http://natajane.com/blog all things natalie. Thu, 18 Feb 2010 05:25:19 +0000 http://backend.userland.com/rss092 en I've not made many chocolate cakes in my day, but I was determined to find the perfect recipe for Valentine's Day. I looked high and low for recipes online that would yield a rich, satisfying result. When I came across this flour-less chocolate truffle cake, I knew I had ... http://natajane.com/blog/?p=392 I've been graciously nominated for "Favorite Handmade Crafter" for my pieces for sale in my Etsy shop. I want to thank Poppytalk for including me, and ask for your votes. I am honoured to be selected and appreciate the support of all who have voted. Click here to vote for nataJane! ... http://natajane.com/blog/?p=391 I woke up to the sun rising into a clear sky and thought the forecast for snow might be a bit off. It wasn't. Within a half hour, the sky was covered with a thick fog that brought snow. It's been -13C most of the afternoon, but I layered up ... http://natajane.com/blog/?p=390 For years, my family has carried the Dutch tradition of making oliebollen at the New Year and today I did my part. These delicious morsels are basically balls of dough fried in oil, then dipped in powdered sugar before consumed in mass amounts. Besides most of the Brak households in ... http://natajane.com/blog/?p=389 I had a craving for crepes this past week and our wedding anniversary was the perfect excuse. It's not exactly the season for strawberries, but I found some and gave them a good dose of sugar. Fruit and powdered sugar are lovely toppings and Nutella is good for a touch ... http://natajane.com/blog/?p=388 I've switched fabric vendors and am happy to introduce several new, gorgeous colours! The Coda has been getting a lot of interest as bridesmaid dresses for spring weddings. I love this fabric and it's perfect for the stretchy versatility of this wrap dress. Ringing in the new year with beautiful ... http://natajane.com/blog/?p=387 ...well, it's close. I wrapped our first Christmas present today and put it under the tree. I love the paper, the colours, the lights, the music- we even have a beautiful blanket of snow on the ground. I think I enjoy the days leading up to Christmas about as much as ... http://natajane.com/blog/?p=386 I've had to wear glasses and contacts for years now, but I've always hated how much they cost. A few weeks ago, my glasses broke and I was ready for a new pair. I couldn't stomach the thought of spending over $100 in a store that sells glasses, so I ... http://natajane.com/blog/?p=385 I am thankful for life, love and all that is beautiful. I am thankful for health and family. I am thankful for purpose and a clear path. More than anything, I am thankful for an incredible Father who has blessed me more than I ever deserved and loved me despite ... http://natajane.com/blog/?p=383 Well, after a two week delay due to weather, we finally had Castleview's second Harvest Fest and it was a terrific day. There were brand new games, a cream-pie-in-the-face-auction, incredible food and so much more fun stuff. Every thanksgiving we try to help out families in the church who may ... http://natajane.com/blog/?p=382