Sweet Brown Sugars

Holiday Cookies

2011-12-04T11:42:00.002-06:00

Family Fresh Meals is hosting a Recipe of the Week link up. This week is holiday cookies. These gingersnaps have to be my favorite cookies to make at the holidays. They are so warm and chewy and oh so easy!

Photo courtesy of allrecipes.com

2 cups sifted all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon ground ginger
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup shortening
1 cup white sugar
1 egg
1/4 cup dark molasses
1/3 cup cinnamon sugar

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Sift the flour, ginger, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt into a mixing bowl. Stir the mixture to blend evenly, and sift a second time into another bowl.
Place the shortening into a mixing bowl and beat until creamy. Gradually beat in the white sugar. Beat in the egg, and dark molasses. Sift 1/3 of the flour mixture into the shortening mixture; stir to thoroughly blend. Sift in the remaining flour mixture, and mix together until a soft dough forms. Pinch off small amounts of dough and roll into 1 inch diameter balls between your hands. Roll each ball in cinnamon sugar, and place 2 inches apart on an ungreased baking sheet.
Bake in preheated oven until the tops are rounded and slightly cracked, about 10 minutes. Cool cookies on a wire rack. Store in an air tight container.

The Little Dogs

2011-09-25T14:41:00.003-05:00

Elliya wrote this story this weekend. I was so impressed with the details that she added. I've scanned in the pages with the story (exactly how she wrote it) underneath each one. Enjoy!

The Little Dogs, book 1
By Elliya Bannis

Once there was a little dog and she was outside playing on a sunny day. And she was playing with her friends.

And they were playing cach together. And then they played frisbee and they had lots of fun.

And they where haveing so much fun that they didn't hear the thunder and they cept on playing.

Just then they stoped playing for a minute and then they heard the thunder and they were fritend.

Then it started to drisle a little bit then it go biger and biger and then...

A big storm came. And all of them ran to the dog house to keep dry. But they couldn't all fit in the dog house.

And they were thinking what they should do. And they thought about going in the house.

And they whent in the house and they where dry at last and they stopt at the mat because they where wet. And so there owner dryed them off.

And when they where dryed off they whent to rest.

And when they where done resting they whanted to play some more because it wasn't raining anymore.

And they whanted to play tag and restle then play chase.

Then they got tired of playing and they whanted to go inside and they played a little bit inside.

then they whanted to take a nap when they wher takeing ther nap they dremed a sad drem.

And they drmed that it stormed really bad and the lights whent out.

And when they dremed it they where scared and they woke up. And they knew that it was just a drem.

The End

Back in the Routine

2011-09-10T21:45:00.003-05:00

Posts are few and far between as we get back into the school routine.

I can't believe I have a second grader. She is enjoying her new school. Her teacher is calm and quiet which I think will be good for my chatter box. It was a {not sure of the right word here} decision to put her in public school. Several factors contributed to that decision. As the new school year approached I had a constant pit in my stomach. I finally realized it was a fear of the unknown. Public schools are so different now than when I went. I've only taught in Christian schools due to my certification so naturally that is where E started out. I was finally able to put it all into words. Being a part of the public school system has gotten us out of our nice, protective bubble. It has forced me to pray more diligently for E.

Mother Daughter Relationships

2011-06-15T13:34:00.002-05:00

(This was originally posted at the C-7 blog.)

I have been reading Six Ways to Keep the “Little” in Your Girl by Dannah Gresh over the last few days. The first thing Dannah stresses is “connectedness” – intentional togetherness. This connectedness builds and develops a value system in our children.

I can get so caught up in what I need to do that I often forget to take the time to intentionally connect with my girls. Dannah offers a little quiz to test your connection i.q. I was relieved that I scored pretty well, but I was also struck by some areas that need big improvements.

I am, by nature, not a talkative person. As much as I enjoy being around other people, there are times when I just want to be by myself. I find that I like things done a certain way and it’s hard for me to let go and allow little hands to participate (i.e. cooking, crafting).

Guess what my seven year old enjoys? Talking! She is at the age of questioning too and that results in more talking. My girls aren’t the kind that sit sweetly while I talk to a friend or mark a task of my to-do list. There are many moments of frustration, moments that I don’t always handle so well. I find myself thinking, “If I can just get this one thing done, then I can sit and spend time with them.” But there is always something that gets added to the ever growing to-do list.

I want my girls to feel like they can come to me with questions, concerns, and feelings so that we can have open dialogue. I don’t want them to wonder, “How will mom react? Is she too busy?” Each day I pray that God will do a mighty work, and despite my shortcomings, he would bless us with an open and comfortable mother-daughter relationship. I can see that this sort of relationship will allow me to teach my girls values so that they can grow into healthy young women.

How can you connect with your daughter? If your a daughter, how can you connect with your mother?

Family Bible

2011-06-15T13:28:00.002-05:00

A friend recommended the Jesus Storybook Bible as a great read for a family with young children. The deluxe edition has CD's that you can listen to and they really add a lot to the story. I call it a story because it is not the Bible being read aloud. The narrator tells the story of God's plan beginning at creation. The narrator always reminds you of God's greater plan. For example, David was a good shepherd but God will send a greater shepherd.

We have been listening in the car since we have a long ride to swim lessons. I got a copy at the library but will definitely be purchasing our own. I can see us listening to this over and over at different times. Evie has trouble listening quietly so I'm sure that the girls will hear something new each time they listen.

Chess Cake

2011-05-24T15:02:00.002-05:00

This is my husband's favorite dessert and I make it for him every year for his birthday.

1 pkg yellow cake mix
1 egg
1 stick butter, melted

Mix and spread in a 9x13 pan.

1 (8oz) pkg cream cheese, softened
3 eggs
1 box powdered sugar

Mix and pour over the "crust" that you just made.

Bake at 350 for 45 minutes. Cool and cut into small squares.

Photo Source

Here are a few other variations:

German Chocolate Gooey Butter Cake

Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake with Almond Whipped Cream

Paper Puppies

2011-05-24T06:00:00.000-05:00

Aren't these cute? We made these in about five minutes!

via Ramblings of a Crazy Woman

Teacher Gifts

2011-05-23T12:00:00.004-05:00

The school year is coming to a close and we are looking ahead to 2nd grade!

Here are two gifts that we made for Elliya's teacher and her aide. These were quick and easy yet very unique and personal.

via My Mix of Six

via Party Frosting

A Journey Through Beatrix Potter's World

2011-05-03T21:26:00.004-05:00

The Tale of Johnny Town Mouse is a sweet tale of two mice that meet unexpectedly. Timmy, the country mouse goes into town by accident and soon begins to miss his peaceful garden. His new friend, Johnny Town Mouse couldn't understand why he'd enjoy such a "dull" place. Johnny Town Mouse had his own interesting visit when he came to the country.

I especially like the ending:

"One place suits one person, another place sits another person."

A Journey Through Beatrix Potter's World

2011-04-25T20:48:00.003-05:00

Benjamin Bunny comes to see his cousin, Peter Rabbit, and manages to goad him back into another life and death adventure in Mr. McGregor's garden. This time, at the mercy of a cat, it's Benjamin's father who comes to their rescue.

I did not know that Benjamin Bunny was Peter's cousin! This story is almost like a continuation of the Peter Rabbit story.

Elliya said she didn't like when Benjamin Bunny's dad gave him a spanking but she did like it when they made it home.

A Journey Through Beatrix Potter's World

2011-04-25T20:44:00.002-05:00

Our next story in the journey through the world of Beatrix Potter is The Tale of Squirrel Nutkin.

A bunch of squirrel cousins enjoy hunting nuts on Owl Island. The polite cousins pay their way by bringing tasty offerings to Old Brown, the owner of the island.

But one squirrel, Squirrel Nutkin, enjoys taunting the old owl with silly riddles instead. He learns his lesson, though, on the day the old owl catches him.

Elliya said she liked the tricks that Nutkin was playing.

A Journey Through Beatrix Potter's World

2011-04-25T20:28:00.003-05:00

I was recently challenged by a friend to read all 23 Beatrix Potter stories. These stories are definitely classics. I checked the book out from the library so we could start right away.

Our first story was the Tale of Peter Rabbit. Elliya said her favorite part was when Peter jumped in the watering can. I'm really not surprised at that one! This was the perfect story to bring in the discussion of obedience and consequences of disobedience.

Big Blessings

2011-03-18T23:15:00.000-05:00

I don't even know where to begin. We are abundantly blessed and we are praising BIG.

When we signed our current lease (December 2010) we decided we would pursue home ownership in the new year. I was overwhelmed at the thought and the unexpected. We shared this desire with our lifegroup who immediately started praying with us.

January 2011 - We started talking with a lender to see what we could qualify for. I was pleasantly surprised! I was mostly concerned about our income not being high enough.

February 2011 - We went to a first time home buyers class (highly recommend that) and we started looking at houses in our current area. I was pretty adamant about staying in this area because we do everything here. By the end of February/early March I was feeling pretty discouraged. A lot of that came after we didn't qualify for a first time home buyer's program that would assist us with down payment and closing costs. Believe it or not we were over the income limit but would still greatly benefit from that assistance. God had clearly closed that door.

March 2011 - We expanded our search to a neighboring city. This city (still considered rural) had a program we could qualify for through the USDA. We found some homes and set up showings with our realtor. I was feeling hopeful but still trying to guard my heart.

March 6, 2011 - Our pastor preached a sermon entitled "Go Big or Go Home" and it really opened my eyes to the limits we place on God. I started praying BIG and trusting BIG. I prayed that God would show us the perfect house for us, that it would be exactly what we needed, each step would fall in place, and that we wouldn't be limited by how much we could afford. "Trust big and ask big and let God decide what he's going to do, God is ready to do big things. People of big faith focus on the possibilities, not the problems; the opportunities, not the obstacles.”

March 12, 2011 - We saw two foreclosures and a third house that had been dramatically reduced in price. It was move in ready and was newer than anything we looked at or thought we could even consider. We knew without a doubt that this was the one we should put an offer on.

March 15, 2011 - After waiting nervously all day our offer was accepted and we had a contract. Seriously, it was 10:00 that night. Earlier in the evening we found out there were two more showings. I continued to pray BIG while the knot in my stomach grew bigger.

March 18, 2011 - The inspection passed with flying colors. There were no major problems. Feeling so blessed at how the Lord is moving in each step. I still have that knot in my stomach but it's more of an "I can't believe it's real, is this really happening" kind of feeling.

I never want to forget the Lord's blessings on us during this big step.

A New Twist on Jambalaya

2011-03-18T22:31:00.000-05:00

Here is a recipe I got from a friend. It's a new take on Jambalaya, I'd say it's tomato based. Enjoy!

Layer into crock pot:

1 cup chopped celery

1 chopped onion
1 chopped bell pepper
1 can diced petite tomatoes with juices
1 small can tomato paste (drop in spoonfuls all over)
1 can red beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup chicken stock
1 lb andouille sausage (I just used smoked sausage because I didn't know what "andouille" was.)
1 lb chicken, cubed (I seared the chicken and shredded it into the crockpot.)
1 clove grated garlic
1 Tbsp Cajun Seasoning
2 bay leaves

Cook all day on low, or 4 hours on high. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, take out the 2 bay leaves and stir in:

1 lb shrimp (optional - I did the chicken and sausage above and it was enough for us.)
2 cups instant brown rice (I cooked 2 cups of rice in my rice cooker then added it into the crockpot at the end...turned out great.)

Cookies & Cream Cupcakes

2011-03-10T20:50:00.000-06:00

I made these cupcakes for Elliya's birthday this week. I got the recipe from a friend and they are super easy.

Here's what you do:

1. Separate the Oreos into two pieces. Put the side with the cream on the bottom of the cupcake liner (I always spray my liners so do that if you need to.) Put the other half into a ziplock baggie to be crushed.

2. Crush the cookies that you put into the ziplock bag. You'll want about 1 cup of crushed cookies. You could also skip step one and crush whole cookies if you prefer. I liked the novelty of the cookie at the bottom of the cupcake.

3. Prepare a white cake mix according to the instructions on the box. Gently stir in the crushed cookies.

4. Bake and cool.

5. Ice the cupcakes and garnish with a mini Oreo. I just used a can of vanilla frosting.

Super easy and fun!

What's for Dinner?

2011-01-23T10:38:00.000-06:00

I have a pretty decent menu this week so I thought I'd post it.

Crisp Skinned Roast Chicken with Roasted Potatoes/Whole Wheat Butter Biscuits/Feta Apple Salad

Taco Chicken

Tomato-Beef Stew with Biscuits

Pizza Bread with homemade sauce and salad

Feta Apple Salad

2011-01-23T10:31:00.000-06:00

Feta and Apple Salad

Salad Dressing (can be quadrupled)
4 Tbsp olive oil
2 Tbsp white wine vinegar
1 Tbsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp ground black pepper
1 pinch sugar
1 tsp chopped fresh parsley
1 tsp fresh lemon juice
2 cloves garlic chopped or minced

The Salad
lettuce - I usually use green leaf but any kind will work
green apples diced (or you could use mandarin oranges or strawberries)
feta cheese
pecans/almonds

This is one of those recipes that is easy to add whatever you like in the salad.

Homemade Chicken Soup

2011-01-17T17:55:00.001-06:00

A friend gave me this recipe and it is so tasty! It took about an hour and a half . It's quick and you don't need to plan ahead to cook it all day.

Boil 6 cups of water
Add Knorr chicken bouillon cubes (1 cube per 2 cups of water) Please use Knorr, it will make all the difference!
Let chicken cook in broth water ( I used about 4-5 thin chicken breasts and it was plenty of meat.)

Take out the chicken and set aside to cool. Shred it to add back in later.

Add diced carrots and celery to the broth.
Add Reames Frozen Homestyle Noodles. These noodles are good because they are more like a dumpling and don't get mushy like regular noodles do when you cook them too long.

Bring the veggie and noodle mixture to a boil and simmer for about an hour. If you feel you need more water (which I did) taste the broth because you may want to add another bouillon cube.

After the veggies are done, add the chicken back in just until it's all heated. Again if you need to add more water just taste the broth and see if you need another cube. After the initial 6 cups water/3 cubes I added 2-3 more cups of water and one more cube.

That's all I did. The Knorr bouillon cubes really add a lot of flavor. My friend adds a can of cream of chicken soup but I didn't feel like it was needed.

I think I have finally found my "go to" homemade chicken soup recipe!

Mosaic Art

2010-12-20T16:37:00.000-06:00

I have been trying to collect the letter "B" for a while and I came across this idea for mosaic art at Under the Table and Dreaming and then again at Happy Go Lucky. Both posts do a good job explaining how to do it in various programs but Kara at Happy Go Lucky also suggested using Big Huge Labs because you just put in your pictures and they create it for you. That was super easy. I used photos from the Leo Reynolds' collection.

Most of my time was spent browsing the pictures. So much detail and variety. Stephanie at Under he Table and Dreaming has an exclusive typography printable for the holidays and even more info on how to make and print your own.

Here's what I created:

Now go make one and make sure you give yourself enough time to browse the amazing pictures!

Snow Drift Candle Holder

2010-12-15T10:36:00.000-06:00

This was so incredibly easy to make. Especially since I had everything already!

I saw these snowy candle holders at {Cleverly Inspired} and {Living with Lindsay}. I made a mental note to go get some epsom salt. Guess what I found a little while later under the bathroom sink? Yep! Epsom salt! Still had some left over from our desperate attempt to clear up some eczema!

Here's what you need:
1. epsom salt
2. glass jars (I just grabbed what I had but I'd love to do this with varying heights)
3. modge podge
4. tealight
5. peppermint oreos just because they are good!

Pour some epsom salt into a flat dish.

Paint the glass with a thick coat of modge podge. Do it haphazardly.

Roll the glass around in the epsom salt and sprinkle some on to make sure it's covered.

Let it dry...that's it!

PB Knock Off Union Station Clock

2010-12-15T09:14:00.000-06:00

I was visiting some link-ups from Get Your Craft On at Today's Creative Blog. I love the new link systems that post a thumbnail picture of the project.

I came across this Pottery Barn Union Station Clock knock off. I have come to realize that PB is so easy to copy.

I think I like her $3.50 version much better! Did you see how it's personalized in the middle? Can't wait to give this one a try.

Easy and Budget Friendly {Christmas Ornament}

2010-12-07T22:13:00.001-06:00

After seeing this post at Tip Junkie I really wanted to make these glittery ornaments. When I counted how many I needed (teacher gifts, lifegroup ornament exchange, us, etc.) it just wasn't budget or time friendly.

Then it hit me! I was quite proud of myself when I found a way to do it using what I already had. The only money I spent (a whopping 20 cents) was copying the tags on red card stock and that was only because my printer wouldn't take the card stock (which it usually does).


Here is the original ornament from Tip Junkie.


Here is mine!

Want to make one? Here's what I did (and I didn't even have to use modge podge!):

1. Find some sheet music. I copied some pages from a hymnal that my husband had from college. I specifically copied Christmas songs.

2. I used chipboard circles and traced them on the music, cut them out, glued them on.

3. Use a sanding block and sand (in a downward motion) the edges. This is a step that must not be skipped. It makes a nice finished edge.

4. Take some brown ink and a sponge and distress the edges.

5. Punch a hole (I used my crop-a-dile).

6. Put a thin line of glue around the edge (smear it with your finger) and run it through some glitter.

7. After the glitter is dry and has set string your ribbon. I made a loop and tied a knot from behind.

8. Print some key words for the focal point. The link above at Tip Junkie will give you some that you can print but I made my own so that they would go with the music I chose.

9. Attach the ribbon tags and you're done!

10. Marvel at what a great one day project this was!

Breakfast Quiche

2010-12-06T20:10:00.000-06:00

photo courtesy of google images

Breakfast Quiche (I got this recipe several years ago from Crystal. My hubby likes it and will eat leftovers for breakfast.) It's nice because you can add your favorite ingredients to it. I've even added mushrooms and spinach before.

3 c. frozen shredded hashbrowns
1/3 c. melted butter
1 c. diced ham (pre-cooked)
1 c. shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 c. green peppers
6 eggs
1/2 c. milk
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper

Press hashbrowns into a 9" pie plate, ungreased. Drizzle with butter. Bake at 425 for 25 minutes. Combine ham, cheese, green pepper, and spoon over crust. Beat eggs, milk, salt and pepper. Pour over all. Reduce heat to 350 and bake for 25-30 minutes. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.

Budget Bento

2010-11-27T08:00:00.000-06:00

I was cleaning out my rss feed and catching up on blogs when I came across the idea to make picks using stickers. I can't remember which blog it was though.

Here's what you need:

1. toothpicks

2. stickers

3. cardstock

4. adhesive

Monogram Ornaments

2010-11-26T14:27:00.000-06:00

Each year the girls get to pick out one ornament. This year I got creative and made these monogram ornaments.

I originally got the idea from Confessions of a Homeschooler.

Here's what you need:

1. Wooden letters approximately 4-5".

2. Sanding block, emory board

3. Acrylic paint to coordinate with your paper.

4. Patterned paper

5. Modge Podge

Trace your letter on the back of your patterned paper and cut it out.

Paint your letter and let it dry.

Apply a coat of modge podge and lay your paper on top. Use a ruler to smooth the surface.

Apply a coat of modge podge over top as a sealer.

When it's all dry use the sanding block or emory board to smooth the edges. It blends the paper into the wood. I love the look this makes.

Punch a hole (I used my crop-a-dile) and hang!

Silhouette Giveaway @ HoH!

2010-11-25T20:21:00.000-06:00

One of my favorite blogs is giving away a Silhouette Machine. Go check it out and enter!

And another...

2010-11-24T07:53:00.000-06:00

There are so many great bloggers giving away a Silhouette machine. Go check out Just a Girl for another chance. I'm already planning the many wonderful {vinyl} projects I can make with this. Don't get me wrong...I love my vinyl source. She's local, quick, and super affordable. But how nice would it be to do it on my own as soon as an idea hits?

Endless Possibilities

2010-11-23T09:46:00.000-06:00

There is a giveaway going on in bloggyland. Have you seen this machine? The Silhouette Digital Cutting Tool is an awesome machine. You know all that vinyl that is so popular? This machine can do it...among other things. There are 17 bloggers giving one away and the makers of the Silhouette are offering an awesome Cyber Monday deal.

Go visit the Thrifty Decor Chic to enter.

Kids + Coordinating (maybe) Outfits = Christmas Photo Cards

2010-11-04T20:37:00.000-05:00

This weekend we are taking family pictures, actually just kid pictures. The MOMS Connection at our church offers a fantastic way to get family pictures taken. We did it last year and we are doing again this year. It’s quick and painless!

With Christmas coming up those pictures will be perfect for our Christmas cards. This year I am keeping it simple. I’m going with Shutterfly!

I’ve used Shutterfly for prints and photo books in the past and the results are always very nice. Something new I did this year was start a classroom share site for sharing pictures. I absolutely love this. I can upload pictures of my students, parents get an email when updates have been made, they can view and order pictures. The parents can even add pictures of their own. Such an easy and central way to share photos.

This year I’m looking forward to trying out their photo cards. I’ve had friends use their photo cards and they always look great. You can even upload your address book and Shutterfly will send them for you.

Here are a few choices that I like. Way too many choices!

(Shutterfly is providing me with 50 free photo cards for doing this blog post, however, the opinions offered are my own and I truly do love Shutterfly and use them often! If you are interested in blogging about Shutterfly & receiving photo cards, check out this post.)

Pumpkin Yumminess

2010-10-30T13:39:00.002-05:00

Picture courtesy of All Recipes.com

Here's a new dessert to take to your next gathering. It's easy and something different.

Pumpkin Dip

1 (30 oz) can pumpkin pie mix (make sure it's the PIE mix and not just pumpkin)

1 cup powdered sugar

1 small box instant vanilla pudding

8 oz cream cheese, room temperature

Mix all ingredients together in a medium bowl. Chill. Spoon into a serving bowl. Makes about 4.5 cups.

I like to serve this with Anna's Ginger Thins. Graham crackers or other thin gingersnaps would work well too.

Go visit House of Hepworths to see more recipes!

Potato Soup

2010-10-17T12:48:00.000-05:00

This recipe came from my friend Missy at Plates A Spinning. I altered it just a bit.

Potato Soup
Combine in a 6 quart crockpot:
1 carton chicken broth
5 large diced potatoes
carrots, celery, onions diced (use as much as you like)
salt/pepper

Cook on low for 6-8 hours until potatoes are fork tender.

At about 4-5 hours:
Put in the following flour/milk mixture to thicken: 1.5 cups milk plus 2-4 Tbsp flour. Whisk in flour until it's thick/lumpy but still pretty pourable.

Cook some bacon, chop it, and put into soup.

At the last minute you can add a handful of shredded cheese, stir until melted.

Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

2010-10-17T12:40:00.000-05:00

Photo image courtesy of House of Hepworths

When this recipe came in my inbox I knew I had to try it. Allison from House of Hepworths posted this. This is a must try recipe! The measurements you see below are half of the original recipe. It will make 38-42 cookies. Can you imagine what a full recipe would make? It's easy to double so go for it!

Pumpkin Cookies:
Combine:
1/2 Cup Shortening
1.5 Cups Sugar
Add:
1 eggs
Mix in:
1 (15 oz) can pumpkin
Now add:
1/2 tsp. vanilla
2.5 cups flour
And then add:
1 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. nutmeg
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt

Now, bake @ 350 for about 10-12 minutes. Let cool & then ice using the following Cream Cheese icing.

Cream Cheese Icing:

Combine:
1 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup butter, softened
Gradually mix in:
1 cups sifted confectioners’ sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Blend until smooth. Store in the refrigerator after use.
Recipe courtesy of Allison @ www.houseofhepworths.com

I Heart Fall

2010-10-02T20:11:00.000-05:00

Here are some quick fallscapes I put together today. These are so quick and easy it's ridiculous. I can't take credit for any of them though, I've seen them on the web but I can't remember where.

Enjoy!

These jars were filled with coffee beans, easy switch out for fall. I just put my coffee beans in a ziplock to use later.

Gords bought at the local grocery store. I switched out the pears that were in that hurricane.

Pinecones. Found most of them in storage in my classroom, probably intended to use in Science but this was much more fun! I bought some at Michael's to fill up the hurricane a little bit more.

Lunch Punch Fun

2010-08-25T20:31:00.002-05:00

Look what came in the mail!! I was so fortunate to win a giveaway that Melissa over at Another Lunch was doing.
I can't wait to use our new Lunch Punch sandwich cutters!

Ramen Noodle Asian Salad

2010-08-24T12:03:00.002-05:00

2 packages (3 oz size) ramen noodles - minus the seasoning packet
2 packages coleslaw mix (the broccoli, cauliflower, carrot julienned mixture)
1 cup sliced, toasted almonds
1 cup sunflower kernels
1 bunch green onions chopped
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup white vinegar
salt and pepper to taste

Crush noodles and place them in the bottom of a large bowl. Top with slaw mix, sprinkle almonds, sunflower kernels, and chopped green onions.

Whisk together sugar, oil, vinegar, salt and pepper. Pour over slaw. cover and chill 24 hours. Toss before serving.

Makes 8 servings.

Menu Plan

2010-08-24T09:57:00.004-05:00

I have a small job cooking weekly meals for a friend of a friend. She is busy with her ministry and has some special dietary needs and needed someone to help her with healthy meals. My friend knew I enjoyed cooking so asked me if I was interested. It's been really fun.

Here is how I've organized it:

1. I came up with four weeks worth of menus for her to "approve." They include one salad, two entrees, and a veggie side. Depending on what the side dishes are I can throw in an extra salad or veggie.

2. I set aside one day to go shop for the groceries and cook. It usually takes about 3 hours to cook everything.

3. Then I deliver it the same or next day. She freezes them or refrigerates them depending on what she needs.

4. There is usually enough so my foodie husband gets to sample!

Here is this week's menu:

Flank Steak Salad with Plums & Blue Cheese

Sweet and Spicy Citrus Tilapia

Roasted Asparagus

Sweet and Tangy Strawberry Salad

Ramen Noodle Asian Salad

I'll post more menus as this adventure continues!

Queen Bees and Wannabees - What about the boys?

2010-07-29T14:56:00.003-05:00

If you read part 1 and part 2 you might be thinking, "I'm so glad I have boys and we don't have to deal with all that drama." Well...think again!

I was very pleased to see several male teachers in the seminar. My husband teaches high school seniors and I know he sees a lot of this.

Boy cliques control boys just as girl cliques control girls. For girls, all emotions are acceptable except anger. For boys it's, "No sissy stuff, no talking about emotions..." The only emotion that is acceptable is anger.

Just like girls, boys are often intimidated by and in awe of the leader of their group.

The boy honor code values loyalty and silence over everything else.

Boy's behavior, choices and personal boundaries are largely dictated by their definition of masculinity.

If you are reading this and you are a guy (or talk to your son) go back and read the roles of a group and see where you fit.

(These notes were taken from a seminar by Kelly Smith, M.S.)

Resources:

Real Boys by William Pollack

Bringing Up Boys by Dr. James Dobson

Queen Bees and Wannabees - the rules of girl world, Part 2

2010-07-29T14:16:00.003-05:00

No matter what kind of group you are in there are group dynamics and each person takes on a role. Read these descriptions and see where you fit. Where did you fit in high school? Middle school? Now?

(These notes were taken from a seminar by Kelly Smith, M.S.)

Queen Bees - This is your Eddie Haskel type. They look good, sound good and are pleasing to the eye. They are good at manipulating social settings for their advantage. Bossy, leader of the pack, set the rules but DO NOT enforce the rules. They are constantly looking behind their back because they can be taken off their thrown at any time.

Sidekick - This person is the enforcer. They are very close to the queen bee and looks a lot like the queen bee.

Banker - This is the most powerful person of the group. They are the silent quiet type. They hold all the secrets in the group. Everyone goes to the banker when they are upset because remember you can't directly confront in girl world. The banker is rarely the target because they hold all the secrets. Do you know someone who won't ever be fired or laid off from a job because they "know too much?"

Floater - This person has the most confidence and self esteem. They float between groups and fit in with anybody. When someone says, "You have to do ... or I won't be your friend" the floater doesn't care. As ideal as this may seem (and don't we all want our daughters/children to be this person?) a floater has more than likely been through the other roles but eventually decides they've had enough and they are going to do their own thing.

Torn Bystander - This person doesn't agree with what is going on and they want to say something but they can't for fear of becoming the target. They are the conscience of the group. They need the group.

Pleaser/Wannabee/Messenger - This person usually has no opinion of their own. They are the grunt and do all the messy work. This is the person that appears to be squeezing their way into a group. They are the ones that get talked about when they are not around.

Target - This person gets the rumors and isolation. This person probably broke a rule and doesn't even know it. The group will turn on the target.

An interesting thing about the target...when the group shuts them out and isolates them you would hope for the best and that this target would become the floater. Unlikely...when the group decides she can hang with them again, this person is so glad and will take whatever role she can get. Remember, a girl's number one fear is isolation.

Quote from a teenage girl: "When you're power hungry you'll do anything - even manipulate your best friend."

I was sharing this with Xavier and he could think of his students that fell into these roles. He even picked out the role he played in school.

You may be asking, "So what do we do about it?" A big part is to just be aware...when we notice this sort of behavior going on bust it up. When you identify the girls and their roles there is nothing for them left to hide. Kelly Smith shared a lot of stories when she worked with groups of girls...all the way down to 3rd grade. It seems that when they were called out for the part they were playing the girls seemed to fix the group themselves.

Queen Bees and Wannabees - the rules of girl world, Part 1

2010-07-29T08:19:00.004-05:00

When I found out I was moving to 4th grade this year I knew I had to attend this seminar through a local ISD. Having two girls of my own and teaching an age group that is trying to understand their social status I thought it would be helpful to make myself aware of this ever so hard to figure out "girl world."

(These notes are from that conference by Kelly Smith, M.S.)

How would you define bullying? We usually think of something physical right? What about these words - persistent, intimidation, manipulative, control, and power?

For girls we entered the girl world beauty pageant at birth and we don't get out of it until we die.

Did you ever think about how a group of girls does better if it's an even number? Girls always end up pairing off. So next time you plan your daughter's birthday part and one girl can't come, making it an odd number, invite someone else so it's an even number of girls.

This battle for position and social status begins earlier than you might think...age 4-5. Have you ever heard this, "I won't be your friend." or "You can't come to my birthday party." We often dismiss it as a "kid thing", a stage that all kids go through. That's not true...it's a power struggle and it's just not nice and we need to teach our daughters (and all kids) not to say such unkind things.

Aggression in girls is often between their closest friends. There are three types of agressive behavior in girls:

relational aggression - between friends
indirect aggression - spreading rumors
social aggression - damaging self esteem or social status (Did you ever know a girl that had to change schools? This might have been why.)

To a girl, friendship is as important as air. Therefore, the number one fear in girls is isolation. Have you or someone you know ever thought, "One bad friend is better than no friend." Girls don't directly confront because in girl world conflict = loss. That is why so much of this relational aggression between girls is covert and doesn't get dealt with.

How many times has a friend asked you if they did something to upset you and your response was, "No, everything's fine." See what I mean?

Some people think this is a social skills problem. It's not. It actually takes a lot of skill to cause these problems.

Here are some resources the presenter highly recommended. This seminar wasn't from a Biblical perspective so I threw in Dobson's book.

I'll be doing a follow up post explaining the roles among a group of girls (that was a real eye opener) but they can definitely be applied to any group.

Some resources:

Bringing Up Girls by Dr. James Dobson

Odd Girl Out by Rachel Simmons

Queen Bees and Wannabees by Rosalind Wiseman (great for parents and daughters to read together)

Bringing Up Girls

2010-07-26T04:14:00.003-05:00

A dear friend gave me Dr. Dobson's book Bringing Up Girls for my birthday. I read parts of Bringing Up Boys a few years ago as a teaching resource. I was excited to hear about this new one for girls.

Since we have two girls I'm sure it will be an invaluable resource. Xavier and I plan to read through it together.

Even though I haven't read it yet I'm pretty sure I can highly recommend it. I'll be back to post as we read it.

Healthy Butter Spread

2010-07-26T03:17:00.003-05:00

My friend Patti recently showed how to make a healthy spreadable butter. She made it look so easy I had to try it. Xavier likes when I splurge and buy the fancy "real" butter tubs but let's face it, it's expensive.

You can visit Patti's blog for more details about what oils to use and other tips. This is how I did it.

1. Buy 1 pound (four sticks) real butter and let them soften naturally by sitting out.

2. Add in 1 cup of healthy oil (I used cold pressed evoo because that's what I have).

3. Mix in at low speed. It might be lumpy, that's ok, keep mixing.

4. Add in one cup of water and again mix at low speed until smooth. You may need to add some salt to taste...even if you used salted butter.

5. Pour into a glass container with a lid and store in fridge.

Patti suggests NOT using it for baking. I have been using it to butter bread/tortillas, etc. I've also used it in the frying pan when I want to cook eggs or on the bread for a grilled cheese sandwich.

The verdict? The taste I am going to have to get used to. I can taste the olive oil a little bit. But it makes a ton so it's cheaper and it has healthy oils in it. I compared to the other tub of "real" butter I have and it used canola oil but everything else is the same. So maybe it's a matter of taste.

Muffin Tin Monday

2010-07-26T03:07:00.002-05:00

I saw a great idea to make pizzettes. They worked out great and of course the girls loved them.

Here's what we did:
1. Make your favorite crust and divide into balls (a little bigger than golf balls).
2. Flatten out and wrap individually in saran wrap.
3. At this point you can freeze them until you need them.
4. If you are making the pizzettes right away freeze the mini crusts for 15-20 minutes. This makes the cookie cutters work better.
5. Cut with cookie cutters and add fixings.

Here is this week's muffin tin:

mini pizzas with mini pepperoni, brownie bite, carrots with ranch

Muffin Tin Monday

2010-07-19T06:27:00.004-05:00

I missed the rainbow theme MTM's a while back so I thought I'd hit it this weekend. I served this along with a bow of mac and cheese. I have found cutting thin carrot sticks like this is the only way my oldest will eat them. Otherwise they get too hard to chew and she ends up holding it in her mouth - I have no idea where she gets that from mom *insert gag*!

red - strawberry jello (these are little mini cups we got from the asian market)
orange - carrot sticks with homemade ranch
yellow -banana
green - cucumber with ranch
blue - applesauce (used food coloring)
purple - grapes

Click on the button at the top to see other great muffin tins.

What's for Lunch Wednesday

2010-07-14T14:08:00.005-05:00

Today we went to play with some friends in the fountains and took along some lunch. These are the containers we found at the Disney Store on sale for $2.99 each. They are a little small for lunches but perfect for a big snack.

Girls: mini ham/cheese sandwiches on King Hawaiian rolls, fruit leather in a butterfly shape, pretzels, carrot sticks, ranch dressing, grapes

I even packed one for myself in these new ziplock containers.

Click the button at the top to see other lunch ideas.

Muffin Tin Monday

2010-07-11T20:43:00.002-05:00

Muffin Tin Mom recently hosted a swap. I had fun chatting and swapping with Lisa at Two Bears Farm. The girls really loved opening their package. I had been eying the food pens for a while, I was so glad to see those.

Here's Evie trying out some of our new muffin tin supplies. She looks so serious!

Muffin Tin Meal: cucumbers/tomatoes, turkey hot dogs with a tinkerbell toothpick, peaches, teddy bear sandwich with a face and heart tummy

Menu Plan

2010-07-09T14:36:00.003-05:00

Here is what's on our menu for next week.

Baked Pasta with salad and bread

Egg and Cheese Waffle Sandwiches with fruit salad

Chicken Taquitos with Spanish Rice

Fried Rice with Teriyaki Chicken

Hot Ham & Cheese Sandwiches with fruit salad

Wallet Friendly Wednesday

2010-07-07T07:00:00.000-05:00

My mom was in town so I took her to my favorite thrift stores! Fun stuff...here's a little peek at what I found.

Sorry Game (all pieces and in great condition) $2
Computer learning toy $5
Vintage Coffee/Tea canisters $1.50 each
Flower clock 50 cents
Little jewelry box $1.98
Lamp $2.99
Iron trivet $1.98
6 Books (not pictured) 50 cents each

What's for Lunch Wednesday

2010-07-07T06:00:00.000-05:00

I think our summer excitement is ending...now we can coast through until school starts. This week I have been going to school and working in my new classroom so I pack the girls a snack/lunch. I've learned to always have something with me...they are constantly hungry.

grapes, turkey rolls, pretzels, 1/2 fiber one bar, laughing cow cheese wedge

Click the button at the top for some more lunch ideas.

A First

2010-06-30T22:00:00.004-05:00

Here is my latest bargain. I found this stool for my classroom for $15. Very sturdy and the perfect height...thanks to my friend who spotted it and tried it out for me!

Here is before. Taking out the staples was the hardest part. There were two layers of fabric to remove.

Here it is after. I love it! (just ignore the mess behind it please)

Here's the cost:
stool $15
fabric *free* because I already had it
foam *free* because it was still in good condition
staple gun *free* thanks to my dad

Now this is what summer is all about!

2010-06-27T09:38:00.001-05:00

The girls are enjoying the sprinklers at Nanny and PaPa's house...this is a first for them.

Nibble Trays

2010-06-21T07:27:00.004-05:00

One Little Word She Knew is hosting such a fun giveaway. She is giving away one of these super cute Nibble Trays by Dr. Sears.
My girls love Muffin Tin meals and our new craze, the Bento box. Sometimes it's all about the novelty. These kinds of "gimicks" also make tasting new foods easier.

Daddy Daddy He's Our Man...

2010-06-18T07:59:00.004-05:00

We celebrated Father's Day early since Elliya won't be here (She's heading on a jet plane to Nanny and Papa's...not by herself but still a big deal...her first trip without us.).

The girls and I went last week and took these pictures at the park. I still need to find the perfect frame.

I only had to buy the letters D, A, and Y...I found some chipboard letters at Hobby Lobby for under $2 and painted them white.

What's For Lunch Wednesday

2010-06-16T13:06:00.003-05:00

Here is a bento snack we took to the pool one day: apple slices, turkey rolls with grape tomatoes, puff corn, a fruit leather hidden underneath!

Click the button at the top to see more creative lunch ideas!

Be Kind Frame

2010-06-14T06:00:00.002-05:00

I came across this 11x17 frame tutorial at 320 Sycamore that I knew I wanted to try. I even copied her "Be Kind" quote that she used in her entryway.

I was going to hang this in my classroom (I figured 4th graders could understand this thought.) but then decided to hang it in our dining room.

Here's how I did it:

1. Found and 11x17 frame at a thrift store.

2. Painted the frame black and distressed the edges with my sanding block.

3. I printed out the quote and had it enlarged. I just took it to the local office supply store.

4. Trim the quote down to fit in the frame and hang it up.

This was definitely under $5.

Click the button below to see more great bargain inspiration!

Simple Gift Giving

2010-06-13T11:32:00.006-05:00

We had some college friends stop through this weekend and it was so fun just hanging out, swimming and letting the kids play while we had some adult conversation.

They are on an eight week trip traveling through the midwest raising support to go to Guatemala. You can read about their journey at Lastrapes Legacy.

I knew I wanted to give them a little something but it had to be travel friendly. I put together this little basket of snacks and goodies and some fun treats for the kids too.

Cheerios Snack Mix, Twix, Juicy Fruit gum, Skittles, nuts, panda cookies, chalk and bubbles, note pad, packages of thank you notes

I wanted to personalize it but didn't want to add too much fluff since they are traveling. I got out my scrapbook stickers and added their last name. I put everything in a plastic bucket I got from the dollar store.

Click the button below for other great ideas.

Summer To Do, Part 2

2010-06-13T07:07:00.005-05:00

I just came across some local things that sounded fun for the summer. If you're not local to DFW maybe you have similar things in your town.

Fountains (These are on a flat surface that come out of the ground.) - We have been visiting the fountains in Allen and Shops of Fairview for a while. Every night at 7pm there is a fountain show. When the show isn't going kids can run through the fountains. My girls love this! There are also plenty of places to eat before you cool off.

There are also fountains at Galatyn Park. This is right off the DART Rail. It's a great excuse to ride the DART Rail and stop to cool off in the fountains.

Summer Fun Thursdays at The Shops at Willow Bend (scroll down) - Every Thursday in July there is a different activity in the Grand Court at 2pm. Performances, making a pizza with California Pizza Kitchen, and even twisting pretzels with Auntie Anne's.

Museums in the DFW area - we're planning to hit Mrs. Baird's in Ft. Worth. Railroads to cowboys to money...so many to choose from.

Click the button to see 100+ free or really cheap activities.

Find It Games

2010-06-12T11:40:00.003-05:00

Have you seen these? Find It Games are like I Spy in a bottle. I've seen these used in a first grade classroom in learning centers. I had no idea there were so many different versions.

Jenn at Mama Jenn is giving one away. Go see her review and enter to win one for your family.

Natural Eczema Relief

2010-06-09T14:37:00.002-05:00

A few weeks ago I entered a giveaway at so much reviews for some Magnesium Bath Flakes by Ancient Minerals. I won a 6.5 pound container! I can't wait to try this on Evie. Just shows that it pays to enter those bloggy giveaways!

This is the part that got my attention:

Ancient Minerals Magnesium Flakes dissolved in warm water provide the user with a medicinal bath of cell restoring magnesium chloride...Ancient Minerals Magnesium Bath Flakes are also highly effective for healing skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, and dermatitis. Soaking in magnesium salts has been shown to markedly improve skin hydration, speed wound healing, enhance skin barrier function, and decrease inflammation.

What's for Lunch Wednesday

2010-06-09T07:25:00.004-05:00

Linking up this week with What's for Lunch at our House. Click the button above for other great bento lunches.

Turkey rolls, cheese shapes, grapes, yogurt covered raisins, gluten free cheese balls, applesauce with a fruit leather shape, and some gluten free animal crackers hiding on the edges.

We all scream for...cupcakes!

2010-06-07T07:26:00.003-05:00

I originally saw these at House of Hepworths. You can follow her Ice Cream Cupcake tutorial ...she even shows you how to make the pan.

Making the pan was the most time consuming part but once that's done it's easy breezy. I'd even consider making these for Elliya's class on her next birthday. I would save the pan and even use it to transport them.

Muffin Tin Monday

2010-06-06T22:51:00.004-05:00

On Saturday the hubs took the girls to the park and the pool all before noon...that's the way you have to do it in this Texas heat.

When they got back from the pool I had their lunches ready.

Big Sister: cheese cubes, cantaloupe, hot dogs, cucumber flowers, yogurt with sprinkles, gluten free animal crackers

Little Sister: tomatoes instead of cantaloupe

Elliya informed me she didn't really like the sprinkles on the yogurt or applesauce. I thought it was so cute..oh well!

Chicken Salad

2010-06-06T15:17:00.004-05:00

Here is a new twist on an old favorite:

2 cans Swanson white chicken - drain/break up pieces
1/2 of a red apple (skin on) chopped up (I used my electric chopper)
1 carrot chopped up (I just threw it in with my apple and chopped to desired size, there were some big pieces of apple so I just took those out.)
1/2 package ritz crackers, crumbled very finely
Shredded American cheese - a handful, more or less to taste

Add mayo to taste. Mix and chill!Serve on top of the new Wheat Thin Crackers (Garlic and Parsley)
(The original recipe called for red grapes and 2 tortillas chopped and sliced but I don't think it needs them...maybe the grapes for color.)

Eczema & Allergies

2010-06-02T13:16:00.003-05:00

For the past 7 months we have been battling Evie's eczema. The past 2 months have been the hardest...that's probably too strong of a word choice.

Around Evie's 2nd birthday in April her eczema really started to flair up. We used the hydrocortizone and eucerin like the doctor recommended but the eczema kept coming back. The doctor gave us a steroid cream to use for 7 days at a time. It would clear up but then come right back.

The last time (middle of May) I noticed it was mostly little rash like bumps isolated to her chin, neck, tummy, and back. Poor thing was so itchy. Allergy tests came back with a class 1 (minimal) allergy to wheat, soy, and walnuts.

Thus began the journey to change her diet to see if it would help. It has helped some and her skin is looking better but she is still a little itchy.

Here are some things we've done/thought/learned:

1. If a person suffers from seasonal allergies they will probably have eczema too.

2. People with eczema need a lot of moisture...regular lotion won't do that's why the doctor recommends something like Eucerin or Aquaphor...that stuff is thick.

3. Evie is especially itchy after she wakes up or gets hot...I can tell her skin is dry so I am often rubbing cream on her several times a day.

4. She has the typical eczema spots behind her knees but I'm more concerned with getting to the root of the itching and the little bumps on her tummy and back.

5. Wheat free is easy to do it's the soy you can't escape from but I found out that soy lecithin and soy oil (which is a gray area on nutrition labels) are probably not going to affect her. The weekend she really flared up before her allergy test she was drinking soy milk...so I know that definitely is on her "no" list. Then I learned that soy is so high in estrogen that no one should really be drinking it...why is it so popular then?

6. I am thankful Evie doesn't have a life threatening allergy then I don't have to worry about "may contain traces of..." or "made in a factory that also produces..." types of labels.

7. I am finding recipes and alternatives and will post those as we go...thanlfully she can still have some of her favorites like oatmeal, and some cereals.

8. Milk also aggravates eczema so we have taken her off milk to drink and limiting other milk products like cheese/yogurt to see if that helps. Someone recommended Rice milk and she actually likes it...just FYI, it's more watery than skim milk and kind of nutty tasting but not terrible.

9. A friend recommended rubbing cold pressed extra virgin olive oil on after baths...that is the purest form of EVOO. It feels good on her skin so I like it! I drizzle it on her and rub it in like lotion before she gets out of the tub, wrap her in her towel. By the time I unwrap her to put lotion on and get her dressed it's absorbed into her skin so she's not greasy at all.

10. I also made a lotion with coconut oil, beeswax, and vitamin e. It's pretty greasy so I just use a little. I am mainly using this to heal her skin from scars left from scratching.

I'll share more as we go along. I'd love any thoughts or experiences you've had with eczema.

What's for Lunch Wednesday

2010-06-02T11:59:00.004-05:00

Shannon over at What's for Lunch at Our House is hosting this new blog carnival to share a favorite bento lunch.

What is a bento lunch? Here is an official definition but in my mind it is a lunch packed in a cute container and more variety of food. It is also a green way to pack lunches - no ziplock baggies!

I've been searching all over the web trying to get ideas for lunches for my girls. They are nibblers so the novelty of a bento lunch is perfect for them.

This was a snack we took to the park the other day: fruit salad, cheetos, turkey rolls. I like this container by Sassy (found it with the baby food containers at Target $5.99) because the smaller containers are removable and have their own lids. I'm a little OCD when it comes to things like chips being airtight!

Click the button at the top of this post for other lunch ideas.

Muffin Tin Monday {First Day of Summer}

2010-05-31T08:05:00.002-05:00

Here is our summer themed breakfast muffin tin.

Banana pops (as seen here), applesauce bread, scrambled eggs with real bacon bits and cheese stirred in, mango, banana, carrot smoothies

Menu Plan Monday

2010-05-30T16:45:00.004-05:00

Seems like I come and go with menu planning. I actually always plan a menu but either forget to post it or it just isn't that exciting.

Here are some great recipes we tried over the last few weeks:

Denny's Style French Toast - This just gave a whole new taste to french toast...it was nice!

Applesauce Bread (substituted flour for Pamela's Baking and Pancake Mix) - I found this recipe via Gluten Free Naturally (more on that venture another time). It was so yummy and moist. I think maybe I'd leave the salt out next time but other than that I left the recipe the same.

Easy Skillet Lasagna - so yummy and easy. My noodles did take longer to cook but other than that it's a keeper!

Zesty Chicken Burritos - definitely a keeper, very tasty!

Now for this week's menu:

Easy and Addictive Spaghetti and Meatballs - meatballs intimidate me but I'll give it a try! I am switching Evie's noodles out for gluten free noodles and the rest of us will have the inexpensive spaghetti noodles.

Beef de Roma - I picked this because it seemed relatively inexpensive tasty.

Steak Bites, baked potatoes (in the crockpot), and salad

Teriyaki Glazed Chicken with brown rice

Dallas Tacos - a different twist on the usual taco

Click on the button at the top of this post to see more MPM ideas.

Birthday Presents for Kids

2010-05-29T13:21:00.012-05:00

When it comes to buying a present for other children it can be hard, especially if you don't know their favorites.

Sometimes I will buy a particular game or toy that Elliya is enjoying in hopes that her friend will enjoy it too.

Other times I go for the homemade option. Yes, this is more of a parent driven present but I usually have all the supplies on hand.

I knew I had several things to include so I found this cute "to go" box at Michael's for $3.99. They have ones that are already decorated but they weren't big enough. When I saw this one I knew I could easily dress it up with my ribbon.

This gift includes:

1. mini clipboard (rectangle coaster, paper, binder clip)

2. ruler (matching paper modge podged on the back of the ruler)

3. Smencil (a scented pencil found at the check out at Michael's

for $1.50)

4. Jolly Ranger grape lip gloss

5. Laffy Taffy (friend's favorite candy)

6. Card Kit (just some fun images for her to color and then she can assemble them)

Total Cost $7.50 + supplies I already had on hand

We {heart} Smoothies!

2010-05-29T07:40:00.003-05:00

My girls love smoothies. They are quick, easy, and nutritious.

Here is a new one I am going to sneak up on them with (insert rubbing hands and laugh)!

mango
banana
*carrots*
yogurt
honey to sweeten

I had one like this the other day and I couldn't tell there were carrots in there.

Here is my usual way to make smoothies.

1. Frozen fruit goes on the bottom of the blender (this way I can leave out the ice). If you use fresh fruit then the ice goes down first and the fruit is last.

2. vanilla yogurt

3. 1 cup apple/orange juice (this helps sweeten it as well as liquefy it so it's not so much like ice cream). 1 cup milk makes a creamier smoothie

4. Blend/pulse until smooth. When it starts to fold in on itself or make a little whirlpool it's done.

What is your favorite way to make a smoothie?

Summer To Do

2010-05-24T22:03:00.007-05:00

With the hubs working his summer job-so thankful for this blessing and that he makes this sacrifice for our family...it is very tiring-it's just me and the girls during the day. I am determined to get out and conquer the Texas heat. We've got swim lessons, pool, play dates, a little trip to Nanny and Papa's, and gymnastics camp already lined up.

Here are a few other fun and easy things I've found around the web that I'll be adding to our to do list.

Summer Writing Journal via I Blame My Mother

Summer Bucket List via Little Wonders' Days

Backyard Rainbow Hunt via teach mama

Reading programs at:

Half Price Books - fill out the form (you can do these all summer long) and earn a $5 shopping card for each one you turn in.

Borders Double Dog Dare

Barnes & Noble

Local public library - along with the reading program they have a lot of family movies and activities...check out your local library.

Calloway's Nursery Callies Kids Program

Free or cheap crafts at Michaels

Build and Grow at Lowes

Kids Bowl Free - 2 free games each day, check for your local participating lanes (We'll see how this works out with a 2 year old.)

What are things you plan to do this summer?

Mom's Book List

2010-05-24T07:53:00.006-05:00

I have found some books recently that are on my "to read" list. I thought I'd compile a list to share.

Growing Grateful Kids by Susie Larson

I recently read this review by Genny at My Cup 2 Yours.

Mixed: Portraits of MultiRacial Kids by Kip Fulbeck not only has beautiful pictures but also handwritten text by the children and their parents.
How I Pray For My Friends by Erik
You can go to Christian Children's Book Review to read about it.

The Mom I Want to Be by Suzanne Eller

Great Wolf Lodge - perfect for us

2010-05-18T13:33:00.003-05:00

Some of you may already know that we had a little getaway at Great Wolf Lodge. It was the perfect thing for this stage of our family. Elliya is six and can do a ton of stuff but we are held back a little bit by Evie who is only 2.

Let me just start by saying this was a very easy getaway...especially since we only had to travel 45 minutes.

Back when we got our tax return we started talking about taking the girls someplace fun this summer. We mentioned Sea World but I wasn't having an easy time making sure we could get the most for our money. Not to mention we'd have to travel 5 hours and get a hotel.

Then we remembered how much Elliya had been talking about Great Wolf Lodge. She heard the commercials on the radio, saw them on t.v. and even heard friends talking about it. This looked more promising.

We talked to a few friends that had gone and got some great tips. Since we are local we decided to only stay one night. You get access to the water park as early as 1pm on the day you check in and you have access until closing on the day you check out.

There is a chat/24 hour helpline on the website that I took full advantage of. Even though this is small on the scale of family vacations we had limited funds and wanted to make sure we got the most of our money. I asked them how much the games in the arcade were and how much the stuffing station (their version of build a bear) was.

There is a water play area that goes from ankle deep to knee deep water (on an adult) and it has a play structure and two small slides. One of the slides was great for Evie. Elliya enjoyed both of them. This is a great area to just hang out with little ones.

Elliya was tall enough to go on all the water slides but she was only brave enough to do two of them. We were so surprised at how much she liked them. For her it was a big act of bravery.

Here are some of the things we did:

*booked a room - So glad I heeded the recommendation to go on a Sunday/Monday...the water park was not crowded at all.

*A friend later forwarded me an email with a discount code...GWL honored that and I got 10% off our room.

*There are microwaves and mini refrigerators in each room so I knew we'd be taking snacks, although we really weren't there long enough to need them.

*When I got the extra discount on the room they offered me a great deal for breakfast...$20 buffet for the three of us (Evie was free). It was nice and fun to just wake up and go down stairs for breakfast.

*I found out at the last minute that we didn't need to bring towels...isn't that awesome?

*We spent a total of $300 (room, dinner out at cracker barrel, breakfast, souvenirs, arcade, locker)

Here are my recommendations that I learned:

*You don't really need a locker unless you are carrying a phone and money. Your room key is a wrist band. There are plenty of chairs and tables to leave your towels and shoes.

*We did the stuffed animals from the gift shop. They were a little bit cheaper and had more choices than the stuffing station. The stuffing station was like a little kiosk in the mall...nothing spectacular.

*The arcade was fun...gave lots of tickets and had a lot of prize choices. Way better than chuck e. cheese.

*There is something called "Magi Quest". You have to pay about $15 bucks for a wand and go through out the hotel finding different things. We didn't do this and I'm so glad. It's definitely for 8 and up and probably more for boys. Maybe a boy as young as 6 might like it but that would depend on their interests.

If you ever have the chance to go I think it is totally worth it!

Magneatos

2010-05-15T21:10:00.002-05:00

I just found a great blog that reviews everything from books to children's toys. Click the button above and head over.

Right now she is giving away a set of Magneatos from Guidecraft. My girls love their legos so I'm sure they'd love a set of these too.

Bargain Brags

2010-04-28T07:30:00.004-05:00

A friend and I recently decided to jump on the swap party train. We gathered some ideas from the web as to how to go about it.

We had so much fun! It was a simple start with a small group...just to get our feet wet.

Here is one of the items I picked up for *FREE*.

I love the distressed look but not so much the metallic. I'm not sure what to do with it but I know I want to paint it. I could dry brush it but I'm not sure which colors to use. Any ideas?

Click over to Bargain Shopper's Paradise (button above) to see what other bargains people are bragging about!

Candles at Dinner

2010-04-22T16:07:00.004-05:00

When I saw this relaxing candle centerpiece from Allison at House of Hepworths I knew I wanted to recreate it for our kitchen table. I was tired of having the napkin basket in the middle of the table.

I get so many ideas for HoH because they are quick, small and simple.

Remember this? My $3 Goodwill treasures?

Transformed to this:

Candles: already had
Beans: $1
Jars: $1 each
Tray: $1
Paint: already had

Happy Birthday Evo!

2010-04-21T19:59:00.000-05:00

silly faces
funny dances
singing along
"I do it" attitude
big smooch kisses

We love all of you!!

I Think We Might Have A Problem

2010-04-21T19:30:00.002-05:00

Bargain Brags

2010-04-18T22:36:00.004-05:00

I have big plans for these two jars and tray. 99 cents each!! I love the uniqueness of those jars.

I'm not sure what I am going to do with these yet but aren't they so cool...so different?
99 cents each! That one in the back on the left was originally from pier 1 and marked for $8...can you believe that?

To see what others are bragging about click on the button at the top of the post.

Babies, Knowing, and Changes

2010-04-18T22:22:00.002-05:00

I came across these links from We Are That Family and I just had to share.

Designer Babies - this is shocking but not really, more shameful I guess.

What to do when we don't know what to do - it's simple really.

When Changes Come - as a mom of two girls this encourages my heart.

Triple Hot Chicken Wings

2010-04-13T10:00:00.001-05:00

I have to tell you how I acquired this recipe. The other day we were waiting at the pharmacy for Elliya's allergy meds and there was a touch screen little computer there. You know, the kind where you can look up health info, etc. It was my answer to keeping Evie content for the last few minutes.

Well, the girls pressed just the right buttons to make something print. I had to chuckle when this recipe was printed. I thought, "Xavier would like this!" And I was right!

This was my first time to cook wings and I got some great instructions (because the recipe said to grill them and we don't have a grill) from my friend Sarah. These are definitely a keeper!

Triple Hot Chicken

2.5 pounds chicken drumsticks, thighs or wings
3/4 cup sugar
3/4 cup apple cider vinegar
2 TBSP liquid hot pepper sauce (I used the cheapest stuff)
1 TBSP chili powder
1 TBSP onion powder
1 TBSP garlic powder
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper

Mix the sauce together and set aside.

Rinse and pat chicken dry. Lay on a cookie sheet with foil sprayed with cooking spray. Sprinkle Tony Chachere's. Bake on 425 for 20 minutes. Turn over and bake for an additional 20 minutes.

Put a few chicken pieces at a time into a bowl. Spoon sauce over and stir them around. Place on baking sheet (I put a fresh piece of foil down). Put back in the oven on broil for about 5 minutes.

Save the remainder of the sauce for dipping.

It Can Be Done

2010-04-12T09:54:00.005-05:00

Well I am proud to say that the girl's room transformation is done.

I won't mention the sentimental feelings I had as the crib was being taken down and out the door. When it comes to small spaces, no room for storage, and no #3 on the horizon any time soon, some things just have to go.

We got Evie moved into her bed...let's just say I'm thankful I don't have a demanding schedule. The first night everything went smoothly until about 4 AM! Then it took 1.5 hours of the super nanny technique to make her stay in her bed. We just kept putting her back in hoping she would realize she didn't have any other choice.

Let's just skip ahead to the pictures because that's more fun!

You can see some before pictures {here}.

Since Elliya is making her way into first grade I thought she'd enjoy a desk.

The desk and chair before...$35 including primer and paint and some freebie supplies from a friend.

The desk after. See that oh so cute picket fence shelf? $15
And that cute Ikea flower lamp? $3
I am working on framing all of Elliya's drawings and putting them above her desk.

Evie's bed...that shelf has since been moved next to the desk.
Oh and that perfectly pink canopy? $3

LOVE this bookshelf. A garage sale find last year. $10 I think.

Elliya's new "tall" bed. I think she really feels like a princess now.

Click the button above to see what others are showing!

Sweet Brown Sugars

Holiday Cookies

Directions

The Little Dogs

Back in the Routine

Mother Daughter Relationships

Family Bible

Chess Cake

Paper Puppies

Teacher Gifts

A Journey Through Beatrix Potter's World

A Journey Through Beatrix Potter's World

A Journey Through Beatrix Potter's World

A Journey Through Beatrix Potter's World

Big Blessings

A New Twist on Jambalaya

Cookies & Cream Cupcakes

What's for Dinner?

Feta Apple Salad

Homemade Chicken Soup

Mosaic Art

Snow Drift Candle Holder

PB Knock Off Union Station Clock

Easy and Budget Friendly {Christmas Ornament}

Breakfast Quiche

Budget Bento

Monogram Ornaments

Silhouette Giveaway @ HoH!

And another...

Endless Possibilities

Kids + Coordinating (maybe) Outfits = Christmas Photo Cards

Pumpkin Yumminess

Potato Soup

Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

I *Heart* Fall

Lunch Punch Fun

Ramen Noodle Asian Salad

Menu Plan

Queen Bees and Wannabees - What about the boys?

Queen Bees and Wannabees - the rules of girl world, Part 2

Queen Bees and Wannabees - the rules of girl world, Part 1

Bringing Up Girls

Healthy Butter Spread

Muffin Tin Monday

Muffin Tin Monday

What's for Lunch Wednesday

Muffin Tin Monday

Menu Plan

Wallet Friendly Wednesday

What's for Lunch Wednesday

A First

Now this is what summer is all about!

Nibble Trays

Daddy Daddy He's Our Man...

What's For Lunch Wednesday

Be Kind Frame

Simple Gift Giving

Summer To Do, Part 2

Find It Games

Natural Eczema Relief

What's for Lunch Wednesday

We all scream for...cupcakes!

Muffin Tin Monday

Chicken Salad

Eczema & Allergies

What's for Lunch Wednesday

Muffin Tin Monday {First Day of Summer}

Menu Plan Monday

Birthday Presents for Kids

We {heart} Smoothies!

Summer To Do

Mom's Book List

Great Wolf Lodge - perfect for us

Magneatos

Bargain Brags

Candles at Dinner

Happy Birthday Evo!

I Think We Might Have A Problem

Bargain Brags

Babies, Knowing, and Changes

I Heart Fall