Yes, even sugar can be stylish!

Today I'm joining in with Kimba over at A Soft Place to Land for her ever-fabulous...

I know what you are thinking. "Seriously, designer sugar? Now that's just plain pushing it!"

But let me explain, this sugar is not only fabulous, it also brings back fond memories. When we lived on the Island, it seemed like nearly half of our church members came from South Africa. I suppose Vancouver Island is the warmest place in Canada, which is why the Africans might have migrated to such a place, but it truly was uncanny. Year later, I can still pick out a S.A. accent from miles away, and at one time, we could even hear the subtle differences in the accents, based on where they originated from in S.A.

I'm sad to say I've never personally traveled to South Africa, but I have heard much about the beauty of the place. Of course I've also heard many sad, and scary things, which is why many of these people are now living in Canada. But I still long to see this beautiful land that not only boasts of incredible natural beauty, but also, a sad, yet fascinating history. This country has produced many lovely, wonderful, inspiring people who have had huge impacts on our lives.

One particular couple played a huge role in our lives, both pre-marriage and once we were married. Rob would consider them to be his Christian parents, as they really did "take him in" as he began his Christian walk many years ago. They held a bible study at their home each week. We both attended their bible study, and have many fond memories of being in their home. Times of great encouragement, love, and believe me, lots of laughter! (An example would be the night that we all had to make our best barnyard animal noise. The best part? It was a warm summer evening, so the windows were all open, and I'm sure the neighbors were convinced we were all absolutely crazy! Too funny! Definitely a good small group ice breaker).

We would usually meet at their home around 7:00pm, and I remember at one point you'd glance up at the clock, only to realize its 10:30pm! It felt like you had just gotten there. Their hospitality was amazing. They not only welcomed you into their home, but they made you feel at home. Their home was beautifully decorated with items from around the world, collected on their travels. It was cozy, and warm. Their couches nearly sucked you in, they were so cushy. There was always a giant spread of food, generally goodies. There was always coffee, of course, (regular and decaf, which I always thought was a special touch), and any tea under the sun.

To top it all off? This sugar. Sugar that I have never seen anywhere else other than in their home. Its seriously so simple, but its just so fun, and adds a special touch to any afternoon tea or morning cuppa.

Behold, designer sugar...
*The spoon they actually brought back from S.A. for me a few years ago. Not only did they have fab sugar, they also had these adorable little teaspoons with wire and beads wrapped around the handle. I was over the moon when I got 12 teaspoons and 12 dessert forks of my own!

So how does one "make" this most fab sugar? Well, Rob and I made a trip to the infamous Bulk Barn last week, and he noticed the bins filled with sugars in various colors. So I got to thinking, and figured I could make my own Funky, Fabulous, South African sugar!

I bought a good amount of white sugar, then little bitty bits of various colors.
Red, orange, blue, purple, pink.

Its chunkier than normal sugar. I'm guessing the proper sugar-like term might be granulated?
Then I took a glass, and sprinkled in a bit of each color...

Mixed 'er up...
Voila! Doesn't that just look so purdy in my little surgar bowl?
The best part? My new uber-fab sugar cost me exactly $1, and I have enough to do another batch of it! So there you have it folks, 50¢ for some super cute sugar that is totally original and unique. This could be sweet as a Christmas gift in a little mason jar with a bow! Just check out your local grocery store's bulk bins or go to a cake decorating shop where colored sugars will abound!