into almost any interior design style.
via The Style Files
If you’re interested in bringing some Shaker style furniture into your home, this bed set is a great option. Would you bring Shaker style furniture into your home?
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Gallery Walls
Gallery walls are such a fun way to display art, family pictures, and your favorite wall hangings. We’ve talked about how to hang the perfect gallery wall, but sometimes it can be hard to figure out where to hang your gallery wall and how to arrange it. There’s nothing like looking at how other people have hung their gallery walls for inspiration!
Gallery Walls
Fill an empty wall in a hallway with your favorite pictures. Including something with more depth, like the wooden letter above will create some variety to your gallery wall.
via Making Home Base
I've always been a fan of clean, simple lines and this grid gallery wall is exactly what I would want to have in my own home.
via Mandarina
The wall going up your staircase is the perfect place to add color and personality. I love how they have used the same color of frames in different shapes and sizes, as well as some art without a frame.
via Avenue
A gallery wall doesn't have to have unity in the frames - if the style of art matches, you'll create cohesion.
via Designs by Maria
Make an impact by making a gallery wall floor to ceiling.
Your gallery wall doesn't have to be huge. In fact, a small space can be perfect for just a couple of your favorite pieces of art.
If you've got some art or pictures you're wanting to frame and hang in your home, RC Willey has picture frames to help get your gallery wall up and ready!
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Ways to Use Essential Oils
For starters, I feel like I should make one thing very clear: I DO NOT SELL ESSENTIAL OILS!! I'm not close with anyone that does, either! And I don't even know enough about them to endorse any one company that sells them! Some of you are die hard oil lovers, and others might be anti- and I like all of you regardless:) While I'm a huge believer in modern medicine, I'm also pretty open to trying alternative/natural remedies. The idea of learning about oils (does it seem like a different language to anyone else?) kind of overwhelmed me for a long time though. I wasn't interested in trying them out until recently. I decided I'd see what all the fuss was about, and I got a basic essential oils starter kit last month.
I know the placebo effect is a very real thing, but I genuinely feel like they've helped around our house with little ailments and illnesses. If nothing else they've been a good, natural addition to our medicine cabinet! And bonus! Most of them smell really good! The thing that has always been the most confusing to me is knowing what to do with each oil. How do I use them? What do I use them for? How do I know what to do? I got a Modern Essentials Reference Card, and it has come really in handy. Below, I'm going to share some of the most common ailments it lists, and how to treat them!
Allergies: Melaleuca, Tropical Blend
Apply on sinuses and bottoms of feet.
Anxiety: Lavender, Orange, Lemon, Reassuring Blend
Diffuse or inhale. Massage into the skin. Apply to back of neck or temples.
Bee Sting: Roman Chamomile, Basil, Cleansing Blend
Apply on location. Cool compress on location.
Blisters: Lavender
Apply on location.
Burns: Lavender, Geranium.
Apply on location.
Colds: Thyme, Lemon, Protective Blend, Melaleuca
Diffuse. Inhale from water vapor. Apply to throat, temples, forehead, sinuses.
Congestion: Eucalyptus, Peppermint, Respiratory Blend, Douglas Fir
Apply to chest, neck, back, feet. Diffuse. Inhale directly or from water vapor.
Coughs: Respiratory Blend, Melaleuca, Eucalyptus, Douglas Fir, Protective Blend, Cardamom
Apply on throat and chest.
Cuts/Wounds: Helichrysum, Lavender, Melaleuca, Basil, Protective Blend
Apply on location.
Diarrhea: Peppermint, Ginger, Geranium, Digestive Blend
1-2 drops in capsule. Apply to abdomen. Warm compress.
Earache: Basil, Melaleuca, Helichrysum
Apply to surface of ear (not in ear canal), behind ear, or swab around ear canal.
Fever: Peppermint, Lemon, Lime, Eucalyptus, Clove
Swallow in Capsule. Apply to back or to bottoms of feet. Diffuse.
Gas: Lavender, Ginger
Apply on stomach, abdomen, or feet.
Headaches: Tension Blend, Peppermint, Rosemary, Soothing Blend.
Apply to temples, back of neck, forehead. Diffuse, or inhale directly.
Indigestion: Peppermint, Ginger, Digestive Blend.
Take in capsule. Apply on stomach or feet. Diffuse.
Insomnia: Lavender,Orange, Calming Blend, Roman Chamomile
Diffuse. Mist on linens, or place on pillow. Apply on feet or neck. Massage.
Muscle Cramps: Lemongrass with Peppermint, Marjoram, Soothing Blend
Apply on location. Massage. Bath.
Poison Ivy: Lavender, Joyful Blend
Apply on location. Massage on location.
Sore Throat: Melleuca, Protective Blend
Apply on throat or feet. Gargle. Diffuse. Inhale. Drink with beverage.
Stress: Lavender, Focus Blend, Lemon, Ylang Ylang
Diffuse. Inhale. Massage. Bath salts. Apply to neck, back or bottoms of feet.
Warts: Frankincense, Protective Blend, Melaleuca, Oregano, Clove
Apply on location daily.
Do you use essential oils??
If so, what success stories have you had?
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Homemade All Purpose Cleaner
Making your own homemade all-purpose cleaner will make cleaning your home a breeze! Buying cleaning products can get expensive, especially if you are like me and you end up spraying down your counters multiple times a day. I found this video that gives the recipe for not only all-purpose cleaner but a couple other homemade cleaners as well. Check it out and let me know if you’ve used any of these recipes!
Homemade All-Purpose Cleaner
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Chicken Souvlaki
Happy grilling season!! We grill year round at my house, but it's really nice to be able to grill dinner without a coat and boots on to keep you warm! In celebration of spring and warmer grilling weather, today I wanted to share my very favorite chicken recipe for the grill of all time- chicken souvlaki! It's my go-to when we have company over! I always have everything it calls for on hand, and it's ridiculously easy to throw together, but everyone always dies over it! I know that you'll love it, too!
Chicken Souvlaki
3/4 cup olive oil
1/2 cup lemon juice
1 Tbsp. oregeno
1 Tbsp. salt
2 tsp. garlic powder
2 tsp. black pepper
3 lb. cubed chicken or turkey
Combine all ingredients. Marinate for several hours, or overnight. Place chicken on skewers, and cook on hot grill. *Pair this with a greek salad, homemade bread, rice pilaf, and fresh fruit and you can't go wrong!! Enjoy!
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Xeriscaping Definition and Ideas
If you’re from somewhere where droughts are common, chances are you’ve heard of xeriscaping. If you haven’t, xeriscaping is a type of landscaping that requires little to no water, which makes it an ideal way to conserve water while still having a beautiful yard. Often when people think of xeriscaping they imagine bare landscapes filled with rock, but there are lots of plants that require very little water that you can add to your landscaping. If you’re interested in incorporating some xeriscaping in your yard, check out some of these ideas for inspiration!
Xeriscaping Definition and Ideas
via Garden Cubist
via Garden Decors
via Yard Share
Would you ever consider xeriscaping your yard? Be sure to check out RC Willey's patio selection so you have somewhere to relax and enjoy your yard!
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Grill Buying Guide
There is nothing like a summer barbeque! Summer isn't summer until you've cooked something out on the grill, so make sure you have a reliable grill ready this year. It may be difficult deciding what type of grill you should buy and everyone has their own opinions on which kind is best, so we've put together this buying guide to help you figure out what will be the best grill for you. Whether you're wanting to replace your existing grill or are looking for a new one, RC Willey has you covered!
Grill Buying Guide
BEFORE YOU BUY
SIZE
There are a few things to consider before you pick out a new grill. Be sure to measure the space you will be storing your grill so you know what size limitations you have. You will also want to think about how many people you generally cook for to make sure the cooking grate is large enough for everything you will make.
The cooking area of a grill is measured in square inches. Primary square inches refers to the main grate you will be using to cook. Secondary square inches refers to the workspace, including the side burners and warming rack, of the grill.
FUEL
Some grills need a gas hookup or an electrical outlet as a power source, so be sure you know what you have access to and what your preference is before you make your purchase. If you don’t have a gas hook up or an electrical outlet near your grilling area, many grills use portable propane tanks, charcoal, or wood pellets for fuel.
COST
The cost of your grill should be looked at in two ways. First, the upfront cost of the grill when you buy it. Grills come in a variety of price ranges which make them accessible to most budgets. Second, the cost of the fuel to use your grill. Natural gas or propane grills may cost more initially, but the fuel for these grills is cheaper than a charcoal or wood pellet grill in the long run.
CHARCOAL GRILL
This classic grill option is easy to use and the charcoal gives a unique flavor to whatever food you’re cooking. These grills are simple to use, but lighting the charcoal and cleaning up the ashes afterward can make setup and cleanup a longer process. It’s more difficult to control the temperature of a charcoal grill, but some people love the smoky flavor the charcoals provide.
NATURAL GAS GRILL
If you want a natural gas grill and don’t already have a dedicated gas line available, you will need to install one before you make your purchase. It is more expensive to install a natural gas grill, but the cost of fuel is so low that it often balances out the initial cost. These grills require little to prep and clean up, fire up quickly, and efficiently cook food. If you are looking for a quick way to grill outside, this is a good option.
PROPANE GRILL
Propane grills are the most popular grill right now. They are easy to use and include lots of features that give you many different ways to cook your food. With a propane grill, you will need to find a place to refill your propane tanks, and there is always the chance you will run out of fuel while grilling. It’s best to always keep an extra tank on hand when using a propane grill.
WOOD PELLET GRILL
For a real barbecuing experience, a smoker grill may be what you’re looking for. Smokers give food a rich, unique flavor and cook the meat long and slow at low temperatures. It can take hours to cook your meal, which means you may have to plan ahead and keep that in mind before starting dinner, but once you’ve started the process, the smoker will do the rest. There are different types of wood pellets you can purchase to fuel the grill which will change the flavor of the food you are grilling. These grills are dependent on electricity, so you will need to make sure there is an outlet available when you are ready to start cooking.
Grates
Grates are what your food sits on to be cooked. Baked on porcelain or stainless steel grates are the best at resisting rust and transferring heat.
Warming Racks
Warming racks attach to the inside of your grill and allow you to remove your food from heat but keep items warm in the grill.
Rotisseries
Rotisseries allow you to turn and evenly cook your food. They are attachments that can be added to most gas grills. Look for a sturdy rotisserie that will firmly hold the food you are cooking.
Side Burner
Powered by the same fuel as your grill, side burners allow you to easily cook sauces and side dishes outside while grilling. They are also a useful way to keep food warm before serving.
Electronic Ignition
Electronic ignition ignites the grill quickly and safely by just pushing a button.
Temperature Control
Using temperature control will help you accurately and quickly adjust the temperature of the grill so you can easily cook a variety of food.
Fuel Gauge
This will alert you of when you are low on fuel so you can always be prepared to grill.
Probe
Probes are meat thermometers built into your grill.
What type of grill are you going to get this summer?
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Spring Cleaning Checklist
It's Spring Break here! I'm trying to really enjoy having my kids home and plan fun activities and excursions for us to do during the day, but I'm just itching to C-L-E-A-N my house!!! I'm trying to be a fun mom, but I'm also tackling dresser drawers, closets, and cupboards in all of the free moments I find. It's seriously addicting! Have you caught the bug yet? There is something about spring that really just makes you want to start fresh in a sparkling clean home! If you aren't exactly sure where to start, check out the Spring Cleaning Checklists below to help you track your progress.....
via clean 4 real
via Glitter Guide
via she makes a home
Also, check out Martha Stewart's Spring Cleaning pdf
and I Dream of Clean's Ultimate Spring Cleaning List that was way too long to copy and paste here!
Happy Cleaning!!!
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Fire Pit Safety
There is nothing quite as fun and relaxing as sitting around a fire pit in your backyard. Fire pits are becoming more and more popular and for good reason! Before you start planning where to put a fire pit in your yard, though, you’ll want to check out these fire pit safety tips.
Fire Pit Safety
Where to Install a Fire Pit
Obviously, you’ll need to find a safe place for the fire pit. You’ll need to have a minimum of 10 feet between the fire pit and any homes, structures, and trees for a traditional wood burning fire pit. For a propane or natural gas pit, you need at least four feet on all sides and back.
Any lounge chairs need to be at least 2 feet away from the fire pit to protect them from the flame. Fire dining table options have a smaller flame and table overhang that protect the chairs, so seating can be a little closer.
Whatever type of fire table or pit you may have, make sure you do not place them under any overhead enclosure.
What Should The Fire Pit Be Placed On?
You’ll need to make sure you place your fire pit on something that will not catch fire. Surfaces like concrete, stone, gravel, brick, slate, or fire-resistant composite are good options. Keep all fire pits off of wooden decks in case of flying embers. For permanent fire pits, pick a safe spot in your yard and build the pit on a gravel base.
General Fire Safety
Before lighting any fire, make sure you know which direction the wind is blowing so you can control the flame. Avoid using flammable fluids like lighter fluid or gasoline to light your fire and don’t wear flammable or loose-fitting clothing when working with flames. Kids and pets should be kept at least three feet away from the fire and when you’re done for the night, make sure you know how to get rid of ashes safely.
If you're interested in putting a fire pit in your backyard, check out all the options at RC Willey!
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