A Ladybug & Two Bees Walk Onto a Sunflower...

This labor day weekend Leon got to spend some time with his grandparents at a local farm in Lancaster, PA called Cherry Hill Orchards. It's a great family friendly spot that offers peach picking in the summer and apple picking in the fall...

Look at those feet! I think they're pretty adorable ;)

It was a lovely September day and we picked apples as well as enjoyed photographing sunflowers and picking zinnias. 

Just wanted to share some snaps from our trip and pass on some of that crisp, country air to you.

Notice the little bee flying where the silo is...

So many lovely zinnia colors to choose from.

The final bouquet as arranged by my mother (with Muffy the bear looking on).

Wishing you all a fruitful and happy start to the fall!

xo 

Ashley

Puff Paint Gingerbread House

Now that I'm officially a mom, I want to make this holiday season extra magical for Leon - our newborn son. I know he can't exactly take part in the festivities, or he may not even remember this year, but hopefully it will lay the foundation for him to love and enjoy the magic of Christmas.

I really wanted to make a gingerbread house for him, but knew that it would have to be super simple, since I'm so short on time between all the feedings and the burpings!. While shopping at Flying Tiger this week, I noticed a gingerbread kit for $5, so I quickly added to my basket. I didn't realize until after I was home, that the kit is only gingerbread, and doesn't come with icing or candy.

Last year I did a little 'hack' and used hot glue instead of royal icing, so I thought - why not do the same this year? All you need to make a quick, whimsical gingerbread house are some bottles of puff paint, hot glue, and old candy from the pantry. It's easy! Here's how I made this one:

Start with a simple gingerbread house kit such as this on from Flying Tiger.

Assemble some puff paints (I love these from OOLY), a hot glue gun, and some leftover candy or craft accents that you have laying around. I had some old heart candies from Valentine's day that worked perfectly!

Pipe the puff paint like icing around the windows, doors and roof. Allow all the sides of the gingerbread to dry while lying flat. Hot glue any candy on during this stage as well.

Hot glue the bottom of each gingerbread wall to a piece of cardboard or other sturdy material. Add the roof last.

*I was unable to fit the chimney pieces - they just didn't line up! - so I hot glued some candy to the roof instead*

Display your gingerbread house on a pretty cake stand or elevated tray.

It might not be edible, but it sure is pretty!

Enjoy everyone and please do leave a comment if you try this one out!

xox

Ashley aka Lady Lucas

Bunny on Board!

I haven't posted on this blog for a very long time - for a very good reason! My husband and I have been busy getting ready for the arrival of our first child this November. It's going to be a little boy, and we are so excited!

For almost a decade I've been creating art projects and craft ideas for moms and children. Now my life is about to change in a major way - and I'll be the mom seeking cute and fun activities to entertain my little one.  

This September I'll be launching a new online store filled with adorable baby and kids goods called 'Baby Lucas'. I was looking for a way to continue working from home, so that I can spend as much time as possible with my little bunny after he arrives... and the online store seemed like the logical choice. 

As part of the new website, I'll be posting weekly craft and DIY ideas right here especially for families that have wee ones. So please continue to follow along as I continue to share how to live a cuter life!

xo

Ashley (aka Lady Lucas)

Bloggers Wanted!

**THIS OFFER IS NOW CLOSED ** Thank you to the dozens of bloggers that approached me about reviewing my Etsy store. Can't wait to see your reviews!

The holiday season is upon us, and I'm looking to spread the word about the adorable coloring books and other kawaii printables in my Etsy Shop!

If you are a mom, DIY or creative blogger, I'd love to send you one printable product of your choosing from my store in exchange for a shout out or feature on your blog or social media. Simply contact me here for more info or leave a comment below!

Pick from dozens of coloring books, coloring pages, dollhouse printables and party downloads. There's a little something for everyone - so don't be shy! Get in touch today!

xo Lady Lucas