July 5, 2018 · 3:10 pm

Top 4 Reasons to Renovate Your Home

Renovating your home can be a costly and time-consuming process, but the benefits outweigh the money you spend on it. Many homeowners, in spite of draining their pockets, fail at giving their home a lavish look simply because they do not know how to get things done.

Renovating a home enhances the comfort, and the money spent on it serves as an investment. Moreover, the right renovation options also increase the value of your home and help you earn a good profit in case you decide to sell the house.

Here are the top 4 reasons to renovate your home:

1.Reduced Energy Bills

When you hire an experienced contractor, he/she can remodel your home in a way that can maximize natural light so that you don’t need to keep the lights on. This will help reduce energy consumption and help you save money.

Renovating a home also includes upgrading insulation. This will seal any exit points in the roof or anywhere else in the house to control temperature better. Doing so, will save you money on AC and heater bills, which is important a heating and cooling costs make up for about 50% of the total energy consumption.

Last but not the least, switching light fixtures to LEDs can also help you save energy as they are more energy-efficient than other options. They can run 10 times longer than incandescent bulbs.

2. Increases The Home’s Value

If you think that renovating your home is a money wasting process, think again. Renovating your home is a wise investment. Making both minor and major improvements in your home can boost the home’s value.

Renovating a kitchen has a ROI of almost 59% while making bathroom improvements give you 59.8% return on investment. Similarly, making upgrades in the rooms and hall can also increase the overall value of your home.

It’s not just the interior that will boost your home’s value, making upgrades outside can help too. A deck addition gives a ROI of almost 80%. Adding a small garden too can help you a great deal.

3. Increases The Comfort

It’s important that your home provides the comfort that you need. If the rooms look messy, cluttered and congested then it can be a bit difficult to find peace in your home.

Renovating your home helps you reconsider the space and make changes. It’s a great way to exclude unnecessary things. For example. a large coffee table in the hall might be occupying a lot of space. You can install shelves in the kitchen to make more space in the hall. Similarly, you can make adjustments for other areas as well.

We suggest that you visit ResCom Designs to find some inspiration.

4. Improves Aesthetics

No one wants their homes to look dull and unattractive. However, when a renovation is long overdue, the aesthetics are compromised. New upgrades such as fresh paint, new flooring, window replacement etc., can help enhance the look of your home.

This is a sponsored guest post, the views and ideals do not necessarily reflect those of Mommy Ramblings.

 

 


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July 3, 2018 · 2:43 pm

Get Your Pencil Because “Mightier Than The Sword” is Here!

Books are so much fun, they can transport you to faraway places and take you on exciting adventures. What about a book that takes it a step farther? One that is wildly funny and inventive, but also interactive? Yes, that sounds great doesn’t it? Mightier than the Sword will pull you, the reader, in the action, for an experience like no other. 

You wake up in the fictional land of Astorya, where stories from our world come to life. You’re a real human being (we assume), and in this fictional world, that makes you a superhero. Armed with your trusty pencil you have the power to create: what you write, draw, or scribble in the book becomes part of the story!

Only you can rescue Prince S. from the evil Queen Rulette. Aided by the Couriers–a French stoat with dangerous dance moves, a giant dung beetle, a fire ninja, a Pegasus-centaur-cowgirl and a super-intelligent femalien chameleon–you must write, draw, and puzzle your way through a hilarious adventure that is unique to every reader! And most importantly, you must prove that the pencil is mightier than the sword.

What a great book to add to your child’s summer reading list. A book they will be happy about diving into because they get to be part of the action and adventure. See the excerpt from the book below:

A Note to the Reader

This book is unlike any other book you’ve ever read before. What’s written on these pages is happening right now. To you.

That’s right, you.

This book is about you and what you’re doing right now—but not what you think you’re doing and not where you think you’re doing it. It’s about another you in another world.

Confused? That’s natural. We don’t fully understand it, either. Scientists are still trying to get to the bottom of how one thing can be in two places at once. If you’re curious about how such things work, we encourage you to read up on quantum physics and then explain it to us.

But not now! You’re already too deep into this book. One hundred twenty words deep, to be exact! And now even more! But don’t waste your time counting words to find out if we can count or not—your life hangs in the balance!

Sorry, did we forget to mention that? Well, it’s true. The other world you are in right now is a bizarre and dangerous place. Nothing is as it seems. Survival is not guaranteed. It will take every ounce of your courage, wit, and luck to get back home in one piece.

Scared? Tempted to put this book down and never touch it again? We don’t blame you. It’s scary to be fighting for your life in a strange world filled with terrifying creatures and unbearable puns. But to that we say: Too bad. Deal with it. Someone has to do it, and that someone is you.

And this isn’t just a ploy to make you keep reading. Although that is a good idea. We wish we had thought of that. We can’t think of everything. What did you expect? Omniscient narrators? Hardly! We don’t know everything about everyone, but we do know what’s happening to you. And right now you need your help.

So go grab your pencil and keep it handy. You will need it. It just so happens that in this other world, a pencil is all you have to draw the line between life and death. 

Draw A Picture is what you are asked to do on page 118 of Mightier than the Sword. More than a picture it is actually a map you are asked to create on page 19. Make it as elaborate or as simple as you want, just get Spielburg back on the map!

AUTHOR BIO

Alana Harrison and Drew Callander have spent their lives telling stories and cracking jokes. Alana graduated from The College of William and Mary with a degree in Comedic Writing and Performance. Drew graduated from Northwestern University with a degree in Fiction Writing.

Together they have created cartoons and short films with Jon Stewart, Conan O’Brien, John Oliver, and Kristen Schaal. Their work as writers and improv comedians has aired on Sirius XM Radio, NBC, and Comedy Central. Mightier Than the Sword is their first full-length middle-grade novel. They live with their baby daughter and exquisitely talented cat (neither of whom help with the dishes).

ILLUSTRATOR BIO:

Ryan Andrews lives in the Japanese countryside, with his wife, two kids, and their dog, Lucky. A friendly Kodama or two have been known to take up residence in the giant acorn tree that shades the house. Ryan often works at his drawing desk in the early-morning hours, to the sound of rummaging wild boar and badgers, who come from the surrounding forest seeking out shiitake mushrooms and fallen chestnuts.

 

So what do you think, does Mightier than the Sword sound like a book that would be one your child would like? Let me know.


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June 30, 2018 · 3:54 pm

How to Choose The Right Paint For Your Home

One of the most crucial decisions that homeowners need to make is selecting the paint for their homes. This is because the right paint can turn a dull looking home into a piece of flamboyant beauty and the wrong choice can affect the aesthetics of your entire home.

A lot of homeowners try to paint their homes on their own, because they think that grabbing a brush and stroking it on the walls is all there is to it. However, it’s not true. There are a lot of factors at play that only experts are aware of.

Besides hiring an expert to do the job, here are some tips that can help you pick the right paint for your home:

Do Your Research First

The paint for your home shouldn’t just be there to color the walls, but also to brighten your mood every time you walk into your home. To make this happen, you must choose high quality paint.

The first step towards finding the right paint is to conduct some research.

Find A Reliable Company

The paint you buy should come from a reliable company because quality matters. Buying paints from a trusted paint company will get you high quality paints that are durable and vibrant.

They should be free of hazardous chemicals, because the use of such paints can put you and your family’s health at risk.

Spend some time on the internet looking up several paint companies to see which ones are licensed and have good reviews regarding quality and safety.

Choose The Right Color

The paint for your house needs to blend in with the overall theme of your home, which includes the furniture, wall decor and floors. Bright colors are trending these days, as they literally brighten up the house and your mood as well.

Another thing to consider, is what kind of look you want. If bright colors make you uneasy and make it difficult for you to sleep, then going for dull colors is your best bet.

At the end of the day, we return to our homes to get rest and loosen up, hence, it is better to go for colors that give you a calm feeling, and help you relax when you enter your home.

Hire An Experienced Painter

Last but not the least, hiring an experienced painter is what you need to do next. It does not matter how good the paint is, if it isn’t applied properly, it will not look good on the walls.

The benefit of hiring professionals is that they know how to fix damages and spots. So, it’s wise to spend a few more dollars and have professionals take care of things for you.

If you are not a fan of paint, you may consider wallpapers as they provide the same benefits. A good choice is MuraleDesign, as the company offers a wide range of options. Just pick something that meets your taste.

This is a sponsored guest post, the ideals and views expressed are not necessarily those of Mommy Ramblings.


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June 27, 2018 · 3:11 am

“Life According to Og the Frog” Book Review & Blog Tour

Friday was the last day of school for my little ones, but even though the saying goes “no more teachers, no more books”, that is not exactly true in our house.

We are a book loving family, so a summer without books, would be a miserable summer. Even if your middle school child is not an enthusiastic reader, The Life of Og the Frog by Betty G. Birney will be one they want on their summer reading list.

Now, you may be familiar with the adventures in The World According to Humphrey who is the class pet in Room 26. This book also takes place in Room 26, but it is told from the perspective of Og the Frog! Og used to live in a marsh, but he has found himself as the newest class pet in Room 26.

There is so much Og the Frog wants to know. Of course he misses his friends from the pond, everyone except the bullying bullfrogs. The water in his tank is very clean, maybe a little too clean, Og the Frog enjoys a little muck every now and again, after all. The classroom is full of strange, unfamiliar noises and there is a furry, squeaky fellow living next to him, who is very entertaining. The kids are sure friendly and they put the biggest, fattest crickets right in Og’s tank!

All these new experiences give Og lots of inspiration for what he loves to do best, making up songs and poems. All was going along fine, Og the Frog was trying to figure out Humphrey, getting to know the kids better and then there was the frog debate. The debate had to do with whether or not to send Og to live in his own environment at Piney Woods or let him stay in room 26.

Og the Frog had a lot of feelings during the debate discussion and vote. Would he have to say goodbye to the kids he lovingly refers to as the Tads. What about Tabitha? Tabitha’s whole life had changed just like Og’s had. Og thought about Mandy, the little girl who finally started seeing the bright side of things thanks to his help. Let’s not forget about Humphrey who Og was finally beginning to figure out.

The tads had a discussion and took a vote. As their teacher starts pulling out the folded slips of paper and reading them to the class, it is only a matter of minutes before Og will know his fate.

About the Author:

Betty G. Birney has won many awards for writing for television, including an Emmy, three Humanitas Prizes, and a Writers Guild of America Award. In addition to the Humphrey series, she is the author of The Seven Wonders of Sassafrass Springs and The Princess and the Peabodys. She grew up in St. Louis, Missouri, where her parents grew up as neighbors on Humphrey Street.

The Life of Og the Frog is a good book to read aloud with your kids or to let them read aloud to you. Of course, it makes wonderful reading for kids in grades 3-7 to read on their own as well. Let me know if, The Life of Og the Frog will be hopping onto your middle schooler’s summer reading list.


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June 26, 2018 · 1:37 pm

Great Ideas for Christening Gifts

A new child is an amazing thing. Even though babies are born every day, each one is unique, a new life to nurture and a new opportunity for humanity.

Most cultures around the world celebrate the birth of a baby in some way, whether it’s a big feast, a religious service, or presenting the new child with a special gift.

In the US and Europe, new babies traditionally receive gifts like silver bracelets, metal-bound photo-albums, money boxes and photo frames. If you know that the new baby in your circle will be awash with items like these, then it might be a good idea to think outside the box a little.

Here’s some ideas for unusual – but still very much appreciated – christening gifts.

An investment for the future

Photo albums are great, they’re keepsakes and can be filled with family photos, but many parents are starting their child’s investment funds earlier than ever. How about giving the baby some valuable gold coins to either pass on to their own children or to sell when college tuition time rolls around? A good range of coins, as well as, some valuable advice, is available here, check it out, you really can’t go wrong.

Personalised jewelry

You can buy jewelry – usually a necklace – beautiful pendants with the initials of mother and child, or of the child and the entire family. These are generally not to be worn, but to be cherished as a keepsake. There are more modern, brushed metal options available in addition to, the more traditional highly polished styles. You can choose metals that have significance for the family as well.

Buy a piece of Mars

This is quite good fun, especially if the baby is born under the sign of Aries or Scorpio, which are believed by astrologers to be ruled by the red planet. This is, on the face of it, a delightful bit of whimsy – who doesn’t want to give their children the moon and the stars? However, with astronomers (the real scientists…) predicting we may be terraforming Mars within a generation or so, owning a Martian acre may turn out to be incredibly lucrative!

A Noah’s Ark

If the family is religious, it is likely the baby will probably receive gifts of crosses and christening certificate scrolls.  You can still follow this theme, but approach it from a different angle and make a splash with a fancy Noah’s Ark set.  Some of the best arks are carved from wood in painted or natural finishes. When choosing a set, you should aim for those with chunky, substantial pieces that are easy for babies and young children to hold and play with.

Plant a tree in the child’s name

This is a particularly poignant gesture because as we all know, trees are the lungs of the planet and future generations need them more than ever. The tree can be planted in the family garden, or in a public park, if permissible in your community. The tree can be further enhanced with a plaque engraved with the child’s birth date and name.

Feeling inspired by these ideas? Let us know what you decided upon or give us your own unique christening gift ideas.

This is a collaborative post and does not necessarily reflect the views of Mommy Ramblings.

 


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June 24, 2018 · 4:00 pm

Top 17 Hiking Essentials

Hiking is an excellent hobby that lets you experience nature, see amazing sights, see wildlife and get a great workout. If you are setting out for a hike, you probably know the importance of a comfortable backpack and good hiking shoes. However, there are some other important items that you should pack before you go on your next hike. Below you will find my list of 17 Top Hiking Essentials that can help you survive if you have an accident, or find yourself in adverse conditions.

Flashlight

A flashlight, lantern or headlamp is an absolute essential. It can get very dark at night and you will need something to light your way. Headlamps are a good choice because they keep your hands free. Most headlamps have different light modes including a strobe mode that can be used to signal for help in an emergency.

Map

You might have all the apps or GPS devices you can imagine, but you need to have a real map with you. Technology can fail and your devices can run out of power. Often, the signal strength is not good out in the mountains or remote areas, so you need to have something to rely on. Topographical maps are the best choice.

Compass

In addition to a good map,  you need to have a compass you can rely on as a backup if those sophisticated GPS devices and apps fail you  Compasses don’t need a power source or batteries, and some come equipped with a sighting mirror that can be used to flash sunlight to signal a helicopter or rescuer in an emergency. Technology is great, but don’t underestimate the importance of tried and true navigation devices.

Sunscreen

Out in the elements, you need to protect yourself from the damaging UV rays of the sun. Don’t forget to pack the sunscreen, and remember to apply it. A sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 is recommended. Check that the sunscreen you choose blocks UVA and UVB rays.

Sunglasses

A good pair of sunglasses are essential. Make sure you choose a quality pair because your eyes are worth it. A key component in a quality lens is the ability to block 100% of ultraviolet light (UVA and UVB). Did you know that UVB rays have been linked to the development of cataracts? Protecting your eyes is very important for your health. Be wary of cheap sunglasses that may put your eyes at risk.

First Aid Kit

Purchasing a ready-made kit is best, because they are designed to have supplies for a variety of issues, and save you the time of building your own. There are specialized first aid kits made for hiking and camping. A well stocked first aid kit will have all types of supplies including a snake bite kit.

Power Bank 

High capacity power banks are perfect to pack along to use if you need to charge your phone or other devices. You may think your phone has a great battery life, but you need to prepare for the unexpected. Power banks can be life-saving if you have an emergency or encounter conditions that cause delays.

Solar Charger

A solar charger can be used to power your smartphone and other electronics if you run out of battery power and deplete additional power banks. Using a solar charger can help you call or message for help if you have a signal.  Many solar chargers include a flashlight and even a compass.

Tools

A good knife and multi-tool are great to use for repairs, food prep, cutting branches or to use in emergency situations You can find all kinds of knives and multi-tools on the market. Choose one that is durable and lightweight.

Hydration

When you are hiking, you need plenty of water. Hydration packs and water bottles are a good way to make sure you have a supply of clean water to drink. There are personal water filters that can be used to turn stream or other water into safe drinking water. Carrying one of these filters can give you peace of mind that you will have life-sustaining water to drink if you are stranded or run out of water.

Emergency Shelter

Even if you are not going on an overnight hike, you should still pack an emergency shelter. You may feel confident that you will not get lost or injured, but it is best to be prepared for the unexpected. Something as simple as a space blanket or lightweight tarp can protect you from wind, rain, snow or sleet while you wait for help.

Safety Whistle

A loud safety whistle should be in your gear. If you need to signal for help, this will be heard a lot farther than your voice.

Insect Repellent

Carry a spray or lotion to protect yourself from biting insects, spiders, ticks and more. Many insects such as ticks can spread deadly disease so, be sure to protect yourself with an insect repellant that works well for the area you are hiking in.

Matches

Waterproof matches stored in a waterproof container can help you build a fire. Whether you need them to start a campfire on an overnight hike, or to light a fire to keep warm or signal for help, dry matches are essential. You pack a butane lighter to use as a backup.

Firestarter

A Firestarter like some dry tinder, candles or special wood soaked nuggets should be kept in a waterproof bag. These items will allow you to quickly get your fire to ignite. Even household dryer lint can be used.

Food

Don’t forget to pack extra food even on day hikes. Food items that are light but have good nutritional value are dried meats, nuts, protein bars and dried fruits.

Extra Clothing

Weather conditions can change rapidly, so pack an additional layer of clothing to protect yourself from the elements. Choose your clothing based on the season and the worst weather conditions you could face.

Hiking and camping are fun activities the whole family can enjoy. Preparing for emergencies and adverse conditions will give you peace of mind, and help keep you safe if you encounter trouble. How do you prepare for a hike? Do you have any important tips to share? I would love to read them in the comments.

 


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June 19, 2018 · 12:10 am

Middle School Summer Reading Pick, “The Selkie of San Francisco” #Giveaway

Are you looking for great books for your middle schooler’s summer reading list? If so, I have a thrilling adventure book you will want to add. The Selkie of San Francisco by Todd Calgi Gallicano is the action-packed sequel to Guardians of the Gryphon’s Claw. 

Sam London is back and on another mission on behalf of the Department of Mythical Wildlife! The Selkie of San Francisco (Delacorte Press / On sale June 19, 2018 / Ages 10 and up) follows Sam as he dives headlong into his second case, which involves a selkie, a mysterious girl, and an ominous new threat to the mythical and human worlds.

Perfect for fans of Percy Jackson, Artemis Fowl, and the Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel series, this imaginative fantasy tale is sure to leave readers on the edge of their seats!

About the Author:

Todd calgi Gallicano is the author of Guardians of the Gryphon’s Claw and The Selkie of San Francisco, the first two books in the Sam London Adventures series. When he’s not hammering out the next Sam London novel on his 1938 Royal Deluxe typewriter, he lives with his wife and daughter. Visit him at his website to learn more top-secret information.

Giveaway

Random House is sponsoring a giveaway on Mommy Ramblings! One lucky blog reader will win their own hardcover copy of, The Selkie of San Francisco! Thank you to Random House for the review book and for sponsoring this thrilling giveaway on Mommy Ramblings! Open to US residents.

The Selkie of San Francisco Book Giveaway on Mommy Ramblings Rules:

Enter for your chance to win using the Rafflecopter widget below. Good Luck!!!

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June 18, 2018 · 11:31 pm

“Women Athletes Who Rule!” Book #Giveaway

My kids love fun factoid books like, the Guinness Book of World Records and World Almanacs. The Sports Illustrated Kids Big Book of Who Series is a big favorite of theirs and the fifth title in this series is dedicated to women athletes.

Women Athletes Who Rule! profiles 101 extraordinary female athletes, both past and present, who shaped the narratives of their sports. Content is divided into several easy-to-digest sections for young readers: Superstars (who reinvented what it means to be a sports celebrity), Wonder Women (who transcend sports and created seismic shifts in our culture), Trail Blazers (who broke barriers and paved the way for others to follow), Record Breakers (who set new standards for excellence), and the Champions (who showed heart and gumption as winners).

Women Athletes Who Rule! is perfect to bring along on summer road trips and to add to your child’s summer reading list. They will love learning all about these amazing women athletes.  All of their stories bring excellence in women’s sports to readers hungry for empowering stories for kids—girls and boys alike.

Giveaway 

SI Kids is sponsoring a giveaway on Mommy Ramblings! One lucky blog reader will win their own copy of Women Athletes Who Rule! Thank you to SI Kids for the review book and for sponsoring this amazing giveaway on Mommy Ramblings! Open to US residents.

SI Kids, Women Athletes Who Rule! Book Giveaway on Mommy Ramblings Rules:

Please enter for your chance to win using the Rafflecopter widget below. Good Luck!!!

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· 1:33 pm

4 Things You Must See When Visiting Phuket, Thailand

Phuket, the largest island in Thailand is also one of the major tourist spots in Southeast Asia. It is listed among the best beaches in the world, and rightly so. Even some of the most exotic and expensive beach resorts in Africa and the Caribbean cannot match this tropical Southeast Asian beauty.

To top it off, it is by far one of the cheapest beach locations in the world. If you are flying into Phuket from the West, the airfare might put a bit of a dent on your wallet, but other than that everything else is pretty reasonable.

Phuket has an international airport but it does not host many international flights, so in case your airline does not offer a direct connection to Phuket, you might have to travel through Bangkok, which makes the journey a bit tedious. For this reason, we suggest dedicating at least a full week to Phuket so that you can relax and enjoy it to its fullest.

Phuket is not a place for day-tripping, and even a 2-day stay is not enough to see it all. If you are heading towards Phuket, here are four things that you must do.

Koh Phi Phi

Koh Phi Phi, popularly known as the Phi Phi Island is the biggest claim to fame is the famous Leonardo DiCaprio Hollywood flick The Beach (2000). Yes, the movie was shot right here on this island. However, even if you are not a movie buff, the island itself is way too serene and beautiful to be missed out.

If your stay in Phuket is for an extended period, we would highly recommend spending a night or two in Koh Phi Phi. However, if you do not have to do that, at least a day trip on this pristine white beach is a must.

Phang Nga Bay

Another divinely beautiful spot near Phuket is the Phang Nga Bay, which is famous for the beautiful limestone formations erected out of the emerald-green sea water. Phang Nga Bay is also home to James Bond Island, which got its name after two Bond movies were shot here. There is a lot to do in Phang Nga Bay, but some of the must-dos are limestone cliffs, the hongs, and Koh Panyee.

We recommend that you take a long tail boat from the eastern side of Phuket to shorten your travel time to Phang Nga Bay. Some luxury travelers also prefer taking a private speedboat or a Yacht which allows greater independence and shorter travel times. You might want to check out https://online-phuket.com for some great excursion deals to Phang Nga Bay to suit your preferences.

Phuket Fantasea

The scope of entertainment in Phuket goes way beyond beaching and island hopping, and Phuket Fantasea is a classic example. This happening cultural theme park that hosts over 4000 people every day is a landmark in Phuket’s nightlife. It offers a variety of shows and exciting performances along with tantalizing eating options.

Soi Bangla

Phuket is a town that seldom sleeps, and if you are looking for some late night fun, Bangla Street is your place to be. This beautiful street that stretches at over 400 meters come to life right after sunset and stays festive till the wee hours of the morning. The road is decorated with colorful neon lights and is home to many pubs, bars, cafes, eateries, nightclubs, and shopping places.

 

This is a sponsored guest post, the views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of Mommy Ramblings.

 

 


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June 15, 2018 · 4:54 pm

How To Make A Rose Swirl Cake

I cannot get over how foolproof this method of making a Rose Swirl Cake is. Do not be intimidated, because I think anyone can do this. This was my second time, and my first came out amazing too. For the cake, I used a moist yellow cake mix, then I made my chocolate buttercream frosting to use between the layers and crumb coat the whole cake.

I mixed up 1.5 batches of my vanilla buttercream frosting and added some pink gel coloring. Next, I filled a disposable piping bag fitted with an open star tip with the frosting. When you make the roses you start on the side of the cake. The height of the cake will determine how many rows of roses you will need. I made a traditional layer cake and I only needed to make 1 row of large roses on the side.

When you form the roses, you start in the center as if you are making a lowercase e. Go around in a circle surrounding the center until your rose is the desired size. Pick up your icing tip and start the next rose next to the first. Continue all the way around. Then start on the top of the cake. I piped a border around the bottom as well.

If you want to really enhance the cake, you can add pearl decor accents to the roses. The mixture of the yellow cake with the decadent chocolate buttercream and topped with the vanilla has become my family’s new favorite.

Check out my video tutorial for the specifics and to see how I make my buttercream frosting.

Let me know what you think and if you try this. If you are looking for a no bake cake recipe, check out my Carvel Style Ice Cream Cake, it is so good!


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