Double Chocolate Muffins

{Gluten and Dairy Free}

These muffins make a wonderful dessert for the chocolate lover! 

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~1 1/3 cup warm water

~1/4 cup grapeseed oil or olive oil

~1/2 cup agave or maple syrup

~1/2 cup applesauce

~2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar

~1/3 cup ground flax seeds

~1 cup brown rice flour

~3/4 cups teff flour or almond flour

~1/3 cup cocoa powder

~2 teaspoons baking powder

~1/2 teaspoon sea salt

~1/2 cup dairy free chocolate or carob chips

1.Combine the first 6 ingredients together in a large mixing bowl.

2.Combine remaining ingredients except for chocolate chips in a separate bowl.

3.Combine wet and dry ingredients briefly, then fold in chocolate chips. Do not over-mix, as this will result in dry muffins.

4.Scoop batter into muffin cups and bake at 400 degrees for 20 minutes.

This recipe was taken from the book, Everyday Gluten Free by Kim Wilson.

Ooops!

You might have the most perfect top that goes with everything! You might wear your favorite summer dress every other day, but what happens when -- Ooops! -- you get a stain on your clothing!

Getting stains are never fun, and believe me when I say this, I rarely seem to escape a meal without something getting on my clothes. It's that awful millisecond between dropping BBQ sauce on my khaki skirt and the thought of, "What if it doesn't come out?????"

Thank the Lord for soap! 

(Tide to Go pens too ;)

Here is a very helpful article I read about how to save your clothing from those messy stains. Caring for your clothing is essential in keeping a well-groomed appearance. Clothing that's stained or discolored can cause you to appear lazy and disheveled. Proper care for clothing will show good stewardship and keep your favorite items wearable for many summers to come!

Find out how to remove summer stains here!

F.S. ~ Handwritten Notes

"Corresponding on paper lets you elevate a simple pleasure into an art form. And art  has always survived technology. A handwritten note is like dining by candlelight instead of flicking on the lights, like making a gift instead of ordering a product, like taking a walk instead of driving. Handwritten notes will add a lot to your life. You can still use the telephone or the Web for the daily chores of staying in touch, but for the words that matter, it's courteous, classy, caring, and civilized to pick up a pen." From The Art of the Handwritten Note by Margaret Shepherd. 

As I strolled through the "Bargain" shelves at Barnes and Noble, this book title, The Art of the Handwritten Note, caught my eye. While I glanced through the pages, I realized that I have very few friends who correspond through handwritten letters or notes. Correspondence from friends and family is dear to me. Yet rarely do I print out an e-mail and tack it to my bulletin board, nor do I record phone calls for sentimentality. Tucked under the ribbons of the rose patterned memory board hanging on the wall are verse cards and letters penned by my closest friends. The treasures that fill our keepsake boxes are things done by hand.

Picture a woman seated at a desk, her skirt flowing around her, the inkwell open before her and a quill pen in her hand as she begins to write a letter. The pen against the paper makes a scratching sound with each stroke indicating the thought that passes from author to paper and soon to recipient. Perhaps her face is in her hand and she gazes into space searching for the appropriate words to express her feelings. That sounds lovely, but how often do we find ourselves in such a position? It is true that quill pens and flowing skirts are not as common as they once were, but the handwritten note is equally as elegant and lovely today as it was when Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy quarreled about true reputations.

A handwritten note does not need a specific occasion, although there are occasions that call for them. Thank-you notes will be left to another F.S. post altogether, for they occupy a special category of the notes we are discussing. You do not have to have perfect penmanship or a talent for artistic embellishments to make a note worth sending. Notes sent by mail require forethought and a willingness to bless. In an age that makes communication instant, messages spontaneous, and cards virtual, the handwritten note stands out. It communicates to the recipient extra thoughtfulness and polish.

Middle School Madness

   

  There comes a time in everyone’s life (usually between the ages of 10 and 14) that one experiences something known as "the awkward phase." For most, it can be pretty brutal -- a time when relationships are tested and hormones wreak havoc until it's hard to recognize oneself. A lot of people spend this time trying to rediscover themselves, even though who they are is normally a lot better than what they're trying to be. They try new hairstyles, wear lots of different kinds of clothes, and basically try as hard as they can to ignore the fact that they aren't nearly as old or wise as they wish to be. Thankfully, I'm nearly done with this phase, but if you're just starting it, or you're somewhere right in the middle, don't worry. Take it from me; there's a light at the end of this seemingly endless tunnel.

  

One thing that a lot of us middle schoolers (especially those of us who are girls) worry way too much about is our appearances. We fuss over ourselves from head to toe as if those around us expect us to look like Barbie dolls from the moment we wake up until we go to bed. Even the thought of looking in a mirror is enough to make us feel queasy, and don't even get me started about getting ready to go places. I can't count the number of times I've rummaged through my closet, only to find that all my clothes either don't fit or make me feel as if I look like a two-year-old. I'll get suggestions from my mom or sister, and as much as I trust their fashion expertise, more times than not I'll find myself thinking, "Are you serious? I'm actually about to go out in public and you want me to wear that?" I don’t know if you have something better, but my favorite cure for this problem is to look out a window at all the beautiful trees surrounding my house. It reminds me that the same God who created me created those trees, as well as all the wonderful things in the world. He wouldn’t make anything ugly, and since he made me, I’m obviously not half as bad off as I feel sometimes.

  

  Another thing that really bugs me is the fact that I don't know everything. Have you ever said or done something only to be corrected by someone older than you because you made a mistake? Well, I don’t know about you, but it drives me crazy. I can be a bit stubborn sometimes, so being reminded that I have more shortcomings than I’d like to have can really get on my nerves. I’m not perfect, and I know there’s nothing I can do about that, but can’t I let my friends think I am? Not when I make an obvious mistake and have someone point it out to me. “If only I could go back and change what happened in that situation,” I’ve told myself countless times. But unless one of those many people that are a lot smarter than I’ll ever be invents a time machine, I can pretty much rule that out as impossible. One thing I can do, though, is pray for strength and patience as I deal with the inevitable: that there will always be someone out there who is more knowledgeable than I am, whether it be about writing, music, electronics; there will be a lot of people that know more about this. Unfortunately, I’m one of the most technologically illiterate people I know. There is one good thing about this, though. I’ll always have someone to help me if I get stuck on something difficult, as long as I have a willing spirit to learn.

  One last thing I think a lot of middle school girls have a lot of trouble with is the confusion of dating. A good number of us either have a “boyfriend” or wish we did. I personally want to wait until I’m older before I start looking for the person I’m going to marry someday. It’s a lot harder to save yourself for the man God made for you if you go through a bunch of unnecessary "lovey-dovey" relationships that will most likely lead to heartbreak. I also don’t think that people my age are mature enough to make decisions about things such as this. A relationship between a man and a woman is the most important earthly relationship there is, and I don’t want to make any decisions I’ll regret. One thing my mom told me to do when I have any doubts about this is to pray for my future spouse and ask God to help him make wise decisions in his life. This helps me to remember that God has a plan for me if I will choose to follow it.

  Whether you’re at an awkward time in your life or not, remember to always make God the center of your life. Even though with everyday distractions we may sometimes lose our focus, we must always strive to get back on track. When you’re in middle school, life can be rough, but with God on your side you can beat out the madness.

Note from Mom

Abby had high expectations that she would be blogging today -- the day after she had her wisdom teeth removed, but alas, her chipmunk cheeks and scheduled ozone meds have prevailed. I'm sure she would appreciate your prayers.

Watch for a post from Hope tomorrow!

Mrs. Little

Buy of the Week

I like an outfit that can be comfy and casual, yet classy and well-groomed. Redefine your "everyday wear" with some classy basics that do not sacrifice comfort for style and femininity.

This outfit has it all. Run to the store, stroll at the park, meet with your Bible study group, or have dinner out. It is great to have outfits that you can wear all day!

Find the lace tee here!

Find the relaxed skirt here!

**Please note that not all items from this store are recommended by SnP. Happy Shopping, but be mindful of what you purchase as an ambassador of Christ!**

Kale Chip Heaven

Kale Chips.

 I can't get enough of them! Crunchy, salty, tangy, and did I mention good for you? These are so good you'll never think they are healthy; I crave them all the time!!!

Note: You can use your oven or dehydrator. Also, I like to add a little lemon juice to my chips.

Welcome, Authors!

Hope ~ Who doesn't love a little hope in life? Hope is Silk and Purple's youngest team member and what a delight she is. Hope is starting on the path of figuring out this big world we live in and how we are to use God's Word as our guide. She is a young lady of many talents, and as she continues her education she will find more! She is such an encouragement to our younger readers of Silk and Purple and we are blessed to have her post!

Peek into Hope's world and you will find her writing, singing, playing and practicing the violin, writing songs with her sister, working on her schooling, and spending quality time with her family.

Favorite Food: Mac and Cheese

Favorite Animal: Dog

Favorite Color: Lime Green and Hot Pink

Season Sinclair ~ We are are honored to have Season Sinclair join us with all her southern elegance. This young woman knows that hospitality and etiquette protocol are treasures in 2012. As a published author, her writing style is refreshing and oh-so-classic.

A peek into Season Sinclair's life reveals days filled with baking, gardening, tending an orchard, writing, reading, studying, hosting a dinner, sewing, or teaching! 

Thrifting Pointers

Lost at how to find the perfect thrift store find? Sometimes thrifting seems more like an art rather than a skill. Don't give up, because when you find that perfect buy you'll be hooked!

I really enjoyed these posts! Check them out on how to shop like a pro!

http://sammydvintage.com/thrifting/*

Happy Treasure Hunting!!! 

*The values and ideas behind this site may or may not be those of Silk and Purple's team. Silk and Purple is not responsible for other blog posts and comments. Proceed with wisdom and discern what is honoring to Christ.

Modesty Meme

I think you might enjoy this...

Buy of the Week

Bright flats! 

Show your style in bright or neon flats. Wear with all neutrals for a bold pop of color or wear bright colors from head to toe. I love these orange flats for an uber cheap price! These would go great with a light peach dress!

$16.90

Check these flats out here!

**Please note that not all items from this store are recommended by SnP. Happy Shopping, but be mindful of what you purchase as an ambassador of Christ!**

Skin Care Sensations - Part 4

Here are a few wonderful facial mask recipes to keep your skin looking fresh and clean all the time! Enjoy a facial mask 1 or 2 times a week.

Cucumber Yogurt Mask

Make a puree of ½ a cucumber and 1 tablespoon yogurt in a blender and apply it on the face evenly. Leave it on the face for 10-15 minutes and then wash it off with cold water.

Banana Honey Mask

Mash a banana thoroughly and mix it with 1 teaspoon honey and 2 teaspoons yogurt and apply it on the face evenly. Leave it on the face till the skin absorbs it thoroughly and dries completely on the face and then rinse it off with cold water.

Avocado Mask

Mash half an avocado and apply it on the face thoroughly and let sit until it dries up completely and then wash it off with cold water.

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Enjoy these masks with a cup of hot tea and soft music playing in the background.

F.S. ~ Napkin Etiquette

 “Don’t smack.”

“Do not talk with your mouth full.”

“Please put your napkin in your lap.”

“Elbows off the table.”

We have all heard these things many times and have learned what it means to have proper table manners. Have you ever stopped to think why we follow these rules and where exactly they came from?

As I was searching for the particulars that go beyond the basic rules of napkin etiquette, I was surprised to find out how many people do not know the importance of putting their napkins in their laps! Oh my!

Napkins originated in France where they began as a large napkin that was shared around the table (eww). Gradually napkins became a more personal size, and by the 1700’s there were rules in place to guide one in its use.

Once the hostess has taken her napkin from the table and placed it in her lap, you may do the same. Leaving your napkin on the table is a sign of bad manners. Placing the napkin in your lap has two basic functions. First, the napkin is not to be seen and can be hidden under the table in your lap. Second, crumbs that drop will most likely fall to your lap, and more than one spoiled outfit has been avoided by having a napkin in its proper place! Because napkins are not to be seen, they should be placed discreetly in your chair and not on the table, if you have to excuse yourself for any reason.

Napkins are to dab the food from your mouth, not wipe it.

When the meal is over you can then place the napkin on the table to the left of your plate. If your napkin was in a napkin ring it should begin by having the point facing towards your chair. When you finish the meal you should return the napkin to the ring and face it towards the center of the table (still on the left side of your plate).

            Although there are times when it seems that it might be best to tuck your napkin under your chin, the only time this is appropriate would be a meal of lobster or a place where it was culturally acceptable (not here!). Otherwise, “napkin in your lap” should remain the standard.

Escape

Escape

Let's just face it -- pop culture is everything in our society. Whether we're at school, at work, or even at the supermarket (tabloids, anyone?), we all must face this beast at some point in our already hectic lives. Now I'm not saying it's all bad, but I believe it's hard to sit still and watch all the mixed-up people in the world obsess over the latest headlines on our nation's famous leaders, cheaters, and overeaters. All we're ever doing when we do this is glorifying a fallen and unworthy cause instead of glorifying our Savior.

As Christians, it's not our job to criticize people for their mistakes -- our pop culture TV shows and magazines do just that, and publicize it to make it much worse. We shun the rich and famous for their false deeds, when chances are, we've committed the same ones. As Jesus once said, "Let he who is without sin cast the first stone." "But I'm not famous," you may reason. "I'm not going to influence lots of people with my decisions." Now it's true that you may not influence as many people as Jessica Simpson or Halle Berry, but you might be surprised at the number of people watching you. As you can see from our odd ability to memorize meticulous facts and figures about our favorite pop culture stars, we people are like sponges, soaking up everything around us, whether it's good for us or not.

Speaking of that, we also need to guard our hearts and minds from things that can contaminate them. When it comes to this, we are all like small children. Think about when a young child sees a picture of a scantily-clad woman on the front of a magazine in the checkout line at the grocery store. She will be curious, and naturally remember the picture very distinctly because of that. In a way, we are all these children, being drawn to things that can hurt us because we are curious, kind of like when a rabbit loses its way and wanders into a snare. Just like that, we become trapped with thoughts of things that dishonor God.

The last thing I want to tell you is that the happenings of pop culture stars aren't that important to us in the long run. Does it really change your life any if someone you don't even know gets plastic surgery? Obviously, they're the ones who are uncomfortable with their appearances, not you, and frankly it isn't any of your business. Or what about a haircut? Why were so many young girls devastated when teen pop star Justin Bieber cut his hair, when there are many people in the world who don't even have any hair to cut because of sickness and strong treatments such as chemotherapy? Pop culture makes us selfish and deprives us of life's true meaning: a wonderful relationship with the One who gave us life in the first place.

So this month, I challenge you to escape. If you haven't already, step away from the much-traveled path of pop culture indecency and live life to the fullest. Do this, and you'll be a much happier person. All you need is to trust God to help you keep from falling into temptation, and escape from the average, predictable way our society runs itself. I know it's hard, but it'll pay off in the end.

     

It Matters and It's Coming

We are so excited to announce our very first MP3!! 

Keep watch as to when you can order your copy of It Matters in the coming weeks!!

Buy of the Week

Here is a great year-around maxi skirt in several different colors -- a wardrobe basic!

Find the skirt here!

**Please note that not all items from this store are recommended by SnP. Happy Shopping, but be mindful of what you purchase as an ambassador of Christ!**

Skin Care Sensations - Part 3

Today I want to talk about foods that we can eat to help our skin look healthy and cared for! 

All of us have probably struggled with a skin "problem" at some time -- acne, scars, wrinkles, blemishes, etc. But here is some good news: people usually don't notice your skin "problem" unless you point it out to them! 

So let's discuss foods (and beverages) that make our skin glow, and foods and beverages that are damaging to our skin.

Foods That Make Our Skin Glow

1. Water

The more water we drink, the more our body flushes out impurities, giving our skin a clean look! Try to drink 8-10 glasses of water daily.

2. Green Tea

Green tea contains many antioxidants, which are wonderful for the skin! Avoid putting sugar and artificial sweeteners in your tea.

3. Cantaloupe

 Cantaloupe increases antioxidants in your body, which increases your ability to absorb free radicals, which in turn reduces skin problems so that you have healthier skin!

4. Tomatoes

Tomatoes also increase the amount of antioxidants in your body and give the same benefits as cantaloupe: healthier skin!

5. Berries

Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries are wonderful for your skin. Toss them in cereal, a smoothie, or just eat a handful as an energizing snack!

6. Spinach

Spinach is high in Vitamin A, which improves the turnover of old skin cells, so that your skin is kept looking refreshed and renewed!

7. Flax Seeds

Flax seeds are rich in Omega 3 fatty acids which reduce inflammation, therefore making them a wonderful food for the skin!

8. Citrus Fruits

Citrus fruits are rich in Vitamin C, which delays and reduces wrinkles!

Foods That Damage Our Skin

1. Refined Sugar*

Refined sugar is in almost every packaged product, bread, and dessert in our modern supermarkets. It sometimes hides under names like "evaporated cane juice" or "cane syrup." White sugar is very damaging to our skin, not to mention our bodies. 

2. Soft Drinks*

Soft drinks are our nation's most popular drink. They come in every shape, flavor, and color. Soft drinks are also very damaging to our skin and bodies, as they contain very high amounts of sugar, chemicals, and dyes. 

3. Artificial Sweeteners

Artificial sweeteners like the ones you see above are terrible for our skin (and bodies) as they contain chemicals and bleaches.

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 Remember ladies, that if we eat the way God intended for us, we will have very clean, clear, shining skin!

*To learn more about refined sugar and soft drinks, read my earlier articles here and here.

The Betrothal and Wedding to Come!

Imagine for a moment you are engaged to the most wonderful man. He has all the qualities you have ever dreamed of and all the things you could never dream, because he is so wonderful. He prizes you greatly and loves you unconditionally! You love him more every day as you know him more every day.

You imagine your life with him! You plan and dream of growing old and all the many wonderful things you will do together!

But what if I were to tell you he was not with you. He had to go away until your wedding day and still then you had no idea when your wedding would be. All you want to do is be with him and he wants to be with you. You have nothing of his to keep safe other than some poetry, letters, and instructions he has given you for preparation for your wedding. You know you can call him anytime and he will listen to the funny things that happen to you or the things that are overwhelming, but it's just not the same as him being in the same room and him offering an actual shoulder to cry on.

The days seem long. Yet time slips by fast. And you just miss him.

And then one day he calls and sends a ticket for you to meet him!!!

Or maybe he shows up unannounced and gives you the happiest surprise you could ever imagine!!!

You don't miss him now. And actually waiting for him made it all the more sweeter when you could finally be with him. And now you live happily ever after, discovering all the wonders between husband and bride.

******************

 A beautiful tale. Yet this story is not fictional. You and I are in the middle of this story as you read this post. Now you might be thinking, "Wait, does Abby know something I don't know? I'm not engaged!"

Yes, you are! 

That is, if you are a part of Christ's church. The Bible identifies Christ as a Bridegroom.

"Let us rejoice and exult and give him the glory, for the marriage of the Lamb has come, and his Bride has made herself ready"
Revelations 19:7


We are in a state of engagement with Christ as we wait for His return. Whenever I go to a wedding, the big moment is when the bride walks in. Everyone watches the bride in all her splendor, but my favorite person to watch is the groom. His face explains it all. Can you imagine Christ as an excited bridegroom? Anticipating His wedding and trusting His Father as to when the day shall come!

As in the story above, Christ has left "poetry, letters, songs, and instructions he has given you for preparation for your wedding." It is all contained in the Bible. As brides-to-be that are away from our  fiancés, we must hold tight, cherish, and live by what He has left us.

In days of old, a man seeking a wife would have to pay a bride price to the father. Christ has done this for us! He paid the price for us by His death and resurrection! Today and every day, you are preparing for your wedding. Let your excitement bubble over as engaged couples often do!!! Keep cherishing your Bridegroom's words and tell the world about your wedding to come!

(In memory of Dalta Garret. We will greatly miss her, but rejoice in the knowledge she is no longer parted from her Bridegroom.
Happy Home-going, Dalta!)

Rainbow Connection Winner!

Thanks for all the entries! We loved looking at your awesome creations!


Congratulations, Cassie Hope!!!

You did a beautiful job with mixing colors in an oh-so-fab way!

"I chose coral as my main colour because it is so cheerful but also very elegant and classy. It works especially nicely with blues, both bright ones and dark ones, and can absolutely top off any outfit either as a feature colour or as an accent. It can be worn to a special event or merely as a bright and stylish addition to a casual outfit. I paired my coral features mainly with blues, and the overall effect reminds me of beautiful summer and spring colours and is bound to present a cheerful and friendly countenance."

Runner up!

clara-bessie

RED by clara-bessie featuring sailor jeans

French Manicure Tutorial

Here is a practical tutorial for how to do a French manicure! 

*Please make sure to get your parents' approval before watching any Youtube video.

Updates ~ N.P.A. and Contest

Do you remember?

Have you been keeping your nails protected from your awful habit? I've been keeping my word, but I can't say I've been 100% faithful or that it's been easy. I've found that I pick my nails when I'm in a stressful situation. I won't even realize what I'm doing until I look down at my finger and the nail is gone! :/

 I have a little less than a month to go, but I am very pleased at my progress, but don't let me toot my own horn. You be the judge!

Last Month...

This Month... :)

Also, don't forget about the Rainbow Connection Contest going on! 

Find more here!

Buy of the Week!

Happy Independence Day!!!!!

To celebrate my American heritage, Buy of the Week has gone Americana.

This little outfit is perfect for a summer picnic or watching fireworks in the evening. 

Find the Dress Here!

Find the Bag Here!

Find the Hat Here!

**Please note that not all items from this store are recommended by SnP. Happy Shopping, but be mindful of what you purchase as an ambassador of Christ!**

Skin Care Sensations - Part 2

I don't know about you, but I love soap! Soap has been used since the beginning of time for cleansing people's skin and hair. But sadly, most of the soaps offered at today's supermarket contain many different harsh chemicals and dyes that are harmful to our skin. Our skin absorbs everything we put on it, and it then enters into our bodies. Therefore, it is very important that we use only natural soap products.


Here are some wonderful tried and true soap recipes from the book Natural Soapmaking.

Peppermint Refreshment Soap


-2 cups grated unscented natural soap
-1/4 cup coconut oil
-1/2 cup water
-10 drops peppermint essential oil
-5 drops rosemary essential oil
-5 drops eucalyptus essential oil
-5 drops tea tree essential oil
-1 teaspoon crushed dried peppermint leaves, optional


1. Melt soap, coconut oil, and water together in a medium saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
2. After soap has melted, remove from heat and stir in essential oils and peppermint leaves.
3. Immediately pour soap into plastic soap molds.
4. Allow to harden for 2 hours.
5. Pop soap from molds and place in a cool, dry spot for 2 weeks before using.

Camomile Oatmeal Soap


-2 cups grated unscented natural soap
-1/4 cup coconut oil
-1/2 cup water
-1 Tablespoon ground toasted oatmeal
-10 drops essential camomile oil
-5 drops clary sage essential oil


1. Melt soap, coconut oil, and water together in a medium saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
2. After soap has melted, remove from heat and stir in essential oils and oatmeal.
3. Immediately pour soap into plastic soap molds.
4. Allow to harden for 2 hours.
5. Pop soap from molds and place in a cool, dry spot for 2 weeks before using.


~You can purchase essential oils here.
~You can purchase natural bar soap here.


Have a wonderful 4th of July! 

The Rainbow Connection Contest

So we've been talking about colors and neutrals for the past couple of months and we want to see what you now know! 

Pick your favorite color and highlight it in an ensemble. Show us your best creativity and how modesty can be oh-so-fabulous!

Winner will be announced Saturday, July 7, 2012!

Here is how to enter! Visit this site and create an inspiration board with an outfit you would wear to express your favorite color through the Rainbow Connection. Select dresses, hats, shoes, and so much more. Tell us why you selected your color combos, or rather, why you went monochromatic.

Send your outfit to us via email by Friday, July 6, 2012, no later than 11:59 p.m. CST. We will select the winner and post your outfit on Silk and Purple for all to see!


Here is a collage including my favorite color and how I would wear it.

Visit Polyvore http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/app to create your Rainbow Connection!


silknpurpleprov31@gmail.com