The Sweet Life

Hellloooo

2011-10-27T09:51:00.003-05:00

Let me introduce myself…..
My name is Alisa

Blog Slacker Extraordinaire

So much has happened since we last talked,

but I suppose it is a little late to to talk about our summer plans at this point

seeing as it is now FALL

like I said……S.l.a.c.k.e.r

Well, if there is anything that would make me want to put actual thoughts into a post and hit publish, it would be this beauty {and the wonderful lady behind the camera}.
Emily from Life in the Light Photography did such a wonderful job on Britt’s senior pics. She was so easy to work with and she knows the way to a girls heart is through unlimited wardrobe changes and bubbles. It was a great experience and I would highly recommend her if you are in the Kansas City area.

Seriously….the proof is in the proofs people.
hee hee

What do you think? Which one is your favorite?
We had such a hard time choosing. I wanted to buy all 65 proofs she showed us.

You can check out more of Emily’s work over on her blog Life in the Light {love that name} Stop by and tell her “Hi”. Tell her how awesome she is! She would love it, I’m sure.

When the world stopped turning

2011-09-11T15:03:00.000-05:00

My heart breaks all over again for those lost on September 11th, for their families and friends and for our country. You will not be forgotten.

Cool {free} drinks

2011-07-11T16:59:00.002-05:00

If there is a day deserving of a free slurpee,

it is definitely today.
Or yesterday.
H.O.T.

Did you get yours?

Menu Plan and Menu Plan Printables

2011-07-05T09:25:00.003-05:00

Happy belated Independence Day!!
Honestly, it just never quite felt like the 4th of July to me.
In my head it shouldn’t be July yet so how can it be July 4th, right?
I know I am weird and I’m ok with it.
On a positive note, since it IS July, my Birthday is next weekend. yeah!
I can deal with that. I made it another year!

I have been horrible about making a menu plan lately. Summer just kills my desire to cook or plan. There is no consistent routine in the Summer and things I do plan sometimes don’t work out.

That is why I thought this Summer Menu from Cleanmama was absolutely genius. It’s repetitive each week, but not as repetitive as say “Taco Tuesday” and “Spaghetti Sunday”, etc. I just can’t repeat that often, it would drive me nuts and I think my family might revolt.

I found this last night so I plan on working on my own version of the Summer Menu this week, but for this week I do have a regular old plan.

Monday~ We had slider party for the 4th

Tuesday~ Grilled Chicken with Black Bean and Corn Salad and parmesan noodles

Wednesday~ Slow cooker pork chops, Brown rice and Salad

Thursday~ Kelly’s overnight chicken, mashed potatoes and green beans

Friday~ Salmon Patties, Macaroni and cheese and Peas

Saturday~ Chicken lime tacos, saffron rice and black beans

Sunday~ Leftovers for lunch, BLT’s for dinner

I have been fairly boring about my menu plan lately and I just write it out in my little notebook and post it here, but it could be so much cuter. There are so many cute menu/shopping printables out there in blogland. Here are just a few you could use.

The Sister Café

The Idea Room

Tip Junkie

Organized Home

This is a whole menu system from BHG that uses labels printed on magnetic paper. So organized.

How about you, is it harder for you to keep a plan in the summer? Easier? I would love to know I am not alone.

Almost over

2011-06-30T01:06:00.002-05:00

Baseball season is almost over

Corban had his last game of the season this week.
It was the first year his team has been very successful and it was sooo much more fun than the last few years. I’m kind of sad it’s all over.

Before one of the last games of the season the team met up at a nearby Sonic for ice cream. We had to move to another Sonic when the first one announced they were out of ice cream. What? seriously, no ice cream in the middle of the summer?

Josiah still has a few more t-ball “games” left. I use the term “game” very loosely. There is no score keeping, no outs and everyone gets a home run. Ya know, so everybody feels good about themselves. Ha! At least he is having fun.

I won mother of the year award this week when I completely forgot about picture day. I just snuck in behind the photographer and snapped my own pic.
I always hate feeling like I have to buy those silly pictures anyways. $15 saved. I might have to forget next time too.

Am I the only one that feels it is silly to buy all those sport pictures?

The Chocolate Chip Cookie Challenge

2011-06-28T14:16:00.008-05:00

My sister is in the midst of The Great Chocolate Chip Cookie Challenge.
She has already tried 3 recipes and has another 4 to go {I think}.

She might not be done with her challenge, but I’ve already declared the winner!

I admit that I only tried one of the recipes,
but it is by far the BEST chocolate chip cookie I’ve ever made.
So, to me, it’s the winner.
They are soft and chewy in the middle and crisp on the edges.
just perfect.

Oh, and it’s the weirdest way to make cookies. ever. you’ll see.

America’s Test Kitchen’s Perfect Chocolate Chip Cookie

Ingredients
1 3/4 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
14 tbsp unsalted butter
1/2 cup granulated sugar
3/4 cups packed dark-brown sugar
1 tsp salt
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 large egg
1 egg yolk
1 1/4 cups semisweet chocolate chips

Directions {all of my changes are in orange}

1. Adjust oven rack to middle position and heat oven to 375 degrees. Line 2 large (18- by 12-inch) baking sheets with parchment paper {I used my silpat}. Whisk flour and baking soda together in medium bowl; set aside.

2. Heat 10 tablespoons butter in 10-inch skillet over medium-high heat until melted, about 2 minutes. Continue cooking, swirling pan constantly until butter is dark golden brown and has nutty aroma, 1 to 3 minutes. Remove skillet from heat and, using heatproof spatula, transfer browned butter to large heatproof bowl. Stir remaining 4 tablespoons butter into hot butter until completely melted.

3. Add both sugars, salt, and vanilla to bowl with butter and whisk until fully incorporated. Add egg and yolk and whisk until mixture is smooth with no sugar lumps remaining, about 30 seconds. Let mixture stand 3 minutes, then whisk for 30 seconds. Repeat process of resting and whisking 2 more times until mixture is thick, smooth, and shiny. Using rubber spatula or wooden spoon, stir in flour mixture until just combined, about 1 minute. Stir in chocolate chips and nuts (if using), giving dough final stir to ensure no flour pockets remain {I did ALL of this and used a timer}

4. Divide dough into 16 portions, each about 3 tablespoons (or use #24 cookie scoop). Arrange 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets, 8 dough balls per sheet. (Smaller baking sheets can be used, but will require 3 batches. {I made my cookies a bit smaller and got about 2 dozen from one batch~ I used about 2Tbsp of dough per cookie. They ended up about 4” wide after baking}

5. Bake cookies 1 tray at a time until cookies are golden brown and still puffy, and edges have begun to set but centers are still soft, 10 to 14 minutes, rotating baking sheet halfway through baking. Transfer baking sheet to wire rack; cool cookies completely before serving. {that is total nonsense! go ahead and eat one while they are still warm from the oven}

You should totally try these, they are so wonderful!

Do you have a favorite recipe for chocolate chip cookies? share please!

this post is linked to: Weekend Wrap-Up

Sweet Words

2011-06-26T00:43:00.000-05:00

via piterest

We’ve been busy

2011-06-24T11:10:00.003-05:00

building castles in the sand.

we are home from Florida and it still looks like the contents of my van exploded in my house. So….I’m busy trying to put things back together so we can get on with real life. It’s such a drag coming back to reality. really.

I’ll be back in blogland soon.

oohh, and my old sewing machine expired right before we left {still the best $15 I ever spent at a garage sale} so I had to order a new one. It comes tomorrow…can’t wait. I hope to be sewing up a storm next week.

What have ya’ll been up to this week?

Sweet Words

2011-06-19T10:02:00.003-05:00

Because your love is better than life,

my lips will glorify you.

I will praise you as long as I live,

and in your name I will lift up my hands.

~Psalm 63: 3-4

Source: lovely-little-things.blogspot.com via Mirlah on Pinterest

Strawberry Spinach Salad

2011-06-17T07:00:00.006-05:00

I love me some red, ripe juicy strawberries.

They are so great this time of year so now is the time to make yourself this wonderfully tasty, addictive salad.

It has it all.
sweet
tangy
chewy
crunchy

Oh, I’m getting hungry just thinking about it!

I know there are many variations on the strawberry spinach salad out there, but here is what I put in mine. It’s the best, if I do say so myself.

1 Package prewashed baby spinach
1lb Strawberries, sliced
Chopped pecans
Raisins {I used golden, but either is fine}
Red Onion, sliced very thin
Feta cheese, crumbled
Poppy seed dressing {I like Brianna’s}

I don’t really measure anything, I just toss what looks good together and then I devour it :)

It makes a very pretty salad for a shower or party. I wait to assemble until right before serving and then I toss the salad with the dressing. It always gets rave reviews.

Enjoy!

this post is linked to: Tasty Tuesday, Cast Party Wednesday

Caramel Brownies

2011-06-15T07:00:00.002-05:00

Not gonna lie, these will not be found on any weight loss plan.
They are super rich, but oh so good.
That is exactly why I NEVER {ok, maybe once} make them to keep at home.
I try to make them only when I have people to share them with so I can eat one, call it yum and not hate myself for eating the whole pan.

But, if you do ~~hoard~~ keep some for yourself, just go right ahead and cut them into small squares and store them in the fridge. They taste like a little bite of heaven when cold. just sayin’….they. will. not. disappoint.

Caramel Brownies

2 German chocolate cake mixes
1 can evaporated milk {not condensed}
3/4 cup butter {1.5 sticks}, melted
1 16oz bag of caramels or caramel bits
6oz chocolate chips

In a large bowl, mix the 2 cake mixes with the melted butter and 1/2 of the can of evaporated milk. Stir until mixed well and moist.

Spread 1/2 of the cake mixture into a greased 9x13 pan. Bake for 6-8 minutes at 350.

Meanwhile, combine the caramels and the remaining evaporated milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Stirring often until the caramel is completely melted.

When the first layer of your cake is done baking, pull it out and spread the caramel mixture over the top. Sprinkle with the chocolate chips. You will then top the caramel and chips with the remaining cake mix. It will not be spreadable. So, with clean hands, take a scoop of the mix and flatten it in your hands and place it on top of the caramel layer. Continue until you have used all the cake mix. You may have holes where there is no cake mix, but that is ok, it will fill in as it bakes. Bake at 350 for an additional 15-20 min.

Cool, cut and enjoy!!

this post is linked up to: The Weekend Wrap-Up, Tasty Tuesday

What’s not to get?

2011-06-13T07:00:00.000-05:00

My husband just doesn’t get it.
The lure of the cupcake, that is.

I personally don’t understand what he doesn’t get.
A perfect little piece of cake all wrapped up just for one.
Seems perfectly, deliciously obvious to me.

Lucky for me, my kids totally get it!
They have yet to turn down an offer to go to the new shop up the street.
It’s called Sugar Rush and the cupcakes are just delightful.
Way better and bigger than the other shop in town.
The first one up above is the Chocolate Peanut Butter, the second was Strawberry Lemonade and Josiah’s was the Hot Fudge Sundae cupcake. All super delicious.

Do you have any cupcakeries in your area? What is your favorite flavor?

Courage

2011-06-09T07:35:00.000-05:00

The ability to do things that one finds frightening.

The ability to confront fear in the face of pain,danger, uncertainty or intimidation.

"Courage is not the absence of fear. It is acting in spite of it." Mark Twain

Hello

2011-06-07T11:22:00.004-05:00

Is anyone still reading this little ol’ blog???
May was so busy with activity {worse than December if you ask me} and I really just wasn’t feelin’ it so I took a little unplanned bloggy break.

But HEY, I’m BACK!!! {and now you are stuck with me}
So there ya have it! I’m here and you are stuck. I win!

Thanks to those of you who have left comments and emailed me to make sure I was ok. Y’all are what make this blog thang so much fun and I appreciate your concern. I have the BEST readers!

So……what have I been up to you ask.

Josiah had his school program and did such a great job singing and smiling.
I spent 6 years taking kids to preschool here and I will miss the wonderful teachers.

We are nearing the end of baseball season. Corban’s team is doing really well this year {haven’t really been able to say that before}. He managed to end up on a team where the coaches see their work with the kids as a ministry and said as much at the first practice. Wow. love that! It has made for a very enjoyable season so far.

Little man gets a .25 tootsie pop every. single. game.
Keeps him still for a little while.

Josiah started t-ball last week. He was so excited~ crazy excited. Like drive you nuts, can you please stop talking about it kind of excited.

I have also been sewing like a mad woman. Mostly Etsy shop orders, but I did manage to make myself a new little bag last weekend. I love it! The pattern is from I think Sew.

It’s the retro bag. I {heart} the pleats on the front and that it’s a crossover bag and that my hands are free when I carry it. No more hurting shoulders from a heavy purse.

Speaking of the shop, I put in on vacation yesterday!! As much as I love making things for other people, I decided I needed a little break. Sales have really picked up lately and I am forever grateful to those of you who have shown your confidence in me and bought one of my cases. However, I need a little rest and relaxation for a few weeks so the shop is closed until June 25th. You can still place an order, but it won’t ship until after the 25th. If you placed an order before. June 5th, I will finish your order and have it shipped by tomorrow.

Speaking of relaxation, I can’t wait to be sitting on this beach this summer. dreamy.

How about you? any relaxation in your future?

Oh, goodness

2011-05-03T15:07:00.004-05:00

It has been a whirlwind of crazy around here lately!
I think it is starting to slow down a bit. I think….

Does anyone else feel like they are always in go mode with absolutely no time to slow down and enjoy things? I feel like I am always thinking “next week will be more peaceful” and somehow that next week never gets here . Maybe I am doing something wrong. Please tell me if you know a secret I don’t. I would hug you right through this computer screen if I could! seriously.

I don’t really have much to say because my brain is maxed out, but I thought I would share some pics of what we have been up to.

So ready yourself for random and disjointedness ahead~

We had an Easter egg hunt at church for the first time this year and the kids loved it. It was short and sweet {literally} and the weather was beautiful!

All my handsome guys trying to smile whilst I made them stare directly into the sun :)

Capturing all three together and smiling is so rare these days. I love this.

More egg hunting at my parent’s house.

My niece, Maddy, had her first egg hunt, but I think she really liked the mulch better than the eggs.

We had a lovely day celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ!

Next came prom!!!

Pretty girls!

My grandmother passed away on Good Friday {she was 95} so we have been busy attending memorial services this week. I say plural serviceS because the funeral home totally messed up everything and failed to mention until the morning of the burial that the death certificate was never signed. Who does that?

We also switched over our phone, internet, TV service to another company to save a bundle of cash each month. So far, it’s been a miserable mess. Our internet service has been spotty at best. uugh!

Ooh, I would like to thank whoever the lovely soul is who sent over 3000 visitors to my etsy shop yesterday. I haven’t figured out who you are, but thank you! I think you are particularly awesome!

All in all, I know I am blessed beyond measure. I feel grateful to have a wonderful family, a risen Savior and a home with spotty internet/phone/ TV coverage. Things will never be perfect this side of glory.

"There are far, far better things ahead than any we leave behind."
— C.S. Lewis

Happy May Day!!

2011-05-01T10:20:00.001-05:00

Source: mypansyeyes.tumblr.com via Holly on Pinterest

Strawberry Cake {with cream cheese frosting}

2011-04-21T23:40:00.005-05:00

Oh, how I do love this cake!

I’ve made it a few times for Easter so I thought I would share just in case someone was looking for an easy, delicious dessert idea for this weekend.

Strawberry Cake

1 box white cake mix
10oz bag of frozen strawberries {thawed}
1 small package {3oz} strawberry gelatin mix
4 eggs
2/3 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup milk

In a small bowl, use a fork and mash the strawberries. Set aside 1/2 cup of the strawberries for use in the frosting. Mix the remaining strawberries, cake mix, gelatin mix, eggs, oil and milk together in a mixing bowl and mix on medium speed for 2-3 minutes.

You can either make a layer cake or a 9x13 cake. If you choose to make a layer cake, grease and flour your cake pans. If you are making a 9x13, cooking spray will work great. Fill your pans and bake at 350 for about 20 minutes for layer cakes and 25-30 minutes for a 9x13.

Strawberry cream cheese frosting

8oz cream cheese {softened}
6 Tbsp. butter {softened}
1/2 cup of reserved mashed strawberries
1 tsp. Vanilla extract
1.5 lb. powdered sugar

In a mixer, whip the cream cheese and butter until fluffy. Add the strawberries and vanilla. Mix until completely incorporated and fluffy. With the mixer on low, slowly add the powdered sugar. Add more or less as needed to achieve a nice spreading consistency.

Frost your cooled cake and enjoy!!

this post is linked to: Hodgepodge Friday, A Little Knick Knack, Show and Share Day, Inspiring Creations, Weekend Wrap-up

Not your average Chicken Panini {and my menu}

2011-04-18T22:18:00.006-05:00

Why does Monday have to come so quickly?
Are your taxes done?
Me too….2 days ahead of time.
That’s early for me.
I’m a bit of a procrastinator.
I need a deadline.
There is always something better to do than taxes, right?

Enough about my issues and onto what I shall feed my fam this week.

Monday~ Grilled chicken and zucchini kabobs with a thai sauce, jasmine rice and grilled pineapple……….and it was super yum :)

Tuesday~ Ham and cheese au-gratin, salad and mandarin oranges {didn’t ever have this last week..it happens}

Wednesday~ Taco salad at church {I think}

Thursday~ Boneless Buffalo Wings {on the recommendation of my friend Shannon} and salad

Friday~ Skillet enchiladas {made by my hubby}, chips and salad

Saturday~ BBQ ribs, scallop potatoes, green beans

Sunday~ Homemade Cinnamon rolls for breakfast, easy sandwiches for lunch and Easter dinner with my family.

**************

I’ve been wanting to share this sandwich with you that we have enjoyed a couple times. I thought you might want to try it next time you have some leftover chicken.

The first time we had these Panini's I used some leftover baked chicken and they were super good. The second time {what is shown in the pics} I used some rotisserie chicken. It was still good, but I really enjoyed the taste of the baked chicken better. I also think grilled chicken would work great. I probably wouldn’t use rotisserie chicken again. just sayin’.

Not your average chicken panini:

Italian or sourdough bread sliced thin
Olive oil
Thousand island dressing
Leftover chicken, chopped up
Coleslaw {creamy, spicy…whatever floats your boat}
Havarti cheese slices {Swiss would work too}

I like to get them all put together before I start the cooking. Lay out the bottom piece of bread for each sandwich and drizzle with olive oil. I spread it around good with my fingers {no better tool created}. Turn each piece over once it’s coated with oil.

On the other side of the bread slices, place some Thousand Island dressing and spread it around good.

Top with your chicken

Next comes a good amount of coleslaw

Finally I top it off with some Havarti cheese slices.

I like this kind, but it can be hard to find sometimes so Swiss cheese will work if that is what you can find.

Top with your final piece of bread and drizzle it with olive oil too. Spread it around really well so it’s all coated.

I like to use my griddle that fits on the stove top. You could also use a cast iron skillet or an electric griddle. Use what you have. It will all taste good in the end.

I use medium heat so the sandwiches don’t cook too fast without heating all the way through. It will take about 4-5 minutes per side.

Once I get them on the griddle, they have to be weighed down. Don’t laugh at my ways. I use what I’ve got and it works for me. I don’t need no fancy smancy panini press.

Look at those grill marks baby {and NO panini press}.

You should really try these. They are delicious!

How about you, do you have any favorite sandwich combos?

this post is linked to: Tasty Tuesday, Tempt my tummy Tuesday

Whatever

2011-04-16T22:56:00.001-05:00

Got dirt? and menu plan for week of 4.11.11

2011-04-11T13:53:00.004-05:00

Hello friends!
Did you have a good weekend?
We did! It was hot and steamy here, but good.
Oh, and it was too short.

Our neighbor recently excavated a bunch {a Big bunch} of dirt and grass in his backyard so he can put in a patio. We were in need of dirt to level out our yard so all the rain doesn’t pool in spots and take for–ev-er to dry out. A match made in backyard heaven.

They had dirt.
We needed dirt.

We got dirt.
A big ol' pile in the middle of our backyard.
After a couple hours of good hard labor {by the men of course},
I made my contribution and went to pick up pizza.
Everyone is happy. Our neighbor doesn’t have to haul off quite as much dirt. We got dirt we needed and everyone left with a full belly full of pizza. Happy indeed.
Now I just hope we can get it all spread out before it rains.

On to more important things….what will I feed my family this week?

Monday~ Pizza on the grill {bbq chicken…yum}

Tuesday~ Mediterranean Chicken with salad and fruit

Wednesday~ Chicken spaghetti at church

Thursday~ Sweet sliders, fruit and cheesy corn

Friday~ Marinated grilled chicken, parmesan noodles and veggies

Saturday~ Ham and cheese au gratin, salad and mandarin oranges

Sunday~ out for lunch and leftovers for dinner

What’s on your menu this week?

A new case for your sunnies

2011-04-09T01:16:00.002-05:00

A little more sunshine each day means you are probably using your sunglasses a bit more. If you are anything like me, they often get lost and scratched in the bottom of my purse.

That really bugs me.

So I decided a while ago to make myself a little sunglass pouch.
I added a little ruffle because everything is sweeter with a ruffle, right?
I figured I couldn’t be the only one that disliked having my glasses all scratched up so I picked some super cute fabrics and made some for my Etsy shop.

I love the little ruffle.
It is just enough.
Enough to be girly without being over the top.

Wouldn’t your sunnies be so happy in one of these sweet little cases?
I think so too.

Blessings~

A beautiful day

2011-04-06T08:24:00.003-05:00

Did you think I had simply disappeared?
Well, no such luck.
Simply busy with life.

In the last week we have had freezing temps and 90° weather. We have seen snow, crazy wind, rain storms, and tons of hail {more than I have ever seen in one storm….ever} It has been a crazy start to spring to say the least.

But yesterday,
yesterday was a beautiful day.
Everything was dry and the wind was wippy but not too bad.
68° and perfect.

So we stopped by the park on the way to run some errands. We enjoyed the blooming trees.

The boys had fun playing with our old fashioned toys. I don’t know what you call these other than sticks and rings, but they are lots of fun. Note Josiah’s face as proof.

You basically use the sticks to launch your ring into the air and then catch it with your sticks again. You can play by yourself or as a group. It was so sunny that it was hard to see the ring once it was launched. I’m not complaining though.

Josiah decided the other day {when it was raining} that he was ready to do the zip line All. By. Himself. He is so so timid in large motor activities, but he did it and was so proud of himself.

Love the concentration on his face.

The boys loved finding these huge acorn tops. I love those sweet little hands.

It was a beautiful day!

*******

Keep your face always toward the sunshine
and shadows will fall behind you. ~

Walt Whitman

Menu plan week of 3.28.11

2011-03-28T17:57:00.003-05:00

Wow, is it really Monday again? I did not have my act together last week so I had no menu and our disorganized dinner time showed it…oops. I think we ate out more than twice. ouch to the budget.

Well, I {at least partly} have my act together this week. Yeah. A menu!

Monday~ Chicken tortilla soup

Tuesday~ Teriyaki Chicken with brown rice and broccoli

Wednesday~ Meatball sandwiches at Church

Thursday~Asian wraps with creamy peanut sauce

Friday~ Cook out Burgers for my Mother in-law’s b-day {her request}

Saturday~Spaghetti and meatballs with salad and garlic bread

Sunday~ Youth group fundraiser dinner after church {super yum!}

oh, and I am so making this Snickerdoodle cake. Can you say yummorific? I can, and that is just what it looks like. I think I will make it for church Wednesday night so I don’t eat the whole thing by myself, in one sitting. {I am so very wise}

What are you all making this week?

And can I just say this whole snow in the springtime deal is not one of my favorite things. amen.

Sweet words

2011-03-26T21:12:00.001-05:00

source

Cupcakes that taste homemade {from a mix}

2011-03-24T15:28:00.003-05:00

I like to make desserts from scratch most of the time.
I think they simply taste better.
Especially cakes and frosting.
Amen?
Amen.

However, sometimes a mix is just……um, EASIER and FASTER
{and can taste just as good}

So, I have a secret I want to share with you.
You might already know it, but I bet some of you don’t. I didn’t.
Tidy Mom posted this way back in 2009 {here} so I’m a little late on processing the info. I’m slow.

The secret is all about how to take a box cake mix and make it so much better. Moist and delicious, unlike most box mixes.
Homemade taste~ that’s what we want!

Homemade taste from a mix:

Take any box of cake mix, any flavor, but preferably a name brand one.
Add to it~
1 cup of water
1 stick of melted butter {not margarine}
3 eggs

Beat on low for 30 seconds and medium speed for 2 minutes or until nice and thick and fluffy. Fill your cupcake holders 2/3 full {I use an ice cream scoop~perfect size scoop}. Bake at 350 degrees for 15-20 minutes.

I used a white cake mix for the cupcakes shown above. I wasn’t sure if it would work since you generally use egg whites so it will stay nice and white, but it worked just great. I also added about a 1/4 cup of cream of coconut to the batter for my coconut cupcakes. I then topped them with my cream cheese frosting {below} and rolled the tops in some coconut. simply delicious.

Cream Cheese Frosting:

8oz block of cream cheese {room temp}~ I use low fat
1 stick of butter {room temp}
1 tsp real vanilla extract
1.5 lbs powdered sugar

Cream the butter and cream cheese together until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla and mix well. Slowly add the powdered sugar and until it is all incorporated and then whip on high for 30 seconds.

Do you have any secrets for using mixes that taste homemade?

this post is linked to: Crazy domestic, A Little Knick Knack, Fingerprints on the Fridge, Hodgepodge Friday, It’s a Keeper, Foodie Friday, Weekend Wrap up, Tasty Tuesday

Ruffled Rosette Pillow Tutorial {from a t-shirt}

2011-03-18T14:47:00.003-05:00

You poor souls.
Why on earth do you even put up with me?
On Monday, yes Monday, I said I would post this little tutorial the next day.
Well, 4 days later here I am.

I am nothing, if not completely and totally unreliable.
What can I say, It’s spring break week here. kids. enough said.

So on with my little pillow tutorial.

If you didn’t see this post on the swirled ruffle pillow, you might want to start there. It will give you the steps to make the actual pillow and how to make your ruffles.

This post will show you how to use your ruffles to make a completely different looking pillow. Ok, maybe not completely, it still is ruffled and made from a t-shirt. Movin’ on……

Here she is.
I {heart} her.
Just lovely.

You will start off by making your pillow cover and ruffles just like in this post, but without stitching any ruffles on it. Go ahead and sew the opening shut and you are ready to make some rosettes to place on your pillow.

I made 4 big rosettes and 2 smaller ones. The larger ones take a couple strips of ruffle and the smaller ones only take one. So about 10 should do it. Keep in mind it will depend on the size of your pillow. Mine is only a 14” pillow so if yours is bigger, you might need more to make it look balanced.

For each rosette you will need a circle of felt or fleece cut into about a 3” circle. It doesn’t need to be exact {or perfect} it will be hidden and any extra will be cut off. I used my high temp glue gun. I like the high temp because it adheres better and faster, but be careful or you might not have any finger prints left when you are done {not that I would know}.

First I took each strip of ruffle and rounded off the corners at each end so it would have a softer look.

Take your first ruffle and fold it in half lengthwise with the stitching on one side, creating a V shape with the ruffle. The stitching side is the part you will be gluing down.

You will start with a dot of hot glue in the middle of your felt piece.

Grab the end of your first ruffle and kind of swirl it around the end to make the center of your rosette. I like to put my finger through the middle of the ruffle {the V part} and push the stitching part onto the glue.

Once the center is adhered, make another short line of glue around the center part in the direction of your ruffle. {did that make any sense at all?}
You will just keep going around in a circle with your glue and your ruffle, pushing it into the glue to adhere it. {this is way easier to do than to explain….promise}.

Here she is after one ruffle has been added. If this were one of the small rosettes I needed, I would take my scissors and cut around the bottom of the felt to remove any extra that wasn’t glued down and I would be finished.

BUT, this is one of my big rosettes, so I am going to add one more ruffle to make it even bigger. I just start adding it where I left off with the other one.

Here she is all finished and ready to apply to my pillow.
If there is still any bit of felt on the back side that hasn’t been glued, now would be the time to cut any of that extra off so you won’t be able to see it on the pillow.

To adhere the rosettes to your pillow, simply lay them out in a design to your liking and hot glue each one to the pillow. Make sure you get plenty of glue around the edges so they don’t peel up. Nothin’ worse than peeling rosettes on your pillow.

I actually thought this pillow was a lot easier to make than the other one. I love making the rosettes. You could use them in lots of different ways.

Thanks for puttin’ up with me.
I am so thankful for each of you that comes to visit and leave comments.
You really do make my day!

Have a beautiful weekend!

This post is linked to: Weekend Wrap-up Party, Dittle Dattle, Mad Skills, Sew cute Tuesday, Take a look Tuesday , The Lettered Cottage

Swirled Ruffle Pillow {from a t-shirt} Tutorial

2011-03-14T20:22:00.002-05:00

The other day I was in Target with my daughter and we were oohing and aahing over all the pretty throw pillows they have. Of course the thrifty side of me immediately thinks “I could totally make that for soooo much less”.

So that’s what I did.

This was the pillow we saw that we both really liked, but I wasn’t going to pay $20 for it. $20 isn’t a terrible price, but I knew I had a couple of pillow forms at home so I would only need to make the cover.

We wandered on over to the clothing section and I found these two long sleeve t-shirts on clearance for $5 each. I picked 2 that matched her bedding perfectly {in XXL}. $10

I am using the green one for this pillow. I’ll show you the purple one tomorrow.

Let’s get started and I’ll show you how I made this cute swirled ruffle pillow.

First off, I used my rotary cutter and cut the bottom hem off the t-shirt.

I measured my pillow insert and figured it was 14” square so I cut my fabric exactly the same. Normally, you would want to add fabric for your seam allowance, but since the fabric is knit and I wanted it to be tight, I cut it to the same dimensions as the pillow. I also cut it so I left one of the side seams intact. Less to sew later.

I then cut off one of the sleeves.

I cut off the sleeve hem and the seam that runs under the arm so I could open it up and cut some strips for my ruffles.

I cut as many strips as I could {I got 6 from one sleeve}. I cut each one 2” wide and as long as the sleeve would allow.

I made my ruffles like I made them here. High tension, long stitch length.

All ruffly. cuteness.

I took my ruffles and laid them out how I wanted them on the pillow. I only used 5 of the ruffles.

When I pinned them down I simply overlapped the ends of the ruffles. I laid the one on the bottom flat and tucked under the end of the top one. Hopefully you can see that in the picture.

Looks pretty good from the top. Ruffles hide lots of imperfections.

I started with the bottom ruffle since the end of it goes under the long middle swirl.

Make sure you adjust the tension and stitch length back to normal before you stitch the ruffles down. I used lots of pins to hold the ruffles in place while I stitched them down to the front of the pillow cover.

All stitched down and lookin’ sweet.

I then flipped the case with right sides together and stitched the 2 sides together and the third side leaving a 6” opening for the pillow insert.

Trim your corners at a diagonal.

Turn right side out and push corners out with something that isn’t too sharp. I like to use a chopstick. Insert your pillow carefully, trying not to pull to hard on the opening {knit fabric with rip easily where it’s been stitched}

Pin your opening together and use a slip stitch to close your opening. Here is a good tutorial on how to do a slip stitch.

All done. I made the pillow cover so that my slip stitch was at the bottom of the pillow. It makes me feel better since it never looks completely perfect.

My daughter loves it and I think it turned out pretty cute. I’ll show you the purple one tomorrow. It’s a little different, but still ruffled.
*****UPDATE********

If you would like to see the tutorial for the Ruffled Rosette Pillow, it can be found here.

this post is linked to: Tutorial Tuesday, Tutorials and Tips Tuesday, Dittle Dattle, Creation Corner, Today’s Creative Blog, Spring Fling, Somewhat Simple, Frugalicious Friday, Crazy Domestic

Menu plan week of 3.14.11

2011-03-14T11:25:00.002-05:00

Hello there Monday morning!
You came an hour too soon according to my internal clock.
I’m happy for the extra hour of daylight in the evening,
but not so much that I had to loose it in the form of sleep. ick.

Did you all have a good weekend?
We did for the most part. Quiet, but good.

Today is the first official day of our spring break.
Too bad the forecast looks like this

We are in the middle there, by the peacock .
Neat.
I shouldn’t complain too much, friends of ours farther north got about 12”.
Hello Spring……where are you?
I know it will melt off quickly, but seriously…..the first day of spring break?
My teenage daughter thinks shopping will help cure the blues.

*************

Well, I am keeping it pretty easy this week as far as a menu goes. Britt won’t be here too much and I am hoping to get a few things done around here housewise so not much extra cooking time.

Here is what I have planned for the week:

Monday: Jerk Pork chops with carribean rice {didn’t have this last week}

Tuesday: Cheeseburger casserole, salad, cheddar biscuits

Wednesday: Spaghetti casserole at church {I am cooking for about 70}

Thursday: Reuben sandwiches

Friday: Teriyaki Chicken, brown rice and sugar snap peas

Saturday: Not sure on this one yet, whatever Corban chooses for his birthday dinner.

Sunday: Hashbrown and egg breakfast skillets with fruit

What do you have planned for your menu this week?

Sweet Words

2011-03-13T16:20:00.002-05:00

Love this etsy shop. You can find this print here.

Worth tumbling about

2011-03-11T21:17:00.002-06:00

I had quite a few awesome things I tumbled this week.
I thought I would share.

The Joyful Chaos talks about finishing Leviticus {we are currently working through a sermon series on Leviticus so this is perfect timing}

love this from Jesus Freak

This cinnamon pull apart bread looks so yummy from Hometown Girl

Here’s a little lesson on Buttercream from Confessions of a Cookbook Queen

Love this print and Little Bit Funky shows you how to make a fabric covered photo mat

I will definitely be trying these BBQ chicken sandwiches and oven fries from Smashed Peas and Carrots

Natty by design has an awesome Roman shade tutorial

Sarah at Clover Lane talks about simplifying. Lots of good questions to ask yourself.

I hope you have a beautiful weekend.

Menu plan week of 3.7.11

2011-03-07T14:57:00.001-06:00

I need some new recipes.
I feel like I make the same 15 things over and over.
To me, that’s boring.
I realize others might find comfort in that, but not me.
I like to try new recipes.
I really like to read cookbooks.
You might remember this post where I professed my ~~love~~ obsession with cookbooks. Based on the comments, it sounded as if I was not alone.

Not too long ago I purged over half of those cookbooks, keeping only my favorites. It seems silly to keep books that I only use for 1 to 3 recipes. We just don’t have that much extra space around here so I got rid of them.
Instead, I like to go to the library and check out the ones that look interesting. Here are a few I have right now.

The top two are mine, but the rest are borrowed.
At first glance, I didn’t think I would find much in the Robin Rescues Dinner, but I sat down last night and found quite a few to try. There are tons of good old recipes in the Trisha Yearwood cookbook. I got too tired last night to make it through the Don’t Panic one, but I love the first one so I’m sure there will be good stuff in there.

I’ve added a couple of new recipes to our menu this week. I’ll let you know if they were tasty or not.

Monday~ Chipotle BBQ chicken with macaroni and cheese and broccoli salad

Tuesday~ Spaghetti with salad and garlic bread

Wednesday~ Indonesian dinner at church

Thursday~ Jerk pork chops with Caribbean rice {new}

Friday~ Plum marinated chicken with roasted carrots and baked potatoes with chipotle butter {new}

Saturday~ Potato soup, Peasant bread and salad

Sunday~ Chicken and Swiss Panini {new}

I am really looking forward to trying some new recipes.

So, do you like to switch it up with new things or does your family like to stick with the old tried and true recipes?

Happy things

2011-03-07T10:56:00.001-06:00

My weekend was full of happy things
Friday we skipped school and hung out with a friend for her birthday.
It was rainy and stormy
but still good and happy
plus we had cake. yum.

Friday night we had Corban’s awards ceremony for Basketball.
This is no ordinary awards ceremony.
This is a church packed with over 700 basketball players and their families
ready to hear the gospel preached by a guy doing tricks with basketballs.
The kids love it.
I think the adults do too.

Saturday I slept in until 10 am.
I can’t remember the last time I slept until 10. dreamy.
Britt was at a friends house.
My mother in law came over and took the boys for a movie and sleepover.
My hubby and I enjoyed the quiet.
did you hear that?
exactly. nothing.
bliss

I opened my email to find that my little ol’ blog had been chosen to be a part of Faith Blogs.
Never heard of it?
It’s brand new.
You should check it out. soon.

Saturday night hubby and I went out to dinner.
We sat in a booth for 2.
Just 2.
That was really sweet.
The food could have been better
but the company could not.
My husband is the best and girl could ask for.

find this print here

Anything happy happen to your weekend?
I would love to hear about it.

This post is linked to: Simple as That

Peanut Butter Bars with Chocolate Icing

2011-02-28T22:34:00.001-06:00

These little gems are just plain yummy and perfect for a crowd. I love a recipe that makes a lot since I make desserts for church every week.

Plus~ chocolate and peanut butter together…..is there a better combo?
I think not.

Peanut Butter Bars with Chocolate Icing

3/4 cup butter
3/4 cup brown sugar
3/4 cup sugar
3/4 cup peanut butter
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla
3/4 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1 -1/2 cups flour
1 -1/2 cups {quick} oatmeal

In a large mixing bowl cream together the butter, sugars and peanut butter until fluffy. Add the vanilla and then add the eggs one at a time, making sure they are completely incorporated. Add the soda and salt and mix well. Slowly add the flour and oatmeal and mix on low just until incorporated. Do not over mix or your bars will be tough. You can stir in the flour and oatmeal by hand if you like. The mixture will be sticky.

Spray a jelly roll pan {15x11} with cooking spray. Spread the mixture evenly in the pan. This is definitely the trickiest part because the mixture is pretty sticky. I put a plastic baggie on my hand, spray it with cooking spray and use that to press the mixture in the pan. You could also wet your hands a little so it doesn’t stick so much. Do what works for you.

Bake at 350 degrees for approximately 12-14 minutes. Let cool and finish with the following.

Quick and Easy Chocolate Icing

1/4 melted butter
3 Tbsp cocoa pwdr
1/2 tsp vanilla
3 Tbsp milk
2 cups powdered sugar

mix all until smooth adding more sugar or milk to get a desired consistency.

So yummy! Share and enjoy {it’s ok~ it makes plenty}

This post is linked up to: Alissa’s Tasty Tuesday, Tempt my Tummy Tuesday, Tasty Tuesday

Menu plan ~ Week of 2.28.11

2011-02-28T13:15:00.001-06:00

Hello there Monday!
Can you believe it’s almost March?

February is always such a blur. I know it’s the shortest month, but really can that extra day or two missing really make it seem that much shorter? perhaps it does or maybe it’s all in my head.

Ever since the start of the new year I keep telling myself that I am going to get back in the habit of posting my weekly menu. I have a few people who ask me about this regularly and I generally try to make a joke and change the subject. Not very helpful of me, now is it? These people aren’t asking because they want to know what we are eating, but because they need help and inspiration in making their own menu. {I totally get that} Since I want this blog to be helpful and inspiring and continuing to share my weekly menu is such a simple thing to do, I am going to do my very best to post it weekly. Here is what we are having this week:

Monday: Lasagna roll-ups, salad & garlic bread

Tuesday: Chipotle BBQ chicken with homemade macaroni and cheese & peas

Wednesday: BBQ meatballs, Hashbrown casserole, green beans & rolls {at Church}

Thursday: Orange chicken stir fry with rice noodles & egg rolls

Friday: Oven baked chicken chimichangas & mexican rice

Saturday: Chicken Spaghetti, salad and fruit

Sunday: leftovers for lunch and hashbrown and egg skillets for dinner

I also want to make some chocolate cupcakes and try out this frosting recipe. Everyone says it’s yummy, but I’ve never tried it so I’ll let ya know how it is. It sure looks tasty.

What is on your menu this week? Have you tried any new recipes lately? Were they good?

this post is linked to orgjunkie

Ain’t nothin’ but a thing

2011-02-25T13:35:00.001-06:00

I know just yesterday I said how much I dislike commercials, but this is so stinkin’ funny. It just makes me giggle. Enjoy!

Happy Friday!!

To Do

2011-02-24T15:07:00.001-06:00

Some things for me to do…..someday

To bake {and eat}:

My daughter loves neopolitan ice cream so I think she would probably {love} this cake by Sweetapolita.

These Orange Poppy Seed muffins from Make it Do look delicious. This might be on the to do list for tonight.

To Sew:

These fabric bins could certainly be useful around here….and cute! You can find the tutorial at The Sometimes Crafter.

I would love to have one or two of these casserole carriers. I make desserts for church every Wednesday night and I always do it at the last minute so they are HOT. Two of these carriers would be super handy. The tutorial is at 2 Little Hooligans.

To create:

I may never actually accomplish this, but I think this memo board is just so cute and unique it makes me smile. If I ever find a random crib spring I will definitely know what to do with it. The tutorial on how to make it is over at Pure + Lovely.

To think about:

It was about 9 years into our marriage before we made the splurge to have cable TV. I still think it’s a bit ridiculous to pay so much for things I/we mostly have no interest in. We have our favorite shows, but we generally DVR them to watch when it’s more convenient and we can fast forward through the commercials. It’s almost painful to sit through commercials anymore. Simple Mom had a great post on ways to watch your favorite shows without paying the cable bill. Lots of great ideas to think about.

Does anyone else start thinking about things they want to change in their lives and just get overwhelmed with the sheer number of things on the list? I do. So then I do nothing. Effective? Not so much. This is why I love Annalea Hart’s One Little Change. It’s all about changing one little thing at a time to make a big difference. I want to do this. I’ll be back to talk about this more, but for now I am contemplating what my First Little Change will be.

What is on your to do list?

Hello weekend!

2011-02-18T13:52:00.001-06:00

I’m dreaming of spring. It has been absolutely beautiful here the last couple of days. The boys have been wearing shorts. That’s pretty rare for February around here. I’m prayin’ for no. more. snow.

I hope you have a lovely weekend doing things you like.
I’m headed out for a retreat with some friends.

I’m looking forward to the quiet on the car ride there.
Is that sad?

Of course, I’m also looking forward to spending time with friends and learning more about the Lord.

Happy Friday!

photo source

Happy {Heart} Day

2011-02-14T21:19:00.001-06:00

I hope you had a lovely day filled with things and people you {heart}.

I spent the majority of my day at the doctor’s office with my little man. He is not feeling well. I almost took him to the emergency room last night because he just wasn’t breathing well, but I held off because I didn’t want to over react. The doctor told me she probably would have taken him in so then I felt bad that I didn’t. Just can’t win. Over react? under react?….uugh!

Ironically, last year on Valentines we were dealing with the exact same issues and Josiah did end up in the hospital for several days. We are praying it doesn’t end up the same way this time.

The rest of the day was spent on school and waiting for prescriptions at Wallyworld.

We gave the kids some little Valentine gifts, but honestly I really don’t care for the day. Forced love. Neat. I dont' want anyone to tell me they love me because they feel like they have too. no thanks. Meg said it best. I completely relate to her. We could be twinks {except I’m not as cool as her}.

My husband came home from work and fed me a chocolate from the box of candy his mom gave us. That was it and I’m good with it. I know he loves me….everyday.

Britt just handed me an almond joy. She knows the way to her mama’s ♥.

So, all that to say, there were no big goin’s on around here for the big day o’ love.

That doesn’t make it any less lovely though.
There is plenty of lovely in the ordinary day.
Plenty of opportunities to tell your sweetie and kids how much you love them.

Each and every day.

You really don’t need a special day for that.

Blessings~

photo source
>

Easy Marshmallow Valentine Treats

2011-02-09T14:25:00.001-06:00

A couple of weeks ago I was at the Dollar Tree and found some packages of cute Valentine cupcake holders and they came with a set of heart picks for only $1. Score! So I grabbed a couple of packages.

I was originally going to use them as….wait for it…..cupcakes with picks in them.

Well, I have a hard time following the rules so I did make the cupcakes for dessert at church tonight and will decorate them, but I thought the picks would be cute used a little differently.

I got some strawberry marshmallows, dipped them in some melted chocolate and sprinkled them with some little nonpariels.

It took all of about 10 minutes. Not too shabby, eh?

Then I poked those sweet little marshmallows with the heart picks and now they are all dressed and ready for church tonight.

L.O.V.E.

Have you seen the new roaster marshmallows that are as big as your head? Ok, maybe not that big, but they are about 4 times the size of a normal big marshmallow. HUGE. Yum!

I did the same with them for Josiah’s Valentine party at school. I placed each one in a clear cellophane bag {I love those bags} and tied them with a cute bow. I think we will add a little tag this weekend to make them even sweeter. I’m sure the kids will love them!

Do you have any special valentine treats in the works?

This post is linked to: Crazy Domestic, Weekend Roundup

.

When life gives you snow, make snow ice cream!!

2011-02-03T15:37:00.001-06:00

There are sweet possibilities almost everywhere you look these days.

Snow, snow, snow
Very sweet, indeed!

Not so much to play in, but sweet to eat!

Growing up I remember making snow ice cream every year. My brother or I would go out in the snow and retrieve a big old bowl of fresh clean snow and bring it inside for my mom to whip up into delicious ice cream. Such yummy memories!

So yesterday, considering all the snow we have been blessed with, we made a couple of batches and it was soooo tasty. I’m not sure how my mom made it all those years ago, but here is how we did it.

SNOW ICE CREAM

1 can sweetened condensed milk {I used fat free}
1/4 cup milk {more or less as needed}
2 tsp vanilla
Big old bowl of clean, fresh snow {at least 1 gallon}

In a big bowl add the sweetened condensed milk, regular milk, vanilla and mix well. Add the snow a bit at a time and stir well. Keep adding snow until it is a good ice cream consistency.

Dish up and enjoy!
Especially tasty with a little chocolate syrup on top :)

Extras will keep in the freezer {if you possibly have any}. I had to add a splash of milk to thaw it a little and then I gave it a good stir. It was just as delicious as when it was first made.

Blessings~

this post is linked to: Tasty Tuesday, It’s a keeper, Fingerprints on the fridge, Hodgepodge Friday, A little knick-knack, Weekend Wrap up

A wee bit blustery

2011-02-02T11:38:00.001-06:00

Hello Wednesday! We are in the middle of a blizzard and it’s a little blustery here.

I don’t think I‘ve ever been in a blizzard before. I don’t mind it so much as long as I don’t have to get out in it. and by in it, I mean like shoveling the driveway in it. Or building a snowman in it. I will stay inside, thank you very much.

This is what it looked like yesterday when the boys and I headed out to feed my McDonald’s Coke addiction. {I know, I have issues, but you probably already knew that} It was about 2pm. where is the sun?

The blowing snow was crazy. I guess that’s why they call it a blizzard, eh?

We are planning on doing some school today and staying all cozy inside. Probably drinking some hot chocolate and making some cookies. yum. Chocolate makes everything better, right?

Hey, good news…..Spring is only 46 days away!!

~~~~~~~~~~~

Josiah sings this song all the time and it makes me smile. I love this version from The Sing Off.

I totally think this group should have won. They have so much talent.

{{{Stay warm}}}

Need a little case for your gadget??

2011-02-01T14:37:00.001-06:00

well then, it’s a match made in bloggy heaven! I just so happen to have a giveaway going on over at Shabby Lane Boutique.

You could win your choice of any gadget case from my Etsy shop.

So go check it out, enter to win and then take a look around Tracy’s blog. Lots of yummy eye candy!

oooh…..and she has a coupon code available for 20% off any purchase in my shop – good through Valentines day :)

Magically Delicious & Nutritious

2011-01-31T13:40:00.001-06:00

We make breakfast for dinner every couple weeks or so and I love to make smoothies to kind of round out the meal. Everyone loves them and they feel like a special treat, but really they are super healthy.

We make ours with plain lowfat yogurt, a little bit of apple juice, a little honey and frozen fruit. Yum! You could make them a zillion different ways, but this is how we like them.

Sometimes I like to add some “secret” ingredients to up the nutritional value. I add ground flax seed or some wheat germ or both, but the thing I like to add the most is spinach.

yep, spinach.
fresh baby spinach leaves.

I like to add a couple hand fulls ~ whatever floats your boat.

If you add some blue or black berries to your smoothie along with the spinach, no one will be the wiser. It all magically blends together!

We don’t think it affects the taste at all and it really ups the nutritional value.

What do you like to put in your smoothies?? Any secret ingredients?? I would love to try some of your ideas :)

this post is linked to: Tempt my tummy Tuesday, Tasty Tuesday, Delectable Tuesday, Raising Homemakers & Alissa’s Tasty Tuesday

Sweet Words

2011-01-29T21:57:00.001-06:00

Blessings~

17…..oh, my!

2011-01-21T13:23:00.001-06:00

I am officially the parent of a 17 year old today!
I feel old.

How did the time go by so quickly? eeek!
It seems like she was 5 just last week.

We celebrated last weekend because she skipped town yesterday to go to a conference for school.

So she isn’t even here for me to hug on her.
sad.

I like it better when she is here.
She is funny and smart.
Beautiful and creative.
I could go on, but I’ll stop now.

Love you Brittney!
Happy 17th Birthday!!

Love,
Mom

It’s rough

2011-01-20T13:16:00.001-06:00

being a superhero dog on a snow day, but she tolerates it well.

50% off Amazon Gift card TODAY ONLY

2011-01-19T14:24:00.001-06:00

Hey there friends!

I just wanted to let you know that you can purchase an Amazon gift card for 50% off today .

Go check it out here.

It’s only available today so HURRY!! I don’t’ think you can beat 50% off a gift card, can you? Well, I guess free would be better, but I’m pretty sure they will never do that =)

Happy Wednesday to ya!!

blog anyway

2011-01-14T10:55:00.001-06:00

I’m pretty sure I’ve never been this quiet before.

My heart and mind are all wrapped up tight around other things lately and I’m having a hard time putting together a coherent thought worthy of an entire post.

You know what the professionals say to do when you are blog blocked??….. wait for it……..

blog anyway.

So, that is what I'm going to do.
blog anyway.
So, I’m just going to go with it….umm, kay?

warning: totally random, incoherent thoughts ahead…

________

Have you been to Foodgawker yet? oh, my! totally addictive!
The best of food and photography combined.
I dare you to go take a look and not be totally hooked.
I’ll wait while you gawk…….

I will be making these yummy looking peanut butter chocolate bars today.

_________

Funny things my little people say:

I was getting my boys into bed one night and as I was walking out the door Corban said “Mom, you are awesome, stay cool!” In a totally cheesy, Joey from friends, kinda way. Now my husband tells me to “stay cool” all the time. I’m so not cool, but it makes me giggle.

You know that feeling when your foot, leg {whatever} falls asleep and is “waking up”. Josiah calls that feeling “buzzering”. It’s a pretty accurate description, if you ask me.

__________

I ordered a new Adventures in Odyssey before Christmas and we {Corban, Josiah and I} have been listening to it every time we are in the van.
The Truth Chronicles is based on The Truth Project by Focus on the Family. It is really good and Corban is soaking it up. Josiah is a little young to really get it yet, but he listens and enjoys it.

___________

We tried to get together with some homeschool friends before Christmas for a little school party. It didn’t happen before Christmas because of illness, but we did manage to get together the week after.

We made these cute little handprint snowman ornaments that I originally saw here. The kids had fun decorating their handprints and I think they turned out pretty sweet. We still got to enjoy them on the tree for a few days since it took me forever to take my tree down. Yeah for procrastination :)
____________

I love the show Parenthood.
It drives my husband batty. sometimes.
He hates it when they have people talk over people.
I think that just makes it seem more real.
They are such a messed up family, but isn’t that really all of us to some extent?

Zeek Braverman….he is such a character.

____________

My baby sister {I say baby because she is 12 1/2 years younger than me} was the recipient of the "stylish blogger award” and was nice enough to pass it on to me. I’m not so stylish compared to her, but I’ll take it anyway. I’m supposed to tell you things about myself that you may not know, but my brain isn’t up for that right now so I’ll do that part another time.

I will list a few of my favorite blog reads. The one’s I go to first when I see them in my reader.

Quiet Life~ amazing photography and a beautiful spirit.
Living Intentionally~ A beautiful look at a mom’s life with 2 {almost 3} little boys.
Life in Grace~ truly a life filled with grace and a heart for Christ. I think the Lord is using her in amazing ways.
Eclectic Whatnot~ makes me giggle {or snort} everyday.

________

there….I did it!

I blogged anyway.
it wasn’t sooo bad.
I feel better now, how about you?

Upcoming review for CSN stores

2011-01-07T09:11:00.001-06:00

By now all of you surely know about CSN stores, right? If not, you are missing out! They have over 200 stores to shop and so many great things to choose from it’s crazy! You could choose anything from a chic leather briefcase, fitness equipment or even cute cookware!

They have been generous enough to ask me to review another project for them. I haven’t decided what to do yet, but as soon as I do I will let you know.

Happy Friday!!

Happy feet

2011-01-05T08:45:00.001-06:00

What’s even better than happy stripey feet?

Happy stripey feet with polka dots on the bottom, of course!

Happy Wednesday!

The last day

2011-01-04T10:53:00.001-06:00

It’s the last day of Christmas break.

So, for the 242nd day in row, the boys are hanging out in their jammies {underwear} playing video games, building with legos and building marble mazes. Brittney is doing what teens do best, sleeping.

It has been nice not having school work to do, but I’m ready for some sort of a schedule to work with again.

My house is a total wreck and yes, my Christmas decorations are still up. I’m going to work on that today. probably. maybe.

Does anybody else still have theirs up? You all are probably too organized and energetic to let something like that happen, huh? Tell me I am not alone. please.

Happy New Year!!

2010-12-31T22:27:00.005-06:00

1907~ The very first ball drop in Time Square, NY.

Happy New Year!!!

I pray you all are safe and happy with those you love this evening.

Many blessings~

Top 10 of 2010

2010-12-30T17:10:00.001-06:00

I’m still recovering from the tornado that hit my house last weekend. How about you?

Has anyone seen my living room floor?

At some point I hope to actually get the Christmas pictures off my camera and post a few, but for now I thought I would recap the top 10 posts of 2010.

Thanks so much for reading, you all are what make blogging fun!

10. The little laptop bag

9. Mexican Pork Bowls {aka Chipotle burrito bowl knock-off}

8. Old sweater to Valentine pillow

7. Reversible car seat strap covers

6. Sweet Owl Pattern

5. Super Easy Caramel Apple Dip

4. Homemade Baby Shower Decorations

3. Ruffled Checkbook Cover

2. Bathroom Remodel

1. Toilet Paper Pumpkins

It just makes me giggle that the most popular post involved toilet paper *hee hee* and the fact that I wasn’t even going to post this little project because I figured everyone already knew how to make these little pumpkins. Just shows you what I know. Very little, apparently.

This post is linked up to Southern Hospitality's Top 10 of 2010 party

A Digital Nativity Story

2010-12-24T11:07:00.004-06:00

Merry Christmas from my family to yours!! I pray you are able to spend the day with those you love and reflect on the perfect gift that God has given us. The gift of salvation through Jesus Christ.

Cookie day

2010-12-20T11:07:00.001-06:00

My mom, sister, daughter and I all got together for our annual cookie day on Saturday. I always look forward to this day, but by the end I’m really glad we only do it once a year.

I attempted to make Oreo cookie pops. You are supposed to be able to put a popsicle stick in the double stuff Oreos and dip them in white chocolate. what a fun gift for some of the kids, I thought.

FAIL…..I only ended up with about 5 that had sticks in them. The cookies kept braking on me so I resorted to just dipping them. kinda boring if you ask me. I wanted them to be on sticks. oh well, can’t win them all.

I also made these pretzel, rolo, pecan treats. Still one of my favorites. So easy to make and they are the perfect blend of salt, sweet and chewy. I also made some of this Toffee, but I have zero pics to prove it.

My sister took on the Ande’s mint cookies this year {bless her} They are the tastiest chocolate cookie ever created. Fudgy minty goodness at it best.

My sister also made these homemade oreo cookies. delish. The filling is peppermint and the cookie is devils food. I think I’ll go have one now.

My sister also made some little almond shortbread like cookies. I think they are my favorite non-chocolate {that’s a whole ‘nother category} cookie. Small, cute, buttery, almond= yummy!

We had lots more that we made that I never got a decent picture of. Honestly, way too many, but we will share.

What is your favorite holiday cookies or candies?

Last day for FREE HOLIDAY SHIPPING

2010-12-15T10:23:00.001-06:00

TODAY is the very last day to get

free holiday shipping

on all your purchases in my Etsy shop

THE SWEET LIFE by design

I am shipping daily if you still need any little gifts.

Enjoying

2010-12-13T15:03:00.001-06:00

Some things I’ve been enjoying

We all went to see the new Narnia movie on Friday night. To say that it was great would be a serious understatement. I thought it was a little dark compared to the first two, but Josiah seemed un-phased by the battles and serpents . He said “they aren’t real mom” when I told him I thought they were a little scary. Kids are funny.

I spent a good deal of my weekend right here. I’m not complaining one ounce. I love it.

Sunday evening we went to see the Kansas City Ballet’s Nutcracker. It was beautiful. I think it was a little different version than we had seen in the past.

My kids all bundled up after the Nutcracker. It was so cold and windy. I don’t mind it unless I have to go outside. duh.

I ordered this twine from The Twinery the other day and it finally came. Love it. The colors are so vibrant and the twine is sooo soft. I’m dreaming of all the things I can do with it. The aqua one is my favorite. What would you do with all this twine? I hate to cut into it, it’s just so pretty.

This sweet puppy, even though she makes keeping my house clean twice as difficult.

What are you enjoying right now?

Blessings~

Not in the spirit yet?

2010-12-08T16:20:00.001-06:00

Here are a couple of songs to help you out. This first one is new to me and I big fat triple heart it! Most songs written from Mary’s perspective tug at my heart…..well, because I’m a mom and I can’t even imagine. any of it.

This will be the third year that I’ve posted this next gem. because, well….it’s still my favorite Christmas song.

of
all
time

period.

{and I think everyone should hear it}

so if you are one of the two people who have been reading my blog for that long, pardon me whilst I post it again. enjoy :)

What is your favorite Christmas song?

Busy in my workshop

2010-12-06T12:45:00.001-06:00

Happy Monday!!

This little elf has been busy working on more little gift items for my Etsy shop.

I have a whole new line of gadget cases.

Perfect for your iPod, iPhone, Evo, MP3 player or tiny digital camera.

Each case is fully padded for protection and the opening measures 5” x 3” so it should fit most gadgets quite nicely.

You can check them out here.

Blessings~

We have a winner!!

2010-12-03T14:56:00.001-06:00

Yeah!!! Lady Dunbar is the winner of the $45 CSN store credit!

$45 CSN giveaway reminder…ends tomorrow!!

2010-12-02T21:05:00.001-06:00

Just a friendly reminder to enter the giveaway for the

$45 CSN store credit!!

Everyone could use a little extra money to spend during the holidays……..right?

so hurry up and go enter here

I will do the drawing Friday afternoon!!

{insert thoughtful witty title here}

2010-12-02T15:13:00.001-06:00

I’ve been working on getting some orders out the door to the post office. Thanks to all who have made purchases….they are on their way!

My house is currently half decorated for Christmas. I’m trying to keep the puppy from chewing up everything that is still sitting around waiting to get put up. fa la la la la la la

The d-o-g already bit a hole through my Christmas tree skirt I made last year. neat. It’s a good thing she is so cute!

…………………………………..

here’s a little food for thought.

**fair warning** it might sting just a little bit

You can find the full length message here.

Blessings,

New in the shop….. 15% off and free shipping!!!

2010-11-29T12:17:00.001-06:00

The Sweet Life by design

This week only ~ 15% off all orders for my readers!

+ free shipping on all orders {US residents only}

Enter the coupon code: thesweetlife

offer good thru Saturday, Dec 4th 2010.

here are a few new things I’ve put in the shop over the weekend

Set of 3 damask pocket tissue holders *SOLD*……make excellent teacher gifts!

Holiday hostess aprons…just right for everyday or hosting a party.

Set of 3 wristlet key fob keychains *SOLD* in pink and brown….great for kids and adults alike.

Holiday kitchen or bath towels *SOLD*

Happy Monday!!

Happy Thanksgiving!!

2010-11-24T20:42:00.001-06:00

Confession time….

I have NEVER cooked a Thanksgiving dinner and most of the time I don’t even make anything to contribute to the meal….gasp!

The past 11 or so years we have spent Thanksgiving out of town at my mother in law’s. She loves to cook and really likes to do it all herself. I was always her helper though. I chopped and stirred and whatnot, but not much more than that.

Well, she moved closer to us this past summer so we {her included} will be spending Thanksgiving with MY family at my parent’s house. seems weird.

Since my mama won’t let me off the hook like my mil does, I’m busy cooking up my contribution to tomorrow’s big meal.

I’ll be making some of Paula Dean’s sweet potatoes {for the life of me I can’t find this recipe online to share with you},

and some of this cranberry salad. {I assure you, mine won’t look this perfect}

and these seriously tasty brussel sprouts

We aren’t having our big dinner until tomorrow evening so we thought it would be fun to have a big brunch in the morning.

I am making some of PW’s cinnamon rolls, eggs, skillet potatoes and my mother in law is bringing some country ham.

yum.

I’m happy just thinking about it all.

I have so much to be thankful for. There are so many people that would be happy to have only a fraction of all the food I just listed off.

I am truly blessed by a wonderful family, great friends, food to eat, a roof over my head and most of all, a God that loves me like no one else could. flaws and all.

Blessings~

$45 CSN Giveaway!!! {just in time for Xmas}

2010-11-23T22:45:00.002-06:00

{{{{{{THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED}}}}}}

you can find the winner here

Hey there bloggy friends!!

The generous folks from CSN stores are back and they want one of YOU to have a $45 store credit!!! I’m sure you have heard of them by now, but if you haven’t you should really check them out. They have over 200 online stores and you can buy anything from toys to TV tables to a new chic handbag or maybe even some new cookware.

If you need it, they probably have it!

So….I know you are probably all busy with the holiday weekend coming up, but please take a couple minutes to go look at CSN stores, come back here and leave a comment letting me know what you would get.

Would it be for yourself or maybe a gift???

I will do a random drawing for the winner on Friday Dec, 3rd. That way you will have plenty of time to use your store credit for a little holiday shopping.

Here is how you can enter this giveaway

1st {mandatory} entry: Visit CSN stores and let me know what you would get.

More ways to receive additional entries:

1. Become a follower of The Sweet Life via Google friend connect {in the sidebar} or let me know you already are.

2. Subscribe to my feed via RSS or email {in the sidebar} or let me know you already do.

3. Tweet it {linking back here} and leave a link to your tweet in the comments

4. Post it on Facebook and link back here.

5. Make a blog post {or put it in your sidebar} about the giveaway and link back here.

Leave a separate comment for each entry and make sure you leave your email address in your comment if your profile doesn’t have an email linked to it.

This giveaway is limited to US and Canadian residents. The $45 store credit does not include any international shipping fees.

Entries will be accepted until the drawing is complete on Friday, December 3rd.

Fresh Fruit Friday

2010-11-19T12:42:00.001-06:00

Our local Sutherlands hardware store has Fresh Fruit Friday the Friday before Thanksgiving and the Friday before Christmas. They haul in tons of beautiful fresh fruit and sell it off at low low prices.

I always try to go.

you know….if I remember.

Josiah has no preschool on Friday and our homeschooling is pretty limited on Friday so I hadn’t even showered yet this morning when I realized……

Aaack, it’s Fresh Fruit Friday…..we must go! No time to make my self presentable. oh well, people won’t mind because they won’t be looking at me anyways. Not with all that pretty fruit to look at and all.

I think we did pretty well. I was a little disappointed they didn’t have any Gala apples this year. Can’t have everything, I suppose. Here is what I did get:

10lb bag of russet potatoes {not shown}
1 Big ol’ pineapple
7lb Fuji apples
2lb Tangerines
10lb Red delicious apples
4lb Sweet potatoes
2.5lb Pears
2 Big grapefruits
4lb Bananas
5lb Granny smith apples

All for $25…pretty good, I think.

I also picked up some roasted peanuts {in the shell} as well as some raw peanuts to make some homemade peanut butter…..num :)

I’ll be making lots of homemade applesauce and a pan of these apple bars with the granny smith apples. I’m also making sweet potatoes for Thanksgiving. It’s a Paula Deen recipe and it has apples, sweet potatoes and dried cranberries in it. Seriously looking forward to it.

If you have Sutherland’s Hardware stores in your area you should so go snag yourself some fruit today.

this post is linked to frugal fridays

A little window shopping

2010-11-18T22:17:00.001-06:00

I ♥ all of these sweet items I found on Etsy.

1. acorn ornaments 2. Copper and silver hoops 3. Temple garden wristlet
4. Pear canvas bag 5. Be Unique print 6. Infinity scarf
7. Weeds and Wishes print 8. Crochet brooch 9. Selvage coin purse

I would love to shop completely handmade for the holidays, unfortunately they don’t sell legos or nerf guns on Etsy.

How about you, will you shop handmade for the Christmas?

Menu plan week of 11-15-2010

2010-11-15T11:29:00.001-06:00

Morning friends! I hope everyone had a lovely weekend.

I’ve been thinking a lot lately on my less than enthusiastic attitude about meal planning and cooking dinner lately. What to do, what to do?

Have any of you ever tried the once a month cooking technique? Also referred to as freezer cooking. I have 3 cookbooks with all freezer recipes {because I’m slightly obsessive} so I thought I might give it a try.

Now I need to come up with an entire day to dedicate to cooking.

It’s better than every night…….right?

My kitchen isn’t very big so the idea of trying to cook everything on one day seems a bit much, but I’m willing to give it a try. And what better time to try than the holidays. Time always seems so fleeting this time of year so knocking a big thing like making dinner every night off the list is quite appealing.

All that said, I was SO very excited when I opened my email this morning to find today’s Groupon. It’s for Social Suppers, a place where you go and make up meals to take home and freeze for later. I’ve always wanted to try this, but it seemed a bit too pricey for me.

However, with today’s Groupon {in Kansas City anyway, check your city for your local deal of the day} it is only $35 for $70 worth of meals. Yeah! half off….sign me up! They have locations in Leavenworth, Lenexa and Prairie village so go check it out. You only have today to sign up, but the coupon is good until May so you have plenty of time to use it. Anybody want to go make your meals with me? I’ll be going to the Lenexa location….very soon.

***Update: Apparently, the Social Suppers deal is already sold out, I hope you got one if you wanted it.

Since I obviously won’t have all my freezer meals ready today and I still need to feed my family this week, here is what I plan on making:

Monday: Ranch Style Chicken with roasted potatoes and green beans

Tuesday: Spaghetti and meatballs, salad and garlic bread

Wednesday: BIG Thanksgiving dinner at church….yum!

Thursday: Chicken and wild rice soup

Friday: Tacos, refried black beans and mexican rice

Saturday: BBQ meatballs, mashed potatoes and corn

Sunday: Terriyaki chicken {in the slow cooker}, brown rice and sugar snap peas

What are you going to cook up this week?

Do any of you do freezer cooking?

This post is linked to orgjunkie

2010-11-13T16:28:00.001-06:00

I hope you are having a sweet weekend!

Thank You

2010-11-11T12:45:00.001-06:00

Thank you to all the military men and women of the United States of America for your service. The sacrifices that you and your families make each day on our behalf are amazing and very much appreciated.

Many blessings~

Silence is golden…

2010-11-10T14:51:00.001-06:00

That’s what they say anyways.

I’m pretty sure it doesn’t apply to keeping up a blog though.

The last week has vanished and I haven’t even stopped in to say hello. Shame on me.

I did go out of town for a couple of days. A college visit with Brittney and a few of her friends and then onto Ozark Christian College for a high school youth group retreat event thingy.

It was a great time, but I was super tired when all was said and done. Even the extra hour of sleep Saturday night didn’t help much. I am old….and sleepy.

Brittney {right} and a couple of her best friends. As much as I hate that these girls are getting closer and closer to college, I can’t wait to see how the Lord is going to use them to further His kingdom.

They were also inducted into the National Honor Society last night. We are so very proud of Brittney and her friends. {She thinks we are sooooo annoying when we tell her that, but we really are proud of her.}

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

On a totally different note, I completely missed my 2 year blog anniversary last week. ooops! I have a couple of giveaways lined up for you all so be sure to check back.

I for the life of me can’t understand why ya’ll read my gibberish, but I’m sure glad you do. It makes this whole bloggy thing more fun than just talking to myself. There are currently 445 google followers and well over 600 subscribers to my little ol’ blog.

That sincerely amazes and humbles me! Thank you.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

One more thing.

Are you following along with the 12 days of handmade Christmas?

They are currently on day 10 so there are already lots of great ideas for gifts you can make. Go get your creative self over there and make something! I know I’m going to.

“Creativity is contagious. Pass it on.”
~ Albert Einstein

“When we engage in what we are naturally suited to do, our work takes on the quality of play and it is play that stimulates creativity.”
~ Linda Naiman

Blessings~

U-Create’s November feature!!!

2010-11-02T10:17:00.001-05:00

As far as crafty blogs go, there aren’t any I can think of that have more awesome projects han U-Create. Kari simply has some of the most creative crafts over there as well as other sister sites for parties and kids crafts, etc.

Soooo……. that’s why I’m super excited that Kari selected my Christmas Tree Skirt Tutorial from last year as one of her feature projects for November’s “Create with me”.

Basically, you make one or both of the featured projects and submit your pictures to Kari so she can put them in her gallery by the end of the month. Easy enough. Just be creative and get a project or two done that you probably needed to do anyway.

I look forward to seeing everyone’s take on my Tree Skirt at month end!

The Great Pumpkin Dessert

2010-11-01T19:37:00.001-05:00

I promise this is the last pumpkin recipe I will post this year {I think?}

I made this last week for our Wednesday night dinner at church and had several requests for the recipe so I thought I would just share it with everyone.

The filling in this dessert is very pumpkin pie like {only better}, but the topping is what makes it way better than pie!

The Great Pumpkin Dessert

1 can {15oz} pureed pumpkin ~ not pie filling
1 can {12oz} evaporated milk
3 eggs
1 cup sugar
4 tsp. pumpkin pie spice
1 box yellow cake mix
3/4 c. butter, melted
1 cup finely chopped pecans

In a bowl, mix the first 5 ingredients with a whisk until smooth. Transfer to a greased 9x13 pan. Sprinkle with the dry cake mix, drizzle with butter and top with the nuts.

Bake at 350 degrees for approximately 45 min-1 hour or golden brown on top and set in the middle.

Serve warm with a little whipped cream on top!

Enjoy and try not to eat it all in one sitting. Refrigerate leftovers {if there are any}.

this post is linked to Mouthwatering Monday, Tuesday at the table, Tasty Tuesday, Tempt my Tummy Tuesday, Anything related, Raising Homemakers

Menu plan week of 11-1-2010

2010-11-01T11:16:00.001-05:00

I always feel like the first day of November really kicks off the holiday season. I know it’s not official or anything, but I already feel the pressure of the holidays beginning. I don’t care for that feeling.

Mostly because I currently feel like everything around here is very chaotic. Doing homeschool has left me with very little time to do some of the things that need to be done around here. I just haven’t found a rhythm yet and it shows. It feels very difficult to get everything accomplished.

Simply going grocery shopping seems like a challenge. I used to always make out my menu and go shopping while Josiah was at preschool on Monday morning, but that doesn’t really work any more. We try to complete as much schoolwork while Josiah is at school as we can {for obvious reasons} so we can’t go shopping. This is messin’ me all up and our meals are suffering.

Not that we don’t eat….obviously, we do. It’s just not as organized as it once was and it is driving me batty. So, here I am trying to get organized and the best way for me to do that is to post my menu. Without it my family might not eat.

Monday~ Chicken, swiss and stuffing casserole, corn and salad

Tuesday~Meatball sandwiches and salad

Wednesday~ Dinner at church – I’ll be taking the Great Pumpkin Dessert {recipe coming tomorrow} and a one pan fudge cake

Thursday~ Chicken stroganoff , green beans and fruit

Friday~ Going to a youth group event {looking forward to this}

Saturday~ Pizza

Sunday~ Cranberry pork roast, homemade applesauce and salad

Does anyone else feel completely chaotic and stressed at the mere thought of the holidays looming around the corner?

If you homeschool, how on earth do you get it all done {and maintain your sanity}?

This week {catchy title, eh?}

2010-10-29T16:59:00.001-05:00

This week has gotten away from me
One day it’s Monday and then I look up and it’s Friday
how does that happen?
it seems worse every week.

Josiah requested to take off his training wheels so we did
we also took off his pedals so he can learn to balance first
he doesn’t have a very fast reaction time so balancing and pedaling at the same time would be a bit much. Once he learns to balance while coasting we’ll put them back on and he’ll be good to go….hopefully :)

We are still adjusting to our new family member. She is sweet, lovable and messy. Let’s just say there has been more laundry and carpet cleaning in the last week than I’d like. Good thing she is sooo cute!

This stuff is addicting. So happy it’s healthy.

I went all out and cooked my own pumpkin for the first time ever. The boys begged me to do it. It really was easy so if you’ve never done it, you really ought to give it a try. I didn’t know it could taste so much better than the canned stuff, but it does.

Here’s the easy way to cook one:

wash your pumpkin {a small pumpkin pie pumpkin}
slice open and clean out the middle/seeds etc.
chop it up into big pieces {I cut mine in about 6 pieces}
place them in your slow cooker and turn it on low
cook on low for about 3 hours or until tender all the way through
take it out and remove the peel {mine just slid off}
let it cool and then purée in your food processor or blender

You can fill your slow cooker as full as you like, just so long as the lid shuts tight.

I used a couple cups of the cooked pumpkin and made a half batch of pumpkin butter. delicious! I put the rest in freezer bags for future use. I used a 6lb pumpkin and got about 6 cups of pumpkin.

I was making a felted wool flower for a friend last night and came up with a new style that I really like. They are kinda big and floppy and cute. I really ♥ the grey one. It’s very pretty in person but, it didn’t photograph well so you’ll just have to trust me.

I’m looking forward to a lazy weekend full of trick or treating, more concert going and generally being with my family.

Do you all have anything special planned this weekend?

{more pumpkin love}

2010-10-25T23:19:00.001-05:00

I know, I know your probably thinking “enough already with the pumpkin!”

Well, I just can’t let it go. These recipes just look so yum, I thought you needed to see them.

With me??
umm k, let’s drool

I actually made these pumpkin scones a few weeks ago and they were divine!! Go check out The Brown Eyed Baker for the recipe.

Bake at 350 shares the recipe for this pumpkin cream cheese.
creamy dreamy!

Our Best Bites shares this pumpkin pie milkshake recipe and I want one…now!

oh my, these homemade pumpkin pop tarts are sure to be a hit with the kids {big and small}. Find the recipe at Joy the Baker.

Last, but not least, this pumpkin butter looks so delish! I have it on good authority that it’s wonderful! You can find the recipe at Gina’s WW recipes.

Have you tried any new pumpkin recipes this year? was it yum?

Love by Lite Brite

2010-10-21T20:42:00.001-05:00

David Crowder band is brilliant. If you ever have the opportunity to see them live….go!! You won’t be disappointed. promise

{If you subscribe by email you may need to click over to see the video}

Send me a sign
A hint, O whisper
Fill me with life
'Cause I am listening
Come break the quiet
Breathe your awakening
Bring me the light
'Cause I am fading
Surround me with the rush of angels' wings

Shine Your light so I can see You
Pull me up, I need to be near You
Hold me, I need to feel loved
Can You overcome this heart that's overcome?

You sent a sign
The hint, O whisper
Human, divine
Everyone is listening
Death laid low
Quiet in the night is stirring
All around the rush of angels

O the wonder of the greatest love has come

Shine Your light so all can see it
Lifted up, 'cause the whole world needs it
Love has come, what joy to hear it
He has overcome, He has overcome

this post is linked to Tidy Mom

Homemade English Muffins

2010-10-20T14:43:00.001-05:00

I’m not really a huge fan of traditional English muffins, but my hubby is so I decided I would try and make some at home versus buying the ones laden with corn syrup and trans fat.

I made mine a bit too small so we ended up with approximately 35 of them. They are well over half gone in less than 48 hours so I would say they are definitely a hit.

English Muffins

2 cups milk {warm, not hot~ about 110 degrees}

1 Tbsp dry yeast
2 Tbsp sugar

1/3 c. olive oil
2 eggs
1 tsp salt
6-7 cups flour
corn meal for dusting

I like to proof my yeast so I don’t waste my ingredients if its bad so I start out by adding the yeast and sugar to the warm milk.
Let it sit for about 10 minutes and it should like be all perky and bubbly like this.

In a large mixing bowl combine the yeast mixture, olive oil, eggs, salt and about 5 cups of flour. I used my stand mixer for this. Once it’s combined add flour 1/2 cup at a time until the dough clears the side of the mixer. I added all 7 cups plus a little, but it will depend on your flour, weather, etc.

I kneaded this in my mixer for about 6 minutes on medium speed. Knead longer if doing it by hand. Once your done kneading, transfer the dough to a large greased bowl and cover with a damp towel. Stick it in a warm spot and let rise.

Once your dough is double in size sprinkle your counter with corn meal and place dough on it.

Using your hands, press the dough out to about 1/2 inch thickness. Using about a 3” circle cutter {I used a biscuit cutter and it was really too small, but it worked} cut out your muffins.

Place on the counter or a cookie sheet to rise for about 10-15 minutes. They should be not quite double in size. Don’t leave them too long or they will be very difficult to bake all the way through without burning.

Heat your griddle to about 300 degrees. Mine doesn’t have a temp setting since it goes on my stove burners so I just set them on Med-low. You don’t want the heat too hot or they will get too dark before they cook through. I used my griddle and my cast iron skillet. Both worked just great!

Cook them for about 8 minutes per side. Possibly a little longer if yours are bigger than mine.

{ignore all the stuff in the background…..keep your eyes on the prize people!}

There ya have it.
A delicious breakfast treat.

Fry up one egg, fold it in half, top with a smidge of grated cheese on a toasted muffin. yum.These are very good and I would encourage you to try them. They were easy to make and so much tastier than any store bought ones.

I will say that if you are looking for a true English muffin with tons of airy holes and a spongy texture this one might not fit the bill for you. They are a little more dense.

If you are looking for a spongy texture with lots of nooks and crannies I would suggest you try out Alton Brown’s recipe. It looks good, but I don’t have the rings to make them. Once I amass enough of the rings, I will definitely give them a try.

Enjoy!

this post is linked to Raising Homemakers

Izzy

2010-10-18T23:58:00.001-05:00

She is just the sweetest thing

A friend of ours was needing to give one of their puppies away and we just happen to be needing a puppy {or so the kids have been telling us for at least the last year} so, you do the math.

1 puppy needs a home
1 home needs a puppy
voila…we have a new puppy!

We are so blessed to have been given this wonderful pup. Thank you so much to Jane and her family for letting us have her. She is so well mannered and great with the kids. Plus…..BIG plus….she hasn’t had an accident inside yet.

{I realize by saying that, she will automatically have one within the next 24 hours. Shame on me for mentioning it. I’m already regretting it.}

The kids are having a blast with her and as an extra perk, the boys are keeping their toys out of the living room floor. I do realize we have only had her for a little over 24 hours and this will probably come to a screeching halt eventually, but I’ll count it a blessing for as long as it lasts. I currently have the boys believing that she will devour anything that’s left out.

She may, she may not, but they aren’t willing to risk it.
won’t you join me in a little happy dance?!

Wish me well in keeping up with the accidentlessness {huh, spell check doesn’t think that’s an actual word…silly} we have enjoyed so far.

Do you have any dogs? what kind?
I’d love to hear about him/her/them :)

Blessings~

New Makeup bags complete

2010-10-16T11:40:00.001-05:00

I finally got all the kinks worked out on my triangle makeup bags.

I ♥ them!

They have so much room inside and they open nice and wide so you can see everything easily. I hate fishing around for stuff so that’s important to me.

They are about 9.5” x 4” and 2.75” wide at the base. The sides are straight which makes for a cute little triangle shape.

and of course, the bags just wouldn’t be complete without a little pleated ruffle. The perfect feminine touch.

They are up in the shop if anyone is interested.

What have you all been working on this week?

this post is linked to: Weekend wrap-up

Misc. Randomness {is that redundant?}

2010-10-14T15:01:00.001-05:00

I seem to have nothing major to share this week, but I have lots of random thoughts so here goes:

I got a sweet new ride last weekend, new to us anyways.
It’s shiny and blue and still a minivan, but I’m ok with that.
It’s been 5 days and it still smells new…that won’t last long.
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I’ve been making a bunch of these cute little bags to put in my shop.
Hopefully I’ll have them up tomorrow. I've added a little pleated ruffle, shortened them and made them a tad taller. love them.
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Have I ever told you what an awesome husband I have?
I do. He’s the best!
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My friend Christy brought me the Mystery of History to church last night and I’m very excited to get started with it. It combines biblical and secular history together and is great for a wide age range so Josiah can work along with us.
Thanks Christy!
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I’ll be hangin’ with these guys tonight {and some teenage girls :)}
can’t wait.
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I think this ministry is amazing…..check it out.

Blessings~