A Place that Makes Me Smile

2009-09-03T06:49:00.000-07:00

This site has moved!!!
Come on over to somewhat simple for something bigger and better!
I won't be updating this one, so if you stay here you will miss out!

See you there!

Mod Podge Photo Frame

2009-07-20T11:44:00.001-07:00

My sister's boyfriend had a birthday last week, and she wanted to get him something special without spending a lot of money. I have done this idea several times and thought it would be something cute for her to make for him- it is personal and can make her look all crafty and talented!

Supplies needed:

5x7 wood frame- flat wood, no grooves or fancy corners.
15- 20 pictures- copy and paste them in a word document to resize them to fit the width and height of your frame, then just print them off your computer.
Mod Podge
Sponge brush
Scissors

Directions:
Brush a thin coat of Mod Podge onto wood and stick the pictures on top of Mod Podge.

Once your pictures are in place, cover them with another coat of Mod Podge.

Let it dry completely and then you're done!!!

School Days File Box

2009-07-20T11:33:00.000-07:00

School is starting soon, and that means all those cute papers, projects and awards you little ones bring home can now have a place to stay without getting crumpled or spilled on by tomorrows bowl of cereal!

Up until yesterday, all of Ethan' s stuff was at least stashed in an expanding file folder, but then I saw Becca's idea, and I was sold!

I made one box for each of my kids- each box has a file folder for each grade. These boxes are durable and can stack on top of each other to save space. And they are super cute- I AM IN LOVE...

Freaky Friday!!!

2009-07-17T07:23:00.001-07:00

Freaky Friday is a chance for us to meet other fantastic, creative people and become inspired!We switch blogs for the day and introduce ourselves to each others audience! It's a great way to link creative communities! If you would like to be featured on an up coming "Freaky Friday" please email me at stephd757@yahoo.com

Let's meet today's guest...

Greetings creative minds, friends and future friends!!! I'm Becca, the Sister in law to the fabulous Stephanie !!!

We've been friends for over 15 years and happen to fall head over heals in love with brothers and got hitched just two weeks apart!! How cool is that!!! Secretly we hatched this perfect plan from the beginning... we had to come up with a way to spend Holidays together for the rest of our lives We not only share a last name but also a love to create and inspire!

Come check me out at Blue Cricket Design.

It's my little corner in Cyber Space where I share all my latest creations! My inner Martha Stewart, Julia Childs and Nate Burkus come out! My nights usually consist of me lying awake for hours with endless ideas running through my head. Cleverly enough it results in my posts on How To's, My creations in the kitchen, Decorating tips, Organization Ideas, Frugal finds and more!

And lucky for you I have this awesome giveaway going on right now!!! Its my "Craft Room Raid GIVEAWAY" where I am sending one lucky winner all my favorite must haves when it comes to Creative Supplies!

So jump on over to Blue Cricket Design! Steph and I have shared a lot of things over the last 15 years... a girls camp cabin, clothes, juicy secrets, a house, croissants and frosted cookies (hehe!!! her favorite breakfast by the way!!!)... why not share totally awesome blog friends!!!! Hope to see you soon!!!

Vinyl on the Wall

2009-07-15T16:50:00.000-07:00

Here are some wall vinyl ideas I have done in the past. I will update this post if I get any more pictures of fun ideas...

This is in Leah's room. At the time I made it, her favorite song was the popcorn song, so it had a sweet double meaning...

This went over my friends stove

This went over my friends sliding door-

Land of the free... because of the brave

A welcome sign right on your door!

A fun border in what used to be the nursery

School Stickers

2009-07-15T16:41:00.000-07:00

I thought I would post this idea for any of you who have a vinyl cutter who want to make a bit of money, and any of you PTA presidents looking for an easy fundraiser! Here are some examples of bumper stickers I created for a couple schools in the area- its easy easy easy!

I sell them to the PTA for $2 each and the school turns around and sells them for $4 or $5- easy for the schools and easy for me too!

Just an idea...

Crispy Baked Italian Chicken

2009-07-15T16:08:00.000-07:00

Usually the word "crispy" in a recipe means fried and fatty, but this time it couldn't be any further from the truth! This is also super easy to cook and prepare- using ingredients I always have on hand!

All you do is get some chicken tenderloins or cut breasts into strips. You dip it into a bowl of Italian dressing, then roll it in a bowl of instant potato flakes. Place chicken on a foil-lined baking sheet and cook for 20 minutes at 350 degrees or until cooked through.

I was hesitating posting this recipe because it is very plain and the picture just looks dry. It wasn't dry at all, but I think next time I make it, I need to dredge it in the dressing or let it marinate for a bit to give it a little more flavor.

Still, I am keeping it in my file box because you can never have too many recipes that have 3 ingredients or less, so it will be good to have around on those nights when the pantry is literally empty!

Enchilada Scale- 6.75

Aunt Megan's Pasta

2009-07-15T16:03:00.001-07:00

My fantastic sister in law, Megan, made this for our family last week and I couldn't get enough of it. Best of all, both my kids loved it too! She calls it "Creamy Cheesy Tomato Chicken Pasta" - but around here, my kids know it as "Aunt Megan's Pasta." (which is even easier for me to say too!)

Ingredients:
- 4 thin sliced chicken breast
-6 cloves of garlic
-2 tsp flour
-1 c. chicken broth
-1/2 c. heavy cream
-2 oz. cream cheese
-8 oz. tomato sauce
-1 tsp. red pepper flakes
-1 tsp. oregano
-2 tsp butter
-1 c. parmesan cheese (grated not the sprinkly kind)

Directions:
1. Melt butter in a pan; add chicken and cook until just done; move chicken to a baking dish and cover (keep drippings in the pan)
2. Add flour to the pan and stir until pasty
3. Add chicken broth, red pepper flakes, and minced garlic, simmer 1 minute
4. Add cream cheese, cream, tomato sauce and most of the parmesan cheese, and oregano
5. Cook over medium-high heat until thick and bubbly; stirring almost constantly
6. Pour sauce over the chicken; top with the rest of the parmesan cheese
7. Bake uncovered at 400 degrees for 10-15 minutes

ENJOY OVER YOUR FAVORITE PASTA!
***the 1 tsp. red pepper flakes makes it pretty spicy, so I would add less if you are feeding to the kiddos. I also like to add one can of drained petite diced tomatoes to the mix, just to add a little extra.***

Flip Flops

2009-07-13T11:19:00.000-07:00

Living in Arizona means you can practically wear flip flops all year long- and that is fine by me! A couple years ago, I met Lisa and fell in love with her sandals! I decided to make some for Leah and when I realized how fun they were to make, I began selling these at local boutiques. I started creating a site to someday sell them, but I never fully launched anything on there- maybe someday... (sigh)...

The sandals pictured above were ones I made recently for Leah when I found flip flops at Old Navy for 97 cents! Leah loves wearing shoes (a little too much!) and I love making these, so together we make a great team!

If you haven't tried making these yet, get going! They are easy easy! Just make or buy a bow, secure it to the flip flop with some hot glue. Then take some wire and wrap it around a few times to make sure it stays nice and snug. Cover the wire with some ribbon and that's it!

Come on, its summer time- time to show off those feet!

"Pillow Talk" #2

2009-07-11T15:28:00.000-07:00

Today I put a little spin on my original framed pillow talk and I came up with these fun little things:

I like these even better than the original, and they are easier to make!

Etsy

Creatively Sew

2009-07-10T14:41:00.000-07:00

Today I decided to feature Tasha's craft blog- Creatively Sew.

Anyone who knows Tasha would agree she is probably the sweetest person ever! But what I am learning about Tasha is how creative that girl is! I read her family blog and shake my head all the time just wondering how she can handle 3 little kids, make home renovations on her new house, join us on our monthly challenges and still have time to be creative! She handles it all and seems to be loving every second!
She recently set up this blog to showcase some of her talents. She has even more projects on her family blog, so check there if her craft site entices you to do so. Here are some of my favorites from Creatively Sew...

Tissue Holders

This sign is one of my favorites!
How cute is this for a shower gift!?
And as a mom of 3 boys, she makes boys clothing cute too!
I would love this stack of burp cloths! (First I need a baby so I could have a purpose for them!)

I had more pictures, but I didn't want to feature the whole dang site- go there for yourself!

"Pillow Talk"

2009-07-10T08:22:00.001-07:00

Quite possibly my favorite invention yet!

I was joking with Rob the other night about sending him a "sign" so he knows exactly how I feel about "nighttime activities." I was only half serious at the time, but the more I thought about it, the funnier it became so I came up with this idea:

I got a regular old 5x7 frame and replaced the glass with some sheet metal so it is magnetic. I added some vinyl letters to title it and then I made some marble magnets with some positive and some negative sayings. Only 2 magnets are pictured here (and they didn't picture well with the glare, but they are cute, I promise!) Here is what they say:

Positive Saying Ideas:
In the mood
Activate launch sequence
Yes!
I’m game
Let’s Play
Sure!
Ready for Fun

Negative Saying Ideas:
Not in the mood
Not tonight
Maybe Tomorrow
Zzzzz
Um, no.
Try again later

Another idea for the marbles could be a solid piece of red paper on one and a solid piece of green on another to show a "red or green light."

Anyway, I can't wait for the next bridal shower I go to! Every girl needs one of these!!! If for nothing else but to laugh at and secretly agree at how helpful and true it is!

Now there is no more wondering if he's going to get lucky- now he will know in advance exactly how you feel!

On etsy

Families Are Forever Frame

2009-07-10T06:45:00.000-07:00

When my friends were sealed in the temple last year, I made this easy gift!

All you need is a cute frame and some scrapbook paper. If you have vinyl, use it, if not, print something similar out on your computer.

Put the paper inside the frame and put the vinyl lettering on the outside of the glass.

And that's it!

I have sold a couple on etsy and a few at boutiques... people seem to like them!

Sweet Silhouette

2009-07-09T15:55:00.000-07:00

Just another one of the BAZILLION crafts I have tried from my SIL. This one is so precious and so easy. I am just amazed how much it looks like the actual little girls!

Here's What You Need:
Scrapbook paper- something that coordinates with the room you want it in. I made mine for Leah's Lady Bug Room
1 black piece of cardstock
Canvas (I guess you could use wood too)
Profile picture- (this can be just printed off your computer, quality does not matter! Print it in the size you want your silhouette to be)
Mod podge & sponge brush
Ribbon to hang it (or hardware)
Embellishments- I used ribbon and a flower with a button.

Here's How To Do It:
Measure and cut four strips of scrapbook paper to cover the edges of your canvas and measure and cut one large piece to cover the front.

Use Mod Podge to glue the paper to each side and the front of your canvas. I think bubbles are inevitable- I tried my best to get rid of huge air pockets, but just smooth it out as best you can!

Take the profile picture from your computer and cut it out.

Lay the image on the black piece of card stock and trace around the edges. Then cut out the traced image.

Using Mod Podge, glue the black silhouette onto your canvas, and then apply Mod Podge all over the top of the silhouette and the edges of the canvas to create a seal.

Once the canvas is dry, you can embellish any way you want! Then just add a ribbon and put it on display!

Done!

Interchangeable Head Bands

2009-07-09T15:45:00.000-07:00

I have never seen one of these done like this before, but I am not staking any claim to the idea because I am sure there are different varieties out there and lets face it, they are probably better than mine!

Everyone has seen the headbands made from tights and knee-highs, but I started making mine like this so that I can change out the bow that sits on top of them. Instead of wrapping the glued seams of the tights all the way around with ribbon, I secure the bottom side of the ribbon to the tights (the part that touches the head) and I leave open the top part so that the ribbon is loose. This way you can slid any type of clip through the ribbon and make any clippie a headband!

How easy (and useful) is that?!

Polka Party Hair Bows

2009-07-09T15:39:00.000-07:00

I got some coordinating polka dot ribbon for super cheap and made these! I'll sit down in front of the TV after my kids go to bed and instead of folding laundry like I should be doing, I will make bow after bow after bow. It is addicting, really!

Felt Bows

2009-07-09T15:26:00.000-07:00

Who says hair accessories have to be made from ribbon?! I get stopped all the time when Leah is wearing one of these!

I made other clips before using silk flowers, but it wasn't til I spent some time with my fantastic sister in law who showed me how to think outside the bow box and find embellishments from your local scrapbook or craft store!

These flowers and butterflies are from Robert's Crafts (which they really need to open in Phoenix!!!) and they are just sold in packs of 12, I think, for something like $3!

They come as stickers, so I dabbed the backs of mine into baby powder. I added a rhinestone center and attached them to a ribbon-lined alligator clip and that's it!

How fun and easy is that?!?

So start looking beyond the ribbons and bows my friends. These are cuter and easier- anyone that can use a glue stick can do it!

Have fun!

Polka Dot Letter Bow Holder

2009-07-09T15:17:00.000-07:00

I made this for Leah over a year ago and have ended up making so many for friends and boutique customers. It is super simple and very affordable!

Just buy a wooden letter and paint it the color of your choice.

Embellish it how you want- I used some scrap vinyl I had laying around and just punched out polka dots in 3 different sizes with my craft punches.

Add 2 pieces of long ribbon to the bottom. I used my staple gun and then covered the staples with a strip of ribbon so the staples didn't mark the walls.

Then add bows! Leah's bow holder is over flowing- I think I need to get an E, A, and H to help hold all of hers!

That's it!

Etsy Link

Random Vinyl Projects

2009-07-08T18:27:00.000-07:00

I thought I would just keep an on going post about some random vinyl projects I have done! I will update as I get more pictures...

I cut this vinyl for my MIL to give to her YW at New Beginnings this year. I love how they turned out, I had one displayed in my home... until Ryan knocked it onto the tiled floor. That was the end of that one!

The YW in my MIL's ward made these for their moms for Mother's Day

I made this for me because it is one of my favorite quotes, but then my friend liked it so much, I gave it away! I think I want to make another one... and keep it this time!

I was given this by my sister in law for Christmas and got compliments all the time from guests that would come over. I have since made several varying ones for gifts. So easy!

This is a great idea for a teacher's or neighbors gift! I usually get swamped with orders for these at the end of the year or at Christmas time or the end of a school year. The jars are only a few bucks at IKEA- add some vinyl (you could even add their name to personalize it) add some treats, tie some ribbon on the top and done!

I took this mirror that I got at IKEA (super cheap)...

...put this quote on it....

...and made this!
I LOVE this project! I just took a black fram and put this vinyl on top of the glass!

We have all seen these! Here is a popular style I have made several times!

Something our ward did for a Super Saturday:

I thought this was a cute idea- Jenny V. had me cut this vinyl for her and then she centered it on a big wall surrounded by framed pictures of her family. Wish I had a picture of the end result, but you get the idea!

The options are endless with some vinyl- I have so much fun with my cutter! Every home should have one!

To DYE For!

2009-07-07T22:28:00.000-07:00

Today for "Make Something Monday", the kids and I made great use of some old stained shirts that were ready to be thrown away!

We turned this

into this

Heres how!

Materials Needed:

- Fabric dye. I used Rit- they have a bunch of colors, its cheap and its easy to use. It is usually found on the laundry detergent aisle.
- T Shirt. Test out the stained ones you are ready to toss- you might be happily surprised!

- Large pot
- Hot Water
- Salt
- Spoon to stir around with (if you use a wooden spoon, it will get stained!)
- Tongs
- Rubber bands

Directions

Prepare dye according to package directions. I added more water once the shirt was in because it didnt seem to be enough and I didnt want the shirt to burn on the bottom of the pan!

While waiting for the water to boil, pinch the shirt in a small bundle and wrap around the rubber band tightly. Do this several times, all over the shirt.

Add the shirt to the pot of boiling dye and stir for around to ensure it is totally covered. Leave in for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally as long as there is enough water to cover the shirt. If there isn't enough water, either add some more, or keep stirring so your shirt doesn't burn!

When finished, take out with tongs and run under cold water to make sure all extra dye runs out.

Now let it dry! You could stick it in the dryer, or leave it on your front porch like I did if you live in Arizona and it is 110 degrees outside!

When the shirt is totally dry, take off the rubber bands to see what it all looks like! For me, this felt like opening a present on Christmas morning!

...AND NOW YOU'RE DONE!

If you don't want to get stuck doing all the work, then save this craft for older kids. Mine were too young to do it themselves, but I knew that going into it. That doesn't mean they didn't have fun though- look how happy they are with a bag of rubber bands and some salad tongs!!!

...and of course Leah is just loving her "new shirt!" The smile on this girly girl's face makes this craft an absolute success!

Family Est. Blocks

2009-07-06T15:25:00.000-07:00

How cute are these????!!!!

I found them on The Creative Crate and fell in love! With family in town, I thought it would be perfect for the girls to make them while the boys sat on the couch all day watching sports. (Is your family that way too? UGH!)

Anyway, if you haven't been to The Creative Crate, you must do so now! Stacie is super creative and has some great ideas that I want to copy! Her blocks are way cuter than mine! I can look through her stuff all day and just imagine what life would be like as a real creative person. (sigh.)

If you don't have a Cricut or a Vinly Lettering Machine, let me know and I will send you some letters! Or if you want it really easy, visit my etsy shop.

Taco-Stuffed Pasta Shells

2009-07-06T09:14:00.000-07:00

I got this out of a magazine when Ethan was a baby and we all love it! I made it on Saturday and Ethan ate 6 or 7 shells! I love finding something that my kids love to eat!

Ingredients:
1 box of dried jumbo pasta shells, prepared according to package directions, rinsed and drained 1 pound extra-lean ground beef
1 package (1.25 ounces) Taco Seasoning Mix
1 cup of water 1 can (16-ounce) can refried beans 1 cup (4 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese - divided 1 jar chunky salsa - divided 1/4 cup sliced green onions Sour cream (optional)

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook beef in large skillet until brown; drain. Add seasoning mix and water; cook over low heat for 5 minutes or until thickened. Add beans and 3/4 cup cheese; mix well. Spread 1/4 cup salsa over bottom of casserole dish.
Fill pasta shells with beef mixture; place on baking dish, filled side up. Spoon remaining salsa over shells; top with remaining cheese.
Cover with foil. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through. Sprinkle with green onions and remaining cheese. Serve with sour cream.

Enchilada Scale: 9

Chocolate Covered Oreo Cake

2009-07-06T09:07:00.000-07:00

I made this for my in laws last Friday and we all agreed- SUPER YUMMY! Hello, its covered in chocolate, how can it not be fantastic?! Its a really pretty cake and looks impressive without all the hard work!

Ingredients
1 pkg. (2-layer size) devil's food chocolate cake mix

4 squares BAKER'S Semi-Sweet Chocolate

1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter

1 pkg. (8 oz.) PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese, softened

1/2 cup sugar

2 cups thawed COOL WHIP Whipped Topping

12 OREO Cookies, coarsely crushed

HEAT oven to 350ºF.

PREPARE cake batter and bake in 2 (9-inch) round pans as directed on package. Cool cakes in pans 10 min. Invert cakes onto wire racks; gently remove pans. Cool cakes completely.

MICROWAVE chocolate and butter in small microwaveable bowl on HIGH 2 min. or until butter is melted. Stir until chocolate is completely melted. Cool 5 min.

MEANWHILE, beat cream cheese and sugar in large bowl with mixer until blended. Gently stir in COOL WHIP and crushed cookies. Stack cake layers on plate, spreading cream cheese mixture between layers. Spread top with chocolate glaze; let stand until firm. Keep refrigerated.

(Mine never looks as pretty as the magazine picture!)

S'Mores Dessert Squares

2009-07-06T08:53:00.000-07:00

My sister in law made this for the 4th of July and it was super yummy! Definitely going in my recipe repertoire!

Ingredients
64 NILLA Wafers, divided

5 Tbsp. butter, melted

3 Tbsp. sugar

3-1/4 cups cold milk, divided

1 pkg. (4-serving size) JELL-O Chocolate Instant Pudding

2 pkg. (4-serving size each) JELL-O White Chocolate Flavor Instant Pudding

1-1/2 cups thawed COOL WHIP Whipped Topping

1-1/2 cups JET-PUFFED Miniature Marshmallows

1/2 square BAKER'S Semi-Sweet Chocolate, grated

PREHEAT oven to 350°F. Finely crush 40 of the wafers; place in medium bowl. Add butter and sugar; mix until well blended. Press firmly onto bottom of 13x9-inch baking pan. Bake 8 min. or until lightly browned; set aside.

POUR 1-1/4 cups of the milk into medium bowl. Add dry chocolate pudding mix. Beat with wire whisk 2 min. or until well blended. Spread over crust; top with remaining 24 wafers. Pour remaining 2 cups milk into large bowl. Add dry white chocolate pudding mixes. Beat with wire whisk 2 min. or until well blended. Gently stir in whipped topping. Spread over wafer layer in pan. Refrigerate at least 3 hours or until set.

PREHEAT broiler just before serving. Top dessert evenly with marshmallows. Broil 1 min. or until marshmallows are puffed and lightly browned. Sprinkle with chocolate. Cut into 24 squares. Serve immediately. Store leftover squares in refrigerator.

Enchilada Scale: 9

Buffalo Chicken Dip

2009-07-06T08:40:00.000-07:00

My friend brought this to a shower a few weeks ago and it was so yummy that I haven't stopped thinking about it! With family in town for the weekend, I thought it would be a good time to try it out, so I made it and I am officially in love...

Ingredients:

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts- I put these in frozen
2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup Ranch dressing
3/4 cup pepper sauce (such as Frank's Red Hot®)
1 1/2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese

Directions:

Throw it all in a crock pot on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 2-4 hours.

-or-

Heat chicken and hot sauce in a skillet over medium heat, until heated through. Stir in cream cheese and ranch dressing. Cook, stirring until well blended and warm. Mix in half of the shredded cheese, and transfer the mixture to a slow cooker. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top, cover, and cook on Low setting until hot and bubbly.

Serve with Tostitos!

Enchilada Scale: 9.99

Ribbon Boards

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

Ribbon boards are a fun and easy craft to make. They are easily customizable to fit and match any room of the house! I have made these a million times and they have all been different! Above I used a couple old shelves, a piece ar spare particle board and a square piece of cork that all were just laying in my craft closet! I added some batting, material and ribbon along with embellishments on a few (vinyl, rhinestones etc.) and in no time your scraps become useful!

Here is a big board hanging over my craft desk I made years ago...

And here is a simple tutorial...

Materials:
Board (in this case I am using a piece of cork)
Batting
Material
Ribbon
Staple Gun (although with this I probably could've used a regular old stapler!)
Glue Gun

1. Place batting over surface. Fold ends over and secure by stapling from the back side.
2. Place material over batting and fold material over to the back and secure by stapling.
*Make sure that once you secure one side of the material, you pull the material really tight to the other side and then staple. You dont want your material to sag.
3. Add ribbon. You can do a criss-cross pattern or no pattern at all. Staple one side of the ribbon to the back, then pull it across the front of the board and secure to the back again.
4. Add embellishments (optional)
5. Add a ribbon to hang the board on the wall (or some hardward if its heavy wood.)

6. Cover your "tracks". Glue a thick piece of ribbon along the entire boarder on the back side to hide your staples. Like this:

And there you have it!

July's Challenge Journal

2009-07-05T09:52:00.000-07:00

July- Week Three

This week I am going to try to say more meaningful prayers! I get stuck saying repitious prayers and the monotony is not good. I want to think about what I am going to say before I start, and I also want to be more grateful and not ask for so many blessings!

July- Week Two

This week's overview:
I decided my kids were way too spoiled! Seriously on Thursday when we weren't doing anything for like an hour, Ethan was whinning about how boring his life was and how he couldn't wait to get back to school so he could get out of the house!!! We had been out of the house all week, including 2 slumber parties- I hate his attitude! So as much as I was totally excited to plan a fun activity every day to create summer memories, I think my kids got to expect it and maybe if we only do something fun every so often they will appreciate it more!!!

Friday, July 17th:
Today we drove all the way to Scottsdale to go to McDonalds! Not really, but thats how it ended up! We met the Whitleys at their house and jumped in the car and drove 35 minutes to Scottsdale for a Mud Mania day- basically they flood the park and the kids play in the mud. We got there and it was packed- way too crowded for my liking- and HOT HOT HOT! The kids and I were so sweaty, we literally got out of the car, walked to the mud pit, looked at the line and decided ice cream sounded way better! So we hit the local McDonalds and headed home!

Thursday, July 16th:
Today could've been better- we had lots of errands to run and the kids like getting out of the house, so that was good, but things didn't get fun for them til we went to grandma's house for the afternoon. They love grandma's house!

Wednesday, July 15th:
We spent the day swimming with the Davenports and came home around 3pm- just in time to clean the house and start dinner before Rob got home!

Tuesday, July 14th:
Today we went to Queen Creek to visit my aunt. She has 4 boys that my kids love to play with! We took all the kiddos to Mesquite Groves- a city water park in Chandler. It was a blast! Since Rob is out of town til tomorrow, we decided to spend the night in Queen Creek!

Monday, July 13th:
Took the kids shopping and let Ethan bring a friend- he chose Kenzie- and the kids had fun, I did not. 3 kids is bad enough walking through the mall- 4 was good birth control...

Sunday, July 12th:
This week my goal is to have fun with my kids everyday! I want to do something special and create fun summertime memories. Lately my kids have been really trying my patience and so this week I am going to try extra hard to let it roll off my back. I am hoping that by occupying their time and getting them out of the house will make them happier too. Wish me luck!

July- Week One

Week One Wrap Up:
I pretty much failed. I didn't ever get it all done. I got most of it done, but not all of it. I still have a basket of socks and towels to fold, and one light and dark load to wash and dry. My counter doesn't look nearly as full as it did at the beginning of the week, but it isn't how how want it to look either. Laundry will forever be my nemesis!

Friday, July 10th:
Today was a big day, but could've been bigger! I folded a bunch of towels, all of Ryan's clothes are folded and hung, I hung all of what needs to be hung of mine and Robs' and I re-made all the beds with clean linens from our company that was in town. I wanted to do more- I wanted to get it all done while watching the premier of "Big Brother"... but instead I got a bunch of vinyl orders done and I played with my kids. The rest of the Laundry can wait til tomorrow!

Thursday, July 9th:
Today I rewashed the stinky load left in the washer from Tuesday and sorted all the piles of laundry into which room they belong in. Tomorrow is the day! I am going to fold every last sock if I have to stay up all night and do it! Ugh, why is laundry so hard to keep done?!?

Wednesday, July 8th:
No progress. In fact I need to re wash a load I forgot about in the washer from yesterday. Hopefully it doesn't stink too bad in the laundry room. I am not doing so good with this challenge!

Tuesday, July 7th:
Today I stripped the beds and washed 2 loads of linens from having company over. Still waiting for motivation to fold it all. Baby steps, right?

Monday, July 6th:
Ok, I will be honest- I am hating that I chose this goal as I have no motivation to do any of it! I still have my BIL and his family in town, so hanging out with them is way more fun! Today the piles on the counter are still there and now they are even overflowing onto the floor. I hate laundry. (sigh)

Sunday, July 5th:
My Goal this week is to get and keep all the laundry done! Here is what I have to get done:

That's all clean laundry waiting to be folded and put away. I would estimate it to be about 6 or 7 loads. I think I only have a load or 2 waiting to be washed and dried, so that shouldn't add too much to the task at hand. But I do also have to wash the linens from having house guests this past weekend- sheets from 4 beds and towels from 6 people. All this will be done by next Sunday, July 12th.

Wish me luck...

Molten Chocolate Surprise

2009-07-02T19:59:00.001-07:00

I just finished baking and eating this for the first time and I have got to say I love kraftfoods.com!
2 bites into this deliciousness, I thought, "This is definitely blog worthy!"

What You Need

4 squares BAKER'S Semi-Sweet Chocolate

1/2 cup (1 stick) butter

2 whole eggs

2 egg yolks

1 cup powdered sugar

1/3 cup flour

12 CHIPS AHOY! Cookies

1/2 cup thawed COOL WHIP Whipped Topping

Make It

HEAT oven to 425°F. Microwave chocolate and butter in large microwaveable bowl on HIGH 2 min. or until butter is melted. Stir with whisk until chocolate is completely melted. Beat whole eggs, yolks, sugar and flour with whisk until blended. Gradually beat into chocolate mixture.

LINE 12 (2-1/2-inch) muffin cups with paper liners; spray with cooking spray. Place 1 cookie, upside-down, on bottom of each cup; cover with batter.

BAKE 8 min. or until cakes are firm around edges but still soft in centers. Let stand 1 min. Carefully remove cakes from pan. Invert into dessert dishes; remove paper liners. Serve with whipped topping.

***I baked for 10 and it was just a bit over done, so watch it carefully!***

Banana Bread

2009-07-02T15:23:00.000-07:00

We made this last week on "What's Cooking Wednesday" and it is the best banana bread I have made yet! Thank you Amanda for submitting it in the ward cookbook!

Ingredients:

1 1/2 c. sugar
3/4 c. butter
2 eggs
1/4 tsp. salt
2 c. flour
1/2 c. buttermilk
1 tsp. baking soda
3 very ripe bananas, mashed
1 tsp. vanilla

Directions:
In a large bowl, cream sugar and butter. Add eggs; set aside.

In a separate bowl, combine salt and flour; set aside.

Dissolve baking soda in buttermilk. Add flour mixture and milk mixture to butter mixture and mix well. Add bananas and vanilla. Pour into a well greased loaf pan. Bake at 300 for 1 1/2 hours or until a toothpick comes out clean.

***The picture of the finished product is not mine. My loaf was already being picked at as it was making its way from the oven to the cooling rack. Guilty as charged.***

E-A-T

2009-07-02T15:03:00.000-07:00

I wanted E-A-T on my kitchen walls above my cupboards, but my search for the perfect wood letters never panned out. (Ok, so I only spent 1 day looking, but I don't exactly have the best patience!)

And then one night it hit me- vinyl letters!!! I quickly got on the computer, made some lettering in the exact font I was looking for in wood and ta-da! I love how they turned out! Just the "something" my kitchen needed!

If you've never worked with vinyl before, here's what I did, step by step. (After making the letters, of course!)

Items Needed:
-Vinyl
-A surface (walls, wood, tile etc.)

1. Place vinyl decals with masking on desired surface. Rub with a credit card or squeegee over the masking to make sure the decals stick to the surface.

2. Carefully pull back on the masking to remove it.

3. And you're done!

Here's what my kitchen looks like now! LETS EAT! (This inst the best picture 'cause you can't see the E, but its there, I promise!)

Scripture Goodies

2009-07-01T23:20:00.000-07:00

April 2009's Visiting Teaching message was about searching the scriptures. Here is what I made for each of the ladies I visit:

I put some vinyl lettering on the outside of a cute plant pot...

Included the following items....

(A note pad, a pen, a scripture marker, a bookmark that I made, some candies & homemade cookies.)

Put it all together, and here's what you get!
So easy, so cute!

July's Challenge- Coming Right Up!

2009-07-01T15:29:00.000-07:00

Lets call this one "New Weeks Resolution"

... I was never good at a New Years Resolution, so maybe weekly goals are what I need to set!

Here's how to do it:

Every Sunday night, set a goal for yourself. Something you want to do or improve on all week long. Some ideas that I have are...
- Get and Keep all the laundry done
- Work in the garden everyday (even in the 100 degree heat!)
- Spend one on one time with each of my kids daily
- Make a nice homemade meal using a new recipe ever day
- Read a book
- Say more meaningful prayers
- Read my scriptures
- Do a random act of kindness

....hmmm, I think July might need more than 4 weeks in it! I have a lot I could improve on.

Anyway, blog about what your goal is by Monday and update us on your progress as often as you can! We can all cheer for each other!

Good luck!

My First Featured Blogger!

2009-07-01T14:50:00.000-07:00

I am the first to admit that while I seem to be creative, I am really just an ordinary person faking it! I can probably count on one hand the number of items I have made in my lifetime that I came up with on my own- everything else I create is a copycat version of something I saw from someone else! Because of this, I find it only fair (and super fun) to "feature" the real creative people out there- people that have and continue to inspire me and so many others!

First up, it seems only right to feature the person who got me started blogging myself- Becca D. from Blue Cricket Design. I could write a whole book about the things I love and have learned from Becca- she is amazing!

She recently changed her blog from a boutique to a how-to, amazing, tutorial filled site that is delightful! She cooks, she sews, she refinishes furniture, she takes great photos, she crafts, she inspires.

Here are a few of my favorite things Becca has recently been up to:

These fantastic skirts for her little girls
These silhouettes are adorable- I ended up making one for Leah not too long ago! I love it!
Something I have wanted to try- making dresses out of mens dress shirts!
I get hungry just looking at this one!
Aren't these felt flowers just adorable?!
And check out the before and afters of her furniture. It makes me want to go hunting at a garage sale for a good find that can be turned into something like this!
Yep, she made this adorable blessing dress- cutest one I have EVER seen!

Right now, Becca has a giveaway going on- visit her site, become a follower, and you could win! I never win anything, so if you win, you owe me.

Blog Buttons

2009-06-30T16:24:00.000-07:00

Thanks for grabbing my button! All you have to do is right-click on the image and save it somewhere to your computer. Then, from your blog layout settings, add a picture gadget, upload the picture and link it back here. Super simple!

Caesar Spaghetti Salad

2009-06-30T00:05:00.000-07:00

In an effort to get out of the habit of PB&J every day for lunch, I went to the pantry and found the following items:

-Spaghetti
-Macaroni
- Tuna
- Tomato
- Shredded Parmesan Cheese
- Creamy Caesar dressing

(the last 3 items were in the fridge, not the pantry!)

Sidenote: I am a huge lover of pastas- cold or hot- but unfortunately for me, Rob is not. Because of this, I never make these foods for dinner and the only time I get to indulge on some Italian is when we go to Olive Garden and Rob can get Chicken Parmesan and I can get whatever noodles in whatever sauce I want! I decided today I would take advantage of Rob being at work and I would mix up a cool pasta salad using whatever sounded good!

Directions:

First- boil your pasta according to the package directions. You can use whatever pasta you have on hand- they all taste the same!

Drain and cool by running under cool water in the colander.

Next, get creative and add whatever makes a good salad. Diced tomatoes, tuna for some protein, olives and bell peppers would've been great, but we didnt have any!

Then add the dressing. I am in love with creamy Caesar for pasta salads- I highly recommend it!

Lastly, sprinkle with cheese and E-N-J-O-Y!

My kids thought it was fantastic! Here are my boys enjoying it

Rain Sticks!

2009-06-29T23:59:00.000-07:00

Make Something Monday was super fun today! Who doesn't love to pick up those cool rain sticks in the store every time you see one?! Today me and the kiddos made our own- heres how!

Materials:

Long tubes: I needed 3 for my 3 kids, so I used 1 shipping tube, 1 gift wrap tube and 1 paper towel tube- just what I had laying around!

Strips of cardboard: I cut strips from food boxes. Just make sure they are thin enough to fit inside your tube.

Packing tape: You want it as wide as possible to cover the opening of your tube.

Seeds or rice: I used rice, pinto beans and dried split peas- again, just what I had on hand!

Accessories to decorate: We used markers & ribbon

Directions:

Tape one end of your tube. I just laid the tape in several different directions over the opening

Wrap the base of the tube a few times around to secure the ends of each strip of tape. Does that make sense? Basically just make sure it is well taped so that your Rain Stick won't leak!

Cut cardboard strips out of boxes to be thinner than your tube (about 1 inch wide should work).

Fold the cardboard strips back and forth like a fan.

Put the strips into the tube. The first one should fall to the bottom of the tube. Keep adding strips until they reach the top of the tube.

Pour rice and seeds into the tube.

Tape the other end.

Decorate the tube with markers, paints or by gluing on paper or ribbon.

Ta Da! (Yep, Ethan is not happy about all the pictures I took for this. He was totally refusing to smile and be a part of it!)

Chore Chart

2009-06-29T23:10:00.000-07:00

This is the chart I made for the summer time. I was sick of the kids getting up and turning on the TV without getting dressed or brushing their teeth. Its like as soon as the TV comes on for the day, the house becomes so lazy and nothing else gets done! I am ok with an occasional lazy day in PJ's but our summer was turning into a daily pajama party! Plus the kids wouldn't eat breakfast til almost lunch time and that threw our schedule way off. So I made this chart that has their morning "before TV" chores and a nighttime "before bed" chores. So far it has worked pretty good!

Here is how I made it:

Materials Needed:

- Poster Board
- Construction Paper, or scrapbook paper
- Tape
- Glue
- Chore Chart Document (I created an excel document, but this doesn't have to be anything fancy!)
- Stickers to show completion, but you can also use a marker or crayon and color the squares.

Step 1: Put glue all over the back side of your construction paper and mount it to the cardboard. (I let Leah do this part!)

Step 2: Tape all 4 corners of the chart and mount it to the construction paper.

Step 3: Hang it on the wall!

Ta Da! Nothing fancy, but very functional

If you are interested in a more "sophisticated" chore chart, I make these and sell them on etsy. Check it out!

Challenge Ideas

2009-06-27T13:49:00.000-07:00

It is time to pick a new challenge for the month of July. What are your thoughts? Here are some ideas I came up with months ago- some of them we have already done, but I have loved each of the past ideas, so I don't mind a repeat if the majority votes that way. If you have a better idea, let me know! I will post the new challenge on July 1st- next Wednesday.

- Blog about something we love every week day. Anything from family members, vacation spots, summer treats etc.
- Blog about something creative you made- a craft, a new game with the kids, a new way of doing something etc.
-Better your home. You could clean something you dont usually get to, touch up those areas that need some touch up paint, clean/de-clutter something different each day- not like a huge chore, I am talking about one drawer or closet or makeup bag each week day.
- Each Sunday you could set a goal to better yourself (ie. finishing that project you started years ago, reading scriptures, saying more meaningful prayers, writing in your journal, finishing a good book each week etc.) and then each day of the week you can post about your progress. This would be good for those people who, like myself, have good intentions of setting a New Years Resolution but always fail miserably by week 2. Since this goal is only a week long, I cant see myself falling flat on my face!
-Write a note to someone everyday of the week. Thank you notes, love notes, notes of encouragement etc. The problem with this is it may be too personal to blog about!
-A picture a day. Capture a great picture of anything you want!
-Do something nice for someone every day... whether it's letting someone pass you while you drive, inviting people over for dinner, leaving a sweet note for a friend, etc.

... thats all I can think of right now- can you think of anything better?

Friendly Friday

2009-06-26T08:25:00.000-07:00

Today I called my great friend, Tiffany, who I haven't talked to in a couple weeks. Her and her family just got back from an awesome Hawaiian vacation, so I got all the details about how much fun they had. I just love talking to Tiffany. She is one of those girls that is always upbeat and never negative about anything! She always makes me smile.

3 for Thursday

2009-06-25T07:00:00.000-07:00

I could have cleaned 3 rooms, or done 3 of something else, but today I hit 3 of my favorite stores. It was a good day...

White Glove Wednesday

2009-06-24T09:43:00.000-07:00

Since my house was perfectly cleaned last Friday before we left on vacation, it is still amazingly spotless! (I love coming home from vacation to a clean house!)

That means today I can spend my "White Glove" day making my car that just traveled from Arizona to California and back nice and sparkly! I need to scub off the dead bugs on the outside, wash the fingerprints off the windows, vacuum cheez-its and french fries out of car seats and carpets, and hang a new vanilla scented tree to overpower the smell of beef jerky that is ridiculously potent after being left inside the car overnight.

Wish me luck...

Time Out Tuesday

2009-06-23T09:29:00.000-07:00

I guess you can count the 3 hours of "alone time" I had from 11-2am while driving back from California to Arizona as my "Time Out" for today's challenge. Everyone else in the car was dead asleep and the silence was super fantastic for me and my thoughts. I had some ideas for improving different aspects in my life, as well as some fun ideas and things to do this summer. I am still looking for my million dollar idea that will land me on the Oprah Show called, "Stay at Home Moms who Made it Big", but I might need a few more late-night drives to get me there...

Make-Over Monday

2009-06-22T09:23:00.000-07:00

I really wanted to do a room makeover for today's challenge, but we were out of town! Instead, I had a little "Mommy/Daughter" time as the boys watched a baseball game and me and Leah painted our toes! I love that Leah loves all things girly.

Faithful Friday

2009-06-19T11:20:00.000-07:00

"When life gives you more than you can stand, kneel."

It is only 11:22 as I type this and already the day has been a disaster! We have been getting random phone calls from some survey company since 4:30am! They call every hour and when you answer, they hang up. There is no number to call back from the caller ID, just the company name. So I went to the company's website and there is a whole page about how these calls are not from them and they are working to fix the problem! So irritating...

Because the phone has been ringing every hour, Ryan, who usually sleeps til 9 was up when the phone was ringing for the 4th time at 7am. He has been super grumpy all day just crying and whinning.

Leah, too, has been crying all morning and I have put her in time out 3 times and spanked her once- I hate spanking, but this is my last resort.

Ethan has been great all day until just now. I made lunch and he has decided to be the pickiest kid in the world. Seriously, he used to eat everything. Now, he rarely eats anything without a fight and it drives me crazy.

He and Leah are fighting downstairs as we speak because she won't stop looking at him and she is apparently not chewing with he mouth closed. Shes 2.

Its days like these that have me never wanting another baby again. I can't deal with the 3 I have!

When I came on the computer to see the challenge for the day, I thought this could be exactly what I need! I need to go lock myself in my room and get down on my knees. I need to ask for patience, I need to ask for love, and I need to see the good and happiness that comes from being a mom. If I count my blessings, maybe I will feel more blessed and not so out of control!

At the end of my prayer I will thank my Heavenly Father for giving me all that I have... and then I might ask for a bit more patience.

Thriving Thursday

2009-06-18T10:41:00.000-07:00

Man how I have missed crafting!!! I haven't made anything creative for over a month and reading all of your creative blogs has definitely given me the itch to create! I should've taken pictures of all I did today, but I didn't. And honestly, nothing was that fantastic. Maybe this time away from crafting has fried my brain and I am no longer creative. I hope not because I still had fun. Here is what I made:

Doll clothes for one of Leah's dolls.

Some bows

Some flip flops

A skirt for Leah (though I am not done and it is not looking too pretty!)

I also got a bit creative with some old lingerie! Don't laugh til I explain! I have a drawer full of lingerie that I got from my bridal shower 8 years ago- most of them still with tags attached! Instead of dumping them, I cut them up and made some silk blankies. One side is made from the silk lingerie, the other side is a soft flannel. Leah always loves sleeping with something silky, so this was perfect for her! It is recycling at its best!

I am leaving on vacation tomorrow, so the crafting will stop for now, but I hope to get all my stuff back out again soon!

Weeding Wednesday

2009-06-17T10:32:00.000-07:00

This picture was taken in 2005 when we first moved into our house. It was just the 3 of us then- look how much has changed! I am just including this picture so you can get an idea of what the yard looks like that I was working on for "Weeding Wednesday"

I went outside at 9am, fed the kids lunch at 11, was back outside at 11:30, and not done til 2pm. I weeded all our planters, cut down some flower bushes that were overgrowing onto our walkway (we have added those since this picture was taken), I mowed the lawn and edged the entire grass with scissors since our edger was broken and then hosed everything off to make it clean and pretty. It took me nearly all day, but it looks so nice and feels so good to be productive like that! Plus, my kids got to play outside all day so everyone was happy! Not to mention they spent lots of time in the hose getting me and them soaking wet!

And thank goodness for nice weather! On a normal day in June this could never happen!

Tell A Secret Tuesday

2009-06-16T17:06:00.000-07:00

Without getting too personal, the secret I am disclosing on this blog is that I am only ticklished (spelling) on the center of my back and on both calves! I can't stand having a back massage that pushes hard along my spine- it tickles so bad! And grabbing my calves will send me into a laughing frenzy! Keep your hands off me! My 6 year old discovered this and thinks its hilarious to catch me off guard. Little stinker!

So there it is. My secret. Which isn't so much a secret anymore I guess...

Where Did I Come Up WIth This Random Name Of My Blog?

2009-06-15T16:37:00.000-07:00

MEMORY MONDAY

Today I thought about disclosing the reason behind the random name of this blog of mine!

The memory I want to share goes back to the summer of '97 when I hitched a ride to Lake Mead with my then best friend and future sister in law's family. Me and the Box family- a bunch of girls and poor Tom.

Here are some of my memories of that week:

- It was my first (and last) time water skiing! I swallowed half the lake and got the biggest wedgie! I was afraid to get out of the water because I thought my butt was bleeding! (Sorry if that sounds crude- it sure felt awful!) Did I mention I never got up on the skis? Hence the reason I haven't tried it again!

-We had some serious fun playing Phase 10!

- Reena took some horrible pictures of me with my hair braided crazy and threatened to use them as blackmail! I have those pictures, but I do not have the negatives...

- The girls went into town one night and hit up the local Denny's. I have pictures of us there that still make me smile! (That was long before digital pictures, but I should scan them and upload them!)

- This is random, but I remember Becca coloring some pillowcases for our future monther in law's ward for their skit at girl's camp.

- Rob had receintly left for his mission, so any spare second of the day not spent laughing and having girl talk was spent thinking of him and how long 2 years sounded.

- Jason Box was also in the MTC so we all spent time writing our missionaries.

- We stopped at Carl's Jr. on the way home.

- Anneke clogged the toliet with a week's worth of poo and some female personal items. She them refused to clean it out and the chore was given to Becca. Oh poor Becca...

- Me and Jenny had matching pink bathing suits. The same swimsuit that I was told was too immodest to wear to a youth conference later that same summer. Whatever! It was a one-piece!

- Herbal Essences Shampoo was a new product on the market and smelt like heaven. On the drive to the lake, Jenny bought a magazine that had an advertisement in it for Herbal Essences. On the ad there was an 800 number and a 10 digit code that when entered would tell you if you won any free Herbal Essence products. If you won, you would then give your name and address. At each of the rest stops we went to on the way, we would call the 800 number and make up a random 10 digit code- some were winners, some were not! I remember when my samples of that shampoo came though, and I loved, loved, loved it! That was all Jenny's idea, if I remember correctly.

- The movie, "My Best Friend's Wedding" had just come out in theaters and we listened to the soundtrack the whole week. We also made up dances to several songs and ended up performing "Wishin' and Hopin'" at girls camp. I still remember the movements...

- There were some 12, no, 10 year old boys who thought they were flirting with us from their boat as we layed on our rafts. Maybe from a distance they thought they could get a piece of us. So we had some good laughs and made up some names- Shirley and Yolanda- and said we were from Hickville, Oklahoma. Somewhere one of them is blogging about the hot girls from the lake in '97. And probably he still hasn't ever had a girlfriend...

Family Friday

2009-06-12T17:28:00.000-07:00

Today was so hard to get a family activity planned! I was booked solid almost all day with preparations for Staci's shower tonight and my family was only all together during dinner, which lasted maybe a 1/2 hour!

I am counting the 2 hours I spent at the pool today as my "Family Fun Day" even though we go swimming every day, and even though Rob was not there!

I make the rules for this challenge and I say it counts.

Thoughtful Thursday

2009-06-11T11:06:00.000-07:00

What is Occupying My Thoughts on Thoughtful Thursday???

After talking to my sister in law today, I am so wanting to craft! I want to bust out my sewing machine, buy some cute fabric and go nuts like I haven't done in months! I want to get creative! My issue right now is that I am in "Toss It Mode" and find myself cleaning and decluttering every spare second of the day. Doesn't sound like a bad thing, right? Well the problem is this: I am not getting anything else done! I have laundry coming out of the walls that needs to be folded, I have a to-do list that is ever growing, and I have a craft table that is calling my name! I decided to do a garage sale tomorrow and get rid of everything that is overflowing from our 3rd car garage (thats where I have been stashing all junk to get rid of). Then maybe next week I can let my creative juices flow and get lost in what I love to do most!

Sorry for the random thoughts! I took a different approach to the "Being Thoughtful" challenge, but don't hate me for it!

What to Wear Wednesday

2009-06-10T13:42:00.000-07:00

Does it count if I didn't actually get dressed til 2:30 in the afternoon???

I started the morning with a goal: Get entire front yard weeded, mowed, edged and hosed off. Because of this goal, I chose to put on some gray yoga pants and a grungy old white t shirt. I worked in the front yard from 9am - 2 pm, stopping only from 11-11:30 to feed the kids lunch! My hands are in need of a manicure, I was bitten by more ants than I can count, and since our edger is broken, I trimmed the entire lawn with scissors!!! (what? it works!)

So at 2:30, I decided to shower and get dressed for the day- for real this time! I chose something similar, but not as nice as the picture below. I did my hair, but ended up pulling it back anyway, (Thats what you do in the summertime, right?) and I also did my make-up.

I felt great when I went to my friend's house at 4, and I felt even better looking nice when Rob got home from work. I should get dressed more often!

To Do Tuesday

2009-06-09T11:14:00.000-07:00

I know I am not the only one who has an ever-growing to-do list! It seems like every time I get 1 thing crossed off, 2 more chores appear just smiling at me like it is a funny joke! Today I looked at my list and picked one thing to do... work on my preschool room!

I just moved my preschool back to my house from having it at my aunts house all year long, and I have my work cut out for me. This is not going to be an easy move- I plain and simply have too much stuff!

But today I made a big dent in the process- I finished moving everything to my house and arranged all the furniture, cubbies and supplies excatly how I want it!

All that is left for me to do is make things cute- hang the posters, put the kids names of cubbies and chairs etc.

It was actually a lot of fun! When everything is all done, I will post a picture!

Cross that one off my list!

Make Something Monday

2009-06-08T10:51:00.000-07:00

Today I took a tip from Becca and made some great teacher's gifts for Ethan's 2 Kindergarten teachers.

I hit WalMart and bought this stuff:

Beach Bag: $5

Towel: $7

Magazine: $2.50

Sunscreen: $2

Trail Mix: $1.50

Bottled Water: Free from our pantry

I put it all together....

...and made 2 great summer totes ready to be used at the pool!

Ethan had so much fun giving them to each teacher and that excitement was priceless!

Investing in a Lifetime!

2009-06-08T08:05:00.000-07:00

My best friend Holly has a sweet little girl, Ojaio, who is living with Cystic Fibrosis. Holly and her husband have dedicated their lives to finding a cure for this devastating disease and definitely cannot do it alone. I am sharing the following email from Holly with anyone who is interested in Hope for Ojaio. Thanks for reading...

Dear Friends and Family,
By now you have probably heard Justin or I explain, "It's all we know," when asked about raising a child with Cystic Fibrosis. This past year we have begun to truly feel this way. The daily regimen of treatments and medications in which we were at one point bombarded with now feel normal, like changing a diaper, or giving a bath. Ojaio is as healthy as any other three year old. While we are always living with CF, these days, we have been able to focus more on living.

From the heart of someone surrounded by Ojaio's love everyday, let me tell you a little bit about her spirit. Ojaio is determined, loving, dramatic, independent, funny and extremely intelligent. The first time we played the memory game, she won. Ojaio is dainty, and at times prissy, but very strong. Sometimes she amazes us with her grip, or by the things she can lift over her head. She prefers hopping, skipping and tip-toeing to walking, she can shake her booty and carry a tune. Ojaio is special. She makes friends with everyone she meets, she knows how to be cute, and she eats up attention.

Some of Ojaio's favorites are books, chocolate, our dog Oka, and her cousin Rhianna. She is athletic, and interested in soccer balls, fishing and bicycles, yet equally enamored by dress up, nail polish, and anything in the color pink. She sings, she dances, she giggles. She is hugs, she is cuddles, she is kisses. Ojaio is love.

Though we have become used to it, living with Cystic Fibrosis and keeping up with all it entails is a full-time job. Throughout the day Ojaio takes seven different medications multiple times. When she is healthy she does two half-hour breathing treatments each day, and when she is sick, this doubles. When things are going well, we see the CF team every two months. Ojaio has five doctors, a dietitian, a nurse case manager, two respiratory technicians, a physical therapist, and a social worker. This is what it takes to keep Ojaio alive.

For Justin and I, parenting is more than providing shelter, ensuring proper growth and love. It also means investing in new therapies, and a cure for Cystic Fibrosis. I truly believe we will find a cure in Ojaio's lifetime, but only money will make that possible. Drug companies and the government will not invest in CF, because it is not profitable -- only 30,000 Americans suffer from this disease. It is up to us to give our kids a long life.

Cystic Fibrosis is the number one genetic killer of Children in the US. While the median age of survival is 37, as hard as we try, sometimes it doesn't matter. CF does not discriminate. More than 60% of kids with CF won't make it to adulthood. My cousin Megan lost her precious son Liam to CF as an infant. Just last month, an eight year old lost her life to this disease. We CANNOT let this happen to our Ojaio.

Times are tough, but please give what you can. Five bucks will bring us that much closer to a cure. Any amount is appreciated.

After you give, please send this to your friends and family. Justin and I need the world to know how special Ojaio is, how much we need her in it. Thank you.

To make a donation, please visit http://www.cff.org/Great_Strides/HollyReynolds

Words cannot express our gratitude. Thank you so much,

Holly, Justin and Ojaio

Fun Friday

2009-06-05T15:47:00.000-07:00

Heres what we did! We had a blast... minus the part about Leah almost drowning!

Thankful Thursday

2009-06-04T13:41:00.000-07:00

Too many blessings to list! Here is a collage instead!

Write-It Wednesday

2009-06-03T09:08:00.000-07:00

Today I sent my dad an email just to thank him for all he does for our family. He is one of the hardest workers I know! He is a fantastic grandpa, he is fun to be around and he is a great friend. I hope the email makes him smile and feel appreciated. I love my dad!!!

Trash-It Tuesday

2009-06-02T08:42:00.000-07:00

I had a great time with yesterday's challenge! I got rid of so much stuff, it feels great!

Instead of only tossing 20 items, I filled 2 trash bins. (Granted one was pretty much mail that accumulted in the 2 weeks we were gone, but at least that pile is off my desk now!)

I have 1/2 my garage now full of stuff to donate- I think I may just do a garage sale and try to make a few bucks. I would literally sell things for pennies, just to have it gone! If I totally commit to having a garage sale, it will make me even more determined to go through my clutter and find more to get rid of- and that sounds kinda fun to me!

Am I the only one who feels like decluttering is a sort of drug? I love the feeling!

The Enchilada Scale

2009-06-01T23:42:00.000-07:00

You might notice in some of my recipe posts that I make mention of an "Enchilada Scale." The meaning behind that term is this:

My husband's all time favorite thing to eat that I make are enchiladas. Whenever I would try a new recipe, I would ask him how he liked it and I usually got an answer that went something like this: "Its fine, but I like enchiladas better."

In an effort to find something else the guy went nuts for, I started asking him how each meal compared to enchiladas. I would say, "Ok, 10 being enchiladas, what number is this meal?" And he would then reply, "an 8 or 9".

That simple answer was all I needed to know if the new recipe was worth keeping! I obviously knew nothing was going to satisfy him the way enchiladas did, but him telling me how close or far from satisfaction he was was exactly the answer I needed.

So the enchilada scale continues to be brought up at nearly every meal in our home and I am bringing it to you through this blog as my way of rating the recipes I post here.

Now that you're in on the lingo around here, start testing these recipes for yourself and let me know what number you rate them on the now famous Enchilada Scale.

2 Week Menu

2009-06-01T13:21:00.001-07:00

Now that my vacations are over, I actually have to cook again! Darn it!

Nothing fancy on the menu, but hopefully it will spark an interest here or there and give you all an idea or 2! Click on the link to see the recipes...

Mexican Monday:
Cheesy Chicken Quesadillas
BBQ Burritos

Take-Out Tuesday:
Turkey Stromboli
Meatball Sandwiches

What's New Wednesday:
Caesar Pockets
Angel Chicken

3-Second Thursday:
Lettuce Wraps
Tortillini

Favorite Friday:
Meatloaf
Hamburgers

Sunrise Saturday:
(Nothing this week- Rob will be gone so I don't have to cook!)
Breakfast Burritos

Salad Sunday:
(Nothing this week- Rob will be gone so I don't have to cook!)
Crunchy Chicken Salad

2009-05-26T08:22:00.000-07:00

I am back from my fantastic vacation and currently busy "bettering my home" by doing my least favorite vacation chore- UNPACKING!

I never unpack my luggage- it is a bad habit of mine, but I hate it that much. I seriously start to unpack only when I need my suitcase again- it could be weeks or months before I am done unpacking from a trip. I know, call me lazy- I can handle the insults.

Anyway, today I have already finished most of the unpacking! But before you cheer for me, just know I actually am doing it because I leave for another vacation tomorrow! Once again, unpacking only because I need my suitcase! But hey, its getting done, right?

Crunch Time- Picking up, Packing and other Preparations!

2009-05-15T07:46:00.001-07:00

I leave tomorrow at 8:30am for our cruise and I couldn't be more excited! With that said, I am getting anxious and also overwhelmed at all that needs to be done before I leave. I am super OCD when it comes to preparations for vacation: my house has to be spotless so I come home to a clean house and every last sock from my laundry pile has to be cleaned, folded and put away before I even start packing so that when I do pack, I know all my options.

I definitely have my work cut out for me! Needless to say this will be my last post for over a week, but I will continue my "home improvement" when I return. Good luck to the rest of you doing this challenge- keep up the good work! Until next time...

Sweet Correspondence

2009-05-14T07:45:00.000-07:00

Today I dove back into a project that I haven't touched in months! I am compiling a book of all the letters Rob and I wrote to each other while dating- the 2 years he was gone on his mission and the 2 years he was at BYU without me. I am typing each letter in My Publisher and when I am finished, I will have a great book that is probably better than any journal I kept during that time. I moved all of our letters out of the garage last year and since then they have been sitting in boxes and bags in our loft closet. They are taking up space and just look messy, so today I got busy organizing them again and it doesn't look like clutter anymore!

Professor Plum, with the Lead Pipe in the LIBRARY!

2009-05-13T07:52:00.000-07:00

Let me preface this post by saying I think having a nursery in your house is cute, but a total waste of space! Ever since Ethan was born, we have had a nursery in our home and I love to decorate it and it is exciting when there is a new baby coming, but the practicality of it all is something I have a hard time with! Especially now that Ryan is older, he basically just sleeps in there- the room is used a couple hours during the day and then all night. The remainder of the day it is a total useless room. The plan is for Ryan to move into Ethan's room when he is a little older, and maybe knowing that has me anxious on changing the nursery all together! I don't know...

So, I decided to make it more useful! I moved some of our loft furniture into the nursery and I love how it looks! We now call it our "Library" and it is so nice and cozy! Me and the kids love reading books in here! I just need to hang some pictures on the wall and it will be done! And the best part of it all is now I have a ton of room in our loft which is going to be perfect to use as my preschool room in the Fall! I will take pictures of that when it is all set up. For now, enjoy these pictures my new favorite room of the house!

Skeletons in My Closet aka "Clothes I have had Since High School!"

2009-05-12T09:13:00.000-07:00

I LOVE LOVE LOVE Cleaning my closet! LOVE IT!

It just feels so great to get rid of clothes that you have been hanging on to for no reason, other than it makes you look like you have more clothes!

I have some things in my closet I haven't worn forever- it may not fit right,but maybe someday it will fit again. It may not be in fashion, but maybe someday it will come back around (ie Overalls!) Whatever the reason is, I am guilty of hanging onto things that I never wear!

BUT- I go through my closet almost monthly and toss at least a pile of items every time I do this. My closet is shrinking faster than it is growing now a days, but that is ok with me! Getting rid of clutter, clothes and crap is like my heroine! (Like I know what that feels like!)

My sister loves when I do this, as she is the first to go through my unwanted items. The rest are donated and never to be seen by me again! I love it!

Anyway, I went through my closet again and got rid of these old "beauties". This pile actually grew a little when I folded laundry too. I was still in "junk mode" and decided I would rather toss it than fold it!

I should've taken a picture of my closet, but oh well. Maybe next month...

Socks Anyone?!?

2009-05-11T09:48:00.000-07:00

Today I folded socks- lots of socks.

This was about 2 months worth of socks that have been cycling through the laundry- worn, washed and dried over and over, but never folded.

This should help omit the digging through piles of clean clothes looking for a matching pair at least for a little while!

Did I even make a dent?!?

2009-05-08T14:23:00.000-07:00

This morning I decided to tackle my absolute least favorite chore in the house...

LAUNDRY!

I stripped my bed and washed the sheets (going to bed tonight is going to feel so nice!) , I washed 1 dark load and 1 white load, hung a whole basket of mine and Rob's clothes that needed to be hung and folded a whole basket of the kids clothes.

It felt good to just focus and get it done, but when it was time to pick up Ethan from school, I looked over my still over-flowing mounds of laundry and wondered if I would ever be able to finish this daunting tast! I still have about 2 loads to wash and probably 6 or 7 loads to fold (no, I am not kidding!)

And this is why I hate laundry so much- it is NEVER done!!!

I vote to make a new rule that all kids and husbands have to wear the same thing all week long. All those is favor???

My Workspace can now be used as a workspace!

2009-05-07T09:22:00.000-07:00

This morning I cleaned out our kitchen desk area. This is the catch-all for everything! It is easy to dump the armload of stuff you bring in, it is easy to empty your pockets, backpack and your purse here... anything and everything lands here!

Before:

After:

***Edited to add that the inside is fantastically clean too! I emptied out the whole left side and had a whole counter full of items to donate! The right side is Rob's side, so I couldnt get rid of anything, but I did organize as best as I could and it looks a million times better! Thanks for mentioning that, Ema!***

Even if Nobody Else Sees It...

2009-05-06T09:10:00.000-07:00

...the tops of my cupboards are so stinkin' clean, I think I am going to serve dinner up there tonight!

Thats right- I dusted and sanitized the tops of my kitchen cupboards- something I have never done in this house, so it was 3 years overdue and very much needed!

First I used a wet kitchen sponge and wiped the dust off. It looked pretty good, but while I was up there, I thought I would go the extra mile and use my Clorox Kitchen Wipes to give it a good wipe down. That left the space shiny and smelling so good.

People might look at me and wonder why I am smiling as I look up at my cupboards. If they could only see it for themselves...

Diving Right In!!!

2009-05-05T17:26:00.000-07:00

Today I hit the ground running and decided to declutter my kitchen cupboards!

The space above my cupboards is going to be the death of me! I have lived in this house for almost 4 years, I change it around every 6 months or so, and I have yet to even like what I have done. It either looks too cluttered or too bare. I most receintly decided to make it the home of some of my "entertaining pieces" ... unfortunately when I have people over I use those pieces it never looks good when company is over. Today I decided I needed to find a space for all those items inside my cupboards. Also, I hate things on the counter. It looks cluttered and attracts dust. I have a bazillion cutting boards in a rack (I love cutting boards!) and I also had my toaster oven on the counter that I really wanted to hide.

So here is the way it looked before:

...and here it is after!

No more cutting boards or toaster oven, and above my cupboards is bare (again!) I still don't love the look up there, but I put it back to how it was when I first moved in and I am pretty much starting over or giving up! (Maybe that could be another project for another day this month...)

My cutting boards are now in this drawer...

...and my toaster oven is in a new spot with all my other small appliances! This cupboard before had a modge podge of mixing bowls, mixers, blenders, collanders... it was definately in need of reorganization!

Here is my mixing bowl/ casserole pan cupboard. It was organized at one time, but you know how it is when you unload the dishwasher in a hurry- things just get shoved places!

Before:

After:

I cleaned out above my oven and it is now completely empty! It is a nice, deep cupboard that will be fantastic to use for some food storage! (That is another goal of mine- find more room to store that stuff!!!)

I think one of my favorite things about this reorganization was that I found my missing rice cooker!!! It was above the oven, pushed waaaayyyy back there and it has been missing since we moved in. I almost bought another one this month because I thought we must have lost it in the move! It too is with my other small appliances, just hanging out in its new home! Welcome back!

So look at this-

This is the pile of "Stuff" I gathered to get rid of. Its all things I was saving for who knows why, and I must say, it feels nice not to have it anymore! I was holding on to this wok that I got at our wedding that I think I used 2 times in almost 8 years- I had a plethera of missed-matched tupperware, too many plastic pitchers to count, lids for bowls I NEVER useds, so many "cool" kitchen gadgets that didn't make my life easier as they promised to do... and the list goes on and on. Goodbye unwanted mass of junk!

So that does it for day 2. My house looks better already!

First Things First...

2009-05-04T20:08:00.000-07:00

...Fixin' the Old Computer

Today the improvement on my home involved a 40 minute drive to Queen Creek where I then handed over my (stupid) computer to my fantastic, fix-everthing uncle. He is working on it as we speak and I am hoping my home will be a happier place when our computer is feeling better. Computers cant catch the swine flu, right?

May 2009 Challenge

2009-05-04T09:57:00.001-07:00

Home Improvement

Every week day this month, do something to better your home!

Some ideas could be:

- Organize and de-clutter something: a drawer, cupboard, closet, pantry, make-up bag etc.

- Touch up those dings in your walls with some touch-up paint

- Hang some pictures

- Re-arrange your furniture

- Give a good deep clean to something you don't get to regularly

- Re-decorate a room

- Wash those "decoration only" towels hanging in your bathroom

- Dust your ceiling fans, light fixtures and blinds

- Give a good scrub to those hard to reach places- behind your toilet, the corners or your grout, baseboards etc.

-Wash and polish your door knobs (who ever does that?!)

- Clean out your closet and donate unused clothing

... that was just the list I made in literally 2 minutes. If I had another 5 minutes, I could think of a ton more!

This doesnt have to be a huge "Home Rennovation", just keep it simple and you will feel great!

So who is in?!?!?

Day 22

2009-05-01T09:18:00.000-07:00

Today is the last day of April, meaning the last day of our "Get Creative Challenge!"

I decided today to post my menu for the next week for all of you who are interested. Click on the link to view the recipes.

Most of the photos are courtesy of Google images or the recipe site I got the recipe from.

Enjoy!

Mexican Monday- Taco Salad Toastada

Take-Out Tuesday- Ceasar Pita Calzones

Whats New Wednesday- Creamed Chicken and Biscuits

Three-Second Thursday- Chicken Chili (we didnt get around to making this 2 weeks ago, so I still have all the ingredients!)

Favorite Friday- Raspberry Chipotle Chicken with Cranberry Spinach Salad

Sunrise Saturday-Monte Cristo Sandwiches

Salad Sunday- Crunchy Asian Salad

Day 21

2009-04-29T08:36:00.000-07:00

Treating Myself Day

...because I deserve it!

Tonight I decided to treat myself to an Orange Sunrise Smoothie from Jack in the Box. If you havent tried these, I suggest you give it a try. It's like a smoother Orange Julius- its fantastic! I want one right now actually.

Day 20

2009-04-28T08:15:00.000-07:00

Crafting with the Kiddos!

Day 19

2009-04-27T08:02:00.000-07:00

So today my creative-ness was put to work as a favor for my MIL. She needs 20 purple beaded bracelets by Sunday for an Integrity Handout in Young Womens. At first I didnt think I would have the time to make them all and overnight them, since I would still have to go to the store and buy the supplies, but then I got out my bead box and lo and behold I had plenty of supplies! (See what happens when you go through "craft phases"- you end up with all these supplies you put away and forget you even had. It is a sickness, really.)

Day 18

2009-04-24T11:49:00.000-07:00

Today I learned a great, NEW cleaning tip!

So what do you do when this:

becomes this:

one big, spilled, waxy layer mess on your walls and carpet?
(and this picture was taken 1/2 way thru the clean-up process, so imagine it twice as bad!)

Well, first you get a kitchen sponge and then laugh at yourself for even thinking the wax would "wipe up".

Then you start scraping your fingernails along the wall. You grab a kitchen scraper and even a plastic fork and start scraping the wall and realize textured walls absolutely suck! Then, you are handed a lighter (from your husband) and try melting the wax off the wall without burning the wall, and hope the carpet doesnt catch fire- and to think this very month I am teaching my preschoolers about fire safety! HA!

When all that fails, you head to the computer and find this fabulous idea on ehow.com- my new favorite site!

Items Needed:

Paper Lunch Bags

Iron

All you do is place the bag over the spilled wax, turn the iron onto the lowest setting and begin to "iron" the bag. Keep it moving and in just seconds, the wax begins to be adsorbed by the paper bag! It worked for the carpet and the wall and it took no time at all! It was amazing to watch and it kept me and Leah entertained and amused the entire time. Apparently it works for all surfaces and fabrics! Sweet!

(K, thanks Rob for the GREAT picture of me- and no, my iron wasn't burned during this, it has been that way forever!)

From this, I leaned:

1. Ehow.com is fantastic

2. Keep your wax burner off the carpet

3. I am a little obsessed with innovative ways to clean, it might become a problem!

Did anyone else not know this or was it just news to me?

Day 17

2009-04-23T15:45:00.000-07:00

Running with a new idea today. Why? Because my life isn't busy enough already! lol

Anyway, I have been wanting to go public with my own "Home Orgnaization" plan ever since I tried out FlyLady years ago and got too overwhelmed.

My plan? Set a simple routine for cooking, cleaning and home organization that is easy enough for everyone to follow. Hopefully this will take off and land me on the Oprah show someday on the show "Moms who Made Millions" :) Then Rob can retire and we can travel all over the world. I guess I set my goals high, wouldn't you say?

Here is the site I set up today. Definitely a work in progress, but it will be fun to perfect!

Day 16

2009-04-22T10:17:00.000-07:00

Day 16: Learning Something NEW- Posting a Video on your blog

How easy was this!? Just like posting a picture, but click the icon to the right of the picture icon. Choose your file, hit "upload" and in the time it takes you to pick up your 6 year old from school and get back to the computer, your video is ready! (K, so I am not exactly sure how long it took to upload, but it couldn't have been too long!

Here is the first video I have ever posted on a blog! Hopefully it works!

"Leah's Got Rock Moves"

Day 15

2009-04-21T09:14:00.000-07:00

Baking. My something creative for the day. Baking. I am SO NOT A BAKER. I decided this long ago, but I was reminded about it again today. I am not a baker. I don't know why, because I love to cook, but me and baking for some reason don't mesh well. Maybe because you have to measure stuff. When I cook, I don't usually measure. Maybe because baking just seems so much easier (and cheaper) if it comes from Betty Crocker of Pillsbury. I know it always tastes better homemade, but I am still trying to decide if it is worth the effort. Rob is buying me a nice mixer as soon as I decide which one I want, but I am starting to wonder if it will ever get used. Maybe he should save his money, or buy me clothes or something. Hmmmm. Now thats a thought.

Anyway, today I made this recipe from Ema. It has gotten great reviews from everyone who has tried it. Even Rob, who is not a sweet eater, absolutely loved these cookies today when they were finished. He had like 3 or 4. Usually he will have a bite of mine and call it good. My opinion of them was that they tasted a bit salty for some reason, and it might be because my baking soda was expired! (oops!) lol.

Anyway, this recipe makes a ton! I still have a bowl of dough in my fridge that doesnt have a dent in it, and that is after making 3 dozen for a scout activity tonight- by the way, everyone loved these cookies at scouts too- no one said they were too salty, even when I asked! Maybe I am just being over critical?

So here is the recipe:

Famous Chocolate Chip Cookies

1 1/2 c. sugar
2 c. brown sugar
1 lb butter (yep, a whole pound!)
3 eggs
1 1/2 tsp salt
1 1/2 tsp baking soda
2 tblsp vanilla
6 c. flour
5 c. chocolate chips
2 c. chopped nuts (optional)

Cream together sugar, brown sugar, butter, and eggs. Then add the rest of the ingredients. Make dough balls and put on cookie sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes.

For Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies, decrease flour to 5 1/2 c. and add 2 1/2 c. oatmeal and 1-2 cups of raisins. Slightly mash before cooking.

Ryan loved them too! (Of course he did!)

Day 14

2009-04-20T09:44:00.000-07:00

Today I had fun making new blog headings for my private blog and the family blog I never update!

Day 13

2009-04-17T19:21:00.000-07:00

Adding on to yesterday's post, here is my menu for next week. Click on the links to view the recipes.

And I am not taking all the credit for some of these yummy pictures! With the help of google images, I was able to illustrate some pretty appetizing meals!

Mexican Monday: Chicken Tacos
Take-Out Tuesday: French Bread Pizza
What's New Wednesday: Teriyaki Chicken
Three-Second Thursday: Chicken Chili
Favorite Friday: Meatloaf Muffins
Sunrise Saturday: French Toast
Salad Sunday: Broccoli Salad

Day 12

2009-04-16T18:10:00.000-07:00

Today I re-created the way I do my menu planning. I creatively named each night of the week so that when it comes to picking meals for the week, I can make sure i have variety and hopefully save some time thumbing through my recipes. Here is what I came up with:

Mexican Monday: My family is a big lover of all things Spanish style!
Take-Out Tuesday: Not necessarily meaning we will order out...although I must admit this day was strategically planned to coincide with 35 cent wing night at Native New Yorker! (Love those!) This night is one of the busiest nights of the week for us, so if I want to pull the "Honey, lets order out" card, I can do it, but also it means we can make meals that are "Take Out Foods." For example, my family loves pizza, but we make it more than we order it. I love a good pizza idea- French Bread Pizza, Bagel Pizzas etc- but even a frozen Freschetta would do well on Take Out Tuesday. It can also be a night where Rob grills some burgers- not quite McDonalds Take Out, but much better tasting, healthier, and still I dont have to cook!
What's New Wednesday: I love trying new recipes and try to do at least one every week. Here is where I will experiment with some of the recipes I have been wanting to try.
Three-Second Thursday: We need a night each week where we allow ourselves to lay low and go easy. I am a sucker for something that takes little time to prep and cook, things you can throw in a crockpot that morning when you have energy that magically appear all ready to be eaten after you battle with the kids all day. Thursdays are the days I decided to cook those easy, quick "Set it and Forget it" meals.
Favorite Friday: Every family has their favorites, so why not treat each other to a good meal at the end of a long week!?
Sunrise Saturday: Eating what you would typically consider "Breakfast Foods" at dinner time.
Salad Sunday: I am lucky- we go to my mom's house every Sunday and she cooks the main course while I bring a salad. I try to mix it up a bit and get more creative than a fresh garden salad... though I will be the first to admit I often bring a bag of "Fresh Express" with a bottle of Ranch and call it good.

So this planning took me so long to do that I decided to finish my menu for the week and do my grocery shopping tomorrow. Goodnight!

Day 11

2009-04-15T12:55:00.000-07:00

Good, Clean FUN!

Day 10

2009-04-14T09:09:00.000-07:00

I found a little extra time this morning to work on my bow blog. I am getting happier and happier with the way it looks, though not totally satisfied just yet. I made a cute horizontal navigation bar that took me sometime to get the sizing right, and it still looks a bit big, but for now it will have to do!

Now I just need to get my bows pictured and put on there- that's the point of the site, right? It will all be ready to go someday....

Here is my blog.

And here is the site I found that has great tutorials on giving your own blog an update. Give it a try if you have a few extra days laying around. It can be addicting!

I, along with the majority of the world, also like The Cutest Blog On the Block for a quick facelift. It's easy to do, and best of all its FREE! Check them out if you haven't already. I think they were at one time the most popular free blog design company, but now there are sooooo many! I also like:
Delightful Dots
Aqua Poppy Designs
LeeLou
Shabby Blogs

And I have found useful things on Blogging With Success. The had a tutorial or 2 that answered some questions I had at one time.

If you want a totally different look, try these 3 sites (which also link up to a bazillion different sites too!) You can download a whole bunch of templates, instead of just changing the paper background, and again- all for free.
Ipietoon
Delux Templates
Our Blog Templates

Happy blogging everyone!

Day 9

2009-04-13T15:16:00.000-07:00

Today I brought the kids into the kitchen and we colored Easter Eggs!

A day late, I know, I know, but we ran out of time to do it this weekend, so I saved it for an "After School & Homework Activity" and it was fantastic! The kids had a blast and everyone was happy for 20 minutes, imagine that!!! Now we have hard-boiled eggs to make egg salad sandwiches for the rest of the week! Yum!

Ethan putting in the eggs into the dye

Leah already well into the decorating process

Leah's finished products

Trying to make it look like an egg is coming out of his ear- silly boy.

Oh, Ryan was there too, but he was enjoying the activity from his booster seat while stuffing his face... and he couldn't be happier!

Day 8

2009-04-10T22:01:00.000-07:00

Today was a great day of cleaning and organization! I cleaned out all 3 kids rooms and closets and gathered 2 big boxes of items to donate to D.I.! This is the third time in just a couple months I have done this, and it is amazing how much stuff I can get rid of and how great I feel after doing so! I have at least a whole carload of items to bring to the bin in the church parking lot tomorrow!

Ethan even got in on the action today and was having a blast dumping all his unwanted toys- never thought I would see the day that would happen, but he was totally into it! He kept saying how easy it would be to clean his room with all these toys gone- boy I hope he is right!

Anyway, it is always a great feeling coming home to a clean house, so I am feeling pretty good tonight!

Have a good weekend!

Day 7

2009-04-09T17:03:00.000-07:00

Today I got creative with some photo editing!

After this week's Biggest Loser, I really can't stand Ron! I didn't like him after the second or third week, and he has just gone downhill in my book from there! Last night convinced me that the show was totally rigged. I think the weigh in is rigged and the producers definitely use some creative editing! Hearing Sione and his wife fill me in on other "non-aired" details, I just can't believe anything they portray from any character anymore. They made him and Filipe look so bad and let Ron "The Godfather" come out looking triumphant!

They didn't highlight the part from the week before when Filipe was below the yellow line and Ron was trying to get Filipe out. THATS THE REASON THEY TURNED ON HIM IN THE LAST SHOW- Ron made the first move of betrayal!!! And the reason Jilian wouldn't work out Filipe in the Gym was because he refused to drink a cup of coffee before each workout like she demanded each of her teammates to do. None of that was shown! It make me sick! I will never watch this show after this season again!

Anyway, so my creative-ness was to pok a little fun at Ron, my least favorite contestant.

His nickname around here is "Triple Tit" (sorry if that is too vulgar, its just what we say!) Can you tell what I did to this photo? Its kinda small...

If that one was obvious enough, here it is blown up:

And lastly, I think since his last operation didn't work, he needs to go in for one more and change completely. Here is what I think he might come out looking like. Notice he hasnt lost any of his weight...

Ron I hope you "drop dead and die"(.... his words, not mine.)

Happy Thursday everyone!!! :)

Day 6

2009-04-08T18:59:00.001-07:00

I did 3 new things today, all with the kiddos!

First off, I took Ethan and Leah to Dairy Queen for dipped cones after the Dentist! No cavities and creamy soft-serve covered in chocolate goodness. The kids had fun and I had a reason to snack on some high calories! We will definitely be doing this again and could perhaps make it a tradition. (Except it might have to be an "Every Friday" tradition rather than every 6 months after the Dentist- I don't know that I can go too long in between sweet treats from the DQ.)

Secondly, we got a little creative with some song and dance time this evening. Leah wanted a microphone like Hannah Montana, so we grabbed my 3lb weights, which are metal, unscrewed one end and ta-da! An instant microphone!

And lastly, I played baseball with Ethan in the yard today and we made our own bases from plants in the front yard and we got pretty creative with the rules so that 1 on 1 worked for us.

Today was a good day...

Day 5

2009-04-07T20:53:00.000-07:00

Today I used the "Get Creative Challenge" and made it more personal. The picture above is my inspiration.

I took the next step to getting fit, and I am now working out 2x's a week with a guy in our ward who has decided to kick my butt and get me in shape! (Not that even if I lost 25lbs I would ever look that great in a bikini, but I am sure going to try!) We have a cruise coming up next month that I have to be a little less flabby for!

My hopes is that I can go from this:

(I am the one on the end! What? At least my skimpy bottoms are covered!) He he

To this!

I worked out with Marc once last week, but today was the day I committed to do it twice a week from here on out.

Oh, and I am dragging Rob with me! We are going to be the hottest couple on the cruise!!!

Day 4

2009-04-06T19:50:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is our monthly pack meeting for Boy Scouts and all month long I have been racking my brain trying to figure out a cute and practical way to display what the boys have completed. Today a great idea finally hit me! Paper Bag Scrapbooks!!!

I got a paper bag for every month from January (when I was called to be their leader) until now. I kept the decorating simple- basically just titled it by month and typed a sentence or two of what we worked on during that month. I added some pictures I took at each activity and then I laminated the entire bag.

I cut a small strip of the laminated bag off from the side of the bag that opens to create "pockets" where I put all the papers and projects that were completed during the month.

Lastly, I punched 2- 3/4 inch circles along the side and tied with ribbon to bind it all together.

I want them to create their own cover, so that will go on top of it all next month. My plan for this scrapbook is for the boys to add to it each month and display it again and again at each pack meeting until it is fully complete with all 12 months and they can take it with them when they advance in scouting. I think this scrapbook will be a nice keepsake that’s easy to store if they decide to keep it for a long time.

So there it is. Easy, fun, and practical!

Day 3

2009-04-03T16:20:00.001-07:00

Since this is my "happy blog", I won't mention my current stress and discouragement of 6 homework assignments, 3 discussion board responses, 1 quiz and 1 test (which I failed) all due by midnight tonight . Instead, I will let you all know how I am escaping this stress for my "Get Creative" Day #3. There really isn't much creativity involved, but it will be enriching, and that counts, right? In 1 hour I am leaving all my homework (done or not) and I am going out with some girlfriends to a movie. Thats right, I don't care if it gets done or not, I have had enough stressing over this and I am doing myself the favor of leaving it all behind for a few hours. If I get back tonight and feel like completing it, maybe I will. But for now, I am so done. Done. Done. Done. Whew. I am smiling already!

First Blog Tutorial

2009-04-02T13:36:00.001-07:00

Today I made my first ever Blog Tutorial. I have a new respect for those of you who do this all the time! It took me forever!

First of all, I hate uploading pictures onto my computer, so to make sure I had every picture I needed so I would only have to upload once what stress in and of itself! Also, I decided I am too much of a perfectionist (duh!) because I played around with spacing of it all to make it look "just right" for over an hour!

I really like blog tutorials, and I have learned to make quite a few things from creative people's blogs, but documenting the tutorial is a lot of work!

If you have a great tutorial, send me the link in your comment. I would love to highlight it on my sidebar- You deserve the credit for putting in the time!

See my first tutorial HERE

New Blog, New Game, and Crafts

2009-04-01T13:52:00.000-07:00

Today, I stretched my creativity by:

-1. Setting up this new fantastic blog!

-2. Playing a new Shrek Matching Game with Ryan and Leah- One I have never before played!

- Cleaning out my craft stuff (I have WAY too much stuff!)

Before
(Unfortunately, my craft desk is at the top of the stairs and often serves as a catch all for misc items!)

After
Time to start creating! Oh, and I found $9 in all this maddness!!! I love finding money!

-3. Making some bows. wipee cases and ribbon boards for the boutique this weekend

(Obviously not all these bows were made today!)
Day one done and feeling great!!!

April Challenge Journal

2009-04-01T07:50:00.000-07:00

Day 22

Today is the last day of April, meaning the last day of our "Get Creative Challenge!"

Treating Myself Day

...because I deserve it!

Day 20

Crafting with the Kiddos!

Today I went to Wal Mart on a "date" with Ethan (which in itself was something fun to blog about!) and we picked a craft for the all of us to do this afternoon- painting those plastic sun catchers. A whole set of 18 catchers with the stain and brush was only $4.97!

I bought an extra pack of stain ($1.99) because I wanted to avoid any arguments over paint between Ethan and Leah, but still, a great craft that the kids enjoyed for way less than $10- it was fantastic!

I love afternoons where we get to do something different and sit and have fun. My kids can be hilarious to talk to, and I enjoyed every minute of hearing their thoughts, seeing their excitment, and feeling their pride as they showed their dad their "creations" later that evening.

I took my own pictures, but they wont be posted until our computer gets fixed... whenever that will be!

Day 19

So today my creative-ness was put to work as a favor for my MIL. She needs 20 purple beaded bracelets by Sunday for an Integrity Handout in Young Womens. At first I didnt think I would have the time to make them all and overnight them, since I would still have to go to the store and buy the supplies, but then I got out my bead box and lo and behold I had plenty of supplies! (See what happens when you go through "craft phases"- you end up with all these supplies you put away and forget you even had. It is a sickness, really.)

Day 18

Today I learned a great, NEW cleaning tip!

So what do you do when this:

becomes this:

one big, spilled, waxy layer mess on your walls and carpet?
(and this picture was taken 1/2 way thru the clean-up process, so imagine it twice as bad!)

Well, first you get a kitchen sponge and then laugh at yourself for even thinking the wax would "wipe up".

When all that fails, you head to the computer and find this fabulous idea on ehow.com- my new favorite site!

Items Needed:

Paper Lunch Bags

Iron

(K, thanks Rob for the GREAT picture of me- and no, my iron wasn't burned during this, it has been that way forever!)

From this, I leaned:

1. Ehow.com is fantastic

2. Keep your wax burner off the carpet

3. I am a little obsessed with innovative ways to clean, it might become a problem!

Did anyone else not know this or was it just news to me?

Day 17

Running with a new idea today. Why? Because my life isn't busy enough already! lol

Anyway, I have been wanting to go public with my own "Home Orgnaization" plan ever since I tried out FlyLady years ago and got too overwhelmed.

My plan? Set a simple routine for cooking, cleaning and home organization that is easy enough for everyone to follow. Hopefully this will take off and land me on the Oprah show someday on the show "Moms who Made Millions" :) Then Rob can retire and we can travel all over the world. I guess I set my goals high, wouldn't you say?

Here is the site I set up today. Definitely a work in progress, but it will be fun to perfect!

Day 16

Learning Something NEW- Posting a Video on your blog

How easy was this!? Just like posting a picture, but click the icon to the right of the picture icon. Choose your file, hit "upload" and in the time it takes you to pick up your 6 year old from school and get back to the computer, your video is ready! (K, so I am not exactly sure how long it took to upload, but it couldn't have been too long!

Here is the first video I have ever posted on a blog! Hopefully it works!

"Leah's Got Rock Moves"

Day 15

Baking. My something creative for the day. Baking. I am SO NOT A BAKER. I decided this long ago, but I was reminded about it again today. I am not a baker. I don't know why, because I love to cook, but me and baking for some reason don't mesh well. Maybe because you have to measure stuff. When I cook, I don't usually measure. Maybe because baking just seems so much easier (and cheaper) if it comes from Betty Crocker of Pillsbury. I know it always tastes better homemade, but I am still trying to decide if it is worth the effort. Rob is buying me a nice mixer as soon as I decide which one I want, but I am starting to wonder if it will ever get used. Maybe he should save his money, or buy me clothes or something. Hmmmm. Now thats a thought.

Anyway, today I made this recipe from Ema. It has gotten great reviews from everyone who has tried it. Even Rob, who is not a sweet eater, absolutely loved these cookies today when they were finished. He had like 3 or 4. Usually he will have a bite of mine and call it good. My opinion of them was that they tasted a bit salty for some reason, and it might be because my baking soda was expired! (oops!) lol.

Anyway, this recipe makes a ton! I still have a bowl of dough in my fridge that doesnt have a dent in it, and that is after making 3 dozen for a scout activity tonight- by the way, everyone loved these cookies at scouts too- no one said they were too salty, even when I asked! Maybe I am just being over critical?

So here is the recipe:

Famous Chocolate Chip Cookies

Ryan loved them too! (Of course he did!)

Day 14

Today I had fun making new blog headings for my private blog and the family blog I never update!

Day 13

Adding on to yesterday's post, here is my menu for next week. Click on the links to view the recipes.

And I am not taking all the credit for some of these yummy pictures! With the help of google images, I was able to illustrate some pretty appetizing meals!

Mexican Monday: Chicken Tacos
Take-Out Tuesday: French Bread Pizza
What's New Wednesday: Teriyaki Chicken
Three-Second Thursday: Chicken Chili
Favorite Friday: Meatloaf Muffins
Sunrise Saturday: French Toast
Salad Sunday: Broccoli Salad

Day 12

Today I re-created the way I do my menu planning. I creatively named each night of the week so that when it comes to picking meals for the week, I can make sure i have variety and hopefully save some time thumbing through my recipes. Here is what I came up with:

Mexican Monday: My family is a big lover of all things Spanish style!
Take-Out Tuesday: Not necessarily meaning we will order out...although I must admit this day was strategically planned to coincide with 35 cent wing night at Native New Yorker! (Love those!) This night is one of the busiest nights of the week for us, so if I want to pull the "Honey, lets order out" card, I can do it, but also it means we can make meals that are "Take Out Foods." For example, my family loves pizza, but we make it more than we order it. I love a good pizza idea- French Bread Pizza, Bagel Pizzas etc- but even a frozen Freschetta would do well on Take Out Tuesday. It can also be a night where Rob grills some burgers- not quite McDonalds Take Out, but much better tasting, healthier, and still I dont have to cook!
What's New Wednesday: I love trying new recipes and try to do at least one every week. Here is where I will experiment with some of the recipes I have been wanting to try.
Three-Second Thursday: We need a night each week where we allow ourselves to lay low and go easy. I am a sucker for something that takes little time to prep and cook, things you can throw in a crockpot that morning when you have energy that magically appear all ready to be eaten after you battle with the kids all day. Thursdays are the days I decided to cook those easy, quick "Set it and Forget it" meals.
Favorite Friday: Every family has their favorites, so why not treat each other to a good meal at the end of a long week!?
Sunrise Saturday: Eating what you would typically consider "Breakfast Foods" at dinner time.
Salad Sunday: I am lucky- we go to my mom's house every Sunday and she cooks the main course while I bring a salad. I try to mix it up a bit and get more creative than a fresh garden salad... though I will be the first to admit I often bring a bag of "Fresh Express" with a bottle of Ranch and call it good.

So this planning took me so long to do that I decided to finish my menu for the week and do my grocery shopping tomorrow. Goodnight!

Day 11

Good, Clean FUN!

Creative Cleaning- Taking A Page Out of Becca's Book

Getting the kids to have fun while cleaning can be a chore in itself! Sometimes its just easier to bypass the whines and fits and clean up myself. Today I decided to try Becca's take on Creative Cleaning, and it was a great cleaning experience that didn't end in tears! Imagine that!

I gave each of the kids a baby wipe and told them there would be a prize for whoever came back to me with the dirtiest wipe! The kids were off- dusting the blinds, wiping the tile in the entry way, getting the fingerprints off the banister... and they were laughing while they were doing it! Surprisingly, Leah won! (She's my little clean freak!)

Then I took it a step further and went to the playroom. I told the kids we would all make our own pile of toys and whoever could make their pile the biggest would also get a prize. Ethan won this competition, and he was so happy about it.

Now, with 3 piles of toys sitting on the playroom floor, I issued one last challenge. I told the kids that whoever can have all the toys in their piles put into the toybox before I counted to 30 could go in the hottub after dinner. The race was on, and I didn't even have to slow down my counting- everything was put away in under 30 seconds!

At the end of it all, I had 2 happy kids, a clean house and one very happy momma!
Day 10

I found a little extra time this morning to work on my bow blog. I am getting happier and happier with the way it looks, though not totally satisfied just yet. I made a cute horizontal navigation bar that took me sometime to get the sizing right, and it still looks a bit big, but for now it will have to do!

Now I just need to get my bows pictured and put on there- that's the point of the site, right? It will all be ready to go someday....

Here is my blog.

And here is the site I found that has great tutorials on giving your own blog an update. Give it a try if you have a few extra days laying around. It can be addicting!

I, along with the majority of the world, also like The Cutest Blog On the Block for a quick facelift. It's easy to do, and best of all its FREE! Check them out if you haven't already. I think they were at one time the most popular free blog design company, but now there are sooooo many! I also like:
Delightful Dots
Aqua Poppy Designs
LeeLou
Shabby Blogs

And I have found useful things on Blogging With Success. The had a tutorial or 2 that answered some questions I had at one time.

If you want a totally different look, try these 3 sites (which also link up to a bazillion different sites too!) You can download a whole bunch of templates, instead of just changing the paper background, and again- all for free.
Ipietoon
Delux Templates
Our Blog Templates

Happy blogging everyone!

Day 9

Today I brought the kids into the kitchen and we colored Easter Eggs!

Ethan putting in the eggs into the dye

Leah already well into the decorating process

Leah's finished products

Trying to make it look like an egg is coming out of his ear- silly boy.

Oh, Ryan was there too, but he was enjoying the activity from his booster seat while stuffing his face... and he couldn't be happier!

Day 8

Today was a great day of cleaning and organization! I cleaned out all 3 kids rooms and closets and gathered 2 big boxes of items to donate to D.I.! This is the third time in just a couple months I have done this, and it is amazing how much stuff I can get rid of and how great I feel after doing so! I have at least a whole carload of items to bring to the bin in the church parking lot tomorrow!

Ethan even got in on the action today and was having a blast dumping all his unwanted toys- never thought I would see the day that would happen, but he was totally into it! He kept saying how easy it would be to clean his room with all these toys gone- boy I hope he is right!

Anyway, it is always a great feeling coming home to a clean house, so I am feeling pretty good tonight!

Have a good weekend!

Day 7

Today I got creative with some photo editing!

After this week's Biggest Loser, I really can't stand Ron! I didn't like him after the second or third week, and he has just gone downhill in my book from there! Last night convinced me that the show was totally rigged. I think the weigh in is rigged and the producers definitely use some creative editing! Hearing Sione and his wife fill me in on other "non-aired" details, I just can't believe anything they portray from any character anymore. They made him and Filipe look so bad and let Ron "The Godfather" come out looking triumphant!

They didn't highlight the part from the week before when Filipe was below the yellow line and Ron was trying to get Filipe out. THATS THE REASON THEY TURNED ON HIM IN THE LAST SHOW- Ron made the first move of betrayal!!! And the reason Jilian wouldn't work out Filipe in the Gym was because he refused to drink a cup of coffee before each workout like she demanded each of her teammates to do. None of that was shown! It make me sick! I will never watch this show after this season again!

Anyway, so my creative-ness was to pok a little fun at Ron, my least favorite contestant.

His nickname around here is "Triple Tit" (sorry if that is too vulgar, its just what we say!) Can you tell what I did to this photo? Its kinda small...

If that one was obvious enough, here it is blown up:

And lastly, I think since his last operation didn't work, he needs to go in for one more and change completely. Here is what I think he might come out looking like. Notice he hasnt lost any of his weight...

Ron I hope you "drop dead and die"(.... his words, not mine.)

Happy Thursday everyone!!! :)

Day 6

I did 3 new things today, all with the kiddos!

Today was a good day...

Day 5

Today I used the "Get Creative Challenge" and made it more personal. The picture above is my inspiration.

I took the next step to getting fit, and I am now working out 2x's a week with a guy in our ward who has decided to kick my butt and get me in shape! (Not that even if I lost 25lbs I would ever look that great in a bikini, but I am sure going to try!) We have a cruise coming up next month that I have to be a little less flabby for!

My hopes is that I can go from this:

(I am the one on the end! What? At least my skimpy bottoms are covered!) He he

To this!

I cut a small strip of the laminated bag off from the side of the bag that opens to create "pockets" where I put all the papers and projects that were completed during the month.

Lastly, I punched 2- 3/4 inch circles along the side and tied with ribbon to bind it all together.

So there it is. Easy, fun, and practical!

Day 3

Since this is my "happy blog", I won't mention my current stress and discouragement of 6 homework assignments, 3 discussion board responses, 1 quiz and 1 test (which I failed) all due by midnight tonight . Instead, I will let you all know how I am escaping this stress for my "Get Creative" Day #3. There really isn't much creativity involved, but it will be enriching, and that counts, right? In 1 hour I am leaving all my homework (done or not) and I am going out with some girlfriends to a movie. Thats right, I don't care if it gets done or not, I have had enough stressing over this and I am doing myself the favor of leaving it all behind for a few hours. If I get back tonight and feel like completing it, maybe I will. But for now, I am so done. Done. Done. Done. Whew. I am smiling already!

Day 2

Today I made my first ever Blog Tutorial. I have a new respect for those of you who do this all the time! It took me forever!

First of all, I hate uploading pictures onto my computer, so to make sure I had every picture I needed so I would only have to upload once what stress in and of itself! Also, I decided I am too much of a perfectionist (duh!) because I played around with spacing of it all to make it look "just right" for over an hour!

I really like blog tutorials, and I have learned to make quite a few things from creative people's blogs, but documenting the tutorial is a lot of work!

If you have a great tutorial, send me the link in your comment. I would love to highlight it on my sidebar- You deserve the credit for putting in the time!

See my first tutorial HERE

Day 1

Today, I stretched my creativity by:

-1. Setting up this new fantastic blog!

-2. Playing a new Shrek Matching Game with Ryan and Leah- One I have never before played!

3- Cleaning out my craft stuff (I have WAY too much stuff!)

Before
(Unfortunately, my craft desk is at the top of the stairs and often serves as a catch all for misc items!)

After
Time to start creating! Oh, and I found $9 in all this maddness!!! I love finding money!

-4. Making some bows. wipee cases and ribbon boards for the boutique this weekend

(Obviously not all these bows were made today!)

Day one done and feeling great!!!

April 2009 Challenge

2009-03-31T10:07:00.000-07:00

Get Creative

Each weekday this month, stretch your creativity and do something new! This doesn't mean you have to craft everyday! It may be a new fun game with the kids or a creative meal or project. It is an excuse to motivate and make memories! I will be sharing my adventures here and would love to hear what you are doing to stir up your creative juices. Leave a comment and a link to your blog so I can check it out and be inspired my you! Here are a few ideas to get us all motivated!

indoor picnic
photo shop picture editing
redecorate/rearrange a room
paint a picture
journal for yourself and kids
try a new recipe
create a schedule
redesign your blog
knit a hat
create a slide show
have a photo session with the family
send a note on home made cards
sew
refinish a piece of furniture
make a home made treat

Wipee Case Tutorial

2002-02-02T12:49:00.000-08:00

Some of you have asked, so here it is- Directions on how to make a No Sew Padded Diaper Wipee Case. (I think the name is more complicated than the craft itself!)

Seriously, you can probably find a better tutorial on someone else's blog with better pictures, but hopefully this will suffice! :)

Wipee Case

Supplies:

Travel Size Wipe Case (I found mine for $.99 @ Target with the travel size shampoos.)

Batting

Fabric

Scissors

Hot glue gun

Decorative trim or ribbon

Cardstock (For making the pattern)

Sharpee Marker

Embellishments

Directions:

Place wipee case on top of cardstock and trace around the top and bottom of the diaper case to make a pattern. Cut about 1/2" bigger than the lines you traced to compensate for the sides and batting.

Place wipee case on top of batting and trace the top part of case and cut out. Some people cut a piece of batting for the bottom too, which makes it extra cushy. I have done both and prefer only having batting on the top, but that’s just me and this is my tutorial!

Place pattern on top of fabric. Some people pin the pattern to the fabric and then cut. I save time and just hold the pattern on top of the fabric as best as I can and then cut. I don’t care about perfect lines since they will be covered by the trim anyway! (I sometimes even just trace the pattern onto the fabric with my marker, but don’t tell any perfectionist!)

Glue batting in place on top of the diaper case.

Glue the fabric to the back first and pull it over the batting then glue it to the front. Like so-

Next, glue both the sides. I glue the sides first and then glue the corners last. Remember, the decorative trim will hide a lot. Be careful not to use too much glue as it will seep over the edge and glue the case shut. (Yes, I have done this!)

Cut off excess fabric that hangs over. Again, no perfect lines needed as the trim will cover it.

Repeat steps for the bottom of the case. It should look like this when all the fabric is on. Ugly right now, but don’t worry, it gets better!

If you want to add a ribbon on the top for an embellishment (which seems to be pretty popular) you would glue that in place now so that the trim covers the edges of your ribbon too. If not go to the next step.

Start gluing the trim in the middle of the back of the case on the top half. Glue all the way around, making sure you don’t cover the opening slit of the case. (Yep, done that one too!)

Now do the same with the bottom edge of the case. Here is a picture- except it looks like I did the bottom first; really its just turned over for convenience while gluing .

No you are ready to embellish! Embellish any way you would like!

TaDa! This is what it should look like all completed.

Just add wipes!

Broccoli Salad

2001-01-01T18:07:00.000-08:00

10 slices bacon
1 head fresh broccoli, cut into bite size pieces
1/4 cup red onion, chopped
1 cup red grapes, halved
3 tablespoons white wine vinegar
2 tablespoons white sugar
1 cup mayonnaise
1 cup sunflower seeds

Place bacon in a large, deep skillet. Cook over medium high heat until evenly brown. Drain, crumble and set aside.
In a medium bowl, combine the broccoli, onion and raisins. In a small bowl, whisk together the vinegar, sugar and mayonnaise. Pour over broccoli mixture, and toss until well mixed. Refrigerate for at least two hours.
Before serving, toss salad with crumbled bacon and sunflower seeds.

French Toast

2001-01-01T18:01:00.000-08:00

We rarely get to have a sit-down breakfast as a family, so therefore the good breakfast items are usually served at dinnertime. Just because its 6:30 pm and not 6:30 am doesn't mean you can enjoy a warm plate of french toast with homemade syrup and a tall glass of milk! Sprinkle some powdered sugar on top or pair it with some strawberries and whip cream and you are that much closer to heaven on earth. But that is just my opinion!

Chicken Chili

2001-01-01T17:51:00.000-08:00

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

4 cans northern (white) beans, undrained

16 oz. jar of salsa

1 pinch of canned small green chilies (I am a wimp!)

2 cans chicken broth

10 oz frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained

8 oz cream cheese

and then...

8 oz grated pepperjack cheese

Tostitos Scoops tortilla chips

Place first 5 ingredients in crock pot on low all day. 1/2 hour before serving, stir in cream cheese.

To serve, place chips in bottom of bowl, ladle chili over the chips and top with the pepper jack cheese.

***Picture shown with sour cream instead of cream cheese, but definitely go for the cream cheese instead! Trust me!