A wintry love affair

...when fire meets ice.

I recently came across these lovely ice luminaries. Since winter is nearing its end (or so we hope), feel free to try this out sooner than later. It could make this stinkin' cold weather more... attractive? This is such a simple project - and to top it off - it's super cheap. First, find a mold - available at most hardware stores or garden centers. Fill the mold with water and freeze - when the outer rim of the ice is solid, remove it from the mold - insert a candle of your choice and VOILA, you have yourself a beautiful beacon! Candles, a mold, water - doesn't get any better than that - PENNIES PEOPLE. This article was featured in the local, Star Tribune and tips us off on how we can make our lanterns even more fun! Add a touch of nature: twigs, pine cones, acorns, evergreen boughs, cranberries, sliced oranges, flowers (fresh or dried), etc. Color can be utilized from kool-aid, fruit juice or punch. COOL, eh!? Or, bring the excitement inside - these babies act as ideal wine chillers, ice buckets or centerpieces - just make sure you remove it after a couple of hours or you'll have a miniscule mess on your hands. Hmm, if only I had a sidewalk....