A Day in the Life...

Irish Hand Pies

2011-10-28T12:33:00.000-04:00

As many of you know, I am trying to go vegan. Even though I would be ecstatic if my hubby and kiddo would jump on the vegan bandwagon with me, it is not something I will even consider pushing on them. I am doing this for me, mostly to avoid any reactions due to my milk allergy, and I feel it is up to them to make such a decision for themselves.

Although I offer a taste of anything vegan that I am eating, I know they prefer a more traditional menu. Because I am tired of cooking two meals every dinner, I have been researching dinners that can be pre-made, frozen, and then thawed and cooked in a hurry. I already have an arsenal of vegan burgers and sides packed up in the freezer, so now it's time to do the same for my omnivorous family. ;) I made some Irish Hand Pies to freeze for later.

Recipe:

1Tbs. oil
¼ head of cabbage, sliced
1 ½ lbs. redskins, cleaned and diced
½ onion, diced
1 lb. ground meat (I used a combo of turkey and beef)
1 cup water
3 Tbs. tomato paste
1 Tbs. Worcestershire sauce
½ tsp. dried thyme
S & P to taste
2 rolls of pre-made pie crust, thawed.

1.) In a heavy bottom pan, heat oil. Add potatoes and cabbage, toss to coat. Saute on med-high for about 8 minutes, until the cabbage is wilted. Add onion and ground meat and cook until meat is no longer pink, stirring frequently.
2.) When meat is fully cooked, add water, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce and thyme. Stir to incorporate. Reduce heat to medium and cover. Simmer for 10 minutes until potatoes are soft.
3.) When potatoes are soft, mash everything with a fork or potato masher. Then, remove from heat and let cool completely. Divide cooled meat mixture into 8 equal servings.
4.) Divide each crust into 4 equal parts, roll to ¼" thickness, in the shape of a square. Place a portion of meat on one side of the prepared crust, and fold crust over to cover. Wet the edges of the dough with water and press with a fork to seal. Cut a few vents in the top.
5.) You can wrap each pie in plastic and freeze at this point.
6.) From thawed, bake in a preheated 400 oven for 12-15 minutes. From frozen, bake in a preheated 400 oven for 30 minutes.

I think I will try to make these vegan sometime soon, maybe using lentils or soy crumbles instead of ground meat. (I used a vegan Worcestershire sauce anyway, and the pie crust is 'accidentally' vegan.) I also think these will go great with a vegetable type soup, like a creamy tomato. :)

A Visitor

2011-10-24T23:37:00.001-04:00

I love looking out my kitchen window, I always get a glimpse of something wonderful.

This last weekend, I woke up to a morning visitor perched on my fence.

There are many hawks around our house. This is not the first time they've perched on my fence. A few months ago, I actually had two hawks sitting in my mulberry tree (although I doubt they were there for the fruit.).

This little guy is a juvenile Cooper's Hawk.

From what I have read young Cooper's have yellow eyes, and as they mature, their eyes turn to a red color, and their young brown and rusty colored feathers turn to a steely blue and brown.

I took a few pictures, and then just stood there watching him watching me.

I hope he comes by again, I think he is so beautiful.

Sign for Kiddo's Room

2011-10-21T17:53:00.001-04:00

Blame it on the Pinterest....

I saw a sign (if you are on Pinterest, you know the sign I am talking about) and I really wanted to recreate it for my daughter's room. The quote on the inspiration sign was from the song, "A Bushel and a Peck", which is a song I sing to my daughter. It was a song my mother and grandmother both sung to me. I can't stop giggling when I hear my daughter singing it to her stuffed Piggy (her favorite toy). :)

Trying to avoid any accidents, I decided this sign would not be made out of anything heavy (like wood). I just know since my daughter helped me make it, she would probably touch it a ba-gillion times, and I do not want it falling off the wall on her. Besides, I could make it wicked light and cheap by using foam poster-board. Done and done.

I used my new Cricut and some cheap-o vinyl shelf liner to make up all the wording. I used the only font cartridge I have- the Cricut's Don Juan. I spray painted the board Heritage white to match her bedroom furniture. Then when it dried, I carefully stuck the vinyl letters on. (I probably should have used a ruler, instead I just eyeballed the letter placement. ) Then, I got out three colors of acrylic paint (They all match her bed quilt.) and we got to work with some painted hand prints. Because I am impatient, I used my blow-dryer to dry the different layers of paint. By the time the paint was dry, Kiddo had finally finished washing her hands, and we continued painting with the next color.

After all three paint layers were on and completely dry, I carefully peeled off the vinyl. Now, all I have left to do is it hang it up! I have a trick up my sleeve (ok, truthfully, from Pinterest again. ) on how to hang this picture. I will post more on that one later. :)

BTW: I had the paints on hand. The poster board cost about $2.50 and the roll of vinyl was $2. Not too shabby! :)

Linking up:

... ♥ ...

2011-10-18T17:26:00.000-04:00

My daughter picked all these clover flowers for me today.

Who says "You can't measure love"?

*Sigh* I love that little one. :)

The Last Bit of Summer

2011-10-16T16:28:00.000-04:00

You know what? This was my first time making, and eating, fried green tomatoes.

Aren't they beautiful? This vibrant green color is so refreshing.

I doubt we'll see it again for a while, but that's ok.

I love the fall and winter seasons, and welcome them with open arms!

Anyhow, here's the recipe:

2 green tomatoes

1 tbsp. flax seeds, freshly ground and mixed with 4 tbsp. water (or other egg replacer)

1/4 cup cornmeal

1/4 cup whole wheat flour

1/2 cup almond milk (or other plant based milk. I like almond because its very thick and coats well)

3-4 tbsp. oil for frying

Salt and Pepper to taste

1.) Cut slices of tomatoes, blot the extra moisture with paper towels.

2.) Heat up a heavy bottomed pan on med-high heat, add the oil. Set up your 'dipping station'.

3.) Dip the tomatoes in milk, then in flour, then in flax mixture and finally in the cornmeal. Make sure to press the flour and cornmeal in to make a nice crust.

4.) Add to the hot pan, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and fry about 3-4 minutes on each side. I enjoyed these on toast, with fresh red onion, lettuce and vegan mayo.

Paired with a stack of sweet potato fries, this was a perfect Indian Summer dinner.

Winner!

2011-10-14T09:03:00.000-04:00

We have a winner for the UPrinting.com giveaway!

There was not a huge turnout... I was a little disappointed we only had two people enter...

But, anyway,

♥ GAIL ♥

You have won 100 personalize postcards

from UPrinting.com!

Please email me as soon as you can!

Giveaway Ends Soon!

2011-10-12T17:38:00.000-04:00

Don't forget to enter the UPrinting.com giveaway!

The winner will receive 100 free personalized postcards!

Click HERE to enter.

*Giveaway ends Thursday, Oct. 13th at midnight (EST)*

It's the little things...

2011-10-12T10:52:00.000-04:00

I know I've been posting tons about food lately. My apologies to those coming here hoping for crafts. It's just that I have been trying really hard to avoid all milk products (due to my allergy) and in doing so, I have discovered a new world of yummy foods.

Usually, I don't miss any sort of milk products at all. But every once in a while, I come across something that reminds me of what I have been going with out...

And it is JUST. SO. GOOD.

Sigh... This vegan cheese spread is made from oatmeal, pimentos, nutritional yeast, a little oil and onion powder. (Who would have thought to mix those things together??) And it tastes just like pub/beer cheese. It is low in calories, and has no cholesterol.

I am one happy girl. :)

If it Ain't Broke...

2011-10-10T23:50:00.000-04:00

Is it just me or did Blogger go a ruin a good thing??

I'm having the hardest time with their new 'Updated Blogger Interface'! It's extremely restrictive when it comes to changing your template or backgrounds.... Ugh.

Is anyone else having trouble with it, or am I just one of those people that is terrible at getting used to changes?

Pinterest: Wreaths

2011-10-08T12:02:00.002-04:00

** Don't Forget to Enter the Giveaway For 100 FREE Personalized Postcards!!! **

I have been loving Pinterest lately... Maybe even a little too much... I have so many ideas of things I would like to do, I don't know where to begin! :P

I do need to gussy up my front porch area for fall. I haven't done anything 'big' to that porch since last year with my painted rug and rocking chair. I suppose I should start with a new wreath.

Now I just need to figure out which one I like best.

Any suggestions?

All images were found on Pinterest, and any links provided from there I linked up with each image.

Giveaway!!!

2011-10-06T17:48:00.000-04:00

Hey folks! I was recently contacted by Drew from Uprinting.com , and he is giving one of my readers an amazing prize package!

As you all know, the holidays are already coming full steam ahead. Get a heads up on your Holiday cards this year! Postcards are one way to express your affection and care to your loved ones. Leading online printing companies have come up with various designs that will suit up your creativity. One lucky winner will get the following prize:

100 (5" x 7") Post Cards

14pt Cardstock Gloss

No Folding

Front Only Printing

With FREE SHIPPING (2 Business Days Print Turnaround)

Pretty sweet deal, huh?? You have FOUR chances to win!

• Follow A Day in the Life... (or tell me you are already following! BTW, you don't have to follow to enter, it just gives you an extra chance.)

• 'like' UPrinting on Facebook (click HERE)

• Follow UPrinting on Twitter (click HERE)

• Sign up Giveaway Blogs (click HERE)

PLEASE, leave separate comments for each entry.

Details:
• A winner will be chose via Random.org on Thursday, October 13th.
• If you leave a comment anonymously, please be sure to include a first name and your email address.
• If the winner does not contact me by Friday, October 14th, they automatically forfeit their prize, and a new winner will be chosen. (Again, by Random.org)
• You can only win this giveaway (with UPrinting) once in a 6 month period. Giveaway open to US residents only.

GOOD LUCK EVERYONE!! :)

*This giveaway is sponsored by UPrinting, no monetary compensation was given and I will receive a postcard for hosting.

Tomato/Carrot/Pasta Soup

2011-09-25T23:51:00.001-04:00

Since the weather got chilly here today, and it had been storming all day long, I felt I needed a good hearty soup. A soul-warming kind of soup. Something chunky, something savory. Luckily, Pinterest offered some good ideas to get me started on just what kind of soup I would make today.

I followed a link found on Pinterest to find this recipe, and I used it as the base for tonight's dinner. I made a few tweaks to the recipe to come up with something that I know I will be making again. :)

Here's the recipe for the soup I ate tonight, including the 'tweaks' I made:

2 Tbsp. vegan butter (Or you could use olive oil)

3 large carrots, peeled and sliced

1 stalk of celery, sliced

1 medium onion, chopped

1 Tbsp. bottled minced garlic

pinch dried thyme

2 Tbsp. chopped fresh basil

2 cans of diced tomatoes plus liquid

3 cups vegetable broth

1 tsp. sugar

1 cup Silk's PureCoconut milk

Salt and Pepper to taste

Pasta* (I made homemade, recipe below.)

1.) In a Dutch Oven, melt butter over med-high heat. Add carrots, celery, onion, garlic and thyme. Saute until the onion and celery are soft.

2.) Add basil, both cans of tomatoes, vegetable broth and sugar. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium and simmer for 1/2 hour or until carrots are soft. Add coconut milk (this helped to cut the acidity of the tomatoes, it gave it a little sweetness. I recommend Silk coconut milk over the canned variety- it has less fat and isn't quite so 'coconutty').

3.) Now, add your pasta and simmer for 8-10 minutes or until pasta is done. I made homemade pasta, in which case I boiled in a separate pot so it didn't thicken the soup up too much. *Now that I have tasted this, I know next time, I will use tortellini or gnocchi. This soup needs a heavy pasta.

Pasta recipe:

1 cup whole wheat flour (I used ww white flour)

1/2 tsp. salt

1 tsp. olive oil

1/4 cup water

1.)Add all to a food processor or mixer. I used my KitchenAid mixer with the dough hook, and it worked perfectly. Mix until a smooth dough ball forms. Add a tsp of water at a time if the dough appears to be too dry.

2.)On a floured surface, roll the dough out to a 1/4" thickness. Cut into pieces/strips. Shake more flour on top, and let rest on a baking rack for about an hour.

3.) Boil for 6 minutes in salted water, and then add to your soup.

This was a great soup. I can tell its a very versatile soup, too, whereas you can add just about whatever type of pasta/grain you have on hand, and any other types of veggies. I think next time, I may add some corn. Tonight, however, I just enjoyed it with a little Daiya Mozz on top (vegan mozzarella).

Thank Goodness for left-overs!!

Skunk'd.....

2011-09-18T23:08:00.001-04:00

My dear pup Coe, in all of his doggy wisdom, decided to play with a skunk yesterday in the middle of the night. Hubs and I were staying up late watching a spooky movie, and all of a sudden, we could smell something awful. (To tell you the truth, it didn't quite smell like true 'skunk' at first. It smelled like something awful was burning!) I peeked out of the back door and saw Coe trying to rub the stank off of his face with his paws, and then frantically rubbing his face in the grass.

After a quick trip to Walmart, I came home with the necessary supplies to make the magic recipe to help de-skunk a dog. (And no, it is not tomato juice!) If this ever happens to you, mix this recipe together and shampoo your pet immediately with it.

De-skunkin' Soap:
1 quart of Hydrogen Peroxide
1/4 cup baking soda
1-2 Tbsp. Dawn Dishsoap (I used Hypoallergenic)

I made a double batch right away and hosed off poor Coe in the backyard. Not something I really want to do again on a Saturday night, but, at least it worked. I really think Coe got sprayed full blast (and at close range) right in the face. He seems pretty lethargic today, but he has a good appetite and a cold nose, so we're going to wait this out and see how he feels tomorrow.

And just to show that I have no hard feelings to the stinky little guy that ruined 'Movie Night', here's some really cute pics of skunks that I found. And a video. (Who can resist any kind of animal baby videos?)

Aren't they just so STINKIN' cute??

(Click on pics to see their sources)

Goodies From Afar...

2011-09-14T22:58:00.000-04:00

Yesterday felt like Christmas for me.

I ordered my gifts from Novica and was told they would get to me between September 13th and September 20th. So, like a normal person (who never gets their mail in a timely manner), I expected to receive these items on or around September 21st. When my door bell rang, I was shocked to see the Fed Ex guy holding some packages for me! I quickly signed for them and ran inside.

Want to see what I ordered??

Two Condiment Cups (from Bali)

Aren't those little Lizards so cute??

Pearl Earrings (from Thailand)

My first Pearl earrings...

And a Shoulder Bag (also from Thailand)

I know, It needs to be ironed... I couldn't help my self ! Iron, Schmiron!

I am so happy with these gifts!! They are beautiful and well made. They were wrapped up so beautifully, I would love to order some gifts from Novica for my family.

Thanks so much, Ricky and Novica, for giving me the opportunity to see what your company is all about! It couldn't be any better. I will definitely be a repeat customer. :)

Here's some other links I think everyone would be interested in:

** I was too excited to wait and iron the bag, and we had to errands to run so I threw my wallet and such in the bag and left! And you know what? Those pesky wrinkles fell out on their own! Score!! **

New things....

2011-09-07T23:45:00.000-04:00

Well... My little girl is just growing up too fast. It's bittersweet, really. I'm a little sad that time is going by so fast, but I'm so excited for her to meet new kids and make new friends and have new experiences.

I know she's going to have so much fun

making artwork for us to proudly display on the fridge.

She's totally ready for school, and I am the one that's taking baby steps!

Wow, Time Flew By!

2011-09-04T00:09:00.000-04:00

Well hello again to everyone in Blogland! I surely didn't mean to take this much time off! I needed some quality time with my family, and with the summer slipping away, I had to step away form the computer. (Except I was still Pinning away of course.... But that doesn't count, does it?)

Anyhow, my little break from my blog ended when I was contacted by Ricky from Novica. I had never heard of Novica, and was so pleased to learn that it is a website that sells goods made by fair trade artisans from around the globe. Not only do you get an opportunity to buy one of a kind, authentic items, but you also learn the story behind the makers of these items. It has so many interesting and beautiful items to choose from, this will surely make a great place to shop for those who 'have two of everything' during the holidays.

If you haven't clicked on the link above to see what Novica is about, here's a little preview... Just click on the pictures to see what I'm talkin' about ;)

Beautiful scarves for women and men:

Totally Awesome Handbags and Purses:

Gifts For Home:

Jewelry for Men and Women:

Ricky was so generous to offer me a gift certificate from Novica to sample some of their goods. I am so excited, I feel like a kid in a candy shop. :) I will post soon to tell you what I picked out, and how my experience was. I already have a wish list growing for Christmas presents... and not just for myself, but for the whole family!

Thank you Ricky and Novica for this opportunity!

Thanks Tammy!

2011-07-06T23:47:00.000-04:00

Tammy, from Simple Southern Happiness introduced me to the idea of making homemade peanut butter. This is such a great idea for many reasons:

You can make it from whatever nuts you want. Peanut allergy? Use sunflower seeds! Like a milder butter? Use cashews! Like almonds? Go for it! (Ummm... Go NUTS! ... Ok, lame joke, but I couldn't resist :P )
You can alter the amount of salt you use. Most store bought peanut butter are not super high in sodium, but still, if you need to omit it because of a special diet this is an easy way to do it!
You chose what sugar (if any) goes into it. This is an important one because most PB's have tons of sugar, usually HFCS. I suggest sweetening it with natural sugars: agave, honey, or maple syrup to name a few. Most have the same calorie content, but agave is super low on the glycemic index. (Its safe for diabetics, too.)

Check out Tammy's version of Homemade Peanut Butter! I didn't have peanuts in the house, so I just made do with what I had on hand. Here's what I used:

1 cup raw cashews (roasted on a cookie sheet: 350 for about 10 min.)
1/4 cup toasted and salted sunflower seeds.
1/8-1/4 cup olive oil (Sorry, I just poured straight in, I just 'eyeballed' the measurement.)
2 tsp. dark agave nectar.

Just mix all in a food processor, adjust the salt/sweetener to your own needs. I don't know if its necessary or not, but I'm storing this in the fridge just to be safe. :)

Thanks so much, Tammy for the inspiration! I will have to try homemade peanut butter soon!

Happy Independence Day!

2011-07-04T01:09:00.002-04:00

A very Happy Fourth of July to you all.....

(shorpy)

Hope you had a safe and fun holiday!

Good stuff....

2011-06-29T23:46:00.002-04:00

I am so happy to solve my little mayo dilemna... Although, I thought I would just have to learn to live with out it. It was awful to think that I would have to give up potato salads, pasta salads, chicken salads (ok, you get the pattern here) and most of all, my favorite salad dressing: ranch. I could have just sucked it up and bought a jar of Vegannaise, but at $8.00 a jar, I wouldn't have enjoyed it! I'm happy to say, I quickly mastered a vegan mayo recipe, and now have all those lovely foods back in my life. :)

Here's the recipe, and I promise, it's so easy and so good, even non-vegans will love it. :)

In a blender, mix together:
1 cup soy milk
1 tsp. salt
1 Tbsp. agave nectar or maple syrup
1 Tbsp. smooth Dijon mustard

~Blend for about 20 seconds, then open the lid (or the little access hole) to pour a thin steady stream of oil. You will need about 2-2 1/4 cups of oil, I used a mix of olive and canola.
~Mix together for about 40-60 seconds or until thickened, and then slowly drizzle in 3 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar.
~Taste test, and add your own specific seasonings- for example, garlic, cayenne pepper, cilantro, rosemary....

To make into vegan ranch dressing:
1 cup vegan mayo
1/4 cup soy milk, rice milk or water
1/2 tsp. garlic powder (more or less depending on how much you like garlic!)
1/2 tsp. black pepper
1/2 tsp. cilantro
1/4 tsp. oregano
1 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice, or apple cider vinegar.

Mix together and taste test. Season to your liking, this is just how I like it!

Summer just wouldn't be summer with the salads... :)

Dairy Free? I thought so.

2011-06-25T20:28:00.002-04:00

I have discovered why I have had such bad reactions lately. I have been sick for about a month now, and I think I finally found out why.

Mayonnaise.

I love the stuff. (Shudder if you want to, I know it's not for everyone, but I ♥ it.) I put it on every sandwich, use it in salads (tuna, chicken, potato, etc...) I have even found some incredible recipes to make a sauces or dressing with it. I was so excited to make 'Dairy-Free Ranch Dressing' with it. I thought I wouldn't have to miss out on my old milk-y favorites, and mayonnaise slipped into my diet at least 4-5 times a week. I thought I was doing a good job at eating my milk-free diet, so why have I had a month long chain of reactions??

The ingredients list on the mayonnaise doesn't say anything about having a milk derivative in it. I thought it was a 'safe' food. I was so wrong. I found out that most Mayo's that label their vinegar as simply 'Vinegar' are using vinegar derived from whey. HUGE BUMMER. This vinegar can contain milk proteins. To avoid 'milky' vinegar, it must read specifically what type of vinegar it is, ex: Apple Cider Vinegar or White Distilled Vinegar. (BTW, most vinegar flavored chips also use the whey derived vinegar.)

So, now that I have solved the Mystery of the Milk-laced Mayo, back to my Dairy Free diet I shall go. (and I'm going to try the vegan soy mayo, just to see if I can keep some of my new favorite recipes around.) :P

*By the way, Other foods that you may not have realized have milk in them are: some canned Tuna fish, Centrum vitamins (have lactose to hold the pill together), whole fresh poultry may be infuse with lactose to keep the meat fresh- use Kosher birds, Wine (Casein is used as to clarify the wine.). Crazy, huh? What's super frustrating is most of these products don't reveal their milk content in the 'Ingredients' list. (even though milk is in the Top 8 for food allergies.)

My resources: 1, 2, 3.

Berries

2011-06-22T18:21:00.000-04:00

I've been doing a lot of yard work the last few days... Nothing special, just a lot of maintenance that has needed to be done for a while. While working in the yard, I realized our tree has beautiful berries on it, so ripe they are dropping on the ground. Not wonder birds flock to this tree, it must be a heavenly treat to them!

From my research, this seems to be a Mulberry Tree. Not a bush, a tree. This sucker may get up to 80 feet tall! To harvest the berries, I read to lay tarps under the tree and gather whatever falls. I think I should still take these berries and maybe a leaf into my local nursery to see if they can tell for sure what species it is.

I can already see jam and pies being made. :)

Homemade Vitamin C Serum

2011-06-11T23:33:00.002-04:00

Who here is enticed by those little glass bottles of serum promising to reverse wrinkles, reduce pore size, lighten hyper-pigmentation and give your skin an all over glow?

um... ME! That's who!!! Please tell me I am not alone...

I definitely abused the tanning beds when I was younger, and I didn't put sunscreen on like I should have when I went to the pool/beach. Now, I'm sort of paying the price. It's not terrible, but I am seeing pesky little wrinkles that seem to stick around long after I'm done laughing... Or from wrinkling my forehead, which apparently I do any time I concentrate on anything. :P

I also want to use something on my skin that is natural. Some products seem so harsh, and I think sometimes they do more harm than good. I can't help but to worry about what goes on my skin after I read the dangers of using products with parabens, phthalates, and Diethanolamine (DEA). (Scary stuff, people. If you have time, read up on the links to learn more about how hazardous these chemicals can be.)

Ok, onto the real question:
Who wants to use a natural serum that does all the hard work that the other serums do, while not costing you an arm and a leg? I do! I do!!

Here's the simple recipe. Bonus: It's pretty cheap, too. :)

~First, take a small container. Glass is best, dark amber/blue glass is even better.

~Then, dissolve a 1/4 tsp of Ascorbic Acid (powdered Vitamin C) in 1 tsp. water (preferably distilled). This is the longest part of the whole recipe. The acid crystals have to be completely dissolved before you proceed, and this took about 1 hour for me.

~After the crystals have dissolved, add 1/2 tsp. of glycerin. Then take a pin and poke a hole in a vitamin E gelcap and squeeze the contents into the mixture. (the original recipe calls for just 1 tsp. of glycerin and no vitamin E, which felt sticky to me. This works out a lot better- it easily absorbs into your skin, and doesn't feel as sticky. Vitamin E teams up with Vitamin C to be a really good antioxidant. The capsule isn't shown in this picture only because this was my first 'go' at it. I added it to my second batch.)

That's IT!!! This jar should last a month or so, but if it turns yellow or orange, it has oxidized and has expired.

I added a link to buy Ascorbic Acid, but I found mine in my health-food store in the bulk vitamin section. (I was able to buy just a few ounces of it instead of a whole honkin' bottle.) The glycerin can be found in the pharmacy section at Walmart, or near the skin remedy section at your pharmacy. The Vitamin E gelcaps are just your average vitamin. (Cost Breakdown: approx. $4 for the Ascorbic acid, $2 for the Glycerin, 67c for the distilled water, and $4 for GNC's bottle of 400 Vitamin E gelcaps. A total of $11 for a ~~lifetime~~ humongous supply of Vitamin C serum.)

Hope you all enjoy!!

Linking up:

A Little Motivation, Please...

2011-06-08T00:38:00.000-04:00

I just haven't been feeling very crafty lately. I inadvertently consumed some type of dairy product, and I've been sick for the last two weeks. I have needed to stay close to home, and it's left me with very little energy. The worst part is that I haven't the slightest clue what the heck caused this reaction, because I have be Oh So Careful about what I eat. The one thing I have learned is that not all processed foods list each and every ingredient that goes into their product- so I could've accidentally eaten some kind of milk derivative without even knowing it. I really should know better than to trust information labels on processed foods, and just stick to whole food items.

Anyway- I feel like I'm starting to come around again, and I just needed to take a few minutes and gather some inspiration for some crafty ideas to accomplish soon. I have had a crazy urge to sew lately, so I perused the internet for some cheap sewing crafts. Here's some of the things I want to do soon:

~ Dress Form. I really can't afford to drop $100 on a 'real' dress form when I don't even know if I will use it a lot. I found a way to make one. With duct tape. All I need is the tape, an old shirt and some newspaper. As soon as I remember to buy the tape, I will ask my husband to help me make the tutorial. :) (This will be good. Duct tape to the rescue!!)

~ Bandanna Dress and Bandanna Apron for my daughter. I'm sure if I find some pretty bandanna's she will super excited about this one. This girl loves to be in a dress. The apron is super cute and easy too.

~Shift Dress. It seems easy enough. I really hate wearing shorts. So this may be a good solution to staying breezy and cool this summer, it's supposed to be a hot one!

~Drawstring Pants, for me and my daughter. Matching Mommy/Daughter PJ's? It sounds too cute, right? The pattern couldn't be easier, and it would be nice to stop wearing the flannel polar bears/snowflakes/red plaid PJ's that I got around Christmas time last year. They are super comfy, but .... High time to pack 'em up.

~ Up-cycled towel/sweater/sock animals. As if my daughter needs one more stuffed animal to play with, I found some uber cute patterns on how to use up old sweaters and what-not. One of the patterns is for a sweater pig, and if it's one thing my daughter loves, its pigs!!

So there you have it. I hope I can start on one of these things this weekend. I got most of these ideas from MarthaStewart.com . Which is one of the best craft/entertaining sites to check out when you're bored.

And, Since I hate to have a post with out a picture, here's something I came across at Shorpy.

I had to giggle when I read the description of this photo.

Which is funnier: The fact that in the 1920's bathing suits weren't allowed to be more than 6" above the knee, or the fact that the policeman doing the measuring has nothing better to do than to bust some ol' ladies on the beach? LOL~

DIY Dishwasher Detergent

2011-05-30T16:02:00.003-04:00

I just might have the pickiest dishwasher ever made. Nothing ever seems to come clean unless I use those all in one Cascade packs. You know, the ones that have the powder and gel mixed in one handy packet, the ones that cost a LOT? Yeah. Those. I hate paying that much for something that does such a simple job. (But, I hate washing dishes by hand, so I just grit my teeth every time I have to refill my Cascade stash.)

What's a girl to do? Make it myself, of course!

First, I took an old (clean) pickle jar and added the following:

1/2 cup Borax

1/2 cup Super Washing Soda

1/4 cup kosher salt

1/3 cup Citric Acid

Cover and shake to mix thoroughly. I added an old infant formula scooper to measure (it is about 1 1/2 teaspoons). I have been using this along with JetDri, although when that's all used up my new go-to rinse aid will be white vinegar. So far, my first 3 loads have come out sparkle-y clean! (Usually, if I use anything but Cascade, all of my glasses look etched and everything has a filmy residue on it. This could be because we have very hard water...)

As soon as I get more ink for the printer, I plan on sticking this label on the jar! If you want it, go ahead and save the image! I got the original HERE from Graphic's Fairy, and altered it with Picnik.

I also saw this recipe (I adapted it for water hardness and added a little extra citric acid) over at DIY Natural. Many thanks to Matt and Betsy for sharing such wonderful eco-friendly recipes. :)

Linking up To:

That Brat We Call Blogger...

2011-05-28T23:53:00.000-04:00

Just kidding, Google. Please don't give me any more trouble for calling Blogger a Brat. ;)

To those out there- I'm reading away, typing away comments, and Poof! Out of no-where I'm getting a 'Not Found' message when I try to sign in (again and again, even though I click the 'Stay Signed In' box). I am no longer able to comment now. I have read all over how people are having huge problems with Blogger right now, and so far my problems have been minimal.

I am reading, and trying to comment. We'll all just have to sit tight and hold our breath for all this Blogger trouble to go away. Until then...

Ahh.. No Mow Lawns....

2011-05-25T12:28:00.000-04:00

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Slowly but surely, I am growing a no-mow lawn. (In just the back yard, of course. We feel the pressure to maintain a 'standard' grassy front lawn). I started to see the spread of red and white clovers, and after seeing how soft and luscious and green clover was got me thinking, "I wish my whole lawn was like this!". Of course, and with many ideas that just come to you, once you Google it, you find out many people are already doing said idea.

Source Unknown

I have learned that clover is a great replacement for your standard grass lawn. It's low maintenance, and better yet- it is drought tolerant. It is soft to walk on, and stays a beautiful bright green. Clover usually needs no 'weeding' because it has very long roots that seem to 'snuff' out weeds. It also doesn't get burn or yellow if you have dogs going potty on it. No need to worry about fertilizer either! Just plant it and go. I have read that you may have to re-seed every three years, but that doesn't seem like a lot of work. It only grows to be about 8" tall, so if you really want to mow it, you may only have to do it a few times in a single summer.

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The only possible downfall I have read is that clover attracts honeybees. So, if you are allergic (which we are not) it may not be the best idea. But if you are okay with bees, know that you are doing a good deed by providing them with that much more to feed on. :)

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Here's some more links (besides the ones that the photos came from) that I found very helpful:

WikiHow to Grow a Clover Lawn

A Lawn Full of Four-Leaf Clovers

Garage Sale Goody!!

2011-05-22T23:01:00.002-04:00

I am not one of those people that get out to garage/yard sale often. Don't get me wrong, I'd like to be one of those people! But, I don't always find the ambition to get up and look 'presentable' enough to be seen in public before 8 am. I usually wake up at 8, mosey around in pj's and talk about dreams with my 3 year old until 9am, make breakfast for everyone, then we all veg out and cuddle until 10:30 or so. Crazy? Lazy? Who cares... With a hubby that usually works third shifts, this is a great bonding time for us as a family, similar to the 9-5 family's dinner time.

I digress...

The other day, I was coming home from an appointment, I saw a big "Neighborhood Garage Sale" sign at a subdivision down the street from ours. I thought to myself, "What the hey- give it a go..." and pulled into the neighborhood to do some snooping. I stopped at one house and found a train table, for $20!! I was so excited, because the kiddo got one of those wooden train sets last Christmas, and we needed a big table for her to keep it set up on. I couldn't believe my luck, especially because brand new, this table retails for about $150! Bonus: It has two drawers that can hold all of her train stuff and then some!

It was a little dinged up, and the bright green had to go...

Nothing a few cans of spray paint couldn't fix!

Look at how happy she is! $20 (well, $28 if you include the cost of the paint) well spent!! :)

Now, I have to do is move this colossal train table downstairs!

*Edited to Add* The horrendous green is now 'Olive' and the scratched up white finish is 'Almond'. Not bad! I hope it will look good near her play kitchen downstairs. :)

Flea and Tick Prevention for Dogs (Pt.2)

2011-05-16T08:36:00.001-04:00

Ok, so here's the scoop on Natural Flea and Tick Prevention. There are a lot of links out there if you just google search it, but here's a few things that I am willing to try, as well as some things that I would not.

Good Ideas:

-Essential Oils (Rubbed on a bandanna or collar)

~Cedar Oil, found Here or at your local natural food store. Supposedly, bugs hate the smell of cedar and avoid it as much as they possibly can. It smells pleasant to us, and is safe for your dog, too.

~ Lavender, Eucalyptus, Citronella, Clove and Wintergreen are all essential oils that repel these pesky bugs. Dot a bit of oil on a bandanna or collar, or brush a few drops through the fur.

-Diet Changes

~Brewer's Yeast, Safflower Oil, Dried Kelp or Seaweed

when added to the daily diet should naturally repel ticks.

-Yard Control

~Keep lawn mowed short, and brush kept to a minimum.

~Plant flowers and plants that repel bugs naturally with scent.

Geraniums, Mint, Citronella are good plants to start with.

~Fencing, to keep tick infested deer out of your yard.

Also, a boarder of gravel or mulch (cedar is most effective)

will discourage ticks and fleas to travel into a space.

Bad Ideas:

-Garlic. As a member of the onion family, garlic could be poisonous to dogs and cats, causing anemia that is potentially fatal. Even though I have read that garlic can be safe in small doses for a large dog, I do not recommend it.

-Essential Oils if you are pregnant. Talk to your doctor before you try any home remedies first.

-The use of Diatomaceous Earth, Or "DE" on either your lawn or a flea dust on your dog. Studies have shown DE can cause irritation in the lungs and on the skin.

Hope this helps anyone out there! I'm going to try the essential oils on my dog's collar when we take him out fishing, camping, or for a trek in the woods. I hope it works, because I just can't trust the over the counter standard medications. Coe is finally getting over that terrible reaction, and I hope he never goes through it again!

Here's a few links to resources I came across during my research.

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8.

Flea and Tick Prevention for Dogs (Pt.1)

2011-05-14T23:42:00.000-04:00

This is a picture of my sweet pup, Coe.

He has been an itchy mess the last few weeks. Why? Well, we were kind of wondering the same thing. He does get seasonal allergies, which are the worst in early spring- usually resulting in red watery eyes, itchy ears and possibly an ear infection. But this year took the cake. This poor guy has been scratching like crazy, chewing up his paw pads, gnawing on himself to the point he started loosing patches of fur. And then, it dawned on me... This all started about a day or two after we gave him his first dose (ever) of Frontline.

Yikes! Maybe, it's not all Frontline's fault. Perhaps Coe is having his typical allergy attack and this medication pushed everything to a whole new level. I'm not one to bad-talk a company, but it did make me a little nervous putting this medication on him. As soon as I opened up the single dose capsule, my own eyes started burning. But I put in on him anyway thinking prevention is easier than exterminating a house full of fleas or ticks. (eeewwww......) And, as I applied the medication, I immediately felt a little guilty and nervous for him.

After a week and a half of Benadryl, hydro-cortisone sprays and baths and putting that goofy lampshade collar on him, I finally got an appointment with his Vet. She did a number of tests on his skin to make sure it was a case of mites or mange. She did find some bacteria on his skin, but she told me that could have come after the initial reaction. :/ (More guilt.) A bottle of medicated shampoo, antibiotics, and a steroid shot later, we were back home and Coe finally looked like he was getting some relief.

This prompted a little bit of research on natural prevention of fleas and ticks on dogs. Stay tuned to the results, I don't think I should make this post any longer!! :)

Dairy-Free Salad

2011-05-11T16:29:00.013-04:00

Sounds like a no brainer, right? But, when you love ranch dressing and all the goooood toppings on salad (like bacon bits, croutons, cheese sprinkles etc... ) like I do, having a standard Dairy-Free salad... well, sucks.

Slowly, I have made my way back into yummy scrumptious food, all the while maintaining a DF diet. Now, I am back to having my salads the way I used to. I am just so happy about it, I may have salad everyday for the next week. :)

First, let's tackle the little things:
Bacon bits- you have to use real bacon or vegan 'bacon'. Turkey bacon and fake bac'n bits (you know, the 'bright red-threatens to crack a tooth because they're so hard' kind?) they almost always have Sodium or Potassium Lactate in them. A no-no if you're trying to go DF. Double check the real bacon too- you just never know when dairy pops into things.
Cheese- Obviously not the real kind! lol I'm talking about Daiya cheese. It's so good, you might forget that you aren't consuming actual cheese. Its tastes/smells/cooks like the real thing. And, they have it in Pepper Jack too now. (as well as Mozz and Cheddar-style) If I'm having an Italian type of salad, I found a decent Soy-Parmesan from my local health food store.
Croutons- It's very hard to find croutons in a 'normal' grocery store that are DF. Most have butter in them, or the bread itself has dairy in it. So, I make croutons myself. I take DF rolls, cube them and toss them with a few tbs. of olive oil and a pinch of salt and garlic powder. Bake for 8 minutes at 400, and they're perfect!

And now, for the ultimate DF Ranch dressing, mix together the following:
1 cup ~~mayo~~ *** use Vegan Mayo (see why below)
1 cup rice milk (or soy, or almond.)
1/2 tsp each of garlic powder and onion powder
1/4-1/2 tsp each of Oregano, Basil and Coriander
1/2 tsp pepper
1 Tbs. lime juice (If you prefer 'buttermilk' ranch, use real lemon juice.)

Let rest for a few hours in the fridge. This is so good, you'll forget it's 'special'!

If you are going Dairy Free and you have other salad topping or salad dressing recipes,

I would love to hear about them! :)
*** EDITED TO ADD***
I recently discovered (after about a month straight of reactions, not knowing what I was eating wrong) that mayo's that describe their vinegar as just 'Vinegar' and not 'Distilled White Vinegar' could be derived from MILK. I found a study that shows most mayonnaise use a vinegar that is distilled from WHEY, and therefore can have trace amounts of the milk protein. (Crap. I loved mayo.)

Happy Mother's Day!

2011-05-08T10:12:00.000-04:00

To all the Mommies and GrandMa's out there,

Happy Mother's Day!!
Hope you had a great day with your kids or grandkids- human or furry. :)

Homemade 'HE' Detergent

2011-05-07T23:24:00.001-04:00

First, I want to say how much I love Dr. Bronner's Magic Soap. (I am not getting any form of reimbursement for this post, just so you know. But I wish I was! : P ) I am seriously thinking I need to buy it in the gallon jug, the only thing holding me back is the fact that I like changing the scent every time I buy more. As concentrated as this stuff is, if I bought a gallon I might be using it for the better part of a year.

.... where was I?
Oh yeah, I love it because it cleans everything. I mean it. It's also completely safe and natural. I love to clean my oven and kitchen with it- it busts up any grime stuck on the stove and wipes clean (Read: No Scrubbing. I'm okay with that!) It does fabulous work in the bathroom and on my floors, too. Got a stain on the carpet? This stuff will get ANY stain out. I dare ya' to spill something. ;) (Ex: My hubs came home from work and had a big nasty grease stain on his light grey sweatshirt, this stuff got it out in no time and it didn't discolor the actual sweatshirt. Nothing has ever gotten this kind of stain out of his clothes before.) And, remember how I said it's uber concentrated? I use a big spray bottle, and put one or two teaspoons in it and go on my way!

Now, I have found one more fabulous way to use it.... As laundry detergent! I am aware that this can be used to clean clothes as it is, or concentrated with water, but I have adapted a Felz Naptha recipe that I got from my friend, Anne. :)

First, have ready 6 cups of boiling hot water, ½ cup of Borax, ½ cup of Washing Soda (Not the same as baking soda.) and ½ cup of Dr. Bronner's Magic Soap.

Turn heat off boiling water, and mix the Borax and Washing Soda in until dissolved. This will make the water cloudy, but you'll be able to feel with your spoon if the granules have dissolved. (Use a wooden spoon) When dissolved, add the Magic Soap and stir. Cool for a few minutes, and carefully pour into an empty gallon jug. Fill the jug the to the top with cold tap water.

Now, it's ready! :) I use 1/4 cup per load. This has done a great job washing our clothes. We do have a HE washer, and I have found this to be the perfect detergent.

*Edited To Add* After about a week, this mixture totally coagulated. Maybe I didn't use enough water? I don't know. In spite of it turning to goo, I still used it. It still smelled great and did a perfect job. I know that both the Dr. Bronner's and Borax are basic, so it must've been the washing soda! I ♥ me some Dr. Bronner's! ;)

Dandelions!

2011-05-05T14:12:00.001-04:00

Many people think of dandelions as a weed, a nuisance, a blemish in their yards. They spend hours, lots of money and hazardous chemicals to remove them. Living in a sub-division, I am sure we are frowned upon for not killing the dandelions in our yard, but I refuse to spread hazardous chemicals that will limit where my dog and child may roam. (And they're going to hate us even more if I get to start my no-mow lawn.... Think: Clovers! More about that another day!)

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I have a different view about dandelions. I think of them as an herb, not a weed!! (Actually they really are an herb, Taraxacum Officinale. Read more about their awesome benefits HERE ) And, as most do not realize, they are completely edible, from root to flower.

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Dandelion greens make a great spring salad, since young dandelions are more tender and not as bitter as mature summer dandelions. The green leaves supply vital nutrients, and are have high levels of Vitamin A and C, as well as calcium and potassium. They have more iron in them than spinach! (Note: You should never consume dandelions from an area that has been chemically fertilized or been treated for weed control.)

Have you ever watched "Depresion Cooking with Clara"? This little lady is SO cute, and I love her simplistic and cheap recipes. There are many episodes, you'll be tempted to watch them all (and listen to her little stories about how her and her family survived the Great Depression).

There are many, many things that you can do with the entire plant! Here's a just a few ideas and links to recipes. (Seriously, this is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to cooking this plant!)

Roots:

Dandelion Coffee

Leaves:

Green Salads (many different types, dressing recipes included.)

Dandelion Fettuccine

Dandelion Tea

Tea (Liver Cleansing)

Flowers:

This may get you looking at these plants in a different light.

I plan on trying a few of these recipes out soon, I will post more on that later.... :)

Bringing Home the Bacon... And 'Shrooms!

2011-05-01T23:58:00.002-04:00

I had to giggle today when my hubby came home from an overtime call. All I could think was "He brought home a little more than 'the bacon' today!" as he stood in front of me, proudly holding a plastic bag full of Morel mushrooms. These mushrooms only come out in the perfect setting- the temperature, moisture and nutrition content in the ground have to be perfect for them to sprout. They are pretty rare, usually only available in April or early May. If you find them in the grocery store they are very expensive ($45/pound) and in limited quantity.

They are almost always battered and fried, and that's okay with us! (You know, since it's only 'once a year'... Right?) But first, you have to prepare them.

Normally, you will soak these spongy mushrooms over night in a salt water bath. This will help remove any dirt or creepy crawlies (remember, these mushrooms are plucked from the ground-) and also helps to tenderize them. There are 'False Morels' out there, and a simple way to tell is to look in through the bottom of the stem. If it's completely hollow (bubbles will come out when you push it in the salt water) it's a good Morel, if it's solid, it's a 'False Morel' and should not be consumed.

These are both examples of edible Morels.

After the Morels have soaked for about 8 hours (or overnight), they are ready to be drained, battered and fried. Here's my milk free batter recipe below:

First, cut the morels in half lengthwise to double check that the stems are clean, and then in half width-wise.

Wash:

Take a 1/2 cup Soy Milk (I like Earth Balance) and add 1 tsp apple cider vinegar. Set aside to curdle for about two minutes. Then, add an egg and blend well.

Batter:

1/3 cup of flour, mixed with 1 tsp. salt and a generous shaking of pepper. (So technical, I know! : P )

Have a skillet warming and ready with a few pats of butter (I used Soy margarine) to pan-fry the battered mushrooms.

You know how it goes... dip in the wash, shake in the batter, place in the pan. Flip after a few minutes, checking to make sure they are browning and not burning. They take about 5 minutes to cook. Set on a plate covered with a napkin to drain any left-over butter. Eat while hot! Hope you enjoy them!

And don't let their looks gross you out.

I did, and I missed out on eating them for a few years!

Now, I will be right there, getting my share! ;)

A Girl and her Kitchen...

2011-04-28T23:47:00.000-04:00

Many of you know I built a play kitchen for my daughter for her third birthday. Well, her birthday came and went (a little too fast!) and I have yet to post the pics of her finished kitchen. I had good intentions of doing that tonight, but my camera battery died, so my 'real' pictures will have to wait until tomorrow!

Here's a couple pics of them in the play room:

I have many things to do to spruce up this area of the house to make an ultimate play room. (For both daughter and mama! Since we share the room, I've got a few tricks up my sleeve for both her half and my half of our play room.) I will share all these ideas with you on another post. This post is strictly going to be about a girl... My girl! And her kitchen! :)

Here's kiddo's reaction to her new kitchen...

"Hmmm.... Functioning faucet knobs...."

"What?! This is MINE??"

Those are the only pictures that came out. The rest were very awful and fuzzy. Unless you like pictures of slurred faces and wrapping paper flying... It's very difficult to get a three year old to slow down and open presents... lol!

More Cupcakes

2011-04-26T13:26:00.001-04:00

Can you tell that I renewed my library book, 'Vegan Cupcakes Take Over the World'? :-P

I can't help myself! I have to make more cupcakes! I am so thankful to have found a book that is completely dairy free and tasty. All the cupcakes I have tried out of this cookbook have been incredibly decadent and rich- and this particular cupcake was no exception.

Behold: Chocolate Cupcake with Peanut Butter-creme Frosting and Chocolate Ganache.

... And they were goooood! :)

I highly recommend this cookbook, whether you are Vegan, have milk allergies (like me) or just a lover of baked goods!

Happy Easter!

2011-04-24T08:39:00.006-04:00

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Hope you all have a great day with your friends and family!

Two-For-One?

2011-04-22T20:03:00.002-04:00

Today is Earth Day!! ~and~ Good Friday!!

It was brought to my attention earlier that not all people understand what Earth Day is all about. It was suggested by someone that it was a pointless 'holiday' that was potentially distrating to more important holidays (particularly, Good Friday) I just want to step on my little soap box and defend Earth Day (as I also observe Good Friday and the teachings of our Lord.)

First, a little history on Earth Day.

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The first Earth Day was organized on April 22, 1970 by Senator Gaylord Nelson of Wisconsin. Nelson recognized the environmental discord years before he pushed for the first Earth Day to come about. It took six long years for his ideas to finally be appreciated, both by his political peers and by the general public. In 1969, he and Harvard scholar/environmental activist Dennis Hayes started the movement for a nation-wide clean up.

Both gentleman thought of a way to encourage the public to take action in fighting pollution. They set the date for Earth Day to be on Wednesday, April 22, 1970. The idea was to have a national 'walk-out' of students and workers alike, and so Earth Day began on a Wednesday simply because there was a higher percentage of workers/students present on that day versus any other. It is estimated that 20 million people participated. It has been an annual event ever since.

In 1990, Dennis Hayes took it a step further- he founded Earth Day Network, which pushed Earth day to be internationally recognized (although the United Nations refers to it as 'Mother Earth Day').

It is my humble opinion that if you do take the time to help clean up the environment today, it is not a sinful thing to do. But if you feel it is, please... wait and do your part after Holy Week is over. I can only think of it is as one more way we can respect the world our Maker has provided us with.

(This post was never intended to insult anyone. My apologies to anyone who is upset by my opnion.)

Sneak Peek!

2011-04-14T18:05:00.001-04:00

Just letting you know what I've been up to... I have to paint the fridge tonight and add to handles.
The kiddo's birthday is Saturday ... nothing like waiting until the last minute, huh? ;)

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Just in Time for Easter...

2011-04-09T23:16:00.003-04:00

I borrowed this awesome book from the local library- It's called Vegan Cupcakes Take Over the World. Since I have a milk allergy, I can't eat a whole lot (if any) baked goods that you can buy in the store. I can usually find bread, but the decadent stuff I usually have to pass up (with my head down...). That is sure to change now! ;)

In the spirit of Spring/Easter, I decided I would try the carrot cake recipe first. As I excitedly pulled the ingredients out of their hiding places, my husband jokingly reminded me that he does not 'like' cupcakes... "Yeah, yeah, yeah,", I told him, "these are for me!"

After I took some pics of my cupcakes, I gobbled one up. It was seriously the best carrot cake, maybe even cupcake, that I have ever had. And yes, I was nice and shared them with my hubs and the kiddo. (sort of...)

This little guy came a day late... he didn't get any!

I'm so glad I borrowed this book. I put it on my Amazon wish list, but I don't know if I can wait until my birthday to have it! I hope to try another recipe tomorrow, vegan pumpkin chocolate chip cupcakes. If they are as good as this recipe, I'm in trouble!

Drop Cloth Messenger Bag

2011-04-08T01:19:00.002-04:00

You may remember a post from a few weeks ago, Other Inspirations. I showed a few different ideas on how to use vintage grain sacks/linen. I have not been fortunate enough to find any grain sacks, but that didn't stop me from making a look-a-like! :)

Their's (Mothology):

Mine:

I used drop cloth material from Home Depot. I purchased a few packs of it on sale last year, I believe the 6'x9' packs were buy one at regular price, get one free. Two packs for under $10, and I am still using it!! The o-rings I used in the straps were from old curtain clip rings (free)- an idea my friend's mother gave me.

Drop cloth is very sturdy stuff, and I double stitched the bag to add a little more ruggedness. I didn't take any pictures of the process, but I basically used a simple tote pattern and added the flap and strap to it. I also added a liner which has two pockets. To dress is up a little, I pinned on a fabric flower.

I made the flower using the tutorial over at V & Co.

The bag is much bigger than I am used to. It will be a great bag to use this summer at the beach, or at the farmer's market. :)

Linking up to:

And...

A Day at the Park...

2011-04-03T00:09:00.000-04:00

Thursday, I spend a relaxing afternoon at a local park with my family.

It was nice seeing new life...

Including new flowers...

Feeling the sun...

We had fun, just walking around and discovering things.

We listened to the frogs chirping away, a sure sign that spring is going to be here any day now.

Sprouting Out

2011-03-30T20:13:00.004-04:00

"Why try to explain miracles to your kids

when you can just have them plant a garden."

~ Robert Brault

And so it begins...
I am sprouting seeds to use in my very first vegetable garden.

Wish me luck. ;)

Perfect Storm

2011-03-28T00:02:00.001-04:00

We had a really good thunderstorm the other night...

It was the kind of storm that makes you want to turn off all the lights, open all the curtains and find a good spot to sit and watch the show. (Of course, instead of sitting, I grabbed my camera and headed for the door.) I got a few really good shots, but it was difficult to get my timing down. You have to learn to be pretty quick! ;)

Lucky for me, it kept up long enough for me to take a few pics and sit down to enjoy the rest of the storm.

It was perfect.

I love storms.

Linking up to:

We Have a Winner!!

2011-03-26T07:51:00.002-04:00

I took the total number of comments to Random.org last night, and the winner for the printed canvas from Easy Canvas Prints is......

(Sorry, I had to take a pic of the screen with my phone...)

#13!!

(Did you thought 13 was an unlucky number?)

Congratulations to Sherry

from Country Wings in Phoenix!

Sherry, please email me for instructions...

Thanks to all who entered, I hope to have another giveaway soon. :)

Last Chance!

2011-03-25T21:34:00.001-04:00

Just wanted to remind everyone that the giveaway is officially over at midnight tonight! I will announce the winner tomorrow morning!
If you haven't entered yet and would like to, just click on the giveaway button on my sidebar! :)

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SMP (Save My Pantry!)

2011-03-20T11:54:00.001-04:00

** Six More Days to Enter Giveaway!!**

I'm looking into ways to overhaul my tiny little pantry. It is awful messy, making it very difficult to get a good look at my inventory. Thus, I'm buying doubles of things, coming home and realizing way waaay in the back of the pantry there is a can of whatever... (Only its been there, untouched, since we moved in.) Since I have a very small galley-style kitchen, this pantry is valuable space and I need it to be as efficient as possible. Although I am ready and willing to make some changes, I am not willing to break the bank over it- and so I am looking into only the thriftiest of ideas.

Here's an embarrassing picture of my pantry in it's current state.

(*sigh* Here goes nothing...)

See? I told you it was bad.

I am hoping to change that. I have 6 areas for storage. They consist of 4 large shelves, one half-size shelf (at the top) and the floor for storage. Since counter space is very limited in my kitchen, I store everything not in use, from toasters and coffee pots, to my electric skillet and Kitchen-Aid mixer. I also store all of my food products- from boxes and cans to bread and produce like onions and potatoes.

I am aware now that re-using things like glass jars and coffee cans can be a wonderful way to store things, and since I mostly buy things like flour and other grains by the pound from a local store, this idea will really come in handy. I have also found a product that I plan on buying to store my can foods (See pic and link below). Since I have wire shelves, they are bowing from the weight of the canned items. I may have to replace them with simple wooden board shelves. Maybe I can also get two plastic stackable bins to store my onions and potatoes, which I would place on the floor.

Can Organizer

I think I may be starting in the right direction. Since I plan on reusing containers to store food, this over haul may take a long time.

Any advice or ideas you have are totally welcomed!!

What would you do?

(P.S. I am only showing a link and pic of the Can Organizer because I think it could be a very wonderful product. I have not received any kind of compensation for this free advertisement. But it wouldn't hurt my feelings if the sent me some free product anyway. ;) lol )

A Moment of Silence, Please...

2011-03-14T23:45:00.002-04:00

I'm just shocked at all the devastation happening in Japan right now.

These poor people have gone through so much in the last few days,

and I wish there was more that I could do to help.

I have listed below a few sites that are accepting disaster relief donations. I'm just throwing these links out there, not to guilt anyone, but just as a reminder of how much these people really need help. You can even donate by text now, how easy is that?

Want to donate online? Here are some links.

UNICEF

WORLD VISION

RED CROSS

Want to donate via text on your cell phone? (Each text pledge is only $10, The donation will be charged on your next bill)

Please click here for a list of charities to chose from.

Thanks for taking the time to read this. Please pray for the survivors, that they get all the help they need.

Impromptu GIVEAWAY!

2011-03-12T00:39:00.002-05:00

Don't you just love a surprise Giveaway?? I sure do!

I would like to take a moment to tell you about Easy Canvas Prints. They offer custom prints on stretched canvas, and they look fantastic. With an easy to navigate website, you can use their canvas designer (with step by step instructions) to set up your canvas size and thickness, adjust your image size, set the image to color, black and white or sepia... you can even ask Easy Canvas Prints to touch up the photo for you. I am also very happy to say that all the work is done right here in the USA.

I have been offered a gift from Easy Canvas Prints, as well as a gift to share with you! All you have to do is go over to their site and check it out. They have a wonderful idea gallery, so make sure to check that out too. You can also fool around with their Canvas Designer, I'm sure you will find an image that you would like to have printed on canvas. The winner of the giveaway will receive a free 8"x11" canvas, printed with an image of their choosing.

RULES FOR ENTERING GIVEAWAY:

Hey, all Giveaways have some rules, and this one will be no different! ;)

1.) To be eligible for this giveaway, you must live with in the 48 states.

(sorry, to all the rest!)

2.) You do not need to be a follower of my blog to enter. Everyone has a fair chance.

(But if you like what you see here, please become a follower anyway!)

3.) Leave a comment telling me what you would do with your gift if you won for one entry.

4.) You get one more entry for posting this giveaway on your blog's sidebar or

mentioning it in a post. Please leave separate comments!

5.) You have until Friday, March 25th to enter!

That's about it! I will send the total number of comments to Random.org, and the winner with be announced on Saturday, March 26th! Good luck, people!!!

A Little Side Tracked.

2011-03-08T10:57:00.006-05:00

Yes, I know. I am smack-dab in the middle of a few projects.

But I couldn't help myself.

I had to make these as soon as I got my hands on some cookies and lolly pop sticks. I found the tutorial last night, and thought I would share:

(Share the tutorial that is.... Not the Oreo Pops!)

These are so beautiful, and they were fun and easy to make, too. Only downfall is that the candy coating for these has dairy in it, so you will all have to rely on my little taste-tester's opinion that they were "Sooooo Yummy!".

To make some for yourself, head over to How Does She? and follow the instructions. You won't be sorry!!

Other Inspirations

2011-03-06T12:42:00.001-05:00

Remember in my last post I showed you the pic that got my mind rolling? Here's more images that just confirmed how much I love this fabric choice...

Yes, I know the last two are bags. But it's only natural for a girl to like bags, right? I'm going to get to work making my new curtains now... Excuse me... ;)

(Pictures 1, 3 and 4 are all from Mothology. The second picture is from Wisteria.)

sigh.... I'm Bored.

2011-03-04T12:42:00.000-05:00

I'm bored. I can't help it. I am usually a busy body, and I have been sitting still too long. (As you can see by my lack of posts.) I get in slumps like this during the end of winter, when I have exhausted all my indoor craft ideas and have a mile long list of things to do once the weather warms up and I can be comfortable outside again.

So what do I do with myself? I drive myself nuts looking for things to do in the house. I scour the Internet for inspiration, which makes me imagine the house's decor differently. It usually starts with something innocent like, "I need a curtain for my kitchen window." And I found:

(Image)

Yes, see those cafe curtains there? I love them. They are just my style: simple, natural, rustic, neutral with a dash of red. Also, they look pretty darn good with those white cabinets, and black counter top. (Funny... I have white cabinets and want black counter tops!)

I think I can make/copy these curtains this week. I'm sure I have most if not all the materials I need. (Yay!!!) I will update soon. Unfortunately, the black counter tops will have to wait for another day... But at least now I have both something to do and something to look forward to doing!

Oh, and by the way... This got me started on a search for other materials like these curtains...

And boy did I find some fabulous things. I will show them to you tomorrow, when blogger is not acting bratty.

(I am having a hard time getting more than one pic on a post if its not from Picasa.)

It can't be....

2011-02-22T00:28:00.003-05:00

I was just thinking yesterday how it really stinks that my little girl has decided, quite suddenly, to stop all naps. That's right, no more naps. If I'm lucky, she'll just lay in her bed and sing to her 'Piggy' for an hour while I run around the house getting things tidied up and ready for the next half of the day. This new trend also comes at an inopportune time (does she know I'm trying to build her a play kitchen?) But everyday, as it has been for the last few weeks, naptime comes and goes without a wink of sleep. And, there I am, crossing my fingers that she will go to sleep for an hour or two the next day so I can get things done without feeling like she's being ignored.

Then, a thought came to me today.... It's funny how your perpective can change in an instant.

Tomorrow, I will be registering my little 'baby' in preschool. *sniff* Preschool! Starting next September, my little girl will be going to a preschool just down the road for two hours and fifteen minutes, three days a week. Now I'm feeling sad that I won't have her right here beside me, 'helping' me as she does (or doesn't!). I feel like I'm losing a little bit of her, like she's just growing up so darn fast. So, until that dreaded first day of preschool arrives, I've decided to embrace our napless naptimes with fun games and cuddle times.

I figured a great way to start Nap-less time is with a good cookie, so here 'tis, recipe included. ;)

Molasses Cookies:

1 1/4 cups shortening

1/2 cup sugar

1/2 cup brown sugar

1 egg

1/4 cup molasses

2 cups flour

2 tsp. baking soda

1/2 tsp. salt

1 1/2 tsp. cinnamon

1/2 tsp. ground ginger

1/4 tsp. ground cloves

In a mixer, cream the first five ingredients together. In a seperate bowl, combine the rest. Slowy mix the flour mixture into the creamy mixture, scrape mixing bowl as needed. When the dough is fully mixed, chill for about an hour. After the dough is chilled, preheat your oven to 375. Then round out 1" dough balls, and coat in white sugar. Cook for 10-12 minutes.

Hope you all enjoy this recipe, I've already tried a cookie, and they are pretty tasty! :)

Yikes!

2011-02-12T23:21:00.000-05:00

Has it really almost been 2 weeks since I've posted?! I'm sorry folks, I have been busy lately, and time has just flown by. I am still working on that kitchen for my daughter, the cold (meaning below zero) weather has kept me from working on it diligently. (I have all my power-tools in the garage, and even though its an insulated garage, it's still cold enough to freeze your fingers and make your teeth chatter! Not something that mixes well with saws and nail guns! lol)

I also must admit, I have been bitten by the stamping/scrap booking bug. It all started when I was invited to my first Stampin' Up party and now, I'm addicted. (Thanks, Anne...) : P I placed an order at the party, and as soon as it came in, I have been up to my elbows in card-making. I'll show you some examples later on this week.

One last thing- I can't wait for V-day to be OVER with. Why is that? I don't know, I have never liked it much... I can never get focused or inspired enough to do much about this holiday... I wouldn't mind learning to make some hard candy, but that's about all. Maybe it's because I'm not a hugely romantic kinda gal, or maybe it's because I have never been able to draw or cut a perfectly symmetrical heart. Lol! Everyone has one holiday they don't mind skipping, I suppose this is mine... ;)

All the same, I hope you all have a great Valentine's with your loved ones!

(No, really.... I do mean it!)

It's Coming Along....

2011-01-30T12:06:00.000-05:00

Whoo! I'm pooped! I stayed up until almost 2 am finishing up some work on the kitchen set. I'm only bummed to say, I got the wrong type of hinges for the oven door, and the metal dog bowl will be too big to use for the sink. Oh well, every thing has obstacles- its just how we overcome them that matters.

I used my jigsaw to cut a window out of the oven door. I thought the oven door would be sturdier if I used one solid board, rather than nailing four pieces together as originally planned. I left a little clearance for the hinges, so that gap that you see at the top will not be as noticeable when it's properly attached. I think I can use the plastic sheet from a cheap dollar store frame (Some have plastic instead of glass in their frames) for the door's 'glass' window. If not, I think some black screening will work nicely.

I sprayed the handle and the faucet 'Anodized Bronze'. It's not as
sparkly as ORB, but I really like the color.
Still need to do a lot of work! :)

While I'm out getting new hinges, I will have to get a new drill bit that cuts out big enough circles so I can 'install' the faucet. Later on today, I am going to start sewing the skirt for the sink.

I think I have come up with a better plan for the sink. Cross your fingers for me!! ;) What's great about these plans is that you can fiddle with them to make them perfect for you.

A Good Start to Things...

2011-01-28T00:33:00.001-05:00

Well, today I got started on my project! Despite having a restless two year old bouncing around the house (no nap time today!) I think I got quite a bit done. I am pleased with the results so far.

For all that guessed or commented yesterday, Dawn was right. I am building a play kitchen for my daughter! After months of drooling over Ana's site, my plan for a better play space for the kiddo is finally starting to take shape.

So far, I only have the 'shells' of the oven and sink, but the rest should come along nicely. Even though my list of things to do to complete this project seems long, most can be done in no time at all. I still have a few more odds and ends to buy to help me along the way.

Earlier today, I used my new jigsaw and cut out these simple arches on the sides of the sink/oven. It didn't take long- this plywood is pretty soft stuff.

Tonight, once the kiddo went off to bed and I had some time to tinker in the garage, I whipped out my new pneumatic nail gun and put these together. I had a few hiccups along the way (I kept losing air pressure and found out the hard way why that little roll of Teflon tape was included in my nail gun kit. Hmmmm... Wish they would have mentioned the tape in the manual. Oh well) I made sure to use wood glue (Elmer's) on all the pieces before I nailed.

So... Tomorrow, I will work on aprons, back-splashes and the backing of both pieces. Maybe, if the kiddo decides to go down for a nap I can even build the oven door or start priming everything!! *crosses fingers*

♥ Teaser Post ♥

2011-01-26T22:28:00.000-05:00

Hey there, just wanted to give you all an idea of what I will be starting on tomorrow. Here's your clues:

1.) It's my first builder project that I can use with my new air compressor and nail gun (thank you Hubby!)
~and also use my new jigsaw (thanks Mom and Dad!) ..... Seriously... Some of the best Christmas presents ever!!

2.) I got my plans from http://www.ana-white.com/ , formerly known as Knock Off Wood.

3.) I just got these materials together today:

Cute fabric from JoAnn's. Love those birds!!

Boards all cut to size thanks to Home Depot!

Faucet, hinges and drawer pull,
all to be painted rubbed bronze. :)

I still need to get a few things: a large metal dog bowl and four round cabinet knobs, maybe even a towel or two.

Can anyone guess what I'm doing? And, no... Sadly, it is not my bathroom overhaul. *sigh* ;)

Check back in, I should have an update tomorrow night!

Oh Joy, Oh Joy!

2011-01-23T16:07:00.001-05:00

Yay!! I finally got my air compressor and nail gun. I can't wait to start building things! Thanks to a certain blog.... Knock Off Wood, I have about a ba-gillion things on my list of things I would like to make.

Special thanks to Shanty 2 Chic's Whitney for helping me decide on which type of air compressor to get.

Family Traditions

2011-01-20T17:08:00.001-05:00

Recently, my daughter received a package from my Grammy. Inside the package, she found a completely hand-made Raggedy-Ann doll. Immediately, kiddo plucked the doll from it's box, and ran over to her play table to 'feed her'.

Kiddo's is on the left, mine on the right.

While kiddo whipped up a plastic meal for her new red-headed friend, I snuck down stairs and found a piece of my own childhood.

Grammy always started new traditions in our family. She is one of the kindest people you will ever meet, always thinking of what she can do to help someone else, always doing the fair thing. Without meaning to, she created a hand-made legacy. For every child and grandchild, she hand crocheted a full size afghan. We all have one, and we use them regularly. If you were to visit each of our homes, you would see our afghans on the end of beds, tucked away near the couch for a cuddly movie night... or over our laps as we type away on our blogs... :)
Ok, so that last one was just me.

Gram hand-stitched an 'I Love You' message on each Doll's chest.

Grammy also made all us grandchildren Raggedy Ann/ Raggedy Andy dolls. I'm so glad my daughter plays with hers (and now mine, too). Just yesterday, she had a picnic with the both of them.... on her afghan.

Thank you, Grammy. Your work is amazing.

We all love you so much!

Oatmeal Carrot Cookies

2011-01-17T10:59:00.000-05:00

Whaaaa???? Yep, Carrot cookies. They are tasty, too. Not in the same way carrot cake is tasty, but pretty close. And best of all, this recipe makes like a ba-gillion cookies... Which won't help those who made those "Lose ten pounds" kind of resolutions, but is good for soemone like me- the "I will just have one more" kinda cookie eater. :)

Here's the secret recipe:
(adapted from the little recipe book that came with my Kitchen-Aid mixer)

3/4 c butter or margarine (I used Earth Balance Vegan butter, still trying to go completely dairy-free)
3/4 c brown sugar
3/4 c granulated sugar (I used some white, some turbinado sugar)
1 egg
1 c shredded carrots
1/4 c water
2 c rolled oats
2 c flour (I used some unbleached flour and some whole wheat flour)
1 tsp. baking soda
½ tsp. salt.
I also added:
1 tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp ground clove
¼ tsp ground nutmeg

Blend butter, sugars and egg in mixer bowl. Mix very well, about 1 minute. Add shredded carrots and water; mix for 15-30 seconds. Stop and scrape bowl, then add oats, flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix on medium speed for about 15-30 seconds, or until fully mixed.

Drop by rounded teaspoonfuls on greased baking sheets, 2" apart.
Now the actual recipe directs you to bake for 8-10 minutes at 375º, but for me, this just didn't cook the middle of the cookie enough and the outside of the cookie was getting crunchy and brown. I had better luck dropping the temp down to 350º, and increasing the baking time to 15 minutes. This may be something you will have to tweak a little, but its not hard to figure out- and its really hard to ruin/overbake these cookies. :)

This recipe makes 48 lovely cookies. And they go great with tea or coffee... believe me, I know!

New Girl in Blogland!

2011-01-14T12:45:00.000-05:00

I would like to take a minute of your time to introduce you to a very good friend of mine. She is one of my oldest friends, from my hometown in Vermont.

Please meet Jessie, from Mommy's Middle Ground.

Although her blog is still very new, you will enjoy posts about her day to day as she cooks up a storm with her magical crockpot, gives great money saving advice and tips, shares her experiences about being a wife and new mama.

Jessie is a very creative and passionate person who wears her heart on her sleeve. She does amazing things with a garden, be it with veggies or flowers, and is a whiz on a sewing machine. Jessie is an inspiring go-getter kind of gal, and I know you will love visiting her blog.

To visit her and welcome her to 'Blogland', just click on her picture, or the link provided above. :)

Drop Cloth Table Runner

2011-01-13T12:51:00.002-05:00

While searching for jeans to finish my Denim Apron, I stumble across a long scrap/strip of canvas drop cloth. I decided to sew together a cute little table runner, similar to the one I saw at 'Under the Table and Dreaming'.

This was just a fast and simple project, I think it only took me about 20 minutes.

It's almost time to redo/revamp our bedroom, its feeling dark and cluttered to me lately. I think this cute little runner will have to stay, though. ;)

Hopefully that idea will come into action soon!

Scrap Denim Apron

2011-01-10T12:49:00.001-05:00

I was looking around the house for things to create, things to reuse and new sewing projects. I came across an old pair of jeans. You know, the kind that sit in a pile waiting to be used. The kind of jeans resolutions are made about... "I will fit into these!". Needless to say, they have been in the scrap/donate pile for a LONG time, and it was time to do something about it.

So I cut that old pair of jeans into pieces. ;) Not out of frustration, but to make an apron!

I cut the legs into long strips, sewed them together to make the skirt of the apron. To finish off the bottom, I sewed two of the scrap strips together and made a ruffle, then attached it to the skirt. For the scrappy looking edges, I trimmed them to be even, and then did a zig-zag stitch along the entire edge. I added a strip that was double the width of all the other strips, folded it over the top edge, and tucked the ends of brown satin ribbon in before sewing it all together. This made the ties for the apron.

When the skirt of the apron was done, I tried it on. It seems to be a little heavy. I think I am going to snatch another old pair of jeans that are about the same color and try to make a bib for the apron.

I think it would look cute if I also salvaged the back pockets and sewed them on the front of the apron.

What do you think?

I hope to finish this up soon. I might get my hands on some new power tools for a few up coming projects, and this will make the perfect 'shop' apron! ;)

Please Look!

2011-01-07T14:21:00.000-05:00

NEW INFORMATION SITE FOUND!

PLEASE FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS

TO HELP KEEP YOU AND YOUR FRIENDS/FAMILY SAFE!!

There's a site called SPOKEO.COM that's a new online USA phone book w/personal information: everything from pics you've posted on FB or web, your approx credit score, home value, income, age, even the number of children you have. Most even come with a free picture of what your home looks like.

Remove yourself by searching your name, copy the URL of your page, then go to the bottom right corner of the page and click the Privacy button to remove yourself.

Please copy this info and repost on your blogs, to spread the word and help protect our privacy!

Happy New Years!

2010-12-31T11:48:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year to everyone in Blogland!

Hope everyone enjoyed themselves as 2010 comes to a close!

I wish everyone peace, good health and happiness in 2011!

Merry Christmas to All!!

2010-12-24T14:48:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to extend warm Holiday Greetings to everyone!

I wont be back until after the Holidays are over,

but I hope to have some new projects to share with you then! ;)

Winner, Winner!!

2010-12-19T23:05:00.001-05:00

Sorry I'm posting this and HOUR late. My only excuse is that I went to a cookie exchange tonight, and my little one snuck a few extra cookies.... She's finally sleeping!! : P 'Tis the season!

Okay, okay... Enough of the small talk!

I enter the total number of comments (42) to Random.org.

It pulled the number 6.

(Crap job pic, I know...)

Congratulations, Sarah M!

Email me your shipping information,

and I will be sure to get this in the mail right away!

♥ Thanks again to all who entered. I wish I had something to give all of you! ♥

Giveaway Reminder

2010-12-19T16:30:00.000-05:00

I will be closing the giveaway at 10 EST, and annoncing the winner shortly after that!! Good luck everyone!

Just wanted to remind everyone that the giveaway ends

on Sunday the 19th! If you haven't already entered, please visit this link:

Snow Day Giveaway!

Christmas Tassel

2010-12-12T09:56:00.002-05:00

I finally saw a great and simple tutorial on how to make one of big, huge glorious tassels... All thanks to Patti from Pandora's Box.

Since Patti gave such good instructions, I will leave you only with a these pictures of my new tassel and a link to her blog.

Thanks again, Patti! For all those interested, please visit Pandora's Box HERE for the Tassel Tutorial.

** Don't forget to enter my SNOW DAY GIVEAWAY! **

Miniature Christmas Tree

2010-12-10T14:25:00.002-05:00

**Don't Forget to Enter the SNOW DAY GIVEAWAY!!**

About a week ago, I got a good portion of free Christmas tree branches from Lowe's. (If you didn't know already, they cut the bottom few branches off of the trees they sell, and throw them in a huge bin. You are welcome to go and pick out any of these branches to take home- free of charge!) I had originally thought I would make a wreath out of these clippings, HUGE mistake. After getting poked a few hundred times from the pine needles, and having a dog and a toddler run across my 'work station' (aka kitchen floor), I gave up.

But while cleaning up, I had a better idea... I decided to use the clippings and make a miniature tree. I already had everything I needed, so I got busy!

I used a floral foam cone for the base. I needed more height for the planter I wanted to use, plus I needed to stabilize the whole arrangement, so I grabbed the first thing I could thing of... a can of veggies from the pantry. I 'smushed' the cone down and it stuck around the rim of the can. It worked perfectly.

Then, I just added the branches to the 'tree'. I just shoved them in one at a time into the foam, using 4-5 inch pieces and adding them at an angle.

Once I got 2/3rds of the way up, I used 3-4 inch pieces, and stuck them in the foam at more of an upward angle. Then, I just added a few small glass ornaments, and called it a night!

This looks perfect in my guest bathroom!

Linking up to:

Click Here

A Snow Day Giveaway!

2010-12-07T15:19:00.004-05:00

** Giveaway Closed ** Congrats to Sarah M! Email me!
We've gotten about 8 inches of snow, and it's still coming down strong! That being said, I had plenty of time to sit in my new comfy snow-flake jammies, sip some hot coffee, and make this new bag...

I'm hoping I'm right in believing that purples will be one of the new 'hot' colors for 2011. Either way, I saw this tweed fabric at my fabric shop and knew it would be perfect for my next bag. So I made two, one for me, and one for you!

I found a really cute fabric for the lining. It has the same purples through it.

I had enough left over to make a flower embellishment. I added some glass beads to the center, just for a little sparkle.

Typical Giveaway... You know the rules!
Separate comments for each applicable entry, please!

1.) Leave a comment for one chance.

2.) Tell me if you are a follower for a second chance.

3.) Mention it on your own blog for a third chance.

I will pick a winner via Random.org on Sunday the 19th.

Happy snow day, indeed! :)

Snow and Season's Greetings

2010-12-06T20:55:00.000-05:00

I just love snow in December....

Everytime I walk by a window and see a snowy scene, my heart smiles.

Easy Gift Tags

2010-12-05T13:51:00.002-05:00

Here's an idea for some great gift tags. They're cheap, easy and simple. All you need is a letter wax stamp, wax for sealing letters, and white tags. I got the stamp and wax years ago at the Card and Parry Outlet, but I've also seen it sold at Hobby Lobby and Joann Fabrics. I think I paid around $10 for the set, and I have used it a lot. The simple white tags were about $5 (for a box of 50), I found them at Office Max. I like them because they're pre-strung, and are made of a nice smooth cardstock.

I just put one monogrammed stamp right in the middle of the tag. I plan on using red ink on the back to write who the gift is for. Sometimes, simple is pretty, right?

Mama's Got a Brand-New Bag

2010-11-27T20:29:00.001-05:00

And.... I made it myself! (Yay for me!)

I had found this super cute blog, Ruffles and Stuff. I'm sure you have all heard of it too, but I found it just a little too late. *Sniff* The girl (Disney) that created Ruffles and Stuff has hung up her blogging hat, but lucky for me, she has decided to keep her blog open to share all the wonderful goodies and tutorials she has created in the past. It was there that I found a bag, fell in love, and ran to my stash for the fabric to make it.

I used a really simple and cute polka dot print for the inner lining....

I put some scrap polka dot with a few pieces of brown satin ribbon to good use-

they became a cute flower embellishment.

I really think this is a great size bag for normal every-day, it has plenty of room for your essentials. I really can't wait to make a few more- I think they would make great gifts!

Linkin up to:

Good-Bye, Dear Friend...

2010-11-17T23:58:00.003-05:00

It's been a bit of a sad week for me... On Monday, our black lab Cash, was put to sleep. It was a hard decision, but with the help of our veterinarian, we decided it would be the best for everyone. This had been an on-going problem for a year or more, and we felt we had exhausted every possible option.

The last few months, we were noticing Cash was having more 'bad' days than 'good'. He was getting up there in age, and although his body was still strong, his mind was slipping away. He kept getting confused, barking while he was sleeping, pacing around all night, getting scared at the slightest thing. Cash sometimes would do bad things when he was not himself- mostly, he dug. He dug everywhere- inside and out- and damaged a lot of things. We tried to ignore this as long as we could. Cash started to get nippy when he got scared, and when you have a toddler that is unaware of these problems, it can worry you a great deal. Not only where we nervous about when he might nip someone, but it became obvious his anxiety/senility was robbing his quality of life.

Cash 'picked' me to be his adoptive parent April 2006, and I feel fortunate to have had the few years I did with him. Cash was wonderful to our little girl- he would let her hug him, and climb on top of him, whisper secrets in his ear. He really was a gentle soul, a very good friend.... He will be missed by all of us.

Mama loves you, buddy.....

Mmmm... Cookies...

2010-11-13T12:59:00.000-05:00

Oh yes... The New Year's Resolutions are already out the window!! (Well, half-way out, at least.) I just couldn't help myself- I barely made any Christmas cookies this year, and my sweet tooth got the better of me. Luckily, I made enough to share... Sorry, hubby... If I'm going down, I'm taking you with me! ;)

This is truly the best recipe for chocolate chip cookies. They have the perfect salty/sweet combo going on. I switch between huge cookies and chocolate chunks and normal cookies with a ton of mini chips. Sometiems, I also add Reese's chips or M&m's. I got this recipe somewhere on line, a few years ago. One year, I messed it up and added two boxes of pudding. The result? Well, let's just say I get requests for these cookies a lot!) And, for those who think I'm crazy for adding pudding mix to cookie dough, try it. For those who know about this fabulous recipe already- well, I bet you're smiling.....

Here's the low down:

~ In a bowl, sift 2 1/4 cups flour, 1 tsp. baking soda, 1 tsp. salt. Set aside.

~ Using a mixer, cream 2 sticks of butter. Add 3/4 cup packed brown sugar, 1/4 cup white sugar, 2 eggs, 1 tsp. vanilla and 2 packets of dry instant vanilla pudding (3 oz. boxes).

~ Slowly add the flour mixture to the butter mixture. When completely mixed, add your chocolate chips. Chill for about 20 min. Meanwhile, heat your oven to 350. Cut parchment paper to fit your cookie sheets.

~ I use a cookie scooper to shape. (I found a good one at Walmart, but I already bought one from Bed, Bath and Beyond) Place on sheets and bake about 12 min. The great thing about this recipe is that it hard to over bake these cookies!

Now get a cup of coffee and enjoy!

A New Idea Board

2010-11-10T16:06:00.002-05:00

What ever it is you want to call them- Idea Boards, Message Boards, Inspiration Boards... I decided I needed one, and needed it soon for my sewing area. I wanted a place where I could hang up a picture for inspiration, patterns/directions, scraps of fabric and so forth right in front of me while sitting at my sewing desk. I thought about it and decided I should really have a cork-type board with push pins because magnets might not hold heavier fabric up for me. I hadn't really persued this 'Idea Board' project until I stumbled upon a pretty picture frame in our nearby Goodwill.

It was perfect. Good size, light weight, empty- with just the right amount of clearance to slip some cork board into. I turned it over, expecting to find an outrageous price, as most picture frames and mirrors at our GW are WAY overpriced. But instead I found:

YAY! I can handle $3!! I honestly thought they would have asked around $20, because that's what crappier frames were going for. I went to the register to pay for it, and turns out all yellow tags were marked 75% off that day, so I only paid a whopping 80¢ for it! *Happy Dance*

I took it home, wiped it down, and sprayed it white. Sorry, no photos of this process! I took some left over cork board out of my stash, covered it with a piece of white flour cloth and inserted it into the frame. Then, I just hung it up! In about 30 minutes, I made a very cheap, very cute Idea Board.

Now, I just have to make some cute thumb-tacks for it!

Linking up to:

I've Been Tagged!

2010-11-05T16:30:00.000-04:00

My father, from The Barn Board, was recently tagged by Living the Simple Life to compose a list of things that he would like to learn to do- or just do better. Dad, in return has tagged several people to make their own lists to share. I was tagged! ;)

Here's my big bad list:

1.) Home repair/ Carpentry/ Construction type skills: I have an understanding in home repairs, and thank goodness for that! When little things break or are in need of repair around the house, I am usually capable of fixing these things. That being said- our shower had a leak and created a small disaster area in the finished portion of the basement. I am going to teach myself not only how to repair the leak, but also the replace the damaged drywall in the basement. If I can pull this off, I am sure to save hundreds of dollars in labor fees from my plumber/contractor.

2.) Gardening: You know the saying "I'm sick and tired of feeling sick and tired"? Yes, well... I am sick and tired... Of buying crappy produce from the store and then watching it go bad in a day or two. I plan on planting my first large vegetable garden next spring, and reaping the benefits of having my own organic, pesticide free vegetables.

3.) Diet: It's hard, but I am learning to go dairy/milk free. Turns out, I have a bad reaction to whey and casein. I have started calling my self the meat-eating vegan (this is not to insult vegans), because I have to buy all vegan 'shelf' products to avoid any trouble. I found out the hard way a lot of products you buy in the store have some form or another of milk in them. I'm learning along the way, and it has not been that easy (especially when your kiddo has a huge Halloween bowl of candy- most of which is 'milk' chocolate!)

4.) Sewing: Ok, so this is something I already know how to do, I just want to do it better. I want to learn how to sew clothes and better quilts. This is something that just takes a teensy bit of courage, and little patience and a lot of practice.

5.) Supplemental Income: I would love to open my own Etsy shop or make enough crafts/home decor items etc. to sell at a bazaar. This isn't something I want to get rich from. This is just something that I believe could provide a little 'change in our pockets' (as my grandfather would say) for the things we don't always splurge on. Besides, it would make me feel like I am doing that much more for my family. ;) I always have so much fun crafting and creating, why not do it for a living?

Hope you all think about your lists. What would you put on them?

Pumpkin Cookies!

2010-11-04T16:23:00.001-04:00

I found a really good milk/dairy free pumpkin cookie recipe! Thought I would share it with everyone. I don't remember which magazine I pulled this recipe from- it was over a year ago (I'm just now trying the recipe!).

Ingredients:
1 cup white sugar
1 egg
1 cup shortening
1 tsp. Vanilla extract
2 cups flour
2 Tb. cinnamon
1 tsp. of each: baking soda, baking powder, salt
a dash of each: ground cloves, nutmeg
1 cup of canned pumpkin
Frosting (1 cup of powdered sugar mixed with 1T of water)

1.) Preheat oven to 350ºf. Line cookies sheets with parchment paper.
2.) In a medium bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, salt, nutmeg and clove.
3.) Using a mixer (in another bowl), combine shortening, egg, sugar and extract.
4.) Slowly add flour mixture, ½ a cup at a time. When fully incorporated, stir in pumpkin.
5.) Drop small balls of dough (it is very moist- I used to spoons to manipulate it into a ball) on the prepared sheets. Bake for 12 minutes.
6.) When cooled, mix your frosting and drizzle immediately over cookies.

These are really simple to make, and they are so tasty. They are a very moist and airy cookie, so good to nibble on with a cup of coffee!

Messenger Bag

2010-11-01T11:36:00.002-04:00

Hey everyone- sorry it's been so long... I have missed being in 'Blogland'! I have been super busy around here- potty training has been a success! Unfortunately, during the process of becoming a 'Big Girl', my two year old has also decided to skip any and all naps, leaving me with little crafting time. Good thing I put my sewing desk down in the play room!

Looking for a new sewing project, I turned to our Goodwill giveaway pile, and rescued one of Hubby's old shirts.

Being a ditz, I accidentally deleted all the photos that I took along the way to putting this bag together. I'm on the hunt for another cool shirt to make a second bag, so when I sew another one I'll be sure to KEEP the pics and create a simple tutorial.

I cut up and pieced bag together my husbands old military style shirt to make the bag, ruffle and sling. I used a scrap piece of fabric for the liner, and used some left-over scrap from the shirt to make the inner pocket. (just big enough to hold my phone, a pen and some keys) When I do this again, I will make a few more deeper pockets, maybe one hidden pocket with a zipper. *crosses fingers* I have to try out that new zipper foot. ;)

I will be back on soon to show you the little touches of Autumn I've added all around the house! I see everyone else has done the same- I love fall!

Solder Charm Pendant

2010-10-30T16:40:00.000-04:00

*First* If you haven't already- check out my Mercury-ish Glass Giveaway, and enter to win! A winner will be announced on the 28th!

OK,.. So this was my first attempt at making a Solder Charm. So if you're laughing at the finished product.... Just remember, it's my first, I didn't hurt myself (or the dogs... the baby was in bed!), and I didn't burn the house down. (OK, but I did create a huge mess... I'm stalling by writing this post... I know I have to clean it up before I go to bed, but I really don't want to!!)

(Thank you, thank you, thank you, Graphics Fairy!! I just love your site!)

So.... I know I need a few pointers... I know I made a few mistakes. I am one of those people that learns by doing, learns by making mistakes. I'm hoping the next one will be perfect (and smaller! I need a glass cutter!).

I googled 'solder charms/ solder pendants' and got a ba-gillion results. After skimming 5-10 tutorials and whatnot, I set off to the store to get my materials. And in my 'Crafty Mama' style, I forgot my stinkin' list and came back with half of the stuff I needed to pull this project off. So after a week or so, I finally got back to the store, list in hand, and bought the rest of the materials! I promise, as soon as I get the next one right and I feel like I have the 'hang of it', I will get my hubs to take a few pictures while I'm making one so I can get a tutorial together for those eager to try.

(Do I dare show you the aftermath?? I suppose it could be worse.... At least the sink stayed clean!)

Yikes!

Safety Pin Bracelet

2010-10-18T11:29:00.002-04:00

I have been doing some searching online for crafts that I could make up and give away as gifts. I honestly don't remember which site I found this idea off of, but there are tons of examples and tutorials out there- This is just one more. ;)

Here's what you need:

Safety Pins- I got mine at the dollar store, but when I make another, I will not use these again. It's worth the extra buck to get better ones that look and work better for this craft.
Glass Beads- I got mine at Walmart. They didn't have a huge selection, but these were pretty and only cost $2.
Stretch Cord- Again, found at Walmart. I think it was just under $3, and I have tons and tons left-over! I picked the clear for obvious reasons, but they also had a metallic version and a white cord.

This is crazy easy. All you have to do is open the safety pin and fill up the pin side with beads. Close the pin back up. Cut two pieces of stretchy cord twice the diameter of your wrist. Make a bunch of these pins, and when you have a little pile going on, string them with the beads all facing the same direction, but the pins stacked in opposite directions. (String your cord through the bottom loop on one pin, and through the top enclosure part on the next.)

I thought it would be easier to string one side on at a time, but after trying that I realized it was much easier to string both sides at the same time. (Of course, I didn't get a picture of this!) After you have both sides if the bracelet strung, tie a double knot to keep everything in place. Don't worry if the knot is a little bulky, the safety pins will slip over the knots, covering them.

I really wished I had bought the safety pins at Walmart. They were shinier and all the same size (Dollar Tree's were assorted- it took forever to sort the sizes apart!)

I still think it came out pretty nice, I cant wait to get some other beads to make a few more!

Linking Up:

Dieters, Avert Your Eyes!

2010-10-13T12:59:00.000-04:00

In celebration of the 'little rodent' who did not see his shadow today, I made some yummy sugar cookies! Ok ok... So it had nothing to do with Punxsutawney Phil- my husband kept asking for them and I totally gave in! How could I resist? These are so good! (And totally worth the extra hour working out!) See the recipe below....

Now, before you ask..... These are not for anyone who feels guilty about eating an extra tic-tac, or one who opts for no dressing on your salad because you are out of the fat free kind... In fact, it's these kind of treats that are so awfully good, when I was a dental assistant I would have thought of them as 'Job Security'. But I must go on and share the recipe with you... "Misery likes company" as they say, and well, I have already eaten three of these cookies! (Hope you enjoy them, too!)

Cookies:
1 c. softened butter
1 c. sugar
1 egg
2 tsp. vanilla extract
2 c. flour
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. cream of tartar
1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg

Cream the butter, sugar, egg and vanilla until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, mix all dry ingredients. Slowly add dry mixture to the butter mixture. Lay out a large piece of cling wrap on your work surface. When dough is completely mixed, shape in a log and place on cling wrap. Wrap up dough tightly, and shape a little more- chill in refrigerator for a few hours.
Cut dough log into 1/2" coins, bake on parchment lined sheet in a preheated 350 oven- about 10-12 min. Cool before frosting.

Frosting:
1/3 c. butter, softened
1/4 cup cream (I was out so I used about 1/4 of Eagle brand condensed milk)
1 tsp. vanilla
1/4 tsp. salt
4 c powdered sugar
low-fat milk, if necessary
(I also added about 1/2 tsp of almond extract- just because I love the flavor so much!)

Cream butter for about 1 minute. Add cream (condensed milk), salt, vanilla (and almond extract) and 1 cup of powdered sugar. Mix well, stopping to scrape the sides of the bowl. Gradually add 3 more cups of powdered sugar, blending well for about 2 minutes. If you think your frosting is too thick, you can add some low fat milk, one teaspoon at a time, until you like the consistency.

And there you have it! We will try to make these last another day or two, but since the snow is picking up again and we are staying inside the house- all bets are off!

Simple Fall Tassels

2010-10-03T21:11:00.003-04:00

I made a few very simple, basic tassels today while the kiddo was sleeping. I was trying a few different materials, and being that these are my first tassels, they are not the grandiose ones seen on super-blogs such as Nesting Place. However- I think they are cute, and they sure were easy to make!

I wanted to use natural materials because the color fits right in with my fall decor right now. Besides, I am a sucker for raffia, jute, twigs, grapevine, etc...

The first one:

Made of jute twine, the neck of the tassel's wrapped in green homespun yarn.

I hot-glued an acorn top on the front.

And the second:

This one is made of raffia, the neck tied with jute, and then I hot-glued a few acorns on the front.

I think these would look cute hanging off a gift bag, too.

I will try to make a few more of these soon. If anyone is interested in a 'How-To', just let me know! ;)

Linking up to:

Happy 50th, Mom!

2010-10-01T16:18:00.001-04:00

Today is my mother's 50th birthday!!! I know she's out celebrating and having a good time, it's too bad we live so far away and can't help her blow out all those birthday candles!!

hee hee! *wink* (I'm a brat, huh?)

I did mail her a goodie bag of birthday prizes, as well as another homemade card. This one I had fun making. I had fun trying out different stitches and colors of thread on this card. All I did was stitch a layer of scrap-booking paper with my sewing machine. Easy peasy. ;) I love the colors on this card, and I topped it off with a really cute little 3D flower sticker (found at Walmart).

Happy Birthday to you, Mom! Hope you had a good one, we love you!

Birthday Card

2010-09-23T09:23:00.001-04:00

When time allows, I enjoy making my own cards to give to people. I just happened to have enough time yesterday to make one for Hubby's Aunt, so I grabbed some paper supplies from my stash and headed to the nearest table.

Remember the old paper-back cookbook I ripped up to make last year's Christmas Wreath? I still had a lot left of that book, and lo-and-behold, the cake section of the cookbook hadn't been sacrificed for my wreath! I tore out the page that had a 'Birthday Cake' recipe on it to use on the card. I layered brown paper, paper lace and this recipe (which I glued to a piece of cardstock, and then to a piece of cardboard to lift it off the card). Before I glued on cake recipe, I distressed the edges with Tim Holtz Distress Ink. (I love that stuff!)

I really like how this turned out! I didn't make an envelope, I simply tucked it into her gift bag.

Linking up to:

Glamming Up a Shirt

2010-09-19T22:43:00.001-04:00

Well, I believe we have had our very last week of Summer. It's been fairly warm the last few weeks compared to some areas, averaging temperatures during the day seem to be around 70-73 degrees. It's a nice transition into the chilly fall weather.

I forgot to post about a tank top re-make that I had done a few weeks ago, so this post may seem a little out of season. The kiddo had a really cute Gap tank top that she had gotten a stain on. It was a doozy of a stain, and no matter what I tried, it wouldn't come out. So I did what any rational mommy blogger would do.... I covered it with flowers! ;)

Before:

Remember this post with the tutorial about polyester flowers?? I just made up three flowers (one large, two small) and covered up the stain. Instead of using a decorative button, I used a heavy duty dark brown thread and made an 'X' stitch in the center of the flower. I used hot glue to attach the flowers directly onto the shirt.

Here's the After:

(What a cheese ball!) ;)

Chair.. Part Two! (Another Picture Post)

2010-09-10T21:34:00.002-04:00

Ok.. Staple gun in hand, I tackled the rest of the upholstering, and finished this chair once and for all!

I used cardboard tack strips to the top because of the scalloped edge. The cardboard strip gives a crisp line to the upholstery, but it is more flexible and easier to use. I started from the top and worked my way down.

Then, I used these metal tack strips for the sides. These help pull the fabric really tight, and they are pretty heavy duty. I didnt' get a good pic of them, but they are a metal strip with spikes on one side. Basically, you puncture the underside of the fabric onto the spikes, and then turn it over (turning it away from the center of the chair) and nail it into place in the chair frame. This was a little tricky, but once I did one side the other went on easy-peasy.

Next, I pulled the bottom taught and stapled it to the underside of the chair. Then, using 4" screws, I secured the seat in place. To cover up all the nasty, I took a piece of black felt and stapled it all along the bottom of the chair.

Now that it's all done, I can officially cross it off my list!! It looks really good I think, and I can't wait to dress it up with a side table and a pretty pillow! But first, I must concentrate on the rest of my to do list.

And now, for the official Before and After!

I am pleased with it! Or maybe I am just happy that it's over and done with! lol...

Linking up to:

Chair... Part One (Long Picture Post)

2010-09-09T23:32:00.001-04:00

I want to tell everyone right from the beginning, I have never reupholstered a chair before. So this will be one messed up tutorial.....
No... I guess I wouldn't even call it a tutorial. ;) More like a post full of pictures with a few explanations. Oh yeah, and I forgot to take pictures of some of the stages along the way.
Let's just call it a 'Before and After' kind of post. I just hope I don't lose ya on the way to the 'After'!

Before: (Last Year...)

Then, I ripped every piece of smelly gross green velvet off this chair.

It was basically a shell: just the frame, a few pieces of

webbing and the springs in the seat remained.

Then, It got a few coats of paint. I also picked out some fabric to upholster it in.

This year, of course, I changed my mind.

I decided it's final color is going to be white, and the fabric will be drop cloth.

But this is how it the rest of the year,

as it was forgotten about in the garage!

Now, it has been repainted to a lovely white. I added some more webbing to the back of the chair for support. I also added some stuffing and foam (I used a twin size mattress topper- only $9!!) to the back of the chair and to the seat. Then, I started reupholstering, and in one night did this:

I just added the fabric to the front, pulled it taught over the top of the chair and stapled it down in the back. Then, I pulled the fabric on the sides through to the back and stapled them in place on the frame of the chair.

Just to give you an idea of what it will look like, I just plopped the seat in place for these pictures.

Darn it!! Ran out of staples! Oh well, Come back tomorrow to see the finished chair!

Time to Get Motivated!

2010-09-06T11:16:00.003-04:00

Ok! It's is definitely time! Time for me to get motivated. I feel like such a bump on a log- the heat from the summer just sucked all the creative energy right out of me. But the cold front that swept through yesterday brings promises of fall, and that makes me happy. Fall is on of my favorite seasons, full of warm rich earthy colors and comforting scents like apple and cinnamon. It also precedes my other favorite time of the year- Christmas.

So in order for me to get things done, I need the ultimate motivator. While making my to do list, I got lost in Blogland, and stumbled across this beauty at Knock-Off Wood.

(this actual peice was made from one of Ana's followers, Stephanie.

For the life of me, I cannot find a link to her blog.

If she has one, I would love to visit!)

This would be perfect for our living room. I was shocked when the hubby agreed, and then gave the go-ahead for me to build it. Before he even says it, I know the 'rules'... 'Get all other open projects finished before you start another.' So away I go, thought the garage and the house, notepad in hand making a new To-Do list. And it goes a little like this:

Finish reupholstering my Craig's List chair. (OH you know... The one from a YEAR ago?? Yessh... That same one. *hangs head*)
Sand, prime and paint bookshelves for the playroom.
Organize playroom, buy some baskets for those bookshelves.
Organize basement storage area. (It's bad... Really bad.)
Pack away all summer items and store in freshly organized basement.
Buy landscaping fabric, soil and more gravel. Fix the east-side of the house's landscaping problem once and for all!

It's a small list compared to those I've thought of in the past, but it's a doozy. All of these projects have been pushed to the side for a while now for one single reason.... I don't want to do them! *sigh*

Here it goes!! ;) I will keep you updated!

Silly Time

2010-09-04T12:07:00.002-04:00

Here's a video for all Dog Lovers out there...

I laughed so hard at this, thought everyone else might like to see it also!

Thanks, Jessie, for posting this on your FB. You made my day!

Burlap Magnet Board...

2010-09-01T20:22:00.000-04:00

After scouring the latest Ballard Designs Catalog for inspiration... (I know I'm not the only one who runs like a mad woman from the mailbox to a comfy place to sit and drool when these are delivered!) I decided I needed a new memo board for the kitchen. Just a little place to hang up to occasional note, a piece of outgoing mail, and maybe a picture or two. After deciding upon a few to try out, I googled magnet boards and went to visit Traci at Beneath My Heart. (She had already reproduced these boards and offered a terrific tutorial. Please click on her link to go directly to that post.)

After going to Lowe's and Hobby Lobby, I came home $8 poorer and made this:

Just to reiterate-- I only spent $4 for the metal board at Lowe's and $4 for a roll of black satin ribbon. The rest of the items needed (burlap and hot glue) were all things I had on hand.

I put a few homemade magnets on it....

I looked at the catalog again to compare.

The one offered in the BD catalog is $39 for a small board, $69 for a medium!! Mine is somewhere in between those two sizes and only cost $8. Not bad! :) Thanks so much for the tutorial, Traci!!

Cabinet Tops...

2010-08-30T15:22:00.000-04:00

I am lucky enough to have high ceilings in my kitchen. However, I am always at a loss as to what to put up on the tops of the upper cabinets. I always do fine with this decorating job during the fall and winter months- a string of colorful fall leaves or a few sprigs of fresh evergreen do just the trick. But for all those other months out of the year- my cabinets are bare and just plain boring!

After looking around, I have realized how much people detest the whole fake ivy thing for cabinets. I would agree that it would be a PITA to clean any grease off those leaves (lets face it- even if you only cook once a week, those things will get icky). Even though they offer a pop of vibrant color, its still expected and unoriginal. (So sorry to those who have fake ivy on your cabinet tops... These are only my opinions, and I mean no disrespect to anyone who's opinion differs!)

After looking around the house, I decided I have enough antique mason jars and milk bottles to line the tops of my cabinets. For a few pops of color, I reused some of the twine decor balls I made up last Christmas, and also set up an old family plate that has the same color red on it. (This plate came in the box of dishes I inherited from my Great Aunt, and is marked United States Army. I always kept it packed away since it didn't belong to a set, but now I can finally put it to good use!)

I'm still thinking about adding something more, may some pip berry garland? I love that stuff!! I know I can find it super cheap at the Amish flea market. ;)

I also want to make a simple burlap cafe curtain for the window over the sink, maybe I will attach a bit of fringe to it or something, we'll see...

Any suggestions out there? I'd love to hear them!!

Zucchini/Banana Bread Recipe...

2010-08-28T10:19:00.001-04:00

This is seriously the best zucchini (or banana!) bread I have ever had. My neighbor gave me the recipe and we all liked it so much, I ended up making about 4 loaves in a week.

And, *ah-hem*... Not a crumb to be found!

So here's the recipe: (2 loaves)

3 eggs
1 cup oil (I used a combo of olive and canola)
2 cups of sugar (I used a combo of white, cane juice and turbinado)
1 tsp. vanilla
1/4 cup of either buttermilk, sour cream or yogurt (I used lowfat Dannon Vanilla)
2 cups of mashed banana or grated raw zucchini
3 cups of flour
1 tsp. salt
3 tsp. cinnamon (I also added a pinch of ground clove)
1 tsp. baking soda
1/4 tsp. baking powder
1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional.)

Preheat oven at 350ºf. Mix all ingredients together, pour into greased bread loaf pans. (instead of using nuts, I sprinkled the tops of the batter in the pans with either rolled oats or flax seed. Both were great!) Bake for 60-70 min, or until toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely and slice. This bread freezes really well, just remember to slice before you freeze it! :)

Yay! One Year Anniversary!!

2010-08-26T00:02:00.001-04:00

Just wanted to let everyone it's officially my one year Blogiversary!! ;)

I have so enjoyed blogging. I have 'met' some wonderful people. My house is looking better than ever. (even the outside!) I have gotten some crazy inspiration from each and everyone of you!

Thanks for making it a great year, I look forward to the next year!!

Trash Can to Compost Bin

2010-08-23T23:45:00.002-04:00

(First, I would like to apologize for the lack of good pictures... I had them, and goofed them up... They are only thumbnail size!)

I am starting to make ready for a good vegetable garden for next year. Although I haven't started to prepare the land yet- I have decided it might be useful to start a compost bin now, and use the compost this fall and in the spring before I plant anything. After doing some extensive research (ok, so I just googled 'cheap homemade compost bin'), I decided the easiest and most effective way for me to compost was by using a trash can.

I found a square shaped trash can on wheels on sale at out local hardware store for $9. After using it for about 2 weeks now, I can tell you I think I would have been better off to get a round trash can- one I can roll on the ground instead of having to turn it with a garden hoe. But it is useful, and now that I'm filling it up, I may have to get a second anyway. (In which case, I will try the barrel shaped trash can)

All you have to do, is drill a bunch of air holes in all the sides to properly ventilate your compost. Also, don't forget to drill a few drain holes in the bottom. Then, just layer in your 'dry' compost (newspaper, napkins, grass clippings, etc..) with your 'wet' compost (veggie scraps, fruit peels, coffee grinds, etc...)

After about two weeks of adding more and more, and turning it at least every other day, I can say my hard work is starting to pay off. I now have very smelly dirt inside of a very cheap trash can! ;) Pretty soon I will be able to mix it into what will become the garden beds...

Ok! All done!

2010-08-17T10:06:00.000-04:00

Sorry it took so long! ;) Not only did the typical procrastination set in, but the weather wasn't quite right for painting either. (Can we say hot and humid??) Anyhow, the desk is done. It's all set up. All I need is some 'stuff' around it. I would like to make a burlap covered cork-board to hang on the wall above the desk, place a lamp on one side, and I might put some shelves up to have more supplies and 'pretties' nearby.

I also painted the birdcages I bought- I will show those off soon. I am still in the process of decorating them.

Here's what the desk is looking like so far- Keep in mind, the 'layering' hasn't been done yet, so this space looks a little boring! ;)

Well, there it is! :) Cant wait to dress it up a little!

2010-08-15T00:59:00.000-04:00

Stay tuned...

Desk is FINALLY finished, and will be set up tomorrow morning. :)

Can't wait to start sewing again... I'm behind on so many projects!!

Onto The Desk...

2010-08-09T23:30:00.000-04:00

After a morning of checking the Weather Channel updates and hoping for clear skies, I was able to sneak outside during naptime and sand, prime and paint my desk. I tried Krylon primer, which I am now a huge fan of because it really does dry in ten minutes like the can says it will! Then, I added a good thick coat of Rustoleum white enamel spray.

Here's how she's looking so far...

I really like this white enamel paint. It's cheap, super thick, and really glossy (so I know it will clean up very easily). It's so super smooth, too. I think the reflection of the enamel brings out a lot of detail that might've been overlooked had I used a satin finish paint. I am so pleased with it, I have two Craig'sList bookshelves waiting to be spruced up for the playroom that may get a coat or two of it!

(look at those legs!)

The only drawback this paint has is that it has is it takes forever to dry. It stays tacky for a good 24 hours. And I am not all that patient. *Sigh* And I think I should apply one more coat.

Back at it again tomorrow!

A Day in the Life...

Irish Hand Pies

A Visitor

Sign for Kiddo's Room

... ♥ ...

The Last Bit of Summer

Winner!

Giveaway Ends Soon!

It's the little things...

If it Ain't Broke...

Pinterest: Wreaths

Giveaway!!!

Tomato/Carrot/Pasta Soup

Skunk'd.....

Goodies From Afar...

New things....

Wow, Time Flew By!

Thanks Tammy!

Happy Independence Day!

Good stuff....

Dairy Free? I thought so.

Berries

Homemade Vitamin C Serum

A Little Motivation, Please...

DIY Dishwasher Detergent

That Brat We Call Blogger...

Ahh.. No Mow Lawns....

Garage Sale Goody!!

Flea and Tick Prevention for Dogs (Pt.2)

Flea and Tick Prevention for Dogs (Pt.1)

Dairy-Free Salad

Happy Mother's Day!

Homemade 'HE' Detergent

Dandelions!

Bringing Home the Bacon... And 'Shrooms!

A Girl and her Kitchen...

More Cupcakes

Happy Easter!

Two-For-One?

Sneak Peek!

Just in Time for Easter...

Drop Cloth Messenger Bag

A Day at the Park...

Sprouting Out

Perfect Storm

We Have a Winner!!

Last Chance!

SMP (Save My Pantry!)

A Moment of Silence, Please...

Impromptu GIVEAWAY!

A Little Side Tracked.

Other Inspirations

*sigh*.... I'm Bored.

It can't be....

Yikes!

It's Coming Along....

A Good Start to Things...

♥ Teaser Post ♥

Oh Joy, Oh Joy!

Family Traditions

Oatmeal Carrot Cookies

New Girl in Blogland!

Drop Cloth Table Runner

Scrap Denim Apron

Please Look!

Happy New Years!

Merry Christmas to All!!

Winner, Winner!!

Giveaway Reminder

Christmas Tassel

Miniature Christmas Tree

A Snow Day Giveaway!

Snow and Season's Greetings

Easy Gift Tags

Mama's Got a Brand-New Bag

Good-Bye, Dear Friend...

Mmmm... Cookies...

A New Idea Board

I've Been Tagged!

Pumpkin Cookies!

sigh.... I'm Bored.