friday fun stuff AND cookbook giveaway

Let's just get to the good stuff. There's lots of good stuff we need to click on.


Is this not the coolest clock?

I'm a leggings junkie no doubt about that. Have you seen these "Leggings in a Bag"?

Or how about these leggings from Billabong. LOVE!

Super cute dress for summer.

Crazy brownie combo that totally works. Bacon-bourbon brownies. I am so trying that one.


I just love this new 'chalk board paint' craze that's going around. Martha Stewart gives a small tutorial on how to make that fabulous check board like calendar.


Want to make your own chili powder at home? I never thought of doing this, but apparently it is a LOT cheaper. From Nick at Macheesmo

Do you use parchment paper on a daily basis? Here are half-sheet parchment sheets already perfectly sized for you baking sheet. Brilliant!

The latest food craze and I love it. The Meatball Shop in NYC. A place I must go. Have you been there? Even the website is cool. Click on the little meatball slider image in corner! LOL


Dean & Deluca spice rack. It is so pretty but so expensive. I need way more than a rack to hold all my spices.

Are you throwing a party for New Years Eve? Want to learn an inexpensive way? Here are a few smart tips from thekitchn. Don't make a full meal! True.


Peanut butter smores with strawberry marshmallows AND bacon peanut brittle. Irvin is a genius at eatthelove.com

Tips and places to use coupons for organic produce? Right here.


That bow is just fabulous.


Slouchie hats are in. Love or hate?


I'll take this one too. Would be fabulous in a black & white color too.


Dear Sir Richard Branson: please hire me. I will do a fabulous blog post all about your perfect Necker Island.


Petite indoor gardens. How cute is this?

Can boot trays be made somewhat pretty? Yes they can.

Lately I've been into hats, like this one. Element Thistle hat. How cute is that?

Does your pie crust always shrink? Follow these steps--this is exactly what I do. It works.


I really want a Soda Stream. Talk about saving money on soda. What a great invention.


Extra dark brownies with fresh lime. This is new but I can definitely see why it would work well together.

Chubby Hubby Truffles! From Brown eyed baker. Heavenly.

Just in time for New Years Eve party, Heather makes a champagne mousse.


I do love the mini pie craze that's happening now. I'm all for it!


This is the backsplash I want!


This is how I should be spending my winter, right here.


Argan oil seems to be all the craze lately. Do you use it?


Now this is a fabulous way to display your travel photos. Love love!

Cherry pie shortbread bites from raspberri cupcakes. I have no words, just drool.

Pulled pork empanadas with peach bbq sauce. Clever little baker!

Pepperoni pizza monkey bread! Thanks Shawnda at confections of a foodie bride.

Giveaway! Three lucky people can win a copy of this book!

SWEETS ON A STICK is the only cookbook that provides recipes for cakes, cookies, brownies, pies, and candies that are convenient, eye-catching, and a treat to make. You will find everything from cake pops and mini pies to cookies and marshmallow kabobs. From fruity to chocolate, crunchy to smooth, there are dozens of tasty bites to tempt your taste buds.

Parents will encourage kids to play with their food when they get together to create these delicious and decadent desserts, including unique holiday creations such as:

• Coconut Christmas Wreaths
• Abominable Snowman Pops
• Gingerbread Cookie pops
• Christmas Tree Cookies

Whether its cake pops or candied fruit, this book offers a variety of treats to satisfy everyone's sweet tooth. Many of the recipes in this book make the perfect activity for a play date or party. Invite kids of all ages to make, bake, and decorate—then sit back and watch as they laugh and play with the unique results. It’s just plain fun for everyone involved, and with full-color photos and step-by-step instructions, this book is guaranteed fun for the whole family.

All you have to do to enter is leave a comment here telling me what kind of "sweets on a stick" you'd like to see.

Please also make sure to LIKE Vanilla Sugar Blog on Facebook.

And please have and SHOW a valid email address when you leave a comment.

Drawing held Friday Jan 6, 2012

ONE COMMENT PER PERSON please.

Contest closed. Congrats to: Tree #8, Janet Rudolph #59 and Cake Duchess #66. Please email me your address so we can get these books out to you. CONGRATS!