Mandy off the Radio

Back on the Blog Horse

2011-10-03T17:34:00.000-07:00

It has been so long!
I am so glad to get back to blogging....I've missed it. I am not going to lie, I've noticed a lot of my friends/co-workers getting back into blogging and it made me want to start up again. So I totally followed the crowd on this one - not ashamed to admit it :)
I am not claiming that I will have a lot of wise words to share everyday...but it will feel good to get some of the crazy stuff in my brain out onto the world wide interweb.
I made lasagna tonight. I haven't made lasagna in forever...probably because I used to make it ALL the time and my family got super sick of it. It was to the point where if I mentioned lasagna, my boys would start whining. So we took a lasagna break....a year break. I made one tonight and it was raves all around. Taking a break from something can make you appreciate it.
Maybe if I take a break from exercise I will appreciate it more...doubt it. Maybe it doesn't work for everything :) just lasagna and blogging :)

5 Helpful Tax Hints!

2010-03-24T14:16:00.000-07:00

Planning to do taxes soon?!
Taxes are due in less than a month and if you are doing them yourself....you may want to check this out!
There are a bunch of helpful hints for things that you may be missing...and it may be costing you money.
There are things here that I have overlooked - so don't make the same mistake. Enjoy the info!! :)

http://www.shine.yahoo.com/channel/life/five-commonly-missed-tax-write-offs-1172601/;_ylt=Am.qD1mMlqtpk6SA0daLW5NdbqU5

5 days to a more organized kitchen!!

2010-03-16T07:37:00.000-07:00

We have been talking about this all this week on the show :)

It's Spring Cleaning Time - and if your kitchen is like mine...it needs some TLC in the organizational department.

I found this and thought it was an easy breakdown of tasks so you could do a little bit each day.

I am posting all of the tips in case you want to work ahead...or tackle it all in one big bite this weekend!

5 Days to a More Organized Kitchen

Day 1 Move the monsters. Reassign large or rarely used appliances (turkey roasters, bread makers) to the garage or basement. “Make items earn their real estate in the kitchen,” says Deniece Schofield, author of Kitchen Organization Tips and Secrets.

Day 2 Face the madness. Pull out all kitchen items and group them (dishes, silverware, pans, cookbooks). Toss damaged items; set aside extras to donate. Once storage areas are empty, measure them and make a list of containers to buy.

Day 3 Find storage. But before you do, “break away from what you think a kitchen should look like,” says Joe Provey, author of 1,001 Ideas for Kitchen Organization. “It will enable you to do more with the space.” It worked for Julia Child:Her kitchen, now at the Smithsonian, was a testament to how to rethink that room. Could you put a lazy Susan atop the fridge? Hang hooks inside a pantry door? When you restock everything, include this new storage.

Day 4 Create stations. “Keep things where you use them,” Schofield says. Have a jones for java? Arrange coffee, mugs, spoons, sugar and the coffeemaker together on a counter tray. Love to bake? Store items you’ll need in a movable butcher block.

Day 5 Add polish. “Ah, the joy of clean surfaces,” says Norris. Make your newly organized space look even nicer: Put fresh flowers or a big bowl of colorful fruit in a nook.

Sleep Dash...wait Sheep Dash!

2010-03-07T19:36:00.001-08:00

Did you get enough sleep last night??

I could probably use 2 hours extra every night...but that is a different story :)

Before you grab your coffee...try this fun quiz to see if you got enough sleep last night. It tests your reflexes and your hand eye coordination - things that should be pretty good if you got enough sleep!

I am not gonna lie...I tried this at 9pm...and I failed miserably the first six times :) I am not one that likes to quit though so I kept trying and eventually did pretty decent...though I do not think that was how it was suppose to work :)

It comes from the bbc....it is fun and a great Monday challenge!

Sheep Dash

Later kittens!

Super Yummy Superbowl Recipes!

2010-02-05T04:09:00.000-08:00

Looking for something to make or take to your Superbowl party this Sunday?

Have some ideas for you - something sweet and something savory!

Choose your favorite or make both :)

Mandy's Homemade Brownies (the recipe she found online) :)

Ingredients
1/2 cup butter
1 cup white sugar
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon baking powder

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour an 8 inch square pan.
In a large saucepan, melt 1/2 cup butter. Remove from heat, and stir in sugar, eggs, and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Beat in 1/3 cup cocoa, 1/2 cup flour, salt, and baking powder. Spread batter into prepared pan.
Bake in preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. Do not overcook.

Mandy Tip: Sometimes I add dark cocoa powder or even chocolate chips for richer brownies...you can frost them - but you won't need to...they are SOOOO good - you will never make box brownies again!!

That was the SWEET!!! Now here is the recipe for the SAVORY fans!!

Seans Super Duper Superbowl Dip

1 brick of cream cheese 1 16 oz. container of sour cream
1 package of mexi/taco blend shredded cheese
1 small jar of taco sauce (taco sauce, not salsa)
1 packet of taco seasoning

Blend the cream cheese, sour cream and taco seasoning. Spread the concoction inside an 8x8 square pan. Pour jar of taco sauce over creamy mixture then top with cheese. Cover and refrigerate until it’s party time! Serve with tortilla chips.

Reduced fat cream cheese, sour cream, and cheese works just as well.

People will freak out over this. Guaranteed. When you tell them how easy it was, they will hate you. Also guaranteed.

French Puffs of Goodness!

2010-01-05T05:11:00.000-08:00

I think that these are the best treat I have ever had.

I received some of these for Christmas and my family didn't even know the name we just called them sugary dough balls of yumminess. When I finally asked my friend their "official name", I found out their called "french puffs"....oh my goodness you are going to LOVE these!

They are perfect for breakfast...ok anytime they are delicious ENJOY!!

Recipe for French Puffs....I double this by the way :)

French Puffs Recipe!

Stuck in Newark!

2010-01-05T04:46:00.000-08:00

Cool stuff!
Music Artist Josh Wilson (his big song is "Savior Please") was stuck in Newark with lots of other people over the New Years Weekend. Josh made the best of the situation and got everybody to sing along with him...it made for a cool video!
Enjoy

Back to Blogging!

2010-01-05T04:44:00.000-08:00

So after the move...and the holidays...I am finally back!! :) Sorry for the lack of blogging. Life has been crazy crazy but I feel like things are starting to calm down a bit - so lots of fun blogging tidbits coming your way soon!
Glad to be back!!

Homemade Microwave Popcorn

2009-11-17T07:38:00.000-08:00

I think we talked about this not too long ago and I wanted to post the recipe...not that it is really hard...but still - i think the idea is brilliant - and from experience it really works!

We tried this thinking - it will probably crash and burn - but it tastes just like you made it on the stove and you don't have that artificial buttery thing going on...I don't like that fake taste - give me the real thing baby!! :)

So here you go - go for it - and if you try it...let me know if you like it!!

Homemade Microwave Popcorn Recipe!

Oreo Thanksgiving Turkey

2009-11-16T06:47:00.000-08:00

I love this!!

I found this at one of my favorite blogs to read "make and takes".

I was looking for a "Thanksgiving Craft Tradition" to start with the boys...and you know I ain't crafty ;)

So I found this and thought...I can do that!! Now obviously this is a treat...you won't find any vegetables in this recipe, but it looks really cute and I think it would look fabulous at your Thanksgiving Table!

We are making these next week - although we are not having anyone over for Thanksgiving, it is just the 4 of us - so we will be eating these ourselves...not that I mind!

Happy Crafting!!

Oreo Turkey Craft!

Which Sesame Street Character are you!?!?

2009-11-11T12:07:00.000-08:00

Maybe something you have never thought of but it is a fun and harmless quiz to take to find out which character you resemble. I am Elmo - though I really thought I was going to be Big Bird...oh well...Elmo is ok I guess :)
Hope you are having a wonderful day - This blog post was brought to you by the letter C and L and by the number 5!

Sesame Street Interactive Quiz...which character are you!?

Video Mom Tip!

2009-11-11T12:02:00.000-08:00

As promised - here is the Mom Tip about peeling a potato without a potato peeler!
It is much easier to see it then to have it explained on the radio so that is why I put it up here for you - Enjoy...and let me know if it works for you!

Best Cupcake EVER!

2009-11-09T11:35:00.000-08:00

Bob - a listener friend - sent me this recipe when I mentioned that I was trying to come up with the perfect cupcake that people went nuts over...Bob said he was on a mission to do the same thing and finally found it!! He sent me the recipe and I get to share it with you now!! I know a lot of people were looking for this so enjoy...I've included the frosting recipe too...yum!!

Bob's Perfect Chocolate Cupcake Recipe -

2 cups sugar
1 ¼ cups all purpose flour
¾ cup Cocoa
1 ½ tsps baking soda
1 ½ tsps baking powder
1 tsp salt
2 eggs
1 cup whole milk (can substitute 2%)
½ cup peanut oil (can substitute vegetable oil)
2 tsps vanilla
1 cup boiling water
Heat oven to 350°F. Prepare boiling water. Have a good rolling boil. Prepare baking pans by spraying PAM spray and flouring them. Can use single 9-inch x 13-inch x 2-inch pan, three square pans 8-inch x 8-inch or three 9-inch round pans. Can also make 18-24 cupcakes, but use the foil cupcake wrappers.
In large mixer bowl, stir together sugar, flour, cocoa, baking soda, baking powder and salt. Add eggs, milk, oil and vanilla into bowl, then beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. Stir in the boiling water, this will cause the batter to bubble and thin, that is just fine.
Pour batter into prepared pans or use 1 cup measure to pour into cupcake wrappers. Fill wrappers 1/3 to 1/2 full.
Bake 25-30 minutes for square or round pans, 30-35 minutes for rectangular pan, or 20-25 minutes for cupcakes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes. Remove from pans to wire racks and complete cooling. Frost if desired.

Bob's Famous Frosting

Single Recipe (Original)
3/8 cup softened butter
1/8 cup Crisco
4 cups confectioners’ sugar
1 tsp vanilla
6 Tbsp milk (add more if needed)
Combine ingredients and frost cake, cupcakes, cookies, etc.
1 ½ recipes covers Dark & Rich Chocolate Cake
½ recipe covers 1 recipe sugar cookies.
1 ½ Recipe (Modified 2009)
This recipe is modified from the original to remove the Crisco, and still provide a stiff frosting for the cake layers. The coconut oil and the whole milk are thicker than 2% milk and only using butter.
6 cups confectioners’ sugar
1/2 cup melted butter
3 Tbsp Coconut Oil
2 tsp vanilla
3/8 – 1/2 cup whole milk (start with 3/8 and add more if needed)
Let the cake cool, and micro the frosting for 5-8 seconds to soften it just before you apply.

10 Tips to Save on Christmas Shopping!

2009-11-03T07:50:00.000-08:00

I think that maybe all of us could use one of these tips this season...Our family already has a plan in motion that I think will benefit us greatly in our desire to "cut back" this year...we say it every year but this year it has to happen!!

I was proud to read through this list and find that I do a lot on the list already! You may too...but I think the whole list is good advice!

Happy Shopping

10 Tips to Save on Shopping this Christmas!

What "Soda" does to your body!

2009-11-03T07:42:00.001-08:00

So I put this up on my blog today with great disappointment...see I LOVE Diet Pepsi...I have drank WAY too much of it over the years....When I entered my 30's I began to notice a lot of wacky health issues and when I would stop drinking Diet Pepsi...they would go away. So - last week I gave it up for good. Now I know that Diet is worse for you than regular soda so if I feel the need to indulge I may have a Coke every now and again but according to this article, both regular and diet are not great for you...it scared me straight...so I offer it to you. I know that it helped me to feel better - so maybe it could do the same for you.

I read a book recently that called pop "liquid satan" - thought that was a little harsh...but I see their point!

What soda does to your body! - Read the article here

Pumpkin Whoopie Pies - Oh My!

2009-11-03T07:36:00.000-08:00

Yeah - I can't do it...I promise no more pumpkin...and then I see this. When the picture makes me want to eat the screen - I have to share it with you! I love pumpkin so much I may adopt it and make it part of my family :)

So here you go...do with it what you will- but I hope you enjoy...and let me know if you make it and you love it...I am going to do the "thanksgiving practice run" this week so I will let you know how it goes!

Hugs!

Pumpkin Whoopie Pie Recipe!

Last Pumpkin Recipe of the Season!

2009-11-01T18:18:00.001-08:00

This is a keeper! It is best to dip with gingersnaps...so delish!

I promise - this is the last pumpkin recipe of the season - it has been fun!!

Ingredients:

8 oz. light or fat free cream cheese
2/3 cup light brown sugar
3/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
2 teaspoon cinnamon
1 15 oz. can pumpkin puree

Preparation:

In a food processor (or in a bowl by hand) pulse the cream cheese until smooth. Add next four ingredients (brown sugar, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, ground cinnamon) to food processor and blend well. Empty cream cheese mixture into a bowl, add the pumpkin puree and mix well. Refrigerate until served.

Enjoy!

Cold and Flu Survival Guide!

2009-11-01T18:08:00.001-08:00

As I type this...I am sniffing and coughing...my kids will be home from school tomorrow because they feel the same way - and we are generally just "icky". So I thought I would post a nice list of things you can do to fight the colds and flu this winter...A survival guide you might say.

I am sitting here with kleenex, a big glass of water and a fuzzy blanket that makes me feel somewhat better - I want you to be able to fight it so here you go - have a healthy week!

Cold and Flu Survival Guide - the 12 things you need!

Pumpkin/Cake Mix Delight!

2009-11-01T17:54:00.000-08:00

I have had a TON of requests for this - so I wanted to put it into written form so you can try it before "pumpkin season" is thru! It may seem hard to believe that you can just take a cake mix and a can of pumpkin...mix and cook - but you can! I have pasted the recipe below...

Now - let me tell you that you can use a chocolate cake mix...I actually prefer that...and you do not have to add pumpkin pie spice - that is optional...sometimes I do...sometimes I don't.

I love this recipe - they are dense, but I think they are good! Enjoy!!

Ingredients

1 (18.25 ounce) package yellow cake mix
1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree
*optional - 1-2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 12 cup muffin pan or line with paper liners.
In a large bowl, mix together the cake mix, pumpkin puree, until smooth. Spoon equal amounts of batter into the prepared muffin cups.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes in the preheated oven, until a toothpick inserted in the center of one comes out clean.

Pumpkin Roll Time!

2009-11-01T17:47:00.001-08:00

This is what I have promised to bring to Thanksgiving this year...and what has been devoured every time I bring it to a function...the people love it! =)

I never tried to make a pumpkin roll before because I thought it would be difficult and I would somehow mess it up - but it actually turned out great.

Now - you will notice in the recipe that it talks about how to roll it out after it cooks...let me tell you what I do - you can follow the recipe or my way - either way - I think it will work.

When I take out the roll - I immediately take it out of the pan and put it on parchment paper that i dust heavily with powdered sugar. I roll it up immediately and leave it there for 20 minutes. Then I unroll, frost the inside, roll back up and put into the freezer for 45 minutes...I wrap it in an outer layer of foil before I put it in the freezer...and that's all folks! Again - you are welcome to try it any way you like - but don't be afraid!! =)

Pumpkin Roll Recipe - the best I have found (and I have tried a bunch!!)

No Pumpkin I Promise!

2009-10-02T15:36:00.000-07:00

Ok - I felt guilty about all the pumpkin recipes...so this one has no pumpkin...just a lot of chocolate and a lot of cookies and a lot of calories...though I have heard if you eat things like this in large groups - everyone absorbs the calories equally so you only get a portion of them...I'm just saying that is what I heard... =)

This one looks divine...and totally a pot luck kind of goodness...ENJOY

The Picky Palate's Mother Load Cookie Bars!

Friday Foodie!

2009-10-02T15:29:00.001-07:00

This comes from my favorite food blog - the picky palate....I am in love with that blog - mostly because she can make anything look BEAUTIFUL with the pictures she takes...makes you want to make the recipes right away!!

Ok - so this one has pumpkin in it again...i know - i have a problem...but look at that picture and tell me that doesn't look good...you know it does =) So try it - and tell me what you think...and have a great weekend...and I promise no more pumpkin...at least for this weekend!! =)

Recipe for Black Bottomed Mini Caramel Cheesecake Bites!

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Recipe

2009-10-01T15:09:00.000-07:00

I am in love with Pumpkin Cream Cheese...have I mentioned that in the last 10 minutes??

All this week it has been my passion...I am in love with it - I could eat in everything...seriously everything.

Thought you might like a recipe so you could make it at home...I wouldn't add the maple syrup but this is my opinion...do what you like!! =)

Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Spread

4 oz. cream cheese, softened
3 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
1/4 cup canned pumpkin
1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

1. In a small bowl, beat softened cream cheese, sugar, and syrup til creamy.
2. Add pumpkin, spices and vanilla and beat til smooth.
3. Refrigerate for at least an hour.
4. Enjoy!

The Test I would Fail...maybe

2009-10-01T10:32:00.000-07:00

Here is the video I promised!

A great lesson about patience and temptation!! I don't know if I would have passed this test...at 5 years old...or now at 32...that is my sad story - but I speak the truth. =)

Hope you are having a great day...your pumpkin cream cheese recipe is coming soon!

Time to Rebound!

2009-09-30T08:14:00.001-07:00

Every tried rebounding? It is being called the Fall Fitness Trend of 2009!
I love rebounding...I started rebounding this summer and it is my favorite workout. It is easy on the ankles and knees...burns more calories than running in 30 minutes and I can do it while watching television...which is always a bonus.

Rebounding is a facy term for jumping on a mini trampoline. So go dig yours out from the 80's and make sure to put on your purple leg warmers...and rebound with me!

I found this workout online and it starts you off slow but in 6 weeks you will be toned and tightened - give it a try...not the sleek...a little bulky but hey- it works and if you like it...rebound with me today!

6 week rebound workout!

Bringing back the BEST CUPCAKE EVA'!!

2009-09-30T07:15:00.001-07:00

I had a friend who did not believe that I could make cupcackes that tasted like girl scout cookie thin mints...oh was she wrong...

I made a batch of these cupcakes and they are fabulous! If you like chocolate and mint - ooo baby do I have a treat for you.

This is possibly my favorite cupcake and it got buried on my website so I wanted to dig it out and feature it again in case you missed it...I am telling you - you won't be sorry - let me know what you think and how it tastes...I love the feedback!

Have a great chocolatey-minty day!

Recipe for Chocolate Mint Cupcakes

Friday Foodie!

2009-09-25T06:56:00.000-07:00

So every Friday I am going to give you a recipe you can try over the weekend...see if it is something you like or don't like...
It is fall so today it is all about PUMPKIN - I could eat pumpkin from now until Christmas...in just about everything really - but have you ever had pumpkin oatmeal!?!?
I know this may sound a little strange - but read on - because it looks so good!

Let me know what you think....the recipe seems fairly simple - I am trying this for breakfast tomorrow!! This recipe came from the food blog "Good Life Eats" so if you ever want a place to look for more great recipes like this one - Katie's your gal!

Pumpkin Oatmeal - Yum!

Kids Cleaning Buckets

2009-09-15T14:36:00.000-07:00

I was sure I put this up over Labor Day...I remember writing about it and for some reason I never did...I do that every once in awhile - convince myself I do stuff that I never do...sign of old age I guess =)

So this is for Pauline =) it is a cute bucket, easy to make, from one of my favorite websites: Make and Takes - if you have time - check out the whole website...you will find tons of cute ideas!

Kids Cleaning Buckets!

Faux Cookie Dough...yum!

2009-09-15T14:17:00.000-07:00

Ok - I have not tried this yet...but it sounds good! Now admit...you like cookie dough - at least a little bit, every once in awhile. I know that eating cookie dough can be bad for you..not just fat and calories but actually dangerous to eat it raw!
This version...is totally safe to eat raw - and it is really nutritious -
The recipe came from one of my favorite blogs about health and fitness...Vitamin G....

Same website that I got the Breakfast Cookie from (which by the way I thought was not good...but I might try again and try to find something that makes it taste better)

So here you go...faux cookie dough (I am great at rhyming) =)

"Cookie Dough" Balls

Recipe by Sarah Jio

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon of peanut butter (or any other nut butter--I used sunflower "butter," since we have a nut allergy in my house)

1 banana, mashed

1/3 cup of rolled, old fashion oats (not instant oats)

A sprinkle of cinnamon (optional)

2 tablespoons of wheat germ

(P.S. You could add in some chocolate chips if you really wanted to--but I think there are enough flavors going on here.)

Preparation:

Sprinkle the wheat germ on a small plate and set aside. In a cereal bowl, mash the banana with a fork, then add in the peanut butter and oats and cinnamon, if you're using. Mix together until well blended (should be creamy and cookie-dough-esq). Pick up a spoonful and roll into a ball with your hands, then roll the ball onto the plate of wheat germ until it coats/sticks to all sides. Repeat until you've used all your "batter."

Enjoy!

Divulging my secrets...

2009-09-04T20:37:00.000-07:00

Ok - I have been keeping this one to myself for a while but this is a really good website so I need to share.
This is one of my favorite food blogs - I check it everyday and I use something from it at least every other week....some of my favorites are the spaghetti bread and the chocolate covered brownie bites...
I thought this would be a great resource if you need to bring something to a labor day get together this weekend -
Let me know if you use anything from it - I would be happy to hear what you think!
Have a great weekend!!!

The Picky Palate - My Fave Food Blog

Inspiration from Andre...

2009-09-01T10:07:00.001-07:00

Ok, so I cry alot...you know that =) I tend to cry alot when they have those sappy pieces on sports athletes for some reason - I can't help it...this one got to me last night.
I love tennis and Andre Aggasi was always one of my favorites - but that is not why this is up here. I put this video up to show the importance of backing up our words - with actions. I can talk all I want, but if you don't see me living it...my words mean nothing...if you have 5 minutes. Watch this video - tears not required =)

Rhubarb...what to do!?!

2009-08-28T13:24:00.000-07:00

So I am in the grocery store and I buy some rhubarb...i don't know why - it just looked good =) I don't know what to do with rhubarb...I know it is pretty tart which is probably why it is always in desserts...but I need a good recipe - a good rhubarb recipe...do you have one? What should I make tonight...help me!! =)

Girls in my circle!

2009-08-28T13:17:00.000-07:00

This came from my friend Julie. We have been friends since the first day of freshman year of college and she has played a huge part in my life...I am blessed to know her. I don't normally read forwards but I am glad I opened this one - some of the drawings are a little silly =)

When I was little, I used to believe in the concept of one best friend, And then I started to become a woman. And then I found out that if you allow your heart to open up, God would show you the best in many friends.
	One friend is needed when you're going through things with your man. Another friend is needed when you're going through things with your mom. Another will sit beside you in the bleachers as you delight in your children and their activities. Another when you want to shop, share, heal, hurt, joke, or just be. One friend will say, 'Let's cry together,' Another , 'Let's fight together,' Another , 'Let's walk away together.'
	One friend will meet your spiritual need, Another your shoe fetish, Another your love for movies, Another will be with you in your season of confusion, Another will be your clarifier, Another the wind beneath your wings.
	But whatever their assignment in your life, On whatever the occasion, On whatever the day, Or wherever you need them to meet you with theirgym shoes on and hair pulled back, Or to hold you back from making a complete fool of yourself . Those are your best friends.
	It may all be wrapped up in one woman, But for many, it's wrapped up in several.. One from 7th grade, One from high school, Several from the college years, A couple from old jobs, On some days your mother, On some days your neighbor, On others, your sisters, And on some days, your daughters.

20 Lazy Ways to Save Money

2009-08-25T15:11:00.000-07:00

I was talking about this on the air and thought you might like the complete list...I know that some of them seem simple but it is also a good feeling to know that you ARE saving money by completing things on this list....I by no means have all 20 taken care of yet but we are working on it slowly but surely!

Happy Saving!

20 Lazy Ways to Save Money!!

Homemade Puff Paint Project

2009-08-25T14:58:00.001-07:00

Found this craft project and you know how I love the easy craft projects...anything that seems catastrophe free is good for me!

All you need to make the paint is:

1 Tablespoon Self Rising Flour

1 Tablespoon Salt

Couple of Drops of Food Coloring

Mix the ingredients with some water to create a paste and you are ready to paint!! Now a reminder, you don't have to have paint brushes you can use q-tips to paint and make sure it is on heavy paper or cardboard....when finished - microwave on high for about 30 seconds or less and project done!

I found the "how-to" at this website One Crafty Momma - great website if you are looking for cool craft projects!

Strawberry Jam Oatmeal Bars

2009-08-25T14:50:00.000-07:00

"Grandma" brought these over for us...a favorite neighbor of ours...and I thought it was a passed down speciality recipe - turns out she found it online and e-mailed it over for me =)

This takes about 10 minutes to put together and they taste really good...if you are looking for a last of summer treat - this is a good one!

Strawberry Jam Oatmeal Bars

Ingredients:

1 cup flour
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup butter, softened
1/3 cup brown sugar firmly packed
1/4 t baking powder
1/8 t salt
3/4 cup strawberry jam

Directions:

Preheat oven 375 degrees, and in a large bowl mix everything together but the jam.
Measure two cups of the mixture and press into the bottom of an 8 inch square baking dish coated with cooking spray. Using a large spoon, distribute jam evenly over the mixture in the dish.
Take remaining mixture and sprinkle on top of the jam and press down lightly.
Bake 25 minutes. Remove from oven and allow to cool in dish for at least 20 minutes before serving. These are delicious warm.

Tomato Pie and Gingerbread Cupcakes

2009-08-25T14:35:00.000-07:00

I wrote this up last week but I closed the computer before it saved so I must have lost it...time to repost!!

I loved this dinner last week...it was one of our favorites and is going in our regular rotation for meals...and the cupcakes - spectacular!!
For the Tomato Pie - I used sharp cheddar, mozzarella and gruyere and I added a bit of hot italian turkey sausage - so GOOD!!
For the Gingerbread Cupcakes - I used real ginger but you don't have to - you can use either but let me tell you it was the first time I used real ginger and it was so good!!

Any questions - let me know! It comes from one of my favorite blogs - Simply Recipes...Enjoy!

Tomato Pie Recipe

Gingerbread Cupcake Recipe

Megan's Response to the Zucchini...Blueberry Buckle Baby!

2009-08-14T12:37:00.000-07:00

So I posted a muffin recipe that is perfect for this time of year not too long ago. Megan has now offered her own muffin which is also perfect for this season because blueberries are all the rage...Megan knows my oldest Jack is a blueberry muffin crazy so she sent this as the BEST blueberry recipe she has EVER made...I will let you decide -
I have been on a baking kick lately and I like that I get to control the ingredients so I know exactly what is in them when I am eating them and that makes me feel better about my choices...so let me know if you like it - they are Megan's favorites and by the looks of them -I am guessing I will like them too! =)

Blueberry Buckle Muffins...yum

Ingredients:

Batter -

1/4 cup butter, room temperature
3/4 cup sugar
2 eggs
1/2 cup milk
1 t vanilla extract
2 cups flour
2 t baking powder
1/4 t salt
2 cups blueberries, stemmed and rinsed
Topping-

1/3 cup sugar
1/2 cup flour
1 1/2 t cinnamon
1/4 cup butter, room temperature
Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and line a 12 cup muffin tin with baking cups. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the butter and sugar. Beat in the eggs, then the milk and vanilla.
Whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium sized bowl. Pour the dry ingredients over the wet ingredients and stir well, being careful not to overmix. Use a spatula to fold in the berries. Spoon the batter into the muffin tin filling each cup about three quarters full.
Make the crumb topping by stirring together the sugar, flour and cinnamon in a small bowl. Using your fingers, work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture is crumbly.
Bake for 20-25 minutes (or 15 minutes for mini muffins) or until they are lightly brown and a knife inserted in the middle of one comes out clean. Cool in tin for 15 to 30 minutes before serving. If you don’t, you risk some of the delicious buckle topping coming off. Then simply pretend it’s breakfast time, despite the hour, and enjoy with coffee.

Zucchini...in muffin form

2009-08-14T12:07:00.000-07:00

If you have time this weekend for a delicious muffin recipe - this would be good for breakfast...snack time - whatever. It is filled with a vegetable too...BONUS!!! I have attached the recipe - I used 1/2 whole wheat flour, and i used 1/2 oil and half applesauce and that helped a bit with the fat count....like many others - I doubled the chocolate chips...which did not help the fat count - but I used dark chocolate and that is good for the heart =)
Let me know if you like them...I didn't think I would but they are Fabulous darling!
Enjoy!!

Zucchini Chocolate Chip Muffin Recipe!!

Comfortable Me...

2009-08-12T10:09:00.000-07:00

Hi there!
I saw this video today and I have to say it has totally challenged me. I feel very comfortable and this has challenged me to be "on fire" for God...to not be content with contentment. You may not feel the challenge the way I did...and that is ok - but I wanted to put it up here because of the impact it had on me

The Cartoon Me...

2009-08-10T15:48:00.001-07:00

I have always wanted to turn myself into a cartoon...mostly because you can get rid of the little flaws...amp up the good qualities and still say "hey that looks like me" =). Someone passed this site onto me and so I tried it...not bad huh?? I couldn't find a nose that fit mine but this is kind of close - plus if you know me, you know I always talk with my eyes closed...it helps me to think...I like the cartoon me I just wish they had a diet pepsi I could hold in my hand =) but I do dig the dress and the eyeshadow - it's my new profile pic... =)

Playtime Menus for Kids

2009-08-10T15:42:00.001-07:00

I had talked about this last week and forgot to put it online...if your kids want to play make believe (my kids are really into playing "town" - but with two kids kind of hard to pull off a whole town) here is an idea to make menus for their restaurant...easy to do and a fun craft project -- from one of my favorite blogs "make and takes"

Make a homemade restaurant menu

As close as you can get!

2009-08-10T15:27:00.000-07:00

I am in love with Starbucks Lemon Cake - it's a lemon pound cake that is absolutely delicious. Last night my husband and I decided to make the homemade version and we got incredible results. I tried this recipe I found online and it was fabulous! I added a little extra lemon extract because we like the punch of lemon and I baked it in a 10 1/2 x 6 baking pan which made it a little more "cake-y" and less "poundy" as my husband says...we actually like it better that way...enjoy!

Starbucks Lemon Loaf

1-1/2 Cups all-purpose flour
1/2 Teaspoon baking soda
1/2 Teaspoon baking powder
1/2 Teaspoon salt
3 eggs
1 Cup granulated sugar
2 Tablespoons butter, softened
1 Teaspoon vanilla extract
1 Teaspoon lemon extract
1/3 Cup lemon juice
1/2 Cup vegetable oil

Lemon Icing
1 Cup plus 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
2 Tablespoons whole milk
1/2 Teaspoon lemon extract

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.
Blend together eggs, sugar, butter, vanilla, lemon extract, and lemon juice in a medium bowl with electric mixer.
Pour wet ingredient into dry ingredients and blend until smooth. Add oil
and mix well.
Pour into prepared 9x5-inch loaf pan. Bake for 45 minutes or until cake tests done.

Lemon icing:
Combine ingredients in a small bowl with electric mixer on low speed. After loaf has cooled, remove from pan and frost the top with the lemon icing.

Makes 8 slices.

1 Chicken - 2 Meals...loving it!

2009-07-28T11:11:00.001-07:00

This is in my slow cooker at home right now!!

We were feeling a bit "fast fooded out" - and I was looking for a really easy home cooked meal.

Enter - my favorite blog...I was catching up on my blog reading and saw this post - and fell in love...I went out and got a whole chicken yesterday and now he is roasting on slow...I am actually more excited about tomorrow's recipe but my husband is a fan of the first...

Try it - let me know what you think! Winner Winner Chicken Dinner!

Vacation Pics!

2009-07-27T19:00:00.000-07:00

Thought you might like to see some pics from our family get together this past weekend. It was great to be with family during a difficult time for Rod and the kids and me...My dad took Jack and Owen out fishing so there are some great pics of what they caught...notice the children are not touching the fish - I can't blame them - gross =)

Lemon Layer Cake with Splenda

2009-07-08T12:09:00.000-07:00

Well you can tell I am pregnant =) Everything looks good to me...everything looks like something I would like to try. That being said, I know that people are not always keen on using Splenda they prefer sugar or something organic and that is fine - but I know there are also some that prefer Splenda and this recipe is for you. It seems very summer-y and refreshing and i could eat a bite right now =)
Enjoy!

Lemon Velvet Layer Cake Recipe:

1 c Splenda Sugar Blend for Baking .
2 1/2 tsps baking powder .
1/4 c fresh lemon juice .
1 c milk .
1 c water .
2 1/2 c sifted cake flour .
1 tsp lemon rind .
1/4 tsp lemon extract .
Lemon Filling .
1/2 c butter, softened .
Cake layers .
2 tbsps Splenda Sugar Blend for Baking .
Optional whipped cream frosting .
2 1/2 tbsps cornstarch .
1/2 tsp salt .
2 tbsps butter .
1/4 tsp lemon extract .
3 large eggs, lightly beaten .
2 tbsps lemon rind .
2 egg yolks, lightly beaten .
1 tsp lemon rind .
1 1/4 c whipping cream .
2/3 c Splenda Sugar Blend for Baking

Directions

Step #1 Cake layer directions:.
Step #2 Preheat oven to 350°F Grease & flour two (8 inch) round cake pans.
Step #3 Combine flour, Sugar Blend, baking powder & salt in a mixing bowl.
Step #4 Cut butter into flour mixture with a fork or a pastry mixer until crumbly.
Step #5 Stir together eggs, milk, lemon extract & lemon rind in a mixing bowl; add 1/3 of the egg mixture to flour mixture.
Step #6 Beat at lowish speed until mixed.
Step #7 Beat at medium speed for 30 seconds or until batter is smooth, stopping to scrape down sides of the bowl.
Step #8 Repeat procedure two times.
Step #9 Spoon batter into prepared pans.
Step #10 Bake for 25 to 30 mins or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
Step #11 Cool in pans on a wire rack 10 mins; remove layers & cool on a wire rack.
Step #12 Lemon Filling Directions:.
Step #13 Combine Sugar Blend, cornstarch & water.
Step #14 Cook over med-heat/flame, whisking constantly, until mixture thickens.
Step #15 Gradually add about 1/4th of hot custard mixture into yolks, whisking until mixed; return to remaining hot mixture.
Step #16 Cook whisking constantly, until mixture comes to a boil; boil one min, whisking constantly.
Step #17 Remove from heat & stir in the butter, lemon rind & lemon juice.
Step #18 Place plastic wrap on the surface.
Step #19 Set aside to cool.
Step #20 Whipped Cream Frosting Directions.
Step #21 Beat whipping cream until foamy; slowly add Sugar Blend, lemon rind & lemon extract, beating until soft peaks form.
Step #22 To Assemble Cake:.
Step #23 Spread lemon filling between cake layers.
Step #24 Spread whipped cream frosting on top & sides of cake.
Enjoy the Lemon Velvet Layer Cake recipe

Toast Art!

2009-07-06T15:38:00.000-07:00

I remember talking about this right before my back went out and I wanted to put this up for you to check out...cuz it is SO easy and fun to do and a really fun summer craft...plus the kids eat the artwork so it leaves you room on the fridge =)

Check out "toast art" - I found it right here!

My boys...

2009-07-06T15:21:00.000-07:00

Got the boys pictures taken not too long ago...thought you might like to see my precious boys before we get ready to add another to the group early next year...SO CUTE!! (I know I am bias)

Summer Decluttering Challenge!

2009-07-06T15:17:00.000-07:00

Did you try the summer declutter challenge we talked about last week? It was called Shed and Share and a great way to clean out a few "clutter filled" areas in your home. If you didn't get a chance to do all 5 days...here is your chance! You can catch up and finish...or just get started on this easy 5 day challenge!

Summer De-cluttering Challenge -Shed and Share!

Cheesecake done lite!

2009-07-06T14:56:00.000-07:00

I have been looking for a great cheesecake recipe that had a calorie count lower than 1,000! I love cheesecake and this one does that and still tastes rich and decadent - let me know what you think!

Double Chocolate Oreo Bliss

20 chocolate wafers like Nabisco Famous
1 Tbs granulated sugar
3 Tbs. vegetable oil spread, melted
20 oz. Neufchatel cream cheese
2 1/2 cups fat free milk - divided
2 pkgs. (1.4oz each) fat free, sugar free instant chocolate pudding mix
1 pkg (25 oz) unflavored gelatin
1 cup frozen light whipped topping like Cool Whip, thawed
4 cream filled chocolate sandwich cookies, like Oreo, chopped
1/2 cup low fat half and half
1 bar (4 oz) 60% cocoa bittersweet chocolate, like Ghirardelli, chopped

In blender pulse wafers and sugar 5 times or until fine crumbs form. In bowl, combine crumbs and vegetable oil spread, press into bottom of greased 8" springform pan; chill
In bowl of electric mixer on low speed, beat cream cheese and 1 cup of milk for 3 minutes. Add pudding mix and remaining milk. Beat 30 seconds, scrape down sides of bowl. Increase speed to medium. Beat 1 minute more
In microwave safe bowl, sprinkle gelatin into 1/4 cup water. Let set 3 minutes. Microwave 30 seconds; stir until gelatin is dissolved. Add 1 cup cream cheese mixture; stir. Fold in gelatin mixture, whipped topping and cookies into remaining cream cheese mixture; pour onto prepared crust. Chill 2 hours. In microwave safe bowl, microwave half and half 30 seconds or until just boiling, add chocolate. Let sit 1 minute. Stir until smooth; pour over cake. Garnish with chocolate -flavored whipped cream and almonds if desired.
Prep time: 10 minutes - Makes 12 servings - 319 calories per slice and 19 grams of fat

Summer Camp at Home: Living Room!

2009-06-10T03:44:00.000-07:00

This is something I have always wanted to learn...and I have been told that the best way to learn is by watching someone else...I had a friend tell me you tube videos worked great too - so here we go! In an effort to learn how to knit....I give you a few helpful you tube video that may be a great start for learning the new skill of knitting....good luck...

How to Knit for Beginners

How to Bind and Castoff (sounds like fishing) =)

Picking up a Dropped Stitch

How to Cast On

How to do a pearl stitch

Summer Camp at Home: Kitchen!

2009-06-09T05:22:00.000-07:00

So I was reading this article about holding summer camp at home this year and teaching your kids new skills in every room of the house...I thought that was pretty adventurous, especially since I don't think I have that many skills...but i thought i would give it a try...if you would like to join me, let's start in the kitchen!

Teaching kids to cook is a great skill that will help them throughout their life...I am not a great cook, so my kids often watch their father. I found this delicious recipe to get you started, something the kids can make and have on Saturday morning - Pancake Cupcakes...SO EASY AND SO GOOD!

Here is the recipe!

*By the way - thanks to Lori for alerting me that this post was not up yet...I thought I put it up on Saturday but I must not have published it! Have a great day!

Be A Picnic SUPERSTAR!

2009-06-03T16:56:00.000-07:00

I have always wanted to be the one who brings something to a church picnic and people go NUTSO over it...they a BEGGING me for the recipe and I happily oblige because I know it is truly the best thing I have ever made...that never happens. I think one year I brought granola bars in a box - pathetic I know. So I have been searching for a great recipe that will knock peoples socks off...and I think I found it! Hot Potato Salad - like the sound of it? Wait till you see the ingredients - let the sock knocking off begin!!

Hot Potato Salad Recipe

Natalie Grant's Yummy Recipe!

2009-06-03T16:49:00.000-07:00

I mentioned this on the show today...I have had this before - granted...it was not made by Natalie Grant...but it is DELICIOUS!! I heard people talking about this recipe...that they found it on her blog so I had to check it out. This seems like a good summertime recipe, especially if you like the salty/sweet combo (which I happen to think is divine!)....Enjoy!

Natalie's Pretzel Jello Salad Recipe

Keeping the Kids Busy!

2009-06-03T16:42:00.000-07:00

My mom used to have a chore jar and every time we said "I'm BORED mom!!" we had to head to the chore jar and we wouldn't be bored anymore! Ok - it worked...not fun...but it worked! So you can try that - or try what I found on my favorite blog today or maybe a combo of both! She calls it the summer tub o' fun and it is full of craft supplies from around the house - there is a list of supplies and cool ideas - all you have to do is click here! Have a fun summer!!

28 Calorie Cookie!!!

2009-05-29T11:39:00.001-07:00

Ok - I thought I would leave you this for the weekend!

I am a HUGE dark chocolate fan...I eat a little bit everyday and sometimes A LOT a bit when I feel sad =) I saw this online and thought that a 28 calorie cookie was worth a try. Come to find out, the cookies are not very big...but you can have 3 for under 100 calories and they are pretty rich so you might not want more than that anyways!

They are called Dark Chocolate Meringue Drops....DELICIOUS!!!

For what it is worth...I DID NOT use the chocolate nibs *which are optional in the recipe* and for the dark chocolate I used the 60% cacao Ghirardelli Chocolate Bar you can buy in the baking aisle at most grocery stores...it is my favorite and they were on sale not too long ago so I stocked up!

If you make these - let me know what you think...I am interested to hear!

Ok - I am out for the weekend...Talk to you Monday and I promise to recap the mom tips from last week then!

Be Blessed!

Packing for Road Trips...Kids edition!

2009-05-29T11:32:00.000-07:00

So you are heading out on the road - to Grandmas or to the beach...wherever!

Packing for the kids can be a chore - I tend to over-pack...which I think frustrates my husband although he is always happy when he forgets something because I have probably 5 backups for him...on the other hand the car is packed to capacity so there HAS to be a happy medium!

I frequent a blog that always features crafts and yummy recipes...well today it was all about how to pack for a road trip with the kids and I found some really good tips! Thought you might enjoy!

Hope you have a great weekend!!

Packing for a road trip...kids edition!

Campfire-less Smores - YUM!!

2009-05-29T11:28:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Christin for today's delicious recipe...here is the e-mail she sent the girls in the office!

For those days when you just have to have something sweet…. Last night I was having a chocolate craving, and I was trying to figure out what I could do with a jar of Nutella Hazelnut Spread (much healthier & much fewer calories than a candy bar). I found some marshmallow crème and graham crackers and thought I would try to imitate s’mores. They turned out so well. It’s very gooey & rich, super fast to put together, and you can have it any time without feeling too guilty. One S’more was less than 100 calories, and since the Nutella is so rich I didn’t crave a second. Really easy… just take a sheet of graham crackers and break them in half to make two squares. Spread ½ teaspoon of Nutella on one cracker and ½ teaspoon of Marshmallow Crème on the other. Voila!

Calorie Count:Nutella Hazelnut Spread – 1/2 tsp = 16 calMarshmallow Creme – 1/2 tsp = 3 ½ calHoney Maid Honey Graham Crackers - 4 crackers (2 squares or 1 sheet broke in 1/2) = 65 calTotal = 84 ½ calories

Stawberry Fruit Leather! Kid Project!

2009-05-29T11:24:00.001-07:00

School is out (or out soon) for most - and so before your kids say I'M BORED!!! Plan ahead with cool summer projects that don't take too much time!! I will try to sprinkle some ideas in throughout the summer months and this is one we used to make as kids...i think...unless I made it at a neighbor's house =)

It's Strawberry Fruit Leather - tastes great and it good for you...and kids will love making it!

Here's the recipe!

Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes!

2009-05-22T11:54:00.000-07:00

Long live strawberries!!

They are yummy and delicious and if you like strawberries - you are in for a treat!

I found this recipe and because of my fondness for cupcakes (I think they are little bits of heaven) I thought this might be fun to try...boy was I right! =)

Not too hard to make and they just scream summer...if you are interested in making these for Memorial day or any day...check out this recipe! =)
Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes Recipe!

Free Things! Pantry Spa Day

2009-05-19T09:33:00.000-07:00

All this week on the show we are talking about Fun things to do this weekend (this month, this summer, this year...anytime really) Yesterday I mentioned that it would be fun to clean out a closet...though not many agreed with me =)
Today...I found a great idea involving a "pantry spa" - invite the girls over and give each other homeade spa treatments from stuff that is already in your pantry...I love it!

I found some recipes and tricks to put this FREE Pantry Spa Night/Day together...sounds fun!

Free Pantry Spa Recipes!

Dinner Tonight? Chicken Quesadilla Pie!

2009-05-19T09:18:00.000-07:00

This sounded really good when it came through on my e-mail! I usually get two or 3 recipe ideas every day and most of them are ehhh at best (ehhh is like the sound i make when i say something is iffy or mediocre...next time I see you I'll do it for you) =)

So - this recipe comes along and it seems easy and something the kids would eat and ingredients can be added and replaced which I love so I thought I would share - let me know if it sounds good! One of the girls I work with popped in here this morning and said - that looks really good - send me the recipe...so I figured you might like it too! Enjoy!

Chicken Quesadilla Pie Recipe - Real Simple

Listener Recipe

2009-05-18T09:27:00.000-07:00

We were talking about after school snacks last week and I forgot to throw this recipe up on my blog but it sounds really good and I thought you might like to try it! If you like "no bake cookies" you will like this recipe - and it is healthier for the kids and easy to do. If you are diabetic - Janet even included a diabetic tip for you at the bottom! Thanks Janet for the yummy recipe!
1/2 stick of butter
1/2 cup of orange juice concentrate (straight from the freezer - no water added)
1/4 cup of sugar
1/2 cup of crunchy peanut butter
3 cups of oatmeal

Melt the butter in medium size pan - Add orange juice and sugar and bring to boil on stove. Remove from heat and add in peanut butter and oatmeal. When oatmeal is coated, drop by spoonfuls onto wax paper to cool! *Diabetic Tip* 18 packs of sweetner will replace the sugar!

Graduation Candy Caps!

2009-05-18T09:22:00.001-07:00

Even if you NEVER use this...you have to admit - it is cute. I have good intentions to make these for the grads I know this year...let's see if I can make them look anything like these do - they make me smile!

I found the entire recipe at a blog called "bakerella" - LOVE THIS BLOG! The pictures are so vibrant - it inspires you to try their cute ideas including this one!

Graduation Candy Caps - here is how to do it!

Banana Peel Mom Tips from Last Week!

2009-05-18T09:14:00.001-07:00

Great Mom Tips last week involving banana peels! Did you ever know how much you could do with those things?? In case you missed last weeks tips, I have decided to put them all in one post for you!

Monday - Banana Peel as a bug bite healer! If you get a mosquito bite, use a banana peel (the inside) on the bite...it will take the sting right out
Tuesday - Banana Peel as a cd cleaner! Scratches in your childs favorite cd/dvd? Use the inside of a banana peel and buff out for about 30 seconds...wipe off banana goo with windex and dry cloth - may take a few times but scratches will come out!
Wednesday - Banana Peel as a teeth whitener! I am not kidding! Rub the inside of a banana peel on your teeth in a circular motion for 2 minutes every day for 2 weeks...your teeth will whiten a shade...if you can handle banana mouth for two weeks!
Thursday - Banana Peel as a plant enhnancer! Want to give your indoor plants some luster? Rub banana peel on the leaves of your plant for a nice shine and the banana peel with give the plant some added nutrients helping your plant to last longer!

Lemon Meringue Cake!

2009-05-13T18:08:00.000-07:00

I saw this and thought - that is SO up my alley! I love anything lemon...lemon cake, lemon pie, lemon bars, lemon cookies and the list goes on from there =)

If you like lemon meringue pie - what do you think about combining lemon meringue pie, lemon cake and lemon bars into one delicious dish?!? It doesn't look too hard and I think it would be perfect for a weekend treat - or a summer picnic.

Enjoy!!! Lemon Meringue Cake Recipe!

Great after school snack!

2009-05-13T17:51:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Yvonne for this recipe! I was looking for something delicious and at least somewhat healthy to feed the kids after school. I think they were getting tired of "whatever is left in the fridge" - You know I am not the best cook...I try...but easy is always better!! =) These Homemade Granola Bars can be made SO many ways and it is all mixed in one bowl and baked for just a short time - that is music to my ears!!! If you make these, let me know what you do to mix it up...if you come up with a great concoction - let me know! I have to go make these now...they look too good!

Recipe for Homemade Granola Bars!

Mother's Day Pics!

2009-05-12T13:08:00.000-07:00

We made a "Memory Jar" for my mom for Mother's Day...she LOVED it!!!

She told us it was her best gift ever - and she read

them all in one night...didn't I tell you she would

read them all in one night? I totally know my mom =)

Since most of the 6 of us live out of state from where my parents reside, my 2 sisters who live close took pictures. I thought you might like to see a few - my precious mommy....best in the world hands down - I also included a few of the memories that were in the jar - just to give you an idea of how wonderful and weird my mom is! The baby boy in the picture is my nephew Tristan - giving grandma kisses

Some of the entries in the jar:

From my brother Tim:

You told me dad’s back hair made you fall in love with him. Later that night I prayed God would give me back hair some day.

When I had ear surgery in 1990 and I was scared in the hospital. You held my hand when they took me away and you were still holding it when I came to, reading your Bible. It was amazing to realize how loved I was, even when I was sleeping and unaware of it.

From my brother Josh:

You put an orange with the peel jaggedly cut off with a note that said “this orange didn’t give me what I wanted, just let that be a lesson to you” in my lunch at high school

I love…That you are an amazing role model…and a great example of how we should live…

good stuff huh!?!?! =)

Mother's Day Gift Idea - Photo Bookmarks

2009-05-06T08:32:00.000-07:00

If you are crafty - you may love this idea! It does take a little work...but I think it is worth it. My husband said it was a cute idea, but he would have to pay the neighbor to do it for him (he doesn't think he is crafty either) and then that takes away from some of the "gift from the heart" part. This is also a great idea for grandma's - and you still have time!! Tomorrow and Friday we will have "last minute" mother's day gift ideas - have a great Wednesday!

Photo Bookmark Instructions

What's the Best Mom Advice?

2009-05-04T10:13:00.000-07:00

All this week on the show...I will be sharing some "mom advice" sent in from listeners...and I would LOVE to hear the best advice you've ever received from Mom or Grandma or the person that acted as a mother figure in your life! What's the best parenting advice? The best marriage advice? The best overall advice about life in general? Respond in the comment portion and I will try to use them on the air this week!
Happy Mother's Day!! =)

Memory Jar - Mom Gift for Monday

2009-05-04T09:42:00.000-07:00

I think this is the one we are going to do for our mom this year for Mother's Day. It is really simple...but it is a gift that can last all year. I e-mailed all my brothers and sisters and had them e-mail me at least 5-10 memories of Mom. Things she said, places they went...special, funny, sad, impactful moments in their lives...Once I receive them all I am going to write them down on different colored sheets of paper, put them in a canning jar...decorate it a little bit and send it on its way - It is a gift from the heart, and anytime Mom wants to reflect on a memory - she can go to the jar. If you have enough, there could be one for every day of the year! I love this idea...but what are YOU doing for mothers day? Let me know!

Grilled Cheese Trick!

2009-04-30T09:22:00.000-07:00

This is a great idea - no one loves to eat the ends (or butts as we call them) of the bread loaf...unless you are my mom - then you beg for the bread butts...but I found this nifty little trick you can use - and your children will not be the wiser - turn the bread inside out for grilled cheese scrumptious-ness....I have posted a link for pictures and instructions - the kids will never know!!

Inside out Grilled Cheese Sandwich!

Mom's Day Homeade Gift Idea - Day #3

2009-04-30T08:55:00.000-07:00

This may be my favorite one yet...unless of course I love tomorrow's idea which is a very real possibility!
I love to carry canvas bags because I am one of those people that throws everything in a bag that I need for the day...papers, mail, perfume, snacks, magazines....everything in a big ol' bag. If you are like me - you may love this idea - maybe make it for Grandma, or have your hubby make one for you...nothing wrong with a little nudge in the right direction =)

Personalized Handprint Canvas Handbags Instructions!

Have fun...this one is quick but messy - still a great idea!!!

Catching up on Mom Tips...

2009-04-29T16:40:00.000-07:00

I have been bad...need to catch up on Mom Tips from the last few days...

The first one I need to review is one of the best from last week - had a lot of people comment on the lemonade kool-aid in the dishwasher...if you want to clean your dishwasher, pour one packet of lemonade kool-aid in the soap holder of your empty dishwasher - and then let the dishwasher run thru it's cycles...it will clear all of the lime deposits and gunk out of your dishwasher

*Note* Lemonade Kool-Aid is the ONLY flavor that will work!!

Monday's Mom Tip:

I am not sure if we have done this one before or not - but if you find yourself with coffee rings in your coffee cup, you can get rid of it by using a citrus peel (orange or lemon) . Put a little salt on the citrus peel and rub it on the coffee stains. Wash the cup as usual and the stain will come right out!

Tuesday's Mom Tip:

Keep your swimsuit from fading this summer! Before you head into a chlorine filled pool, soak your suit in water (I know - totally not comfortable...but the water can be warm - and this totally works!) The water protects your suit from fading!

Wednesday's Mom Tip:

Keep Oil Splatters out of your kitchen! When you make momma's fried chicken, do you have to tell the children to run for cover because there is oil splattering all over everything? To end splatters for good...before you heat up your oil - put 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt in your pan with the oil - the salt will absorb the moisture (water) from the meat you are cooking and no more splatters!!

The ABC's of Mom gift Idea...

2009-04-29T16:30:00.000-07:00

Time for another Mother's Day Gift Idea!

My kids are really into crafty things recently. They love "making books", coloring, and anything that involves glitter glue and a big mess! If your kids are like mine, they might enjoy making the ABC's of Mom gift for Mom this Mother's Day. I thought it was super cute and left it out on the computer in hopes my husband might take the hint =)

Click here for details on the ABC's of Mom Book

Mother's Day Gift Ideas #1

2009-04-29T16:21:00.000-07:00

I think I have heard my mom say it like 500 times..."Don't buy me anything...I just want something homemade!" - Sound familiar?

If you are looking for an idea for a homemade gift for Mom, Grandmother...whomever - I have a bunch of ideas!!

Today, is one I didn't think I would be able to do - etch glass? No way!! but this is actually really easy - and moms LOVE IT!!

Follow these easy steps if you want to make etched glass for Mom this Mother's Day.

Milestones Part #2

2009-04-28T07:48:00.000-07:00

Ok - to be fair - I have to post a video of Jack riding his bike too!
It is grainy and kind of hard to see...but if he ever logs on here - i don't want him to have any doubts of how proud I am of him too....so you get both!!

Milestone for my Babies!

2009-04-28T07:38:00.000-07:00

So they did it! Owen and Jack can ride their bikes with no training wheels...finally!!!
I didn't think that they would be able to do it but they did!! Here is proof from Owen's ride!!

Football Drafts Make Me Cry...

2009-04-28T03:18:00.000-07:00

Now I know that you are thinking I cry because they are so boring but not true!!
I saw this human interest story that ESPN did on Michael Oher - a young man who was drafted in the top 10 of the first round over this past weekend.
After I heard a bit of his story I googled him and came upon this video and this more complete story.
Now I know this may not be what you want to do on a Monday or Tuesday - but trust me - this story has been on my mind for days now...so powerful - so I thought you might like to see it and read about it. If you do - let me know what you think - and if you cry...it's ok =)

Click here to read Michael's Story

Click here to see the short video clip

Are you wearing expired makeup?

2009-04-23T12:35:00.001-07:00

I had this bottle of mascara...I love it - but it is almost 15 years old - which I think gives away the secret that I don't wear much makeup....ANYWHO...I was concerned that I may need to trash my trusty mascara tubed - so I looked it up online and sure enough - I should have thrown that puppy away about 14 years and 8 months ago =)
Here is the skinny on the makeup you are wearing and when it needs to be trashed!

Are you wearing makeup that’s expired? Here’s a list of expiration dates - beginning from the time you first open these products:

-Powders and shadows: 2 years

-Cream shad0ws: 12 to 18 months

-Foundation: 1 year

-Lipstick & lipliner: 1 year

-Mascara & eyeliners: 3 months

-Makeup brushes: Clean weekly using a mild detergent

-Makeup sponges: Replace weekly

I found it interesting...and rather embarrassing at the same time!

2009-04-22T09:15:00.001-07:00

Happy Earth Day!
I was talking to a friend of mine and we were chatting about earth day. Our kids want to "turn out the lights" at a certain time of the evening...something that they saw on television so we were trying to get all the details.
She mentioned that her mom told her that when they were younger - they used to throw their garbage and fast food wrappers out the car window - just throw their trash out as they went down the highway...my how things have changed!! You see people throw their gum out the window nowadays and people gasp - different world I guess.
I do see the importance of taking care of the world we have been given...I think it is important to take care of the space we occupy to make it better for our children. I think this can be accomplished by starting in our own home - I mean - we can't change the world if we can't even take care of our living space - so I found this list of 40 things we can do to "go greener" .
I was surprised (and quite proud of myself actually) that I do a lot of these things already...so if you find that you have mastered this list - there are things on that list that you can click into to go even a little deeper...
Happy Earth Day - my kids thought they were getting a day off of school...you know to celebrate the earth - boy were they disappointed when I told them they got to help mommy recycle and plant and herb garden...=)

50 Side Businesses...

2009-04-21T16:30:00.000-07:00

Happy Tuesday

I found this article recently and I got to thinkin' (that is always a scary statement when it comes out of my mouth...)

I have lots of friends that have side businesses. Some are stay at home moms, some work part time and so on. The are taking their "passions" and turning them into extra cash for the family.

I have said before that I have always wanted to open a bakery. It is a pipe dream now, but maybe someday. If you are looking to make a little extra cash - check this article out - I think it's cool!

MondayMorning Mom Tip!

2009-04-20T08:27:00.000-07:00

Hi All!
How was the weekend? I got a TON done this weekend - which is rare for me...but I was in motivation mode and I got the whole house done with the exception of scrubbing the kitchen floor - couldn't bring myself to do that yet...Today I am renting a carpet cleaner and cleaning our carpets. I recently had a stain on the floor in our hallway and I used baking soda and it got the stain up BEAUTIFULLY! Only problem is, now I have this circle of clean carpet which is sticking out like a sore thumb...it almost looked better with the food stain!

Ok - on to the mom tip o the day!
Ever try to find the end of a big roll of packaging tape? It can be SO frustrating!! You get tape under your nails and you never get the tape up in one nice strip!
Well now you can!
Next time you use the packaging tape...place a toothpick underneath the tape and lay the tape back down to rest....when you need the tape again - just pick up the toothpick and the tape comes too...so easy!!

Have a great one!

Self Esteem with Mandisa

2009-04-17T07:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday!
Hope you are doing well...
I saw this on the Today show recently and was inspired by her...thought you may like to watch it as well.
Self-esteem is something that I have always struggled with...maybe you have too. Watching Mandisa, it is not about the weight she lost (even though she looks great) it is about the journey she is on - and the realizations she has made - cool stuff!
Have a great weekend!

A Lego A Day...

2009-04-17T03:44:00.000-07:00

I love this!
I love legos...until I step on them.
I also love the old school little people - you know the ones that are choking hazards nowadays, but they were just 2 bumps with heads...somebody should do the same thing with old school little people as this teacher did with lego people - so super sweet.
Check it out - I think you will get a laugh or two out of it - kids will like it too...mine did!
Have a great Friday!!

Your Age by Chocolate!

2009-04-15T12:36:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Rebecca for sending this my way. It looks vaguely familiar, but it was accurate!
Here are the simple steps (if you have a calculator) to finding your age by chocolate!

Pick the # of times you would like to have chocolate per week (more than once but less than 10)
Multiply this number by 2
Add 5
Multiply that number by 50 (I will wait while you grab a calculator)
If you have already had your birthday this year - add 1759. If you have not had your birthday yet, add 1758
Now, subtract the 4 digit number that is the year you were born (1977 for me...yikes)
You should have a 3 digit number
The first number in that 3 digit number should be your original number - how many times per week you want chocolate...
The last 2 numbers should be your age!!!

Did it work?? Worked for me! - Only took a minute too...although I tried doing it without a calculator first, just my trusty college educated brain - I came up with a 5 digit number....but the second time - SUCCESS!!

Hot Dog Octopus - Kids Love Em!

2009-04-15T12:24:00.000-07:00

So my son Owen says he wants Hot Dog Octopus for lunch...what?!? Sounds icky if you ask me, but his friend's mom made it for him for lunch and it was the BEST hot dog he ever had!!
So I googled it and found 6 easy steps to make Hot Dog Octopus...I am not crafty - but this is pretty easy so I gave in - didn't turn out half bad!
Need a quick lunch? Try Hot Dog Octopus...Owen says they're GREAT!

Hot Dog Octopus - 6 Easy Steps!

Mom Tips So Far this Week...

2009-04-15T12:05:00.000-07:00

Look at me!! Slacking on the Mom Tips...
Ok - let's catch up!
It is Wednesday today - so here is what you may have missed.
All this week we are talking about household products that pull double duty...
Monday: Aluminum Foil as Paint Protector
Protect Doorknobs and harware in the kitchen and bathroom when you're painting by wrapping foild around them to catch dribbles. The foil molds to the shape of whatever it's covering and stays firmly in place until the job is complete.

Tuesday: Aluminum Foil for a Clear TV Signal
If your DVD player is stacked on top of the TV and the picture is fuzzy, the two electromagnetic fields may be commingling, confusing the signals. Slip a sheet of foil between the machines to separate the fields.

Wednesday: Easy Peezy Lemon Squeezy
Remove tough food stains from plastic and light colored wooden cutting boards (and plastic boards too) Slice a lemon in half, squeeze the juice onto the soiled surface, rub and let sit for 20 minutes. Rinse with water - your board is now stain free and clean!

Whew!! Now we are caught up - Tip preview...tomorrow we talk used CD cases!

My Boys on You Tube!

2009-04-15T11:58:00.000-07:00

I thought you might like to see this ...It is a video of Jack and Owen on You Tube. They taped a "talk show" at Grandma's last year that was 8 minutes long...and kind of boring =)
My brother Tim shortened it and added some sound effects and the boys think they are rock stars now! If you have 1:43 seconds to spare - it is kind of entertaining...I love it - but I birthed them so I am kind of bias!! =)

Picture from the Past...

2009-04-13T07:42:00.000-07:00

I found this picture last Friday and it is one of my FAVORITE pictures of Owen...
Owen is my youngest and when he was born he was in ICU for a few weeks with some breathing and heart problems. Owen has always been my cuddle bug. His brother Jack - you are lucky to get a kiss on the cheek - which is the way Jack has ALWAYS been - so I am ok with that...but I was praying I would get a cuddler too and I did. He is SO skinny that he could never be in a pool very long...so I would always wrap him up and keep him warm. This is our living room (just kidding - it is at some hotel in Illinois I think) right before my brother's wedding and I just love it - reminds me of my cuddle bug.

Spring Cleaning Challenge Revisited!

2009-04-13T07:39:00.000-07:00

Hi there!

Hope you had a great weekend!
I took Friday off so I could visit family so I hope you had a great Easter!
Lots of people asking for the "spring cleaning de-clutter challenge" so I decided to post a link for you.

Spring Cleaning Challenge - All 5 days!

If you want to clean out the clutter - this is a great way to start and it is Monday - so hey - might as well start at the beginning of the week!
I'll be back with Mom Tips and a picture soon!!

Join me on Facebook!

2009-04-09T07:56:00.000-07:00

If you are a member of facebook - please be my friend! I kind of feel like I am begging for friends...which I guess in a way is kind of true...feels like I am in 5th grade again.
I post a lot of family pictures and other personal info on facebook that I might not post on this blog - and rather than double up on my posting, I figured I would consolidate and have you join in on the facebook fun!

Now before I leave - a joke - this is an honest to goodness knock-knock joke my son Owen told me last night. Owen, like most 5 year olds, cannot grasp the concept of a knock knock joke - so you get this:

Owen: "Mom - knock knock"
Me: Who's there Owen
Owen: cardboard
Me *thinking: oh this is going to be good* but saying "cardboard who?"
Owen: cardboard is what your rice tastes like...

I laughed out loud at that. Yes, he was insulting my rice and salmon - but he was right - it tasted like cardboard.

Cooking with Peeps...is this real??

2009-04-09T07:14:00.000-07:00

I was looking for a recipe to make smores with peeps...I feel like we have 50 bags of peeps in our house thanks to grandma and no one likes peeps (at least not in our house - i know that there are LOTS of families that feel the peeps love)...so I was trying to hide them in a recipe.
(I found one by the way...click here if you want a peeps/smores recipe)
In the meantime - I had a friend e-mail me and tell me I needed to google "cooking with peeps" and click on this link....which i did and wow.
I am not sure if it is a joke or not - but I sure got a laugh out of it - I never thought of putting peeps in my cornbread - but I just might now....gives a whole new meaning to rabbit stew I guess (ok that was a HORRIBLE joke - I could not think of anything else you make with rabbits)

Mom Tip Wednesday

2009-04-08T08:05:00.000-07:00

If you have recently painted, you know that shopping for accessories to match your beautiful new living room can be difficult!
Today's mom tip makes it simple!
After you paint, take a swatch of paint with you and put it in your wallet or purse so that it is EASY to match your pillows and fabrics with the new color of your walls! How cool is that?!?!
I know this seems simple, but trust me, this is SO much easier than guessing...I have had to return MANY an item because I thought it would look great and in the end I was way off - today's mom tip could save you time and money!

Cadbury Creme Filled Cookies!

2009-04-08T07:02:00.000-07:00

Cadbury Creme Filled Cookies and Muffins...oh my!
I found this recipe at one of my FAVORITE mom blogs "make and takes".
This recipe is for the cookies but I think I might like the Cadbury Creme Filled Cupcakes better, so I am including a link for those too!
Cadbury Creme Eggs are my fave Easter candy...though I will admit they are a little too sugary now that I am a bit older - so I love the fact that they have come out with mini-cadbury eggs. You can get them anywhere! That is what I would recommend for the cookies and muffins, but if you need the sugar rush - don't let me stand in your way!
Here is the recipe!

Recipe for Cadbury Creme Filled Cookies:

Cake Mix Cookie Recipe
Mini Cadbury Creme Eggs

You can use any flavor of cake mix for your cookies, mine is Devil’s Chocolate. Mix your Cake Mix Cookie recipe. Spoon a ball full of dough into your hand. Add a Cadbury Creme egg in the center and place it on a cookie sheet. Bake in a pre-heated oven of 350* for 10-12 minutes, or until it’s cooked to your liking.

Want to try the muffins? Here is the recipe for that delicious treat - with thanks to the Beantown Baker Blog!!

Welcome to my blog!

2009-04-08T06:05:00.000-07:00

Hi there!
I figured we needed a place "off the air" to connect on everything we talk about "on the air". This way if you miss a mom tip or a delicious recipe you just can't live without...you can find it here!
Plus, it is a good place for me to continue my thoughts because you know I love to talk!
Couple of rules:

I am not great at grammar - I type a little crazy so don't be alarmed...you will get used to it!
I am better at spelling - Grammar...average but Spelling...better
I want you to respond - COMMENT COMMENT COMMENT! The more we connect, the more we learn about each other!
I may not update everyday - scratch that - I WILL not update everyday...unless it is huge news, I take weekends for the family - but I will try to post every weekday =)

So there you have it! I look forward to talking with you here as well as on the air! Let the fun begin!