We've been dreaming a lot lately at Bright Star Farm, bursting with creative ideas for products, goods, and ideas to create and sell, not only here at the farm but in other outlets, too. 

A recent trip to Wild Birds Unlimited in New Bern proved that others are latching onto our ideas. In fact, they've even asked to feature our Alpaca Fleece Nesting Balls made from 100% natural fleece from our very own alpacas here at the farm. 

So what are nesting balls, anyway? Nesting balls essentially provide fodder for bird nests. Hang one outside and watch as birds pull the contents of the nesting ball -- often horse hair, feathers, or alpaca fleece -- out to build nests of their own. And anyone who knows birds knows they're very resourceful. They'll use whatever they can to create safe, comfortable nests for their little ones.

They're also a great way to attract birds to your home, which is especially appealing to avid bird watchers and nature lovers. Plus, now that we're coming into warmer weather, it's the perfect time to hang one near your back porch and watch birds light on the rail to pull resources for their nests. 

We're very excited and grateful to Wild Birds Unlimited for taking an interest and agreeing to sell our products for us. Make sure you stop by to pick one up and support the store (and the farm!). They're rustic and affordable, and they'll be a great addition to your back yard.

Ever picture the perfect setup, only to realize you didn’t have everything you needed? I do that all the time; after all, I’m a newlywed, and we’re still working on stocking our house.

In light of my husband’s birthday earlier this week, I whipped up some key lime cupcakes with cream cheese frosting — his favorite. I wanted to arrange them nicely on a cake stand on the coffee table so he’d see them when he got home. There was only one problem: We don’t have a cake stand.

It’s one of those things that you just don’t need…until you need it.

So I did a bit of rummaging, and I realized I could easily create a clever cupcake display simply by using what I already had. I took a serving platter, three of our Mason jar glasses (a wedding gift more affectionately known as “redneck wine glasses”), and turned them upside down. They were a nice height and the perfect size for holding a some sweet baby cakes.

It’s easy to get caught up in wanting more things — like a cake plate, for instance. But you know what’s even better than finally getting those things? Living simply by learning how to use what you have creatively.

Now if you’ll excuse me, it’s time for a cupcake.