Yum...

So thanks to Pinterest, I now can successfully bake delicious Pumpkin chocolate chip cookies and muffins in under 30 minutes! I can't get over how ridiculously EASY these are to make. All you need are three ingredients. The recipe I found recommended Butter Pecan cake mix, but I used Carrot instead and it turned out delish! You can find the recipe here. I also added 1 cup dark chocolate chips, because I think chocolate is what makes this so good!

 

 

I was surprised that they tasted just as good as they looked. I've shared them with family and co-workers and no one ever believes it only took three ingredients to make. I definitely think these are better than any store bought ones.

 

To make cookies instead of muffins follow the same instructions, once you've mixed the ingredients  plop on a cookie sheet in heaping tablespoons, then bake at 350 for 10-12 minutes until just firm. I also used parchment paper so I didn't have to grease the cookie sheet. Also use foiled cupcake cups instead of the paper so they don't stick and are easier to eat.

 

 

So that's it! It's that simple. Hope you enjoy!

 

TREND ALERT! Layering Necklaces...

I was recently asked to guest post on Be-U-tiful Me, about the latest trend in the jewelry world... Layering Necklaces. I figured I would re-post and share it on here as well.

Tip #1- Don't worry about matching!

When it comes to both clothing and accessories, one of my favorite things is mismatching! Accessories play a big part of your overall look, don't be scared to venture out of your comfort zone and try something new. I very rarely wear matching sets of jewelry. Just because you're wearing a pearl necklace doesn't mean you have to wear pearl earrings. Mix it up, this is your opportunity to wear your own style, not a store bought one.

Tip #2- Don't over think it!

Look at your personal collection of jewels and baubles and just start trying them on together. The possibilities are endless. Anyone can pull off this layered look, and the best thing about it is that it can be as simple or as extravagant as you want to make it. So go ahead and try it!

Tip #3- Don't over do it!

We've all heard the saying "Less is more"... and that also can apply to this trend. I love statement necklaces, and most of the time for me bigger really is better. However, when layering some of your more chunky necklaces, be sure you are pairing them with the right kind of outfit. Stray away from really busy patterns, sequins, or tops with embellished necklines. Let the jewelry speak for itself, and don't over do it with other accessories so you don't distract from it's desired effect.

Here are some before and after pictures of some necklaces I enjoy wearing together. I've only paired two in these photos but that doesn't mean you can't try three or even four! Length is key in mastering this look, so just be sure all of your necklaces are different lengths and your golden. Need more jewelry in your life? Visit my Etsy shop and enter "10OFF" at check out to receive 10% off your purchase! You can also follow Tortuga's Design on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

 

Be sure you also take a peek around the Be-U-tiful Me blog, for some awesome hair styling tutorials! You will love it!

Had a nice Sunday drive with my main squeeze up Little Cottonwood canyon today. I kept singing the lyrics to Nicole Nordeman's song "Every Season" in my mind...

And even when the trees have just surrendered
To the harvest time
Forfeiting their leaves in late September
And sending us inside
Still I notice You when change begins
And I am braced for colder winds
I will offer thanks for what has been and was to come
You are Autumn

I love this time of year for many obvious reasons. Aside from all the fun, food, and parties I am always filled with a spirit of gratitude. Feeling blessed to be surrounded by such beauty, among many other things. Here is a glimpse of our Sunday drive...

Testing...Testing...Is this how you blog? It's been sooooo long. I need a blogging for dummies book. Does that even exist? Looking it up on Amazon now. More to come if this works!

♥N

Sailor Girl Keychains

Hello friends! Since we listed our FIRST ever keychains on Etsy over a month ago and no one has purchased one yet, we figured we would give them away! Yes you read right. We will be giving away a keychain with purchase of any item in our Etsy shop until the end of the month! Check them out here.

Better Than New...

I just love the North-West! Everytime I go back I fall in love even more. Aside from my sister and her family some of my favorite things about Washington is how green it is, the ocean views, downtown Fairhaven, Lake Whatcom, all the mom and pop shops, and of course some of the GREATEST thrift finds in all the world! Each time I go, I pack light so I can jam pack my suitcase full of goodies to take back home with me. This trip was no exception, after hours of searching and shopping I found some of the best vintage jewelry a gal could ask for. I can hardly wait to take them all apart and share my better than new creations with you. Stay tuned, they will be coming to our Etsy shop soon!

P.S. Thanks Francys for driving me around everywhere, you are the greatest sister and a terrific host. I love you. Oh! And thanks to you I officially know how to Blog now! Aren't you proud?

P.S.S. The picture is my niece showing off one of her thrifty finds!

About us...

We are a mother daughter team. We love to make and create beautiful, one of a kind jewelry. This is our passion! Together as a team we've created hundreds of different designs. Each are inspired by nature, traveling, art, fashion, culture, and of course MUSIC! Not one piece of jewelry has been created without us listening to music in our home studio.

Our jewelry is a fusion of modern design with a touch of vintage and latin influence. My mother was born and raised in Venezuela and I was a baby when we came to the states. Our difference in age and style make a great recipe for unique designs that are bound to attract attention.

Our jewelry is fun, eclectic, original and designed for all women of today. Our pieces are usually limited in quantity and are never mass produced. Check out our side bar to link you to our latest designs featured in our Etsy shop and Fan page.

Thanks for stopping by!