This challenge was to create a monochromatic design. I had just taken the perfect photo...a bottle of my home-made vanilla. I've been making my own vanilla for over 10 years now, started when a friend gave me a bunch of vanilla beans for my birthday. I gift it to my sister and my friends usually as a Christmas present. It's easy to make—all you need is beans, alcohol and a bottle. (l typically use vodka for gifts, but I use bourbon and/or spiced rum for mine. The bourbon's great in chocolate treats and the rum in full-flavored baked goods.) To make: split 5-7 beans in half open slightly, place in bottle then fill the bottle with your alcohol of choice. Keep stored on its side in a cool dark place for 6-8 weeks, turning weekly to distribute the seeds.

Oh, I don't typically buy expensive beans—I got my latest batch of 10 from Costco for $17.60—which is a reasonable price.

Used one of Anna's new template.

Thanks for looking.