Succulents and JELL-O

Last week a friend had a mini Easter swap. Each person brought something they made for the other people participating in the swap. I thought of a great idea the month before, and than ran out of time. So, this was the backup plan. It was fairly easy to put together, and didn’t take too much time.

My mom works at a greenhouse part-time in the Spring, so she was able to pick up some succulents for me. I told her to get a variety, and didn’t realize she would be able to get 10 completely different styles – there are so many varieties of succulents out in the world! I knew I wanted something reclaimed to use as the pot, and I also wanted it to be cheap. I found a set of these adorable vintage JELL-O molds that were under $1 a piece – perfect! (I have an aunt who makes fancy JELL-O for holidays, so it reminded me a bit of Easter too!)

I used a dremel tool to drill tiny holes in the bottom, and spray painted them gold. I tried a couple other colors including a pink one that looked like strawberry jello (!) but the gold spray paint coated the easiest, dried the fastest, and is a neutral enough color that people could place it in their home. I bought some cacti potting soil, and replanted them in their fancy new/old pots.

I have to admit, I fell in love with the mini JELL-O molds, and felt guilty about drilling into them and painting them. I think I will now keep my eye out for more next time I’m at an antique shop!

Movie Foodie: 13 Going on 30

I had the first Movie Foodie of the year a few weekends ago. 13 Going on 30 seemed like an appropriate film for my 30th year. 13 Going on 30 is such a cute movie, Jennifer Garner is adorable in it and Mark Ruffalo plays the perfect guy you love to love.

I chose Razzles as the key food item, and wrapped them up as favors (along with some "wishing dust" sprinkled inside) for the guests. Other food items included a veggie tray and “pigs in a blanket” from the birthday party scene, and strawberry chocolate chip pancakes from Jenna’s visit to see her parents. Piña coladas were the drink (my first time making real ones, they are easy too! I couldn't find the cream of coconut at the grocery store, but found it at a liquor store) and guests could keep them “virgin”, or make them “not virgin”.

For décor, I bought some silver fringe and used the laser machine at work to cut out the quote “30, flirty & thriving”. Also, I made it pajama party themed, a perfect excuse to wear pjs while watching a movie!

There are a few ways I choose what movies are best for Movie Foodie night. First, it’s a girl’s night, so I don’t have to worry about pleasing the dudes. Romantic comedies are totally acceptable. Secondly, the movie can’t be too serious – which means nothing that will make me, or others cry. The ending of Big Fish makes me cry every time (I only watch this one by myself, I prefer to cry alone so I can really enjoy it). As much as I love Big Fish, it won’t be Movie Foodie night. Third (which should probably be the first) - does food play a role in the movie? I wouldn’t call any of the movies I have shown, “foodie” movies, but either the food is a part of the plot, or becomes a prop between characters. But, some movies are just fun to throw a party for. My next Movie Foodie in October is Beetlejuice. I have no idea what the menu will be, but I’m so excited to decorate for it!