Bone & Bars

This bracelet has also been made with the carved bone beads from NYC. I have got to have one for myself, but this one is for sale ($51). If you are interested in buying it, it is on RJ's Jewelry Shop!

The First Friday was fun, but a little soggy. The rain definately kept the crowd down. I did learn alot from Susan McEwen about her beautiful Fused Glass Jewelry-pendants, earrings, bracelets, that she sells at the gallery. You can see her pictures on the DaVinci Artists Gallery link! That is the great fun of First Friday's, as the artists are there to talk to you about their work, pictures, jewelry, pottery, and glass art.

....and these "were" there as well. These are my infamous Caramel Fudge Bars or Brownies....whatever you want to call them, they are chocolately delicious! I have been making them for over 25 years, and they are always a requested favorite!

Caramel Fudge Bars

1 package German Chocolate Cake Mix

3/4 cup margarine, softened

2/3 cup evaporated milk, divided

1 cup chopped nuts, pecans, walnuts or almonds

1 package caramels, (approx. 14 ounces-or less is okay)

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Stir cake mix, softened margarine, 1/3 cup of the evaporated milk, and nuts until well mixed. Spread one half of the mixture into a greased and floured 9x13 inch pan. This is a thin layer. Bake at 350 degrees for 6-8 minutes. At this time, melt caramels with the other 1/3 cup of the evaporated milk. (I do this 1 minute at a time in the microwave, stirring as best I can after each minute). Sprinkle the chocolate chips over the baked mixture, as soon as you take it from the oven. Carefully spread (pour) the caramel mixture over the chips. (I try to avoid the sides, because it can really get tough to take out of the pan when cooled). Drop (like pats of butter) the remaining cake mixture over the top, and return to the oven to bake for an additional 20-25 minutes. Let them completely cool, then cut into approximately 24 large brownies. (I cut mine smaller because they are rich).

Enjoy!