Love Inspiration

 

Make Your Own Vegan Candy Hearts

I've combined your two recipes into a single, comprehensive recipe for classic Vegan Conversation Hearts. This version focuses on the traditional candy-making method, which closely replicates the texture and style of store-bought hearts, while incorporating your choice 

This recipe uses agar powder (a vegan gelling agent from algae) instead of gelatin to create a dough that can be rolled, cut, and dried into firm, sweet candies.

· Preparation Time: 45 minutes active time, plus 1-3 days drying

· Yield: Approximately 100 small hearts

Ingredients

· 2 tsp agar powder (or ½ tsp guar gum as an alternative)

· ½ cup water

· 1 tbsp maple syrup (or 2 tsp corn syrup)

· ¼ tsp salt

· 5 cups confectioners' (powdered) sugar, plus extra for dusting

· Flavoring & Coloring: Food-grade extracts (vanilla, lemon, mint, anise) or finely ground spices (anise seed, cinnamon); natural food colorings (beet powder, turmeric, matcha) or liquid food coloring.

Essential Tools

· Small saucepan

· Stand mixer with paddle attachment or hand mixer

· Rolling pin

· Small heart-shaped cookie cutter (about 1-inch wide)

· Baking sheet

· Parchment paper

· Fine brush or edible marker (for writing messages)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Activate the Agar: In a small saucepan, combine the water and agar powder. Heat over medium, stirring often until the mixture begins to bubble. Reduce heat and let it simmer gently for 5 minutes. It will start to thicken into a gel.

2. Make the Dough: Immediately pour the hot gel into your mixer's bowl. Add the maple syrup and salt. On low speed, begin adding the confectioners' sugar, one cup at a time, until a stiff, play-dough-like dough forms. It should hold its shape and not be sticky.

3. Color and Flavor: Divide the dough into portions for each color. Make a small dent in each portion, add a few drops of your chosen extract and food coloring, and knead by hand on a surface dusted with powdered sugar until the color is even. Wrap unused portions in plastic wrap to prevent drying.

4. Roll and Cut: Roll out one portion of dough on a sugared surface to about ⅛ to ¼ inch thick. Use the heart cutter to cut out shapes, transferring them to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Re-roll scraps and repeat with remaining dough.

5. Dry the Candies: Let the hearts dry uncovered at room temperature for 1-3 days, turning them once a day. They are ready when completely firm and slightly crisp. Drying time depends on thickness and humidity.

6. Add Messages (Optional): Once fully dry, you can write words on them using an edible marker or a fine brush with food coloring mixed with a drop of water.

💡 Key Tips for Success

For the best results, keep these practical tips in mind:

· Texture is Key: The dough must resemble play dough. If it's sticky, knead in more powdered sugar. If it's crumbly, a tiny sprinkle of water can help.

· Flavoring Choices: For a more authentic taste, some prefer using finely ground spices like anise seed instead of extracts, as they can offer a more pleasant and subtle flavor.

· Patience with Drying: Don't rush the drying. Air-drying for several days yields the best texture. Using an oven on the lowest setting or a dehydrator can speed this up to a few hours.

· Make a Cutter: If you don't have a small heart cutter, you can make one by cutting and shaping a clean aluminum can into a heart shape.

I hope this combined recipe helps you create a delightful and personalized Valentine's Day treat. If you'd like ideas for other vegan Valentine's desserts, such as chocolate truffles or cookies, I can provide some simple recipes for those as well.

How to Create a Cozy Winter Reading Nook

A cozy winter reading nook is a perfect place to enjoy a good book and a hot drink on a cold day. Here are some tips on how to create one in your home: 

• Start by finding a spot that is comfortable, quiet and has enough natural or artificial light. You can use a corner of your bedroom, living room or any other room that has a window or a fireplace12.
• Choose a chair or sofa that is cozy and supportive. You can also use cushions, pillows or blankets to make the spot more comfortable12.
• Add a small table, shelf or wall niche to store your books, magazines and e-reader. You can also display some personal items, such as photos, candles, plants and seasonal decor1234.
• Use warm colors and textures to create a cozy atmosphere. You can use rugs, curtains, throws, faux fur fabrics or pillows in colors like red, orange, yellow or brown. You can also use fabrics like wool, flannel, or faux fur125.
• Enjoy your cozy winter reading nook with a hot drink, such as tea or cocoa. You can also use a mug warmer, a thermos or a kettle to keep your drink warm12.

I hope this helps you create a cozy winter reading nook in your home. Happy reading! 

How to Use a Flickr Pro Account

Here are 20 ways to use Flickr Pro to get the most out of your membership, whether you’re a photographer, digital artist, blogger, or seller:m

Unlimited Photo Storage – Upload full-resolution photos without worrying about space limits.

Host a Professional Portfolio – Use albums and collections to showcase your best work as a digital portfolio.

Organize by Theme or Project – Sort photos into albums like “Portraits,” “Nature,” or “Client Work.”

Display EXIF Data – Show off camera settings and metadata to teach others or attract fellow enthusiasts.

5. Access Stats Dashboard – Track views, comments, and traffic sources for each image.

6. Backup Your Photos – Use it as a cloud archive to protect high-res images.

7. Promote Your Work – Share Flickr links on social media or embed galleries on your website or blog.

8. License Your Photos – Enable Creative Commons or copyright licenses to protect or monetize your work.

9. Create a Photo Blog – Use Flickr’s embed features to add photo stories to a WordPress or Tumblr blog.

10. Build Community – Join groups around photography genres or themes (e.g., street photography, macro).

11. Sell Prints or Products – Link to Etsy, Redbubble, or your own shop to sell prints or products based on your photos.

12. Use Flickr for SEO – Images with strong titles, tags, and descriptions can show up in Google Image Search.

13. Attract Clients – Add contact info to your bio or watermark images to attract bookings or freelance gigs.

14. Host Preset Showcases – Upload Lightroom preset “before and after” samples with links to buy.

15. Offer Tutorials or Edits – Share edited vs. original photo comparisons to market your editing services.

16. Pitch for Collaborations – Direct brands to your Flickr as a visual resume.

17. Run a Visual Challenge – Use groups or albums to host creative prompts or photo contests.

18. Create Pinterest-Friendly Pins – Design vertical images and pin from Flickr to drive traffic to your blog.

19. Curate Mood Boards – Use albums to group aesthetic themes for design, decor, or inspiration.

20. Link to Lightroom Presets or Downloads – Use the caption or description to link to freebies, paid downloads, or opt-ins.

Would you like me to create a downloadable checklist or blog post version of this list?

Survey for Blog Viewers

I thought I'd try to get to know my blog readers/subscribers better. Feel free to fill out this survey. Just copy and paste the survey in to the comment box.

Name:
Age:
Location:
Do you have an Etsy?
Do you have a blog?
Have you bought things off Etsy before?
Favorite type of craft?
Favorite artist? (whatever this means to you - musician, painter, writer, etc.)
Last book you read:
Last movie you watched:
Favorite quote:
Anything else:

You can feel free to use this form on your blog too if you have one.

Want to Be Reviewed?

 

Do you have a company with a product you want me to review? I am doing product reviews on this blog. Some examples of products I will review include:

• Handmade products from Etsy
• Vegan companies and products
• Art and art journaling supplies
• Business tools
• Digital products

I also do interviews and accept guest posts. Contact me for more details.

12 Benefits of Bubble Baths

Did you know National Bubble Bath Day is celebrated on January 8th every year. It’s a delightful occasion dedicated to the joy and relaxation of taking a bath.

1. Sink into warm, soapy water and let your worries melt away. Bubble baths are perfect for unwinding after a long day.

2. The hot water helps relax your muscles and eases tension.

3. Bubble baths can refresh your skin and leave it feeling soft.

4. The steam from the bath can help with congestion.

• 5. Bubbles in a bubble bath act as an insulator, keeping the water warm for up to 50% longer than a regular bath. 

  
  

  6. Did you know that many creative minds—from writers to artists—have found inspiration in the solitude of a warm bath? The combination of warmth, relaxation, and playful bubbles can ignite your imagination and help your thoughts flow more freely.
• 7. Bubbles can help remove and prevent a ring from forming around the bathtub. 
• 8. Bubbles can obscure vision, providing privacy while bathing. 
• 9. Bubbles can moisturize the skin, making it feel softer and smoother. They can also be therapeutic for dry and sensitive skin. 
• The scent of bubble bath can have aromatherapeutic benefits, such as calming the mind or improving mood. 
• Surfactants 

  10. Bubble baths contain chemicals called surfactants, which weaken the attraction between water molecules and lower the surface tension. This allows the bubbles to last longer and be more elastic, so they are less likely to deform when squeezed. Sodium laureth sulfate and sodium lauryl sulfate are two of the best surfactants for producing long-lasting bubbles. 
• Health benefits 

  11. Soaking in a warm bath can improve cardiovascular health and blood sugar levels in diabetics. 

  It can also help ease muscle tension, reduce stress, and improve circulation, which can help you sleep. 

  An hour-long soak at 38°C can burn around 130 calories, which is similar to walking for 30 minutes or doing 40 sit-ups. 

  
  

  12, Bathing or showering warms the skin relaxing the muscles underneath of it which causes a soothing effect, lulling the body into a state of relaxation which will prepare you for your 40 winks.

  
  

  ) It can help soothe dry skin

  That tight, dry feeling we all sometimes experience can often be due to the skin losing moisture through the top layers of the skin barrier, especially with those who suffer with eczema and psoriasis. 

  
  

  Did you know baths can make your heart actually pump faster? As the heart plays a vital role in trying to cool the body down, it has to work harder in a hot bath - not only exercising the heart but also great for the body’s general blood flow. Baths, we heart you. 

12. Yes, even your bathtub gets a good scrub during a bubble bath! 

How do you celebrate Bubble Bath Day? 

Gift a Friend: Some of us hesitate to indulge in bubble baths, but receiving a bottle of bubble bath as a gift makes it easier. Spread the love by giving a friend a reason to enjoy a relaxing soak.

Host a Bath Product Exchange: Invite friends over and ask them to bring their favorite bubble bath. Exchange bottles and discover new scents to pamper yourself with.

So, draw a warm bath, and enjoy some well-deserved me time!

Random Wishlist Items

I like to keep word documents of wishlists, products I might buy in the future or just like to think of having. Here are some products on my current wishlist:

Strapless Pleated Floral Dress

I like cute, colorful dresses for spring like this dress from Forever 21.

Lush Rub Rub Rub Sea Salt

I've been looking for a good body scrub and I like Lush products so I think I want to try this sometime.

MAC Jeanius Eye Shadow



I love the cute packaging on this eye shadow that's made to look like denim. I've never really tried MAC eye shadows before.

What's on your wishlist?

New Year's Resolution Tutorial: Positive Affirmations

New Year's Resolution: Think More Positively

Many people have the resolution to think more positively throughout the new year. One way to do this is through positive affirmations. One way you can use positive affirmations is to make a journal you keep every day with positive affirmations that will help you think more positively.

Supplies:

• Blank Journal: Look for a blank journal that will hold watercolor paint or other materials you want to use.  I used a small sized journal, but you can use any size you wish.
• Watercolor Paint: This is for coloring the background. You can use any watercolor paint you have.
• Marker: I used black sharpie marker for mine, but you can use any type of marker you have.
• Scissors (optional): This is for if you want to turn your journal in to an oracle deck.
• Stickers (optional): This is for labeling the topic of each affirmation.

Instructions:

1. Set up an area where you can journal. Lay newspaper or wax paper beneath your journal. Have a cup with water and paintbrushes.

2. For each entry, you want to start with a watercolor background. This is to set the mood of the affirmation. You can just use your instincts and go with what colors work with you. I like to use about two colors for each background and blend them together. You can use any watercolor techniques you like. You can also draw shapes or symbols such as hearts or stars.

3. Wait for your background to dry. Add the topic for your affirmation. I like to split my affirmation in different categories such as wealth, relationships and self. You may choose a sticker for each category to label your affirmation. I like to put my sticker in the upper right hand corner. For example, if the topic is self you might do a star sticker. If the topic is love, you might do a heart. You may also draw or paint your symbol. This step is optional, but I like to do it to categorize my affirmations.

4. Now write your affirmations. Affirmations should be positive and in the present tense. If you want to write about a negative topic, you canYou can look online for inspiration or just do what feels right to you. Once you write a few affirmations, you will get the hang of it.

Another idea is to keep a journal with things you are grateful for. Either way, your journal is meant to keep you thinking positively and record the things you go through. You can create art while learning to think more positively.

Do you ever use positive affirmations?

New Year’s Resolution Tutorial: Positive Affirmations

New Year’s Resolution: Think More Positively

Many people have the resolution to think more positively throughout the new year. One way to do this is through positive affirmations. One way you can use positive affirmations is to make a journal you keep every day with positive affirmations that will help you think more positively.

Supplies:

• Blank Journal: Look for a blank journal that will hold watercolor paint or other materials you want to use.  I used a small sized journal, but you can use any size you wish.
• Watercolor Paint: This is for coloring the background. You can use any watercolor paint you have.
• Marker: I used black sharpie marker for mine, but you can use any type of marker you have.
• Scissors (optional): This is for if you want to turn your journal in to an oracle deck.
• Stickers (optional): This is for labeling the topic of each affirmation.

Instructions:

1. Set up an area where you can journal. Lay newspaper or wax paper beneath your journal. Have a cup with water and paintbrushes.

2. For each entry, you want to start with a watercolor background. This is to set the mood of the affirmation. You can just use your instincts and go with what colors work with you. I like to use about two colors for each background and blend them together. You can use any watercolor techniques you like. You can also draw shapes or symbols such as hearts or stars.

3. Wait for your background to dry. Add the topic for your affirmation. I like to split my affirmation in different categories such as wealth, relationships and self. You may choose a sticker for each category to label your affirmation. I like to put my sticker in the upper right hand corner. For example, if the topic is self you might do a star sticker. If the topic is love, you might do a heart. You may also draw or paint your symbol. This step is optional, but I like to do it to categorize my affirmations.

4. Now write your affirmations. Affirmations should be positive and in the present tense. If you want to write about a negative topic, you canYou can look online for inspiration or just do what feels right to you. Once you write a few affirmations, you will get the hang of it.

Another idea is to keep a journal with things you are grateful for. Either way, your journal is meant to keep you thinking positively and record the things you go through. You can create art while learning to think more positively.

Do you ever use positive affirmations?

New Year's Resolution: Vision Board

A vision board is a good way to keep track of your goals. A vision board helps you visually see your goals and get clarity on what you want for the new year. It will also help you focus on your goals when you see the vision board every day.

Supplies:

• Bulletin Board: Use a blank bulletin board, poster board, photo frame or other item to keep your vision board on.
• Images: Find inspiring images for items you want to complete goals on. You can look on magazines or print out images from online.
• Glitter: I used basic white craft glitter.
• Glue: I used a glue stick. You can use any type of glue or adhesive you have.
• Scissors

Instructions:

1. Start by cutting out images of items you want on your board. Look for goals you want to complete for the new year. If you want to travel more, add images of places you want to go. Also look for motivational words and quotes. You can also include other images you want on your board such as fabric, decorative paper or stickers.

2. Arrange the images the way you want them on the board.

3. Start gluing the images on. Start with background images and then later images. For example, you might glue on decorative paper first and then add smaller images.

4. This step is optional, but I like to add a little glitter to my vision board to make it sparkle. Add glue to the places you want to glitter. Gently sprinkle glitter over the areas you out tie on. Throw out excess glitter in the trash.

5. Put your board on display. You want to see your vision board every day to stay inspired. Your office or bedroom are great places to hang your board.

If you use this tutorial, let me know in the comments. Have you ever made a vision board?